Greetings to HH. Pope Leo XIV

The Diocese of North America of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church has extended its prayerful congratulations and warm greetings to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. The Diocese affirms that this significant moment to renew collective Christian witness centred on unity, peace, and reconciliation in a world increasingly marked by geopolitical conflict and social fragmentation.

Reflecting on the Papal transition, the Diocese underscored the importance of ecumenical solidarity. “We celebrate this moment as a call to unity, peace, and faithful witness in a world challenged by war,” the statement read.

In November 2024, the delegates of the Episcopal Synod of the Mar Thoma Church met Pope Francis. During the visit, Pope Francis emphasised the theological and ecclesial significance of synodality and ecumenism as fundamental for effective Christian witness in the contemporary world.

The Mar Thoma Church, widely regarded as a “bridge church” for its dialogical approach, maintains a longstanding membership in global and regional ecumenical organisations including World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA). Moreover, it cherishes active ecclesial relationships and dialogues with Christian communions, including the Old Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, the Thozhiyur Church, the Church of South India (CSI), the Church of North India (CNI), and the Syrian Orthodox Church.