South Florida MTC

Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius visited South Florida Mar Thoma Church on December 24 and 25, 2011.

Thirumeni was the chief guest of the Christmas Carol Service which was held on the Christmas Eve. The carol service started with a procession of the choir had melodious carols by the parish choir and variety entertainments programs by the Sunday School students and Youth Fellowship. Thirumeni gave a very challenging Christmas message. Through the birth of Jesus Christ, God presented the most precious gift to the entire world to redeem the oppressed, marginalized and the downtrodden. He challenged the Christian community to develop an attitude of love and sharing and be advocates of the weak in the community. The participants of the House-To- House Caroling presented one song during this program. The Carol Service was followed by fellowship dinner at the Community Hall.

The Holy Communion Service on Christmas day started at 8 a.m. This service was very significant due to the fact that 16 youths from the parish received Holy Communion first time in their life. After prayers and oath, Thirumeni presented them with the most valuable gift, the Bible, to each participants and distributed certificates. A lighted candle was given to all first communicants to remind them the words of Jesus that they are called to be the light of the world. The parish community participated in the blessed Holy Qurbana Service.
Following the Worship service, the Parish Day was celebrated. Rev. Jose P. Abraham, vicar welcomed respected Thirumeni and the participants to the meeting. A brief report consisting of the parish history and the current activities was presented by Mr. Kuruvilla Eapen, Secretary. Thirumeni delivered the key note address. Mr. Georgy Varughese, Diocesan Council member made a brief presentation regarding the upcoming Mar Thoma Family Conference 2012 which will be held in Virginia July 5-8. A registration campaign was held. There was a fellowship brunch after the meeting.

Thirumeni along with Vicar, Council Member and parish officials visited a few families. In the evening, Thirumeni officiated the baptism service of a child in the parish.
Thirumeni took time to interact with parishioners and discuss various parish matters. This paved way for the smooth administration of the Parish. The parish was appreciated for getting the best parish award in 2010 and also updating the remittance to the Sabha and Diocese in 2011.

Thirumeni’s visit to South Florida Mar Thoma Church this year was a real blessing to all members.
Georgy Varughese
Diocesan Council Member