A Life of Silent Service: Remembering Fr. Thomas Geevarghese

OCP News Service – 09/10/2025

Global: The life of Fr. Thomas Geevarghese, affectionately known as Fr. Subin, a founding member of Orthodoxy Cognate PAGE, was one of faith, humility, and dedication, a quiet yet powerful witness to the love of God and the life of the Church.

After completing his Bachelor’s in Engineering and Master’s in Business Administration from the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), one of the leading universities in Kerala, Fr. Subin began his career in a prominent IT firm in India. Yet, even while immersed in his professional life, his heart remained deeply rooted in the Orthodox faith and in the life of the Church. The vision of creating a movement that could bring together Orthodox Christians from across the world began to take shape in his mind. With his friends, he helped to establish the Orthodoxy Cognate PAGE (OCP). From its very beginning, he played a crucial role in structuring, organizing, and guiding this initiative inspiring many to join the mission and using technology wisely as a tool for strengthening the witness of the Church.

When he chose the path of unmarried priesthood, his family initially opposed his decision, but he stood firm in his divine calling, and in time, they lovingly accepted his choice. Answering the divine call to priesthood, Fr. Subin left behind his career and entered the Madras Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Church (Indian Orthodox Church). There he joined the Community of St. Dionysius (CSD), a monastic fellowship devoted to prayer and service. Following his ordination to the priesthood, his thirst for learning did not cease. He went on to pursue an M.A. in Christianity from Madras University, deepening his theological understanding and spiritual insight. Later, he also completed a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), reflecting his enduring compassion for people and his commitment to serve society with love and humility.

Under the guidance of the diocesan Metropolitan, he was sent to serve in the Dindigul Mission, historically connected to the Western Rite of the Malankara Orthodox Church. As a result of this mission service During his time there in Dindigul, he played an instrumental role in rediscovering and preserving important aspects of this forgotten heritage. Among his many contributions were the rediscovery of a Tabalitha (altar stone) sanctified by St. Gregorios of Parumala, which he reverently presented to the Madras Diocese. He also worked closely with the Church leadership in studying and reviving the liturgical traditions of the early Western Rite community, a task that combined his historical insight with his deep spiritual devotion.

In addition to his pastoral and organizational work, Fr. Subin was also a thoughtful writer and apologist for the Orthodox faith. Writing under the pen name “Abded Nuhro”; a name known only to a few, he authored numerous articles on theological and ecclesiastical topics. Many of his writings firmly addressed the so called “Reunion Movement” of 1930, through which a group led by Mar Ivanios entered into communion with the Roman Catholic Church, forming what is now the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Fr. Subin consistently clarified in his writings and sermons that this event was not a “re-unite” but rather a unite movement, a new union, not a restoration and often referred to it as an act of sheep-stealing by Rome on Indian soil.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, despite his failing health, he worked tirelessly to reach out to those in need, helping families, supporting seminary students, and standing by anyone who sought assistance. His service was quiet, his generosity unseen, but his impact was profound. Despite these, Fr. Subin was never one to seek attention. He helped countless people quietly, never announcing his kindness. His life reflected the words of the Lord:

Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.-St. Mathew 6:3

Beyond theological discourse, Fr. Subin was a bridge builder among people. He maintained close and genuine friendships across all denominations within the Orthodox Church and beyond. His ability to connect hearts transcended ecclesiastical boundaries, he nurtured relationships with warmth, constant communication, and sincere love. He made every effort to keep these friendships alive, ensuring that the bonds of faith and fellowship remained strong. As a result, he built and sustained a vast and enduring circle of friends spread across the globe, who continue to cherish his memory and spirit of unity.

Even in times of illness, Fr. Subin never withdrew from his calling. He continued to serve Orthodoxy Cognate PAGE as a senior advisor and head of its Charity Mission, offering guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. He remained a pillar of support — helping to connect people, discerns important decisions, and carry forward the mission he had once helped to build.

Fr. Subin’s life stands as a model for all who wish to follow Christ through sacrifice and faithfulness. He endured physical suffering with grace, never allowing it to diminish his love for God or his care for His flock. Many found in him a true shepherd — one who strengthened them in their Orthodox faith, gently guided those who had fallen away, and showed deep respect and love toward all Orthodox hierarchs and traditions.

At just 47 years of age, Fr. Thomas Geevarghese completed his earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy that continues to speak through the lives he touched and the mission he helped to shape. To all of us at Orthodoxy Cognate PAGE, he remains not merely a founder, but a brother and a spiritual friend — a man whose humility, wisdom, and faith continue to inspire.
Go in Peace our Father

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7

Source:

OCP News Service