Kochi: The Syro-Malabar Church mourns the passing of Archbishop Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, a towering figure in Kerala’s ecclesiastical history, who passed away at the age of 94. Remembered as a visionary and compassionate shepherd, Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy served as the first bishop of the Diocese of Mananthavady, the second bishop of the Diocese of Thamarassery, and later as Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Thrissur.
Born Chacko Thoomkuzhy on December 13, 1930, in the Diocese of Pala to Kurian and Rosa, he entered the seminary early, demonstrating a profound calling to the priesthood. During his theological studies, the Diocese of Thalassery was established, presenting him with new opportunities to serve the Church. Responding to the guidance of Father Valloppilly, he pursued advanced studies in Rome, where he was ordained a priest on December 22, 1956, and later earned a doctorate in canon law. Upon returning to India, he took up the roles of secretary to Father Valloppilly, chancellor of the Archdiocese of Thalassery, and parish priest of Kunduthode.
On May 1, 1973, Father Thoomkuzhy was consecrated as the first bishop of the newly established Diocese of Mananthavady. His tenure was marked by tireless pastoral care, particularly for migrant communities struggling to build livelihoods amidst harsh conditions. Under his leadership, the diocese saw significant spiritual and social development, including initiatives to empower migrants, improve education, and support community self-sufficiency. Recognizing the vital role of religious congregations in nurturing faith, he founded the Kristudasi Sanyasa Sabha in 1977, an organization that continues its missionary work across India and abroad.
Following his remarkable service in Mananthavady, he was appointed to the Diocese of Thamarassery before being elevated to Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur. His visionary leadership transformed the Archdiocese through institutions such as Mary Matha Major Seminary in Mulayam, aimed at modernizing priestly formation, and the Thrissur Jubilee Mission Medical College, Jyothi Engineering College, and Peringandur AIDS Rehabilitation Center. He also spearheaded the Palayoor Maha Tirthadalona Nahasa Abhi, a spiritual initiative that revitalized faith across the Thrissur Archdiocese.
Archbishop Thoomkuzhy retired from administrative duties on January 22, 2007, yet continued to live a life of simplicity, humility, and service. His 50th episcopal anniversary was celebrated on May 1, 2023, honoring a lifetime of dedication to the Church and its people. Known for his large heart, he always recognized goodness in others and encouraged it to flourish, leaving an enduring legacy of love, pastoral care, and spiritual guidance.
The Syro-Malabar Church and faithful across Kerala remember Archbishop Mar Jacob Thoonguzhy as a gentle and radiant embodiment of the Gospel, whose life reflected God’s love and inspired generations of clergy and laity alike.