Historic Communion Celebration Between Mar Thoma and Old Catholic Churches Held in Bern

The historic communion between the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church and the Old Catholic Churches of the Union of Utrecht was celebrated in Bern on October 5-6, 2024, marking a significant milestone following the signing of the Thiruvalla Agreement in Kerala, India, earlier this year.

The celebration commenced with an academic colloquium titled "Committed to Communion" at the University of Bern, bringing together distinguished religious scholars and church leaders. The colloquium, organized by the Institute for Christian Catholic Theology, addressed crucial theological and practical aspects of the newly established communion between the two churches.

Key speakers at the event included PD Joseph Mar Ivanios, Dr. Mathews George Chunakara, Prof. Dr. Karl Pinggéra, Prof. em. Dr. Franz Segbers, Prof. Dr. Angela Berlis, and Prof. Dr. Georgiana Huian. The discussions centered on fundamental questions about contemporary Christian identity in both European and Indian contexts, exploring the spiritual resources and traditions that each church brings to this new relationship.

The celebrations culminated in a festive Eucharist on October 6 at the Church of St. Peter and Paul. The service was led by prominent church leaders including Bishop Frank Bangerter of the Old Catholic Church of Switzerland, Archbishop Bernd Wallet of Utrecht (President of the IBC), and Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, the Presiding Bishop of the Mar Thoma Church, Thiruvalla. They were joined by several bishops from both the Mar Thoma Church and the Old Catholic Churches of the Union of Utrecht.

This celebration represents a significant step forward in ecumenical relations, bringing together two churches with rich historical traditions in a formal communion. The event, which was open to the public and free of charge, symbolizes the commitment of both churches to fostering deeper understanding and cooperation in their shared Christian mission.

Further details about the colloquium, including the full program and related materials, are now available through the Institute of Old Catholic Theology's website.