Oct.01.2004: Jacobite faction severs all ties with Orthodox Church
KOCHI: Leaving a historic stamp on the visit of Patriarch of Antioch Mar Ignatius Zakka I, the Mulanthuruthy Synod today officially declared the total severing of ties with the Orthodox Church, thus completing the division of the Malankara Syrian Church.
The Jacobite Syrian Christian Association meeting held at Mulanthuruthy also decided to recover all properties and churches from the Metropolitans who had left the Patriarch faction to join the Orthodox Church.
The meeting declared that those who had raised allegations against the visit of the Patriarch of Antioch would be treated as having left the Malankara Church.
The Synod urged the Government to convene a meeting of the diocese members of the disputed churches and to hold a plebiscite after which these churches should be handed over to the majority faction. Or else, the Government should make alternative arrangements for the devotees to conduct religious rites, it said.
The meeting also declared that the Metropolitans or Catholicos did not have any claim over the properties of these churches and that they belonged to the members of those churches. The administration of these churches should be conducted according to the Constitution of the Jacobite Church, prepared in 2002.
It also said the Government should take the initiative to remove the priests from some of the churches, which are still loyal to the Metropolitans who left the Syrian Churches. The Aluva Thrikunnathu Church, where Paulose Mor Athanasious was buried, should be opened to the devotees.
Patriarch of Antioch Mar Iganathios Zakka I, who delivered the presidential address, said that the Mulanthuruthy church should be called as the Jerusalem of India in view of the church becoming a holy place with the second synod also being held at that place. The Malankara Syrian Church had proved that it could continue its democracy and tradition.
The Patriarch urged the devotees to continue the tradition of the church and become a role model for other churches. All the Metropolitans and clergy should abide by the Constitution on all church matters, he said.
The resolution of faith and allegiance was delivered by Paulose Corepiscopa Parathuvayalil; Jacobite Syrian Christian Church - 1876 to 2004 - a Review by Joseph Mor Gregoriose Metropolitan, submission of letter of tribute by Youhanon Mor Milithiose Metropolitan and key note address by Baseliose Thomas I Catholicose. Thampu George Thuakalan was conferred the ‘Bar 'eto Mheero’ title for his service to the Malankara Church.
June
2008: 2 Bishops Ordination
2 Auxiliary Bishops for Knanaya Archdiocese
Mor Iwannis Kuriakose and Mor Silvanos Ayoub
Damascus: On Wednesday June 11, 2008, His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, the Patriarch and the Supreme Head of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church,of Antioch celebrated the Holy Divine Liturgy at the St. Peter's & St. Paul's Patriarchal Cathedral of the St. Ephrem the Syrian Monastery at Ma'arrat Seydnaya, Damascus, Syria, and during the Holy Liturgy, His Holiness consecrated Rev. Kuriakose Kolath with the name, " Mor Ivanios Kuriakose " and Rev. Job Thottathil with the name, “Mor Silvanos Ayoub” as Auxiliary Bishops for Knanaya Archdiocese of Malankara.
Their Eminences Mor Sevarios Kuriakose-Archbishop of Knanaya Archdiocese, Mor Gregorios Kuriakose-Metropolitan of Kallisseri diocese, Mor Timotheos Ephrem Aboodi - Former Patriarchal Vicar of Canada, Mor Theophilos George Saliba-Secretary to the Holy Synod, and Mor Clemis Daniel of the Patriarchal Institutions in Atchaneh, Lebanon attended and assisted His Holiness at this blessed consecration ceremony.
It was also attended by a large gathering of Rabans (Monks), Priests, Deacons, Nuns and around 75 Syrian Orthodox Faithful from Malankara.
January
2008: 5th Oriental Orthodox - Catholic Meeting
5th Oriental Orthodox - Catholic
International Joint Commission meeting
Damascus: The fifth theological dialogue meeting of the International Joint Commission of Oriental Orthodox and Catholic Churches started at our Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch in Damascus, Syria. The Churches, which was separated in the 5th Century, formed this dialogue commission in 2003.
The meeting discussed about the Churches' missionary and theological work requirement and is formulating a common declaration. However, the difference of opinion on several aspects, like Papal Primacy etc. will require more in-depth discussions.
In the opening speech, His Holiness the Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I, emphasized the importance of joint meetings of Oriental Orthodox and Catholic Churches, which are very close in faith matters, to improve and expand its bilateral relations, due to the increased religious terrorism, secularism etc. seen today.
The representatives from Catholic Church, Syrian Orthodox Church, Coptic Orthodox Church, Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Armenian Orthodox Church took part in this year's meeting. The Indian Orthodox Church was not attending the meeting, due to the recent developments in Kerala. Two of their metropolitans were said to be ordained a German person, who is under the jurisdiction of Syrian Orthodox Patriarch, as a Bishop, and it was strongly condemned by all Oriental Orthodox and Catholic Church heads. The Joint Commission's Co-Chairman and Pontifical Council President Cardinal Walter Casper informed that the Catholic Church issued instruction to its European Church centers, not to receive the said Bishop in any of its dioceses or institutions.
S
eptember 11-15, 2007: The Holy Synod
The Holy Synod of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch
ܣܘܢܗܕܘܣ ܩܕܝܫܬܐ
Holy Synod – Regular Session
St. Ephrem the Syriac Monastery, Ma’arret Saidnaya
In its previous meeting, the Syriac Holy Synod of Antioch decided that the upcoming meeting of 11-15 September 2007 to be held at St. Ephraim Monastery – Ma’arrat Saidnaya. Their eminences, the Metropolitans, responded to his holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka 1, Iwas’s invitation, and arrived at St. Ephraim Monastery - M’arrat Saydnaya.
His holiness opened the first session of the Holy Synod with prayer then His holiness welcomed the bishops, members of the Holy Synod – specially those attending for the first time who were ordained after the last meeting of the Synod.
His holiness started his spiritual sermon saying, “The Lord Jesus called upon His disciples and they followed Him. He gave them authority over evil spirits and Satan. How magnificent is St. Paul’s call ‘Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine’. This is the path of the chosen ones. Ancient philosophers once said, “ Man, know yourself” and when a man knows himself he will know his limits and realize how to behave wisely in assuming responsibility.
The gift of leadership in priesthood is given to those called upon by God through the Holy Spirit who is the leader and instructor of the church. This applies also to shepherds as commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ.
The holy Bible shows us how the Lord Jesus chose His disciples and set them for service. And the role of the Holy Spirit is clear as expressed in the Book of Acts, saying, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for the work to which I have called them.” Let this feeling of ever serving be within us. And based on this, let no one deny the gift of priesthood and its leadership, and the importance of its authority and rules, which are given by God.
Today, in this day and age, we are taking heed to ourselves and the authority given by the Lord Jesus to His disciples. This we inherited from our Fathers, Saints and Teachers, a responsibility to serve the faithful for which we dedicated our life to be worthy of good shepherds, knowing that our shepherd is the shepherd of all shepherds, our Lord Jesus Christ. We are in dire need to observe ourselves and think first about eternal life. We should live this commitment without which we won’t be worthy of this holy and revered rank. Living in repentance leads us to observe ourselves and the doctrine.
............................
Christianity prides itself in that its Lord Jesus is the Bread of Life and the Drink of life. None of His followers ever starved or thirst.
In this difficult time we are called upon to pray more and more. Prayers will save us from temptations and tribulations.
We ask the Lord to cast away black days and severe hardships and protect the world specially beloved Iraq where Christians are being martyred including bishops and clergy.
We also ask the Lord to lead us not into temptation in order to conquer the enemies of God. He shall be with us and by whom we shall always be victorious...”.................
His holiness drew the attention to the interference of those who broke away from our church in India, in the affaires of our Archdioceses in Europe and America. He asked the Secretary General to read the decision of the Holy Synod held in Damascus 1975 that was headed by his holiness, the late Mor Ignatius Jacob III, in which Mapheriono of India Basselios Augin Ist and all his followers were excommunicated. Based upon this decision, his holiness declared the excommunication of Very Reverend Joseph Tarzi who used to work in the Archdiocese of Western USA (Los Angeles – California) as he deceived a group of parishioners and joined the excommunicated bishops and the enemies of our church in India. His holiness said : We have given him ample time to repent, but instead he went on with his rebellion and had suspicious meetings in Germany and other European countries where he deceived even more laity. Since he didn’t stop his deception, therefore his holiness issued this decree and stripped him from the holy priesthood. Today he is called only “Joseph Tarzi” with no priestly position whatsoever.
THE CHURCH IN GERMANY
According to agenda items, his holiness asked that their eminences discuss and comment on the situation of our church in Germany. Every member expressed his opinion individually and openly about the previous decision of the Holy Synod of 2006 regarding the reorganization of that Archdiocese. There was a unanimous consent upon the decision to divide the Archdiocese into three with some required adjustments and with consultations with clergy and board of directors who were at St. Ephraim Monastery as delegations.....
Then, in fatherly spirit and with the sense of responsibility for the well being of the faithful, and in a historic stand, his holiness decided that the Holy Synod should overturn its decision of October 2006 in which the Archdiocese of Germany was to be divided into three. It shall remain one united Archdiocese, Patriarchal Vicariate. He appointed his eminence Mor Julius Hanna Aydin a Patriarchal Vicar for Germany and head of St. Jacob of Srouj Monastery. His eminence will work towards unity of the church and its parishioners. Their eminences were very pleased and thanked his holiness for his wisdom giving way for reconciliation between churches, boards and everyone concerned.
RETIREMENT
His holiness discussed the subject of retirement according to the constitution of the church, specially item number 57 & 58 which state that a bishop will submit a retirement request at age Seventy. If he doesn’t then he must and should retire at the age Seventy Five. His holiness has the right to accept retirement or extend it.
His eminence Mor Severius Hawa, Archbishop of Baghdad and Basra expressed his reservation, saying that the situation in Iraq is grim and very difficult, and for the well being of his Archdiocese he shouldn’t retire unless his holiness insists.
The same reservation was expressed by his eminence Mor Gregorios Saliba Shamoun, Archbishop of Mosul (Iraq) and for the same reasons. His holiness thanked them both for their services in Iraq and asked them to continue their services.
His holiness asked his eminence Mor Timothaos Ephraim Abboudi to submit his retirement letter for his own good and dignity since he is past Seventy Five years of age. His eminence agreed to submit letter of retirement by the beginning of 2008 when he shall bid farewell to the Archdiocese who will secure a suitable lodge for him to live in.
THE CHURCH IN INDIA
His holiness brought the subject of our church in India and asked his eminence Mor Athanasius Gorgees the Patriarchal Vicar for the affaires of the church of India, to read his detailed report in that matter. His eminence read it in English while his eminence Mor Theophilos George Saliba and Mor Gregorios Saliba Shamoun read it in Arabic....
Their eminences had discussions and suggestions for achieving positive results and clear some obstacles facing our church in India
YEAR 2008 – THE YEAR OF ST. JACOB OF EDESSA
On the One Thousand Three Hundred years anniversary of St. Jacob of Edessa, the great teacher, the Holy Synod decided to have the year 2008 to be the year of St. Jacob of Edessa. The patriarchate and all other Archdioceses will celebrate this occasion. There will also be a field trip to visit the tomb of St. Jacob in Tal-Ada near the castle of Samaan – Aleppo, according to a program set by the church.
THE HOLY CROSS & THE CLERGY UNIFORM
According to the constitution of the church, the Holy Synod affirmed that Very Reverends and Priests should not put on their crosses except when on official occasions and feasts or when they are representing their Archbishop. Very Reverends should not wear their MASNAPHTO during holy Eucharist service or on any other occasion.
ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT
His eminence Mor Thaophylos George Saliba presented the ecumenical movement subjects as follows :
- Heads of Eastern churches with permanent committee meeting : This meeting includes their holiness the patriarchs of the Eastern Orthodox churches, Coptic-Armenian-Syrian. They meet once a year with the permanent committee twice periodically.
- Middle East Council of Churches : Which will hold its ninth general assembly. Its members amount to Ninety Six, that is every family is represented by Twenty Four members. With regards to this council the number will be Sixty Four member that is every family is represented by Sixteen member. This committee will hold its meeting at the end of the upcoming November 2007 in Cyprus.
- Eastern Orthodox / Catholic Dialogue : His eminence explained the status of this dialogue which started in 2003 and is held once a year periodically. The upcoming meeting will be held at the last week of January 2008 hosted by his holiness our patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka 1, Iwas at St. Ephraim Monastery – Ma’arrat Saydnana.
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Eastern Catholic Patriarchal Meeting (participation of the Orthodox patriarchs) : His eminence explained the participation of Orthodox patriarchs once a year where they discuss administrative affaires involving Middle Eastern churches.-
World Council of Churches : His eminence Mor Ostathios Mathew Rohom explained the ecumenical work and the role of our church in this council. His eminence represents our church at the central committee of this council since 2006. He also mentioned that it is the first time that we have in - charge a Syrian Orthodox member who is Miss Rima Barsoum.
CHURCH ENDOWMENTS
According to the constitution of our church, the Holy Synod decided that all churches and endowments must be registered in the name of the church or the Archdiocese worldwide.
BEATIFICATION OF THE LATE PATRIARCH MOR IGNATIUS EPHRAIM BARSOUM 1ST
His eminence Mor Salwanos Boutros Al-nehme presented his Archdiocese request for the beatification of the late patriarch Mor Ignatius Ephraim Barsoum 1ST . The Holy Synod decided that his eminence, working with whom he may wish, prepare a study about this beatification in order to be included on the upcoming Synod’s agenda.
THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BELGIUM & FRANCE
His eminence Mor Severius Hazayel Sawmeh, Patriarchal Vicar of Belgium and France asked that Luxembourg be added to his Archdiocese as per his previous request to the Synod who decided to add Luxembourg to the Archdiocese of Belgium and France.
CONCLUSION SESSION
After celebrating the occasion of the Twenty Seventh anniversary of his holiness enthronement on the Holy See of Antioch, and the holy Eucharist and prayers specially on this sacred day of the church, the feast of the discovery of the cross, the Holy Synod celebrated with his holiness this holy and happy feast.
In the afternoon of the same day, the Holy Synod held its conclusion session. After discussions, review and reading of all minutes and decisions taken, his holiness said :
We thank God who made us worthy to meet in this holy monastery and discuss the church matters at this difficult and hard time. We pray together for the sake of the whole world specially for Iraq, Lebanon and Palestine, and ask our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of peace, to have His peace and tranquility reign over the whole world.
His holiness thanked their eminences for their cooperation and great efforts in solving many problems. He hoped that this cooperation continue among the Archdioceses so that the ship, our church, would sail safely in the turbulent sea of the world.
His holiness continued: “We are sure and have faith that the Lord Jesus is within our church and shall never abandon it.” His holiness asked for the well being of the faithful so that they may obtain victory over the devil and God may not lead them into temptations.
His holiness concluded the Holy Synod meetings with the Lord’s Prayer granting his apostolic blessings to the church worldwide.
These are some decisions of the Holy Synod which was held between 11-15 September 2007 at St. Ephraim Monastery – Ma’arrat Saidnaya.
A
pril 15, 2007: New Archbishop for Netherlands
His Holiness the Patriarch consecrates very Rev. Fr. Augin Aydin as Archbishop for Netherlands
On Sunday April 15th 2007, His Holiness the Patriarch, Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of St. Aphrem in Ma`arat Saidnaya, Damascus, Syria, assisted by some Archbishops and during the Divine Liturgy His Holiness consecrated Very Rev. Raban Augin (Eugene) Aydin as Archbishop for the Archdiocese (Patriarchal Vicariate) of Netherlands, assumed the fatherly name "Mor Polycarpus".
His Eminence Mor Polycarpos Aydin's installation will be on Sunday April 29, 2007
, at Mor Ephrem Monastery in Glane/Losser.
We wish the new consecrated Archbishop success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
February 18, 2007: New two Archbishops for Germany
His Holiness the Patriarch consecrates very Rev. Fr. Hanna Aydin and very Rev. Fr. Daniel M. Kourieh as Archbishops
Based upon the decision of the Holy Synod held on October 10-13, 2006, His holiness nominated very Rev. Raban Hanna Aydin to become Archbishop, patriarchal vicar, for the Mid-Germany Archdiocese, and very Rev. Raban Daniel Malak Kourieh to become Archbishop, patriarchal vicar, for established Archdiocese of the Southern Germany.
On Sunday February 18th 2007, His Holiness the Patriarch, Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of St. Aphrem in Ma`arat Saidnaya, Damascus, Syria, assisted by some Archbishops and during the Divine Liturgy His Holiness consecrated Very Rev. Raban Hanna Aydin as Archbishop, assumed the fatherly name "Mor Julius", and very Rev. Raban Daniel M. Kourieh as archbishop, and given the fatherly name "Mor Clemis".
We wish the new consecrated Archbishops success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
February 08, 2007: 4th Theological Dialogue Joint Commission Meeting
International Joint Commission Meeting for the Theological Dialogue between Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches
The Fourth Meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue Between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches Rome, Italy, January 28 to February 3, 2007
The International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches was initiated at the preparatory meeting in 2003. The fourth meeting of this official commission took place in Rome, at the new offices of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, from January 28 to February 3, 2007. Below is the report of the last meeting.
The fourth meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches took place in Rome from January 28 to February 3, 2007, under the co-chairmanship of His Eminence Cardinal Walter Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.
The meeting was originally scheduled to take place in Lebanon at the kind invitation of His Beatitude Patriarch Nasrallah Pierre Sfeir of the Maronite Church. Regrettably, the political situation in that country did not allow the members to meet there at this time. Instead, the meeting was held in Rome at the new offices of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. The members were hosted at the Domus Romana Sacerdotalis. Joining the delegates from the Catholic Church were representatives of the following Oriental Orthodox Churches: Coptic Orthodox Church, Syrian Orthodox Church, Armenian Apostolic Church (Catholicosate of All Armenians), Armenian Apostolic Church (Holy See of Cilicia), Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and Eritrean Orthodox Church.
The Oriental Orthodox delegation met separately on January 29 and 30 in order to discuss themes in ecclesiology. During the course of these meetings, they produced a draft report that was later given to the Catholic members. The Catholic delegation met separately on January 30. The full International Joint Commission met on three consecutive days, on January 31, February 1 and 2. Each day began with a brief prayer service using material that had been produced for this year’s Prayer for Christian Unity.
The members of the international commission were received in audience by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on February 1.
Addressing the group, Pope Benedict said:...Your meeting concerning the constitution and mission of the Church is of great importance for our common journey towards the restoration of full communion. The Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches share an ecclesial patrimony stemming from apostolic times and the first centuries of Christianity. This ...heritage of experience... should shape our future ... guiding our common path towards the re-establishment of full communion ... (cf. Ut Unum Sint, 56). The Pope also expressed his concern for the situation of Christians in the Middle East, calling upon them to be...courageous and steadfast in the power of the Spirit of Christ.
Following the plan for the dialogue that was adopted at the Preparatory Meeting in 2003, the following papers were presented during the course of the meeting: ・Mission, Witness, Service and the Problem of Proselytism,・ by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian; ・The Mission of the Church,・ by Bishop Paul-Werner Scheele; ・The Salvation of Non-Believers in the Patristic Period,・ by Rev. Mark Sheridan, OSB; ・The Church and the Salvation of Non-Christians in the Second Vatican Council and Afterwards,・ by Msgr. Johan Bonny; ・The Salvation of Non-Believers,・ by Metropolitan Bishoy, ・Marriage Between Catholics and Muslims: A Catholic Perspective,・ by Archbishop Peter Marayati, and ・Mixed Marriages With Non-Christians,・ by Metropolitan Bishoy.
Because of technical difficulties, the drafting committee that had been named at the third meeting of the dialogue in Etchmiadzin, Armenia, was not able to meet. Its membership was modified, and is now composed of Catholic members Fr. Frans Bouwen, Fr. Mark Sheridan, Msgr. Johan Bonny, and Prof. Dietmar Winkler, and Oriental Orthodox members Metropolitan Bishoy, Metropolitan Theophilus George Saliba, Archbishop Mesrob Krikorian, and Bishop Nareg Alemezian. The drafting committee will meet in Rome on May 29 and 30, 2007.
The fifth meeting of the International Commission will take place at Saint Ephrem Syrian Orthodox Monastery in Ma'arrat Saydnaya near Damascus, Syria, at the invitation of His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch. The Oriental Orthodox delegation will plan to arrive on January 27, and the Catholics on January 28, 2008. The two delegations will meet separately, and have full joint sessions on January 30, 31, and February 1, with departure on February 2. At this meeting the text prepared by the drafting committee will be considered, and one paper from each side will be presented on the goal of the ecumenical dialogue.
February 07, 2007: Representatives of His Holiness The Patriarch in India
To inaugurate the 75th Anniversary of the late Patriarch His Holiness Mor Ignatius Elias III, the Patriarchal Representatives
in India
In order to participate in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Late His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch Mor Ignatius Elias III, who was entered the eternal rest in 1932, and entombed in Manjanikkara, near Pathanamthitta, representatives of the reigning Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas arrived in Kerala on Wednesday 7, 2007.
The Patriarchal delegation Baghdad Archbishop Mor Severius Hawa, was accompanied by the Armenian Archbishop Mor Awak Azdovrin, Eastern U.S. Archbishop Mor Ephrem Karim, and United Kingdom Archbishop Mor Athanatius Toma Dakkama.
At Nedumbassery Airport, the delegation was received by Syrian Orthodox Archbishop Mor Elias Athanasius, Rev. Fr. Saji Thomas, Jose Salib and Binu John.
SOCM NEWS BUREAU - KOCHI
February 02, 2007: New Bishop for Knanaya Diocese in India
His Holiness the Patriarch consecrates Rev. Fr. Kuriakose as Auxiliary Bishop for Knanaya Archdiocese
The Knanaya Auxilliary Bishop designate Ramban Kuriakose Chaluparampil was being ordained as Bishop Kuriakose Mor Gregorios on Friday, 2nd February 2007 at St. Ephrem Theological Seminary Church at Ma'arat Saidnaya, Damascus, Syria. His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, the Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, ordained very Rev. Raban Kuriakose as Auxiliary Bishop and given the Fatherly name "Mor Gregorios". His Holiness was assisted by Knanaya Archbishop Mor Severus Kuriakose, Malankara Holy Episcopal Synod Secretary Mor Gregorios Joseph, Patriarchal Secretary Mor Athanatius Geevargis, Patriarchal Assistants Mor Athanasios Elia Bahi and Mor Philexinos Mattias Nayis.
Hundreds of Priests and faithful from Knanaya Diocese also came to Damascus to participate in the ordination ceremony. His Eminence Mor Gregorios Kuriakose will return to Kerala on Saturday, 10th February and will celebrate Holy Divine Liturgy at Kottayam Valiya Palli on Sunday, 11th February. On behalf of the Kananaya Diocese, a public reception is being arranged at Chingavanam on Sunday (11/2/07) fternoon.
We wish the new consecrated Archbishop success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
Source: SOCM News Bureau
January 10, 2007: His Holiness The Patriarch in India
His Holiness the Patriarch inaugurates the 75th Anniversary of the late Patriarch His Holiness Mor Ignatius Elias III
His Holiness Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, the Patriarch of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch, will be inaugurating the Ecumenical Meet, held at the Maramon Convention.
His Holiness is arriving in India to attend the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the heavenly abode of late Patriarch St. Ignatius Elias III, who is entombed at Manjanikkara, Pathanamthitta district.
In a press conference at Kochi, the Jacobite Church Episcopal Synod Secretary His Eminence Mor Gregorius Joseph Metropolitan announced that The Patriarch will be arriving India on February 10, and will be in Kerala for minimum five days.
His Holiness will be chairing the Platinum Jubilee celebration on 12th February at 6 p.m. at Manjanikkara, as well as the Annual Pilgrim meet.
The Holy Chrism (Moroon Qadeesho) of the newly constructed St. Athanasius Cathedral at Puthencruz will also be conducted by His Holiness The Patriarch.
SOCM NEWS BUREAU - KOCHI
January 07, 2007: New Archbishop as 2nd Patriarchal Assistant, Damascus
New 2nd Patriarchal Assistant Archbishop, Damascus-Syria
Based upon the decision of the Holy Synod held at St. Ephrem Seminary October 9-13, 2006, His holiness nominated very Rev. Raban Mattias Nayis to become Archbishop, 2nd patriarchal assistant to reside in St. Ephraim Seminary–Ma’arrat Saidnaya, and administer St. Ephraim Theological College in Ma’arrat Saidnaya and supervise the endowments and patriarchal charitable institutions in Atchaneh – Lebanon and be a member of the Holy Synod. and for the affairs.
On Sunday January 7th 2007, His Holiness Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Sts. Peter and Paul's seminary cathedral and during the Divine Liturgy consecrated Very Rev. Raban Mattias as Archbishop, 2nd Patriarchal Assistant, giving him the fatherly name "Mor Philexinos".
We wish the new consecrated Archbishop success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
December 10, 2006: New Archbishop for Adıyaman, Turkey
New Archbishop for a New Archdiocese of Adıyaman, Turkey
Based upon the decision of the Holy Synod, His holiness nominated very Rev. Raban Malki Ürek to become Archbishop, patriarchal vicar, for this new-old Archdiocese of Adıyaman, Turkey.
On Sunday December 10th 2006, His Holiness Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas arrived the ancient monastery of St. Hananya (Deyr ul-Zafaran) near Mardin, Turkey.
His Eminence Mor Gregorius Saliba Shamoun (Archbishop of Mosul), celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Mor Hananyo altar and during the Divine Liturgy His Holiness consecrated Very Rev. Raban Malki Ürek as Archbishop, Patriarchal Vicar for the Archdiocese of Adıyaman. Raban Malki assumed the fatherly name "Mor Gregorios" by His Holiness the Patriarch.
We wish the new consecrated Archbishop success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
December 03, 2006: New Archbishop for United Kingdom
New Archbishop for a New Archdiocese of United Kingdom
Based upon the importance of the United Kingdom in the world and also the importance of the Anglican Church with which we have historic relations, and that it is necessary to have an Episcopal representative since our people are increasing in numbers and approaching 250 known families who mostly emigrated from Iraq. The previous meeting of the Holy Synod held on October 10-13, 2006, decided with unanimous consent to establish the new Archdiocese patriarchal vicariate, and nominated very Rev. Raban Touma Dokma to become the Archbishop, patriarchal vicar for said Archdiocese and was agreed upon unanimously.
On Sunday December 3rd, 2006, His Holiness the Patriarch, Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of St. Aphrem in Ma`arat Saidnaya, Damascus, Syria, assisted by His Eminence Mor Severius Hawa of Baghdad, and Mor Oustatheos Matta Roham of Al-Jazeerah and Euphrates. During the Divine Liturgy His Holiness with the assistance of nine archbishops, consecrated Very Rev. Raban Touma Dokma as Archbishop Patriarchal Vicar for the new established Patriarchal vicariate of United Kingdom, given the fatherly name "Mor Athanasius".
We wish the new consecrated Archbishop success and fruitful spiritual life in the Holy Church of Antioch.
November 22, 2006: Heads of the Oriental Orthodox Churches meet in Egypt
Heads of the Oriental Orthodox Churches meet in Egypt
H.H. Pope Shenouda III, Head of the Coptic Orthodox Church, H. H. Patriarch Zakka Iwas, Head of the Syriac Orthodox Church held their annual meeting from November 22-24, 2006, at the St. Mark Center, Nasr City, Cairo. H.H. Catholicos Aram I, Head of the Armenian Orthodox Church canceled his scheduled trip to Egypt for the meeting due to the latest events in Lebanon. However, the two spiritual leaders remained in contact with H.H. Aram I throughout the meeting, exchanging views on a variety of issues.
At the end of the meeting, the three Heads of Churches condemned the ordination of an individual as bishop by schismatic and non-canonical bishops who claim to be Orthodox and emphasized the necessity of strengthening cooperation between primates and communities of the three Oriental Orthodox churches.
October 12, 2006: Rev. Fr. Poulos Iskandar Behnam martyred in Iraq
Mosul / Iraq
On Monday October 9, 2006, while searching for car parts at local mechanic shops. The Iraqi Muslim kidnappers abducted Rev. Fr. Paulos Iskandar Behnam, one of our Syriac Orthodox priests in the Archdiocese of Mosul.
Kidnappers demand that the priest's church must publicly repudiate Pope Benedict XVI's remarks about Islam in his lecture in Germany last month. The St. Ephrem parish of the Syriac Orthodox Church placed 30 large signboards on walls around the city, distancing itself from the pontiff's comments. But added another stipulation: kidnappers telephoned the priest's oldest son soon afterwards, demanding $30,000 then immediately $40,000 ransom from the family. After negotiations in several more calls, the kidnappers gradually escalated their demands to $350,000. While negotiations were taking place the family managed to raise and pay the ransom, but then the telephone calls stopped and then kidnappers advised the church on Wednesday October 11, 2006, to collect the body of the Reverend Father after being tortured and slain for not embracing Islam. Rev. Fr. Iskander's dismembered body was discovered on night of October 11 at about 7 p.m. in the remote Tahrir City district, two kilometers (1.2 miles) from the center of Mosul. His arms and legs had been severed and arranged around his head, which rested on his chest. His remains were brought to a local hospital, which then notified our church in Mosul.
News of the priest's murder reached Damascus as His Holiness the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka Iwas was meeting with Metropolitans of the Holy Synod of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch. The Archbishop of Mosul Mor Gregorios Saliba Shamoun returned immediately from Damascus to Mosul in time to conduct the funeral service amid huge gathering of parishioners who were silently shocked by this tragedy. His holiness, our esteemed Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I, Iwas who was emotionally touched by this unspeakable crime along with members of the Holy Synod, expressed his condolences to his eminence Mor Gregorios Saliba Shamoun and his Archdiocese, and prayed that God would grant comfort and endurance to the Syriac Orthodox Church, his eminence, widow and children of the slain priest, and all parishioners of the Archdiocese. Then they prayed for the soul of the martyr during their Holy Synod session.
The Holy Synod of the Syrian Orthodox Church denounced the horrific crime, whose victim was Rev. Fr. Poulos Iskandar Behnam, one of our priests in Mosul on the hands of fanatic terrorists, an act that is against all kinds of spiritual, moral, or humanitarian principles. At the conclusion of the session, the Holy Synod issued this declaration:
“During the sessions of the Holy Synod of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch held in Damascus under the patronage of His Holiness Patriarch Moran Mor Zakka I, Iwas, and the participation of the metropolitans of the Syriac Orthodox Church worldwide, we were advised by heads of the Christian denominations in Iraq of the painful and most horrible news of the martyrdom of Reverend Father Paulos Iskandar Behnam, one of our priests in Mosul who was slain by extremist terrorists, an act that goes against all spiritual, ethical and humane values.
While our Holy Synod expresses the utmost sorrow that this unspeakable shameful crime took place, which touches every noble citizens of beloved Iraq, the Synod denounces this horrible deed and calls upon the world (international) conscience represented by the decision makers to put an end to the dreadful sufferings of the Iraqi people. We invite upon all those in position of responsibility (authority), influence and leadership to continue their diligent efforts in spreading peace and security, so that the citizens (of Iraq) may resume their normal life in their historic homeland within a framework of national unity.
May God protect Iraq and its people from all kinds of adversities and afflictions, and may He fill their upcoming days with peace, love, fraternity, and prosperity”
His Eminence announced during the service that he had been commissioned by His Holiness the Patriarch to bestow on the martyred priest an honorary title of "archpriest," a cleric just below the rank of bishop. Syriac Orthodox clergymen and faithful present at Fr. Iskander’s funeral service were at least 500 members of the Mosul Christian community attended, many of them weeping profusely. "Many more wanted to come to the funeral," one of the attendees said, "but they were afraid. We are in very bad circumstances now."
Rev. Fr. Paulos Iskander is survived by his wife, Azhar, sons Fadi and Yohanna, a married daughter, Fadiyeh, and a daughter, Mariam, 13. "It is a very sad and difficult day for us," Archbishop Saliba Shamoun said "Father Paulos was very active. And he loved very much his mission in the church."
Iraq's highest Sunni religious authority, the Ulema Council, called the priest's death "a cowardly murder". In a press release, they said that the Orthodox priest was well known for "his nationalist views and opposition to the occupation".
"The Ulema Council," the statement said, "condemns this cowardly killing and will not forget those who are behind this crime, committed by people who want to deprive the country of every religious and national symbol that can hold Iraq together by trying to start a religious war between sons of the same nation".
The Archdiocese of Western USA offers her heart felt condolences to His Holiness our beloved patriarch Moran Mor Zakka I, Iwas, and through him to the most respected members of the Holy Synod, and holds prayer services for the soul of our martyr very Rev. Fr. Poulos Iskandar Behnam.
May God rest his soul in eternal peace with those who fulfilled His will , Amen
الموصل / العراق في يوم الاثنين المصادف التاسع من تشرين الأول (اكتوبر) خطف ارهابيون مجهولو الهوية الأب بولس اسكندر بهنام (مواليد 1952) أحد كهنتنا السريان الأرثوذكس في أبرشية الموصل، وطلبوا منه استنكار أقوال البابا التي صرح فيها ضد الاسلام. ثم طلبوا مبلغ من المال تصاعديا حتى وصلوا الى 350.000 دولارا امريكيا، وبينما كان التفاوض جاريا أخبروا يوم الخميس 12 تشرين الأول الكنيسة بأن يأخذوا جثة الأب بعد أن عذبوه ثم ذبحوه لعدم قبوله الاسلام .
على أثر استشهاد الأب بولس اسكندر بهنام غادر الحبر الجليل مار غريغوريوس صليبا شمعون دير مار أفرام السرياني في معرة صيدنايا ـ سوريا، وترأس صلاة تجنيزه في الموصل بحضور حشد كبير من المشيعين الذين خيّم الصمت والقلق عليهم نظراً للمأساة التي حلّت عليهم باستشهاد احد الكهنة العاملين في حقل الخدمة . وقد قدّم قداسة الحبر الأعظم مار أغناطيوس زكا الأول عيواص الذي تأثر كثيراً بهذا الحدث الجليل وأعضاء المجمع المقدس التعازي للحبر الجليل مار غريغوريوس صليبا شمعون ولأبرشيته العزيزة، وتمنوا أن يمنح الله الكنيسة السريانية المقدسة ونيافته وأرملة الراحل العزيز الأب بولس وأولاده وكل أبناء الأبرشية الصبر والسلوان، وأقاموا الصلاة لراحة نفسه أثناء جلسات المجمع المقدس.
كما ودان المجمع الأنطاكي المقدس للسريان الأرثوذكس الجريمة النكراء التي راح ضحيتها الأب بولس اسكندر بهنام أحد كهنتنا في الموصل على يد إرهابيين متطرفين والتي تتنافى مع القيم الروحية والأخلاقية والانسانية . وفي نهاية جلساته أصدر البيان التالي :أأثناء انعقاد مجمعنا الأنطاكي السرياني الأرثوذكسي المقدس في دمشق برئاسة قداسة البطريرك مار اغناطيوس زكا الأول عيواص واشتراك مطارنة الكنيسة السريانية الأرثوذكسية في العالم، بلغنا بواسطة رؤساء الطوائف المسيحية في العراق الخبر المؤلم والمؤسف جداً، استشهاد الأب الفاضل بولس اسكندر بهنام، أحد قساوسة الموصل على يد ارهابيين متطرفين لا صلة لهم بالإنسا
