Our Diocesan Bishop
Our Diocesan Bishop
Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa is a revered leader, eloquent orator, and distinguished scholar of the Mar Thoma Church. His unwavering commitment to the Church’s divine mission and visionary leadership have made him a beloved mentor to generations of children and youth.
Born on August 16, 1953, to K.C. Uthuppu and Sosamma of the Kanjirathara family in Manganam, Kottayam, he was raised in a devout Christian home. His early involvement in the Akhila Kerala Balajanasakhyam—Asia’s largest children’s organization—nurtured his passion for public service and social engagement.
He pursued his education at Muttambalam Govt. L.P. School and MT Seminary High School, followed by collegiate studies at CMS College and Baselios College, Kottayam. He completed theological training at the Mar Thoma Theological Seminary, Kottayam, and was ordained as a Semmash (Deacon) on May 31, 1980, and as a Kaseessa (Clergy) on June 28, 1980. He later earned advanced degrees in Christian Education from Princeton Theological Seminary and Boston University, enriching both his theological depth and pastoral vision.
Throughout his ministry, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos served faithfully in various parishes, widely respected for his compassionate and effective pastoral care. He was consecrated Ramban on February 11, 2005, and ordained Episcopa on May 14, 2005. Over the years, he has led several dioceses—including Chengannur–Mavelikkara, Thiruvananthapuram–Kollam, Mumbai, Delhi, Adoor, and Kottayam–Kochi—with distinction. In January 2024, he was appointed the sixth Diocesan Bishop of the North American Diocese, marking a new chapter of leadership and service.
His ministry is defined by a strong commitment to justice, inclusion, and the empowerment of the marginalized. He has been a bold advocate for the rights of Dalits and transgender communities in India, shaping the Church’s response to their struggles. His visionary leadership is reflected in landmark initiatives such as the Children’s Maramon and the Global Mar Thoma Women’s Meet, commemorating the centenaries of the Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam and the Mar Thoma Suvishesha Sevika Sangham, respectively.
Beyond his ecclesiastical role, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos engages actively in socio-political spheres, upholding democratic values and promoting inclusivity. He has served on the Socio-political Commission of the Mar Thoma Church and held leadership roles in key institutions including Christian Medical College, Ludhiana; SHIATS University; Bible Society of India (Delhi Auxiliary); and Dharmajyothi Vidyapeet Theological Seminary.
He continues to serve as a member of the Executive and Central Committees of the World Council of Churches and the Central Council of the Bible Society of India. His enduring legacy is one of grassroots empowerment, theological clarity, and a deep commitment to ensuring the Church remains relevant and resilient in a changing world.
