Thoma IX


Mar Thoma IX was the ninth Metropolitan of the Malankara Church in Kerala, India. In 1816, he was consecrated by Mar Thoma VIII. Soon after his ordination he was dethroned by Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysious I who was appointed by the then British resident Colonel John Munroe.

Consecration

Iype, an uncle of Mar Thoma VIII, was born at Kadamattom. He was ordained as a Kathanar and was called Iype Kathanar. While Mar Thoma VIII was on his death bed, he called Iype Kathanar, laid his hands on him, and consecrated him as his successor Mar Thoma IX.

As Metropolitan

consecrated Mar Thoma IX, as his successor. Soon after the death of his predecessor, while Mar Thoma IX was at Puthencavu, he had received a letter from the British Resident in Travancore Coln. Munroe that he was not the approved Metropolitan and should handover all the charges to Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysious I who was consecrated by Mar Philexinos of Thozhiyoor.
Mar Thoma IX was taken to Kottayam, by Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysious and took possession of all insignia from Mar Thoma IX. With tears in his eyes Mar Thoma left the Seminary premises at Kottayam and retired to his home parish Kadamattom palli, spending the rest of his days in prayer and fasting, as a great Monk.

Last days

He continued as a bishop till the end of his life. He died in 1817 and was laid to rest at St. George's Church, Kadamattom near Kolenchery, Muvattupuzha.