The Catholicate

Introduction The word 'Catholicos' means "the general head" or "general bishop". It can be considered as equivalent to "universal Bishop". This title and rank is much more ancient than the title Patriarch in the church.
In the ministry of the early church there were only three ranks namely; Episcopos (Bishop), Priest and Deacon. By the end of the third century or by the beginning of the fourth century certain bishops of certain important cities or provincial capitals in the Roman empire gained pre-eminence than other bishops and they came to be known as Metropolitans. The Ecumenical councils of the fourth century recognized the authority of these Metropolitans.
Historical Catholicos
Learn about the spiritual leaders who have guided our church through history, each contributing to the rich legacy of the Malankara Orthodox tradition.

H.H. Baselios Paulos I
1912–1913
The First Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Geevarghese I
1925–1928
The Second Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Geevarghese II
1929–1964
The Third Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Augen I
1964–1975
The Fourth Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Mathews I
1975–1991
The Fifth Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Mathews II
1991–2005
The Sixth Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Didymos I
2005-2010
The Seventh Catholicos of the East in Malankara

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Paulose II
2010–2021
The Eighth Catholicos of the East in Malankara
