The Encyclical issued by His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymos I regarding the Independent Syrian Orthodox Church in America

His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I, Catholicos-Patriarch of the East, has issued an Encyclical confirming the spiritual relationship of St. James Syrian Orthodox Church of America- Los Angeles with the Orthodox Syrian Church of the East. 

No. 292 A/2008

In the blessed name of the Tri-une God, Self-existent,
Beginningless and Endless, Perfect in Being, (Glory be to Him)
Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Didymus I Catholicos of the East and
Malankara Metropolitan enthroned on the apostolic throne of St. Thomas

Apostolic Blessings to Very Reverend Chorepiscopo Dr. Joseph Tarzi, vicar, and the blessed faithful members of the St. James of Sarug Syrian Orthodox Church, Los Angles, California, USA

Dearly Beloved,

We pray that you are in good health and under the protection of our Lord and God Jesus Christ. We write this on the report regarding the unfortunate excommunication of your community by His Holiness Zakka I Iwas Patriarch of Antioch in 2007. We understand, recognize and pronounce that the excommunication lacks proper merit according to the canons of the Holy Church. Be comforted in knowing that you remain part of the Apostolic, Catholic and Orthodox Faith as members of the One Body of Christ.

We convey our concern for your spiritual and pastoral needs and are aware that since His Holiness separated you from his flock, His Grace Yuhanon Mar Meletius, Metropolitan of the Diocese of Trissur of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church,has maintained a pastoral relationship with your community.

As per your request and the recommendation of His Grace Yuhanon Mar Meletius Metropolitan, the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church held in February, 2008, has decided to extend the help of the Malankara Church through His Grace Yuhanon Mar Meletius Metropolitan to attend to your pastoral needs. We do not assign him as an administrator or ruler, but rather, to provide necessary assistance in spiritual matters.

May the Grace and Mercy of the God Almighty be with you, your families, your Children, and all your endeavors. May the prayers and intercessions of St. Mary, the Mother of God , St. Thomas Apostle to India, St. Gregorios and St. Dionysius, the saints of Malankara, and all the saints of the Holy Church be with you now and always.

Our Father who art in Heaven..........................

Baselios Marthoma Didymus I.

From Catholicate Aramana
Devalokam, Kottayam, Kerala, India
On September 10, 2008

PDF File


Source:

1. http://www.stjamessyriac.org/News/encyclical/encyclical.html
2. http://meletiusofthrissur.spaces.live.com/