Mar Thoma Church in North America & Europe: History and Mission

The Mar Thoma Church in North America and Europe serves a vibrant community of faithful members who came to the continent for higher education and professional opportunities. Since the early 1970s, Mar Thoma families in New York, Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia, Dallas (USA), and Toronto (Canada) formed small prayer groups, laying the foundation for the Church’s growth in North America.

Establishment of Parishes

In 1976, the first official parish was established in New York. As the number of Mar Thoma families grew, additional parishes were organized across North America and Europe. To manage these communities effectively, the Church created a Zone under the Kottayam-Cochin Diocese in 1982, guided by the visionary leadership of Late Rt. Rev. Thomas Mar Athanasius Suffragan Metropolitan.

In 1988, this Zone was elevated to the Diocese of North America and Europe, with Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Suffragan Metropolitan (Valiya Thirumeni) as the Diocesan Bishop. Recognizing the Church’s growth, a resident bishop was appointed to oversee administration and missions, starting with Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus (1993–2000).

Leadership Over the Years

The Diocese continued to expand under successive bishops:

• Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos (2000–2008)
• Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan (2009–2015)
• Rt. Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa (2016–2023)

Currently, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa (2024–present) leads the Diocese with a mission to strengthen families, uplift marginalized communities, and advance the Church’s global outreach.

Mission and Community Outreach

The Diocese of North America and Europe is committed to serving local and global communities through initiatives such as:

• Mexico Mission
• Native American Mission
• Mission projects in India

The Diocese is also a member of the National Council of Churches (NCC), the largest ecumenical body in the United States. Today, it oversees over 80 parishes and congregations, each led by dedicated vicars serving their communities with faith and devotion.

Join Our Faith Community

Whether you are looking for a Mar Thoma Church near you or a welcoming faith community, the Diocese of North America and Europe provides a spiritual home filled with worship, fellowship, and service.

Learn more about our history, parishes, and missions at marthomanae.org.