Mor Julius Geevarghese Konat +1884

Mor Julius Geevarghese Konat +1884

March 21st is the anniversary of the demise of HG Mor Julius Geevarghese Konat +1884. Mor Julius Geevarghese was the first Metropolitan of Thumpamon diocese. Geevarghese was born to Mathen & Kunjilachar of the famous Konat family in 1829. He studied theology under the tutelage of his relatives Malankara Malpans Konat Abraham I & Yuhannon. After ordination to Qashisho, he taught Seminary students at Pampakuda, St. Gregorios Geevarghese Chathuruthil of Parumala was one of his students. Qashisho Geevarghese immersed himself in the translation of Syriac literature, & teaching. He helped Malankara Metropolitan Mor Dionysius V (Pulikkottil Joseph II) in correspondence with the Patriarchate in Syriac & also provides necessary support for litigation purposes by being an expert in Canon Law. Fr. Geevarghese established a Syriac printing press as well. In 1875 he was elevated to the rank of Raban by the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV of blessed memory. Seeing his keen interest in literary works, the Holy Father sent Raban to train in a printing press run by European missionaries in Kochi. In 1876, he was consecrated Metropolitan with the title Julius by the Patriarch of Antioch. Mor Athanasius Paulose Kadavil I was also consecrated with him. Mor Julius was given the charge of the newly established Thumpamon diocese, & he diligently took care, however scholarly work continued to be his passion. In 1879 he started 'Kerala Deepam Press' at Pampakuda Church, where he published Holy Qurbono Thakso, among others. Sadly, he was not able to continue as diocesan Metropolitan for much longer. On 21st March 1884, Mor Julius Geevarghese Konat reposed in the Lord due to illness. He was entombed in the Konat family Chapel at St. John's Ephesus Church Pampakuda. His nephew Konat Mathen Malpan purchased new equipment to carry on the work of the press, & renamed it Mor Julius press in his honor. Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church' Oh Mor Julius Geevarghese! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen. http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/KonattMorJulius.htm