The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church holds a significant position as one of the 22 Eastern (Oriental) Catholic Churches that are in full communion with Rome. It stands as the second largest Eastern Catholic Church following the Ukrainian Church and holds the distinction of being the largest among the Saint Thomas Christian (Nazrani) denominations, boasting a following of 4.6 million believers. This sui juris Church is governed by the Synod of Bishops, led by the Major Archbishop. Notably, owing to its profound spirituality and the substantial number of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, the Syro-Malabar Church is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic Catholic communities across the globe.
The Syro-Malabar Church, also known as the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, traces its origins back to the apostolic work of St. Thomas, one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus. St. Thomas arrived in Kodungalloor, Kerala, in 52 A.D. and spread the Christian faith throughout the region, establishing seven and a half Ecclesial Communities in what is now known as Kerala. His martyrdom took place at Little Mount near Mylapore, Madras, by a Hindu priest on July 3rd, A.D. 72.
