Pope Leo XIV has advanced the sainthood cause of Bishop Matthew Makil (1851–1914), a pioneering leader of India’s Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, declaring him “Venerable” in recognition of his heroic virtue.
Newsroom (12/01/2023 4:41 PM, Gaudium Press) — At Gaudiumpress.ca, much has been written about the liturgical wars in the Syro-Malabar Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly diocese, however, now we can report some good news. On May 22 a decree was signed including two other Servants of God where Bishop Matthew Makil (1851–1914) was declared Venerable, bringing him one step closer to canonization.
A Pillar of the Syro-Malabar Church
Born in Manjoor, Kerala, Bishop Makil emerged as a key figure during a turbulent era for the Syro-Malabar Church, which had only recently (1887) been freed from Portuguese Latin-rite oversight by Pope Leo XIII. Appointed Vicar Apostolic of Kottayam in 1911, he became the first bishop to shepherd the Knanaya Catholic community—a unique Syro-Malabar group that traces its lineage to Mesopotamian migrants and practices endogamy (marriage within the community).
His leadership was marked by efforts to mediate tensions between the Knanaya (“southerners”) and the broader Syro-Malabar faithful (“northerners”), who both claim heritage from St. Thomas the Apostle. In a historic move, he successfully petitioned St. Pope Pius X to establish a separate Apostolic Vicariate of Kottayam for the Knanaya Catholics.
A Legacy of Education and Social Reform
Beyond his ecclesiastical leadership, Makil was a champion of women’s education, founding the Sisters of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1892 to educate girls—a radical initiative in 19th-century India. His congregation remains active today, continuing his mission of service and empowerment.
Path to Sainthood
The title “Venerable” confirms that Makil lived a life of exceptional holiness and virtue, paving the way for beatification—which requires a verified miracle attributed to his intercession. If canonized, he would join St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara and St. Alphonsa as one of Kerala’s most revered Catholic saints.
A Saint for a Divided Time?
Makil’s legacy is particularly relevant today as the Syro-Malabar Church faces internal divisions over liturgical unity. His example of pastoral wisdom, bridge-building, and dedication to education offers a model for reconciliation.
The Vatican’s recognition underscores the global impact of India’s Eastern Catholic traditions, affirming the Syro-Malabar Church’s rich history as it navigates modern challenges.
With this decree, Bishop Makil’s cause gains momentum, inspiring not just Kerala’s Catholics but the universal Church.
- Raju Hasmukh With inputs from Vatican News and Syro-Malabar Church sources
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