The profound care and strength offered by His Holiness Pope Francis to the Syro-Malabar Church during his twelve-year papacy cannot be adequately expressed in words.
When I had my first audience with the Holy Father after assuming office as the Major Archbishop on May 13, 2024, he told me with great clarity and conviction that although the Syro-Malabar Church currently does not hold pastoral jurisdiction in the Gulf regions, he recognizes our merit and is therefore granting us that right. He further explained that the canonical formalities regarding this matter would be communicated through the respective Dicastery.
In line with the Holy Father’s directive, discussions were held under the leadership of Cardinal Parolin between representatives of the Syro-Malabar Church and officials from the relevant Dicastery. A decision has now been reached, and what remains is only the implementation of that decision.
One cannot forget the historic letter written by Pope Francis to the Bishops of India on October 9, 2017. It was through this letter that he granted the Syro-Malabar Church All India Jurisdiction and established the Eparchy of Shamshabad. In this letter, the Pope emphasizes how the three individual churches in India—distinct in identity—should work together harmoniously and in fraternal spirit for the evangelization of the nation. It is a document that teaches us the beauty of ecclesial communion and underscores the vital importance of expressing our ecclesial identity within the Indian context.
I recall with gratitude how, during various difficult moments in the life of our Church—especially in matters concerning liturgy—the Pope communicated with us not only through letters but even via video messages. What stands out in Pope Francis’ leadership is his unique approach: he came to know us personally and guided us with heartfelt love. Even in our most trying times, he never abandoned us but walked closely by our side.
It was during the papacy of Pope Francis that the ancient and prominent Basilica of Santa Anastasia, located in the heart of Rome, was granted to the Syro-Malabar Church for our pastoral use. This was a remarkable gesture that visibly expressed his deep affection for our Church. Today, the Holy Qurbana in the Syro-Malabar rite is celebrated daily in this Basilica. For our faithful scattered across Rome, this church has become a great spiritual blessing, offering a sacred space to celebrate our feasts and observe our traditions. No words can adequately convey the depth of our gratitude to Pope Francis for this generous gift.
Another visible sign of the Pope’s love and trust in our Church was his elevation of Msgr. George Jacob Koovakkad to the rank of Cardinal and his appointment as the head of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. Such decisions reflect the Holy Father’s confidence in and concern for the Syro-Malabar Church.
With deep gratitude for the love, care, and strength that Pope Francis has bestowed upon our Church, I now offer my heartfelt homage before the memory of this holy shepherd. I am confident that from his place in heaven, the Holy Father will continue to intercede for our Church and strengthen us through his prayers. May the intercession of the Holy Father remain with us always.
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
