Mon May 19 12:52:37 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Both the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church are facing internal turmoil. In the Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Zacharias Mar Aprem’s criticism of church leadership has led to an emergency synod to consider disciplinary action. Meanwhile, in the Jacobite Church, the reappointment of Geevarghese Mar Coorilos as Metropolitan has caused the resignation of Geevarghese Mar Barnabas and sparked criticism from a section of the laity, who believe the move was politically motivated.

**News Article:**

**Internal Strife Rocks Malankara Churches as Dissent Brews Within Orthodox and Jacobite Folds**

**KOTTAYAM, INDIA – May 19, 2025** – The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church are grappling with significant internal unrest as controversial statements and leadership decisions ignite discord among clergy and laity.

Tensions are high within the Orthodox Church following Metropolitan Zacharias Mar Aprem’s public condemnation of church leadership, whom he described as “captors of parishes.” These remarks have triggered outrage within the hierarchy, leading to an emergency synod scheduled for May 23rd to determine potential disciplinary action against the Metropolitan. Church sources indicate the leadership views Mar Aprem’s statements as a serious breach of discipline. Adding to the turmoil, a protest march was held at the Church headquarters, with faithful demanding Mar Aprem’s removal. Speculation also exists that he may be considering aligning with another Malankara Church. The controversy stems from Mar Aprem’s claim that Orthodox Church leaders asked him to take control of Jacobite churches, a request he says he refused.

Meanwhile, the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church faces its own challenges following the reappointment of Geevarghese Mar Coorilos as Metropolitan of the Niranam diocese. This decision prompted the resignation of Geevarghese Mar Barnabas, who served as Assistant Metropolitan for 15 years. A faction of the Jacobite laity has voiced sharp criticism, alleging political influence in the reappointment. Paul Varghese, president of the Jacobite Almaya Forum, claims Coorilos’ return to ecclesiastical power was motivated by his recent decline in favor with leftist politicians. Church officials have declined further comment on the matter.

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