Mar Thoma II – Apr 14 (1670-1686)

Mar Thoma II was the second Metropolitan of the Malankara Syrian Church from 1670 to 1686.He belonged to the Parampbil house, of the Pakalomattom family of Kuravilangad. He was the nephew of Mar Thoma I. He ascended the throne the Malankara Church, after the passing away Mar Thoma I. He was consecrated by Mar Thoma I and the Antiochian patriarchal delegate Mar Gregorios Abdul Jaleel who was the archbishop of Jerusalem.

By the time of Mar Thoma II, became the Metropolitan of Malankara in 1670, many of the Syriac practices were already reintroduced into Malankara Church. The use of western calendar, baptismal fonts and having pulpits are some of them. During his time priests were encouraged to marry. He preserved the faith and given leadership to its activities.

During his tenure four foreign bishops came to Kerala from Syria, Mar Gregorios Abdul Jaleel, Mar Anthroyos Bava, Eldho Mor Baselios and Mar Ivanios Episcopa. They could not return to Syria, due to the difficulties in travel.

Once on a visit to Niranam Church. Mar Thoma II was taking rest in the Pally Meda (balcony guest Room) of the St. Mary’s church in Niranam. There occurred a thunderstorm. Mar Thoma was struck by lightning. He passed away on 15^th April 1686. He was laid to rest inside Niranam St. Mary’s Orthodox Church.  One of the smaller altars is dedicates to St. Thomas and is also the shrine of Mar Thoma II.