The Syrian Christian community in Kerala, India, is a group with a long and rich heritage, one that dates back to the 1st century when St. Thomas the Apostle is believed to have brought Christianity to the shores of India. However, this community, despite its shared Christian roots, has experienced a division that has lasted for over a century. The split between the Indian Orthodox Church (Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church) and the Jacobite Church (Jacobite Syrian Christian Church) is a tale of theological, ecclesiastical, and political disagreements that continue to shape the religious and cultural landscape of Kerala today.
The Origins of the Division
The roots of the conflict lie in disputes over church governance and spiritual authority. Both the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches trace their origins back to the early Christian community in Kerala, but they differ fundamentally in their approach to leadership. The primary issue at stake is ecclesiastical authority—specifically, the relationship with foreign patriarchs.
- Indian Orthodox Church: Advocates for autocephaly, meaning that the Malankara Church should be self-governing without the oversight of any foreign patriarch. This was the position taken in 1912, when the Malankara Syrian Christian Association declared its independence from the Patriarch of Antioch. The Indian Orthodox Church views local governance as essential to preserving the cultural identity of Kerala’s Christian community.
- Jacobite Church: On the other hand, the Jacobite Church maintains a deep allegiance to the Patriarch of Antioch. They believe that the Antiochian patriarch is the rightful leader of the Syrian Orthodox Church globally and that the Malankara Church must remain connected to this broader spiritual authority to maintain its apostolic heritage and theological continuity.
This theological and governance divide was intensified by disputes over church properties and leadership, ultimately resulting in two separate factions with distinct claims to legitimacy. What began as an ecclesiastical disagreement soon became a matter of social, legal, and political contention, with both factions battling for control over church buildings, schools, and other assets.
The Impact of the Division on Kerala’s Syrian Christian Community
The division has not been limited to theological debates or legal battles. It has had profound consequences on the social fabric of Kerala’s Syrian Christian community. Families, friends, and entire congregations have been split by this divide, and the rift is often visible during significant life events such as weddings, funerals, and other church celebrations. The question of which faction to support often leads to painful decisions that affect relationships and communal life.
The tension has also spilled into Kerala’s political arena. Political parties have at times aligned themselves with one faction over the other, leading to further polarization. The church’s influence in local elections has made the religious divide a powerful force in shaping political dynamics, with both sides leveraging their support bases to gain political favor.
Legal Struggles Over Church Properties
One of the most bitter and enduring aspects of the Indian Orthodox-Jacobite split has been the legal battles over church properties. These disputes have reached the Indian courts, where both factions have sought to assert their rights over church buildings, schools, and other institutions. The Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court of India have heard numerous cases regarding the ownership of these properties, with rulings that have often deepened the rift.
These legal conflicts are not just about real estate; they are about identity, control, and the future of the church. Both sides see the assets as critical to maintaining the viability and influence of their factions, and the stakes are high. Yet, despite the continued legal struggles, both churches remain committed to their faith and the role they play in Kerala’s Christian community.
Attempts at Reconciliation
Despite the deep divisions, there have been attempts at reconciliation over the years. Religious leaders from both factions have sought to foster dialogue and healing. The Kerala High Court has intervened at times, attempting to mediate disputes, and various ecumenical bodies have facilitated talks. However, the road to reconciliation is a difficult one, as the historical wounds run deep, and each side remains committed to their theological stance.
The younger generation of believers, however, has shown signs of hope. Many young people in Kerala are less tied to the old theological and ecclesiastical disputes. They are more likely to view the division as a hindrance to the unity of the Christian community. With the rise of social media and global connectivity, the younger generation is engaging in conversations that promote unity, understanding, and a broader sense of Christian identity that transcends denominational boundaries.
The Role of Global Christian Communities and Ecumenism
Both the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches are part of the larger global Christian community, especially the Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox traditions. While they maintain distinct identities, they share a common theological heritage and a commitment to the ancient Christian faith. Global ecumenical movements, such as the World Council of Churches, have worked to foster unity among Christian denominations worldwide, and this effort extends to the two Kerala-based factions as well.
In these ecumenical movements, leaders from different Christian traditions have attempted to bridge the theological divides, advocating for unity in the face of shared Christian values. The challenge remains, however, for the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches to reconcile their theological differences and work together for the greater good of the Christian community.
The Hope for a Unified Future
Despite the centuries of tension and division, there is hope for the future. The deep commitment to Christian faith shared by both factions provides a foundation for reconciliation. The belief in the unity of the Church as one body in Christ is a principle that both sides hold dear, even if they currently differ in their interpretation of how that unity should be expressed.
Many leaders within both the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches have called for a return to the roots of Christian unity. Mutual respect, dialogue, and a willingness to compromise on leadership and governance issues will be essential for healing the divide. The younger generation, with its global perspective and desire for peace, offers a promising path forward. Their vision for the future—one that emphasizes shared values and common goals—could be the key to lasting unity.
Conclusion: A Journey Toward Lasting Peace
While the divide between the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches remains deep, there is always hope for peace. As both sides seek reconciliation, it is important to remember that their shared faith in Christ is a powerful force for unity. In the end, the hope for permanent peace lies in the willingness of both factions to embrace forgiveness, understanding, and a renewed commitment to the message of love and grace that lies at the heart of Christianity. By focusing on what unites them—rather than what divides them—the Indian Orthodox and Jacobite Churches have the potential to rebuild a stronger, more unified Christian community in Kerala, one that reflects the peace and love of Christ.
Through prayer, dialogue, and a renewed commitment to the gospel, there is hope for a future where the wounds of the past are healed, and the Christian community in Kerala can stand together in faith and unity, a beacon of hope for the world.