Message - St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley

Transcription

m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
Church Consecration Souvenir
1
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
2
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
WELCOME .................................................................................................................................................................... 1
MISSION STATEMENT .................................................................................................................................................. 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................................................... 3
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK - MR. LENY MATHEW ....................................................................................................... 6
VICAR’S VOICE - REV. SHAJI M. THOMAS .................................................................................................................... 7
MESSAGE - VALIYA METROPOLITAN THE MOST REV. DR. PHILIPOSE MAR CHRYSOSTOM ........................................ 9
INTRODUCTION TO 21ST MARTHOMA METROPOLITAN ............................................................................................ 10
as
m
ar
th
o
MESSAGE - THE MOST REV. DR. JOSEPH MARTHOMA METROPOLITAN .................................................................. 11
INTRODUCTION TO SUFFRAGAN METROPOLITAN THE RT. REV. DR. ZACHARIAS MAR THEOPHILUS ...................... 12
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. DR. ZACHARIAS MAR THEOPHILUS SUFFRAGAN METROPOLITAN ................................... 13
INTRODUCTION TO DIOCESAN BISHOP (2008) THE RT. REV. DR. EUYAKIM MAR COORILOS ................................... 14
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. DR. EUYAKIM MAR COORILOS, DIOCESAN BISHOP (2008) ............................................... 15
INTRODUCTION TO DIOCESAN BISHOP (2009) THE RT. REV. DR. GEEVARGHESE MAR THEODOSIUS ..................... 16
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. DR. GEEVARGHESE MAR THEODOSIUS, DIOCESAN BISHOP (2009) ................................. 17
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. GEEVARGHESE MAR ATHANASIUS .................................................................................... 19
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. JOSEPH MAR BARNABAS ................................................................................................... 21
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. THOMAS MAR TIMOTHEOS .............................................................................................. 23
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. DR. ISAAC MAR PHILOXENOS ............................................................................................ 25
tth
om
MESSAGE - THE RT. REV. DR. ABRAHAM MAR PAULOS ............................................................................................ 27
ANNOUNCEMENT
ww
w.
s
Unforeseen circumstances and the turn in the global economy
caused the inordinate delay in the printing of our church dedication
commemorative souvenir. We present this publication not only as a treasured
reference book, but also intended for your reading pleasure. We thank all our
honorable patrons, advertisers, well-wishers and members for their patience,
and to realizing our limitations.
With due apologies,
Convener - Souvenir & Public Relations Committee
St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley
3
ch
.o
rg
MESSAGE - MR. GEORGE BUSH, PRESIDENT - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ........................................................... 29
MESSAGE - MS. PRATIBHA D. PATIL, PRESIDENT - REPUBLIC OF INDIA .................................................................... 31
MESSAGE - MR. EDWARD G. RENDELL, GOVERNOR - COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA ................................ 33
ac
hu
r
MESSAGE - MS. MEERA SHANKAR, AMBASSADOR OF INDIA ................................................................................... 35
MESSAGE - MS. NEELAM DEO, CONSUL GENERAL OF INDIA .................................................................................... 37
MESSAGE - MR. ANDREW E. DINNIMAN, SENATE OF PENNSYLVANIA (19TH DISTRICT) ........................................... 39
MESSAGE - DR. DUANE D. MILNE, PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE (DISTRICT 167) ................................. 41
MESSAGE - MR. HUGH J. MURRAY SR., MANAGER - WILLISTOWN TOWNSHIP ....................................................... 43
MESSAGE - VERY REV. ABRAHAM SAMUEL, SENIOR VICAR GENERAL ..................................................................... 44
m
MESSAGE - REV. K. M. MAMMEN, SECRETARY - MAR THOMA SYRIAN CHURCH OF MALABAR .............................. 45
MESSAGE - REV. A. C. KURIAN, 1ST VICAR-IN-CHARGE .............................................................................................. 46
th
o
CHURCH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS (2005-2009) ...................................................................................... 47
MAR THOMA CHURCH EMBLEM – A DEFINITION .................................................................................................... 48
HISTORY OF MAR THOMA CHURCH - MR. N. M. MATHEW ...................................................................................... 49
ar
FAITH AND PRACTICES OF MAR THOMA CHURCH - REV. ABRAHAM MATHEW ....................................................... 57
FAITH AS IDENTITY - REV. JAISEN A. THOMAS ........................................................................................................... 64
m
CHURCH FORMATION METROPOLITAN’S DECREE (KALPANA) 11-OCT-2005 .......................................................... 65
CHURCH FORMATION DIOCESAN BISHOP’S DECREE (KALPANA) 25-OCT-2005 ...................................................... 66
as
MEETING WITH 20TH MAR THOMA METROPOLITAN - MR. MATHEWS T. MATHEWS .............................................. 67
INTRODUCTION TO 20TH MAR THOMA METROPOLTAN THE MOST REV. DR. PHILIPOSE MAR CHRYSOSTOM ........ 69
FOUNDING MEMBERS’ LIST – ST. THOMAS MAR THOMA CHURCH OF DELAWARE VALLEY ................................... 70
tth
om
ADIEU TO PHILADELPHIA MAR THOMA CHURCH - DR. SAMUEL K. CHACKO ........................................................... 73
BIRTH OF THE 4TH MAR THOMA CHURCH IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA ...................................... 75
HOW THE APOSTLES DIED? ....................................................................................................................................... 85
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS ........................................................................................................................ 87
FIRST CHURCH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS (PHOTOS) 2006 ....................................................................... 89
w.
s
CHURCH BUILDING PROJECTS’ REPORT - MR. SAJI JACOB ........................................................................................ 91
OUR VICARS & YOUTH CHAPLAIN ............................................................................................................................. 95
ww
Design & Printing
Graphic Systems & Co.
Mallappally West Post, Kerala - 689 585, India
Tel: 0469-2782260, email: [email protected], www.printersfirm.com
4
ch
.o
rg
m
ar
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
GLIMPSES OF WILLISTOWN TOWNSHIP .................................................................................................................... 97
POEMS - (1) OUR EVERLASTING WORSHIP HOUSE (2) DO YOU DARE TO BE DIFFERENT? .................................... 101
POEM (MALAYALAM) - “ARADHANAYILE ARTHAVUM SAARAVUM” - MR. JOSEPH NELLIKADAN ................... 103
“YOUNG FAMILIES, ATTENTION PLEASE...” - DIOCESAN BISHOP’S CALL ................................................................ 105
HISTORY ON THE FORMATION OF MAR THOMA SUNDAY SCHOOL SAMAJAM ..................................................... 109
SUNDAY SCHOOLING IN THE DIOCESE OF N. AMERICA - MR. JOHN PHILIP ........................................................... 111
FROM NADIR TO......(STAGES OF GROWTH – ST. THOMAS MAR THOMA CHURCH OF DELAWARE VALLEY) ........ 115
SPIRITUALITY 101 – SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS - DR. GEORGE K. ZACHARIAH ................................................... 123
STORY – “PAUL’S EPIPHANY” - MS. RAYNA ABRAHAM ........................................................................................... 131
WHILE GOD IS OUTSIDE YOUR TERRITORY - MR. MANNOOR THOMAS ................................................................. 137
MARAMON CONVENTION – A GLIMPSE OF ASIA’S BIGGEST RELIGIOUS GATHERING ........................................... 139
KEYWORDS OF THE HOLY BIBLE .............................................................................................................................. 142
MALAYALAM TRANSLATION OF THE HOLY BIBLE – HISTORICAL FACTS .................................................................. 143
WHY SHOULD THE WEDDING RING BE WORN ON THE FOURTH FINGER? ............................................................ 145
MAR THOMA WEDDINGS – ITS TRADITIONAL SIGNIFICANCE - MR. N. M. MATHEW ............................................ 147
HUMOR – CHURCH SLOGANS ................................................................................................................................. 154
A FEW RECOLLECTIONS (MEMOIRS OF AN EARLY IMMIGRANT) - MR. V. P. ABRAHAM ........................................ 155
MEDICAL ARTICLE - EAR INFECTIONS - DR. BINOY CHANDY ................................................................................... 158
OUR CHURCH THRU’ MEDIA COVERAGE ................................................................................................................ 160
TRAIL BLAZERS (MILESTONES OF OUR CHURCH – 1ST OF FIRSTS) ........................................................................... 197
PHOTOS GALORE – CHURCH ACTIVITIES THRU’ THE LENS ..................................................................................... 207
tth
om
as
CONVENER’S CLOSING COMMUNIQUÉ - MR. MATHEWS T. MATHEWS ................................................................ 210
DISCLAIMER
ww
w.
s
All photographs appearing in this church dedication commemorative souvenir
are received either directly from the respective persons, and/or obtained from the
church web-pages and related links. Articles published in this souvenir are the personal
opinions of the writers and may not reflect that of the Vicar, Convener,
Editor and/or the Souvenir & Public Relations Committee,
St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley. Every article was submitted
under the pretext that it is conforming to Christian values and life.
Therefore, the church does not accept any liability for any errors or omissions
contained therein. For any further information or clarification on the articles,
kindly contact the respective the writers.
5
130 GRUBB ROAD, MALVERN, PA 19355-3504
ch
.o
rg
www.stthomasmarthomachurch.org
Souvenir & Public Relations Committe
From the editor’s desk
ac
hu
r
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills,
from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the LORD,
-which made heaven and earth.
- Psalm 121:1-2
It is with a grateful heart and a sincere spirit that I thank the Lord for his grace and mercy towards our church since
its inception to the present day.
th
o
m
When we started as the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church in the November of 2005, in a rented facility at Havertown on
West Chester Pike, a place to call our own was but a distant dream. Over the years our membership grew from 85 to
111. By the grace of God we were able to move into our own facility and today we proudly worship at 130 Grubb
Road, Malvern, PA.
ar
The years in between were marked by uncertainties and seeming impossibilities, but led by His hand, and on the
prayers of his faithful people, impossibilities turned into possibilities. The untiring efforts of the building committee,
executive committee, vicars and parish members enabled us to acquire the present property, the required funds and
other arrangements necessary to convert the building into the present day sanctuary.
as
m
Fundraising is key in such an endeavor and we were able to generate the amount required for the down payment and
the initial expenses through our various projects. This commemorative souvenir is one of these fundraising efforts.
And I am sincerely grateful to each and every one who has supported this effort.
tth
om
At this time, I would like to particularly thank the convener of the souvenir committee, Mr. Mathews T Mathews,
without whom this souvenir would not have been possible at this scale. His relentless efforts, meticulous research and
sincere commitment made all the difference. I also wish to acknowledge the efforts of each member in the souvenir
committee for their untiring work and dedication, especially Mr. Mathew Baby for spearheading much of the efforts.
The guidance and timely advice of our Vicars Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and Rev. Abraham Mathew helped us to forge
ahead with our project.
ww
w.
s
I particularly wish to thank all our advertisement sponsors, friends, families and well wishers who contributed money,
time and effort to make this project a success. I hope that as we continue to grow as a church and gratefully worship
in our new sanctuary, we will remember the grace and mercies of the Almighty that has followed us through every
step of the way. May the name of the Lord be glorified through our church, the building and through the generations
that will worship here.
God bless you all.
Leny Mathew
6
130 GRUBB ROAD, MALVERN, PA 19355-3504
ch
.o
rg
www.stthomasmarthomachurch.org
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas
1st Resident Vicar
May 2006 – April 2009
Vicar’s Voice
April 26, 2009
Dear Parishioners of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley,
ac
hu
r
Greetings in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!
Tomorrow as I return to India with my family, I am immensely grateful to God Almighty for the
privilege given to me in serving a new parish during the past three years in this great Country of
Hope. I am also recognized to be your parish’s first Resident Vicar and was very thrilled when I was
honored with a plaque today. The Lord truly blessed me as your Vicar & President. I appreciate all of
the prayers and supports each of you have given at all times of our stay here.
th
o
m
This “Vision” that the Lord entrusted to us in November 2005 has come to pass, and everyday it unfolds further. The Lord
has blessed us with infrastructure in place to support growth, and development of membership and ministry. You are a part
of that infrastructure. Your faithful attendance, your faithful participation in the ministries, and the programs of your Church,
and your tithe and offerings that you bring in makes up the infrastructure that Lord needs to take this Gospel to the world.
May the parish be a real fellowship of believers and a living witness to this part of the world!!
m
ar
The new church property - at 130 Grubb Road in Malvern - we acquired in 18 months of its existence, is prepared into the
living temple of God. It’s reflected in the words of St. Paul in 1-Corinthians 3:16, “Do you not know that you yourselves are
God’s temple and that God’s spirit lives in you.” Let this new facility be a center of activities for all the members, especially
our youth and children. These are perilous times in the world; but not for those that are the Kingdom’s citizens. As believers
in Christ, we are citizens of His kingdom and seated in heavenly place with Him. The Lord is making a way for each of us
daily, just as He did for the Children of Israel and is still doing.
tth
om
as
I avail this opportunity to congratulate you all on the release of the Church dedication commemorative souvenir that was held
on May 03, 2008, by our Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos. I want to thank the entire Souvenir Committee
for their commendable work, as well as its Convener, Mr. Mathews T. Mathews and Editor, Mr. Leny Mathew who have
taken initiative as leaders, toiled and worked extremely hard in bringing out this souvenir. I am encouraged in the Lord, full
of faith, and to see my church prospering in a great way.
w.
s
My wife, Shobha, sons: Ashish and Joel will miss the entire fast-paced Christian ministry at Malvern. We will always
remember this church and all its members in our prayers. I am also requesting you all to do the same. May the good Lord
bless this ever-blessed church by forming a church of spiritual purpose, presence, and power and thereby, serve the community
at large. May the parish as it ‘outgrows’ be outgoing in being a living witness of the Lord Jesus in the declaration of our
founder Apostle St. Thomas, “My Lord and My God!!” Let the growing generation enjoy full and meaningful participation in
the life of the parish!
As I bid farewell, I pray that this new temple of the Lord be a place of praise and peace, joy and jubilation, besides caring and
sharing. Let us rededicate our lives to the glorification of His kingdom!!
ww
Yours in His Ministry,
“The God of Heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build.” — Nehemiah 2:20
7
ch
.o
rg
Extending our Prayers and Good Wishes to all Parishioners,
St.Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley
ac
hu
r
Mr. & Mrs. Jesudasan Ipe
Mr. & Mrs. Joshi Eapen Ipe
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
m
The Mar Thoma Syrian Church in Singapore
St. Matthew 10:
I send you as sheep in the midst of wolves. Be ye therefore wise as
serpents and simple as doves. 17 But beware of men. For they will deliver you up in councils, and they will
scourge you in their synagogues. 18 And you shall be brought before governors, and before kings for my sake,
for a testimony to them and to the Gentiles: 19 But when they shall deliver you up, take no thought how or what
to speak: for it shall be given you in that hour what to speak. 20 For it’s not you that speak, but the Spirit of
your Father that speaketh in you.
ww
w.
s
16 Behold
8
ch
.o
rg
Mar Thoma Church
PHILIPOSE MAR CHRYSOSTOM
VALIYA METROPOLITAN
ac
hu
r
Jubilee Home
Maramon P.O.
Pathanamthitta Dist.
KERALA- 689 549
20.05.2009
Message
th
o
m
I wish you all blessings and pray for God’s continued mercies through this
Souvenir, which the Delaware Valley St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, U.S.A. is
publishing in connection with dedication of the Parish.
m
ar
Jesus said, "you are the salt of the earth''. The saltiness of the salt is the essence
of the salt. Not the colour, shape or the attractiveness of the packet in which it is
packed. The saltiness of the parish is the depth of the relationship with Jesus
Christ the head of the Church. Is Christ the head of your parish?
tth
om
as
Salt loses itself to make other things useful and pleasing. What is our contribution
in creating a society where we are? Are we prepared to make others happy and
give up everything to this goal?
Be in Christ. Be related to each other. Be at the service of all.
God Bless you all !!!
ww
w.
s
Yours sincerely
VALIYA METROPOLITAN
Phone: 0468 2211210, 3200313
Cell: 9847032623
E-mail: [email protected]
Fax: 0468 2211212
ch
.o
rg
An introduction to 21st Mar Thoma Metropolitan
ar
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
The Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan
m
XXI Mar Thoma Metropolitan
tth
om
J
as
oseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan belongs to the Palakkunnathu family in Maramon from which have
come Abraham Malpan, the reformer and the first four Bishops of the Church, after The Reformation.
He had his theological training at the United Theological College, Bangalore and Protestant Episcopal
Seminary in Virginia, USA. He also studied in theological institutions at Canterbury, Oxford and was
awarded the honorary degree - Doctor of Divinity - by Virginia Seminary.
w.
s
As Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan, he served the National Council of Churches
in India as its President and Member of Executive Committees of different development agencies like,
CASA and ECLOF. At present he is one of the senior Presidents of CCA and the chairman of CASA.
Concurrently the Metropolitan is holding charge of the Niranam-Maramon Diocese.
ww
Parents
Date of Birth
Ordained as Deacon
Ordained as Kasseessa
Ordained as Ramban
Consecrated as Episcopa
Designated as Suffragan Metopolitan
Installed as Metropolitan
10
Palakkunnathu Kadone Lukose and Puthoor Mariamma
June 27, 1931
June 29, 1957
October 18, 1957 : Rev. P. T. Joseph
January 11, 1975
February 8, 1975 : Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus
March 15, 1999
October 2, 2007
Mar Thoma Syrian Church of Malabar
ch
.o
rg
Apostolic See of St. Thomas
DR. JOSEPH MAR THOMA
METROPOLITAN
‘HERMON’
ADOOR P. O.
PH: 04734 228240, 229130
FAX: 04734 228352
Mobile No.: 9447370700
m
ac
hu
r
‘POOLATHEEN’
THIRUVALLA 689 101
KERALA, INDIA
PHONE: 0469 2630313, 2601210
Fax: 0469 2602626
21.04.2008
th
o
Message
as
m
ar
This has a response to your letter, dated April 07, 2008. I am glad to know that
your new church at 130 Grubb Road, Malvern in the picturesque Willistown
Township of Chester County in Pennsylvania is being consecrating on 3rd of
May by the Diocesan Bishop. To mark that occasion it is befitting to publish a
souvenir.
tth
om
We are a people scattered all over the world, away from our traditional habitat
in Kerala. Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan had expressed his vision in
the 1940s as follows:
ww
w.
s
“Oh Lord, scatter my people and give them grace so that they can share thy
love and care and bring the Gospel to the neighbours among whom they are
being placed.”
I think his prayer has materialized in the following decades. That is why you
are there to be a witness to the redeeming love that does not cultivate the
philosophy of hatred.
I appreciate the parishioners for their achievements and wish every blessing.
Yours sincerely
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus
B
ch
.o
rg
Suffragan Metropolitan
orn on August 29, 1938 at Niranam to parents – V. K. Oommen and Mariamma Oommen of Mattackal
Venparambil family, young Oommen Koruth had his childhood education at his native place. Later he
graduated from the Union Christian College, Alwaye and completed his B. Ed training from Titus II
College, Tiruvalla. He started his career as a teacher at the Ashram High School, Perumbavoor.
In 1974, he completed his Masters at the
Princeton Theological Seminary and in
1976 his Doctoral studies at the Boston
University, USA. During his education at
Princeton and Boston he was also the Vicar
of the Mar Thoma Congregations at
Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Boston,
and New York. His contribution in the
educational field is noteworthy while he
ministered at Ashram English High School,
Settlement High School-Alwaye, St.
Thomas High School-Mysore, and St.
Thomas Residential School-Trivandrum.
He was also Vicar of the parishes in
Kozhencherry,
Mysore,
Santa
Cruz-Bombay, etc.
ac
hu
r
As he aspired for theological studies, in
1963 he joined the Leonard Theological
College, Jabalpur for Bachelor of
Divinity.
m
On his return the Mar Thoma Church
ordained him as Deacon on May 7th 1966
and entered into priesthood. Later on July
9th 1966 he was ordained as ‘Kasseessa’
titled as Rev. Oommen Koruth.
ar
th
o
He returned to Perumbavoor Ashram
English High School, and was also
involved in pastoring the Mar Thoma
parishes at Perumbavoor, Kothamangalam,
Vengoor, Krariali, Koratii, Mamala,
Methala, etc.
tth
om
as
m
The Mar Thoma Sabha Mandalam recognized the untiring pastoral services of Rev. Oommen Koruth and
recommended him to be an Episcopa of the Church. On April 26th 1980 he was ordained as Ramban and on May 1st
he was consecrated as a Bishop and accepted the celibacy name: Zacharias Mar Theophilus Episcopa. After becoming
an Episcopa for 25 years, Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus was installed as Suffragan Metropolitan on July 3rd
2005.
During his tenure as an Episcopa, Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus has served all the Dioceses of the Mar
Thoma Church. He is the first Resident Bishop for North America & Europe Diocese (till October 2001).
ww
w.
s
The Ecumenical Contribution of Zacharias Thirumeni in the National and International Christian circles is noteworthy.
His Grace has served as the President of the National Missionary Society of India, Bible Society of India (Kerala
Auxiliary), World Mission of India, Ecumenical Christian Center (ECC) - Bangalore, and Theological Literature
Society, Kerala. He has also served as the Secretary of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust of all Episcopal churches in
Kerala; Executive Committee Member of the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA); and Executive and Central
Committee Member of the World Council of Churches (WCC). He is also the member of the Ecumenical Meeting of
Bishops, Friends of the Focolare Movement and member of the Ecumenical Solidarity Visit to Sudan. His leadership
in the success of the Metropolitan’s Navathy Project by collecting more than Rs. 16 Crores and providing more than
2050 houses for the homeless in India has been one of the most unique contribution in the recent history of the
Christian Community in India.
Since 2005, Zacharias Thirumeni is at ‘The Olivet’ serving the Chengannur-Mavelikara Diocese.
12
ch
.o
rg
CHENGANNUR - MAVELIKARA DIOCESE
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus
Suffragan Metropolitan
OLIVET ARAMANA
Thittamel, Chengannur
Kerala, India - 689 121
Ph: 0479 - 2456667 (O)
2454747 (R)
E-mail:[email protected]
21st April, 2008
m
ac
hu
r
The Diocesan Bishop
th
o
Message
Dearly Beloved in Christ,
m
ar
Greetings. Happy to receive the invitation for the consecration of the new
church. I am indeed glad to know that the parish is progressing by the
grace of God and you have been able to acquire and consecrate a new
worship place for the Mar Thoma Community in that region.
tth
om
as
I take this opportunity to appreciate and congratulate the Vicar Rev. Shaji
M. Thomas, office bearers and all members of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma
Church of Delaware Valley for the successful endeavour in dedicating the
new church.
May this church be a sanctuary where you will be able to glorify God,
experience His divine presence, and also share loving fellowship among
all the members of the parish and all who come there. All Glory, Honour
and Praise be unto Him alone.
ww
w.
s
With Prayers and Blessings
Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan
13
An introduction to our Diocesan Bishop
T
ch
.o
rg
Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos
he second Resident Diocesan Episcopa for North America and Europe of the Mar Thoma Church, Rt. Rev.
Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos was born on November 25, 1951 to parents – Itty Mani Ittyachenkunju and Saramma
of Cheeranveettil family, Kunnamkulam, Trichur District.
ac
hu
r
After graduating from Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Cochin and Post Graduate studies from Christ College,
Iringalakuda, young Euyakim I. Cheeran joined Mar Thoma Seminary, Kottayam for Theological studies. In March
1978 he completed the Bachelor of Divinity. On April 29, 1978 he was ordained as a Deacon. Later on May 16, 1978
he became a Kasseesa and was known as Rev. Euyakim I. Cheeran. Prior to his consecration as Episcopa, on December
9, 1989 along with Rev. C. I. George (Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Athanasius) and Rev. George Jacob (Rt. Rev.
Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius) the trio were ordained as Rambans on November 4, 1989.
th
o
m
As a clergy for over eleven years he served various Mar Thoma
parishes in India and abroad, which includes Jalahali-Bangalore,
Kottayam Jerusalem (Assistant Vicar), Palarivattom-Kochi,
Colaba-Mumbai, USA – Staten Island, Washington D.C.,
Philadelphia Bethel, Baltimore and Florida.
m
ar
As an Episcopa, Thirumeni served the following Dioceses:
Adoor-Mavelikara (1990 -1997), Ranni-Nilackal (1997-2001), North America
and Europe (2001-2008).
as
Thirumeni was the first President of the Dayarah and Sanyaasini Samooham of
the Mar Thoma Church.
w.
s
tth
om
The Episcopa’s Biblical reflection has challenged people especially the youths
in their spirituality and outlook and has motivated them in starting local mission
projects. It was his missionary outlook that has led to the starting of Asha Bhavan,
Pathanapuram, Kerala for the physically handicapped; Deepthi Baalika Bhavan, Pallipadu, Kerala for the daughters
of the Fishermen folks; ‘Jyothis’ at Mavelikara, Kerala for the mentally challenged children; Deepam Baalika Bhavan,
Mekuzhoor, Kerala, for the Tribal and Dalit children; Half-way Home, Ranny, a rehab center for the mentally challenged
people. Tirumeni also guided the Dioceses in starting the Mission fields. To cite a few are: Satyawadi Mission field,
Tamil Nadu; Gadgeshwar Mission Field, Andhra Pradesh and Kalahandi Mission field, Orissa.
ww
Euyakim Episcopa is a person of deep devotional life and missionary zeal who is always guided by the conviction
that Christian creed and Christian vision have in them a life and richness that can transfigure the complexities of
human life. Being guided by the power of the Holy Spirit he empowered the members of the Diocese of North
America and Europe in starting local missions that led to the formation of Mexico Mission, and Missionary activities
among the Native Americans. “Colonia Mar Thoma” in Mexico is now housing more than seventy families of the
fisherfolk community, who had lost their homes in the devastating hurricanes that hit the islands of Mexico in 2005.
From January 2009 Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos is serving the Kottayam-Kochi Diocese.
14
The Diocese of North America & Europe
ch
.o
rg
The Mar Thoma Church
Sinai Mar Thoma Center
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos
2320 S. Merrick Avenue
Merrick, NY 11566
Tel: (516) 377-3311
(516) 377-0188
(516) 665-3740
Fax: (516) 377-3322
Diocesan Bishop
The Rev. Biju S. Cherian
ac
hu
r
Bishop’s/Diocesan Secretary
Mr. T. A. Mathew
Diocesan Treasurer
May 13, 2008
m
Message
th
o
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
m
ar
I am delighted to send greetings and warmest congratulations to the members
of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley on the consecration
of the new church property on May 03, 2008 at Malvern, Pennsylvania. I am
also glad to know that you want to publish a commemorative Souvenir on
that occasion.
tth
om
as
Dedication of a new Church building can be a valuable occasion for pondering
what God has been doing with His church in this world. We need to be
thankful to God for all His guidance and providence in the past years. God is
calling us to be His presence in this world. As an immigrant church from
India, we need to show God’s love to this world. We have a long Christian
history and tradition which will help us to become light of this world and
salt of this earth. Let us pray to God for His mercy and strength to be witness
for Him in this land.
ww
w.
s
I assure you all my prayers and wishes to the Vicar and the members of the
church.
May God bless you all.
Yours in Christ’s service
Diocesan Episcopa
15
An introduction to our new Diocesan Bishop
J
ch
.o
rg
Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius
anuary 05, 2009 the Diocese of the Mar Thoma Church of North America and Europe
welcomed its third resident Bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius.
ac
hu
r
‘Bishop Theo’ as he is popularly known among our Youth Fellowship members, was born on
February 19, 1949 to Dr. K. J. Chacko and Mary Chacko. He is a native of Ashtamudi in
Kollam District and belongs to the Kizhakke-Chakkalayil family.
m
After his schooling at M. T. Seminary High School, teenager George Jacob studied at Baselios College, Kottayam and at
Mar Thoma College, Thiruvalla for the Bachelors Degree in Science. After majoring in Physics, he joined Leonard
Theological College, Jabalpur and took BD Degree in 1972, along with Rev. Dr. K. S. Mathew (present Sabha Secretary)
and Rev. Dr. T. J. Thomas. In 1980, he took a Masters Degree in ‘Comparative Religions’ from Visva-Bharathi University,
West Bengal and in 1986, a Doctorate from McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
th
o
Erstwhile at the age of 23, he entered into priesthood and became a Deacon on June 24, 1972. Later on
February 24, 1973 he was ordain as ‘Kasseesa’ and thereafter recognized as Rev. George Jacob.
m
ar
After 16 years of ministering several parishes including Mumbai, Calcutta, Toronto, Kozhikode and
Nanthancode/Trivandrum, and serving as Director of Thomas Mar Athanasius Orientation Centre at
Manganam/Kottayam, Rev. Dr. George Jacob was elevated to the position of ‘Ramban’ on November
04, 1989. He was consecrated as Episcopa on December 09, 1989 along with Rev. C. I. George, (later
known as Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Athanasius) and Rev. Euyakim I. Cheeran (later known as Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar
Coorilos, the second resident Diocesan Bishop, Mar Thoma Church of North America and Europe).
tth
om
as
Ramban Rev. Dr. George Jacob on consecration as Episcopa was conferred with the celibacy name of Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese
Mar Theodosius. His début service was with the Kunnamkulam-Madras Diocese. Before taking charge of the Diocese of
North America and Europe, he also served as the Diocesan Bishop of (1) Kunnamkulam-Malabar, (2) Trivandrum-Kollam,
(3) Chennai-Bangalore, and (4) Malaysia-Singapore & Australia Dioceses, from 1990 through 2008.
w.
s
Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius is the only Mar Thoma Bishop having his own website: www.martheodosius.com.
In the words of Thirumeni’s former long time serving Secretary, Rev. K. E. Geevarghese (Trivandrum-Kollam Diocese):
“Mar Theodosius is an innovator in the mission of the Church. The life and mission of Theodosius Tirumeni reveals that
he is a shepherd, who thinks and cares for the flock all the time.” So also quoting Thirumeni’s former Secretary, Rev.
Mathew Baby (Chennai-Bangalore Diocese): “Mar Theodosius is one of the bishops who hardly smile; yet he connects
with both the young and the old in a peculiarly charismatic way. Thirumeni is systematic, punctual, visionary, caring and
techno savvy. He hates charity but loves the poor and maintains an exemplary rapport with all.”
ww
In honor of Mar Theodosius as he turned a sexagenarian, a Festschrift volume “In Search of Christian Identity in the
Community” was published early 2009. It is a token of love and affection expressed by his well-wishers, and fellow
Bishops of the Mar Thoma Church. The contributors celebrate the basic pastoral and prophetic concern of Mar Theodosius
under the general theme of the book. The articles and essays in this book weave a common thread of the New Humanity in
Christ. It also depicts that Mar Theodosius is a good scholar.
We wish Thirumeni a long period of Episcopal Ministry in God’s vineyard.
ch
.o
rg
Chennai - Bangalore and Malaysia - Singapore Diocese
Diocesan Episcopa
ac
hu
r
Mar Thoma Bhavan,
No. 77, 6th Avenue,
Harrington Road, Chetpet,
Chennai - 600 031 India.
Website : www.martheodosius.com
April 22, 2008
m
Message
ar
th
o
I am extremely happy that the dedication of the new worship place of the
St. Thomas Mar Thoma Parish, Delaware Valley, U.S.A. is taking place on
May 03, 2008. It is appropriate to release a Souvenir to mark this important
occasion. My heartfelt congratulations to the Vicar, office bearers and all
who have participated in it.
as
m
Church is the body of Christ. It is the believing and worshipping community
that makes the church reality in the local level. The Christian Church is not
an organization or a building; but a faith community: loving, caring, and
sharing community that proclaims and manifests her faith and life in Christ.
It is a community that expresses the life of the Kingdom of God.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
You will gather together from now onwards on all Sundays regularly in the
new Church Building. The liturgical life continues from worship to worship;
from Parish to homes; from fellowship to business. Oneness in the Kingdom
of God will certainly create a strong bond with neighbours in the community.
Thus a liturgical life in a worshipping community will create a community
of humanity around the worshippers. May the life and witness of the St.
Thomas Parish enable you to grow towards a larger human community
where the new humanity in Christ will be a reality for everyone.
I wish the dedication of the Church and publication of the Souvenir all
success.
Prayerful regards,
Yours in Christ’s Ministry
17
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
Ranny - Nilackal Diocese
Mar Thoma Centre,
Mandiram P. O.
Ranny - 689 672
Pathanamthitta
Kerala, S. India
ac
hu
r
Tel: (O) 04735-227487
(P) 04735-227760
Fax: 04735-227511
[email protected]
December 13, 2008
th
o
m
Message
m
ar
I am glad to know that the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware
Valley, USA is bringing out a souvenir to mark the occasion of the
consecration of the new church building & Parsonage. It is my pleasure to
congratulate the Vicar and the members for having their achievement.
tth
om
as
Worship is the centre and focal point of the Christian Community. It is there
its members gather together to give glory, honor and praise God and to
experience fellowship with one another.
May God bless you always and in ALL WAYS!
Yours in Christ,
ww
w.
s
The worship place is also a symbol of God’s presence in the community and
reminds the members that they themselves are also temples of God. As the
Church is a holy place, set apart for worship, so too every family and every
member of our community is to become a dwelling place of God and is to be
holy in that part of the world.
Geevarghese Mar Athanasius Episcopa
19
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
Delhi - Mumbai Diocese
Mar Thoma Centre
26, Bhai Vir Singh Marg,
Gole Market, New Delhi - 110 001.
Tel: 23369151 (P), 23342828 (O)
Fax : 23348800
e-mail: [email protected]
[email protected]
ac
hu
r
Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa
April 15, 2008
th
o
m
Message
ar
Thanking God Almighty for adding one more church for the
Marthomites in the United States to worship and witness the risen
Lord.
as
m
I congratulate your Achen, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and all the parish
members for your tireless work in achieving a beautiful church
property for the Mar Thoma Church.
tth
om
May the Good Lord bless you all for a meaningful worship and fruitful
living.
Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa
ww
w.
s
Peace
21
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
Kunnamkulam - Malabar Diocese
Thomas Mar Timotheos
Diocesan Episcopa
ac
hu
r
Mar Thoma Centre
Makkada P. O., Kakkodi (Via),
Calicut - 673 617
Tel: 0495-2265773, 2265796 (O),
0495-2266957 (P)
Fax: 0495-2267641
[email protected] (O)
April 20th 2008
m
Message
th
o
Greetings to all of you in the unique name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
m
ar
I am glad to know that St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley
is treading on the path of growth and progress. My happiness abounds much
as I come to know that the newly built Church and Parsonage is getting
ready for dedication. It is very appropriate that you are planning to publish
a souvenir commemorating the dedication ceremony.
as
Church is a called out community to shed light in the place where darkness
prevails and to be salt to resist decay and permeate taste to the community life.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
Being a Diaspora community you are called to be a blessing to others and
witness the love of God through your words and deeds.
I appreciate the Vicar, the Convener of the Church Building projects and all
the Executive Committee members for their sincere endeavor for
accomplishing the project. I commend the true Christian giving that all the
Parish members showed at the project fulfillment. I congratulate the Chief
Editor and Editorial board members for the effort taken for the Souvenir
publication.
I wish joy, peace and oneness to each and every one of you.
May the Lord of heaven and earth fill your lives with newness and abundance
in the years to come.
Yours in Christ’s Service
Thomas Mar Timotheos Tirumeni
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
The Koshy’s Family
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
St. Mark’s Mar Thoma Church, Tampa/Florida
Mr. Koshy Varghese
Mrs. Molly Koshy
Ms. Linda Koshy
Mr. Kevin Koshy
4956 Ebensburg Drive
Tampa, FL 33647-1382
ch
.o
rg
Kottayam - Kochi Diocese
Rt. Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Philoxenos
Bethel Aramana, Manganam P. O.,
Kottayam - 686 018, Kerala, India
Tel : 0481 - 2573737 (P)
2578420 (O)
Fax : 0481 - 2570720
[email protected]
ac
hu
r
Diocesan Episcopa
24th December 2008
th
o
m
Message
m
ar
Greetings to the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church
of Delaware Valley on the occasion of the
Dedication of the Church
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
The existence of a Parish as a spiritual community becomes meaningful
through sharing the spiritual gifts, encouraging one another and experiencing
the warmth of fellowship. The life and witness of the faithful members will
surely help for the transformation of families and society and for the
expansion of the kingdom of God.
I wish and hope that the dedication of the church will be a time for
re-dedication and commitment to move forward with new vision of the
church, world and God. We are a called out community to witness God’s
love to the world through our life and worship. I congratulate the vicar and
the members of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware on this
occasion for your untiring efforts and commitment.
With best regards and prayers
Yours in His Service
Rt. Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa
25
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
26
ch
.o
rg
Trivandrum - Kollam Diocese
Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos
Mar Thoma Centre
Mannanthala P. O.
Trivandrum
Kerala, India
Ph: 0471-2530540
Fax: 0471-2531535
[email protected]
ac
hu
r
Diocesan Episcopa
Date: 26th October 2008
th
o
m
Message
Dearly beloved in Christ,
as
m
ar
I am so pleased to know that St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of
Delaware Valley, PA is planning to publish a Souvenir in connection
with the dedication service of the new Church Building. I join with all
the members of the parish in praising God for the guidance and
blessing in the construction.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
Our responsibility is to impart our great heritage to our younger
generation. Let them own the parish as their own. Families are the
source of our spirituality. Daily family prayers and studying the word
of God keeps you steady in this modern age. A church that is situated
in a village or a town should be a place where the presence of God is
proclaimed. Worshipping community should give credible Christian
witness to the people around.
My best wishes to the vicar and members of the parish. My prayers
are with you and may God bless you all.
Yours in Christ’s service,
Mar Paulos
27
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
28
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
29
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
30
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
31
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
33
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
35
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
37
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
39
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
41
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
43
ch
.o
rg
Office of the Mar Thoma Sabha Senior Vicar General
Thiruvalla
April 25, 2008
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
S. C. Seminary Hills
Thiruvalla
Kerala - 689 101, India
Phone: 0469 - 2630449
ar
MESSAGE
I
as
m
am very happy to note that the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley is dedicating the new
church property on 3rd of May and in connection with it you are publishing a Souvenir. Let us exalt God for the
blessings He has showered upon us. This is also a time to dedicate ourselves before God.
tth
om
The existence of a Parish as a worshipping community becomes meaningful through sharing the spiritual gifts,
encouraging one another and experiencing the warmth of fellowship. The life and witness of the worshippers
will surely help for the transformation of families and society and for the expansion of the Kingdom of God.
My best wishes and prayers for the function. May God bless you all.
w.
s
Yours in His service
Very Rev Abraham Samuel
ww
Senior Vicar General
44
ch
.o
rg
Office of the Mar Thoma Sabha Secretary
m
ac
hu
r
S. C. Seminary Hills
Thiruvalla
Kerala - 689 101, India
Phone: 0469 - 2630449 Extn. 101
(D): 0469 - 2630188
Fax: 0469 - 2630327
th
o
MESSAGE
m
ar
I am happy to know that the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Delaware Valley
is publishing a Souvenir in connection with the dedication of the church.
tth
om
as
I congratulate the Vicar and members of the Church who have toiled for the
church. May God Almighty continue to strengthen the parish to carry out the
mission of the Lord in the society to glorify Him.
w.
s
I wish the publication of the Souvenir all blessings from God. I also pray for
God’s choicest blessings upon the new parish.
Rev. K. M. Mammen
Sabha Secretary
ww
Tiruvalla,
24 April 2008
45
Rev. A. C. Kurian
ch
.o
rg
Mar Thoma Mission
Uttar Kannada District
Kumta - 581343
Karnataka State, India
June 30, 2008
ac
hu
r
Dear friends at St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley,
Iam happy to know that you are publishing a souvenir in connection with the dedication of your newly purchased church
m
building. Being the first vicar of the church, I am immensely happy to see the progress of the church. I still remember the
days when we began the parish in a rented church at a time which was not very convenient to us all. But since we did not
have choice we had to oblige to the availability of the building. But I was so happy to see the enthusiasm and the determination of the parishioners to attend the service and make it meaningful. The dynamic leadership of all the worshippers was
noteworthy.
th
o
The Sunday school, Sevika Sanghom, Youth fellowship, Yuvajana Sakhyam, Edavaka Mission and area prayer groups
were all formed and began functioning in first month itself. I received good encouragement and support from all the leaders
and committee members.
ar
I remember that the parish was determined to have church building of their own. The decision to look for a building was
taken in six months from the inception. The building was identified in another six months. The registration of the property
took place on the day I left USA. I was so happy to leave USA hearing the great news. It was not by any of our merits,
but the grace of God.
as
m
Shajiachen, who took over from me continued all the functions of organizations. His dynamic leadership is commendable.
I am happy to see the good leadership of Shajiachen and all the committee members in seeing the progress of the parish.
I wish you would continue the same fervor and enthusiasm that you had at the beginning.
tth
om
The life of the parish becomes meaningful when it witnesses to the goodness of the Lord. I pray that you will become a
mighty force of witness in the Delaware region. May the good Lord bless you to that extent.
As you publish this souvenir remember not to be satisfied with what you have achieved, but always keep the goal of soaring higher. Sky should be the limit.
May God bless you.
Yours in His Mission
ww
w.
s
Rev. A. C. Kurian*
46
*[1st Vicar-in-Charge: St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley]
(Nov 01, 2005 > May 14, 2006)
St. THOMAS MAR THOMA CHURCH of DELAWARE VALLEY
Church Established on November 01, 2005
Year 2006 Position
2007 2008 ch
.o
rg
MEMBERS of EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
2009 Rev. A. C. Kurian
Rev. Abraham Mathew
Vice President
Dr. Samuel K. Chacko
Mr. Joseph Mathew
Mr. John Philip
Mr. John Philip
Secretary
Mr. Joseph Mathew
Mr. Mathews T. Mathews
Mr. Jose George
Mr. Jose George
Joint Secretary
Mr. Varghese John
Mr. Jiju M. George
Mr. Ebyson Thomas
————X———
Treasurer
Mr. George Abraham
Mr. Samkutty Kunjachen
Mrs. Rachel Joseph
Accountant
Mr. Pappachen Mathai
Mr. Shaji V. Mathew
Mr. Shaji V. Mathew
Mr. Mathew T. Abraham
Lay Leader (Mal)
Mr. N. E. Thomas
Mr. Mathew Baby
Mr. Alex Jacob
Lay Leader (Eng)
Mr. Robert Joseph
Mr. Varghese M.
Pathisseril
Mr. Robert Joseph
Mr. Robert Joseph
Choir
Mr. Pramod Thomas
Mr. Pramod Thomas
Mr. Pramod Thomas
Mr. Mammen P. John
Sunday School
Mr. John Philip
Mr. Varghese John
Dr. George Abraham
Edavaka Mission
Mr. Philip Mathew
Mr. Philip Mathew
Mr. T. M. Chandy
Sevika Sanghom
Mrs. Elizabeth John
Mrs. Thankamma Thomas
Mrs. Mariamma Saji
Mrs. Thankamma Thomas
Yuvajana Sakhyam
Mr. Joseph George
Mr. Thomas Samuel
Mr. Ebyson Thomas
Mr. Thomas Samuel
ar
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
Vicar / President
tth
om
as
m
Mr. John Philip
Ms. Sarene Mathew
Ms. Sini Mathew
Ms. Sherin George
Mr. Joel Koshy
Carmel Prayer Group
Mr. Shaji V. Mathew
Mr. Mathew Baby
Mr. Koshy Joseph
Mr. Koshy Joseph
Horeb Prayer Group
Mr. Ebyson Thomas
Mr. Joseph A. Koshy
Mr. Thomas Samuel
Mrs. Susan Ebyson
Moriah Prayer Group
Mr. Daniel Koshy
Mr. Mannoor Thomas
Sinai Prayer Group
Mr. Philip Thomas
Mr. Cherian C. Cherian
Mr. Chacko Thomas
Church Building
Projects
Mr. Saji Jacob
Mr. Saji Jacob
Mr. Saji Jacob
————X————
Diocesan Assembly
Mr. Mammen P. John
Mr. Mammen P. John
Mr. Joseph Mathew
Mr. Joseph Mathew
Sabha Mandalam
————X————
————X————
Mr. Thomas Philips*
Mr. Thomas Philips*
ww
w.
s
Youth Fellowship
* Subject to the confirmation of Mar Thoma Sabha Office, Thiruvalla
47
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
NOTE: The 18th Marthoma, the Most Rev. Dr. Juhanon Mar Thoma Metropolitan provided the Church
with an emblem reading the motto: “Lighted to Lighten”
48
ch
.o
rg
Mar Thoma Church
METROPOLITAN
ac
hu
r
‘POOLATHEEN’
THIRUVALLA 689 101
KERALA, INDIA
PHONE: 0469-2630313 (O), 2601210 (P)
Fax: 0469 2602626
Blessings to the Members of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Delaware Valley, PA.
The Episcopal Synod, which met on 15th & 16th of September 2005, has decided to accept you to the status of a
parish with effect from 1st November 2005 under the following conditions.
th
o
2. They should pay every year $ 1044 as Nithyachilavu.
m
1. The parish shall be known as “St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Delaware Valley PA”.
3. Rev. A.C. Kurian will be their vicar. His salary and other allowances will be communicated to you by the
Diocesan Bishop.
m
ar
I am happy to welcome you as a parish of the Mar Thoma Church. I exhort you to live worthy of your calling to be a
part of the body of Christ. Devotion to the Lord, loyalty to the Church, adherence to the discipline of the Church,
unity of the believers and service to the community should mark you out as servants of God.
as
A formal meeting of the Edavaka Sanghom will be convened by the vicar at which the officers for the New Year
should be elected and reported to the Diocesan Office for approval. The parish should be divided into prayer groups.
They should elect their representatives to the Kaisthana Samathi.
tth
om
Arrangements should be made for the function of Sevika Sanghom, Sunday School, Yuvajana Sakhyam and
Voluntary Evangelists Association.
All the necessary registers should be bought and will kept by the concerned officers.
w.
s
May God’s blessings and guidance be with you always.
ww
11.10.2005
Copy to The Diocesan Bishop, Diocese of North America & Europe.
Sabha Secretary
65
THE DIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA & EUROPE
ch
.o
rg
The Mar Thoma Church
Sinai Mar Thoma Center
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos
2320 S. Merrick Avenu
Merrick, NY 11566
Tel: (516) 377-3311
Fax: (516) 377-3322
Email: [email protected]
Diocesan Bishop
The Rev. Dr. K. A. Abraham
Bishop’s/Diocesan Secretary
Mr. T. A. Mathew
ac
hu
r
Diocesan Treasurer
m
DC/559/05
10/25/2005
th
o
BLESSINGS TO THE MEMBERS OF ST. THOMAS MAR THOMA
CHURCH, DELAWARE VALLEY, PA
Dearly beloved in Christ,
as
m
ar
As per the kalpana of the Metropolitan dated Oct. 11, 2005 a new church by
name St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church will be formed in Pennsylvania from
Nov. 6, 2005. A few members of that Parish have expressed their willingness to be
the members of the new Parish. They will remit their monthly subscription dues
to the mother parish. The vicar will issue the Transfer Certificate on request to the
new parish on or before Dec. 1, 2005.
tth
om
Rev. A. C. Kurien is appointed as the vicar of the new Parish. You should pay him
a salary share of $ 387 (per month), $ 75 as a salary adjustment fund and $ 1044 as
Nityachilavu (per annum) to the Diocesan office. You should also pay ¼ of
Achen’s medical insurance to the Ascension Mar Thoma Church, PA.
ww
w.
s
May God bless you
Yours in His service,
66
Diocesan Bishop
Cc: Rev. A. C. Kurien
A tête-à-tête with the 20th Mar Thoma Metropolitan –
ch
.o
rg
The Most Rt. Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom
- Mathews Tharakan Mathews
Puthencavu - August 20, 2005
H
m
activities of Mar Thoma Church. Rev. Sunny George by
way of introduction mentioned about the formation of
the proposed St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of
It was a cool August morning for our august meeting
with the Metropolitan at the Bishop’s abode: Poolatheen
at Thiruvalla. When I called on His Holiness with my
family, I wondered he could be in a pensive mood; but
found quite relaxed as he was glancing through his
treasured books and memorabilia. We were greeted by
the great shepherd with a big smile. Thirumeni’s
confidant Rev. Sunny George (former Vicar, Mar Thoma
Church of Philadelphia) also joined us.
Delaware Valley. Thirumeni explained the procedures
and stated that the proposal should be submitted to the
Synod through the Diocesan Bishop. I informed
Thirumeni that a representation for the proposed church
intends to meet him during the week, to which the
dynamic enabler who zealously heads the Mar Thoma
Church, agreed to give an audience.
I recalled Thirumeni, as a young Episcopa who visited
Singapore in 1955, where I had spent my decade-long
childhood. He drew his love and interacted with the
children and youth, which depicted in him a great
character of Godly love and care. I believe such
embodiment of affection we longed to cherish in the
Among the proponents of the church, Mr. Cherian C.
Cherian and Mr. Samkutty Kunjachen joined me Tuesday
August 09th 2005 to meet the Metropolitan with our
proposal for the new church, the first to be established
in the western suburbs of Philadelphia and the fourth
one in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We spent
some splendid moments with him.
Contd... page 69
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
The sense of humor and the lighter side of Thirumeni is
familiar to all Malayalees, in particular to the
Marthomites worldwide. Sometimes the best humor is
deadly serious. I’ve often wondered why. One reason
could be that a compassionate sense of humor requires a
broad perspective on the human condition, and
accounting for many points of view. Surely true leaders
have it. You’ll find a sense of humor essential to living
with ambiguity. The octogenarian spiritual leader known
for his golden tongue is acceptable to people from all
walks of life. He retains his compassion, humility and
simplicity.
ac
hu
r
a...!Ha…!!Ha…!!! Our Metropolitan burst into laughter, when I had also cracked
a joke in return to his. His Holiness proved his unflagging ability to rouse one’s heart
and challenge one’s mind. One doesn’t attend a talk by Thirumeni for entertainment,
although he is noted for his wry humor. We know his rarely sugar coated themes are
challenges to society and the church as a whole.
67
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
An introduction to 20th Mar Thoma Metropolitan
The Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom
Having inherited the missionary zeal from his father,
Vicar General Very Rev. K. E. Oommen, he graduated
from U. C. College, Alwaye and took up the work at the
Ankola Ashram along with Rev. P. J. Thomas. He
received theological education at UTC Bangalore and
St. Augustine’s College, Canterbury. He became an
ordained minister of the church in 1944 and was
consecrated as Bishop with Alexander Mar Theophilus
and Thomas Mar Athanasius on May 23, 1953.
His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom
Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan is the longest reigning
bishop in India.
th
o
Thirumeni was famous as a Missionary Bishop. He was
President of the National Christian Council of India and
has attended the Assembly of World Council of Churches
at Evanston in 1954 and at Upsala in 1968. He has
attended the second Vatican Council and has thus made
very valuable contributions to the ecumenical cause. He
has deep concern for uplifting the backward
communities. Through a registered organization named
STARD (South Travancore Agency for Rural
Development) he has helped economically backward
communities of southern Kerala to improve their lot and
achieve self-reliance.
enabler, prolific orator, voracious reader, pungent writer,
tactful negotiator, valiant defender of the law,
compassionate at heart and a wonderful team man. He
respects diversity of opinion, but would not easily budge
or compromise ethical principles.
ch
.o
rg
2007, His Grace the Most Rev. Dr.
Philipose Mar Chrysostom was elevated as Mar Thoma
Valiya Metropolitan. A radiant Valiya Metropolitan,
who became a nonagenarian in 2008, is a living example
of what he believes – that teaching is more important
than preaching.
ac
hu
r
nd
m
On October 02
tth
om
as
m
ar
Date of Birth
Ordained as Deacon
Ordained as Kasseessa
Ordained as Ramban
Consecrated as Episcopa
Designated as Suffragan Metropolitan
Designated as Officiating Metropolitan
Installed as Metropolitan
Designated as Valiya Metropolitan
The administrative acumen of His Grace is far beyond
what words can express. He is a spiritual leader, dynamic
Contd. from page No. 67
April 27, 1918
January 1, 1944
June 3, 1944
May 20, 1953
May 23, 1953
May, 1978
March 15, 1999
October 23, 1999
October 2, 2007
w.
s
After the wedding of our daughter, on Wednesday
August 17th once again we decided to meet the Patriarch
of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church for grabbing his
special blessings.
ww
Thirumeni blessed the new Kaapaa (vestment) - the
ceremonial mantle - worn by the clergymen, who
always celebrates the Holy Communion, which we were
bringing along with other items, viz. various Church
Registers, Worship & Hymn books for the new parish.
He offered all blessings for our new endeavor and
prayed for all those believers in Christ.
69
ch
.o
rg
George Abraham, Dr
460 N. Apple Tree Lane, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
610-825-9527
02
George Abraham
124 Chatham Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-1349
03
Mathew T. Abraham
764 Burnley Circle, Springfield, PA 19064
610-328-0611
04
Mathew Abraham
756 Meadowbrook Drive, Coatesville, PA 19320
610-384-5527
05
Saab Abraham
509 Ellis Road, Havertown, PA 19083
610-446-5474
06
Saji V. Abraham
33 Overhill Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-3103
07
Sony Abraham
121 Ashton Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-734-3713
08
K. P. Alexander
612 Barclay Circle, Springfield, PA 19064
610-622-4402
09
K. Aniyankunju
105 Fairview Ave, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-924-0261
10
Mathew Baby
101 S. Lynn Blvd., Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-449-3432
11
P. G. Chacko
1001 Asmore Way, Chester Spring, PA 19425
610-363-5278
12
Saji K. Chacko
137 Chatham Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-0385
13
Samuel K. Chacko, Dr
217 Rushley Way, Media, PA 19063
610-459-3715
14
Susan Chandy
106 Overhill Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-734-3212
15
T. M. Chandy
355 Sussex Blvd., Broomall, PA 19008
610-353-7097
16
Cherian C. Cherian
732 Windsor Place, Wallingford, PA 19086
610-876-2368
17
Feji Cherian
610-876-2368
18
Fenu Cherian
201 Coyote Run, Mullica Hill, Gloucester, NJ 08062
856-223-5816
19
Joy V. Cherian
417 Foster Street, Springfield, PA 19064
610-690-7491
20
Benson Daniel
222 Oliver Dr, Chester Spring, PA 19425
484-202-8033
21
Mathew K. Daniel
2003 Jessica Lane, West Chester, PA 19380
610-738-0889
22
tth
om
732 Windsor Place, Wallingford, PA 19086
Jiju M. George
6445 Market St, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-7246
23
Joseph George
852 Williamsburg Blvd, Downingtown, PA 19335
610-518-6865
24
Alex Jacob
33B Marian Ct, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-0495
25
Anil C. Jacob
122 Holly Drive, Swedesboro, NJ 08085
856-467-2497
26
Saji Jacob
11 Devonshire Lane, Malvern, PA 19355
610-695-0606
27
Daniel John
4665 Park Lane, Aston, PA 19014
610-494-7002
28
Mammen P. John
246 Wencin Terrace, West Chester, PA 19382
610-738-7227
29
Varghese John
100 Grandview Rd, Springfield, PA 19064
610-543-5062
ww
70
ac
hu
r
Address
as
m
ar
th
o
m
Name in Full
w.
s
Member
No:
01
Phone Contact
Pradeep Jose
717 St. Francis Dr., Broomall, PA 19008
610-356-4226
31
Koshy Joseph
177 Wellington Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-6290
32
Robert M. Joseph
101 Harvest Lane, Broomall, PA 19008
33
Biju Kalathil, Dr
1204 East Autumn Ct, Collegeville, PA 19426
34
George E. Kattathara
512 Fairfield Ave, Upper Darby, PA19082
35
Daniel Koshy
336 Warren Blvd., Broomall, PA 19008
36
George Kovoor
505 Lyman Avenue, Womelsdorf, PA 19567
37
Samkutty Kunjachen
731 Hinchley Run, West Chester, PA 19382
38
Abraham Kurien
19 Carriage Circle, Royersford, PA 19468
610 948 3315
39
Thomas T. Kurien
47 Walnut Street, Clifton Heights, PA 19018
610-623-1143
40
Mammen Kuzhuvelil
610-623-1143
41
Leji K. Mammen
610-623-2815
42
Pappachen Mathai
1013 Millison Rd, Springfield, PA 19064
610-544-8640
43
Binny Mathew
262 Yorktown Court, Malvern, PA 19355
610-651-0281
44
Geevarghese Mathew
44 Erna Court, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-8183
45
Joseph Mathew
101 Harvest Lane, Broomall, PA 19008
610-359-9093
46
Joy Mathew
107 Marlborough Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-5546
47
K. O. Mathew
7 Chatham Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-352-2205
48
Kuruvilla Mathew
610-734-1423
49
Lalu Mathew
6906 Baltimore Ave., Lansdowne, PA 19050
610-626-2535
50
Leny Mathew
4417 Spruce St, Apt#3A, Philadelphia, PA 19104
215-382-1583
51
Philip Mathew
121 Ashton Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
610-734-3713
52
Philip Mathew
1034 Skyline Circle, Audubon, PA 19403
610-650-0895
53
Shaji V. Mathew
106 Overhill Rd, Upper Darby, PA19082
610-734-3212
54
Thomas Mathew
610-352-7162
55
Varghese Mathew
206 Harrison Ave, Clifton Heights, PA 19018
610-626-9246
56
Varghese Mathew
610-352-8617
57
Mathews T. Mathews
513 Susan Dr., King of Prussia, PA 19406
610-505-4012
58
A. K. Mathukutty
10 Capano Dr, Apt A5, Newark, DE 19702
302-737-0256
59
Thomas N. Ediculla
2517 Harding Ave., Broomall, PA 19008
610-356-1060
60
Binu T. Pappachen, Dr
855 N. Park Rd., Apt. Q 101, Wyomissing, PA 19610
610-372-3109
61
Varghese Pathisseril
2003 Jessica Lane, West Chester, PA 19380
610-738-0889
62
Abraham Philip
310 Tarbert Dr., West Chester, PA 19382
610-696-2739
63
Binoy Philip
30 Maple Terrace, Clifton Heights, PA 19018
610-284-7997
610-359-9093
610-539-8583
610-352-1394
610-353-6526
610-589-1732
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
30
610-430-0997
64
John Philip
302 Joseph Dr., West Chester, PA 19380
610-430-8576
65
Paduthodu V. Philip
410 Lyndhurst Dr., Broomall, PA 19008
610-356-1430
66
T. C. Philip
44 Pleasant Hill Dr., Glen Mills, PA 19342
610-558-9042
67
Thomas Philips
344 Avon Rd., Apt. L344, Devon, PA 19333
610-293-0760
68
Thomas Samuel
239 Polo Dr., North Wales, PA 19454
215-362-1940
71
Jee C. Tharakan
10119 Dawndeer Lane, Richmond, VA 23238
804-754-4230
70
Chacko Thomas
267 Windsor Drive, Swedesboro, NJ 08085
856-467-6240
71
Ebyson Thomas
4154 Serenity St, Schwenksville, PA 19473
72
Jacob Thomas
427 Foster Dr., Springfield, PA 19064
73
M. C. Thomas
427 Foster Dr., Springfield, PA 19064
74
Mannoor Thomas
997 Meadow view Lane, West Chester, PA 19382
75
Oommen C. Thomas
47 Homestead Ln., Robesonia, PA 19551
76
Philip Thomas
311 Fairview Rd, Springfield, PA 19064
77
Philip Thomas
34 Kent Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082
484-461-8381
78
Pramod Thomas
1305 Colwell Lane, Conshohocken, PA 19428
610-834-1911
79
Alexander P. Varghese
3813 Oakland Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18017
610-691-5765
80
Jacob Varghese
2017 Windsor Dr., Collegeville, PA 19426
610-831-0125
81
P. T. Varghese
610-352-9102
82
Soman Varghese
146 Regents Road, Collegeville, PA 19426
610-489-6556
83
Kuruvilla T. Varughese
419 Pembroke Ave., E. Lansdowne, PA 19050
610-622-5980
84
Cherian Verghese, Dr
5610 Limeport Road, Emmaus, PA 18049
610-966-9990
85
Sheela M. Zachariah
1520 Green Hill Cr., Berwyn, PA 19312
610-202-8804
ch
.o
rg
69
610-628-4355
610-338-0921
610-338-0921
610-429-1211
610-693-6484
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
610-328-6283
ww
Rev. George C. Mathew, a Senior Clergy of the Mar Thoma Church (Virginia domiciled) addressed the gathering. Steering Committee
General Convener, Dr. George Abraham and Coordinators, Mr. John Philip and Mr. Joseph Mathew also spoke on that occasion.
72
ch
.o
rg
First Church Executive Committee Members
Rev. A. C. Kurian
m
ac
hu
r
(Elected by the General Body on January 1st 2006)
Vicar (May 14, 2006 - April 30, 2009)
Mathews T. Mathews
Pappachen Mathai
Joseph Mathew
Treasurer
Accountant
Secretary
John Varughese
Philip Mathew
Elizabeth John
John Philip
Joint Secretary
Edavaka Mission
Sevika Sanghom
Sunday School
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
Vicar (Nov. 01, 2005 - May 14, 2006)
ww
w.
s
Vice President
89
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
Shaji V. Mathew
Philip Thomas
Ebyson Thomas
Moriah Prayer Group
Carmel Prayer Group
Sinai Prayer Group
Horeb Prayer Group
Pramod Thomas
Sarene Mathew
Joseph George
Mammen P. John
Youth Fellowship
Yuvajana Sakhyam
Diocesan Assembly
ww
w.
s
tth
om
Choir Director
as
m
ar
th
o
m
Samkutty Kunjachen
90
Mathew T. Abraham
Robert Joseph
Saji Jacob
Lay Leader (Malayalam)
Lay Leader (English)
Church Building Projects
A Consolidated Report:
ch
.o
rg
Church Building Projects
– St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley –
ac
hu
r
The Malvern property at 130 Grubb Road was first
identified in November of 2006 as being for sale. Once
we identified this property as a suitable property for us,
meeting our needs, we met with the Willistown Township
Officials - Mr. William Rosenberry (Zoning officer) and
Mrs. Rita Reeves (Chairman of the Planning Commission).
Our Meeting with these officials was truly remarkable,
when they gave us the comfort and stretched a welcoming
hand to initiate the Zoning process. At this stage we also
sought the guidance of Mrs. Wendy McLean, Esq. Mrs.
Wendy McLean gave us exceptional support in providing
us the necessary Legal Counsel throughout the zoning and
construction related needs of our Church.
Continued to next page
th
o
A Church Building Committee, which was formed in
February of 2006 comprised of 16 members, 12 elected
from our General Body and 4 ex-officio members from
the Church Executive Committee.
in early 2006. The work we were able to accomplish as
we pursued zoning requirements for the Edgemont
property led us to easily transition into acquiring the
current property, both financially and with experience in
understanding the Township Land Planning and
Development Process.
m
It has been an incredible journey for members of the St.
Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley, in
forming and building our Church in the western suburbs
of Philadelphia. There has been a lot of energy, enthusiasm,
challenges, and creativeness in raising funds, acquiring
land, obtaining Township zoning and construction
approvals, developing a design, constructing an altar,
parsonage and church kitchen within a 3-year time frame
from formation. We truly experienced God’s abundance
grace and blessings during the implementation of this
project.
as
m
ar
The expeditious work and progress could not have been
achieved without God’s immense grace on the Church
allowing various people to contribute in many ways in the
formation and completion of this project. Most of all the
Church Building Committee took an active role in working
towards this project. The Church Executive Committee and
Church General Body provided timely review and approval
of various proposals helping streamline this project.
tth
om
Rev. A. C. Kurien and Rev. Shaji M. Thomas presided over
this committee during their respective terms as vicar of
our church. Mr. Pappachan Mathai, Mr. Joseph Mathew
and Mr. George Abraham served as Ex-Officio members
during 2006 and 2007, in the Church Building Committee.
Without the team work we had in this committee, support
from Executive Committee and various members of our
church, this would have been a more difficult task to
accomplish in this time duration.
ww
w.
s
One of the first activities we did was to lay out a
requirement for our Parish, and outline any growth needs
we may have over the next 5-10 years. As we started
reviewing various properties in Chester and Delaware
Counties, we capitalized on the momentum that was gained
for this project and built on it.
In looking and evaluating several properties, that were
identified and looked into by the committee, we pursued
two properties seriously. One was in Edgemont Township
Standing top row (left to right) : Mr. Joseph George (Lalu), Dr. George Abraham,
Mr. Mathews T. Mathews (Ravy), Mr. Shaji V. Mathew, Dr. Samuel K. Chacko.
Standing second row (left to right) : Mr. Saji Jacob (Convener), Mr. Thomas
Mannoor, Mr. Samkutty Kunjachen, Mrs. Shiny Thomas, Mr. John Philip,
Mr. Pappachan Mathai, Mr. Joseph Mathew, Mr. Chacko Thomas.
Sitting (left to right) : Rev. Shaji M. Thomas, Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos,
Rev. George Mathew.
Missing in photo: Mr. Jose George, Mrs. Rachel Joseph (Molly) and Mr.
George Abraham.
[From May 2009 Rev. Abraham Mathew serves as our parish vicar]
91
ch
.o
rg
Once acquisition took place, we quickly started developing
and reviewing preliminary plans to construct our Altar and
Parsonage. We met with various architects and selected to
use the services of Mr. Banny Jesudasan, of JLM Design
Group. Banny quickly blended with our team and acted
on our behalf in obtaining necessary township approvals
and selection of Contractors for the construction of our
Altar, Parsonage & Church Kitchen. Our hope and intent
was to work with local construction firms with reputation.
We chose to use F J Rossi & Co. (Frank Rossi), to build
our Altar for two reasons – Frank’s father built the old
portion of this building and Frank built the Banquet Hall
in 2004. RC Company, another local firm, was selected to
build our parsonage & church kitchen, which was
completed by the end of 2008. Our Construction Subcommittee comprising of Mr. Philip Mathew, Mr. Jose
George, Dr. George Abraham (Christy), Mr. John Philip
and Dr. Sam Chacko, worked through the various quick
decisions we needed to make and facilitate the construction
of the Altar, Parsonage & Church kitchen expeditiously.
Throughout this process, various members of our parish
provided tremendous amount of support in painting,
cleaning, installation of flooring, insulation, etc. A few
people outside of our Church that provided us guidance
were Mr. John Mathew, Church Building Convener of
Ascension Mar Thoma Church, Mr. Jacob Chacko, Church
Building Convener of Chicago St. Thomas Mar Thoma
Church and various others. We utilized the services of
Andrew Jacob Mills (Yiorgo) for Communion Rails,
Podiums, Thronos and related support needs, and Abe of
Summerdale Fabrics to build the Curtain, Motor and
related structures.
th
o
Our fundraising activities were led by Mrs. Rachel Joseph,
Mrs. Shiny Thomas, Dr. George Abraham and Mr.
Mathews T. Mathews. The financial demands on our parish
members have been enormous over the past 3 years to
support this project. With permission from our Diocesan
Bishop we were able to seek financial support from our
sister parishes, which greatly helped to reduce our financial
burden. We initiated several fund raising projects over the
past 3 years. All church sub organizations – Edavaka
Mission, Sunday School, Youth Fellowship, Choir,
Yuvajana Sakhyam – were actively involved and generated
funds to support this project. Our Major projects were:
Due to our financial needs, we sought loans from local
Banks. Our challenges were that we were an institution
with limited Credit History, Low Equity, etc. due to our
recent formation. These are typically not favorable factors
when seeking loans from Banking Institutions. Under the
leadership of Mr. John Philip, with support from Mr.
Oommen C. Thomas, Mr. Joseph George, Mr. Joseph
Mathew, Mr. Pappachan Mathai and Mr. Mathews T.
Mathews, we met with various Banks and discussed our
needs. We followed a few basic principles as we sought
these loans, and both Bryn Mawr Trust Bank and Malvern
Federal Savings Banks were willing to work with us and
support us in making this acquisition happen.
ac
hu
r
Under the leadership of Dr. Samuel K. Chacko, a zoning
sub-committee initiated our zoning application, met with
the Board of Supervisors at a Zoning Hearing in early 2007.
We were granted the necessary zoning approvals to use
this property as a Place of Worship with provisions for a
resident vicar and family on the premises.
Our major projects upcoming in 2009 are the Souvenir
project (led by Mathews T Mathews), targeted for release
in 2009 and a Cook Book project (led by Mrs. Shiny
Thomas). We also had magnanimous donations made
towards this project by our sister parish members and other
Indian ethnic communities.
m
We acquired this property from Veterans of Foreign War
(VFW) local chapter in Malvern on April 30, 2007.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
BMW Raffle draw project – conducted in 2007. This
project generated around 170K and was led by Mrs. Rachel
Joseph (Molly). Mr. Mathew Baby and Mr. Mathews T.
Mathews were recognized for selling the maximum
number of Raffle Tickets for this project.
A Christian Musical CD sale project (donated by our
member Mr. Jacob Varghese [Sunny], and sold by Yuvajana
Sakhyam) generated around 14K. Mr. Joseph George
(Lalu) and Thomas Samuel (Shibu) were the respective
secretaries of the Yuvajana Sakhyam in 2006 and 2007,
who coordinated the sale of the CDs, helping raise funds
from this project.
Swarna Shekhara Sthothrakazcha project, led by John
and Nirmala Mammen also raised a good amount of money
for our project.
Jewelry Sale Project, led by Drs. George and Mini
Abraham.
Car Wash Project, a joint effort with Gentle Touch Car
Wash, led by Mrs. Elizabeth John and Mr. Samkutty
Kunjachan.
Gift Card and e-Scrip Visa Card project initiated and
led by Mrs. Sara Jacob and Mrs. Susan Ebyson has been,
and continues to be an innovative source of funds for us.
This project is currently being run by Mrs. Lisa Mathew.
Mini Raffle Project led by Mr. Joseph Koshy and Mr.
Jiju George was another successful project, which raised
over $25,000 towards our church building funds.
92
ch
.o
rg
construction contractors, etc. At the public ceremony a
lamp was lit symbolizing the dedication of this new church.
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas made introductory remarks, Mr.
John Philip, Convener of the Dedication Committee then
welcomed all invited guests to the function. Dr. Samuel
K. Chacko provided an overview of the history of
formation of our church. Mr. Saji Jacob, Church Building
Committee Convener outlined the Church Building
projects from formation of the building committee,
acquisition of land, securing zoning, raising funds,
designing altar and parsonage and the related construction
activities.
ac
hu
r
Mr. Joseph George then facilitated the unveiling of a
plaque by Rt. Rev. Euyakim Mar Coorilos Episcopa,
dedicating our church. Mr. Mathews T. Mathews, Souvenir
Committee Convener invited Thirumeni to present a copy
of the church dedication commemorative souvenir to Rev.
Binu John, Vicar of New Jersey Mar Thoma Church,
Randolph releasing the first copy of Souvenir, which will
be finally published in 2009.
m
Consecration / Dedication
On May 3, 2008, Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos
Episcopa, Diocesan Bishop of North America and Europe
dedicated the newly built Altar and Sanctuary for St.
Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley. In
addition to Thirumeni, clergies from our Diocese as well
as other local churches attended this function. Various
dignitaries attended this function, including Indian
consulate representative, Township chairman, vice-chair,
Pennsylvania state representative, and well wishers from
sister parishes in and around Pennsylvania. Thirumeni also
celebrated the Holy Communion at this newly dedicated
Altar & Church on Sunday, May 4, 2008.
Photos of Sanctuary
ar
th
o
Following these activities the various dignitaries and well
wishers made felicitation to the members of St. Thomas
Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley. These included
Mr. Cherian Thomas, Indian Consulate General, New York,
Township officials, Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Biju S.
Cherian, and several priests & layman from surrounding
parishes, including the ecumenical fellowship of
Philadelphia. The audience was also blessed with the
wonderful songs sung by the young choir as well as a
wonderful ensemble of orchestra by the children and youth
of St. Thomas Church of Delaware Valley.
Continued to next page
Photos of Church as seen in two seasons
tth
om
as
m
Construction Inauguration – January 19, 2008
Church Consecration – May 03, 2008
ww
w.
s
Program Outline
The dedication ceremony started with a procession of all
members and well wishers and the traditional handing of
keys from our Trustees – Mr. Samkutty Kunjachan and
Mr. Shaji V. Mathew to the Diocesan Bishop. Thirumeni
then proceeded to dedicate the newly built Altar & church
sanctuary. A public ceremony was held after the dedication
services, which was attended by several hundred people,
members, sister parishioners, neighbors, well wishers,
93
Members enrolled at formation = 85 families
ch
.o
rg
Project Statistics:
Land Acquisition - $1.73M
Altar Construction - $85K
Parsonage Construction - $215K
Miscellaneous/Other - $100K
Timeline:
Project Start – Feb 2006
Land Acquisition – April of 2007
Altar Constructed – May of 2008
Parsonage Constructed – Aug of 2008
Facilities:
Land Area - 3.75 Acres
Parking Spaces - > 150
Church Seating - 450
Parish Hall Seating - Approx 200
Facility Total Sq Footage - > 14,000 sq ft
Parsonage – Finished Outside
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
In August of 2008, our church also completed construction
of an adjoining Parsonage, which is a 3 bedroom, 2½ bathresidence to accommodate our vicar and family. Dedication
of the Parsonage was done on August 31, 2008. Our church
kitchen construction was also taken up and completed in
the last quarter of 2008, concluding all major construction
activities to make this a suitable place of worship for our
parish and community.
m
ac
hu
r
Parsonage – Finished Inside
ww
w.
s
New Church - Handing of Keys
94
Procession inside Church
New Church Property - Signing of Title Deed
Our drive and focus is to blend in the community we live
in, and be active in its growth and well being. The
leadership & talent that have been portrayed in the
execution of this project will be utilized for the betterment
of not only our community, but also addressing social and
cultural needs in our surroundings. As we look back, we
as a parish are grateful to the almighty God and thankfully
remember how miraculously he has guided us, provided
for us and led us to form and build our church in this area.
While we still have challenges remaining to reduce our
financial burdens, God’s abundance grace, that has been
on us so far, will guide and lead us to overcome these
challenges.
Saji Jacob
Convener - Church Building Committee
St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church (2006 - 2008)
Report provided on: July 10, 2009
ch
.o
rg
m
ac
hu
r
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas & Family
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
th
o
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas, born on November 11, 1965 is the eldest son of Evangelist V. T. Mathai and
Chinnamma of Veluthedathu Parambil family at Pallikkuthu, near Chungathara in north Malabar. After
his graduation from Mar Thoma College, Chungathara, young Shaji Thomas joined the Mar Thoma
Seminary in Kottayam for the studies in theology and graduated in Bachelor of Divinity. On June 15,
1993 as a first step for priesthood, he was ordained as Deacon at the S. C. Seminary, Thiruvalla. Later on
July 3rd 1993, Shaji Thomas got ordained as a priest by Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa
at Chungathara. As a dèbutant priest, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas assumed duty at Andaman & Nicobar Islands
(Vicar & Missionary). Then he served the following parishes and church institutions before coming to the
USA in May 2006: Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Kottayam (Asst. Vicar), St.Thomas Mar Thoma Church,
Munnar (Vicar & Missionary), Moriah Mar Thoma Church, Ericad, Kottayam (Vicar), and Mochana
De-addiction & Counselling Center, Manganam (Asso. Director). Shaji achen was the first resident vicar
of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley, Malvern, Pennsylvania State, USA from May 2006
till April 2009. Upon returning to India he is assigned to the Mar Thoma Center at Kunnamkulam,
Thrissur District, Kerala. Shaji achen’s baskiamo is Sobha Mary (D/o. Rev. N. I. Mathai, Edamala,
Kumplampoika, Pathanamthitta) and they have two sons, Ashish T. Mathew and Joel T. Mathew.
95
Rev. Abraham Mathew (Kochukoickal) & Family
m
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
Rev. Abraham Mathew (B.Th., BD) assumed
duties on May 27, 2009 for a three year term
as the second Resident Vicar of St. Thomas
Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley.
He is a native of Kochukoickal in
Pathanamthitta District and belongs to
Kolath Koyickmannil family. Rev. Abraham
Mathew affectionately known as Thambi
Achen was ordained Deacon on July 20,
1991 and was later consecrated into Priesthood on August 10, 1991. Prior to his assignment to the USA, as Vicar he had served
various Mar Thoma Churches in Kerala
State at Nilambur, Kattumunda, Puliyoor,
Thalavady,
Narakathany
and
Karthamankal, besides Jhancy Mar Thoma
Church in North India. Earlier he had also
held special positions at Santhi-Mandiram
Mission Field, Secunderabad (Andhra
Pradesh State) and as Coordinator for
Grama-Jyothi Schools at New Delhi.
th
o
Rev. Abraham Mathew and baskiamo, Sudha Abraham
flanked by daughter, Sharon and son, Sachin
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
Photographed on August 16, 2009
1st Vicar-in-Charge
Rev. A. C. Kurian and baskiamo
Aleykutty with daughters, Anita & Anila
96
Youth Chaplain
Rev. Mathew Skariah & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#001 Dr. George Abraham & Family
#002 Mr. George Abraham & Family
Church Consecration Souvenir 169
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#003 Mr. Mathew T. Abraham & Family
#005 The Abraham Family: Mammen, Mary, Saab, Jessy & Jonathan
Mammen & Mary with their grandchildren Zachary, Christopher, Benjamin, Alexander, Jonathan, Luke and Olivia
170 Church Consecration Souvenir
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#006 Mr. Saji V. Abraham & Family
#008 Mr. Alexander K. Pappachen & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#010 Mr. Mathew Baby & Family
#015 Mr. T. M. Chandy & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#016 Mr. Cherian C. Cherian & Family
#018 Mr. Fenu Cherian & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#019a Dr. Alex S. Kuryan & Family
#021 Mr. K. Daniel Mathew & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#022 Mr. Jiju M. George & Family
#024 Mr. Alex Jacob & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#025 Mr. Anil C. Jacob & Family
#026 Mr. Saji Jacob & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#028 Mr. Mammen John & Family
#029 Mr. John Varughese & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#031 Mr. Koshy Joseph & Family
#037 Mr. Samkutty Kunjachen & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#038 Mr. Abraham Kurien & Family
#042 Mr. Pappachen Mathai & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#047 Mr. K. O. Mathew & Family
#057 Mr. Mathews T. Mathews & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
#061 Mr. Varghese M. Pathisseril & Family
#064 Mr. John Philip & Family
(Cindy, Somy, Sissy, Sony, Johny, and our Ammachy, Mary Philip)
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
#065 Mr. Paduthottu V. Philip & Family
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
Mr. P. V. Philip & Mrs. Gracy Philip
with children: Shibu, Sheeja, Sheela, and grandsons: Kirin & Navin
#066 Mr. T. C. Philip & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#068 Mr. Samuel Thomas & Family
#070 Mr. Chacko Thomas & Family
Mr. Chacko Thomas (Micky) & Mrs Susan Chacko with sons: Sumin, Abyin & Mithun
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#074 Mr. Mannoor Thomas & Family
#078 Mr. Pramod Thomas & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#080 Mr. Jacob Varghese & Family
#082 Mr. Soman Varghese & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#084 Dr. Cherian Verghese & Family
#086 Mr. Joseph A. Koshy & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
#088 Mr. Daniel F. Creskoff & Family
#091 Mr. George Thomas & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#092 Mr. Vinod Abraham & Family
#093 Mr. Yohannan Chacko & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#095 Mr. Jose George & Family
#098 Mr. Kunjumon Geevarghese & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#099 Mr. Ani Alexander & Family
#101 Mr. George V. Mammen & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
#104 Dr. Sony John & Family
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
Baby, Josiah Thomas John flanked by parents, Drs. Sony & Sissy John
#107 Mr. Paul Mathew & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
#108 Mr. Jacob John & Family
#110 Mr. Santhosh Abraham & Family
Baby, Meghan flanked by her parents, Jeena & Santhosh
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
m
ar
#112 Mr. Sajan Varughese & Family
#113 Mr. Tom Varughese & Family
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
THOMAS K. VARGHESE (BONEY)
Called to Eternity: September 19, 2008
ww
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now
there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous
Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who
have longed for his appearing.”
– 2 Timothy 4:7 & 8
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
[Parents of Mr. T. M. Chandy]
ar
Prof. T. P. Mathew & Mrs. Sosamma Mathew
Mr. P. I. Isaac & Mrs. Mariamma Isaac
[Parents of Mrs. Mariamma Chandy]
m
In Loving Memory of our son
4-09-2002
ww
w.
s
tth
om
10-22-1975
as
MEETEN
Loves Forever
Kirti & Jay Chauhan
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
ar
th
o
Since the establishment of our Church, some notable FIRSTS were observed from the
Church Reports and other reliable sources that had occurred during the past four years.
The editorial board has meticulously worked to incorporate all data that had covered
during the period from November 2005 through November 2009 which is now part of
our church history.
m
2005
as
Proponents’ début meeting: Saturday June 04, 2005 at 2:00 PM - Discuss the need
into forming a parish in the western suburbs of Philadelphia metropolis. Convened
at the First Baptist Church of Newtown, 3722 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square,
PA 19073. Dr. George Abraham was formally selected as its General Convener.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
Follow up meeting to form various Committees: Sunday June 26, 2005 at 3:30
PM. Convened at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mathew, 101 Harvest Lane,
Broomall, PA 19008. The meeting unanimously adopted a Resolution: “We, the
Marthomites living in the western suburbs of Philadelphia jointly take appropriate steps
to form a Mar Thoma Parish at a convenient geographical location”. To implement the
resolution and to take appropriate steps in the formation of the church, a Prayer
Cell, a Steering Committee, a Finance Committee and a Church Building Committee
was proposed. Mr. Mathew T. Abraham, Mr. Samkutty Kunjachen and Mrs. Rachel
Joseph were elected to coordinate the Prayer Cell. Mr. John Philip was elected as
the Church Steering Committee Coordinator, Mr. Mathews T. Mathews as Finance
Team Coordinator and Mr. Joseph Mathew as the Church Building Committee
Coordinator.
Meeting arranged with Diocesan Bishop: Wednesday July 27, 2005 at 7:30 PM.
Eighty-seven individual applications were submitted to form a community-based
parish at a convenient geographical location in a western suburb of Philadelphia
metropolis to Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos Episcopa, Diocesan Bishop:
Diocese of North America & Europe at the parsonage of Mar Thoma Church Philadelphia.
ch
.o
rg
Arrangements for Worship Place: Wednesday August 31, 2005. The Trinity
Lutheran Church Council gave the approval to use their Trinity Lutheran Church,
1141 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA 19083 for worship services effective from
November 01, 2005 on a monthly rental fees of $1,516.00.
Meeting at proposed Worship Place: Saturday September 10, 2005 at 4:00 PM. A
general meeting of the prospective members of the new Mar Thoma Church was
held to make necessary arrangements at the Trinity Lutheran Church. A senior
Mar Thoma achen, Rev. George C. Mathew from Virginia who was visiting one of
our members, that day also attended.
th
o
m
Church Mailing Address: Thursday
October 27, 2005. Applied at Havertown
Post Office (as the place of worship was
arranged at Trinity Lutheran Church)
for a Post Box. Owned a P. O. Box #1582
till September 2007.
ac
hu
r
Episcopal Synod approval for the New Parish: September 15 & 16, 2005. The
Diocesan Bishop informed us, through a Kalpana decreed on October 11, 2005 from
our Metropolitan The Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom (20th Mar Thoma)
that the Episcopal Synod of Mar Thoma Church has sanctioned a new Mar Thoma
Church in the name of ‘St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley, PA’
effective the first of November 2005. Our Diocesan Bishop through his Kalpana of
October 25, 2005 informed that Rev. A. C. Kurian, Vicar of Ascension Mar Thoma
church, Philadelphia to be concurrently the Vicar-in-Charge of the new church.
name
as
m
ar
Church Website: The Communication
Team Coordinator, Mr. Shaji V. Mathew
in cooperation with Mr. Varghese
Mathew (Kochumon) designed
meticulously
an
informative
website
under
the
“www.stthomasmarthomachurch.org’’for the proposed new church.
tth
om
Good Bye to ‘mother church’: Sunday October 30, 2005. On behalf of the St. Thomas
Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley, Dr. Samuel K. Chacko bid farewell to our
fellow parishioners at Mar Thoma Church Philadelphia, after the Parish Secretary’s
reading out the Mar Thoma Metropolitan’s Kalpana giving permission to start the
new parish – St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley.
w.
s
Church Registered with IRS for EIN: Sunday October 30, 2005. The Employee
Identification Number (EIN) was applied online with the Internal Revenue Services
on October 30, 2005 in the process to have banking facilities and incorporating the
church as a non-profit religious organization.
ww
Registered Physical Church Address: Sunday October 30, 2005: 513 Susan Drive,
King of Prussia, PA 19406. (C/o. Mr. Mathews T. Mathews, Coordinator – Finance
Team 2005)
Church Banking Accounts: Wednesday November 2, 2005. A checking account
for St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley was opened with Wachovia
Bank at King of Prussia Branch.
Assets for Church: Wednesday November 2, 2005. Two large size (110 cups, each)
stainless steel coffee urns purchased for St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware
Valley costing $519.73
ch
.o
rg
New Parish Commencement: Sunday November 6, 2005 at 3:00 PM: The début
Holy Communion service of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley
was celebrated by Rev. A. C. Kurian (Vicar-in-charge) at the rented facilities of
Trinity Lutheran Church, Havertown.
ac
hu
r
New Parish Inauguration: Sunday November 13, 2005 at 3:30 PM: Rt. Rev. Dr.
Euyakim Mar Coorilos, our Diocesan Bishop
celebrated the Holy Communion in English. Later
in the evening, a public meeting was arranged when
the Diocesan Bishop inaugurated the new church by
lighting the lamp. Our Vicar-in-Charge, Rev. A. C.
Kurian presided over the meeting. Besides many
members of our sister parishes, we had the presence
of Rev. T. P. Zachariah (Vicar, The Mar Thoma
Church Philadelphia), Rev. Susieal C. Varghese
(Vicar, Bethel Mar Thoma Church) and Rev. Isaac P.
Johnson (Youth Chaplain, South East Region).
m
Press Interview: Sunday December 4, 2005 at 1:30 PM: Ms. Kristin E. Holmes,
Staff Writer – ‘The Philadelphia Inquirer’ interviewed our parishioners and wrote
about the church under Faith Life banner titled “Small yet a growing Christian
group” which was published on Sunday December 18, 2005.
ar
th
o
Door-to-Door Caroling: Sunday December 4, 2005 at 6:00 PM: Kicked off from the
residence of Mr. & Mrs. Pramod Thomas,
1305 Colwell Lane, Conshohocken, PA
19428.
m
Santa Claus for the Door-to-Door
Caroling: Sunday December 4, 2005 at
6:00 PM: Mr. Ranjan T. Barsley.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
as
Christmas Day Carol Services: Sunday
December 25, 2005 at 3:00 PM: Vicar Rev.
A. C. Kurian celebrated the Holy
Communion and Christmas Carol
services. He also gave the Christmas message.
Adopted a motto inspired by Joe
Stowell: “Make a difference by daring to be
different!”
2006
Church General Body: Sunday January
1, 2006: Election to the Church Executive
Committee was formally conducted.
(Photographs & Names of the first Executive
Committee Members given in page 89)
Church’s Grandparents: January 2,
2006: #35 - Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Koshy (Baby, Alyssa Daniel was born to Bibin &
Rajini Daniel)
Church’s Child Baptism: February 4, 2006: Baby, Kamran Kaysee Chacko
(Grandson of Dr. & Mrs. Samuel K. Chacko and son of Mr. & Mrs. Jacob S. Chacko)
was baptized by Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias
Mar Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan.
ch
.o
rg
Suffragan Metropolitan’s visit: Sunday
February 5, 2006: Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias
Mar Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan
celebrated Holy Communion and
dedicated the 1 st Church Executive
Committee.
ac
hu
r
Church Holy Communion Services
Cancelled: Sunday February 12, 2006: Due to 18" of snow fall on the previous day,
the scheduled Holy Communion services and Annual General Body got cancelled.
Church Annual General Body: Sunday February 19, 2006: Presentation of Annual
Report & Statement of Accounts for 2005 and Budget for 2006 proposed.
Church Area Prayer Meeting: Saturday March 4, 2006 at 5:30 PM: Moriah Area
Prayer Group arranged its first cottage prayer meeting at the residence of Mr. &
Mrs. Samkutty Kunjachen, 731 Hinchley Run, West Chester, PA 19382.
th
o
m
Youth Chaplain’s Holy Communion
Service: Sunday March 12, 2006: Rev. Isaac P
Johnson, SE Region’s Youth Chaplain
celebrated the English Holy Communion
services.
m
ar
Diocesan Secretary Achen’s Holy
Communion Service: Sunday March 26, 2006:
Rev. Dr. K. A. Abraham, Bishop’s/Diocesan
Secretary celebrated the English Holy
Communion services.
tth
om
as
Vicar’s Pulpit exchange: Sunday April 2, 2006: Rev. Koshy Mathew, Vicar – New
Jersey Mar Thoma Church, Randolph celebrated the English Holy Communion
services, while our Vicar in reciprocation visited the Randolph church as per the
annual pulpit exchange by the Diocese.
Guest Priest for Passion Week Services: April 11 to 16, 2006: Rev. M. P. Yohannan
(Former Mar Thoma Church Clergy Trustee) led the Passion Week services.
ww
w.
s
General Body Meeting: April 16, 2006: Church Bylaws approved and adopted for
incorporating the church as a non-profit religious organization with Department
of State, Justice and Revenue.
Parsonage ‘House-warming’: Wednesday May 10, 2006 at 7:00 PM: In the
presence of church members, Vicar-inCharge, Rev. A. C. Kurian, assisted by
Rev. Susieal C. Varghese (Vicar, Bethel
Mar Thoma Church) dedicated the
Parsonage at 137 Marlborough Road,
Upper Darby, PA 19082 for a full time new
resident vicar of the parish.
Resident Vicar’s arrival: Friday May 12, 2006: Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and family
(Mrs. Sobha, children: Ashish and Joel) reached Philadelphia and occupied the
parsonage.
ch
.o
rg
Welcome & Farewell reception to Vicars: Sunday May 14, 2006 at 5:00 PM: A
reception was accorded to 1st resident Vicar, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and family,
while a farewell was given to Vicar-in-Charge, Rev. A. C. Kurian and family (Mrs.
Aleykutty, and children: Anita and Anila).
Parents’ Day: Sunday May 14, 2006: As proposed by the General Body Parents’
Day was observed by the church clubbing together Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day.
m
ac
hu
r
Accolades (Sunday School) for the Church: May 14,
2006 : Ms. Nisha George (5 th grade) earned a
distinction at the Diocesan Sunday Schools
Examination. She was awarded with a
trophy and certificate at the 24th Family
Conference (July 20 to 23, 2006) held at
Chicago. She is the daughter of Mr. &
Mrs. Joseph George (#23)
th
o
Church Annual Convention: May 19 to 21, 2006 at 6:30 PM: Venue: The Trinity
Lutheran Church, Havertown. Main Speaker: Evangelist George Philip (associated
with Viswa Vani, New Delhi.)
tth
om
as
m
ar
Church’s First Communicants: June 25, 2006 at 3:30 PM: During the Episcopal
visit of Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev. Euyakim
Mar Coorilos, five youths (Jasmine Abraham,
Jamiee Elza Mathew, Reshma Samkutty,
Venny Lalu and Andrea Verghese) received
Holy Communion.
Non-Indian to accept Mar Thoma
Church’s Faith & Practices: Mr. Daniel
Fitzgerald Creskoff, took church membership
#88, after complying to the Faith & Practices
of the Mar Thoma Church.
Church Members’ Marriage: July 1, 2006: Mr. Daniel Fitzgerald Creskoff (#88)
married Dr. Becky A. Thomas (d/o Mr. & Mrs. Oommen C. Thomas - #75).
ww
w.
s
Junior/Senior Conference for Sunday School: July 6 to 8, 2006 at St. John’s
University, New York. Eight children
(Jasmine Abraham, Marilyn Abraham,
Melvin Abraham, Ranjan T. Barsley,
Janson Jacob, John Mammen, Andrea
Verghese and Danielle Verghese)
attended, chaperoned by Dr. Cherian
Verghese and Mrs. Annie Verghese.
Church Annual VBS: July 14 to 16, 2006
at 9:00 AM: 1st day at Ridley Creek Park.
Next two days at the Trinity Lutheran
Church, Havertown.
ch
.o
rg
Church Ordinary Worship Services
(Malayalam): July 23, 2006 at 3:00 PM: As
Vicar Rev. Shaji M. Thomas was attending
the 24th Family Conference at Chicago, Mr.
N. E. Thomas and Mr. Mathew T.
Abraham led the Ordinary Worship
services in Malayalam.
ac
hu
r
Church member’s daughter given into
marriage: July 29, 2006: Ms. Sarene
Mathew (d/o Mr. & Mrs. Philip Mathew - #52) married Mr. Vinu Varghese, a
member of the Indian Orthodox Church,
Philadelphia.
m
Two Sisters’ Baptism together: August
5, 2006 at 11:00 AM: Lidhia Mariam (3 yrs) and
Leanna Elizabeth (2 yrs) daughters of Mr. &
Mrs. George Kovoor (#36) were baptized
together by Vicar, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas at the
Trinity Lutheran Church.
th
o
Church Annual Picnic: August 26, 2006
at 9:00 AM: Marsh Creek State Park, Downingtown, PA.
ar
Church Annual Harvest Festival: Sunday September 17, 2006 at 12:30 PM: Venue:
The Trinity Lutheran Church, Havertown.
Collected an amount of $12,927.00 from
the auction sales.
tth
om
as
m
Automobile for Church/Vicar: Monday
September 18, 2006. A sedan automobile
– Nissan Altima 2.5S model purchased for
the Vicar’s use from Conicelli Nissan,
Conshohocken, PA for an amount of
$16,700.00.
w.
s
Church Annual Parish Day: November
19, 2006 at 6:30 PM: The chief guests were:
Diocesan Secretary Rev. Joseph Oommen,
US Congressman Admiral Joe Sestak and
the Milbourne/Upper Darby Mayor Mr.
William Donavan.
The church reflected the times of the past
with the vision of the future.
ww
2007
Twins Born to Parishioner: January 09, 2007: Twins, David Philip Mathews and
Shana Miriam Mathews were born to the proud parents, Mini & James P. Mathews
(#M-90).
Last Holy Communion services at Trinity Lutheran Church, Havertown: April
29, 2007 at 3:00 PM.
ch
.o
rg
Church’s own property deal: Monday April
30, 2007 at 2:00 PM: A property about 3.75
Acres, with a new building built in the year
2002 and an old block which was built in the
1960s – with a total usable area of around
14,000 sq. ft. on 130 Grubb Road, Malvern,
PA 19355 in Willistown Township of Chester
County owned by VFW was on negotiating
terms and the church settled it for $1.7
million.
ac
hu
r
Thanksgiving services at New Church
Property: Monday April 30, 2007 at 6:00 PM:
Rev. Susieal C. Verghese (Vicar, Bethel Mar
Thoma Church, Philadelphia) and Rev. Mathew
Skariah (Youth Chaplain) led a special prayer
session at the property on the evening of April
30, after signing in for the Title Deed and
occupying the premises.
ar
th
o
m
Church’s Adult Baptism: Saturday
May 5, 2007: Ms.
Deepti Bhandari after voluntarily accepting Christianity
and learning the Faith & Practices of the Mar Thoma
Church was baptized by Vicar Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and
enrolled her to the membership of Mr. K. Daniel Mathew
(#21), whose son Mr. Soby Mathew married Deepti on
July 9, 2007 at Kozhencherry, Kerala.
tth
om
as
m
Holy Communion services at New Church Property:
Sunday May 6, 2007 at
4:00 PM: The début Holy Communion service at
this new property of St. Thomas Mar Thoma
Church of Delaware Valley was celebrated by Rev.
Thomas A. John, Vicar of Greater Washington Mar
Thoma Church, assisted by our Vicar Rev. Shaji
M. Thomas.
w.
s
Church commences morning Holy
Communion services: Sunday May 20, 2007: As
desired by most parishioners the Sunday morning
worship services started at 10:30 AM. Sunday School
activities from 9:00 till 10:20 AM; Bible Study session from 9:15 till 10:15 AM.
ww
Church Praise & Worship Services (English): July 8, 2007 at 9:30 PM: As Vicar
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas was attending the 25th Family Conference at Toronto/Canada,
Mr. Jobin Philip led the Youth Members for the Praise & Worship services in English.
Church Annual Retreat: August 24 to 26, 2007 at 6:30 PM: Venue: St. Thomas Mar
Thoma Church of Delaware Valley, Malvern. It was led by a renowned crusader,
Dr. M. G. Wesley from Florida. The theme “Dare to be Different.”
Church’s daughter-in-law (within USA): September 8, 2007: Mr. John Varghese
(#82 nephew of Mr. & Mrs. Soman Varghese and s/o Mrs. & Rev. M. Varghese)
Construction Permit for new Church
Property: September 26, 2007: The
Permit for commencing the construction
of the Altar and Parsonage was made
available on by the Willistown Township.
ch
.o
rg
married Ms. Sherine Mani, which was
solemnized by Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias
Mar Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan
at Downingtown, PA assisted by our
Vicar Rev. Shaji M. Thomas and Rev.
Mathew Skariah.
ac
hu
r
State Senator’s visit: Sunday November 4, 2007 at 1:30 PM: During Church’s 2nd
Annual Parish Day, Honorable Andrew E. Dinniman, PA State Senator of District
19 and Rev. Abraham Cherian, Vicar of St. Stephen’s Mar Thoma Church, Fords,
NJ attended.
m
State House Representative’s visit: Saturday December 22, 2007 at 5:30 PM: During
Church’s 3rd Annual Christmas Day celebrations, Honorable Dr. Duane D. Milne
(PA House Representative for District 167) and Rev. M. P. Philips, Vicar of C.S.I
Christ Church, Philadelphia attended.
th
o
2008
m
ar
Church Consecration services: Saturday
May 3, 2008 at 5:00 PM: Our Diocesan
Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar
Coorilos Episcopa led the dedication
service with several religious and social
dignitaries.
tth
om
as
Marriage solemnized at the new church:
May 17, 2008: The wedding of Mr. Tom
Mannoor, s/o Mr. & Mrs. Mannoor Thomas
(#74) and Ms. Liza Marie Collins was
solemnized at the newly designed church,
Malvern.
ww
w.
s
Mar Thoma Church Supreme Head’s
visit: Saturday May 24, 2008 at 2:30 PM: The
Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan
(Mar Thoma XXI) made a surprise stop-over at
the newly consecrated church property. He was
received by Church Secretary, Mr. Jose George
& Mr. Saji Jacob, Building Projects
Convener.
New Parsonage Dedication: Sunday
August 31, 2008 at 1:30 PM: The newly
constructed parsonage within the church
property was dedicated on by our Vicar
Rev. Shaji M. Thomas. Several invitees
including Rev. K. A. Thomas, Rev. Jacob
K. Mathew (Vicar - Carmel Mar Thoma
Church, Boston), Rev. George M. Kuruvilla (Vicar - Bethel Mar Thoma Church,
Philadelphia) attended the ‘house-warming’ ceremony.
ch
.o
rg
Diocesan Office Bearer – Sunday Schools: # 64 Mr. John Philip is the Treasurer
(2008-2011) for the Diocesan Sunday Schools.
Church Office Bearer holding same position consecutively: Mr. Shaji V. Mathew
(# 53) held the position of Accountant (Trustee – Accounts) consecutively in 2007
and 2008.
2009
ac
hu
r
Church recognized to play hosts: March 14, 2009: Our
church hosted the SE Regional Sevika Sanghom
Conference; April 11, 2009: SE Regional Youth
Fellowship Spring Conference, and April 18, 2009: The
Diocesan Assembly.
th
o
m
Accolades (Community) for the Church: April 29,
2009:
Master
Michael
Pathisseril (s/o Mr. & Mrs.
Varghese M. Pathisseril (#61)
earned a distinction in Essay
Writing
(4-6
grades)
conducted by the PA Bar
Association for LAW DAY
2009 Essay Contest.
as
m
ar
Church Representation-VBS among native
Americans at Alabama: June 12-14, 2009: Mr. Sam T.
Mathew (#57) participated to lead the Diocese
sponsored annual VBS program at Mount Vernon,
Alabama.
ww
w.
s
tth
om
A Bishop and 3 priests for Holy Communion
Services: Sunday August 2, 2009 at 4:00 PM: Rt. Rev.
Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa (Diocesan Bishop:
Adoor & Malaysia-Singapore-Australia) celebrated
Holy Communion assisted by three achens – Senior
priest Rev. M. John, Rev. Philip George (Vicar – Mar
Thoma Church Philadelphia and our Vicar Rev.
Abraham Mathew.
3rd Church Annual Retreat: August 7 to 9, 2009:
Outside church venue: Malvern Retreat House,
Malvern. Theme: “From the Cross, through Church,
to the World.” Leaders: Rev. Abraham Mathew, Rev.
Roy A. Thomas and Mr. Philip Mathew.
Church Cultural programs & Talent show: Saturday September 26,
2009: Our church organized it after 3 years of planning.
Church Lady Office Bearer: Mrs. Rachel Joseph (#45) held the position
of Treasurer (Trustee – Assets) in 2009. Church Consecration Souvenir 205
ch
.o
rg
St. Thomas Delaware Valley “Mangonutz”
2007- Ascension Allstars Tournament- Semi Finalists
2008- Ascension Allstars Tournament Semi Finalists, St Thomas, NY, Marthoma Invitational
Tournament Champions
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
2009- Ascension Allstars Tournament Quarter Finalist, St Thomas, NY, Marthoma Invitational
Tournament Champions, STYL (St Thomas Orthodox Long Island) tournament semi-finalists.
Achievements through our PLAYERS.......
09)
10)
11)
12)
13)
14)
15)
16)
m
ar
Feji Cherian (Coach) (2008,2009)
Toby Jose (Captain) (2007,2008,2009)
Roby Jose (2007,2008,2009)
Sumin Chacko (2008,2009)
Mithun Chacko (2008,2009)
Abyin Chacko (2008,2009)
Kevin Koshy (2007,2008,2009)
Justin Abraham (2008,2009)
as
01)
02)
03)
04)
05)
06)
07)
08)
Leo George (2008,2009)
Mathews Chacko (2007,2008,2009)
Jijo Kunjumon (2008,2009)
Lijo GeeVarghese (2007,2008,2009)
Ranjan T. Barsley (2007)
Jobin Philip (2007)
Jeril Philip (2007)
Varghese Pathisseril (2007,2008,2009)
tth
om
Beginning of 2009 as a whole team we decided to change the team name from
RevelationZ to MangoNutZ, giving a Kerala touch to name and designing a new
team jersey with that.
ww
w.
s
Team President : Rev. Shaji M. Thomas
Space sponsored by:
Team Manager
: Varghese M. Pathisseril
Mr. Sam T. Mathew (#57)
won the Royal cup Table
Tennis
Tournament
organized by CELTIC ARTS
CLUB, Philadelphia on
February 2, 2008. The
championship Trophy was
presented by Rev. M. P.
Philips, Vicar of C.S.I
Church, Philadelphia.
Desi Village INDIAN CUISINE
145 SOUTH GULPH ROAD, KING OF PRUSSIA, PA-19406
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
Door-to-Door Caroling 2006
Future Church Office Bearers : May-14-2006
as
m
ar
Young Musicians - Christmas Services : Dec-25-2005
th
o
m
Door-to-Door Caroling 2005
Raffle Prize Winner Shaji Jacob Koshy : July-15-2007
w.
s
tth
om
Parents of First Communicants : June-25-2006
Packers & Movers Team in action : May-05-2007
VBS participants : July 2008
VBS participants : July 2009
ww
Packers & Movers Team : May-05-2007
We fondly remember and praise God for the
service and ministry of Rev. C. P. Wilson [Vicar
- Mar Thoma Church Philadelphia], who
participated at the formal inauguration of our
Members of Youth Fellowship 2008
Church Executive Committee 2008
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
Church Executive Committee 2009
altar/sanctuary construction activities on Saturday January
19, 2008. Wilson Achen left for his heavenly abode on
January 25, 2008 but will continue to live in the hearts of
our parishioners and others whose life he has touched.
Members of Yuvajana Sakhyam 2008
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
m
th
o
ar
m
as
tth
om
w.
s
ww
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
Convener’s Closing Communiqué
ch
.o
rg
“If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles”
m
Souvenir Brochure: On
December 22nd 2007, a
three-fold brochure
containing our appeal,
an
order
form,
specifications
and
advertisement tariffs
was formally released
m
ar
th
o
consecration of the church was taken, we were indeed
throwing our bread on the waters. The new property
for the church at Malvern, which was still a dream, had
to be acquired before April 30th 2007, the closing date
for the execution of the title deed. The General Body
that met on April 15th 2007 reposed full faith in me when
they had unanimously proposed my name for Convener
- Souvenir and Public Relations, albeit my position as
Secretary of the Church. I was dared to go the second
mile, and accepted it banking on His abundant
provisions.
ac
hu
r
- St. Matthew 5:41 NIV
Is this verse a question to leap forward or to have a great
Relations Committee was convened on October 14th 2007
stride? The Gospels are proven to be Christian doctrines.
to discuss on the various marketing strategies with
There’s nothing to question about and what it relates to
regard to the publication of the Souvenir. It was not only
me was a challenge to encounter the odds. The mileage
intended to commemorate the dedication of the Church
was beyond what we could comprehend in reality!!
and Parsonage, but was also designed as a major
fundraising project in a bid to partially repay the
I seek your permission to reminisce a bit. When the
mortgaged loan of $1.5 million.
proposal to publish a souvenir to commemorate the
tth
om
as
While learning more on that Gospel *quote, one could
find the challenge to go a second mile is the key that
unlocks the secret of joy in difficult circumstances. It is to
trust in the Lord and His provisions and do His will under
all trials and tribulations. When we do that God is Faithful
and Just, and He will guide us through the most
contentious and difficult paths, thereby transforming our
self-perception from that of a victim to a victor.
by Rev. M. P. Philips, Vicar of C.S.I Christ Church,
Philadelphia during the Christmas Carol services. We
anticipated every parishioner’s participation in this great
ww
w.
s
Now let me present a gist of the Souvenir & Public
Relations Committee’s activities. The chain prayers bore
fruit when we were able to acquire this property for the
church with an existing five year old VFW Hall in the
quaint sylvan suburb of Malvern, a city on the rural
fringe of Greater Philadelphia. The Permit to commence
construction of the Altar and Parsonage was made
available on September 26th 2007 by the Willistown
Township - all within 18 months time of the parish’s
existence. The first meeting of the Souvenir & Public
endeavor by collection of advertisements, greetings,
compliments and so on from their relatives, friends,
business houses and entrepreneurs. The global
*During Biblical times, the Romans had conquered much of the known world and ruled with an iron hand. A
Roman soldier could force a subject of one of the conquered lands to carry his backpack, or ‘load’ for him one
mile, but only one mile. When Jesus spoke to His followers in the Sermon on the Mount, He said to them to go in
for that extra mile, which represents a much higher law - the law of love, kindness, and generosity.
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
The churches in the South-East region of our Diocese,
(where our church is also included, from New Jersey to
Washington D.C) two churches extended their
cooperation – Bethel Mar Thoma Church, Philadelphia
and Ascension Mar Thoma Church, Philadelphia – our
‘sibling’ parishes. We extend our ‘big thanks’ to our sister
parishes, and we acknowledge their reciprocal
commitment.
With so many demands on our time, the urgent tasks
demand our attention while the important things can
be postponed. But a time will come when even the
important can no longer be done. Bottom line: Doing
what’s right today means no regrets tomorrow. In an
effort to face the challenges of life, we often turn to
Solomon’s words: “To everything there’s….…every
purpose under heaven.” But we readily admit that we
would rather laugh than weep, dance than mourn, and
gain than lose. Let me summarize, whatever the season
of life, attitude makes all the difference. You don’t react
disdainfully toward others simply because you don’t
agree to their views. If you do not hope, you will not
find what is beyond your hopes.
th
o
In God’s service, our greatest ability is our availability.
It’s a fact that teamwork divides the effort and multiplies
the effect. I avail through the columns of this souvenir
to acknowledge the services rendered by all members
of the Souvenir & Public Relations Committee, especially
our first Resident Vicar, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas who had
relentlessly approached many of his associates for the
advertisement campaigning. The accomplishments of
this souvenir, especially for its final touches would not
have been made possible sans the timely guidance and
leadership of our new Resident Vicar Rev. Abraham
Mathew (Kochukoikal).
in our Souvenir’s advertisement campaign. The Mar
Thoma Syrian Church in Singapore graciously
cooperated with us. We are grateful to the parishioners
of the first-ever church to be established outside India
in the early 1930s for responding to our plea.
m
economic recession, which affected the United States
no less hard, threw a wrench in our works, almost.
But the timely guidance from the Almighty,
strengthened us to weather the storm and go ahead
with the printing of this magazine-sized church
consecration commemorative souvenir, which we
decided to release the first copy on the occasion of the
church dedication on May 3rd 2008 by the Diocesan
Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos Episcopa.
m
ar
On behalf of the Souvenir & Public Relations Committee,
I would wish to express our gratitude to many of our
well wishers, including Mr. N. M. Mathew (Vancouver)
for the updated version of the History of the Mar Thoma
Church, Dr. George Zachariah (Washington D.C.) and
Mr. V. P. Abraham (Bethlehem, PA), for their exclusive
articles and memoirs for this Souvenir.
tth
om
as
Our special kudos to the dailies of Philadelphia Inquirer,
Malayalam Patharam (NY), Malayalam Vaartha (Philadelphia),
Malayalee Sangamam (NY & Chicago), The Messenger – a
diocesan quarterly publication, and Mr. Joychen
Puthukulam, a freelance journalist (Chicago) for
publishing various reports and interviews about our
church and its dedication.
ww
w.
s
We have no words to express to those magnanimous
contributors who came forward to donate a space in this
souvenir by giving their personal advertisements and
complimentary greetings. We appreciate their patience,
when I had to speak to many of the charity-minded
donors that we couldn’t get the final print ready on time.
Commendable recognition should be bestowed on Mr.
Mathew Baby, who has taken all marketing strategies
to mobilize the topper’s list in the advertisement
campaign.
I would like to report as a last note that I had approached
various Mar Thoma Churches around the world,
(excluding those in India) with an appeal to participate
Do not ask the Lord to guide your footsteps, if you are
not willing to move your feet’s pace.
Finally, we express our wholehearted THANKS to the
Presidents of both the United States of America, and
India, our Metropolitans, our Bishops, PA State
Governor, all Diplomats, our advertisers, well wishers,
friends and families and all our members who have
participated and supported in this first-ever official
publication of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of
Delaware Valley.
Let us praise our “ALMIGHTY GOD FOR HIS
PROVIDENCE; WITHOUT HIS BLESSINGS OUR
MISSION WOULD HAVE BEEN UN-ACCOMPLISHED.”
May the Heavenly Father continue to bless us all!!
For and on behalf of the Souvenir & Public Relations
Committee,
Mathews T. Mathews
(Convener)
Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar
Coorilos releasing the commemorative
souvenir in connection with the dedication
of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of
Delaware Valley on May 03, 2008. The first
copy was received by Rev. Binu John, Vicar
- New Jersey Mar Thoma Church,
Randolph.
ch
.o
rg
Official Releasing of Souvenir : May 03, 2008
as
m
ar
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
Looking on are from left to right: Rev. Fr.
K. K. John, Chairman - Ecumenical
Churches of Philadelphia, Mr. Cherian
Thomas, Hon. Consul - Indian Consulate
General, New York, Mr. Mathews T.
Mathews, Convener - Souvenir & Public
Relations Committee, Rev. Shaji M. Thomas, Vicar - St. Thomas MTC of Delaware Valley and Mr. Norman
McQueen, Chairman - Board of Supervisors, Willistown Township, PA.
SOUVENIR & PUBLIC
RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Organizations’ Representatives
Mr. Joseph Mathew
Edavaka Mission
Mr. Philip Mathew
Sunday School
Mrs. Annie Verghese
Rev. Abraham Mathew
Sevika Sanghom
Mrs. Elizabeth John
Yuvajana Sakhyam
Mr. Leny Mathew (Editor)
Youth Fellowship
Ms. Sherin George
Dr. George Abraham
Choir
Mr. Jose George
Member
Mr. Paduthottu V. Philip
Carmel Prayer Group
Mr. Mathew Baby
Member
Mr. Pramod Thomas
Horeb Prayer Group
Mr. Thomas Philips
Member
Mrs. Betty Chandy
Member
Mr. Joseph George
Moriah Prayer Group
Sinai Prayer Group
Mr. T. M. Chandy
Mr. Philip Thomas
tth
om
Church Executive
President / Vicar
Convener
Member
ww
w.
s
Member
“But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep.”
- Robert Frost
m
th
o
ar
m
as
om
tth
ww
.s
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
m
th
o
ar
m
as
om
tth
ww
.s
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r
ch
.o
rg
th
o
m
ac
hu
r
Our Bishops flocked together at St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, S.C.S., Thiruvalla to pray and celebrate the 90th
birthday (Navathy) of our Valiya Metropolitan, the Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom on April 27, 2008
ar
Sitting Metropolitans: (Left of Right): The Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, The Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya
Metropolitan, and Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus Suffragan Metropolitan.
Standing Episcopas: (Left to Right): Rt. Rev. Dr. Euyakim Mar Coorilos, Rt.Rev. Geevarghese Mar Athanasius, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius,
Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas, Rt. Rev. Thomas Mar Timotheos, Rt. Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos, and Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos.
ww
.s
tth
om
as
m
THE MARTHOMITES at MALVERN, PA
Family members of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley assembled for a group photograph with new Diocesan Bishop,
Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius on April 19, 2009.
m
th
o
ar
m
as
om
tth
ww
.s
ch
.o
rg
ac
hu
r

Message - St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church of Delaware Valley

Transcription

Similar documents

March 20 - St. Paul`s

February 7 - St. Paul`s

BC-625 Surplus 2-meter Transmitter

cleaning up! - Thurston High School

What`s Up Willowville? - West Clermont Local Schools

Development of a European MAR catalogue, Scheibler

The Devil`s Horn - Pulaski County School District

Rocker Bank Air Eliminator Head for the Air Eliminator Model T2A

Faithful: 200.000 in Iran (10-15000), Iraq (50-70 000) - BAR

May 15 - St. Paul`s