Bishop Azariah has an important place in church history for two reasons: as the first bishop to be a native of India, his appointment marked the end of foreign missionary work and the beginning of indigenous leadership. He also gave momentum to the ecumenical movement to unite the Protestant churches of India. He was a vicar’s son who was zealous in promoting church growth and a strong advocate of ecumenism. Two years after his death, the United Church of South India was formed among Anglicans, Congregationalists, Methodists and Presbyterians. Further efforts continue today, in hopes of uniting North India, South India and the Mar Thoma Church. (Episcopal Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music)
