Former Thrissur Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy Passes Away At 94
The Syro-Malabar Church mourns Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy, remembered for decades of service.
Jacob Thoomkuzhy, the esteemed former Archbishop of the Thrissur archdiocese and a prominent figure in the Syro-Malabar Church, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 94. Church officials confirmed his death occurred at 2:50 pm, with funeral arrangements to be announced later. Thoomkuzhy, who had been residing at a seminary since his retirement, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service within one of India's largest Eastern Catholic communities.
Born on December 13, 1930, in Vilakumadam, Pala, within the Eparchy of Palai in Kottayam district, Thoomkuzhy was ordained as a priest on December 22, 1956. He rose through the ecclesiastical ranks, becoming the inaugural Bishop of the Mananthavady diocese in 1973, followed by his appointment as Bishop of Thamarassery.
In 1997, he was elevated to Archbishop of Thrissur, leading the archdiocese for a decade until his retirement in 2007. His family later affiliated with the Sacred Heart parish in Vilakumadam. The Syro-Malabar Church, an Eastern Catholic rite in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, is primarily based in Kerala and traces its origins to St Thomas the Apostle.
Thoomkuzhy's contributions extended beyond administrative roles; he founded the Society of Kristu Dasis, a religious congregation dedicated to charitable works. During his tenure, he focused on pastoral care, education, and social welfare initiatives in northern Kerala dioceses. After stepping down, he continued to inspire through his scholarly pursuits and quiet life at the seminary, mentoring younger clergy and engaging in community service.
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Kerala Assembly Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan expressed condolences, highlighting Thoomkuzhy's enduring impact on the faithful. Tributes from church leaders and laity are expected as arrangements proceed, reflecting his widespread respect in ecclesiastical and civic circles.
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