The Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, commonly known as the Mar Thoma Church, is one of the most ancient Christian denominations in the world and traces its origins to the apostolic era. According to tradition, St. Thomas the Apostle (Mar Thoma in Syriac), a disciple of Jesus Christ, arrived on the Malabar Coast (present-day Kerala) in AD 52 and established the Christian Church in India. The region was historically known as Malankara, from which the Church derives its name.

Firmly rooted in biblical teachings, the Mar Thoma Church upholds an Episcopal tradition combined with a value-based democratic administrative system. It affirms faith in Jesus Christ, the incarnate God, and the Triune God as revealed through Him—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Church recognizes the Holy Bible as the foundation of its faith and doctrine and adheres to the Nicene Creed, formulated in alignment with the Scriptures.

The Mar Thoma Church cherishes its Oriental heritage and views Episcopacy as a divine gift. It is often referred to as a “bridge church” in the ecumenical world, due to its unique ability to blend Eastern liturgical traditions with Protestant theological insights.

The mission of the Church is to:

• Preserve and proclaim the divine doctrines revealed by Christ and taught by His apostles.
• Promote the spiritual growth of its members through the sacraments and the ministry of the Word.
• Participate in the soteriological mission of God—reconciling all things to Christ.

The Church is blessed with a strong leadership structure comprising the Metropolitan, Episcopas (Bishops), ordained clergy, and deacons. The Metropolitan serves as the Supreme Head of the Church. Notably, the laity are considered active participants in the priestly ministry, empowered by Christ through the Church to live and practice Christian teachings in all areas of life. Lay members are encouraged to take part in both spiritual ministry and administrative functions of the Church.

Currently, the Church is led by Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, the 22nd Malankara Metropolitan to hold the Apostolic Throne of St. Thomas. Under his guidance, the Church is served by 12 bishops and 1,184 clergy, organized into 14 dioceses. With a community of approximately 1.6 million members worldwide, the Church has a significant global presence. Its headquarters is located at SCS Campus, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India.