About Auxiliary Bishop

Early Life and Family Background

Mar Alex Tharamangalam (Alexander Tharamangalam Luke), born on April 20, 1958, is a native of Moozhoor village within the Pala Diocese. He was the son of the late Luke and Annakutty Tharamangalam and was raised alongside his siblings, Mr. Joy (Joseph) and the late Mr. Mathewkutty.

Education and Seminary Formation

His educational journey commenced at local institutions, including Moozhoor L.P. School and UP School Alakode, followed by high school in Alakode. Mar Alex attended Thalassery Minor Seminary from 1973 to 1976. During this period, he pursued a Pre-degree course at Nirmalagiri College. His Major Seminary formation was at St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, from 1976 to 1982.

Ordination and Further Studies

Mar Alex Tharamangalam was ordained to the priesthood on January 1, 1983, by Mar Sebastian Vallopilly. Following his ordination, he served in various pastoral roles before pursuing further studies. He obtained a Bachelor's in Philosophy and Theology from Paurastya Vidyapitam, Vadavathoor, followed by a Master's and Ph.D. from the Gregorian University in Rome.

Pastoral Assignments

Throughout his ministry, Mar Alex served in different capacities, including as Assistant Vicar in Nellickampoil, Udayagiri, and as vicar in Kunnamkai and Bedoor. He also served as Vicar in charge of Valillapuzha and then proceeded to Rome for higher studies. His assignments extended to Kamballoor and Bedoor parish as a vicar, later transitioning to serve as the Secretary to the Bishop in Thalasserry (1993-95).

Academic and Administrative Roles

Mar Alex Tharamangalam's contributions extended beyond pastoral duties. He served as a professor at Vadavathoor Seminary, eventually becoming its Vice Rector and later Rector. His administrative acumen led him to the Archbishop's House, where he served as Syncellus and Proto Syncellus, and finally as Vicar at Madathil parish.

Episcopal Ministry

Mar Alex Tharamangalam's dedication and leadership were recognized when he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Mananthavady on August 25, 2022. His Episcopal Ordination took place on November 1, 2022, marking a new chapter in his service to the Church. His motto is "That They All May Be One."