The Syro-Malabar Church yesterday remembered Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil with memorial Masses that marked the 41st day since his death. All parishes of the Oriental Catholic Church organized Masses and special prayers for its former leader, who died of a heart attack while offering Mass on April 1. Oriental Churches in India traditionally conduct special services on the 41st day after a person’s death. Retired Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy of Trichur led the main commemorative service at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Kochi. Some 2,000 people, including bishops, attended the event. Archbishop Thoomkuzhy remembered Cardinal Vithayathil as a role model for living Church teachings without compromise during conflict and confrontation. Bishop Bosco Puthur, the Church’s interim administrator, said the cardinal resorted to prayers to heal wounds and relieve pain. Auxiliary Bishop Thomas Chakiath of Ernakulam offered divine prayers for the dead at the cardinal’s tomb inside the basilica. Later, the Church’s laity commission organized a seminar entitled “Cardinal Mar Vithayathil – Life and Vision” at the nearby Renewal Centre. Commission chairperson Bishop Mathew Arackal of Kanjirapally called Cardinal Vithayathil a “beacon of faith” who influenced people across religious and political divides. “Kerala society listened to him eagerly. He was a constant source of inspiration not only for the Church, but for other communities also,” Bishop Arackal added. Related reports Tearful adieu to Cardinal VithayathilCardinal Vithayathil Seeks Patriarchal Status For His Oriental Church IB14195