Keralam CM Satheesan calls for unity between Jacobite and Orthodox Churches; pledges Government support

Addressing the 150th anniversary celebrations of the Synod of Mulanthuruthy at Puthencruz on Friday, Satheesan said reconciliation between the two churches could strengthen their religious and charitable activities while contributing to the larger interests of Keralam. The Chief Minister formally inaugurated the gathering, which was attended by Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and Supreme Head of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church.

The Chief Minister's appeal comes against the backdrop of a decades-long dispute between the Jacobite and Orthodox factions over the ownership, administration and control of several churches across Keralam. The disagreement has resulted in prolonged legal battles and tensions among communities sharing a common Christian heritage.

Satheesan urged the two sides to recognise the possibilities that could emerge from cooperation rather than confrontation. He observed that unity would enable the churches to expand their charitable initiatives, establish institutions serving society and strengthen their religious and community activities. He maintained that bringing the two communities together would benefit not only their members but also the State as a whole.

The Chief Minister emphasised that his government was prepared to participate in reconciliation efforts and facilitate an atmosphere conducive to dialogue. His remarks indicated a willingness to pursue a peaceful resolution to the dispute while encouraging both sides to move beyond longstanding disagreements.

The presence of Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II added significance to the occasion. During his visit to Keralam, the spiritual leader had also advocated reconciliation between the two churches, urging both sides to pursue peace and mutual understanding.

The event also witnessed the presentation of the inaugural Sreshta Bava Award to Malayalam cinema superstar Mammootty. Instituted in memory of the late Catholicos Baselios Thomas I, former head of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, the award recognised Mammootty's contributions to cinema, charitable activities and social service.

Addressing the gathering, Mammootty also emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence and transforming hostility into friendship. His remarks complemented the broader message of reconciliation expressed during the anniversary celebrations.

The dispute between the Jacobite and Orthodox churches has remained one of Keralam's most sensitive religious and administrative issues, with successive attempts at reconciliation encountering difficulties over institutional control and competing claims.

Satheesan's latest intervention places renewed emphasis on dialogue and cooperation as possible pathways towards resolving the conflict. Although no specific agreement or reconciliation framework was announced, the Chief Minister's assurance of government support and the Patriarch's appeal for unity have brought fresh attention to efforts aimed at ending the longstanding division.