The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) joins the Church, theological institutions, ecumenical partners, and countless friends in mourning the passing of Rev Dr. B. Mohan Larbeer, an eminent theologian, visionary educator, committed ecumenist, and tireless advocate for justice and human dignity.
Rev Dr. Larbeer’s life was a remarkable testimony to the inseparable relationship between faith and social responsibility. Throughout his ministry and academic leadership, he consistently demonstrated that theology must emerge from the lived realities of people, especially those who experience marginalisation, oppression, and poverty. His theological vision was deeply rooted in the struggles and aspirations of the vulnerable, making him a prophetic voice in both Church and society.
As Principal of Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary, Madurai,he inspired generations of students to understand theological education not merely as an academic pursuit but as a transformative journey of discipleship, justice, and service. Under his leadership, theological formation was closely connected to the concerns of ordinary people, equipping future ministers to engage courageously with issues of human dignity, liberation, and social transformation.
Rev Dr. Larbeer’s contribution extended to the wider ecumenical theological community through his service as Secretary of the Board of Theological Education of the Senate of Serampore College (BTESSC). In this significant national role, he helped shape theological education across India and South Asia by promoting academic excellence, ecumenical cooperation, contextual theological reflection, and ministerial formation.
The ecumenical movement in India has lost a distinguished leader whose life reflected the values of inclusion, compassion, and prophetic witness. Yet, his legacy continues through the countless students he mentored, the communities he served, and the theological vision he bequeathed to the Church.
As we give thanks to God for the life and ministry of Rev Dr. B. Mohan Larbeer, we pray that his witness will continue to inspire churches, theological institutions, and future generations to pursue a faith that stands with the oppressed, protects human dignity, and bears faithful witness to the liberating love of Christ.
The National Council of Churches in India extends its heartfelt condolences to Rev Dr Margret Kalaiselvi and Ms Manju, the bereaved family members, colleagues, former students, and all whose lives were touched by his ministry.
May the soul of Rev Dr. B. Mohan Larbeer rest in God’s eternal peace, and may his memory remain a blessing to the Church and society.
Rev Dr Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
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