STMTC Chicago

The Diocesan Episcopa Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius visited the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Chicago from Jan 28th to 29th 2012. During his visit he met with the youths, young adults and first communicants and their families on Jan 28th (Saturday) evening.

These sessions were more interactive in nature and gave opportunity to respond to their concerns and questions about the Church and its mission. Earlier in the day, Thirumeni celebrated a baptism and house warming services for the parish members.

On Sunday, Jan 29th Thirumeni celebrated the Holy Communion service. A special dedication service for 8 First Communicants was also held at that time. Mar Theodosius gave message on the topic of “Gospel of Repentance” based on Mark 1:15. Thirumeni said “Call to Repentance is a Call to Absolute Surrender to the purpose of God and to live in that Awareness”. Thirumeni also expressed the need for Repentance of the Individual, Repentance of the family and Repentance of the Community. Thirumeni also shared about the great commission from Mark 24:47. “The Commission is to give the message of repentance to the world”. After the message, thirumeni conducted the Dedication service for first communicants.

Rev. Alex Peter, Youth Chaplain of the Midwest region also attended the service. After the Holy Communion service, during the announcement, Mr. Varghese P. Varghese, Diocesan Council member addressed the congregation and invited the parish for the 30th National Family Conference at Virginia in July 2012.

In a public meeting held immediately after the Holy Communion, Thirumeni shared his vision for the youths and young adults to become active members within our church and made responsible in the overall administration of the church. He asked the elders to provide the next generation more opportunities and help them to gain experience to administer the church.

Thirumeni expressed his appreciation to the youths who were present at the service. Mr. Jacob Chacko, our Vice-President welcomed Thirumeni and Mr. Varghese P Varghese. Mr. Johnson Mathew, our Diocesan Assembly member gave the vote of thanks. Mr. Varghese P Varghese led the closing prayer followed by the benediction by Thirumeni. The public service ended with Kaimuthu.

After a photo session with the first communicants and their families, thirumeni met with the executive committee to discuss parish concerns. Thirumeni listened to the concerns and responded to these concerns by expressing his perspective and administrative challenges of the Diocese. Afterwards Thirumeni joined for a fellowship lunch with the parishioners arranged by the first communicant families.
Mr. Mathew Varghese
Parish Secretary