Tue Nov 05 14:54:13 UTC 2024: ## Jacobite Syrian Church Appoints Temporary Head Following Catholicos’ Death
**KOCHI, INDIA – November 5, 2024** – The Jacobite Syrian Christian Church has announced the appointment of Malankara Metropolitan Joseph Gregorios as temporary head of the church following the passing of Catholicos Baselios Thomas I last Thursday. This decision comes directly from the Patriarch of Antioch and head of the universal Syrian Orthodox Church, Ignatius Aphrem II, who has entrusted Gregorios with the powers previously held by the late Catholicos.
The Patriarch, who earlier this year designated Gregorios as the head of the Jacobite Church in India, has empowered him to convene and preside over the episcopal synod until a permanent successor is chosen.
This appointment provides stability to the church during this time of transition and ensures the continuation of its leadership. The search for a permanent successor to the Catholicos is expected to begin soon.
First Piper 