Philipose Mar Chrysostom, former head of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church and the longest-serving bishop in India, died of age-related ailments on Wednesday, a church spokesperson said. He was 104.

Mar Chrysostom had been discharged from a medical college hospital in Thiruvalla on Tuesday. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Kumbanad near Thiruvalla at 1.15am, the spokesperson said.

Mar Chrysostom had celebrated his 104th birthday a week ago on April 27 while undergoing treatment at Medical College Hospital. His funeral will be held on Thursday.

A religious dignitary with a genuine humanitarian outlook and global vision, Mar Chrysostom was awarded the Padma Bhushan by President Ram Nath Kovind in 2018.

Mar Chrysostom is credited with implementing and formulating many projects to improve the social, economic and cultural condition of the poor and deprived.

Born on April 27, 1918, in Karthikappally, he had inherited the missionary zeal from his father. After obtaining graduation from Union Christian College, Alwaye, he was attracted to missionary work and ordained as Deacon of the Church in 1944.

Nine years later, in 1953, he was consecrated as Bishop. Mar Chrysostom became the Metropolitan of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church in 1999. He was a bishop for 68 years.

Popular for his pleasant demeanour, the bishop was known for his touching yet humorous speeches. Many books and documentaries have been published on his speeches.

Church officials said Mar Chrysostom’s mortal remains would be interred in the specially constructed tomb near the St Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Thiruvalla, located on the SCS Campus at 3pm on Thursday.

The mortal remains are currently kept at an auditorium on the SCS Campus for viewing. Because of Covid-related restrictions, the Church has requested the followers to watch the live streaming of the funeral service.

Condolence messages poured in.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “Saddened by the demise of His Grace The Most Rev. Dr Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan. He will be remembered for his rich theological knowledge and many efforts to remove human suffering. Condolences to the members of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church.”