The Marthoma ECHO

1

Table of Contents

April Edition Vol 2 No.1

Message from Diocesan Episcopa .............................. 3 The Archbishop of Canterbury’s Ecumenical Easter Letter ......................................................................... 5 Editorial ..................................................................... 7 Felicitation ................................................................. 9 Silver Jubilee Felicitation ........................................ 9 Harmony Through Arts............................................. 10 Missionary call in the Mar Thoma Church’s Holy Qurbana Liturgy, Part-2 ............................................ 12 MAR ATHANASIUS, MAR THEODOSIUS, MAR COORILOS TWENTYFIVE YEARS IN EPISCOPACY OF THE MAR THOMA CHURCH .................................. 15 ‘Pillars of Ecumenical Unity & Harmony’ ............... 18 Episcopal Ministry- A Sacramental Representation of Jesus Christ ...................................................... 24 History ..................................................................... 27 The Origins of the Mar Thoma Church in London: The Early History (1957-1960). ............................. 27 News ....................................................................... 28 Sabha Directory-2015-Released ........................... 28 New report is wake up call for rural mission ......... 30 Brutal murder of Coptic Christians in Libya ........... 31 ASHA BHAVAN ..................................................... 32 33rd Mar Thoma Family Conference...................... 34

The COMPE Executive Committee President: The Rt.Revd. Dr.GeeVarghese Mar Theodosius Vice President : Revd.Dr. Thomas Philips Secretary: Mr.P.M.Mathew Treasurer : Mr.Jaffey Chacko

Editorial Board of the Mar Thoma Echo Editorial Director : Dr. Zac Varghese Cheif Editor : Revd: Jose Punamadam Mr. Sherry Mathews Mr. Oommen Abraham Mrs. Geena Ajay Cover Page Design : Revd: Jose Punamadam

Go out into Eastville and preach the good news ... 36 A Day of Fellowship and Harmony ........................ 37

For private circulation only

Condolences ........................................................ 39 First woman bishop ordained in the Church of England ................................................................ 39 Youth Conference Article ..................................... 40 ECHO Garden ........................................................... 42

Disclaimer: The views published in this journal are those of its authors. Editors or the COMPE do not endorse the contents or views expressed and they are not liable for the contents or views in any form.

~ - Separated - ~ ................................................... 42

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Message from Diocesan Episcopa

glorious harmony to give glory to God and

Harmony

We are all concerned about the future growth of

The present issue of ECHO is focussing on the

the

topic, Harmony. It is in the disharmony of life, we

publication of the Mar Thoma Echo is part of this

become members of the heavenly orchestra.

Mar

Thoma

Church

in

Europe.

The

concern and an initiative. A church community needs organisations, but there is always a danger that organisations or projects take over and become end in itself rather than facilitating the founding vision. Fortunately, we are blessed to be a community with many God-given talents, temperaments and approaches that tend to complement each other for the benefit, work and vision we are all committed to. Church is the body begin to understand the importance of harmony;

of Christ and Christ is the head. St. Paul in writing

the blackness of discord brings out the whiteness

to the church at Corinth is speaking about the

of the beauty and purity of harmonious living. We

body with many organs 1Cor. 12. He goes on

often need this contrast to appreciate things in

saying that love binds and brings harmony. My

life. Our dependence on mere material existence

sense after 25 years as a bishop is that we are still

is temporary and troublesome because of an

a

existential disharmony: human beings tend to

organisation second. Thus recommitment to the

neglect the spiritual dimension of their lives and

original vision of being a Christian community

focus

and

would help us to avoid disharmony in our daily

achievements. This imbalance stunts their ability

encounters. Think globally and the act locally. We

to appreciate the fullness of life. The resulting

need to establish a harmony between God’s

dissatisfaction appears individually as stress,

purposes for us and our actions.

only

on

material

ambitions

Mar

Thoma

community

first

and

an

depression, anxiety, irritability, and so on, and socially as disunity, violence, and war. This

Sri Aurobindo said that all problems of existence

disharmony is much evident in the modern

are essentially problems of harmony. We need the

culture. Harmony is a theme we never think of

art of living. If we look across the spectrum of life

seriously, but conductors and choir masters strive

and existence we can see that all problems can be

very hard to achieve harmony, and try to achieve

solved by creating higher degrees of harmony. We

this by continued training and asking members of

can view any situation where there is a problem

their orchestras to listen to each other; they even

and see how creating a greater degree of harmony

tone down one voice or instrument to give

between the parties involved can solve the

emphasis for another. This giving and sharing is

problem. If you examine any crisis, one can see

part of a beautiful harmonious life. Each of us

that problems can be resolved by bringing about

carries a music of life within us, and we need to

greater

find a harmony to live together to create a

collaboration by bringing differing values and attitudes

coordination, into

the

same

cooperation, line

among

and the 3

participants.

By

bringing

greater

harmony

one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be

between the different aspects of his or her being,

compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil

problems can be solved. The ultimate harmonies

with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing,

are spiritual in nature. God created one world

because to this you were called so that you may

with different creations. We call that oneness,

inherit a blessing (1 Peter 3; 8-9). Silence is the

unity of mind and purpose. Harmony does not

most significant harmonious moment in our lives

mean to compromise. It means to use a higher

and it is in silence we know our God and

understanding under the guidance of the Holy

experience His unconditional love. May the grace

Spirit to find a true reconciliation between the

of God help you all to find that heavenly peace

opposites.

and harmony in all seasons of life.

Wish everyone a happy and meaningful Easter.

Of course growth in any human activity needs form, purpose, and discipline or it can become

Mar Theodosius+

chaotic. When we hear different voices in a community we often have a longing for harmony.

We need to develop an accommodative sense of a community like in an orchestra, listening to the demands of the conductor for bringing the beauty and melody of a piece of music. The eighteenthcentury puritan pastor Jonathan Edwards wrote a great deal about the supreme harmony of Trinity. In the Trinitarian relationship of the Godhead, we see the ultimate reality of the unity in the diversity. The period of Lent and Easter experiences give us a sense of the love that flows and binds this Trinitarian relationship.

Easter provides us with a sense of hope amid the shifting patterns of our lives from which to reflect what lies beyond. In this insight we see how birth and death are linked. The resurrection story does not end with the appearances of Jesus to the disciples alone or elected few after his death. The real resurrection is the passing beyond the world altogether and returning; it is a passage beyond space and time to the eternal. Jesus passed into that harmony of the Trinitarian living. It is into that communion we are invited to enter by our harmonious Christian living by living out the Gospel

in

our

everyday

life. St.Peter

writes, “Finally, all of you, live in harmony with 4

ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY

The Archbishop of Canterbury’s Ecumenical Easter Letter

“Rejoice, 0 Mother Church! Exult in glory!

The risen Saviour, our Lord of life, shines upon you! Let all God’s people sing and shout for joy!”

These words of triumph are sung out across churches as Easter dawns. For centuries such sounds of joy at the Easter festival have echoed and continue to echo around the globe in a multitude of different tongues and cultural contexts, making a deep impact on the lives of Christians and Churches. With the confession of Jesus having conquered death we proclaim that we have been raised to new life in him.

Christians

St

Paul

couples

opening to the Easter Liturgy and which has been the confession of Christians down the ages.

The resurrection of Christ is the great hope, not only for each of us individually, but also for

In the 15th chapter of the First Letter to the Corinthian

faith that is also proclaimed in the Byzantine

the

resurrection of Christ with confidence in the resurrection of Christ’s people. The Apostle clearly states that the resurrection of Christ is a beginning, and that the hope of our own resurrection can only be in Christ. He argues; if the dead are not raised, then Christ is not raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then his proclamation is empty and our faith is in vain.

Having laid out all the arguments that would dispose of the Christian claim to the risen Christ, he continues: ‘But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.’ This is the

today’s troubled world - a world in which violence and violation of human rights describe the day to day context of people in many parts; a world in which moral and spiritual values often seem hopelessly inadequate against the forces of selfseeking gain in every sphere of life. It is also a world in which our brother and sister Christians are still a beleaguered and even persecuted community in many places, as they have been at different times and places in history. We continue to remember the suffering Christians in the Middle East. This year our remembrance is also focussed particularly on the Armenian people who a century ago were driven to their death and into exile because they were Christians.

5

It is into this world that the message of the

I close with the Song of Zechariah (Luke 1:78):

Church at Easter remains constant over the

“By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from

centuries,

of

on high will break upon us, to give light to those

hopelessness the hope of Christ, triumphant

that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

beyond death and the powers of evil; living and

and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

proclaiming

in

the

midst

life giving amongst us.

I embrace you with brotherly love in the Risen In this resurrection faith we follow the saints and martyrs

throughout

the

ages

who

Christ.

have

proclaimed the Risen Christ as their Lord and Saviour, who believe that in Christ there is abundant life and that death and suffering will not

have the final say. The Easter faith

strengthens us with the hope in life, here and now and in the world to come. This hope is not an illusion, which turns out to be empty; rather, it is

The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby

the tested cantus firmus over the ages for all

Archbishop of Canterbury

Christians. Beyond human imagination, the power of the resurrection overcomes disparate,

Easter 2015

conflict-laden and destructive forces. We are called to proclaim God’s Good News in confidence and obedience to Christ to bring healing and reconciliation.

Christ’s resurrection, therefore, also compels us to ever closer bonds of Christian fellowship with one another — the saints in the here and now - to seek greater unity and work together with Christ, as his Body, in the newness of life already begun by him.

It is in this spirit that I greet you with this letter. I will continue to pray that the hope and joy of the resurrected Christ will deeply move our hearts and souls, that it will heal relationships between individuals, communities and nations, and that it will banish fear, overcome suffering, broker peace and bring reconciliation.

6

Editorial “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore”[Psalm 133:1-3].

things. Hence let us ask God for discernment to make the right choices.

“Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved,

compassionate

hearts,

kindness,

humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” [Colossians 3:1214].

God's word reminds us to live in harmony with one another, not to be proud and conceited, but willing to be associated with people of low position. Often the beginning point of all harmonious relations is reconciliation and forgiveness. Reconciliation requires acknowledging that a difference exists and it must be based on reality. It is followed by forgiveness [Ephesians 4:31-32], love [1 John 4:18], unity [1

By the grace of God, we are happy to offer the third issue of the Mar Thoma ECHO with the theme, Harmony, which is based on the third letter ‘H’ of the title of the Journal. ECHO was born with a purpose; the purpose that God has placed within you and me. As a diaspora community, it is imperative that we need to be ENGAGED, effectively COMMUNICATED and live in HARMONY where Son of God placed us.

The word 'Harmony’ originated in the late Middle English via Old French from Latin harmonia meaning ‘joining, concord’ and from Greek from harmos meaning ‘joint’.

Since God has placed us in a functional unit called society, it's vital to be in harmony with good things and disharmonious with unnecessary

Corinthians 1:10], endurance and encouragement [Romans 15:4-5].

Listening to Rev. Canon J. John over the weekend speaking on effective evangelism, the importance of our calling as evangelists or missionaries was thoroughly impressed. As he has rightly said 'A missionary is not someone who crosses the sea, but someone who sees the Cross.' We, as a called out community, are people who sees the Cross and renew our relation with our Creator every day; thus

evangelism

starts

with

harmony

between God and man, starting from our home. It is an agreement and joining between man and God. This had been man's destiny from the first. But Scripture tells us more: God could entrust man with such a high calling because He had created humankind in His own image and likeness. The 7

external responsibility was not committed to him

love, serve and forgive each other, striving to

without the inner fitness. The root of man's inner

bring harmony and peace, bringing glory to His

resemblance to God was in his nature to have

name.

dominion, to be lord of all. There was an inner agreement and harmony between God and man,

Fellow believers, as we identify with the passion,

an embryonic Godlikeness, which gave man a real

crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ

fitness for being the mediator between God and

our Lord and Saviour, let us fix our gaze upon that

His world.

heavenly calling set upon our hearts by the working of His Holy Spirit, bring into fruition the

As it is crucial for a country to stand united, so it's

vision that God has planted in us, living joyfully,

true for families and churches. Studies have

victoriously and harmoniously with each other to

proved that population has a greater impact on

bring His Kingdom upon earth. As we together

harmony than either wealth or political system. In

pray, Father let Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be

most of the cases, the global indicators such as

done, here on earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.

freedom, wealth and happiness determines the harmoniousness but fail to acknowledge the

We take this opportunity to wish you all a very

importance of rich and diverse social relations for

happy Easter.

well being.

The Editorial Board If family can be defined as the primary social unit in society comprising of parents and their children, it's crucial that there's harmony between the members. Or else it will be dysfunctional. We are called into fellowship with one another, in the same way God has called us to be in fellowship with His son Jesus Christ. Eventually that perfect harmony will bring glory to God and will be a reflection of the image of Christ and we live by the power of the Holy Spirit.

As apostle Paul writes in Ephesians, we are members of one body, the universal church of God, 'being fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles, and prophets, with Christ himself as the chief cornerstone. In Christ the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord'. Church is thus not merely a place, but it's a people, God's people in Jesus Christ our Lord. The gospel of Christ is displayed in church when His people commit to 8

Felicitation

leadership for the mission programme in Mexico and

for

the

Amerindians

of

North

America. Thirumeni is a disciplinarian and has great respect for the constitutional formularies of the church for the diocesan administration.

Although Thirumeni’s office is in Merrick, New York, he is always available to help us with his advice through digital and other forms of communication. He is intimately involved with all

The Rt. Revd. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius

aspects of our life in Europe; he is a true shepherd and a model bishop. His messages are constantly available to us through various publications of the

Silver Jubilee Felicitation

diocese. We particularly thank Thirumeni for his

Silver jubilee is a time for reflections and giving

vision to start a regional on line journal, Echo, in

thanks to God for the way God guided Thirumeni

2014. His diocese extends over North America,

to do God’s mission. The Europe region of the

Canada and Europe and therefore, one wonders

Diocese of North America and Europe is very

how he finds time for catching up will all spiritual

grateful to Thirumeni for the way he guided and

and administrative needs of this vast diocese. We

blessed us over the last six years. His regular visits

are sure that the imaginative and prophetic

and pastoral letters helped the whole community

leadership of Theodosius Thirumeni would help

in

the Mar Thoma Christians in Europe to equip

various

developments.

We,

in

Europe,

particularly thank him for creating and nurturing

themselves

for

God’s

mission

and

forging

the Council of the Mar Thoma Parishes in Europe

ecumenical relationship with other churches for

(COMPE). He was also very thoughtful in

spreading kingdom values.

creating ‘altar boys and girls’ for encouraging young boys and girls to fully participate in our

We pray to our Lord and our God to give

worship service. This helps them to develop a

Thirumeni very good health to continue his

liturgical lifestyle from such a young age.

ministry for spreading the good news. We also

Thirumeni has been constantly reminding us of

offer thanks to God for the life and ministry of the

the need for a regional mission project as well.

Rt. Revd Geevarghese Mar Athanasius and the Rt. Revd Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos.

Theodosius Thirumeni entered the Episcopal ministry in 1989. His doctoral Thesis based on the

For The Mar Thoma ECHO Community

life of Sri Narayana Guru and the spiritual life of

London, April, 2015.

Eezhava community was the beginning of his scholastic pursuits and commitment to the development of the marginalised people; this again is evident in the projects he initiated for the mentally handicapped and AIDS victims in the Trivandrum Diocese. Thirumeni continues to give 9

Harmony Through Arts

In the sphere of health, the mind, body and spirit are interconnected and they need to be in

Rev.Dr.M.J.Joseph,Devalokam Aristotle has rightly said that “the ultimate value of life depends upon AWARENESS AND THE POWER OF CONTEMPLATION RATHER THAN MERE SURVIVAL”. For this, poetry, paintings, architecture, music, dance and even the formation of clouds on the horizon are important and they

harmony to achieve the state of “Soukya” (wellbeing). This means that “the word harmony has its meaning in art, health, religion and culture”.

Our objective is to achieve a state of integration and comprehension and even convergence in individual and social relationships. We need to ask ourselves whether this purpose is served.

What harm is there if we worship God in a church

form the very texts for human survival.

Called to be God’s work of art The word, “harmony” means “agreement in relation”-fitting together of parts so as to form a connected whole. The parts need not be of the same stature. The possibility of plurality is envisaged in the very concept of harmony. For Manava Maithri, we need to create strong social bonds through love. Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but looking outward together in the same direction. I would say that art-whether poetry, music, painting, sculpture, dance or other forms serve a purpose if people look outward together in the same direction. In Eph 2:10, St. Paul speaks of Christians as “Poiema” of God. The Greek word poiema could be translated as creation, composition, poem etc.

In the Jerusalem Bible, it is rendered as “we are God’s work of art”. What a noble expectation of human beings by God in the plan of salvation!

Art for social transformation We are meant to reflect the harmony of the art of living through our lives. A flower that is kept in a vase speaks to us volumes. The orderliness and the fragrance of a flower are supposed to create poems within us! They are meant to create harmony within us. In the holistic understanding of health, sickness is disharmony within the body.

building in the form of a temple structure.? Why do we ascribe sanctity to the Gothic structure of the medieval period? The artists have to play a prophetic role in social transformation. In the Indian aesthetics, all forms of arts-performing as well as visual-are complementary. They have only one goal-i.e.to create physical, social and psychic harmony in the vast arena of life. What is required is to imbibe the spirit of harmony in our lives as spirituality for individual and social renewal.

Interdependence for communication and communion Truth,

beauty

and

orderliness

are

divine

attributes which are communicated through art forms. The world is the household (oikos) of God which

rests

upon

relationships.

The

environmentalists may call it “the web of life”. In God’s order of creation, everything has the right to exist. The very talk of man and nature requires 10

modification. As man is part and parcel of nature,

elevated to the level of extraordinary….Lord,

there is no point in making such a statement .The

reduce me to the level of dots and ashes; Show me

conjunction-“and” is irrelevant in a bio-centric

the skeleton of every deed. And enable me to start

attitude to life. To say that the tail of a monkey is

everything from the skeleton”.

longer than the monkey is a false statement as the tail has no existence apart from the monkey.

The ordinary is sublime In art, the ordinary is elevated to the lap of the

As nature is the art of God, we ought to perceive

Divine. The flute which has only a few holes in the

His nature for adoration and appropriation. There

hands of Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu in the

is a message of transcendence through art. It

Indian Mythology, is a symbol of

transcends the borders of caste and religion.

appreciation of the ordinary. The air that passes

Poetic symbols and imageries taken from nature

through its holes bring melodious music. The

play

of

primary task of the artist or the poet or the

communication. In the classical literary work of

painter or the dancer is to elevate the position of

Mayoorasandesam by Keralavarma uses several

the ordinary to a state of beauty. This is the only

vivid imageries of nature for communication. The

way to bring about social amity. A greater

paintings of Ajanta and Ellora Caves are indeed

appreciation of the ordinary alone will bring

poetry written for the posterity. They depict the

about a change for the better. Dr.A.P.J.Abdul

throbbing of the human heart in vibrant symbols.

Kalam’s dream of a developed country will be

The icons in the Orthodox tradition of the Church

realized only if science and technology tread the

embody the noblest language of the heart in

path of art. The cerebral man, the muscular man

paintings. In the Syriac liturgical traditions, there

and the cardiac man will have to travel together

are several biblical symbolisms which emanate

along the way of satyam. Let Loka Samastha

effluent sparks. In worship service organized with

Sukino Bhavantu be on our lips. Let us bring the

eco-bias, the formation of a mandala with the

healing touch of art to all. The musings of the

elements of the panchabootha evokes in us the

heart are best communicated through nature

intimate relationship between the humans and

symbols. Universal symbols like dove, water, air,

the nature. A cosmic representation enacted

fragrance etc. could be used in art and poetry for

through the union of the panchabootha portrays

conveying spiritual truths.

a

significant

role

in

the

art

the Creator’s

the dimension of an eco-friendly community holding

values

of

reverence

for

life.

Harmony through ecological art forms

Artists/Cartoonists should be assured that their

Permit me to make a reference to the ecological

labour is not in vain.

art forms in ECC, Bangalore where I served as its director. ECC stands for the unity of all creation.

I have written a poem on Cartoon which was

There is a vineyard on the campus which was

published in my book, Aroma of Christ

planted by theologians from different Church

(German:Gebenund emphangen). Permit me

traditions in the Asian countries. We have named

to quote a few lines: “…Lord, speak to me through

it, “Ecumenical vineyard” and it carries a message

a cartoon. Son, it is the graph of life; it challenges

of the unity of the Churches in Asia. One may

the

society….Arrogant

qualify it as an “ecological art for ecclesial unity”.

men/women are reduced to zero. The ordinary is

The map of the world and of India designed there

conscience

of

the

11

with plants is also an innovative form of ecological art which could evoke fine feelings of human harmony. The Mound of Religious Harmony created by people of different faiths in

Missionary call in the Mar Thoma Church’s Holy Qurbana Liturgy, Part-2 Revd Dr. Joseph Daniel, Kumbanadu

India by sowing seeds of kosmos plants on the soil- bed is a symbol of religious harmony. The beautiful yellow flowers appear once in three months carried a message

of beauty and

togetherness in the pluralistic context of India. It also makes us aware of the spirituality of religions which is rooted in the basics of life. The root museum on the campus near the kitchen also speaks of the bio-diversity under the earth. As it is a powerful medium of communication across any divide-religious or cultural, there should be earnest effort to make use of the art medium for communication. There are quite a few art forms in nature like an ant hill and others shaped by rains, sun rays, rivers and wind. If religion is meant to bind the humans with God and other living beings on this planet, the natural art forms have to be widely appreciated and made use of for effective communication and communion.

Movements of Mission The role of the Liturgy in inviting the faithful to participate in the church’s mission to draw faithful towards the realm of the synergy of God and to return to the world to witness Trinity is evident in the liturgy. Two movements for the church’s

mission

can be drawn from the

celebration of the Holy Qurbana Liturgy of the Mar Thoma Church: the movement of ascension to the throne of God and the movement of return to the world to witness the redeeming power of Christ by responding positively to the work of God in Jesus Christ.

The Movement of Ascension The ‘movement of ascension to the throne of God’ refers to the liturgical prayers which drive the faithful to the throne of God and towards the realm of God. This helps the faithful to participate in the synergy of God. In the liturgy, there is something audible, visible, tangible, palatable and worthy to smell, in order to bring the faithful members of the Church to the throne of God and to His Kingdom. This means there is enough food for the senses to experience the mystery of the faith, which provide the worshipping community to progress towards the realm of God and in the light of that experience; the faithful receives the strength to follow the liturgical life in the world after the partaking of the Holy Qurbana. Thus the call to divine realm and glory is a call to witness Christ’s redemption in the creation. This process starts with the journey towards the world. It is a movement of return to the world to witness the mission of God in Christ.

12

The Movement of Return

and to invite the world to experience the

The ‘movement of return’ to the world to

redemptive work of Christ in history and to

witness the redeeming work of Christ refers to the

experience the Holy Qurbana experience of the

liturgical dismissal blessing, which drives the

‘parousia’(second coming of Christ). Therefore no

faithful from the throne of grace to the world to

one can go away from their commitment to

witness the work of Christ in their market place. It

sacrifice themselves for Christ and His creation

is a commissioning to extend God’s mission in the

after having received the Holy Qurbana, which is

market place. The second movement starts when,

the celebration of thanksgiving for God’s mission

the celebrant dismisses the faithful, with the

of

blessing (rusma) saying, “My beloved brethren. I

salvation

commend you to the grace and blessings of the

missionary dimension of the Holy Qurbana

Holy Trinity, depart in peace with the gifts and

Liturgy for the salvation of the world is imminent

blessings that you have received from the atoning

in it. The following section is an attempt to deal

sacrifice of the Lord... filled with joy and

with the question of how the Church equips its

gladness,”

members for this mission.

1

as

‘thronos’(altar)

the and

celebrant leads

the

leaves

the

incarnation of

and His

God’s

self-offering

for

creation.

Therefore

the

congregation

towards their home and to the world to lead a

Equipping missionaries for mission

sacramental life, which is in conformity with the

The Mar Thoma Church practices the

‘synergy’ of God. It is the sending forth of the

‘Movement of Ascension to the realm of God’ and

faithful members of the church to the world to

the ‘Movement of Return to the world’, in its

lead a ‘liturgical life after the partaking of the

praxis levels through its Prayer Groups and the

Holy Qurbana’, by offering themselves as a living

Church’s

sacrifice to God as Christ offered himself for the

meetings, besides, its Holy Qurbana celebrations.

redemption of the creation. This enables the

Two types of mission praxis, which stems of the

faithful to attract the creation towards the

Mar Thoma Church’s liturgical practice, can be

sacramental life as the bees are being attracted by

identified:

flowers.

through the Prayer groups and the regular Holy The ‘movement of return’ is the space for

ancillary

‘internal

organizations’

missionary

regular

formation’

Qurbana liturgical practice.

the church’s witness in the world. The church goes forth to the world to witness the Holy

Prayer groups role in forming

Qurbana experience that the church experiences

missionaries

1

The Mar Thoma Church Order of Worship for Holy Qurbana and Other Sacraments and Rites, 65. .

The prayer group meetings, in which the community living and the need for mission 13

outside (kerygma) and mission inside the church

extend their witness, service and liturgy in the

(didache) emphasized as an extension of the

world. Through the faithful members sacramental

liturgical witness and the regular liturgical

witness the faithful hasten the transformation of

celebration, which is considered to be the kernel

the world towards the church’s futuristic hope of

of the economy of salvation, by the church. The

the ‘parousia’. This mode of Christian mission is

prayer group experience refers to the effort of the

beyond the process of communicating the faith

church to experience spontaneity and the internal

through verbal communication. This paradigm of

learning process within the church, in its local

mission is not in compliance with the mission

levels, regularly through the prayer groups. The

paradigm,

prayer groups meet regularly once a week at

transmission of religious convictions, doctrines

homes of its members for prayer, fellowship and

and morals to those who do not follow the same.

for the Biblical expositions. For the purpose of

It calls the faithful to practice the liturgical life in

fulfilment of its mission, the church is divided

the market place, as a witness of Christ’s

into several prayer groups, made up of families

redemption.

which

believe

mission

as

the

residing in a particular geographical location. The regular meetings of the prayer groups are aimed

Mission approach

at educating the people within the church through

Practicing this mission paradigm, the Mar

Biblical teachings and expositions, and through

Thoma Church, follows a distinct way of mission,

extending fellowship, the faith of the church and

which is an inclusivist approach, in which other

thereby, helping the church to keep the faith in its

missionary

local level vibrant. This teaching process of the

acknowledged and included in its mission praxis.

church for mission directs the faithful to be

When the church celebrates the liturgy, the

responsible for their mission within the church

church proclaims its commitment to sacrifice and

and to the world. Within the prayer group the

to invite men and creation to the church together

church

for the

with the church’s futuristic hope of her final union

running of its mission fields together with the day

with God in ‘parousia.’ This paradigm of mission

to day ministry of the church. Under the auspices

aimed at facilitating the world to think about the

of the ancillary organisations of the Church, the

uniqueness of the mission of God revealed in

same process of faith formation is being initiated.

Christ’s redemption. In other words Christian

The prayer group meetings teach the faithful

witnessing is primarily the sharing of the

members of the church that every member of the

redeeming existence and experience in Christ in

church need to witness Christ in the world.

the world. This is a sacramental presence of Jesus

collects resources regularly

experiences

and

methods

are

in the church for the transformation of the world.

Way to equip the faithful The regular Holy Qurbana

In this process of witnessing, the place for the liturgical

numerical growth of the members through

practice on all Sundays, the days of the’ fast and

conversion is not considered as primary objective.

feasts’ and on the special occasions of the church,

But the primary objective is to witness Christ in

brings the faithful to the Holy Qurbana in order to

the market place through a sacramental living.

find resources that are essential to equip themselves to bear Christ’s witness to the world.

The liturgical celebration compels the faithful to 14

Conclusion Thus the liturgy calls the faithful to shape their daily work in the market place, in such a way to resemble the nature, structure, symbols, prayers and postures of the liturgy and to extend the liturgical life in the faithful member’s daily work. In this sense, faithful member’s work in the market place is an extension of his worship

MAR ATHANASIUS, MAR THEODOSIUS, MAR COORILOS TWENTYFIVE YEARS IN EPISCOPACY OF THE MAR THOMA CHURCH Lal Varghese, Esq., Dallas

experience in the church. Thus the Mar Thoma

A Church, believed to be found by St. Thomas, the

Church’s life is characterized by its participation

Apostle of Jesus Christ, in A. D. 52 in Kerala has

in the witness, worship and service.

grown as a global Church. Now, the Mar Thoma Church has 1236 parishes and congregations

Rev. Dr. Joseph Daniel

around the world, 831 active priests, and 179

Vicar, Salem Mar Thoma Church, Kumbanadu

retired priests living and serving in different parts

Lecturer (part-time), Mar Thoma Theological

of the world. The total membership of the Church

Seminary, Kottayam

is about 1.5 million people. The Church has thirteen Bishops and thirteen dioceses. In its mission statement, it is stated that – ‘The Church should be the repository of the divine doctrines revealed by Jesus Christ and proclaimed by His Apostles. It should maintain these doctrines in their purity and to promote the spiritual life of its members

through

the

administration

of

sacraments and by the ministry of the Word of God. The mission of the Church is to make disciples of all nations by the proclamation of the Gospel to the world.’ As fire exists by burning, a Church exists by its mission and Mar Thoma Church is truly a missionary Church; it has expanded its missionary activities to Mexico and among Native Americans under the Diocese of North America & Europe. As part of the Navathy celebrations the Diocese has built about 60 houses in the ‘Colonia Mar Thoma’ in Mexico for the resettlement of the fishermen of the islands in Mexico.

As stated by World Council of Churches, while retaining many of the traditional characteristics of the ancient Eastern Church, the Mar Thoma Church keeps very close relations with Christian Churches in other parts of the world. It is in full 15

communion with the Churches of the Anglican

Church on December 9, 2014. They were

Communion and maintains special relations with

consecrated as Episcopas of the Mar Thoma

the Church of England, the Episcopal Church in

Church on December 9, 1989 at Thiruvalla by

the USA and the Anglican Churches in Australia

Most

and Canada, as well as with the United Church in

Metropolitan. The COMPE, its general body,

Australia. In India, the Joint Council of the

executive committee, parishes in Europe region,

Church of North India, the Church of South India

its members and Vicars, executive committee

and the Mar Thoma Church has been renamed as

members of the parishes, organizations, prayer

the Communion of Churches in India (CCI) in

groups pray that God may continue to keep our

2000 as a further step towards visible unity. The

beloved Thirumenis in His providence so as to

Mar Thoma Church is fully involved in the

continue their faith journey and lead our Church

ecumenical movement and stands for active

in to the future so that God’s name will be

cooperation with other Churches, as for example

glorified.

for the re-building of the Nilackal Church in

Geevarghese Mar Athanasius

Kerala, a place where it is believed that St. Thomas established one of the Churches in A. D. 52.

Mar Thoma Church has always been blessed with leaders with vision and faith who led the Church with

prayerful

commitments.

Rt.

diligence Rev.

and

selfless

Geevarghese

Mar

Athanasius, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius and Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos, three of our Bishops have completed twenty-five years as Episcopas of the Mar Thoma

Rev.

Dr.

Alexander

Mar

Thoma

Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Athanasius Episcopa (Rev. C. I. George) belongs to Chirayilkandathil family in Nedumpram, Thiruvalla. He was born on April 26, 1944 to C. I. Idiculla and Achiyamma.

After graduation from Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla, Thirumeni obtained his bachelor’s degree in theology from Leonard Theological College, Jabalpur, MP, India. Thirumeni served as Vicar of many Parishes including Mumbai, Kottayam, and Madras. Thirumeni was ordained as a Deacon on May 3, 1969 and was ordained as a priest (Kassissa) on June 14, 1969. Later, Thirumeni

was

ordained

as

Ramban

on

November 4, 1989, and consecrated as Episcopa on December 9, 1989 along with Rt. Rev. Dr. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius and Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos. From 1975 to 1976 Thirumeni was at Toronto, Canada for higher studies in theology. Thirumeni served as Diocesan Bishop of Bombay-Delhi Diocese, Diocese of Kottayam-Kochi, and presently in charge of Ranny-Nilackel

Diocese

since

2001.

Mar

Athanasius served as Vice President of the Governing Board of Leonard Theological College, Jabalpur and as President of the National Missionary Society. Recently, Thirumeni has not 16

been enjoying good health and let us continue to

in charge of several parishes including Mumbai,

pray for his full recovery.

Calcutta, Toronto and Nanthancode and he served as

director

of

Thomas

Mar

Athanasius

Orientation Centre, Manganam. He was ordained

Geevarghese Mar Theodosius

as a Ramban on November 4, 1989 and as Episcopa

on

December

9,

1989.

Upon

consecration as Episcopa he was given charge of Kunnamkulam- Madras Diocese. Thereafter he served as Episcopa of Trivandurm-Quilon diocese and of Chennai - Bangalore and MalaysiaSingapore

&

Australia

Dioceses.

Presently,

Thirumeni is serving as Episcopa of the Diocese of North America and Europe from January 2009.

Mar Theodosius is a scholar and his books on reform Movements in Kerala and their impact on socio-economic and religious life of the people have

made

a

mark

in

academic

circles.

Thirumeni’s quietness and meditative lifestyle is worth emulating. Thirumeni is a visionary and engaging administrator; he has brought in many significant changes in the Diocese of North America and Europe. Let us thank God for his Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar

Theodosius

vision and mission.

Episcopa (Rev. George Jacob) was born on February 19, 1949 at Ashtamudi, Kerala to Dr. K. J. Chacko and Mary Chacko of Ashtamudi

Euyakim Mar Coorilos

Kizhakkechakkalayil. Mar Theodosius studied at Baselious College, Kottayam and Mar Thoma College

Thiruvalla.

After

completing

his

bachelor’s degree in Science, he joined Leonard Theological College in Jabalpur, MP, India and took BD Degree in 1972. Thirumeni was ordained as Deacon on June 24, 1972, and as Kassissa on February 24, 1973. In 1980 Thirumeni took Master’s Degree in Comparative Religions from Visva Bharathi University and Doctorate from Mc Master University, Hamilton, Canada in 1986.

Thirumeni’s dissertation for his Ph.D ‘Change and Continuity in the Religious Life of Ezhavas in the South Travancore’ is an expression of his academic discipline. From 1973 onwards he was 17

Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos Episcopa (Rev. Euyakim I. Cheeran) was born on Nov. 25, 1951 at Kumnamkulam to Cheeranveettil Itty Mani

Ittyachenkunju

and

Saramma.

After

‘Pillars of Ecumenical Unity & Harmony’ Swami Sachidananda Bharathi

completing his bachelor’s degree from Sacred

Introduction

Heart College, Thevara, Cochin and master’s

Christian faith is the faith in the active living

degree

in

science

from

Christ

College,

Iringalakuda, Trissur, Thirumeni joined Mar Thoma Theological Seminary at Kottayam for theological

education.

After

completing

his

theological studies, Thirumeni was ordained as a Deacon on April 29, 1978 and as a Kassissa on May 16, 1978. Later he served as priest at Mar Thoma parishes at Jalahali, Kottayam Jerusalem, Palarivattom, Mumbai - Colaba, Staten Island, NY, Grater Washington, Philadelphia Bethel, Baltimore and Florida. On November 4, 1989, he was ordained as a Ramban and on December 9,

presence of God and His Christ in human history

1989, he was consecrated as Episcopa. Thirumeni

and in our individual lives to lead us to our final

served as diocesan Episcopa at Adoor-Mavelikara

destiny in God’s plan. It shines forth in the face of

Diocese (1990-1997), Ranni-Nilackel Diocese

adversity. It gives us strength to face and

(1997-2001) and also at Diocese of North America

overcome the trials and tribulations of life in this

& Europe (2001-2008), Kottayam –Kochi Diocese

world. This

(2008-2011) and as Sahaya Methran at Nirnam-

Christianity. Christians are called to be at their

Maramon

best when the world is at its worst.

Diocese

(2012-2013).

Presently

is

the beauty

and power

of

Thirumeni is serving as Diocesan Episcopa of the

Unfortunately, Christianity today seems to have

(13th

lost much of its spiritual vitality and moral

Diocese of the Mar Thoma Church) since

strength. The Gospel of Christ is a Gospel of love

December 2013. He has served as the president of

and peace. But the conflicts and contradictions

Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam, Chairman

within and among the various denominational

of the Vaideeka Selection Committee, manager of

Churches in the world today are great scandals for

Mar Thoma Schools Board. Thirumeni was also

Christ and Christianity.

the first President of the ‘Dayara and Sanyaasini

The Church of Lord Jesus Christ has to urgently

Samooham’ of the Mar Thoma Church. Let us

undergo a spiritual revitalization and moral

pray that God will continue to bless Thirumeni for

regeneration. However, in order to respond

His work in healing this wounded world.

effectively to this call of the Holy Spirit, the

newly formed Kottarakkara-Punlur Diocese

different Christian Churches will have to let go of many of their worldly pursuits. They will have to become a spiritually united Universal Church of Love and Peace built on the strong foundation of an ecumenical spirituality of forgiveness and 18

reconciliation. This will demand a return to the

to begin from the east with India as its epicentre.

source and center of the Christian faith in the

Just as the institutionalization of Christianity had

Crucified and Risen Lord and in His forgiving,

begun from Rome, the most powerful civilization

enduring and self-sacrificing love that found its

of the first century, the spiritualization of

perfection in His suffering and death on the cross.

Christianity

This was the ‘Christu Marga’, the Way of Christ,

Christians in India

has

to

begin

from

St.Thomas

that was preached in India, the ancient land of religions, by St. Thomas, the Apostle of Lord

Indian Roots of Christianity

Jesus Christ in 52 AD, much before Europe was

Contrary to historical facts, Christianity in India is

Christianized.

still being considered as a western religion

Our efforts should not be to create yet another

brought to this country by European Christian

Church.

many

Missionaries. The historical facts are that Lord

denominational Churches in the world today. The

Jesus Christ and Christianity were born in west

divisions and conflicts among them are hindering

Asia, and the Christian faith was first brought to

the path, the truth and the life that our Lord

India not by western Christian missionaries but

Jesus Christ presents to humanity. What is

by St. Thomas the Apostle, a direct disciple of

urgently required in this era is not adding to the

Lord Jesus Christ, in 52 AD, much before it was

‘hardware’ of Christianity but discovering a more

established in Rome, and centuries before Europe

effective and fruitful ‘software’ for spiritual unity

was converted to Christianity.

and regeneration of Christianity.

St. Thomas the Apostle was by far the most

The Universal Church that our Lord Jesus Christ

courageous and intelligent disciple of Lord Jesus

initiated on the ‘rock’ of Peter has survived the

Christ. While other disciples were afraid and were

trials and tribulations of history, and still

gathered together behind locked doors after the

continues to be a living force in the world even in

crucifixion and resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ,

this

21st

We

have

already

too

century of its chequered history. The

Thomas had gone out into the city courageously.

power of the living Spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit

Hence, when the Lord appeared to His disciples

of God, has ever been protecting and upholding

who were gathered behind the locked doors,

the Universal Church, in spite of the many failures

Thomas was not there with them. The other

and inadequacies of the various denominational

disciples told him about the Lord appearing to

Chruches and their members, for a specific

them. But Thomas refused to believe them unless

mission in this world. The new Pope, Pope

he saw and touched the Divine Master himself.

Francis, is calling the Christian Churches today to

The Lord granted him this privilege next time

return to their roots in the Risen Christ and His

when He appeared to His disciples eight days

Cross. Our aim should be to respond creatively to

later (Ref. Jn 20: 19-28). This personal encounter

this call of the Holy Spirit with all our heart, all

with the Risen Christ made Apostle Thomas to

our mind, all our soul and all our strength.

proclaim ‘My Lord and my God’, the strongest

The institutionalization of Christianity had begun

ever proclamation of faith found in the four

from the west with Rome as its epicenter after

Gospels. It also developed in him a deep personal

Emperor Constantine made Christianity the

experience of the Risen Christ.

official religion of the Roman empire. But I do

Apostle Thomas had travelled the farthest and

believe that the spiritualization of Christianity has

reached Kodungalloor in Kerala coast in 52 A D, 19

within two decades after the crucifixion and

He called us his disciples to build the

resurrection of his Divine Master. He did not

Kingdom of God of love, unity, peace and joy

preach Christianity in India or convert people to

on earth through our own self-transformation.

the Christian religion. He had only preached the

He did not ask us to convert people to

‘Christu Marga’, the ‘Way’ of Christ, as the basis

‘Christianity’. But his call was for a conversion

of the Christian faith and invited people to accept

of our hearts to God.

Christ’s ‘Way’ of forgiving, enduring and self-

Promoting this Kingdom of God of love, unity,

sacrificing love and make it the basis of their life.

peace and joy on earth without religious

The Portuguese missionaries who reached India

conversion and cultural alienation is the

in 15th century A D brought ‘Christianity’ to India

spiritual mission that we the disciples of Lord

and began converting people to this Europeanized

Jesus Christ in the world are called to

colonial Christianity. Their first targets for

undertake in the 21st century.

conversion were those who had accepted the

The mission and message of Lord Jesus Christ

‘Christu Marga’ from St. Thomas the Apostle.

were centered on the vision of the Kingdom of

The disciples of Christ in India today are called to

God. The term ‘Kingdom of God’ appears

rediscover the ‘Indian roots’ of the Christian faith

more than 125 times in the New Testament.

brought to this ancient land of religions by St.

The Lord presented this vision to His disciples

Thomas, the Apostle for India, and build truly

and followers in many ways using many

Christian and truly Indian Churches on the strong

parables in order to drive home this one truth.

foundation of an ecumenical spirituality of

The sum and substance of His mission and

harmony and peace. I have tried to present below

message was the ‘Kingdom of God’. He also

the four pillars of such a spirituality of ecumenical

presented Himself as ‘the way, the truth and

harmony as I have developed them in my own

the life’ of this Kingdom of God (Jn 14:6).

quest for harmony and peace in India.

The term ‘Kingdom of God’ represents a vision of the highest experiential state of love, unity,

Four Pillars of Ecumenical Unity &

peace and joy beyond time and space

Harmony

limitations. This is a vision shared by most religious traditions of humankind, though

1. The first pillar of ecumenical unity &

different religions use different terminologies

harmony according to me will be the

and imageries to represent this one ultimate

vision of the ‘Kingdom of God’ .

goal of human life.

In our Indian context we can refer to the

“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His

Kingdom of God as ‘Dharma Rajya’. The word

righteousness, and all these things will also

‘Dharma’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘dhr’

be given to you.” (Mt 6:33)

meaning to hold together, to unite, to integrate. ‘Dharma’ is that which holds

‘Kingdom of God’ was the vision and mission

together, that which unites, that which

of our Lord Jesus Christ. He wanted us to love

integrates. Love is the basis of such an abiding

one another as He had loved us (Jn 15:12,13).

unity and integration. Peace is its fruit. Where

He prayed for our unity (Jn 17:20,21). He gave

there is love, unity and peace, there will exist

us His peace (Jn 14:27) and His joy (Jn 15:11).

abiding joy. Hence, ‘Dharma’ can be seen as 20

an integral concept built on the corner stones

3. The third pillar of ecumenical unity &

of love, unity, peace and joy. The term

harmony is the ‘Way’ of Christ (‘Christu

‘Dharma Rajya’ implies a nation/world of

Mrga’)to the Kingdom of God.

love, unity, peace and joy. It is also physical expression on earth of the ‘Kingdom of God’

“A new commandment I give to you, that you

preached by Lord Jesus Christ. This is an

love one another: just as I have loved you,

inclusive vision that can be shared by all

you also are to love one another. By this all

theistic religions.

people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Jn 13: 34,

2. The second pillar of ecumenical unity &

35)

harmony will be the ‘Sermon on the Mount’ (‘Christu Dharma’)

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you

“Everyone then who hears these words of

may be sons of your Father who is in

mine and does them will be like a wise man

heaven.” (Mt 5: 44, 45)

who built his house on the rock.” (Mt 7: 24) “This is my commandment, that you love one The Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5, 6 & 7) is the

another as I have loved you. Greater love has

compendium of the teachings of Lord Jesus

no one than this, that someone lay down his

Christ. Together these teachings of Christ can

life for his friends.” ( Jn 15: 12, 13)

be termed ‘Christu Dharma’. The ‘Christu Dharma’

consists

of

universal

spiritual

During the initial stages of the Kingdom of

principles that can be applied and practiced by

God Movement that was started by Lord Jesus

anyone anywhere anytime.

Christ, His disciples were known as the followers of the ‘Way’ (Acts 9:2). This was the

The spiritual results and fruits experienced ay

Way of forgiving, enduring and self-sacrificing

those practicing the ‘Christu Dharma’

love.

will

speak for themselves. Any one who follows the Christu

Dharma

sincerely

is

sure

to

The Way of forgiving, enduring and self-

experience the love, unity, peace and joy of the

sacrificing love taught and demonstrated to

spirit that Lord Jesus Christ offers to his

the world by Lord Jesus Christ is the sure way

disciples.

to the Kingdom of God. In fact, there is no other way. However, the Christian love has to

Mahatma Gandhi used the Sermon on the

extend to one’s enemies and should motivate

Mount (Christu Dharma) as an eternal source

and empower one to lay down one’s life for his

of inspiration for himself. Swami Vivekananda

/her friends. This calls for self-sacrifice of the

had declared that even without any religious

highest order. This was what our Lord Jesus

scriptures, the Sermon on the Mount in itself

Christ Himself had demonstrated on the

would be sufficient enough to bring about a

cross. Rising above the agony of death, He

spiritual regeneration of humankind.

prayed for those who crucified Him, “Father, 21

forgive them, for they know not what they

peaceless world. A Christian with tensions and

do.” (Lk 23: 34)

fears cannot be a true disciple of Lord Jesus Christ. ‘Don’t be afraid’ was the constant

There is no other way to reach the Kingdom of

reminder of the Lord to His disciples. A

God except through the path of love because

peaceless Christian is a useless Christian.

‘God is love’ (1 Jn 4:8). This Way of love was

Fearlessness and peacefulness are to be the

preached in Kerala as the ‘Christu Marga’ by

two most important visible characteristics of a

St. Thomas the Apostle. The term ‘Christu

true disciple of Christ.

Marga’ means the Way of Christ. I have termed this ‘Christu Marga’ as ‘Sahana Yoga’

Forgiveness

and

from an Indian spiritual perspective. The

preconditions to grow in the Peace of Christ,

word ‘Sahana’ means to suffer, to bear. The

‘Christu Shanti’, and for establishing a culture

term ‘Yoga’ implies communion with God.

of peace in the world. Promoting forgiveness

Sahana becomes a Yoga when accepted with

and

love. Sahana Yoga is the ‘forgiving, enduring

individuals, families, communities, nations

and self-sacrificing love’ that will lead us to

and religions

‘Dharma Rajya’. It can never be confined to

disciple of Christ in the modern world (2 Cor

Christians and Christianity. It is a path of love

5: 18,19). This is possible only when the

that will lead us to unity, peace and joy. It is

disciple is united to the Divine Master as a

open and available to anyone anywhere

branch to the vine (Jn 15:5).

reconciliation

reconciliation

within

and

are

among

is the primary ministry of a

anytime. This is also the way to spiritualize Christianity.

We have developed a Inner Peace Meditation ( referred to as ‘Peace of Christ Meditation’) for

4. The fourth pillar of ecumencial unity & harmony

is

the

Peace

of

enabling people to experience inner peace

Christ

through the Christ-Spirit of forgiveness and

(‘Christu Shanti’) that the world cannot

reconciliation. Many people from different

give or take away from us.

religious traditions have been initiated into

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to

this meditation and their experiences are very

you. Not as the world gives do I give you. Let

inspiring.

not your hearts be troubled, neither let them

Experiential Initiatives

be afraid.” (Jn 14. 27)

An ecumenical communion of love termed ‘Disciples of Christ for Peace’ (DCP) is founded

“Peace be with you. As the Father has sent

and registered by us to work for a culture of peace

me, even so I am sending you.” ( Jn 20. 21 )

in the world through ecumenical unity and harmony, and without religious conversion and

“Blessed are the peace-makers, they shall be

cultural alienation. The four pillars of ecumenical

called the children of God” ( Mt 5.9)

unity and harmony as outlined above are also the four pillars the ecumenical communion of DCP.

Peace of Christ liberates us from all tensions

DCP has been serving as the ‘salt of the earth and

and fears. It makes us children of God. We are

light of the world’ for a number of experimental

sent out as courageous peace-makers in a 22

initiatives promoted by us. Important among these are:

Swami Sachidananda Bharathi

1. ‘Peace and Value Education’ & Dharma Bharathi National Institute

Swami Sachidananda Bharathi is a former atheist Indian Air Force Squadron Leader turned

2. ‘Second Freedom Struggle of India’ & Dharma Bharathi Mission

disciple of Lord Jesus Christ after an encounter with death in an air accident in 1982. He was

3. ‘Peace of Christ Movement’ & Dharma Rajya Satsanghs

born and brought up in a conservative Syrian Catholic family background in central Kerala.

4. ‘Tyagarchana Shanti Mission’ & Dharma Rajya Vedi

Squadron Leader N V John was initiated into spiritual life in 1984 with the name ‘John

5. ‘Dharma Bharathi Ashram’ &

Dharma

Bharathi Foundation

Sachidanand’. He received ‘Acharya diksha’ in 1990. Acharya John Sachidanand enterned into

6. ‘Shantivanam’ with Navasrsuthi Ashram

‘Sanyasa’ in 2001. In 2003 he initiated the

7. ‘Eco-Spiritual Tourism’ & Navasrushti

‘Bharathi’ Chaturashrama Sanyasa Parampara

Eco-Spiritual Tourism Society

and took the name ‘Swami Sachidananda

8. ‘Dharma Bharathi School of Forgiveness &

Bharathi. He is also known as ‘Air Force Baba’.

Reconciliation’ for training members of

He has lived-life experiences of the truth,

DCP

goodness

and

beauty

of

four

religions:

Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism.

All these initatives function under the legal

Swami Sachidananda Bharathi has travelled

ownership and moral guidance of Navasrushti

widely and has authored a number of books. He

International Trust which was founded and

was one of the pre-eminent spiritual leaders who

registered by us in 2005.

represented India in the ‘Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders’

Conclusion

organized by the United Nations at New York in

It is time for us the disciples of Christ in the

August 2000. He is also the Founder and

world

divisive

Acharya-guru of ‘Disciples of Christ for Peace’

‘Churchianity’ and make our unique contribution

(DCP), School of Forgiveness and Reconciliation’

towards spiritual unity and regeneration of

(SoFaR), ‘Dharma Bharathi Mission’ (DBM),

Christianity, and towards building a great new

‘Dharma Rajya Vedi’ (DRV) and a number of

world of peace, prosperity and happiness. In

other organizations and institutions.

order to fulfill this historic mission, we will need

Swamiji now lives in ‘Navasrushti Ashram’,

an ecumenical spirituality of unity, harmony and

Shantivanam, near Nagpur. He is involved in a

peace built on the four pillars as indicated above.

ministry of forgiveness and reconciliation in

In, with and through a spiritually united and

India, especially among disciples of Lord Jesus

regenerated Christianity, we will be able to build a

Christ and members of the RSS.

to

liberate

ourselves

from

culture of peace and sustainable development on

E-mail: swamisachidananda@gmail.com &

earth which will lead humanity towards realizing

Mobile – 09947992746 / 07709796805

the vision of the Kingdom of God, Dharma Rajya, on earth.

23

Episcopal Ministry- A Sacramental Representation of Jesus Christ Revd Eapen Abraham* J. Dwight in his book ‘Designed to be like Him’

lived up to their calling and we are proud to be

shares a beautiful story. “Late one night a

part of the Church under their able leadership.

salesman drove into a strange city and tried to get a room in a hotel. The clerk informed him that

Etymology of the Word ‘Episcopa’

there was no vacancy. Disappointed, he started to leave the lobby when a dignified gentleman

The word episkopos was first used in Greek

offered to share his room with him. Gratefully the

literature for one who kept a watch over a country

traveller accepted his kindness.

or a people or even a treaty or an agreement.

Later on it became the title for the official who

Just before retiring, the man who had shown such

was sent from Athens, the capital of Greek

hospitality knelt and prayed aloud. In his petition

Empire, to its dependent states. The word was

he referred to the stranger by name and asked the

used in the Septuagint, the Greek version of the

Lord to bless him. Upon awakening the next

Old Testament, for overseers, officers

morning, he told his guest it was his habit to read

governors (2Chr 24, 11; Neh 11, 9; 12, 42). The

the Bible and commune with God at the beginning

verb episkeptomai was used for God’s “loving

of each day, and he asked if he would like to join

supervision and solicitous care for the land of

him. The Holy Spirit had been speaking to the

Israel” in Deut. 11:12.

and

heart of this salesman, and when his host tactfully confronted him with the claims of Christ, he

When we look in the New Testament we observe

gladly received the Savior.

that the term episkopos is used five times:

As the two were ready to part, they exchanged

a. 1 Peter 2:25 describes Jesus Christ as the

business cards. The new believer was amazed to

“guardian” (episkopos) of the souls of the

read, “William Jennings Bryan, Secretary of

believers along with his role as their

State.”William Jennings Bryan was not only the

“shepherd” (poimen). The two roles of

Secretary of State under Woodrow Wilson, but

Christ

more importantly he was an ambassador for

ascribed to the elders of Ephesus in Paul’s

Christ.

speech to them in the Acts 20:28. This has

(episcopos

and

poimen)

are

an Old Testament background also – when Representing Christ in all the walks of life is a

Joshua was elected Moses prayed to God

responsibility entrusted to all those who have

to give Israel a “leader” and “shepherd”.

taken up this vocation. On this occasion when our

b. In the opening sentence of Paul’s Epistle

beloved Thirumenis celebrate their Episcopal

to the Philippians he addresses the

Silver Jubilee I am greatly indebted to write this

“bishops” (episcopoi) along with the

meditation. I believe all our Thirumenis have

“deacons” (diakonoi).

24

c. In 1 Timothy 3:1 we read about the

measures both his attitudes and his behavior. The

qualities of an episcopos of the early

threefold office of Christ gives content and

Church, which include sensibility, dignity,

definition to the kind of the ministry the Episcopa

hospitality, scholarship, gentle behaviour,

is to offer to the people of God.

management skills etc. d. In his letter to Titus St. Paul says that “a

Episcopal life is a participation in the priesthood

bishop (episcopos), is God’s steward” and

of Jesus Christ. This is the basis for the identity of

he must be “blameless, hospitable, lover of

an Episcopa. An Episcopa is a living image of

goodness, master of himself, upright, holy

Christ the Priest. The essential feature of the

and self-controlled” and he must not be

priesthood of Christ is revealed in his redemptive

arrogant,

violent,

self-giving and self-sacrifice. In this sense,

drunkard or greedy (Titus 1:7-8). He must

Episcopa is called to prolong the presence of

“hold firm to the sure word as taught, so

Christ, the One High Priest, embodying His way

that he may be able to give instruction in

of life and making Him visible in the midst of the

sound doctrine and also to confute those

people entrusted to his care. In this way, the

who contradict it” (Titus 1:9).

Episcopa becomes a sacramental representation

quick-tempered,

of Jesus Christ, the Shepherd.

All these mentioned above are administrative duties. But it should be borne in our minds that

Through the administration of the Sacraments an

the administrative duties can also become a

Episcopa is entrusted to encourage his people to

hindrance for their study and meditation. Some

deepen their love for Christ the Good Shepherd,

bishops are exhausted by attending committees

pattern their hearts on His, and be ready to go out

after committees. Therefore the Church as a

as His image into the highways of the world to

whole has to rethink about the rank as well as

proclaim to humankind that Christ is the way, the

functions of an episcopos. He is different from a

Truth and the life. The Episcopa, who is called to

priest and a deacon not simply in the vestments

be a “living image” of Jesus Christ, is asked to

but in his identity. This should be widely

reflect in himself, as far as possible the human

understood and respected. Once the whole

perfection which shines forth in the incarnate Son

Church acknowledge not only their apostolic

of God.

succession but also their apostolic authority things will be different. Let each one do his own

Participation in the Priestly Life of Christ

duty; the priests should perform all parish duties and

the

committees

should

fulfil

their

The priesthood of Jesus is not mere ritual

responsibilities. Bishops may stand at the top as

sacrifice, but the offering of His entire life to God.

Jesus Christ is the head of the Church.

The

priestly

and

kenotic

dynamism

so

characteristic of Jesus’ own life is at the very core Participation in the Priestly Ministry of

of the Christian identity. A call to the Episcopacy

Christ

is a call to continue Christ’s priestly life which

The priesthood of Jesus Christ is expressed as the

reached its culmination in his sacrifice on Calvary.

perfect priesthood and his priesthood is eternal.

Christ is the touchstone by which the Episcopa 25

The special relation of an Episcopa to Christ bases

relationship to Christ is his relationship to the

itself on the particular grace that he receives on

Church. His relationship to the Church finds its

the day of his ordination to the priesthood. This

source and inspiration in his relationship to

grace moulds the very being of the newly ordained

Christ. In fact the two are so closely and

bishop. The unifying criterion of the life of the

intrinsically related that the bishop’s relationship

priest, who is configured to Christ, Head and

to the Church is inscribed in his relationship to

Shepherd should be the love of Jesus to the flock.

Christ. In the Church and on behalf of the Church,

Like Jesus, the bishop should seek to let the Holy

bishops are a sacramental representation of Jesus

Spirit create with him “a shepherd’s heart.” His

Christ, showing his loving concern to the point of

love for Christ should lead him to love the flock as

a total gift of self for the flock. The bishop thus is

Christ Himself loved it, dedicating Himself

“a visible continuation and sacramental sign of

completely to it through his daily self-offering.

Christ in his own position before the Church and the world”.

A concrete way of life evolving from this is the life of obedience, chastity and poverty, the self-

Conclusion

expressions of the total self-emptying of Christ.

The life of a bishop should provide his flocks the

All the bishops of today and of tomorrow must

possibility

resemble Christ. They should imitate the sinless,

of

re-living

the

experiences

of

formation which our Lord provided for the Twelve

humble,

self-sacrificing,

– a sharing of life with Jesus. This formation

affectionate,

should lead his people to be active members for

understanding life of Christ. They should be living

the building up of the church in union with

transparent images of Christ the Shepherd.

available,

poor,

obedient,

co-operative

and

suffering Christ and with the other brothers and sisters in the church who are “sharing in the

There can be no higher goal. There can be no

Lord’s passion.” It is a re-living of the Pauline

higher ambition. There can be no higher purpose

experience that “I complete what is lacking in

than to live Jesus Christ so that people may know

Christ’s afflictions for the sake of His body, that is,

the Father. The activity of the Episcopa as taking

the church. (Col.1:24).”

the place of Christ and instrument of Christ will be more perfect and influential, when he depends

Participation in the Solicitude of Christ

and conforms himself more to Christ the Good

Jesus came to reveal to the world the parenthood

Shepherd.

of God who invites human beings “as His children, to share His own divine life.” The

May the Lord bless our beloved Tirumenis to live

bishops are led by Christ into the service of God

out and be true representative of the Master who

the Father and of all people. The meetings with

has entrusted this great vocation.

the fatherly love of God by their life of prayer and contemplation, bishops help the people to give

Revd Eapen Abraham was previously the vicar

themselves to others.

of St. Johns Mar Thoma Church, Hounslow, London. Achen is now serving as the vicar of St.

The fundamental relationship of the bishops is

Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Karol Bagh, New

with

Delhi.

Christ.

Intimately

linked

with

this

26

History The Origins of the Mar Thoma Church in London: The Early History (19571960).

Among

Mrs. Sunita Andrew, Tabore MTC, Manchester

them

Mr Verghese

were

Dr

Kovoor,

Verghese Mr

TK

Chacko, Chacko

and some good friends. So there was a nucleus of Mr O.V. Alexander was appointed as the General Secretary of the Indian YMCA and Hostel, London in 1957. It was a small, happy and excited group which set sail for England from India in April of that year. Accompanying Mr and Mrs O.V. Alexander and their three children were, Mrs MG

Abraham

(Sushilla), Mrs

CM

Mathews

(Ponnama), and Miss Molly Thariyan. After 3 weeks of sailing on the SS Carthage they landed at Genoa and after an overland trip by train arrived in Dover. The almost month long journey had been full of fun, laughter and camaraderie. On arrival in London, Sushilla and Ponnama were welcomed by their husbands who had come there for higher studies. Every one went their separate ways to live in different parts of London and joined the local churches.

Alexander had the good fortune to meet Rev. V.V. Alexander from the Mar Thoma church who had come to England to study counselling and psychiatry. He was staying on, in order to gain some practical experience in his field. God has His plans and we can see in hindsight the mysterious ways God brings people together for His Glory.

And so it was that when the need was felt to have a Mar Thoma service there was an Achen at hand. were

several

other

service. Everyone tried to meet as often as time permitted, which was not too often. The ladies especially missed the close bonds that had formed over the weeks of travel from India and were happy at the prospect of coming to church service and meeting with fellow Malayalis.

Once the

possibility of having a Mar Thoma service in London was mooted, letters were sent to the Thirumeni seeking his approval and permission.

Rev V.V. Alexander was requested to conduct the Mar

Thomas

service

once

a

month.

As General Secretary of the Indian YMCA at Fitzroy Square, London, Mr. O.V. Alexander was given quarters on the uppermost (third) floor of the YMCA building. There was a large terrace attached to the flat and a small prayer room was

Within a short time of his arrival in England Mr

There

families that wanted to attend a Malayalam

cousins

of

the

Alexanders already in residence in London.

situated adjacent to the apartment. The doors of the prayer room were kept open round the clock to enable people to worship any time they wished.

There was no furniture in the room but there was wall-to-wall carpeting, which gave a chance for worshippers to sit on the floor and meditate in true Indian fashion. There was no cross or altar in the room. Mr. Alexander offered the use of this room. It was in this prayer room that the first Mar Thoma service was held.

Service began to be held at regular intervals.

Soon, word of the Mar Thoma service spread far and wide and a handful of people gathered there 27

for

the Sunday

service. Prayer

books were

procured from India in due course of time and

News

any Malayali who was passing through London was welcome to join the Service. So we sometimes had persons from the Orthodox and CSI church attending the service. Even worshippers who lived in remote places away from London would occasionally take the long journey to participate in the Mar Thoma service. The congregation also comprised of students who had come to study at various universities, and two or three married couples who were working as doctors in nearby hospitals.

More than anything else Sunday service at the YMCA was a place where you met and reinforced bonds which made living in England less strange and lonely. Church service was followed by cups of hot coffee, cakes and biscuits lovingly passed around by Mrs Anna Alexander. It was a time of talking, laughing and sharing your experience in a strange land.

Mr. O.V. Alexander returned to India in January 1960. However, the seed that was planted there during Mr. Alexander's tenure and through his initiative, continued to grow from strength to strength and we praise the Lord for that.

The Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church

Sabha Directory-2015Released The Fourth edition of the Malankara Mar Thoma Sabha Directory published by the Mar Thoma Syrian Church in 2015 provides an encyclopedic knowledge of the mission and ministry of the Church in its contemporary contexts. It is a very humble attempt undertaken under the patronage of the Sabha Council, the supreme administrative body of the Church and gives up-to-date valid information about its origin tracing to its historic legacy and tradition back to A.D.52 when the apostle St. Thomas set his feet on the soil of Malabar.

As the Mar Thoma Syrian Church is a reformed Church in the Eastern Tradition, an attempt has been made to “preserving the timeless while adapting to the Times”.

According to the late

Metropolitan, Dr. Juhanon Mar Thoma, the heritage of the Church is to be understood and

* This information was provided by Mrs. Sowmini Thomas of Kochi, Kerala, and Mrs. Mary Abraham of Bangalore (marykabraham@gmail.com), daughters of Mr. O.V. Alexander, who at the time lived in London with their parents.

handed down to the future generation as of “apostolic in origin, universal in nature, biblical in faith, evangelical in principle, ecumenical in outlook, oriental in worship, democratic in function

and Episcopal in character”.

In the

general articles and the statistical data given in the Directory, the identity of the Church has been made known by stating that the Mar Thoma Church today in its diasporic calling is a “strange combination of Catholicism and Protestantism, of conservatism and radicalism, of traditionalism in 28

worship and revivalism in preaching”. The

conquest model of the Portuguese and the Dutch

ecclesial mission of the Church tries its best to

presence in the 16th C. and how the identity of the

comprehend both the Orthodox tradition and the

Malankara Church was kept alive through its

Protestant message. The hallmark of the Directory

Apostolic Succession by divine grace.

lies in its biblical theological, historical and ecumenical

perspectives

and

The articles included in the Directory both in

communicated to the future community of the

Malayalam and English give us a bird’s eye view

Faithful through the biographical sketches of the

of the historical heritage of the Church and it’s

Metropolitans till the

Mar Thoma, His Grace,

shepherding under the Metropolitans, bishops

Dr.Joseph Mar Thoma, bishops and laity. The

and Clergy, the deepening of its mission through

calling of the Church to recover the ecumenical

the institutional and parish witness in its local

roots of our beginnings and to appropriate the

and Diaspora contexts. The global ministry of the

ecumenical opportunities that are available to the

Church through its diocesan polity under the care

Church

critical

of 13 bishops, 1050 clergymen, 1225 parishes and

participation of the Church today has been well

a team of evangelists under various institutions of

stated in the Chapter under the title, The

the Church carry on the vibrant missionary calling

Ecumenical

The

of the Church. An attempt has been made to give

Directory gives a blue print of the Ecumenical

brief reports about the parishes under each

legacy

Church

diocese. The hallmark of such a report is to

particularly of its relationship with the SEE of

highlight the witness of the parish under the

Antioch. The arrival of Mar Gregorios of

clergy and the laity of the Church in its local

Jerusalem to the Malankara was a divine

contexts. The articles on the Diaspora parishes

provision to keep alive the Episcopal lineage of

given in the Directory is only a brief sketch of

the Church and the consecration of Mar Thoma I

their universal and local calling so as to mark

in the year 1665 was indeed a milestone in the

their allegiance to the Church headquarters at

history of the Syrian Church here. The inclusion

Tiruvalla. The photo album of the clergy and laity

of the photograph of His Holiness Moran Mar

in the Directory is only an attempt to pay

Ignatius Aprem II, the patriarch of Antioch, in

Church’s humble tributes to their pioneering

the Directory with due reverence is a clear

efforts in the annuals of the Church. An attempt

indication of the Ecumenical legacy bequeathed

has been made to up-date the list of clergymen

to the Mar Thoma Syrian church from Antioch.

who served the Church over the years.

In its preface of the fourth edition of the

The Directory is the combined effort of a

Directory, His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Joseph

dedicated team under the Chairmanship of

Mar Thoma Metropolitan has well stated the

Rt.Rev.Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa. Very

unique vision and mission of the Mar Thoma

Rev.George Zachariah served as the convener of

Church in its local and universal involvements.

the Directory Committee. Very Rev.P.T.Thomas,

The Metropolitan gives credit to the fraternal

the former Sabha Secretary and Rev.Oommen

relationship between the Malankara and the

Philip, the present Sabha Secretary, the other

Persian Churches. But His Grace has regretfully

office bearers at different periods and quite a few

stated

staff members of the Sabha Office have rendered

through

of

the

21st

preserved

a

committed

Relations

the Mar

disastrous

and

(Chapter

Thoma

Syrian

consequences

V).

of

the

29

valuable services in promoting the cause. There are quite a few others who have given their time and

talents

are

duly

recognized

in

the

New report is wake up call for rural mission

“Mukamozhi” of the Convener. The Committee is greatly indebted to Rev. Abraham Varghese, Director, Church Animation Centre, Tirumala for his skilful compilation of the materials under the D.T.P.Technology so as to bring it out at the time

The Arthur Rank Centre strongly supports the

of the 120th Maramon Convention. It is indeed

research report ‘Released for Mission’ published

remarkable that Most Rev.Dr.Joseph Mar Thoma

by the Church of England today. “It is absolutely

Metropolitan had handed over a complimentary

essential that the Church of England implements

copy of the Directory to the Partriarch of Antioch

the recommendations in ‘Released for Mission’

for its release on February 13, 2015 at the

said Arthur Rank Centre CEO Jerry Marshall.

Marmon Convention. The printing work was

“The next decade is a make or break time for

undertaken under the care of T.A.M. Press,

continuing rural ministry. Thankfully some rural

Tiruvalla. Rev.Dr.M.J.Joseph and

dioceses are already moving in the right

Rev.Dr. Mathew Daniel served as the Chief Editor

direction.”

and Associate editor respectively.

The report points to the importance of the rural Thanks are due to all those who have given

church (two-thirds of parishes) and to many areas

advertisements to the Directory whose financial

of success, particularly around Fresh Expressions

support was indeed great. Needless to say, parish

and Messy Church. A statistical analysis indicates

priests and others have rendered great service to

that there is no clear link between growth and the

the completion of the Directory project.

number of parishes in a multi-church group; but lay leadership and an intentional focus on mission

Our feeble literary effort in this Digital era to

are crucial.

bring out a Church Directory is only to light a candle for the Future generation in keeping

Priorities identified by the report include:

alive the motto of the Church “Lighted to



Building a culture of discipleship

Lighten”.



Envisioning, enabling and equipping the

Copies of the Directory are available at the Sabha Office (0469-2630449), and the Mar

ministry of lay people 

Thoma Book Depot (0469-2634235).Price: Single copy Rupees 1000.00& postage

complexity of leading multiple churches 

extra.

For the Directory Committee Rev. Dr. M. J. Joseph, Chief Editor

Effective training for lay and clergy for the Simplification of governance and legal structures



Facilitating creative ecumenical partnerships.

The report outlines findings from a major research project led by Canon Dr Jill Hopkinson, the National Rural Officer for the Church of England.

30

“Rural churches of all denominations are not always aware that they can and do engage in mission,” said Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church. This report highlights what is happening whilst at the same time pointing out the challenges that exist, particularly for Anglican Churches. Many Methodist and URC

Brutal murder of Coptic Christians in Libya Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom following the brutal murder of Coptic Christians in Libya 15 February 2015

Churches face similar constraints. My hope is that

It is with deep feelings of sorrow

we will look for ways of tackling these obstacles

and pain that we received

together since ecumenism is a mission

confirmation earlier this evening of

imperative.”

The National Rural Officers are based at the Arthur Rank Centre, the churches’ resource for rural mission and ministry. “We provide training and resources in leadership and mission, for both lay and ordained, across denominations,” said Jerry Marshall. “But much more needs to be done. We especially urge national leadership structures to find ways to reduce the burden of local governance and to support the creation of staff posts that address administration, finance, and facilities management, to release time and energy for mission.

the brutal murder of Coptic Christians in Libya at the hands of Daesh (IS).

While every life is sacred and every death tragic, the particular brutality demonstrated in this instance and others like it shows not only a disregard for life but a gross misunderstanding of its sanctity and equal value in every person.

Our prayers are particularly with the families of these young Coptic men, who were fathers, brothers, sons and friends of many within their tight-knit rural communities, in which their absence will cause significant loss and sorrow.

Their families are not only deprived of breadwinners who had travelled to Libya to support them, but of the joy that they bring when they return.

While it may seem illogical or incomprehensible, we also pray for those who have carried out these horrific crimes, that the value of God's creation and human life may become more evident to them, and in this realisation, that the wider effects of pain brought by this and other acts of brutality may be realised and avoided. We pray for an end to the dehumanisation of captives who become mere commodities to be bartered, traded and negotiated with.

31

We cannot remember our Coptic brothers without

ASHA BHAVAN

also remembering all those who have lost their

MAR THOMA CARE CENTRE

lives in equally brutal circumstances: journalists, aid workers, medical staff, religious leaders, a young pilot and communities that are considered incompatible with a fringe and intolerant element.

In the midst of this sorrow however, we must continue to dig deeper for the joy that comes from an understanding that this life is but a "vapour that appears for a little time and then vanishes away" (James 4:14), and that true glory and joy are found in an eternal life prepared for all those who live in and for love and peace.

It is only through this understanding that we can continue to live according to the words of 1 Peter 3:15 as demonstrated in the life and witness of the Coptic Church and her children over centuries, "...always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you..."

News interviews with His Grace regarding the brutal murder of Coptic Christians in Libya: BBC World TV Interview BBC World Service Radio Interview More can be found via www.Youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

Introduction The primary duty of all human beings is to strive to make this world a better place for all of God’s creation. Engrossed in and captivated by the rapidly

developing

modern

technology

and

changing life styles we are seen to fail in this duty.

We tend to forget that the future generations also have the right to inherit this world in all its beauty and purity as God Almighty created it. In our mad rush

to

garner

all material comforts

and

modernism, human values and relationships are put on the back burner and selflessness is seen to selfishness.

It is in the light of this present global scenario, that Asha Bhavan has taken up the challenge of equipping the under privileged and physically challenged children to enter the main stream of society giving a new meaning to their lives and making them good citizens of our country.

Now another year of life at Asha Bhavan has passed on with all its sweet memories and bitter experiences. We praise God for all His blessings— often beyond our expectations. His guiding hands has brought us through the darkest shadows and kept us from falling. With a million thanks to God Almighty for all His abundant blessings we present this report of Asha Bhavan Mar Thoma Care Centre of the year 2013-2014.

Breaking News We thank God for the news that the Mar Thoma community in England is forming two new congregations, one in Canterbury and another in Cardiff. More information will be provided in the July edition.

History In 1981, when the International Handicap Year was observed, a historic decision was taken in the Edathara

Convention

(Konni-Pathanapuram

centre convention at Edathara) to put up the Marthoma Care Centre in order to rehabilitate 32

the physically challenged and to provide job

leadership of the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev.

oriented training for such men and women. As

Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa. The Local

per the decision the Care Center was started in a

Advisory Committee under the leadership of the

rented building. As part of it, in 1984 the Care

Diocesan Bishop gives advises suggestions and

Centre purchased a piece of beautiful land at

encouragement.

Pidavoor, near Pathanapuram, under the great

President, Director, Treasurer, MDS Secretary,

leadership of Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar

Diocesan Secretary, Diocesan Treasurer and the

Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan. After taking

members from the churches of Pathanapuram

six long years for its construction, in 1990, Rt.

Centre nominated by the President.

The

LAC

consists

of

Vice

Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilose kindled the light for a new dimension and the training centre has

Important Celebrations

now become a hostel for the physically challenged children, re named as ‘Asha Bhavan Mar Thoma

Asha Bhavan family celebrates all the celebrations

Care Centre’. From that time onwards, Asha

like

Bhavan has been working with the sole aim of

Christmas and Republic Day.

Independence

Day,

Onam,

Deepavali,

taking the physically challenged towards the mainstream of society. We are satisfied with the

Excursion

fact that we were able to promote nearly 420 physically challenged children to forefront of

Every year the children, the staff and the

various spheres of society within the two decades

volunteers go for excursion. In 2014, we went to

of its existence.

Hyderabad. The trip was really a joyful occasion which included the participation of all children of

At this reporting year, 72 differently abled children

Asha Bhavan.

from Kerala and other states stayed at Asha Bhavan and had their education. Children from the age

Spiritual Enrichment

of 5 from poor economic background are being admitted to the institution irrespective of religion,

As part of their routine, the children of Asha

caste and creed. Asha Bhavan includes children

Bhavan conduct worship services both at dawn

from

2nd

std to M.Com

1st

year ( 5 students).

and at dusk, which is made meaningful and

We provide boarding, food, education and health

melodious by the Asha Bhavan choir. On some of

care (including physiotherapy) free of cost,

the Sundays children are invited by various

and 20 staff are sincerely committed to their

churches to participate in worship services, and

service and treatment. Asha Bhavan, which was

on the remaining Sundays, they participate in the

initiated under the ceaseless grace of God

worship service of Pidavoor Bethel church and

with lot of limitations, has now successfully

the Sunday school thereafter.

completed 30 years of its excellence.

Education Management The children of Asha Bhavan get their education Asha Bhavan is managed by the Adoor Diocese of

from the following schools, colleges and other

the MarThoma Syrian Church under the able

institutions: Pathanapuram St. Stephen’s, college, 33

Institute of Commerce, St. Stephen’s Higher

One of our urgent needs is the rehabilitation of

Secondary School, St. Stephen’s High School,

the students who are not able to go back to home.

Mount Tabor High School and L.P.S and the Datatech Computer Centre. Mr. Sajaya Kumar, a

Rehabilitation and the Future Program.

member of Asha Bhavan passed Masters of Fine Arts

(M.F.A.)

with

second

class

from

Most of the students have single parent (only

Thripunithura R.L.V. Arts College. Mr. Sajaya

mothers) and are labourers. They are living in

Kumar came over here at Asha Bhavan at the age

poverty, and some of them do not have their own

of six. He does not have both the hands by birth.

houses. In this situation we are planning to

He passed +2 (he wrote the exams by leg) with 2nd

rehabilitate them. And also planning to establish

class. Since he is talented in drawing and painting

an insurance scheme for the present students.

the Center sent him for B.F.A. and after that he completed M.F.A too. Now he is at Asha Bhavan

We are called and separated as a Church not only

waiting for a job.

to receive God’s grace and care, but also to impart it to the entire society. Asha Bhavan is the result

Physiotherapy

of our Church’s attempt not to be defeated by desperate circumstances, but to mould the

With the aim of sustaining their physical health,

differently abled by equipping them to face

the children are being provided with

courageously the various difficult situations and

physiotherapy as part of their routine under the

to overcome boldly the experience by kindling the

guidance of Mr. Prafulla Kumar. An O.P.

light of hope and optimism in them. Let us all

department is being functioned for those with

participate in this endeavor of enriching the

financial crisis.

challenged, strengthening the weak, encouraging the feeble, realizing their assets and equipping

Agriculture and Related Activities

them to stand in the frontline of society.

Vegetable farming, gardening, rabbit rearing,

Rev. James Thomas

soap and lotion production and other farming

Director

activities are being done here for the physical and mental nourishment of the children.

Source of Income The Mar Thoma Churches within India and abroad, Church members, well-wishers from various religions and caste sectors and different organizations have kind-heartedly sponsored our children. In addition, various endowments are established by different individuals and organizations.

33rd Mar Thoma Family Conference

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rd

33 Mar Thoma Family Conference – UK & Europe 2015

Theme: Whose Image do we reflect?

Christ versus the ‘gods’ of our life!

Worship the Lord your God and serve him only. Luke 4:8

Date: August 21 to 23, 2015 Location: Yarnfield Park Conference Centre Stone, Staffordshire ST15 0NL Our Leaders Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa is in charge of the North America & Europe Diocese.

Our beloved Thirumeni, our shepherd graces us with his spiritual leadership.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Theethos Episcopa is in charge of the Mumbai Diocese.

A witty, popular multi-lingual speaker and a deeply spiritual man of God. He will lead the adult sessions.

Jose Philip is Regional Director (APAC), with Ravi Zacharias International Ministries.

Logo designed by Rev. Jose Punamadam

Host: St. John’s Mar Thoma Church London. UK Vicar: Rev. Jose Punamadam Convenor: C. Isaac George Registration queries to Ajit Thomas & Dr. Gina Thomas registration@stjohnsmtc.org.uk http://www.stjohnsmtc.org.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/mtceuropefamily conference2015

He gave up a cushy corporate job to ‘delight’ in the Lord. An itinerant bi-lingual speaker, he is at his best in Q&As and discussions with the youth.

The Family Conference team have been active in promoting the conference among the various parishes & congregations in UK & Europe. The team has already visited 5 churches and intends to complete visiting all the parishes & congregations including Germany & Switzerland by the end of May 2015.

The conference centre can host up to 600 delegates. The registration for the conference will close on the 30th of June, 2015.

Please keep the conference in your prayers, especially our leaders and pray for all who will attend the conference.

Officially launching the Registration.

Jose Achen hands over the first form to senior most member of St. John’s MTC, Mr. T.C. George 35

Go out into Eastville and preach the good news

bring people to Him. Are we ready for this life of

The word missionary often brings to mind the

While Saturday afternoon involved our guest

image of someone who has moved to a different

speaker for the day, Bishop Lee Rayfield

country to spread the Gospel. While it does

(Suffragan Bishop of

include this, in truth we are all missionaries

members from both parishes attending a local

wherever God has placed us. Reaching out to our

pub quiz, Saturday evening saw the church open

local communities is on the agenda of our Mar

its doors to its neighbours. While the Church can

Thoma mission strategy, among projects in India,

often seem like a foreign community to non-

Mexico etc. On Friday 6th and Saturday 7th March

church goers, what better way to communicate

adventure? God has promised us His power to be His witnesses in pointing others to Jesus.

Swindon), and other

2015, St Thomas Mar Thoma church in Bristol was involved in the neighbourhood mission of our local area of Eastville. The programme was a joint effort between our parish and St Anne’s, our partner church.

The two day event was split into, first, an evening of equipping the church to be mission-focused, and then the actual reaching out and inviting them in. All this was preceded by several weeks worth of prayer, prayer walks and raising awareness locally of the upcoming events.

the message that we’re just as human as them, than by sharing with them the things that are core

Friday night was a challenge to the Church

to us all: good music and good food! The evening

presented by Reverend Johnny Douglas, an

started and ended with live music by Bristol-

Imagine Associate at the London Institute for

based singer-songwriter, Robin Mitchell and his

Contemporary Christianity. Revd Douglas spoke

band

on the theme of ‘Not a fortress Church, but a

atmosphere. And the food was Indian, but not too

missionary people’. His talk was down to earth

spicy!

and

it

provided

an

approachable

and it was evident that he was preaching what he himself was living; moving out of his comfort zone

In between, Bishop Lee gave a talk where he

to reach out to those around him. How true his

included some parts of his testimony and shared

message that every action of ours is done either

his thoughts, centred on the theme of ‘A life worth

out of fear or out of love. In fear we group

living’. He spoke about the differences in how we

ourselves in our fortress Church but with Christ’s

view ourselves and how God sees us, the call that

love in us we can step out to be a missionary

God has on each of our lives that makes it worth

people. And each one of us called by Him is being

living, but his underlying message was ultimately

used continuously in multiple ways as links in a

about God’s love for us. It was short and simple

chain of events, which we can’t always see, to

and in an age where the Church is perceived to be 36

“anti-a lot of things”, it’s the only message the world really needs to hear.

A Day of Fellowship and Harmony

After the talk, there was an opportunity to ask questions. A fair few were asked about mission,

The World Day of Prayer and the Sevika

evangelism, and the one that I guess everyone on

Sanghom Retreat, St.Thomas Mar Thoma

earth wants to know the answer to was asked by a

Church, Bristol

young girl: why can’t life be easy?

The Sevika Sanghom members of the St.Thomas The church wasn’t teeming with visitors on

Mar Thoma Church, Bristol, recently conducted a

Saturday evening, but the mission was still a

combined World Day of Prayer and a Sevika

success because the Church successfully did what

Sanghom retreat in the premises of a church hall

God asked. By inviting people, regardless of

in Weston-Super-Mare, with the members of

whether they came or not, the message would

Weston-Super Mare playing hosts for the day. The

have been spread that the Church wants to be

World Day of Prayer is observed on the first

among the community, not locked away in our

Friday of March every year. For reasons of

fortress. And those who did attend and heard the

convenience,

message of God’s love would have hopefully also

St.Thomas Mar Thoma church

seen this message in action through the serving

annually on the first Saturday of the month of

heart of the Church and taken this home with

March. The annual theme was prepared and

them. Reiterating Revd Douglas’s message, the

based on the country of Bahamas, an archipelago

events of Friday, Saturday and the preceding

in the Atlantic Ocean. In the past couple of years,

prayer walks were all links in God’s plan to bring

we have chosen to travel to different destinations

the Gospel to the area of Eastville and beyond.

where our members reside, like Cardiff, Bath and

the

Sevika

Sanghom

of

the

observes it

this year the venue was aptly chosen as Weston Rev K P Johnson, Mr. Manoj Chacko from the St

Super Mare, the seaside city of the Southwest. The

Thomas Mar Thoma Church and Rev Tina Goede,

hosts, our members of Weston played their part -

Mrs. Carla Macgregor have been instrumental

they were dressed in the local costumes of the

along with members of both parishes in making a

Bahamas and served thematic refreshments like

maiden attempt to reach out to the Gospel into

coconut water and mango juice. Tropical fruits

the neighbourhood of the St Anne’s Parish,

were kept as décor pieces in corners of the hall.

Eastville

Calypso music played in the background while the ladies started to pour in for the day’s events. Had

Suzanna Abraham

it not been for the cold outside, we could have

St Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Bristol

easily transported the session outdoors with the sun and the sand playing party to the theme!

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The day began with a worship service.

The

receive. She also vividly explained the setting

worship order prepared by the Mar Thoma church

where Christ washed his disciples’ feet, conveying

is based on the worship order prescribed by WDP,

the humility required from every one of his

the global organization for the World Day of

followers.

Prayer service. Our members led the service and

discussion that ensued. An hour of intercessory

our vicar, Rev. K.P Johnson offered the blessings.

prayer was subsequently held to pray for the

A

needs of the Bahamas, of its women, and the

presentation

of

the

country’s

history,

Other members contributed to the

geography, demographics, religion and other

needs of our church and community.

These

relevant details were presented beautifully by one

sessions where the women gather together and

of our members, Mrs. Susie John, who also in her

pray have always brought about a great sense of

slide show, had inputs from her visit to the

power in prayer and of renewed vigour in praying

Bahamas! A country of azure waters, colorful

for each other. Mrs. Annie John Cherian then

flora, friendly people, tax free (!)– She made every

hosted a light session of table setting demos,

one of us want to visit the country at some point!

talking about basic principles of fine dining.

Mrs. Smitha Sunil shared the message based on

Lunch was a rather relaxed and enjoyable

the theme of the service- ‘Do you know what I

experience, and the women had a chance to chat

have done to you?’ from the first seven verses of

and unwind. The afternoon session was filled with

the gospel according to John, Chapter 13. Smitha

laughter and banter as members from Weston

dwelled on the expanse and the radical love of

Super Mare and Cardiff presented skits, based on

Christ that is over arching, free to all who will

biblical themes. We wrapped up with the days 38

events with a delightful afternoon tea. Many of our members had arrived from different parts of the Southwest by train, some had travelled right

First woman bishop ordained in the Church of England

after a night of work, and some were local. It was a day of fellowship and camaraderie, one which we women look forward to year after year.

Mrs. Annie John Cherian Bristol

Condolences Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, presided over Mr. John Thomas

the ordination and consecration of Revd Libby

(Johnnychayan

or

Lane, 48, as Bishop of Stockport at a service in

uncle Johnny), who

York Minster on Monday, 26th January 2015. She

had died at 9PM on

is the first woman bishop in the Church

Sunday 22nd March

England. The debate over whether to ordain

in

women as bishops has long proved divisive. More

Harrow,

London,

than 100 bishops travelled to York for the service.

aged 84,

was

However tensions over Mrs Lane’s consecration

founding

member

a

of the Sinai MTC,

of

resurfaced last week when Dr Sentamu revealed he would not lay hands on a male vicar, Fr. Philip

North London. He was one of the earliest settlers

North, about to be made bishop of Burnley,

in this country. He travelled from Kozhencherry

who does not accept the ordination of women as

to Singapore and then to UK in the late

bishops. But rather than have Dr Sentamu lay

1950; he was

hands on him, only two bishops who have never

a

pillar

of

the

Mar

Thoma

Community and helped in the formation of all our

ordained a woman priest will do so. Although

parishes in this country. He served the Queen and

Bishop Lane is the Church of England’s first

the country by working for the RAF. He was a

woman bishop, within the global Anglican

most charming and devout Christian. He is

Communion there are 30 female bishops, most

survived by his wife, Mrs. Kunjunjamma Thomas,

notably the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal

four children and ten grandchildren. He will be

Church in the US, Dr Katharine Jefferts Schori.

greatly missed. The Mar Thoma Community in Europe thank God for his life and ministry and offers our condolences.

May his soul rest in peace.

The Editorial Board.

39

Youth Conference Article

"Prayer changes us. Prayer calls on God to change circumstances. Prayer is powerful. Prayer brings

1st MarThoma Youth Conference of Europe It is a great pleasure to announce that the 1st MarThoma Youth Conference of Europe is taking place during the summer of 2015. This 3 day conference being conducted from the 26th June to the 28th June, 2015 will be held at Cefn Lea Park & Conference Centre in Wales and the hosts for this wonderful event are Carmel MarThoma Youth Fellowship, Liverpool.

The theme selected for this conference is “Soar on wings like eagles” taken from Isaiah 40:31. A logo

revival. Prayer transforms God's people and brings about salvation. Prayer makes us bold for the Lord." The youths of several MarThoma Parishes have already initiated a chain prayer intended for the success of the event; to gather as a youth community and be spiritually strengthened with the power and glory of God. Please pray and partake in this wonderful event.

Thank You, Youths of Carmel MarThoma Church, Liverpool

was designed by Miss Rinju Philip, a youth member of Carmel MTC church, Liverpool, to represent the chosen theme. Furthermore, it is a privilege to announce that our beloved diocesan bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa set in motion this year’s Youth Conference by inaugurating the conference logo on his visit to Liverpool in January 2015.

The conference will be blessed with the presence of Rev Jameson K. from Dublin, Ireland as a speaker along with the well renounced Authors and missionaries Rod Gilbert and Ruthie Gilbert.

Along with the 3 speakers, all the MarThoma Vicars of Europe have given their full support for the conference and have shown their interest to partake in this special occasion committed to help with spiritual renewal and bring our young people closer to God. This conference aims to accomplish and address the needs of the youths of the MarThoma community, help them develop the relevant skills and spiritually dedicate their lives to the Lord.

The conference is to conduct in-depth Bible study that helps youths know God and equip them to serve the Church effectively.

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ECHO Garden ~ - Separated - ~ Mozhiyil Annie Joseph

Separated set apart and called Separated to witness Him Separated to know His will Separated to do His work

Happy Easter to every one -

From ECHO family

Separated to think, spell, and do good To save those world from sin To walk in the right path The way of truth, justice, love, service For the redemption of mankind Separated to light and to be lighted

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