Reception of the new Diocesan Episcopa, 08 May 2016

Escorted by gracious bishops from sister churches, the new bishop of the Mumbai Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa was welcomed to his new vineyard, as children rained floral tributes to the music of a glorious choir who filled the air with songs of welcome and heavenly blessings upon the new shepherd.

At 4.15 pm, the dignitaries entered St. Paul’s MTC, Vashi, in a procession led by the clergy of the Diocese. The children of Vikhroli MTC Sunday School, enthralled the dignitaries and the gathering with a gracious Welcome Dance. Rev. A. T. Zechariah, vicar of the St.Thomas MTC, Santacruz, led the opening prayer. After the warm and delightful Welcome Speech of the Diocesan and Bishop’s Secretary, Rev. Saji Joseph, the lamp was lit, which acknowledged the presence of God as the guiding light, which dispels all darkness in all the  endeavours of the Church.

 

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios OIC of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Exarchate of Pune, was the first to felicitate Mar Theodosius, whom he referred to as “brother.” His Excellency wished that Mar Theodosius will be a shepherd who reeks of his flock.

His Eminence Most Rev. Thomas Mor Alexandrios Metropolitan of Mumbai Diocese of the Jacobite Syrian Church, shared that he was glad that a senior bishop was around that His Eminence may seek advice and wisdom. The Metropolitan also expressed his eagerness to work together with Mar Theodosius in all fronts for the glory of God.

The honourable Mayor of Navi Mumbai, was another person who graced the dais of esteemed dignitaries. As he expressed his joy of sharing the occasion, the Mayor promised to be of support to the community, since they were engaged in the upliftment of the downtrodden of the society. Notably, the Mayor shared his conviction that if a person who received the blessings of God through such mission felt at some point that he must accept Christ, it must not be viewed as forced conversion, but the result of a transformed life.

Mr. T. C. Benjamin IAS, a eminent son of the Diocese felicitated the new bishop in poetic words. He recalled coming out of his first meeting with Thirumeni and feeling very hopeful about the future of this Diocese under him.

While Rev. Gigy Thomas spoke on behalf of the Diocesan Clergy, Mr. Sabu Daniel ( NMMT Chairman of the Transport Commission) represented the Diocesan Council in felicitating Mar Theodosius.

Children from Navjeevan delighted the gathering with a dance. This was followed by presentation of the mementos to the dignitaries.

The new bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa shared his message to the gathering of the faithful. Thirumeni expressed that he was conscious of the enormous task before him. He stated the importance of reaching out to the various language groups in the Diocese in their vernacular languages especially in relationships, worship, liturgy, etc. Emphasizing participation of youth in church activities, Thirumeni challenged the faithful to allow youngsters to come forward and be a part of the administration. He encouraged the faithful to work together for the Lord.

The Diocesan Treasurer Mr. P. K. Achenkunju delivered the vote of thanks and the meeting came to a close with a closing prayer by Rev. Thomas K. Jacob and benediction by Mar Theodosius.

Following the National Anthem, tea and snacks were served and the Welcome Programme concluded in a blessed manner, marking a new beginning for the Mumbai Diocese, under the watchful eyes of new Shepherd.