Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa is a distinguished leader, revered orator, and erudite scholar within the Mar Thoma Church. His unwavering commitment to the Church’s mission and his visionary approach have made him a cherished mentor, particularly to the children and youth of the Mar Thoma community.

Born on August 16, 1953, to K.C. Uthuppu and Sosamma of Kanjirathara, Manganam, Kottayam, he was raised in a devout household that nurtured his faith. His early involvement in the Akhila Kerala Balajanasakhyam, Asia’s largest children’s organization, instilled a deep sense of public service and social responsibility.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa pursued his education with dedication, completing his schooling at Muttambalam Govt. L.P. School and Kottayam M.T. Seminary High School, followed by collegiate studies at CMS College and Baselios College in Kottayam. Graduating from Mar Thoma Theological Seminary, he was ordained as a Semmash (Deacon) on May 31, 1980, and as a Kaseessa (Clergy) on June 28, 1980. He further enriched his theological knowledge with advanced studies in Christian Education at Princeton Theological Seminary and Boston University, which deepened his visionary outlook and theological insights.

Throughout his pastoral journey, he served with distinction across multiple parishes, where he was known as a compassionate and effective priest. Recognized for his exceptional leadership, he was consecrated as a Ramban on February 11, 2005, and later elevated to Episcopa on May 14, 2005. His ministry spans several dioceses, including Chengannur-Mavelikkara, Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam, Mumbai, Delhi, Adoor, and Kottayam-Kochi. In January 2024, he began a new chapter of service as the sixth Diocesan Bishop of the North American Diocese.

A hallmark of his ministry is his unwavering dedication to uplifting the marginalized and advocating for social justice. He has been a strong advocate for the rights of transgender individuals and Dalits in India, offering a compassionate Christian response to their struggles. His organizational talents are evident in initiatives like the Children’s Maramon and the Global Mar Thoma Women’s Meet, commemorating the centenaries of the Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam and Mar Thoma Suvishesha Sevika Sangham.

Beyond his ecclesiastical duties, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa is deeply engaged in socio-political spheres, championing democratic values and celebrating diversity. His significant contributions extend to roles within the Mar Thoma Church’s Socio-political Commission and leadership in renowned institutions like Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, SHIATS University, the Bible Society of India Delhi Auxiliary, and Dharmajyothi Vidyapeet Theological Seminary.

He continues to influence as a member of the World Council of Churches’ Executive and Central Committees and serves on the central council of the Bible Society of India. Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa’s legacy is marked by his steadfast commitment to empowering the Church from its grassroots, guided by the motto “Lighted to Lighten,” ensuring that the Church remains resilient, relevant, and an enduring light in the world.