Our Story & Heritage
Discover the rich history and spiritual journey of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, rooted in ancient traditions and united in faith.
Our History
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church is an Eastern Catholic Church based in Kerala, India. The church has its roots in the Malankara Church, which was founded in the 1st century by St. Thomas the Apostle. The Malankara Church was originally part of the Assyrian Church of the East, but it gradually became more influenced by Syriac Christianity.
In the 16th century, the Malankara Church came into contact with the Portuguese, who brought Roman Catholicism to India. Some members of the Malankara Church converted to Roman Catholicism, but many others resisted and formed their own church, known as the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.
In the early 20th century, a group of Malankara Orthodox Christians sought to reunite with the Catholic Church. In 1930, they were received into the Catholic Church by Pope Pius XI and formed the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The church maintains its own distinct liturgical and spiritual traditions, which are based on the Syriac tradition.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church has grown significantly in recent years, both in India and around the world. Today, the church has around 500,000 members, with the majority living in Kerala. The church is led by a Major Archbishop, who is based in the city of Trivandrum.
Faith Rooted in Tradition, Hope Focused on Eternity
Guided by our spiritual leaders who embody the rich traditions and eternal hope of our faith.
HOLY FATHER POPE LEO XIV
Supreme Pontiff, Catholic Church
The Syro Malankara Catholic Church proudly stands in profound communion with the Universal Catholic Church. Guided by the spiritual leadership and teachings of the Holy Father, we cherish and uphold our shared faith, recognizing him as the shepherd of our global Catholic community.
HIS BEATITUDE BASELIOS CARDINAL CLEEMIS CATHOLICOS
Major Archbishop-Catholicos
Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church since 2007 and a Cardinal since 2012, leads with deep faith, unity, and tradition, fostering communion with the Holy See, ecumenical dialogue, and pastoral care.
HIS EXCELLENCY MOST REV. DR. PHILIPOS MAR STEPHANOS
Bishop of the Eparchy of St Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos, Bishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy of the U.S. and Canada since 2017, shepherds the faithful with humility and care, dedicated to youth, families, and building a vibrant Malankara Catholic community.
Our Mission & Values
We are committed to preserving our ancient traditions while serving our community with love and compassion.
Sacred Tradition
Preserving and celebrating our ancient Syriac liturgical traditions passed down through generations.
Community Service
Serving our community with love, compassion, and dedication to social justice and spiritual growth.
Global Unity
Connecting faithful communities worldwide while maintaining our unique Eastern Catholic identity.