Kochi: Joseph Mar Gregorios Metropolitan has been appointed as the new Catholicos of the Jacobite Church, following the passing of Baselios Thomas I, the previous head of the church. The announcement was made by His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Aprem II, the Supreme Patriarch of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, who confirmed that Metropolitan Joseph Mar Gregorios, currently serving as the president of the church's Episcopal Synod, will soon be formally installed in the position.

After the resignation of Baselios Thomas I due to health issues, Joseph Mar Gregorios had been handling the administrative duties of the church as the Metropolitan Trustee and Bishop of Malankara. Additionally, it was revealed that the late Catholicos had expressed in his will that he wished for Joseph Mar Gregorios to succeed him.

The Patriarch shared this news during the Holy Mass at Malekurish Dayara Cathedral, acknowledging the great responsibility that comes with the new role and the challenges ahead. He expressed confidence that with the prayers and support of the church members, the church would continue to move forward. The Patriarch also mentioned that efforts were underway, with the involvement of both the government and church leaders, to resolve the issues of division within the church, emphasizing that the faithful from both sides seek peace.