Thrissur: The Thrissur Archdiocese is preparing to bid a final farewell to Archbishop Emeritus Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, whose passing marks the end of an era of compassionate and visionary leadership. The Archbishop will be laid to rest on Monday, September 22, 2025, with a series of solemn ceremonies planned to honor his life and legacy.
The first phase of the funeral rites will begin at 11:30 am on Sunday, September 21, at the Thrissur Archdiocese Hall. Following this, the body of Archbishop Thoomkuzhy will be placed for public viewing at the Thrissur Dolores Basilica Church until 12:15 pm, allowing faithful and devotees to pay their respects. A mourning procession will commence at 1:30 pm, moving from the Basilica Church to Lourdes Church along the Thrissur Swaraj Round, symbolizing the city’s collective tribute to a shepherd who touched countless lives. Public viewing will continue until the laying-to-rest ceremony at the Thrissur Lourdes Cathedral Church at 5 pm.
The second and final phase of the funeral service will begin at 9:30 am on Monday, September 22, at Lourdes Cathedral Church, where Holy Communion will be offered as part of the sacred rites. At 1 pm, the body will be taken to the “Home of Love” Generalate of the Kristudassi Sanyasini Community in Kottuli, Kozhikode, a testament to Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s lifelong commitment to nurturing faith and service among religious communities. The closing rites of the service will be conducted at 6 pm.
In honor of the Archbishop, all institutions under the Thrissur Archdiocese will remain closed on Monday to allow the faithful to participate in the ceremonies. In a special tribute, the Archdiocese has requested that devotees consider donating saris or other fabrics in place of flower garlands; these donations will subsequently be used to support those in need, reflecting the Archbishop’s enduring legacy of charity and compassion.
The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy has left an indelible mark on the Syro-Malabar Church and the faithful of Kerala. The planned funeral ceremonies provide an opportunity for clergy, religious communities, and the public to honor a life dedicated to service, spirituality, and pastoral leadership.