The Malankara Orthodox Church in Kerala has consecrated its new
Catholicos (autonomous head) in a special ceremony attended by thousands
of people.
Catholicos Poulose Mar Milithios, now known as Baselios Marthoma
Poulose I, was consecrated after his predecessor Baselios Marthoma
Didymus I decided to step down on his 90th birthday on Oct. 29.
Former Catholicos led the five-hour consecration ceremony at Parumala church in Kerala, southern India, on Nov. 1.
“The consecration ceremony was conducted under the rich traditions of
the church. We are happy the church is getting a new head who dedicated
his life in prayers,” said Orthodox
seminary principal Father K. M.
George.
Father George believes the new Catholicos is a great shepherd. “He prioritizes prayers and spirituality,” the priest added.
Starting with a procession, the major part of the consecration
ceremony was held at the Pontifical Mass.
During the consecration, the
former Catholicos handed over the throne and all its designations to his
successor.
The 64-year-old Catholicos, who will now select his successor, was
designated by the holy Episcopal synod to the post on October 12, 2006.
The Orthodox Church traces its origins to Saint Thomas the Apostle
who evangelized India.
The Malankara Orthodox Church is the second
Orthodox Church in India, with one million faithful worldwide.
The
church is most influential in Kerala.
SIC: CTH/INDIA