Orthodox Church Warns Patriarch's Visit to Manarcad Church May Worsen Factional Dispute

A possible visit by Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch, to the St Mary's Jacobite Syrian Cathedral at Manarcad has met with strong opposition from the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

Church Position

Yuhanon Mar Diascoros Metropolitan, head of the Orthodox Church media wing, stated on Saturday that the Church welcomes talks between the Patriarch and the Catholicos. However, he warned that visiting disputed churches instead of holding discussions will only cause fresh tensions and violate court orders.

Legal Concerns

The Orthodox Church urged the State government and police chief to examine if the visit violates Indian laws, noting the Patriarch is hosted as a State guest. The Metropolitan also pointed out contradictions between government peace efforts and statements made by state lawyers in court.

Context

Disputes between different factions of the Malankara Church over property and administration have a long history in Kerala, often involving complex legal battles and court directives. Resolving such deep-seated differences typically requires formal dialogue and adherence to judicial rulings upheld by top courts.