Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, Iraqi patriarch (d. 2014)

The spiritual leader of millions worldwide, His Holiness Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, known to many by his birth name Sanharib Iwas, served as the 122nd Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East. From his enthronement in 1980 until his passing in 2014, he was the Supreme Head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, a venerable ancient Christian tradition with roots tracing back to the earliest days of Christianity.

Early Life and Journey to the Patriarchate

Born Sanharib Iwas on April 21, 1931, in Mosul, Iraq, he would eventually ascend to the highest spiritual office within his church. His early ecclesiastical journey saw him steeped in theological study and dedicated service. He gained significant exposure to the broader Christian world when he served as an observer at the pivotal Second Vatican Council, a landmark event in the history of the Roman Catholic Church that also fostered dialogue among diverse Christian traditions. This experience undoubtedly shaped his understanding of ecumenism and inter-church relations. Before his election as Patriarch, he served in significant roles, including as the metropolitan bishop of Mosul and later as the archbishop of Baghdad and Basra, overseeing important dioceses within the Syriac Orthodox Church's global communion.

A Visionary Patriarchate and Ecumenical Legacy

On September 14, 1980, Mor Severios Zakka, as he was then known, was enthroned as Patriarch in the sacred setting of St. George's Patriarchal Cathedral in Damascus, Syria. Following the ancient tradition for the head of the church, he adopted the name Ignatius, thereby becoming Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, spiritually linking himself to Saint Ignatius of Antioch, an early and revered Church Father. He succeeded Ignatius Ya`qub III, continuing a line of succession that spans centuries.

His 34-year patriarchate was characterized by a profound commitment to ecumenical dialogue, making him a highly respected figure across Christian denominations. He served as a president of the World Council of Churches, a testament to his influence and dedication to fostering unity and understanding among diverse Christian traditions. Beyond his ecumenical efforts, Patriarch Zakka I Iwas was a prolific author, sharing his theological insights and spiritual wisdom through numerous writings. His leadership also saw significant institutional developments within the Syriac Orthodox Church, including the establishment of a monastic seminary. This initiative was vital for nurturing future generations of clergy and preserving the rich monastic tradition integral to Eastern Christianity.

His Holiness also engaged in significant inter-church relations. A memorable moment was his meeting with Pope John Paul II during the Roman Pontiff's historic visit to Syria in 2001, a meeting that symbolized warming relations and mutual respect between the two ancient churches. Throughout his reign, he installed numerous metropolitans, including His Beatitude Baselios Thomas I as the Catholicos of India, further strengthening the church's global reach and its presence in the ancient Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. In 2005, the Syriac Orthodox Church and its faithful around the world celebrated his Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of his dedicated service as Patriarch.

Final Years and Enduring Impact

Towards the end of his life, His Holiness Ignatius Zakka I Iwas was admitted to a hospital in Germany for angioplasty on February 20, 2014. A month later, on March 21, 2014, he peacefully passed away. His legacy endures through his tireless efforts for Christian unity, his contributions to theological scholarship, and the spiritual guidance he provided to the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church during a period of significant global change. He remains a revered figure, remembered for his wisdom, piety, and unwavering dedication to his faith and his people.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Ignatius Zakka I Iwas?
His Holiness Ignatius Zakka I Iwas served as the 122nd Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, the supreme head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, from 1980 until his death in 2014.
What is the significance of the name 'Ignatius' for Syriac Orthodox Patriarchs?
It is a time-honored tradition for the Patriarchs of Antioch to adopt the name 'Ignatius,' linking them spiritually and historically to Saint Ignatius of Antioch, one of the earliest and most revered bishops of the ancient Christian city.
What was his involvement in ecumenical dialogue?
Patriarch Zakka I Iwas was a prominent figure in inter-Christian relations, serving as a president of the World Council of Churches and actively promoting unity and understanding among various Christian denominations. He even attended the Second Vatican Council as an observer before his patriarchate.
What notable achievements marked his patriarchate?
During his reign, he established a significant monastic seminary, met with Pope John Paul II in Syria in 2001, and oversaw the installation of numerous metropolitans, including Baselios Thomas I as the Catholicos of India, solidifying the global reach and internal structure of the Syriac Orthodox Church.
When and how did he pass away?
His Holiness Ignatius Zakka I Iwas passed away on March 21, 2014, in Germany, following medical treatment for angioplasty.