NEWSLETTER - St. Thomas Philadelphia
NEWSLETTER - St. Thomas Philadelphia
NEWSLETTER - St. Thomas Philadelphia
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www.stthomasphiladelphia.org Volume XVII Issue 1<br />
ST THOMAS INDIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH<br />
1009 UNRUH AVE, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19111<br />
stthomasunruh@gmail.com I Phone: 215.342.1500 I Fax: 215.342.2700<br />
What’s Inside?<br />
Vicar’s Message - Page 2<br />
Remembering Mar Barnabas—Page 3<br />
Parish News—Page 4<br />
Birthdays and Anniversaries—Page 5<br />
What Would Jesus Do? - Page 6<br />
Spiritual Organizations—Page 7<br />
Sunday School News—Page 8<br />
Secretaries Message—Page 8<br />
<strong>NEWSLETTER</strong><br />
JANUARY 2013<br />
JANUARY 2013 1
Vicar’s Message<br />
New Year, New Resolve and Firm in Christ<br />
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing<br />
move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the<br />
Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in<br />
vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58<br />
Years come, years go! Would that mean anything<br />
to us? For most people it is just another year. But there<br />
are many people who take seriously the beginning of a<br />
year, a month or even a day. The believer finds his/her<br />
faith active in everyday life. He/she will begin the day or<br />
an event trusting in the power of the Lord. I have seen<br />
such people making the difference in the community.<br />
Their faith and action commingled with divine power.<br />
A New Year is a new opportunity, and a new avenue<br />
wherein we need some new plans for the Lord. In the<br />
commercial world, we see directors set a plan for every<br />
year for their business. Our business is with the Lord and<br />
therefore we need to make some plans for the Lord. In<br />
that respect we must look at what <strong>St</strong>. Paul says to the Corinthians<br />
in the above verse. <strong>St</strong>and firm, don’t move and<br />
always give yourselves to the work of the Lord”.<br />
These are the three stages of success in life.<br />
“<strong>St</strong>and firm” is an essential quality for anyone in<br />
any profession. That shows one’s commitment and conviction.<br />
When people with no conviction come to the helm of<br />
affairs, they will not be able to do justice to the job. This is<br />
the reason often many of the spiritual or religious organizations<br />
lose its power and image. People uncommitted will<br />
not be able to stand for the cause for which they work.<br />
Mahatma Gandhi stood for non-violence and truth and he<br />
was willing to lose his profession, property or even life for<br />
that. At the point of being killed by a religious fanatic<br />
Gandhi called out his God praying, “Raam, Raam, Raam”.<br />
Even today the entire world admires and respect Mahatma<br />
for his life witness. If it is a modern man he will use<br />
the curse words when shot at. His convictions were rooted<br />
in God. Often convictions are not beyond selfishness and<br />
political interest. Whether in Church politics or party politics,<br />
basic interest we see is in one’s own selfish gain<br />
which is conditioned by financial or other material causes.<br />
Once selfish interest props up, the entire atmosphere<br />
changes. I have seen many political parties, parishes and<br />
families disintegrate when people with selfish interest try<br />
to come to leadership.<br />
“Don’t move” is the byproduct of ‘stand firm’. It<br />
may appear to be of the same meaning. The Malayalam<br />
translation looks very interesting, it says, “do not be<br />
shaken”. Being shaken by events and people around us is a<br />
common thing to happen. It is like a storm or hurricane<br />
that hits a house that is not built on firm foundation. Our<br />
Lord makes it clear in his<br />
sermon on the mount how<br />
such houses built on sand<br />
are destroyed. Adversity is<br />
a common thing to happen<br />
to all humans. But people<br />
who are well rooted in the<br />
Lord will not be shaken. Dr. Robert Schuler used to say in<br />
his speeches, “tough situation will not last but tough people<br />
will”. People who are afraid of adversity will budge<br />
against divine principles. Such people can be threatened or<br />
shaken easily. Where as, if one is sturdy to be unshaken,<br />
he/she can control the situation and achieving a lot.<br />
“Give yourselves to God” is rather a tough situation.<br />
In one of the prayers of ‘preparation for holy<br />
Qurbana’ (thooyobo), there is a prayer that the priest recites,<br />
“Lord may I be able to offer myself as a sacrifice”.<br />
While the bread and wine are set to offer as a sacrifice to<br />
the Lord, the priest becomes aware of the fact that he himself<br />
is being offered as a sacrifice. It is a huge decision that<br />
a priest has to make before the Lord prior to the Holy<br />
Qurbana. Only then the Lord will accept that priest’s offering<br />
in a true manner. Giving certain things to the Lord<br />
is an easy thing to do but when one has to offer himself/<br />
herself it is a serious matter. <strong>St</strong>. Paul in 2Timothy 4:6 says<br />
about his readiness to be ‘poured out as a sacrifice’ for the<br />
Lord. This is called the total commitment. We can hardly<br />
see anyone who is totally committed to the Lord.<br />
Finally the Apostle Paul assures us that our work<br />
in the Lord will never be in vain. Throughout the Bible we<br />
get this assurance from God. Those who work with and<br />
for God always will make the most profitable job. One day<br />
a friend of mine in a private conversation mentioned to me<br />
how much money he made in one year and at the end of<br />
the year nothing was left. He could not even give some<br />
money to the charity in the parish. I could not believe that<br />
a person who made so much money in a year feels that all<br />
his work was in vain. His life style was so bad and never<br />
had any place for the Lord. No wonder at the end of the<br />
year he sighs, “all I did was in vain”. This will happen to<br />
anyone who works without the Lord.<br />
It was my desire to obey the words of the Lord<br />
that came through Malachi 3:10 about giving Tithe to<br />
God’s temple. I gave more than the Tithe to the needy on<br />
different occasions. But I did not obey the Word of the<br />
Lord to bring the Tithe to the house of the Lord. The assurance<br />
of God to reward us by ‘opening the floodgates of<br />
heaven’ is for those who bring the Tithe to the house of<br />
the Lord. Many people in our parish asked me if it is<br />
enough that we give the Tithe to the poor. I had agreed to<br />
that. In fact I was misguiding them and I was misguided<br />
by them as well. Lately I understood one thing that the<br />
Word of God should not be read to my convenience. The<br />
Continued on Page 6<br />
JANUARY 2013 2 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
Mar Barnabas in Our Bold Memories<br />
Rev. Fr. M. K. Kuriakose<br />
His Grace Mathews Mar Barnabas was unique in many respects. The<br />
well known simplicity, humility, sincerity, innocence, deep spirituality and<br />
purity at heart, His Grace was always jutting out in memory. His Grace’s life<br />
was that of complete surrender to the Lord and to the Malankara Orthodox<br />
Church. His Grace’s hospitality was also well-known. No one leaves the aramana<br />
without earing something. Even when His Grace comes to our churches<br />
or homes, His Grace makes sure all eat with His Grace at the same time.<br />
Towards the end of His Grace’s life, there was a brightness of divine presence on His Grace’s face. Life in America for<br />
His Grace was a blessed time. So many changes took place and all for the positive growth of the Church and the people’s life.<br />
The various books His Grace written are all proofs of His Grace’s divine nature.<br />
At this time it is difficult to come to terms with the loss. One thing gives me consolation is that His Grace will be a great<br />
intercessor for all. His Grace’s prayers from heaven will be a solace to many.<br />
The Northeast American Diocese owes much to His Grace for its spiritual well-being. It was not an easy time when His<br />
Grace arrived in 1992 but somehow His Grace overcame all hurdles by His Grace’s prayer life. And I am sure His Grace’s spiritual<br />
presence will continue to nurture us. Now that His Grace has joined the Lord, let us hope that His Grace’s intercession will<br />
continue for us all. The different great qualities that we can emulate will enrich us.<br />
Mar Barnabas—A Tribute<br />
Rev. Fr. Dr. Joy Pyngolil<br />
It was on July 3rd, 2012 the last time I had a chance to<br />
meet with our beloved Thirumeni at his residence in Pampady<br />
Dayara. He was very excited and energetic and eager to learn<br />
about the progress of his former diocese which he divided and<br />
gave to two of his successors.<br />
Mar Barnabas was a simple and humble bishop as<br />
someone opined a ‘golden bishop with a wooden stick”. I emphasis<br />
on the word, “golden” because he was of 24carart, which<br />
is flexible, no copper added to strengthen it. This original nature<br />
had its limits. He was excited to learn about the Educational<br />
Scholarship established in his name in the South West<br />
America diocese. Immediately he dictated a kalpana to the diocese<br />
complimenting them. It was a fulfilling moment for me.<br />
It was his humble nature and commitment to ministry<br />
that made me to choose Idukki diocese for my parish ministry<br />
upon my ordination prior to migrating to the United <strong>St</strong>ates. ( I<br />
was trained and ordained for the outside Kerala diocese by the<br />
one and only Outside Kerala diocesan metropolitan, HG<br />
Mathews Mar Athanasius). I loved him and cared for him just<br />
like any responsible children who had no eyes on paternal inheritance.<br />
It was true that, we had disagreements. They are all<br />
part of healthy paternal reactions or parent child conflicts. Outsider<br />
may try to take advantage of it, it is universal truth and it<br />
happened here too.<br />
It was on March 22, 1992 His Grace arrived in the US<br />
to take responsibility of the American diocese. It was not an<br />
easy ride in the early years. When his living arrangement was<br />
in a quandary, it was Mr. K. M. Jacob and family who came<br />
forward and took care of him just like a father. Mr. Jacob was<br />
not in any way involved in the diocesan administration.<br />
It was during his term that our diocese took membership<br />
in the National Council of Churches in the USA, which a<br />
dream for me since 1983. The diocese went through the storms<br />
in 1995-96, but he kept his calm. The church created another<br />
diocese- Canada and Europe. I was there with him all these<br />
difficult years and during fire test of September 6, 1996. He<br />
came out humbled and victorious.<br />
Mar Barnabas was a great, I say it again, simple person.<br />
He considers himself as a father to all and expected full<br />
obedience from all. It was his honest and short tempered. A<br />
short living short temper, easily ignited easily extinguished. I<br />
was fascinated by his generosity, always gave his share for any<br />
new church buildings in his diocese. I do recall his donation of<br />
$5000.00 to Orlando church when I was serving there for a<br />
short period of time. He never bothered about his survival or<br />
was never overly concerned about money. God gave him lavishly<br />
and he distributed it lavishly. It was<br />
his transparency in money matters that<br />
helped the small diocese to secure a<br />
great place for itself. His financial dealings<br />
are great model for all our hierarchy.<br />
It was said that he authored 25<br />
books, but his whole life was a book if<br />
we could read it right. May God grant<br />
him eternal life.<br />
JANUARY 2013 3 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
Guest Clergy:<br />
H. G. Zachariah Mar Nicholovos Metropolitan (12/23)<br />
Rev. Fr. Sujit <strong>Thomas</strong> (12/30)<br />
Obituary:<br />
Parish News<br />
Mr. John Chacko, cousin of Gracy Vakayil<br />
Our condolences to the bereaved families.<br />
Divyabodhanam<br />
Next class date will be announced at church. Please<br />
contact course coordinator Mrs. Elsa Koshy for further<br />
details.<br />
Announcements<br />
Please send news, articles and information for February<br />
2013 Newsletter by Sunday, Jan 20 to the parish secretary<br />
or newsletter editor. stthomasiocsecretary@gmail.com.<br />
Please contact the parish office for<br />
any updates in contact information, addition in the family<br />
etc. to be added to the database. Please update your<br />
telephone numbers for Message Broadcast.<br />
Prayer Meetings: Please contact Prayer Meeting Coordinator,<br />
Mr. Joseph Vakayil, to schedule a prayer<br />
meeting at your residence.<br />
Contact Information: Please inform the office about<br />
changes in contact information.<br />
Wednesday Prayer Line<br />
Prayer-Line dial-in # 213-342-3000. Access Code:<br />
4044200. Please email Mathew Samuel, msamue2000@yahoo.com,<br />
to add your email address for Prayer<br />
Line updates.<br />
Parish Calendar<br />
Date Event/Time Location<br />
Jan 5 Mar Barnabas Memorial Church<br />
Jan 19 New Member Orientation Church<br />
OCYM Officials 2013<br />
Secretary<br />
Paul John<br />
(pjohn_19446@yahoo.com)<br />
Treasurer<br />
Mathew <strong>Thomas</strong><br />
mathew24r@msn.com<br />
Vice President<br />
Binu Mathew<br />
(binum2002@aol.com)<br />
Assistant Secretary<br />
Anish <strong>Thomas</strong> (anish8166@gmail.com)<br />
Assistant Treasurer<br />
Christin Varghese<br />
(christin3939@gmail.com)<br />
Core Committee<br />
Alex Pothen & Shibu Baby<br />
MGOCSM Officials 2013<br />
Secretary<br />
Alvin Panicker<br />
(rmsalvin@gmail.com)<br />
Treasurer<br />
Predeep Chacko<br />
(predeep.chacko@gmail.com)<br />
Vice President<br />
Varughese Jacob<br />
(varughese.jacob@gmail.com)<br />
Assistant Secretary<br />
Kripaya Varghese<br />
(kripaya95@gmail.com)<br />
Assistant Treasurer<br />
Shelby <strong>Thomas</strong><br />
(thomas.shelby33@yahoo.com)<br />
JANUARY 2013 4 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
January Birthdays<br />
Chrislin H <strong>Thomas</strong> 05-Jan<br />
Elizabeth Mathew 05-Jan<br />
Taina I Daniel 05-Jan<br />
Ron Philip<br />
05-Jan<br />
Renju Ann Joy 05-Jan<br />
Lydiya Elsa Jaison 06-Jan<br />
Diya Sara <strong>Thomas</strong> 06-Jan<br />
Jijo Jacob<br />
06-Jan<br />
Deepthi Cherian 06-Jan<br />
Wilson Panicker 07-Jan<br />
Anila <strong>Thomas</strong> 08-Jan<br />
Joyel Manoj 08-Jan<br />
Fiji C Philip 08-Jan<br />
Mathew Varghese 08-Jan<br />
Mini Ninan<br />
09-Jan<br />
Marshel Varghese 09-Jan<br />
Andrew Cherian 09-Jan<br />
Sandeep K Thomson 10-Jan<br />
Andrew J Mathew 12-Jan<br />
Divya Mary <strong>Thomas</strong> 12-Jan<br />
Carolyn <strong>Thomas</strong> 13-Jan<br />
Joshua M George 13-Jan<br />
Shawn George Philip 13-Jan<br />
Yasmin George 14-Jan<br />
Shelby K Renji 14-Jan<br />
Ian <strong>Thomas</strong><br />
15-Jan<br />
Ramany George 15-Jan<br />
Libi Korathu 15-Jan<br />
Allen Abraham 16-Jan<br />
Sajan Varughese 16-Jan<br />
Binsy E Mathew 17-Jan<br />
Maliyil M Philip 18-Jan<br />
Sanju John<br />
19-Jan<br />
Deepthy Panicker 19-Jan<br />
Wincy B Joseph 20-Jan<br />
Anu Lajy<br />
21-Jan<br />
Anu Mathew 23-Jan<br />
Shannon Ann George 23-Jan<br />
Alwin T Raju 23-Jan<br />
Sunil <strong>Thomas</strong> 23-Jan<br />
Linju Jacob John 25-Jan<br />
Saramma <strong>Thomas</strong> 27-Jan<br />
Susan Mathew 28-Jan<br />
Mathew Thankachan 28-Jan<br />
Mathew Philip 30-Jan<br />
John Polayil Abraham 30-Jan<br />
Christin <strong>Thomas</strong> 31-Jan<br />
We wish you all a Happy Birthday!<br />
2013 Parish Officials<br />
Secretary: Mr. Philip Varghese<br />
Treasurer: Mr. Elias Issac<br />
Office Manager: Mr. Anooj <strong>Thomas</strong><br />
Managing Committee<br />
Mr. Jacob Zachariah<br />
Mr. John Panicker<br />
Mr. Jose K. John<br />
Mr. Mohan Samuel<br />
Mr. Nebu Daniel<br />
Mr. Rajan Padiyara<br />
Mr. Roy P. Chacko (Ex-officio)<br />
Mr. Sam Kurisinmoottil (Ex-officio)<br />
Mr. Sathees Easo<br />
Mr. <strong>Thomas</strong> George<br />
Mr. Varghese P Abraham<br />
Mrs. Raji John<br />
Board of Trustees<br />
Mr. Alex Daniel (2011-13)<br />
Mr. Oommen Kappil (2012-14)<br />
Mr. Reji Mathai (2013-2015)<br />
Congratulations and<br />
wishing a blessed year ahead.<br />
January Wedding Anniversaries<br />
Mr & Mrs Rajan T Samuel 01-Jan Mr & Mrs Oommen George 11-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Shibu Varghese 01-Jan Mr & Mrs Elias K Issac 12-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Finney M Philip 02-Jan Mr & Mrs <strong>Thomas</strong> Koshy 12-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Eapen V Kalathil 03-Jan Mr & Mrs Eldoe A Korathu 12-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Sam Jacob Kurisinmoottil04-Jan Mr & Mrs Mathew Varghese 13-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Binu Mathai 05-Jan Mr & Mrs George G Mampallil 14-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Jaison Daniel 05-Jan Mr & Mrs <strong>Thomas</strong> George 14-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Varghese Jacob 05-Jan Mr & Mrs Varghese K Issac 16-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Mathew Samuel 05-Jan Mr & Mrs Philip Varghese 18-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Mathew Thankachan 06-Jan Mr & Mrs Abraham <strong>Thomas</strong> 19-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Mathew V <strong>Thomas</strong> 06-Jan Mr & Mrs Babu Varghese 29-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Anu Mathew 09-Jan Mr & Mrs James Jacob 31-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Ninan Mathai 09-Jan Mr & Mrs Jarin <strong>Thomas</strong> 31-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Geevarghese K John 09-Jan<br />
We wish you all a Happy Anniversary!<br />
Mr & Mrs Prasad George 10-Jan<br />
Mr & Mrs Rinu John 11-Jan<br />
HAPPY NEW YEAR<br />
JANUARY 2013 5 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
What Would Jesus Do?<br />
The famous phrase ‘What<br />
Would Jesus Do?’ (WWJD), even though<br />
was familiar, did not strike my thoughts<br />
till I started reading the book In His<br />
<strong>St</strong>eps by Charles Sheldon. The story<br />
starts with an experience that transformed<br />
Rev. Henry Maxwell, a pastor at<br />
the First Church in Raymond. After his<br />
transformation, he challenges himself<br />
and the congregation to evaluate every<br />
part of their lives with the question,<br />
‘What would Jesus do?’. Some parishioners<br />
accepted the challenge, and began<br />
to ask this simple, yet profound question,<br />
in every aspect, every decision,<br />
every habit and every practice of their<br />
lives. Moreover, they changed their actions,<br />
habits and notions accordingly to<br />
fit in the criteria. Many of those changes<br />
involved risk, but those who accepted<br />
the challenge were determined to continue<br />
it, despite the tough and tiring upstream<br />
swimming.<br />
<strong>St</strong>epping out of our comfort<br />
zones is very tough. We knowingly or<br />
unknowingly try to incorporate our own<br />
vested interests in everything we do,<br />
even when we claim to serve God. In the<br />
life of Mother Teresa, a moment came<br />
when she had to leave to the streets<br />
from her convent to serve the poor. Her<br />
initial vow to serve Jesus could have<br />
been easily accomplished by staying at<br />
the convent, but she was able to recognize<br />
her true calling, and to step out of<br />
the boundaries to serve Jesus. She left<br />
her convenience and comfort to inconvenience<br />
and discomfort. This inconvenience<br />
and discomfort brought convenience<br />
and comfort to many poor in Calcutta.<br />
Moreover, the initial inconvenience<br />
and discomfort then became the<br />
convenience and comfort for her. Was<br />
the steps of Jesus during His ministry<br />
ever convenient and comfortable?<br />
Is it possible to ask this question<br />
before every small and big thing we do<br />
in life? First response to an aggressive<br />
driver on a highway is usually aggressiveness,<br />
either by sounding the horn or by<br />
aggressive driving. Will that be the response<br />
if Jesus was driving the car? How<br />
will our action contradict with Jesus’<br />
action in a call for help or charity? What<br />
about Church and worship? Would Jesus<br />
spent time drinking and being merry?<br />
Would Jesus argue at parish general<br />
body’s or take churches to courts?<br />
Would Jesus go to the street to fight?<br />
Would Jesus watch TV shows that teach<br />
sin? Would Jesus live luxuriously?<br />
Asking this question, ‘What<br />
would Jesus do?’, is making me realize<br />
more about my incompatibility with<br />
Christ. Our calling is to walk and follow<br />
His steps. Would Jesus walk through the<br />
steps that I am making in my life? Is it<br />
His will or mine? “For to this you have<br />
been called, because Christ also suffered<br />
for you, leaving you an example, so that<br />
you might follow in his steps.” (1 Pet.<br />
2:21).<br />
(Jerin Juby)<br />
Vicar’s Message<br />
Continued from Page 2<br />
house of God must have the resources to feed the needy for which all must bring their Tithe to the house of God. Giving<br />
to the poor and needy is the individual responsibility within the resources given to each. But Tithe should not be<br />
mixed with helping the needy in their private circle. Tithe is God’s share and that must come to the house of God. It<br />
helped me make a new resolution in 2013 that my tithe will be brought to the house of God and the house of God<br />
should use it for its service of the needy. That does not mean that all tithe money is given as charity distribution by the<br />
house of God. Many areas of running the Church including various missions and services for the needy in our community<br />
can be met from there. Food, shelter, clothing, education, recreation, etc. needs will all be met by the house of<br />
God. The American Government allows tax exemption up to $5,000.00 for which no proof is necessary. And all of us<br />
use that concession. But how many truly gives that money to the house of God? Hardly anyone! This is why we cannot<br />
prosper.<br />
I have seen some of the Congregationalist Christian group members giving their tithe truthfully and diligently<br />
to the house of God. I have not seen anyone of those people going bankrupt or poverty-stricken. It is God’s promise to<br />
reward them in many kinds to those who obey Him. All that we need is the courage to obey the Lord. I remember<br />
those days of church building project I had given all my Tithe to the parish without any hesitation and I am still enjoying<br />
the blessings that came from God on that account. Many people are afraid that looking at the Tithe people<br />
know the income of a person or family. What a fear it is! Genuinely we are all living in our own closed circuit where<br />
we are the only managers of our wealth and resources. No one should know what we have, what we are and what we<br />
do! Time has come for us to be open and truthful to our call as followers of Christ. This will be a huge challenge in the<br />
year 2013 for us all. Once we begin the habit it will continue.<br />
How many can make a new decision in the New Year to stand firm in the Lord, unshaken and giving<br />
fully oneself to God? If the New Year can start with a new decision, we as a parish will see the difference. Can you take<br />
this challenge?<br />
Wish you all a Blessed New Year!<br />
Fr. M. K. Kuriakose<br />
JANUARY 2013 6 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
News from Spiritual Organizations<br />
Martha Mariam Samajam (MMS)<br />
MMS meets alternate Sundays at the church auditorium after Holy Communion for prayer, Bible <strong>St</strong>udy, learning songs<br />
and more. For more details of their activities please contact Secretary Mrs. Omana Varghese<br />
(omanavarghese52@gmail.com).<br />
Women’s Fellowship<br />
Women’s Fellowship meets on a regular basis for prayer and meditation. Contact Mrs. Bessie Mathew<br />
(bessie334@yahoo.com) for more details.<br />
MGOCSM<br />
MGOCSM for the past two months has been progressing. Our young men and women who are in high school<br />
and college have been engaged in Apostolic Bible Teaching, thought-provoking discussions and relevant group projects.<br />
The goal of this ministry is to expound on scriptural truths through the relevant real-life experiences of our<br />
American youth. The office bears of the MGOCSM have done an incredible job this year. Our parents much gratitude<br />
for their support and prayers. For more information, contact Secretary Mr. Alvin Panicker (rmsalvin@gmail.com) for<br />
more details.<br />
Discipleship Ministry<br />
Over the past month and a half a select group of young men have been fully engaged in learning the essential<br />
of becoming a disciple for Christ. We have so far examined Christ as God, as Savior, as King. These cardinal doctrines<br />
of the Church, as seen in the Scriptures and the writings of the Holy Fathers, must be learned if one is to be a disciple<br />
of Christ and the Orthodox Church. I am proud of the young men who have dedicated their time for this ministry.<br />
Young Adults and Couples Fellowship<br />
This fairly new ministry in our parish has been explained in detail in the previous edition of this newsletter, that is, it's<br />
formation and structure. More of our men must contribute their time for this ministry. Please contact Mrs. Sneha<br />
Reynold (snehareynold@gmail.com) for the weekly schedule.<br />
OCYM<br />
During the past month OCYM has been examining the Malankara Orthodox church and its apostolic roots. This has<br />
led this ministry to research the historical evidence of <strong>St</strong> <strong>Thomas</strong>' arrival and evangelical work in India and particularly<br />
on the Malabar Coast. Please contact Secretary Mr. Paul John (pjohn_19446@yahoo.com) for more information.<br />
Men’s Forum<br />
Men’s Forum fellowship is going very strongly in our Church. The format of this session includes prayer, songs, bible<br />
reading, teaching followed by discussions. For more information please contact Mr. N. V. <strong>Thomas</strong>.<br />
FOCUS<br />
FOCUS, Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in the United <strong>St</strong>ates is an organization intended for young adults, married<br />
and single, post-graduate students and professionals, from the ages of 23 and up. Contact Mr. <strong>St</strong>eve Kurian<br />
(stevekurian@yahoo.com) for more details.<br />
JANUARY 2013 7 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>
Sunday School News<br />
Submitted by Oommen Kappil, Principal (Tel.: 267.902.8500, email: kappil1@yahoo.com)<br />
Welcome New Year 2013 With Renewed Commitment To Make A Difference!<br />
As we welcome the New Year, let the warm spirit of Christmas help us look forward to better days in 2013 and beyond.<br />
Just like the wise men sought God, let us all seek God and help lead our children towards God. As members<br />
of our Church, each one of us has a calling from God. The adults, especially the parents and teachers can make a<br />
positive difference in the lives of the children around us. Let us renew this commitment with strong faith in God.<br />
May God grant us the knowledge and wisdom to guide the children in the right path.<br />
Upcoming Events<br />
Mid-Term Exam: Mid-term exam is scheduled for Sunday, February 3rd for all Grades. <strong>St</strong>udents, teachers and parents<br />
may please make a note. As in the past, Centralized Exam is being conducted by the Diocese in June, for<br />
Grades 5, 8, 10 and 12. Sample questions from previous years are available at the Sunday School web site. Please<br />
visit the following URL:<br />
http://indianorthodoxsundayschool.org/user/downloadpdf.aspx<br />
How can we improve?<br />
We are always looking for new ideas to make Sunday school more meaningful and effective. Please contact the<br />
Principal (Oommen Kappil) or the Asst. Principals (Susan Mathew and Jacob Kuruvilla) with your valuable suggestions<br />
and comments.<br />
Secretary’s Message<br />
My dear fellow-parishioners and friends in Christ,<br />
First I want to thank Almighty God for our parish, our Church leaders, our beloved Achens, our youngsters, our<br />
kids and each and every one of my fellow-parishioners for putting the confidence in me and electing me to serve<br />
as the parish secretary for one more time. The support, guidance and encouragement of our Valliachen, and<br />
Kochachen, gave me the confidence to accept this important responsibility. Thank you for electing an efficient<br />
Treasurer and hard working group of Managing Committee members. I am looking forward to working with them<br />
to serve my parish and I expect your prayers. 2013 MC wishes you all a very prosperous happy and blessed New<br />
Year 2013!<br />
Philip Varghese<br />
Parish Secretary 2013<br />
HAPPY NEW YEAR<br />
JANUARY 2013 8 <strong>NEWSLETTER</strong>