MM

election as Moderator at the Nairobi Assembly was a great endorsement for his vision and
His
The Christocentric theology of Karl Barth, Reinhold Niebuhr, and Hendrik Kraemer helped
personality.
his ecumenical social thinking and missionary outlook. Jiirgen Moltmann was his contemporary
form
both of them benefited each other in streamlining their theological discourse.
and
and visions of Dr. Thomas who declared that the ecumenical vision of the Mar Thoma
Memories
involves universal brotherhood and solidarity with the weak, will always remain a source of
Church
not only to the Mar Thoma Church but the global Christian Church as well. He could not
inspiration
as a priest in the church though he had wished to become one in yester years. However, he did
serve
service than any priest by his active presence in the ecumenical endeavours of the church and
more
his lucid contributions to the understanding of theology.
by
priestly vision of the Mar Thoma Church is open. broad, and democratic. It is the tradition of the
The
Thoma Church to give ample role to the laity and to encourage their diversified ministries. Dr.
Mar
presence and suggestions in the committee for selecting ministerial candidates in the
Thomas‘s
were greatly honored. His contributions towards upholding the legacy of the Mar Thoma
church
in the ecumenical realm will always be appreciated. His contributions in the ecumenical arena
Church
CISRS and WCC were honored by all. Dr. Thomas‘ life partner Mrs. Pennamma, his sister Mrs.
of
and her husband Mr. A.K. Thampy complemented and enriched his visions and actions.
Sosamma,
holding to ethical integrity. Dr. Thomas had an impact on the perspectives of Dr. T.V. Philip
together
death is an irreparable loss to the church and society. Society must continue to discuss his
His
and standpoint. Such continuing thought processes and discussions will make an appropriate
thoughts
to his legacy during the birth centenary celebrations. As prophets of new humanity, let us march
tribute
in the divine plan to create a new church, a new humanity, and a newworld.
together
the birth centenary commemoration of Dr. M.M. Thomas make the dream ofthe Book of
May
of the apostle St. John that ‘I have seen the new heavens and the new earth,’ a real
Revelation
Dr. M.M. Thomas is the gift of the Mar Thoma Church to the world ecumenical movement.
and Dr. T.K. Thomas.
Dr. Thomas passed away on December 3,1996.
experience giving us all a new vision and sense of direction.