MUMBAI: The Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church is hosting the Centenary of its most senior Bishop, Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan on January 14, 2017 at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. State Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Rajya Sabha deputy speaker PJ Kurian will also be present on the occasion.
Dr. Philipose who will complete 100 years on April 27, 2017 has been a bishop for over 63 of those, which makes him the longest-serving bishop in India. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius of Mumbai Diocesan says, “This is a great moment for everyone as Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom will complete 100 years. This is a long cherished moment as he is the longest-serving bishop in India and the first bishop to reach the age of 100 across the world.”
The centenary function of Dr Philipose will see over 3,000 delegates from Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat attending the grand function to be held on January 14 in Vashi. He was born on April 27, 1917 and began his life journey as Philip Oommen as son of KE Oommen and Mrs Sosamma.
Dr. Geevarghese said, “Dr Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan is an outstanding personality, remarkable for brilliant ideas and born with a sense of humour. He stands on the threshold of his birth centenary celebrations. As a refuge to everyone in distress and sorrow, Thirumeni’s special concern for the socially and economically backward is noteworthy.”
He added that Dr Philipose is endowed with an extraordinary and indescribable talent to mingle with the youth, to enter into a dialogue with them, imbibing modern views and pulses. His presence is sought not only in Church gatherings, but also at various religious and cultural organizations, which demand his advice and blessings, DNA reported.
Dr Geevarghese said, “The Mumbai Diocese Mar Thoma community has significant milestones marking its path of leadership and initiative. In this part of Western India, especially in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa, comprising more than 6,000 members, play a pivotal role in the development of social, educational, political preview at national and local levels of the community.” Under Dr. Geevarghese Mar guidance, several new projects are undertaken for uplifting of rag pickers, commercial sex workers, transgender, tribals, intellectually challenged children, and various integrated programs.