Carmel Mar Thoma Church, Boston

The Diocesan Episcopa visited the Carmel Mar Thoma Church, Boston from April 13-15, 2012. Upon arrival Thirumeni guided by the vicar made some visits to the members.

On Saturday, Thirumeni had a meeting with the Bishop of the Anglican Church, Rt. Rev. Brian Marsh and Fr. Job Serebrov at the residence of Dr. George Abraham. Following the meeting, Thirumeni conducted a baptism at the Carmel Mar Thoma Church. After the baptism, there was a thanksgiving prayer held at one of the homes. The day ended with a fellowship meeting and dinner. There were opportunities for the members of the parish to meet the Bishop on all the above occasions.

On Sunday, Thirumeni celebrated the Holy Qurbana in English. The parish choir assisted with the selected songs and in the chanting of the liturgy. They also gave a special number on the day. Thirumeni delivered the sermon based on the gospel of John 20: 19-29 expressing how the risen Christ brought out the disciples from the room where they found safety and security. He explained how the disciples were empowered with new life to come out of the spirit of fundamentalism, materialism and the dubious ways of the then religious community. He exhorted the members to be empowered by the power of the risen Lord to encounter the challenges of the day and become effective missionaries.

At the end of the service, Thirumeni expressed his heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the diocese to Rev. K.C. Varughese and his family for his ministry in USA for the last three years. There was a fellowship lunch at the Church. The Sevika Sanghom meeting followed. In the evening, Thirumeni concluded his time in Boston with a couple house visits and a fellowship dinner.
Rev. K.C. Varughese
Vicar