Mar Thoomkuzhy later served as bishop of Thamarassery and went on to become the Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur.
Published Sep 18, 2025 | 4:08 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 18, 2025 | 4:08 PM
Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy passes away. (Supplied)
Synopsis: Born Chacko Thoomkuzhy on 13 December 1930, at Vilakkumadam in the Pala diocese, he was ordained a priest in Rome on 22 December, 1956, after completing his studies in Canon Law.
Archbishop Emeritus of the Syro Malabar Church’s Thrissur Archdiocese, Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, passed away on Wednesday, 17 September. He was 94.
A highly respected spiritual leader, Mar Thoomkuzhy’s pastoral journey stretched across decades, marked by institution building, social empowerment, and service to migrant Christian communities in the Malabar region.
Born Chacko Thoomkuzhy on 13 December 1930, at Vilakkumadam in the Pala diocese, he was ordained a priest in Rome on 22 December, 1956, after completing his studies in Canon Law.
Returning to Kerala, he served as the chancellor of the Thalassery diocese before being chosen as the first bishop of the newly formed Mananthavady diocese in 1973.
Known for his humility and people-centric leadership, he laid the foundations of the diocese and introduced self-reliance programmes that played a vital role in Wayanad’s development.
He also founded the Congregation of Christudasi Sisters in 1977, which has since grown to serve communities across India and abroad.
Mar Thoomkuzhy later served as bishop of Thamarassery and went on to become the Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur.
His tenure witnessed reforms in priestly formation, and the establishment of Mary Matha Major Seminary in Mulayam remains one of his lasting contributions.
He retired from active ministry in January 2007 and marked the golden jubilee of his episcopal ordination in 2023.
Remembered for his simplicity, compassion, and ability to see the good in others, he leaves behind a legacy of faith and pastoral care.
Funeral rites will be held on Sunday, 21 September.
(Edited by Sumavarsha, with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
