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
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