Keralam CM Satheesan appeals for unity among churches in State

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan along with Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, the Patriarch of Antioch, inaugurating a meeting held as part of the 150th anniversary celebrations of the Mulanthuruthy Synod at Puthencruz on Friday. BJP State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and actor Mammootty are seen. | Photo Credit: R.K. Nithin

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Friday (November 13, 2026) appealed for unity among churches in Keralam, assuring them that his government would support efforts to bring the warring factions together.

Addressing the 150th anniversary celebrations of the Synod of Mulanthuruthy, organised by the Jacobite Syrian Church at Puthencruz, he said that unity among churches could transform the State.

The Chief Minister made the appeal in the presence of Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and Supreme Head of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church, without directly referring to the long-standing dispute between the Jacobite Syrian Church and the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church over the ownership of several churches.

“Imagine the strength and power you would have if you came together. Then you could do a lot, including taking the message of Christ to more people, carrying out charitable works and building great institutions of love. I believe the State would also benefit greatly from such unity,” he said.

Actor Mammootty was presented with the Sreshta Bava Award, instituted in memory of the late Catholicos Baselios Thomas I, former head of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Mammootty said hatred prevailed in society in many forms in the present times and that people had to start making their enemies their friends to attain peace of mind. “When we wish peace to each other, enmity will dissolve,” he said.

Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph, the head of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church, Ministers Roji M. John and Anoop Jacob, and BJP State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar were among those who attended the function.

Published - November 14, 2026 07:00 am IST