Catholicos Baselios Thomas I, head of Jacobite Syrian Church, passes away

The Catholicos of Jacobite Syrian Church, Baselios Thomas I, passed away at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness. His body was taken to various churches for the public to pay their respects before the funeral mass on Friday. A 14-day mourning period will be observed at churches and institutions run by the Jacobite Syrian Church. Baselios Thomas I led the Church during challenging times and his death was mourned by various dignitaries and leaders. The funeral mass and concluding prayers are scheduled for Saturday.