Latest Updates on Athanasius

Yohan I Metropolitan

Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan reposed in the Lord on Wednesday evening. He passed away due to a sudden cardiac arrest at a hospital in Dallas, Texas, where he had been receiving treatment since his accident. Here are the latest updates and information regarding the Metropolitan.

Important Updates:

May 20, 2024 – The mortal remains of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I would be kept for public viewing at the Believers Convention Center located at the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala.

May 21, 2024 – The funeral rites of the reposed Metropolitan would be held at the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral.

To know more about Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan’s life and his legacy, click here.

To listen to the messages from Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan, click here:  Malayalam  |  English

You Can Also Follow Us On Social Media to Know More.

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Schedule of Final Rites of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan

Live Streaming Links

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BelieversEasternChurch

Youtube

📍Stream 1 – (May 19: 12pm onwards) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2TF693Bgr8

📍Stream 2 – (May 20: 9am onwards) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMzIUNRa7R0

📍Stream 3 – (May 20: 8pm onwards) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEvRfDv2BNM

📍Stream 4 – (May 21: 7am onwards) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5OUG75AJr4

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Facebook Live Stream May 20, 2024

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Facebook Live Stream May 19, 2024

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Youtube Live Stream

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May 19, 2024

The Mortal Remains of the Reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I Arrive at Cochin

Update: The mortal remains of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I arrived early this morning at around 3:30 am in the Cochin International Airport in Nedumbassery. A large delegation of bishops, clergy and lay faithful, under the leadership of HG Joshua Mor Barnabas (Resident Bishop of the St. Thomas Community), HG Mathews Mor Silvanus of Trivandrum, HG Titus Mor Osthathios of Kathmandu (Nepal), HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America and Eurupe, Secretary General Fr. Dr Daniel Johnson and Church Spokesman & PRO Fr. Sijo Pandapallil were there waiting to receive the remains which were then transferred with great care and reverence to a hearse.

The mortal remains of Metropolitan Yohan will leave Cochin with a 50-car escort at 12 pm and will make its journey to the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church at the Metropolitan’s village of Niranam where the second service of the funeral rites will be administered at 4 pm.

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Memorial Services Held in Diocese of Khagrachari

Bangladesh: Many of our Clergy from all over the parishes of the Diocese of Khagrachari observed a memorial service this morning under the guidance of HG Justin Mor Thomas Episcopa, in honor of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. They offered prayers for the departed Metropolitan’s soul and asked for the Holy Trinity to comfort his bereaved family members.

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Sri. Sathyan Mokeri, Assistant Secretary of the Kerala State Committee of the Communist Party of India, Offers Condolences

Sri. Sathyan Mokeri, Assistant Secretary of the Kerala State Committee of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Former Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly visited the Church’s global headquarters to pay tribute to the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and to express his condolences to the bereaved members of the Church.

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St. Peters’s Believers Eastern Church in Nagpur Holds Memorial Service

The clergy, faithful and seminary students of the Diocese of Nagpur gathered at the St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church in Kamaleshwar, Nagpur, to offer prayers for the soul of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan of blessed memory. Rev. Fr. Sanjay Kotchade and other prominent leaders from the parishes nearby paid tribute to the memory of the beloved Metropolitan by recounting the many initiatives and projects that he had launched for the establishment of their diocese over the past twenty years.

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Condolence Message from Fr. Jean Pierre Bakurirehe, Prior of Gihindamuyaga Monastery, Rwanda

Condolence message from Fr. Jean Pierre Bakurirehe, the Prior of the Gihindamuyaga Monastery (Benedictine Order) in Rwanda, to the members of the Believers Eastern Church, on the passing of the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Memorial Services Held Across Parishes in Archdiocese of Kathmandu

Nepal: The clergy and faithful from all over the parishes of the Archdiocese of Kathmandu observed memorial services in honor of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. They paid tribute to him by lighting candles and presenting flowers in front of his portrait which was kept in front of the sanctuary altars. They also offered prayers for his soul, asking the Lord Almighty to grant His servant rest among the saints in his presence.

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Condolence Message from Most Reverend Dr. Laurent Mbanda, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda

A comforting condolence message from the Most Reverend Dr. Laurent Mbanda, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda & Chairman of GAFCON, on behalf of his Church and the Rwanda Interfaith Council, to all the members of the Believers Eastern Church, on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. We are so grateful to His Eminence for remembering our beloved Metropolitan and recognizing his love for the continent of Africa and her people.

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Veteran Film Actor Mohan Ayroor Pays Respects to Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of Blessed Memory

Veteran Film and TV actor Mohan Ayroor visited the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla yesterday and paid his respects to Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. He expressed his condolences to the bishops, clergy and faithful who were gathered at the Synod Secretariat chapel to observe memorial services for the late Metropolitan Yohan.

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May 18, 2024

Preparations for Funeral Rites Continue at the Synod Secretariat

The Conference of Bishops, Diocesan Vicars and Province Mission Vicars have been continuing in prayer and preparations at the St. Thomas Cathedral in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, for the funeral rites and interment of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. We request your earnest prayers for our Bishops and leaders as they work to make these arrangements so that we will be able, together as the Church, to give our beloved spiritual father a befitting and memorable farewell.

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Hon. Thomas Chazhikadan, MP from Kottayam Constituency, Offers Condolences

The Hon. Thomas Chazhikadan, Member of Parliament from Kottayam Constituency visited our Church headquarters today and paid his respects to the memory of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. He also spent time with the resident Bishop of the St. Thomas Community, HG Joshua Mor Barnabas and Rev. Fr. Sijo Pandapallil, the Church Spokesperson & PRO and Manager of the Believers Church Medical College Hospital, discussing the various arrangements for the upcoming funeral rites of the late Metropolitan Yohan.

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Very Rev. Nathaniel Ramban, Mar Kuriakose Ashram Superior, Expresses Condolences

It was a great blessing to have the Very Rev. Nathaniel Ramban, Superior of the Mar Kuriakose Ashram, Mylapra, at the memorial services held in honor of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I in the Church headquarters in Thiruvalla today. The Ramban expressed his condolences to the clergy and faithful gathered for the service and then offered prayers with incense for the soul of Metropolitan Yohan. He also took the time to meet the Metropolitan locum tenens, HG Samuel Mor Theophilus and HG Mathews Mor Silvanus of Trivandrum and assured them of his continued prayers for them and our church.

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Condolence Message from Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa, of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church

Condolence message from Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa of the Mumbai Diocese and UK, Europe and Africa Diocese of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Believers English School Teachers and Students Pay Tribute to Athanasius Yohan I

Nepal: The teachers, staff and students of the Believers English School in Siraha (managed by the Diocese of Kathmandu) came together yesterday to pay tribute to the memory of their patron and spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. They also offered prayers for his soul to find rest in the presence of the Lord Almighty.

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Condolence Message from Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, the Minister of State for External Affairs

Saddened to learn about the untimely demise of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan, the Metropolitan of Believers Eastern Church.

Just a few weeks ago, had the opportunity to meet him and receive his blessings during my visit to Kerala. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the… pic.twitter.com/cuEm0hTkyU

— Meenakashi Lekhi (मोदी का परिवार) (@M_Lekhi) May 8, 2024

Condolences from Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, the Minister of State for External Affairs, on the repose of our Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Condolence Message from Hon. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology

Deeply saddened to learn about the tragic accident and passing away of the Metropolitan of Believers Eastern Church, Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan today in the US.

My deepest condolences and Prayers for his family and the Believers Church family 🙏🏻🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/5KOXJlH03v

— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳(Modiyude Kutumbam) (@Rajeev_GoI) May 8, 2024

Condolence message from the Hon. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, on the repose of our Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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The Council of Bishops, the Diocesan and Mission Province Vicars Meet to Discuss Funeral Rites

Thiruvalla: The Council of Bishops, the Diocesan Vicars and Mission Province Vicars met at the St. Thomas Cathedral in the Church’s global headquarters in the St. Thomas Community in Kuttapuzha this morning, under the leadership of the Metropolitan locum tenens, HG Samuel Mor Theophilus Episcopa, to discuss the order of services related to the funeral rites of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

The meetings were also addressed by the Resident Bishop of the St. Thomas Community, HG Joshua Mor Barnabas Episcopa and HG John Mor Irenaeus Episcopa of the Delhi Archdiocese. It was announced that all the Episcopas and Diocesan Vicars would be serving in different roles in the remaining seven services related to the funeral rites of Metropolitan Yohan. All of these services would also be done in several languages – English, Malayalam, Hindi, Nepali, etc. – to reflect the multi-linguistic and diverse ethnic nature of the Church worldwide.

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Women’s Fellowship Members from the Birtamod Diocese Gather to Pay Tribute to the Reposed Metropolitan

Nepal: Today marks the ninth day of mourning declared for the church worldwide since the repose of our beloved spiritual Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. As in all of our parishes, memorial services are being conducted for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory as part of the 40-day mourning period declared by the Holy Synod.

The members of our Women’s Fellowship from different parishes of Jhapa District (Birtamod Diocese) gathered in the St. Paul’s Cathedral in Birtamod to remember our late spiritual father the beloved Metropolitan Yohan. They also paid their respects to him by kindling the lamp in front of the Metropolitan’s portrait and offered prayers for his soul.

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Council of Bishops Gather at Synod Secretariat

The Council of Bishops gathered together today in the global headquarters of the Church at the St. Thomas Community in Thiruvalla. They began the day by offering prayers for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory at the Synod Secretariat chapel. They will be spending the next few days to prepare for the funeral rites of the Metropolitan Yohan and to pray for the grace of the Holy Trinity to guide the Church.

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May 17, 2024

Condolence Message from Fr. Maksymilian Nawara OSB, President of the Benedictine Congregation of the Annunciation

Condolence message from Fr. Maksymilian Nawara OSB, the Abbot President of the Benedictine Congregation of the Annunciation, on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our Metropolitan had great admiration for the monks of the Order of St. Benedict, and he always encouraged the clergy of our church to emulate the three monastic ideals that was embodied by the Benedictine community – obedience, chastity and simplicity.

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Thiruvalla Citizens Forum Meets at Synod Secretariat

The Thiruvalla Citizens Forum (Pourasamithi) met in the Church’s headquarters in the St. Thomas Community yesterday to discuss and prepare for the funeral arrangements for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. The meeting was led by the Resident Bishop of the St. Thomas Community, HG Joshua Mor Barnabas. The Forum decided that the mortal remains of Metropolitan Yohan would be received between 9-10 am at the corner of the K.S.R.T.C. Bus Station on the morning of May 20, 2024, so that the citizens of Thiruvalla town could pay homage to his memory. The Forum consisted of the Hon. Anto Antony (Member of Parliament, Pathanamthitta Constituency), the Muncipal Chairman and several other social and political representatives.

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Rt. Rev. Dr. Ostine M. A. Paul, Bishop of the Soul Winning Church of India, Expresses his Condolences

Rt. Rev. Dr. Ostine M . Paul, the Bishop of the Soul Winning Church of India (SWCI) expressed his condolences today at the memorial services held in honor of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory at the Synod Secretariat Chapel in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala. He assured the bishops, clergy and faithful of the Church of his continued prayers for them.

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A Tribute from Shri M.V. Govindan, Kerala State Secretary of the Communist Party of India

A tribute to Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory from M. V. Govindan, popularly known as Govindan Master, the current Kerala State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a member of the party’s Politburo since 2022.

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Aluva Artists Present Metropolitan’s Portrait

Our clergy and faithful received a comforting surprise this week. Two gifted artists from Aluva, Abdul Nazeer and Thazvin Nazeer, presented a beautiful portrait of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan to HG Mathews Mor Silvanus of Trivandrum. The artists were both admirers of the late Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I, and they wanted to honor his life and legacy with this offering of love.

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Condolence Message from the Holy Synod of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church

The Holy Synod of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church expressed their condolences on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory to all the members of the Believers Eastern Church. This was conveyed through their Media Cell Chairman HG Mor Dr. Kuriakose Theophilus Metropolitan.

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Memorial Services Held Across Diocese of Pokhara in Honor of Reposed Metropolitan

Nepal: Our faithful of the parishes and mission parishes from all over the Diocese of Pokhara gathered together in their churches to observe memorial services in honor of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our clergy, under the leadership of Diocesan Vicar Rev. Fr. Manja Tamang, led the faithful in prayers of the soul of the beloved Metropolitan. Two of our schools that are managed by the Diocese, the Believers English School in Dhorpatan and Syngjha, also had their students remember their patron and spiritual father in special ceremonies.

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Condolence Message from Ambassador of the Syrian Arab Republic in New Delhi

A condolence message from the Ambassador of the Syrian Arab Republic in New Delhi to HG John Mor Irenaeus Episcopa on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Students and Teachers of Believers English School Pay Respects to Reposed Metropolitan

Nepal: Students and teachers from the Phulgachhi Believers English school, Jhapa, visited the St. Paul’s Cathedral at Birtamod yesterday to pay tribute to their patron and spiritual father the beloved Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory, and to pray for his soul.

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Condolence Message from His Eminence Elpidophoros, the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

We are greatly comforted by the condolences and prayers from His Eminence
Elpidophoros, the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

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May 16, 2024

Public Viewing of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I’s Mortal Remains held at Dallas

The public viewing of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I’s mortal remains was held yesterday night (Wednesday, May 15, 2024) from 4-8 pm (CDT), at the Restland Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. A large gathering of people all over the US and Canada – our parishioners, friends, relatives and family members, Bishops, priests and leaders, friends from other denominations – were there to pay tribute to the late Metropolitan and to pray for his soul.

His Eminence Mor Titus Yeldho, the Archbishop and Patriarchal Vicar of the Malankara Archdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church in North America, led the gathering in special prayers for the Metropolitan’s soul. H.G. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios Metropolitan of the Kunnakulam Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church also came and expressed condolences on behalf of his church. Prof. P.J. Kurien, the former Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (the Upper House of the Parliament of Indian), a good friend of the late Metropolitan, expressed his condolences to HG Daniel Mor Timotheos, HG Geevarghese Mor Makarios and other members of the church.

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Condolence Message from Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala

Condolence Message from the Honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri Pinarayi Vijayan, on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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His Grace Mor Dr. Coorilose Geevarghese Metropolitan of the Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Church Offers Condolences

We were greatly comforted by the visit of His Grace Mor Dr. Coorilose Geevarghese Metropolitan of the Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Church at the global headquarters of our Church this evening. His Grace had come to pay his respects to the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I at the memorial service held in the Synod Secretariat chapel. He offered prayers and incense, entreating the Lord Almighty to give rest to the departed soul of Metropolitan Yohan. His Grace, who had been a good friend of Metropolitan Yohan, comforted the gathered bishops, clergy and faithful by reminding them of Metropolitan Yohan’s unwavering faith and dedication to the divine calling bestowed on him by the Almighty. He assured them of his continued prayers for them and encouraged them to continue in the example set for them by their spiritual father.

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St. Thomas Cathedral in Diocese of Hyderabad Holds Memorial Service

Telengana: In accordance with the special encyclical released by the Holy Synod last week, the parishes in the Diocese of Hyderabad have begun observing a 40-day mourning period for the recently reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I. The clergy and faithful of the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral at Bandlaguda have begun celebrating the Divine Liturgy every morning and memorial services every evening under the leadership of Diocesan Vicar Rev. Fr. Varaprasad Rao, praying for the soul of the beloved Metropolitan Yohan of blessed memory.

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Rt. Rev. Thomas Samuel, Bishop of the Church of South India, Offers Condolences

Rt. Rev. Thomas Samuel, Bishop of the Church of South India (CSI) visited the Church’s global headquarters today and offered condolences for the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I at the memorial service held in the Synod Secretariat chapel. His Grace remembered the many fruitful conversations he had had with the late Metropolitan and was thankful for those good memories. He also assured the bishops, clergy and lay faithful who had gathered for the service of his continuing prayers for the whole church.

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Parishes in Dioceses of Dhaka and Khagrachari Hold Memorial Services

Bangladesh: Several parishes from the Dioceses of Dhaka and Khagrachari observed memorial services for the repose of our spiritual father Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan of blessed memory. Clergy and lay faithful from all these churches offered special prayers and tributes to the beloved Metropolitan, remembering his life, legacy and contributions in building the church in their country.

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Memorial Services Held Across Parishes in Maharashtra

Maharashtra: Many of our parishes all over the Dioceses of Mumbai, Aurangabad and Nagpur came together under the guidance of HG Martin Mor Aprem Episcopa to observe memorial services for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our clergy led them in prayers for the departed soul of the Metropolitan, asking the Lord Almighty to grant His servant rest among the saints in His presence.

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Clergy and Faithful of Chandigarh Diocese Offer Prayers for the Repose of the Soul of Metopolitan Athanasius Yohan I

Punjab: Our clergy and faithful from the Chandigarh Diocese along with the students and management of our St. Johannes School gathered at our Chandigarh Cathedral to remember our spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and pay their respects to him. Under the leadership of HG Thomas Mor Koorilos Episcopa, our clergy offered special prayers for the departed soul of the Metropolitan, asking the Lord Almighty to grant mercy and rest to His servant.

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Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Chacko, St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, Offers Condolences

Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Chacko, the Prathinidhi Sabha Adhyakshan of the St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, attended the memorial service held for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I in the Synod Secretariat Chapel of the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala, and offered his condolences to the Bishops, clergy and lay faithful present during the service. He also paid tribute to the late Metropolitan Yohan, recognizing his significant contributions towards the building up of the Church in India as well as the upliftment of the poor and downtrodden in society.

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May 15, 2024

Parishes Across Diocese of Kathmandu Hold Memorial Services

Nepal: Parishes from all across the Diocese of Kathmandu came together to observe memorial services for our spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Under the guidance of HG Titus Mor Osthathiose, our clergy offered special prayers for the departed soul of the Metropolitan, asking the Lord Almighty to give His servant rest among the saints in His presence.

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The First Funeral Rites for Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan Held in Wills Point

In the orthodox Christian tradition, the funeral service usually consists of several rites. Accordingly, the first rite for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I took place this morning at the St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Wills Point, Texas.

The service was celebrated by HG Geevarghese Mor Makariose of Colombo & Kigali, and assisted by HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America & Europe. They were assisted by Fr. Brian Kirik and Fr. Javier Mendoza from Wills Point, Fr. Mathew Swan (St. Cyprian’s BEC, Stoney Creek, Canada), Fr. Dr. Daniel Johnson (Secretary General, Synod Secretariat) and Dn. Fr. Abel Punnoose (St. Thomas BEC Kuttapuzha, India), all of whom joined in praying for the departed soul of Metropolitan Yohan, asking the Holy Trinity to give His servant rest among the saints.

The public viewing of the Metropolitan’s mortal remains will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 4-8 pm (CDT), at the Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243.

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His Grace Joshua Mar Ignathios, Eparch of Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Offers Condolences

We are so grateful for the visit of His Grace the Most Reverend Joshua Mar Ignathios, the Eparch of the Eparchy of Mavelikara of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, to our global headquarters for the memorial service of our beloved Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. His Grace offered tribute to our Metropolitan’s memory and then expressed his condolences to the Bishops, clergy and lay faithful who had gathered for the memorial service at the Synod Secretariat’s chapel. Mar Ignathios Thirumeni then offered prayers with incense for the soul of our reposed Metropolitan, following which he spent some time strengthening the member bishops of the Holy Synod.

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Shri E.P. Jayarajan, Former Minister of the Government of Kerala and LDF Convenor, Expresses Condolences

We were honored to have Shri E.P. Jayarajan, Former Minister of the Government of Kerala and LDF Convenor, visiting the church’s global headquarters today. He expressed his condolences on the repose the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and also personally met with the bishops of the church.

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Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos, the Suffragan Metropolitan of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church Expresses Condolences

This afternoon, we were graced by the presence of Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos, the Suffragan Metropolitan of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church at the memorial service held for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I in the Church’s Synod Secretariat Chapel. His Eminence expressed his condolences to the gathered Bishops, clergy and faithful of the Church and encouraged them to continue the missionary endeavors began by Metropolitan Yohan.

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His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios I, the Metropolitan of Thozhiyur Church, Offers Prayers for the Reposed Metropolitan

Our bishops, clergy and faithful were greatly comforted by the visit of His Grace the Most Reverend Cyril Mar Baselios I, the Primate and Metropolitan of the Malabar Independent Syrian Church (Thozhiyur Sabha) at the Synod Secretariat in the Church’s global headquarters. His Grace expressed his condolences at the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I and offered prayers and incense for his soul during the memorial service held for the reposed Metropolitan.

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Memorial Services Held Across Dioceses of Hyderabad and Karimnagar

Telengana: Parishes from all across the Dioceses of Hyderabad and Karimnagar came together to observe memorial services for our spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our clergy offered special prayers to the Lord Almighty, asking His mercy upon the departed soul of the Metropolitan in these services, and also encouraged the faithful to continue in his example of love and service to all mankind.

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Clergy and Faithful in Diocese of Imphal Pay Tribute to Reposed Metropolitan

Manipur: Many of our clergy and lay faithful gathered together in the Diocesan Headquarters in Laimanai, under the leadership of HG Jeremiah Mor Theodosius of Imphal, to offer prayers for the soul of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. They paid tribute by placing flowers in front of the Metropolitan’s portrait and sang hymns that asked the Almighty to grant His servant rest among the saints in His presence.

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Memorial Services Held in Diocese of Delhi

Our parishes from the Diocese of Delhi also observed memorial services to remember the recently reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Many of the faithful came to pay tribute to their spiritual father and to express their grief at his passing. Our clergy offered prayers for the departed soul of the Metropolitan and also strengthened the faithful by reminding them that they had to ensure the continuation of the mission that the Metropolitan had begun.

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St. Johannes School Students and Teachers Pay Tribute to Reposed Metropolitan

From Kolkata Diocese (West Bengal): Students and teachers from the St. Johannes School, Madhyamgram, visited the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral today and paid tribute to the memory of their patron and spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Memorial Services Held Across Dioceses in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh: Several parishes from the Dioceses of Vizag, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Kadapa observed memorial services for the repose of our spiritual father Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan of blessed memory. Clergy and lay faithful from all these churches offered special prayers and tributes to the beloved Metropolitan, remembering his life, legacy and contributions in building the church, especially their dioceses.

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Condolence Message from Dr. George Samuel, President of Olive Theological Institute

A heart-touching condolence message from Dr. George Samuel, retired nuclear scientist and President of the Olive Theological Institute, to the members of the Believers Eastern Church on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our beloved Metropolitan and Dr. George were friends who shared a vision for spreading the love of Christ all over India.

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Memorial Service Held in Diocese of Agartala

Tripura: The clergy and all the faithful of the Agartala diocese gathered together under the leadership of HG Yacob Mor Theophanous Episcopa to remember our spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and offered prayers for his departed soul as well as for the comfort of his family members.

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St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Kolkata Holds Memorial Service

West Bengal: Yesterday evening, the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Kolkata gathered together for a memorial service to remember the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory at the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Madhyamgram, under the leadership of Diocesan Vicar Rev. Fr. Ritesh Kumar. Clergy from the nearby parishes also attended to pray for the soul of the beloved Metropolitan.

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Condolence Message from Indian Evangelical Team

Condolence message from Rev. Shaji Varghese, the President of the Indian Evangelical Team (IET), to all the members of the Believers Eastern Church on the occasion of the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our Metropolitan had a great respect for IET’s founder Dr. P.G. Vargis because they shared a mutual passion to share the message of God’s love to everyone. We are greatly comforted by the IET’s prayers for us at this time of great sorrow.

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May 14, 2024

Students and Teachers of Believers English School in Nepal Pay Tribute to the Reposed Metropolitan

Students and teachers from Nakalbanda Believers English School, Jhapa, visited St. Paul Believers Eastern Church, Birtamod, to offer prayers and pay tribute to their patron and spiritual father, the Honorable Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, the Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, Offers Condolences

We are greatly comforted, beyond words, by the condolences from His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, the Patriarch of Antioch and all of the East, and the Supreme Head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, to all the bishops, clergy and the faithful of our church on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius I of blessed memory.

Our Metropolitan greatly revered the Syrian Orthodox Church and her traditions, recognizing that she had faithfully preserved the faith of the Holy Church throughout the centuries. He often cited the examples of the fervent faith of Syrian Christian martyrs and had urged the members of the Believers Eastern Church to emulate their faith and example. We are so thankful for the fraternal love, prayers and condolences from His Holiness and his Church at this very difficult time in our history.

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Condolence Message from National Council of Churches in Bangladesh

Condolence message from Rev. David Anirudh Das, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in Bangladesh on the repose of the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Right Reverend Oommen George, Bishop Emeritus of Kollam-Kottarakara Diocese of Church of South India, Offers Condolences

We were comforted by the presence and the condolences of the Right Reverend Oommen George, Bishop Emeritus of Kollam-Kottarakara Diocese of the Church of South India (CSI), when he came to attend the memorial services at the Synod Secretariat chapel, located in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala. His Grace paid tribute to the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and encouraged the Bishops, clergy and faithful to keep moving forward in pursuit of the Metropolitan Yohan’s vision for the church.

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Memorial Services Held Across Diocese of Lucknow

The clergy and faithful of our parishes across the Diocese of Lucknow gathered yesterday to remember our spiritual father Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and to pray for his departed soul. This diocese held a special place in his heart. Since the early days of his ministry, he dedicated himself to spreading the love of Christ among the people of this vast state. As Metropolitan, he tirelessly championed numerous social initiatives and church services aimed at aiding the underprivileged in this diocese. His legacy of compassion and service continues to inspire us all.

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Condolence Message from Hon. A.K.M. Mozammel Huq, MP

Condolence message from the Hon. A.K.M. Mozammel Huq, MP from Gazipur Constituency and the Minister for Liberation War Affairs of the country of Bangladesh.

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Dr. Ginu Zacharia Oommen, Political Activist and Academic, Offers Condolences

We were honored by the visit of the political activist and academic, Dr. Ginu Zacharia Oommen, former member of the Kerala Public Service Commission, presently working at the India Center for Migration under the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (Government of India), Visiting Professor at the International Institute of Migration and Development, who came to the memorial service held at the Synod Secretariat in the Global Headquarters of our Church and expressed his condolences at the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Condolence Message from Bangladesh Methodist Church

Condolence message from Bishop Dr. Simon R. Biswas, the Chairman of the Bangladesh Methodist Church on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Rev. Dr. George Eapen, the Presiding Bishop of the St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India Offers Condolences

Rev. Dr. George Eapen, the Presiding Bishop of the St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India Fellowship, visited the Church’s global headquarters yesterday and offered condolences for the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I at the memorial service held in the Synod Secretariat chapel. His Grace then took the time to meet many of our bishops and assured them of his continuing prayers for the whole church.

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HG Geevarghese Mor Makarios Arrives Safely in US; Pays His Respects to the Reposed Metropolitan

HG Geevarghese Mor Makarios of Colombo and Kigali arrived safely in the US this weekend. He had been deputed by the Holy Synod to represent the Council of Bishops at the memorial services that would take place in Dallas for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I. He co-celebrated the Divine Liturgy with HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America and Europe at the St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral at Wills Point, and also took the time to comfort the members of the parish. After the service, His Grace Mor Makarios paid his respects to the reposed Metropolitan and offered prayers for his soul.

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Mission Parish in Japan Holds Memorial Service

The clergy and members of our mission parish in Tokyo, Japan gathered yesterday to remember the beloved Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory and to pray for his soul. They also took time to pray for the comfort of the family of the reposed Metropolitan and for the whole church that was mourning worldwide.

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May 13, 2024

Memorial Service Held in Diocese of Solan

Many of our clergy and lay faithful of the Diocese of Solan gathered yesterday to observe memorial services and to pray for the soul of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I. They placed flowers and garlands to honor his contributions towards the building up of their diocese.

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Congress MP Shri. Kodikunnil Suresh Visits Synod Secretariat and Offers Condolences

Seven-time Congress Lok Sabha member Shri Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, visited the Synod Secretariat today and expressed his condolences at the repose of the departed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I.  

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Condolence Message from Abbot Clement Joji Ettaniyil of St. Thomas Benedictine Monastery

The Abbot of the St. Thomas Benedictine Monastery, Kappadu, Abbot Clement Joji Ettaniyil (O.S.B) offered his condolences on behalf of his community on the repose of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Our beloved Metropolitan always had a high regard for the monks of the Order of St. Benedict, and he would always cite their example as models of true Christians who give up their all for the sake of Christ.

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St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Texas Holds Third Day Memorial Prayers

Yesterday, the clergy and the faithful of the St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Texas, US, gathered to have the Third Day Memorial Prayers for Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. The service was led by HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America and Europe, who reminded the parish members that purpose of our lives was communion with God, and that we would continue to grow closer to knowing God more even after we die – this is not something that stops with our earthly lives. Therefore, it was important to always pray for those who departed and remember them, asking for God’s mercy upon their souls.

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Memorial Service Held in St. John’s Believers Eastern Church, Gujarat

The clergy and faithful of the St. John’s Believers Eastern Church in Diocese of Anand gathered today to observe a memorial service for the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. They paid tribute to the reposed Metropolitan and offered prayers for his soul. Some of the parish members also took the opportunity to share about how the late Metropolitan had inspired them to serve God and live a Christ-centered life.

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St. Paul’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Birtamod Holds Memorial Service

The priest and the faithful of the St. Paul’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Birtamod, Nepal, met yesterday to conduct memorial services and to pray for the soul of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. It was a very painful time for them because the reposed Metropolitan had very recently visited them to celebrate Easter Sunday at their parish, just a month ago. But they remain grateful to God for the time that they got to spend with the Metropolitan and the privilege to receive his blessings. With them, we together say, “May his memory be eternal!”

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Memorial Service Held at St. Cyprian Believers Eastern Church in Canada

The priest and the faithful of the St. Cyprian Believers Eastern Church in Ontario, Canada, recently gathered to have memorial services for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory, and to pray for his soul.

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Tribute from Journalist Mr. MPK Kutty (formerly of the Times of India, Delhi)

A moving tribute from the journalist Mr. MPK Kutty (formerly of the Times of India, Delhi) in honor of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory

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May 12, 2024

Memorial Service Held at St. Peter’s Cathedral in US

The clergy and the faithful of the St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Wills Point, Texas, recently gathered to have memorial services for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. The services were led by HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America and Europe.

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Shri N.K. Premachandran, MP Offers Condolences

Shri N.K. Premachandran, MP (LS) from Kollam constituency visited the church’s global headquarters yesterday and expressed his condolences on the repose the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. We were also honored to have his wife, Dr. Geetha, accompanying him during the visit.

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His Grace Mor Gregorios Kuriakose and His Grace Mor Ivaniose Kuriakose Offer Prayers for the Departed Soul of Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan

It was a double comfort for our bishops, priests and faithful to receive two Metropolitans from the Knanaya Archdiocese of the Syrian Orthodox Church at our Synod Secretariat in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala today. Both His Grace Mor Gregorios Kuriakose (Metropolitan of Kallisery & Malabar) and His Grace Mor Ivaniose Kuriakose (Metropolitan of Ranni & Bahya Kerala) expressed their condolences to the members of the church and offered prayers and incense for the soul of the departed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Memorial Prayer Held in St. Peter’s Cathedral in Sri Lanka

The priests and faithful of St. Peter’s Believers Eastern Church Cathedral in Diocese of Colombo gathered together to offer prayers for the departed soul of Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan.

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The National Christian Council of the State of West Bengal Offers Condolences

The National Christian Council of the state of West Bengal offered their condolences to Believers Eastern Church on the repose of the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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Condolences from Hon. Ramesh Chennithala, Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly

Condolences from Hon. Ramesh Chennithala, Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, Haripad Constituency, and Working Committee Member of the Indian National Congress.

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Rev. Dr. T. Bhasker, the General Secretary of the Telengana Council of Churches (TCC), Expresses Condolences

Rev. Dr. T. Bhasker, the General Secretary of the Telengana Council of Churches (TCC), expressed his condolences on behalf of the Council on the repose of the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory. Along with the 250 parishes of our dioceses in the state of Telangana, the whole Church is grateful for the TCC’s support at this most difficult time in our history.

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Fr. Mathai OIC of the Bethany Ashram Expresses Condolences

During the memorial service held today for the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I at the Church’s global headquarters, Fr. Mathai OIC of the Bethany Ashram (The Order of the Imitation of Christ) expressed his condolences on the repose the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory, and offered prayers on behalf of the hierarch’s departed soul.

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Condolence message from the Asian Theological Association, (ATA India)

Condolence message from the Asian Theological Association, (ATA India). Believers Eastern Church’s major seminary, the St. Ignatius Theological Seminary (SITS) is accredited by the ATA for both their Undergraduate and Graduate Theological programmes. The SITS faculty and students are grateful to the ATA family for standing with them at this difficult time.

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May 11, 2024

Update on Public Viewing in United States

There will be a public viewing of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I for the sake of our lay faithful, friends and well-wishers in the United States. It will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 4-8 pm, at the Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243.

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May 10, 2024 21:50 (IST)

Update on the Date of Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I’s Funeral

The interim Episcopal Council had a virtual gathering of all the Bishops, Diocesan Vicars, Provincial Vicars and leaders of different ministries of the Church at 7 pm this evening. The meeting was presided by the administrator of the Council, HG Samuel Mor Theophilus Episcopa, who informed the gathering of the following:

◘HG Geevarghese Mor Makarios of Colombo and Kigali is deputed to travel to the US on behalf of the Council of Bishops and to help with the memorial services that would be held for the reposed Metropolitan’s soul in Dallas, Texas.

◘The mortal remains of the reposed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory is expected to be brought to India from the US by May 20, 2024, and would be kept for public viewing at the Believers Convention Center located at the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala.

◘The funeral rites of the reposed Metropolitan would be held on May 21, 2024, at the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral, located in the global headquarters of the Church in Thiruvalla, Kerala.

◘The entire funeral rites and services would be telecast live over the news channels and the internet.

◘Beginning from today, all the dioceses and parishes of the Church worldwide are to observe a 40-day mourning period. During the Divine Liturgies held during this period, all celebrants are to include Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I’s name as the first among the departed souls to be remembered in the diptychs.

During the meeting, both the Secretary General Fr. Dr. Daniel Johnson and HG Daniel Mor Timotheos of North America & Europe addressed the gathering and explained the circumstances related to the recent accident and repose of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan. Mor Timotheos Episcopa then reminded everyone of how the Metropolitan had always advised him and other bishops that they had to be strong even in times of difficulty and sorrow, for the sake of shepherding the faithful of the church.

HG Samuel Mor Theophilus then ended the meeting by thanking Mor Timotheos Episcopa and the parish members of the St. Peter’s Cathedral in Dallas, Texas, for taking care of Metropolitan Yohan during his final earthly moments. He also thanked HG Joshua Mor Barnabas, Fr. Sijo Pandapallil and the priests and members of the St. Thomas Community and the Synod Secretariat at the Church’s global headquarters for making the arrangements for the Metropolitan’s memorial services over the last two days. He then reminded the leadership of the Church that the Sovereign Lord was in control and would continue to lead the Church in the days ahead. He ended the meeting by requesting continued prayers for Metropolitan Yohan’s soul and for the funeral arrangements, that the church would be able to give the beloved Metropolitan a befitting farewell.

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Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Barnabas Suffragan Metropolitan of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church Offer Condolences

Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Barnabas Suffragan Metropolitan of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church, who was a close friend of our beloved Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory, along with the Very Rev. George Zechariah, another friend of our Metropolitan, and other priests of the Marthoma Church offered prayers for the departed soul of Metropolitan Yohan at the Synod Secretariat chapel in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala. His Eminence also offered his condolences to our Bishops and the faithful and promised to keep them in his prayers.

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HG Alexios Mar Eusebius Metropolitan Expresses Condolences

The bishops and faithful of Believers Eastern Church were graced by the visit of HG Alexios Mar Eusebius Metropolitan of the Calcutta Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. His Grace, who is also the President of the Kerala Council of Churches (KCC) expressed his condolences at the repose of the departed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I, and assured that all the member churches of the KCC were praying for the faithful of the Believers Eastern Church in prayer at this most difficult time.

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Rt. Rev. Mathews Mar Seraphim Episcopa of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church Offers Condolences

Rt. Rev. Mathews Mar Seraphim Episcopa of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church expressed his condolences to the Bishops and the faithful of the Believers Eastern Church and offered prayers for the soul of the departed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I.

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Kerala Health Minister, Smt. Veena George, Kerala Congress Chief Jose K. Mani and Political Leaders Visit Synod Secretariat to Offer Condolences

The Minister for Health and Woman and Child Development in the Government of Kerala, Smt. Veena George, the chairman of Kerala Congress, Shri Jose K Mani, and several other political leaders and dignitaries visited the Synod Secretariat and expressed their condolences at the repose of the departed Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I.  

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May 10, 2024 19:43 (IST)

Condolence Message from the Hon. Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament, Thiruvananthapuram Constituency

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Condolence message from Shri Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, India

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Andhra Pradesh Council of Churches Offers Condolences

Dr. G.S. Sudhir, the General Secretary of the Andhra Pradesh Council of Churches offered condolences on behalf of the Council to the members of the Believers Eastern Church on the repose of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan of blessed memory.

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Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma Expresses Condolences

The Honorable Chief Minister of the state of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members of the Metropolitan Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory as well as to the members of the Believers Eastern Church family.

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Condolence message from the Venerable Dr. Assaji Thero

Condolence message from the Venerable Dr. Assaji Thero, Chief incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country of Sri Lanka.

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Condolence Message from Meetei Christian Churches Council, Manipur

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May 10, 2024

Condolence Message from His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe, the President of Sri Lanka

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May 10, 2024 12:33 (IST)

The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin Expresses Condolences

Condolence message from the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, on the repose of our beloved Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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May 10, 2024

Condolence Message from His Grace the Most Reverend Cyril Mar Baselios I

Condolence message from His Grace the Most Reverend Cyril Mar Baselios I, the Metropolitan of the Malabar Independent Syrian Church (Thozhiyur Sabha). We are so grateful for His Grace’s love for and friendship with our beloved Metropolitan Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory.

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May 10, 2024

Condolences from the Registrar of the Senate of Serampore College (University)

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May 09, 2024, 21:30 (IST)

Update on Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan’s Funeral

The Holy Synod of the Believers Eastern Church gathered at the Church’s headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala, this evening, to decide the next steps necessary to lead the church in the vacuum left by the repose of Moran Mor Athanasius I Metropolitan. Few of the Synod members from other countries, including HG Daniel Mor Timotheos, attended the meeting virtually. After offering prayers for the Metropolitan’s soul, the Synod decided to form a nine-member interim Episcopal council led by senior bishop HG Dr. Samuel Mor Theophilus to manage the administration of the church until the election of the next Metropolitan.

The Synod also decided that the funeral service of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan would be held in the St. Thomas Believers Eastern Church Cathedral, located in the Church’s global headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala, and would be officiated by HG Dr. Samuel Mor Theophilus in the presence of all the bishops of the Believers Eastern Church, after which His Holiness would be laid to rest in the courtyard of the Cathedral.

There is no official confirmation yet on the date of the funeral. It is estimated that it will take 8-10 days to complete all the procedures and requirements in the US before the Metropolitan’s mortal remains can be brought to India.

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May 09, 2024, 20:30 (IST)

The Holy Synod Gathers to Pay Respects to Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan

The Holy Synod of the Believers Eastern Church gathered at the Church’s headquarters in Thiruvalla, Kerala, this evening. They paid their respects to the late Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan and offered prayers for his departed soul at the special condolence service held at the chapel at the Synod Secretariat.

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May 09, 2024, 20:00 (IST)

His Beatitude Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I and His Eminence Mor Gregorios Joseph Offer Condolences

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May 09, 2024 18:00 (IST)

Believers Eastern Church Rwanda Holds Memorial Prayer Service

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May 09, 2024 17:00 (IST)

NCCI pays tribute to Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan: Rev. Asir Ebenezer, the General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) officially paid tribute on behalf of the Council to the Metropolitan Athanasius Yohan I of blessed memory, remembering his life, legacy and contributions. He also expressed the condolences of the Council members to the leadership of the Church. We are grateful to the NCCI and her leadership for standing with us during this time of our loss.

NCCI Pays Tribute to Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan

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May 09, 2024 16:00 (IST)

Condolence Prayers Held at Synod Secretariat

Many of the priests and the faithful of the Believers Eastern Church, political leaders, heads of various churches gathered today at the Synod Secretariat Chapel in the St. Thomas Community in Thiruvalla, Kerala, along with the staff of the various institutions of the church – doctors, nurses, teachers, administrators – as well many friends and well-wishers, to pay their respects and express their condolences at the repose of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan.

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May 09, 2024 13:00 (IST)

Condolence Message from the Hon. Dinesh Chandra Rupasinghe Gunawardena, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

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May 09, 2024 12:30 (IST)

Condolence Message from the High Commissioner of the Rublic of Rwanda to India, Jacqueline Mukangira

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May 09, 2024 10:34 (IST)

Indian PM Narendra Modi Expresses Condolences

Honorable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the passing away of Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan.

Taking to Twitter PM Modi wrote, “I am pained by the passing away of the Metropolitan of Believers Eastern Church, Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan. He will be remembered for his service to society and emphasis on improving the quality of life of the downtrodden. My thoughts are with his family and all devotees of the Believers Church. May his soul rest in peace.”

I am pained by the passing away of the Metropolitan of Believers Eastern Church, Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan. He will be remembered for his service to society and emphasis on improving the quality of life of the downtrodden. My thoughts are with his family and all devotees of the…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 9, 2024

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May 08, 2024 22:51 (IST)

Shri John Barla, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Extends Condolences

Deeply distressed & pained at the shocking demise of HH Moran Mor Athnasius Yohan I, Metropolitan, Believers Eastern Church.
A personification of constructive positivity & passion for India, my recent meeting with him left an everlasting impression.
My heartfelt condolences.
RIP! pic.twitter.com/JhrOPqLYy6

— John Barla (Modi Ka Parivar) (@johnbarlabjp) May 8, 2024

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May 08, 2024 21:45 (IST)

Condolence message from His Excellency Shri. Vinay Kumar Saxena, the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Delhi

Deeply distressed & pained at the shocking demise of HH Moran Mor Athnasius Yohan I, Metropolitan, Believers Eastern Church.
A personification of constructive positivity & passion for India, my recent meeting with him left an everlasting impression.
My heartfelt condolences.
RIP! pic.twitter.com/ALTfOvHfsL

— LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) May 8, 2024

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May 08, 2024 20:51 (IST)

Believers Eastern Church Offices, Institutions to Remain Closed Tomorrow

Believers Eastern Church offices, schools, and other institutions across the dioceses will remain closed on Thursday as a mark of respect to Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan, who reposed in the Lord on Wednesday.

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May 08,2024 20:00 (IST)

Special Memorial Prayer Service Held at Synod Secretariat

Episcopas, priests, leaders of the church’s various departments and institutions, and heads of other churches gathered at the Synod Secretariat to offer special prayers for the departed soul of Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan.

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May 08, 2024 19:36 (IST)

Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan Reposed in the Lord

His Holiness Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan reposed in the Lord this evening, the 8th of May 2024.

He passed away due to sudden cardiac arrest in a hospital in Dallas, Texas where he had been receiving treatment since his accident.

Further details will be announced soon by the Holy Synod.

May his memory be eternal!

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May 08, 2024 03:12 (IST)

Council of Bishop Calls for Prayer for Metropolitan’s Speedy Recovery

The Council of Bishops of Believers Eastern Church has called for an intense and focused time of prayer for the next three days, specifically for the speedy recovery of the Metropolitan.

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May 07, 2024 00:27 (IST)

Metropolitan’s Surgery Successful: Continued Monitoring Required

The surgery went well. We urge for your continued prayers as medical professionals monitor his recovery.

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May 07, 2024 21:43 (IST)

Metropolitan Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Injured in Car Accident: Urgent Prayers Needed

Moran Mor Athanasius Yohan I Metropolitan was involved in a car accident a couple of hours ago. He has sustained some serious injuries, mainly to the head and chest. Doctors are going to operate on him soon. Please pray for his quick and complete recovery from all the injuries sustained.