FOR HIS GLORY: 90 YEARS OF FAITH AND LOOKING AHEAD IN HOPE

Dearly beloved in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

With hearts full of gratitude and praise to God, we rejoice in the successful completion of the 90th year celebrations of our beloved parish. This milestone has not merely been a commemoration of years gone by, but a living testimony to God’s abiding faithfulness, sustaining grace, and guiding hand upon our church through generations.

A Journey Marked by Faithfulness

Over these ninety years, the Lord has led us through seasons of growth, challenge, renewal, and mission. The recently concluded Navathi celebrations and initiatives have been a powerful reminder that the Church is not merely a structure or an institution, but a vibrant community of believers called to witness to Christ in the world.

We thank God for the unity, dedication, and tireless efforts of all who contributed to the success of these celebrations. We acknowledge the faithful service and leadership of our Assistant Vicars, Office Bearers, Executive Committee and the Navathi Committee, whose careful planning, vision, and commitment ensured that every aspect of the celebrations reflected excellence and devotion.

One of the most encouraging aspects of this season has been the wholehearted participation of parishioners across all prayer groups of the parish. From the youngest to the eldest, from every fellowship and family unit, the spirit of unity and shared purpose has been clearly evident. This active involvement reflects the true nature of the Church as the Body of Christ.

We lovingly bid farewell to Rev. Sanju Varghese and family as they step into their new ministry in Immanuel Mar Thoma Church, Cheriyanad. We are deeply grateful for their faithful service among us and pray that the Lord will guide, strengthen, and bless them abundantly in the days ahead.

A Call to Renewed Mission

As we step beyond the 90th year, the Lord calls us to deepen our commitment to His mission. The future of our parish must be shaped not only by worship and fellowship, but by compassionate action and faithful witness. The Word of God reminds us clearly: “To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

In the coming years, may our Church intentionally turn its attention toward those who are often overlooked: the marginalised, the widows, the sick, the differently-abled, and those who are financially vulnerable. True faith expresses itself in love, and true worship is reflected in acts of mercy and justice. Let us become a community that not only proclaims Christ but embodies His compassion. Let us be a Church where the broken find healing, the lonely find belonging, and the needy find support.

May the Lord bless our parish, renew our vision, and use us for His glory in the years to come.

In Christ’s Love,

Rev. Shaimon Elias Vicar, Madras Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Chetpet

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” - Matthew 5:16