India recently celebrated the 90th birthday of Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma, a revered father and notable member of the Mar Thoma Church. As the current Marthoma Metropolitan, a rank higher than Bishop in the Mar Thoma Syrian Church, he is both respected and recognized. This particular church holds a close connection with the noble ideals set forth by Saint Thomas, one of the twelve main disciples of Jesus Christ.
A Closer Look at Mar Thoma Church
Known as the Mar Thoma Syrian Church of Malabar, the Mar Thoma Church was established by Saint Thomas, who himself was among the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. The church was constructed in the year AD 52, carrying the name of its founder and apostle.
The Mar Thoma Syrian Church of Malabar holds the distinction of being one of the oldest Christian denominations. More than just an ancient religious institution, it is an autonomous Oriental Indian church. With its headquarters nestled in Thiruvalla, Kerala, India, this church commands a global following of more than 1.6 million believers.
Understanding Oriental Indian Churches
As autonomous religious entities, Oriental Orthodox Churches form a unique group within the broader context of Christianity. They adhere to a specific ideological belief – the recognition of Jesus as one person manifesting in two natures, that of divine and human. This core belief serves as the linchpin of their religious understanding and practice.
Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma: A Brief Profile
Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma is a well-known figure in the Mar Thoma Church. On his 90th birthday, the nation celebrated not just the milestone age of a priest, but the enduring spiritual leadership of a Marthoma Metropolitan. His life’s work and dedication personify the church’s enduring commitment to the legacy of Saint Thomas, the Apostle.
The Global Reach of Mar Thoma Church
The Mar Thoma Church’s influence extends far beyond its native home in Kerala. With more than 1.6 million followers around the world, the church has a truly global footprint. This reach signifies not just the enduring appeal of its teachings, but also the power of its community to connect disparate individuals under a unified banner of faith.
More Than Just a Church
The Mar Thoma Syrian Church of Malabar, while steeped in history and tradition, is far more than a religious institution. It is a worldwide community, bound by shared belief and mutual respect. The autonomous nature of the church allows it to adapt to changing societal contexts without straying from its core principles.
Revisiting Ideological Beliefs
The Oriental Orthodox Churches, including the Mar Thoma Syrian Church, subscribe to the idea that Jesus is one person in two natures. This belief, encompassing both divinity and humanity, sets them apart from other Christian denominations. This unique interpretation underscores their understanding of the divine and its role in human existence.
Sources: PIB
