Vicar's Message
Vicars Message for the month of October 2020
Warm greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
This is the month of October. We have now entered the fall season, and also the final quarter of the year. We are going through the crisis of the Covid 19 pandemic. Let us pray for the health workers, volunteers and law enforcers who work day and night these days. We should also have to do our responsibilities to stop the spread of the disease. Even though the ‘new normal’ ways for the society are being slowly accepted by each and every one of us, The truth is that our kids are struggling with being in the house and with the daily schedule that they had to do within the four walls. This will be challenging for the days to come.
This month we celebrate Voluntary Evangelistic Association Sunday, Youth Sunday and Family Sunday. Family is the basis of God's creation. A gift from God. In the context of separations and conflicts, we should take extra step to bind the family together. Let us keep in our minds that “The family which prays together stays together”. Remember that family is the place of faith formation. It molds the coming generation. Let us pray for the healthy families.
I thank all our Parish members for coping up with the new approach to worship. Thank you very much for your prayers, co operation, and support. I also like to remind you that if there are any personal prayer requests, please do not hesitate to contact me and we will definitely pray for you.
Let us continue to pray for the safety and wellbeing of all people and communities and that things can be much better soon. May the blessings of the Triune God be with us always.
Stay Bless… Stay Safe…
Prayers
Liju Achen
This is the month of October. We have now entered the fall season, and also the final quarter of the year. We are going through the crisis of the Covid 19 pandemic. Let us pray for the health workers, volunteers and law enforcers who work day and night these days. We should also have to do our responsibilities to stop the spread of the disease. Even though the ‘new normal’ ways for the society are being slowly accepted by each and every one of us, The truth is that our kids are struggling with being in the house and with the daily schedule that they had to do within the four walls. This will be challenging for the days to come.
This month we celebrate Voluntary Evangelistic Association Sunday, Youth Sunday and Family Sunday. Family is the basis of God's creation. A gift from God. In the context of separations and conflicts, we should take extra step to bind the family together. Let us keep in our minds that “The family which prays together stays together”. Remember that family is the place of faith formation. It molds the coming generation. Let us pray for the healthy families.
I thank all our Parish members for coping up with the new approach to worship. Thank you very much for your prayers, co operation, and support. I also like to remind you that if there are any personal prayer requests, please do not hesitate to contact me and we will definitely pray for you.
Let us continue to pray for the safety and wellbeing of all people and communities and that things can be much better soon. May the blessings of the Triune God be with us always.
Stay Bless… Stay Safe…
Prayers
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the Month of September 2020
Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
The Month of September has arrived. Almost all our kids are engaged in learning with the new mode. Even though there are many limitations in this new model of study, we are trying to cop up with it. May the Almighty provide His abundant grace to move forward.
In United States, the first Monday of September is observed as Labor Day. It is the time of honoring working people, their contributions, achievements and sacrifices in pursuit of national prosperity and well-being. Let us uphold them and their contributions in our prayers. Let us also remember those who are facing financial difficulties due to unemployment or being furloughed, especially during this time. Let us also pray for those who are working hard as essential and front line workers during this Covid 19 time.
Amidst this pandemic, God is so gracious to us and keeps us safe in his arms. As a faith community, we need to continue to uphold each other in our prayers and continue to increase our faith in God. God demands us to exhibit strong Christian values in this present crisis situation. We need to overcome this trial by motivating ourselves as well as others about the grace that we are experiencing from God. Even though the church building is closed and we are not able to be part of the Holy Qurbana, we need to keep our faith in God firm and utilize the fellowships that we are provided through virtual platforms to overcome our struggles.
On September 13, we will be resuming our Sunday School classes via Zoom. Sunday School will be assembling from 9:00am - 10:00am on Sundays. As we are using virtual media, Parents are requested to help and bring their child (children) on time, to ensure their learning experience is sufficient and fruitful for their spiritual life.
I hope that the new month will provide us with some encouraging news regarding the Covid vaccine and shall allow us to gather in the church as soon as possible. Let us be optimistic and rely upon God’s grace.
May God bless us and keep us safe.
Prayers
Liju Achen
The Month of September has arrived. Almost all our kids are engaged in learning with the new mode. Even though there are many limitations in this new model of study, we are trying to cop up with it. May the Almighty provide His abundant grace to move forward.
In United States, the first Monday of September is observed as Labor Day. It is the time of honoring working people, their contributions, achievements and sacrifices in pursuit of national prosperity and well-being. Let us uphold them and their contributions in our prayers. Let us also remember those who are facing financial difficulties due to unemployment or being furloughed, especially during this time. Let us also pray for those who are working hard as essential and front line workers during this Covid 19 time.
Amidst this pandemic, God is so gracious to us and keeps us safe in his arms. As a faith community, we need to continue to uphold each other in our prayers and continue to increase our faith in God. God demands us to exhibit strong Christian values in this present crisis situation. We need to overcome this trial by motivating ourselves as well as others about the grace that we are experiencing from God. Even though the church building is closed and we are not able to be part of the Holy Qurbana, we need to keep our faith in God firm and utilize the fellowships that we are provided through virtual platforms to overcome our struggles.
On September 13, we will be resuming our Sunday School classes via Zoom. Sunday School will be assembling from 9:00am - 10:00am on Sundays. As we are using virtual media, Parents are requested to help and bring their child (children) on time, to ensure their learning experience is sufficient and fruitful for their spiritual life.
I hope that the new month will provide us with some encouraging news regarding the Covid vaccine and shall allow us to gather in the church as soon as possible. Let us be optimistic and rely upon God’s grace.
May God bless us and keep us safe.
Prayers
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the month of August 2020
Greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We are stepping into a new month August. It is a month in which our younger generation would have to wind up their vacation and return to the field of education. Let us pray for our children and the new mode of study that they have to face in their lives.
For the last five months we are going through ‘unprecedented’ experiences in our life. ‘Living with viruses’ is the real challenge of today. We have moved from a stage of ‘I know’ to ‘I don’t know’; Everywhere an ‘uncertainty’ rules our life. The only answer is to ‘live with faith’ in the midst of uncertainties.
Our motherland India is celebrating her Independence Day on August 15th. Let us thank God for the blessings that has being showered upon the nation. Let us pray for peace and harmony among the people.
Our worship are still going online. Most of our families are attending the services, prayer meetings and organization meetings via zoom. I request your continuous participation. Let us continue to pray for all healthcare and frontline workers.
Our ever first Virtual VBS is going on. My appreciation and thanks to all our youths, teachers and parents for their cooperation.
Western Region Yuvajana Sakhyam is conducting a “Sangeetha Sayahnam’ a musical meditation on Aug 7 Friday at 7:30 pm. Western Region MTVEA is conducting an evening seminar on Aug 15 Saturday at 6:00pm. I request all our members to take part in the meetings.
As the church we are completing 44 year as a witnessing community in this part of the land. Let us praise and thank God for His Grace and mercy that we have received and enjoyed through out in our faith journey.
In the midst's of this pandemic, let us have a strong faith that God is with us. He understands our suffering, accompanies us through it. Let us hold our hands with our children and direct their paths with love, wisdom and knowledge.
May the Almighty bless us all
Prayers
Liju Achen
We are stepping into a new month August. It is a month in which our younger generation would have to wind up their vacation and return to the field of education. Let us pray for our children and the new mode of study that they have to face in their lives.
For the last five months we are going through ‘unprecedented’ experiences in our life. ‘Living with viruses’ is the real challenge of today. We have moved from a stage of ‘I know’ to ‘I don’t know’; Everywhere an ‘uncertainty’ rules our life. The only answer is to ‘live with faith’ in the midst of uncertainties.
Our motherland India is celebrating her Independence Day on August 15th. Let us thank God for the blessings that has being showered upon the nation. Let us pray for peace and harmony among the people.
Our worship are still going online. Most of our families are attending the services, prayer meetings and organization meetings via zoom. I request your continuous participation. Let us continue to pray for all healthcare and frontline workers.
Our ever first Virtual VBS is going on. My appreciation and thanks to all our youths, teachers and parents for their cooperation.
Western Region Yuvajana Sakhyam is conducting a “Sangeetha Sayahnam’ a musical meditation on Aug 7 Friday at 7:30 pm. Western Region MTVEA is conducting an evening seminar on Aug 15 Saturday at 6:00pm. I request all our members to take part in the meetings.
As the church we are completing 44 year as a witnessing community in this part of the land. Let us praise and thank God for His Grace and mercy that we have received and enjoyed through out in our faith journey.
In the midst's of this pandemic, let us have a strong faith that God is with us. He understands our suffering, accompanies us through it. Let us hold our hands with our children and direct their paths with love, wisdom and knowledge.
May the Almighty bless us all
Prayers
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the Month of July 2020
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We are entering into a new month July. This month is very important for all Americans. United States of America celebrates its Independence Day on July 4th . Let us praise God for our country and uphold our leaders and the people in our prayers. Let us Pray that all the people work together to love one another unconditionally by making God as the source of love.
As a Church, July 3rd is observed as St Thomas Day. Let us keep in our mind the missionary zeal and faith affirmation of the Apostle to India, St Thomas. We will be having Special Holy Qurbana Service in Malayalam from the diocesan Centre on Friday, July 3rd celebrated by our Diocesan Bishop Rt Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa.
We usually like to call Thomas with a prefix ‘doubting’. But we need to know that even though struggled with a doubt, he was brave enough to ask about it and did not fake on it. He Made his doubts and reservations loud and clear. The Risen Christ took his doubts very seriously. Reached out to him and made his faith more meaningful and dynamic. Let us be like Thomas not to fake but to make our point loud and clear.
As we are continuing our online worship, I encourage all to participate in the worship services being arranged via Zoom, along with all other church ministries. Please give attention to the church schedule in this news letter or in our website to find the opportunities available for participation.
Let us continue to pray for the healing of humanity and the land. May the grace and blessings of the Triune God, be with us all.
Prayers
Liju Achen
We are entering into a new month July. This month is very important for all Americans. United States of America celebrates its Independence Day on July 4th . Let us praise God for our country and uphold our leaders and the people in our prayers. Let us Pray that all the people work together to love one another unconditionally by making God as the source of love.
As a Church, July 3rd is observed as St Thomas Day. Let us keep in our mind the missionary zeal and faith affirmation of the Apostle to India, St Thomas. We will be having Special Holy Qurbana Service in Malayalam from the diocesan Centre on Friday, July 3rd celebrated by our Diocesan Bishop Rt Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa.
We usually like to call Thomas with a prefix ‘doubting’. But we need to know that even though struggled with a doubt, he was brave enough to ask about it and did not fake on it. He Made his doubts and reservations loud and clear. The Risen Christ took his doubts very seriously. Reached out to him and made his faith more meaningful and dynamic. Let us be like Thomas not to fake but to make our point loud and clear.
As we are continuing our online worship, I encourage all to participate in the worship services being arranged via Zoom, along with all other church ministries. Please give attention to the church schedule in this news letter or in our website to find the opportunities available for participation.
Let us continue to pray for the healing of humanity and the land. May the grace and blessings of the Triune God, be with us all.
Prayers
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the month of June 2020
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Let us Praise and Thank God for His countless blessings and guidance that we have been experiencing even in the midst of COVID19.
Now as the Government has come up with new guidelines of living, we are slowly reopening and trying to come back to the ‘normal’. This normal will not be the same as that we had experienced before. Many restrictions and inclusions has to be adopted in our day to day life. Let us stick on to the guidelines that we have received and continue to Pray without hesitation.
Church is coloured with the presence of people, we also experience the happiness when coming together. But now it is not possible, yet I do know that God is still with us and His hands will lead us forward. God is not abandoning us but He is providing an extreme experience of life for every one of us.
The School Year has come to an end. I would like to congratulate all our children who are graduating this year and praising God for giving His guidance through out their studies.
As we are functioning as a virtual church, I am happy that all our organizations are functioning good with Zoom platform. We are starting Area prayer meetings from this month onwards in the same Zoom platform. I encourage all our members to attend the respective prayer group meetings. I would also like to remind about the google spread sheet send to you for Lesson Reading and Singing Songs.
As we move on, I seek your wholehearted co-operation and support towards parish activities and experience church life through media. Let us pray together, work together and make our parish a living one.
Stay Safe...
Prayers
Liju Achen
Let us Praise and Thank God for His countless blessings and guidance that we have been experiencing even in the midst of COVID19.
Now as the Government has come up with new guidelines of living, we are slowly reopening and trying to come back to the ‘normal’. This normal will not be the same as that we had experienced before. Many restrictions and inclusions has to be adopted in our day to day life. Let us stick on to the guidelines that we have received and continue to Pray without hesitation.
Church is coloured with the presence of people, we also experience the happiness when coming together. But now it is not possible, yet I do know that God is still with us and His hands will lead us forward. God is not abandoning us but He is providing an extreme experience of life for every one of us.
The School Year has come to an end. I would like to congratulate all our children who are graduating this year and praising God for giving His guidance through out their studies.
As we are functioning as a virtual church, I am happy that all our organizations are functioning good with Zoom platform. We are starting Area prayer meetings from this month onwards in the same Zoom platform. I encourage all our members to attend the respective prayer group meetings. I would also like to remind about the google spread sheet send to you for Lesson Reading and Singing Songs.
As we move on, I seek your wholehearted co-operation and support towards parish activities and experience church life through media. Let us pray together, work together and make our parish a living one.
Stay Safe...
Prayers
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the month of May 2020
Greetings to all in the Exalted name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
This is my fourth year with you. I praise God Almighty for enabling us to be the part of MTCLA family for the last three years. I pray that our church would continually be a place of experiencing God and to be channel for the witness for the salvific act of God
COVID-19 has spread far and wide in the whole world. We know that Our Country is badly affected by this Virus. Many of our friends are affected and some of them had been taken to eternal glory. We should not be panic but should take deliberate measures to bring down the community spread. Let us pray to our Lord, who has control over all, for the relief from this pandemic. Let us gratefully uphold in prayer the commendable service of health workers and all the medical support service staff. Especially let us uphold all our members who are working in this field.
As we are practicing social distancing and the restrictions for the functioning of religious organizations, Remember Churches are not being closed but only the Church Buildings. And We, the Church... Remains open...
We are exploring the possibilities of Virtual Church. Now we are functioning using You Tube, Zoom Video Conferencing and also with Tele conference. My thanks to all who are working hard behind the scenes to make this happen. I also encourage all our parish members to make use of this platforms to Worship our God. I am Happy that all the organizations of the church are making use of this technology for its functioning.
Prayer is the only way through which we can gain strength to face this challenge. Chain prayer is conducted by Sunday School teachers on Sundays, Sevika Sanghom members on Saturdays, and Sunday School students on week days. As the Church, we are planning again to have a chain prayer for 12 hrs on May 8 Friday (7:00am - 7:00pm). A google spread sheet is sent to all members. Please fill up your name in the convenient time slot. Let us hold our hands together against this pandemic.
I Wish that everybody stay safe at their respective places and pray for each other.
WE WILL OVERCOME THIS SITUATION WITH GOD…
Liju Achen
This is my fourth year with you. I praise God Almighty for enabling us to be the part of MTCLA family for the last three years. I pray that our church would continually be a place of experiencing God and to be channel for the witness for the salvific act of God
COVID-19 has spread far and wide in the whole world. We know that Our Country is badly affected by this Virus. Many of our friends are affected and some of them had been taken to eternal glory. We should not be panic but should take deliberate measures to bring down the community spread. Let us pray to our Lord, who has control over all, for the relief from this pandemic. Let us gratefully uphold in prayer the commendable service of health workers and all the medical support service staff. Especially let us uphold all our members who are working in this field.
As we are practicing social distancing and the restrictions for the functioning of religious organizations, Remember Churches are not being closed but only the Church Buildings. And We, the Church... Remains open...
We are exploring the possibilities of Virtual Church. Now we are functioning using You Tube, Zoom Video Conferencing and also with Tele conference. My thanks to all who are working hard behind the scenes to make this happen. I also encourage all our parish members to make use of this platforms to Worship our God. I am Happy that all the organizations of the church are making use of this technology for its functioning.
Prayer is the only way through which we can gain strength to face this challenge. Chain prayer is conducted by Sunday School teachers on Sundays, Sevika Sanghom members on Saturdays, and Sunday School students on week days. As the Church, we are planning again to have a chain prayer for 12 hrs on May 8 Friday (7:00am - 7:00pm). A google spread sheet is sent to all members. Please fill up your name in the convenient time slot. Let us hold our hands together against this pandemic.
I Wish that everybody stay safe at their respective places and pray for each other.
WE WILL OVERCOME THIS SITUATION WITH GOD…
Liju Achen
Vicars Message for the Month - April 2020
Dearly beloved in Christ,
Warm greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are now in the middle of the greatest crisis of our age. COVID19 is an infectious disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus -2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China and has spread globally, resulting in the ongoing 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic. World Nations are struggling hard to make the situation under control. Since the medicine or vaccines are not yet known, “Social distancing” followed by ‘close down’ and ‘lock down’ are the measures implemented by the governments to fight against the virus. This resulted in the closure of many offices and religious institutions including church. Being a worshipping community, we are prompted to the new practice of prayer and worship through virtual media.
The Month of April blossom along with the Risen Christ. It also reminds us of the cross and the crucifixion of Jesus which gives more inspiration for us to follow the footsteps of Jesus. The cross has given us a new identity and taught us values for our transformation. It invites us to come out of our sinful life and lead a sacrificial life. During the celebration, let us keep Christ’s death and resurrection at the center and remember God’s greatest act of love to the humanity.
The Diocesan Sunday was celebrated on March1. Rev. Larry P. Varghese had visited our parish and reminded us about the mission work and the functioning of our diocese.
The dedication service of the executive committee members for the year 2020 was held on March 8, Sunday. I appreciate them for taking the responsibility and pray that may our good Lord strengthen and bless them to do the entrusted ministry.
Since there are restriction to come together at church, we have adopted virtual media for worship. We are using Tele Conference Call, Zoom Video Conferencing and You Tube live. I thank Mr. Daniel P. George & Mr. Soji Varghese for their effort to make the virtual medium happen.
On Hosanna Sunday, April 5 (7:00am), Maundy Thursday, April 9 (4:00pm), Good Friday April 10 (7:00am) and Easter Sunday April 12 (7:00am) we will be having live telecast of worship from the diocese. On April 6,7,8 (Mon, Tue, Wed) we will have Sandhya Namaskaram along with the churches in western region via Zoom Conference call at 7:00pm. On April 19 and 26, we will be having combined worship with St Andrews via Zoom at 10:30am.
The foundation of our faith is Jesus’ resurrection. Every worship proclaim aloud that the Lord Jesus is risen. Let us be in our knees and intercede for the world. Let’s hold our hand together and show the power of prayer.
Wish you a Blessed Easter!
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Warm greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are now in the middle of the greatest crisis of our age. COVID19 is an infectious disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus -2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China and has spread globally, resulting in the ongoing 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic. World Nations are struggling hard to make the situation under control. Since the medicine or vaccines are not yet known, “Social distancing” followed by ‘close down’ and ‘lock down’ are the measures implemented by the governments to fight against the virus. This resulted in the closure of many offices and religious institutions including church. Being a worshipping community, we are prompted to the new practice of prayer and worship through virtual media.
The Month of April blossom along with the Risen Christ. It also reminds us of the cross and the crucifixion of Jesus which gives more inspiration for us to follow the footsteps of Jesus. The cross has given us a new identity and taught us values for our transformation. It invites us to come out of our sinful life and lead a sacrificial life. During the celebration, let us keep Christ’s death and resurrection at the center and remember God’s greatest act of love to the humanity.
The Diocesan Sunday was celebrated on March1. Rev. Larry P. Varghese had visited our parish and reminded us about the mission work and the functioning of our diocese.
The dedication service of the executive committee members for the year 2020 was held on March 8, Sunday. I appreciate them for taking the responsibility and pray that may our good Lord strengthen and bless them to do the entrusted ministry.
Since there are restriction to come together at church, we have adopted virtual media for worship. We are using Tele Conference Call, Zoom Video Conferencing and You Tube live. I thank Mr. Daniel P. George & Mr. Soji Varghese for their effort to make the virtual medium happen.
On Hosanna Sunday, April 5 (7:00am), Maundy Thursday, April 9 (4:00pm), Good Friday April 10 (7:00am) and Easter Sunday April 12 (7:00am) we will be having live telecast of worship from the diocese. On April 6,7,8 (Mon, Tue, Wed) we will have Sandhya Namaskaram along with the churches in western region via Zoom Conference call at 7:00pm. On April 19 and 26, we will be having combined worship with St Andrews via Zoom at 10:30am.
The foundation of our faith is Jesus’ resurrection. Every worship proclaim aloud that the Lord Jesus is risen. Let us be in our knees and intercede for the world. Let’s hold our hand together and show the power of prayer.
Wish you a Blessed Easter!
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - March 2020
Warm greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are entering into a most beautiful time of the season - The Spring. The trees and plants had shifted from the barren, ideal stage to a blossom, active one. It is the time of renewing and thus gives happiness to the surroundings.
The world nations are in great alarm as the ‘COVID-19’ is spreading very fast throughout the world. Let us ask for Gods intervention and protection and also pray for the affected.
As we are moving through the Lent season, let us make it a time to walk with the Lord towards the cross, which symbolizes love, sacrifice, humility and obedience.
The first Sunday of March is dedicated as Diocesan Sunday. Rev. Larry P. Varghese (Vicar - Mar Thoma Church of Silicon Valley and Mar Thoma Congregation, Sacramento) will be visiting our parish. Let us uphold our Diocese and its mission in our prayers.
The World Day of Prayer will be held on March 14 by the leadership of our Sevika Sanghom. The theme is “Rise! Take Your Mat and Walk” (John 5: 2–9).
The Western Region Sevika Sanghom Conference will be held on March 28, 2020 at Phoenix Mar Thoma Church, AZ. The theme of the conference is
" Women as Ambassadors of Faith" (Ruth 1: 16). The main speakers will be Rev. Dennis Abraham and Mrs. Liba Varghese. I request all Sevika Sanghom Members to take part in the meeting.
I would like to appreciate the former Executive Committee Members, Organization Office Bearers for your leadership and hard work. As the new Kaisthana Samithy is taking charge form this month, I would like to wish them all the best and pray that their leadership may lead the church to more heights.
I pray that may the Great Lent help us to have a time of Renewal and Transformation and be a living witness of Christ in this land.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
We are entering into a most beautiful time of the season - The Spring. The trees and plants had shifted from the barren, ideal stage to a blossom, active one. It is the time of renewing and thus gives happiness to the surroundings.
The world nations are in great alarm as the ‘COVID-19’ is spreading very fast throughout the world. Let us ask for Gods intervention and protection and also pray for the affected.
As we are moving through the Lent season, let us make it a time to walk with the Lord towards the cross, which symbolizes love, sacrifice, humility and obedience.
The first Sunday of March is dedicated as Diocesan Sunday. Rev. Larry P. Varghese (Vicar - Mar Thoma Church of Silicon Valley and Mar Thoma Congregation, Sacramento) will be visiting our parish. Let us uphold our Diocese and its mission in our prayers.
The World Day of Prayer will be held on March 14 by the leadership of our Sevika Sanghom. The theme is “Rise! Take Your Mat and Walk” (John 5: 2–9).
The Western Region Sevika Sanghom Conference will be held on March 28, 2020 at Phoenix Mar Thoma Church, AZ. The theme of the conference is
" Women as Ambassadors of Faith" (Ruth 1: 16). The main speakers will be Rev. Dennis Abraham and Mrs. Liba Varghese. I request all Sevika Sanghom Members to take part in the meeting.
I would like to appreciate the former Executive Committee Members, Organization Office Bearers for your leadership and hard work. As the new Kaisthana Samithy is taking charge form this month, I would like to wish them all the best and pray that their leadership may lead the church to more heights.
I pray that may the Great Lent help us to have a time of Renewal and Transformation and be a living witness of Christ in this land.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - February 2020
Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
The first month of the new year left us with its unique experiences. Now we are in the second month, Let us pray to God for new blessings in the coming days.
The Great Lent begins on Sunday 23rd February. Fasting, Prayer, Charity and Almsgiving are the major factors that strengthens our lent. Fasting is not only an abstinence from food, rather it is the way of self-disciplining oneself so that one gets greater trained to listen and obey the Word of God. Prayer helps to have a close relationship with God and to attain the spiritual power to overcome all the struggles in the life of this world. Charity help us to know the needs of our fellow beings and respond to them. Almsgiving helps us to affirm that all that we have is through God. So observance of Lent not only remembers us the suffering and sacrifice of our Lord but also to respond creatively to the needs of people around us.
The 125th Maramon Convention is on February 9 - 16, 2020. It has a significant contribution to the life and growth of our Church. Conventions are organized so that we can sing, pray and meditate on the Word of God for a renewed vision and lifestyle in this world. The Messages had touched many in the past and in the present. Let us pray for all the Speakers, Bishops, Clergies, Evangelists, Organizers and for everyone who attends the meeting.
7th Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelistic Association Western Region Conference will be held at Mar Thoma Church of Silicon Valley on February15 & 16. The theme of the conference is “Treasure in jars of clay” (2 Cori 4: 7). The main Speaker will be Dr. Thomas George. I request your participation all throughout the programme.
33rd Diocesan Family Conference will be held in Atlanta Carmel Mar Thoma Centre from July 2 - 5, 2020. This conference is considered as ‘Global Mar Thoma Meet 2020’. Registration has started. Please make necessary arrangements to participate in the conference.
As we prepare for another season of lent, let us Introspect our lives, Humble our ‘self's’, Repent for our sins and Ask for the Holy Spirit to abide in us.
May the Grace of Almighty be with us.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
The first month of the new year left us with its unique experiences. Now we are in the second month, Let us pray to God for new blessings in the coming days.
The Great Lent begins on Sunday 23rd February. Fasting, Prayer, Charity and Almsgiving are the major factors that strengthens our lent. Fasting is not only an abstinence from food, rather it is the way of self-disciplining oneself so that one gets greater trained to listen and obey the Word of God. Prayer helps to have a close relationship with God and to attain the spiritual power to overcome all the struggles in the life of this world. Charity help us to know the needs of our fellow beings and respond to them. Almsgiving helps us to affirm that all that we have is through God. So observance of Lent not only remembers us the suffering and sacrifice of our Lord but also to respond creatively to the needs of people around us.
The 125th Maramon Convention is on February 9 - 16, 2020. It has a significant contribution to the life and growth of our Church. Conventions are organized so that we can sing, pray and meditate on the Word of God for a renewed vision and lifestyle in this world. The Messages had touched many in the past and in the present. Let us pray for all the Speakers, Bishops, Clergies, Evangelists, Organizers and for everyone who attends the meeting.
7th Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelistic Association Western Region Conference will be held at Mar Thoma Church of Silicon Valley on February15 & 16. The theme of the conference is “Treasure in jars of clay” (2 Cori 4: 7). The main Speaker will be Dr. Thomas George. I request your participation all throughout the programme.
33rd Diocesan Family Conference will be held in Atlanta Carmel Mar Thoma Centre from July 2 - 5, 2020. This conference is considered as ‘Global Mar Thoma Meet 2020’. Registration has started. Please make necessary arrangements to participate in the conference.
As we prepare for another season of lent, let us Introspect our lives, Humble our ‘self's’, Repent for our sins and Ask for the Holy Spirit to abide in us.
May the Grace of Almighty be with us.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - January 2020
Dearly Beloved in Christ,
Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We have entered the New Year 2020. Let us thank God for the unique paths through which the Almighty has guided us throughout the year 2019. In this new year, Let’s prayerfully submit ourselves into the mighty hands of our creator to face the challenges boldly. We may have different thoughts and dreams for the New Year. Usually we think ahead and carefully plan things in our lives. We may picture in our minds how our future is going to unfold. But in reality, things do not go as planned. Some doors may close while others open. Some people turn against us while some others support. Some unexpected incidents which can turn around our lives may happen. Even though we plan carefully, life ahead is uncertain. If something happens against our plan, it may be because God has something completely different in His mind…
The beginning of a New Year gives us an opportunity to have a fresh start with a deep faith in Christ. This is a time to encounter with God and find ways to become closer to the Lord. God will always make a way even though it looks like there is no way. He will give strength for every battle, wisdom for every decision, peace that passes understanding. He will not only bring our dreams to pass but He will give even the secret desires of our hearts. Let us trust in the Lord who can guide us in our ways of life. Let us commit ourselves to encounter with the Lord each day, forget our failures, give up our grudges, restore our relationships and turn back from our sins. A good commitment will create a difference in your family, parish and community. Let us begin this New Year with a focus on making Christ centered plans with a desire for what God wants to do in each of our lives. As we move forward in the new year, let this be our resolution for the new year.
Last month we had our carol service programme at Azusa Pacific university and also the one day retreat of Sevika Sanghom at church. I appreciate your prayerful participation for the programmes. Let me take this opportunity to thank you all for the prayers, support and participation throughout the year 2019.
We are called to live by the values of true discipleship, the greatest of which are “be obedient'' and “be submissive.” Let the New Year be a time of re-dedication for us to have good spiritual growth in all aspects of our lives. I look forward for your active and prayerful participation in the New Year. May the Almighty Lord be with us and bless our ways and our ministry in this faith journey. May God bless you all abundantly in this new year
With Prayerful Regards,
Liju Achen
Dearly Beloved in Christ,
Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We have entered the New Year 2020. Let us thank God for the unique paths through which the Almighty has guided us throughout the year 2019. In this new year, Let’s prayerfully submit ourselves into the mighty hands of our creator to face the challenges boldly. We may have different thoughts and dreams for the New Year. Usually we think ahead and carefully plan things in our lives. We may picture in our minds how our future is going to unfold. But in reality, things do not go as planned. Some doors may close while others open. Some people turn against us while some others support. Some unexpected incidents which can turn around our lives may happen. Even though we plan carefully, life ahead is uncertain. If something happens against our plan, it may be because God has something completely different in His mind…
The beginning of a New Year gives us an opportunity to have a fresh start with a deep faith in Christ. This is a time to encounter with God and find ways to become closer to the Lord. God will always make a way even though it looks like there is no way. He will give strength for every battle, wisdom for every decision, peace that passes understanding. He will not only bring our dreams to pass but He will give even the secret desires of our hearts. Let us trust in the Lord who can guide us in our ways of life. Let us commit ourselves to encounter with the Lord each day, forget our failures, give up our grudges, restore our relationships and turn back from our sins. A good commitment will create a difference in your family, parish and community. Let us begin this New Year with a focus on making Christ centered plans with a desire for what God wants to do in each of our lives. As we move forward in the new year, let this be our resolution for the new year.
Last month we had our carol service programme at Azusa Pacific university and also the one day retreat of Sevika Sanghom at church. I appreciate your prayerful participation for the programmes. Let me take this opportunity to thank you all for the prayers, support and participation throughout the year 2019.
We are called to live by the values of true discipleship, the greatest of which are “be obedient'' and “be submissive.” Let the New Year be a time of re-dedication for us to have good spiritual growth in all aspects of our lives. I look forward for your active and prayerful participation in the New Year. May the Almighty Lord be with us and bless our ways and our ministry in this faith journey. May God bless you all abundantly in this new year
- Wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2020.
With Prayerful Regards,
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - November 2019
Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
November is a month of Thanksgiving. It refers to the guidance and blessings of God in the hard times of the early settlers (pilgrims) in this Country. In the midst of horror voyage, fierce winter and the death of their fellow companions, the pilgrims did not lose hope of their steadfast faith in God. In the fall of 1621, they first celebrated Thanksgiving at Plymouth. As the nation celebrates Thanksgiving on November 28 Thursday, let us join with our fellow Americans to praise and thank God for His manifold blessings showered upon us.
In a world of affluence, we lose the sense of appreciation and thanks. Often we consider our blessings are our hard work and we forget the presence of God in our prosperity. A sense of thankfulness will change our worldview. In our daily life, we should be thankful to God and others for all the blessings we are enjoying each moment. Our life, health, family, job and plenty of innumerable gifts are from God, but we conveniently forget God, who is the giver of these blessings.
As an immigrant community and as a Church our diocese celebrates the Diaspora Sunday on November 24, to remember our past and to thank God for preserving and prospering us in this nation. It also reminds us to pass it onto our next generations.
This year’s parish convention will be on Nov 01st - 03rd. Rev. Dr. M. J. Joseph will be the main speaker. Theme will be ‘Victorious Living’. Parish convention is not the time to boast that we are the best than the rest of the world but should kindle an earnest desire to become a better human being. It is the time to nourish our mind with God’s shalom, to open our inner eyes to God’s Love and to direct our will to God’s imagination.
Church general body is scheduled on November 17. Main Agenda will be Election of Office bearers & Committee members for the year 2020. I request everyone to ensure your presence during this meeting. May God guide us to elect appropriate people to lead the church in various capacities.
We are coming closer to the end of the financial year. Please remember to pay your monthly Subscription and other Contributions, which are due.
May the compassionate God be with us and bless us!!!
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - October 2019
Dearly beloved in Christ,
We have entered the last quarter of this year. Let us thank God for His Blessings upon us. May God Almighty bless us to continue His Ministry in this world.
The month of October marks the beginning of a new season, Autumn. It is the season of change. A change of old to new. Let us look into ourselves and find where we need to have a change. And look forward for a new life.
As per the liturgical calendar, The first Sunday is observed as Voluntary Evangelist’s Day (Edavaka mission Sunday). This day reminds us of the ‘great call’, Every Marthomite is an Evangelist. It emphasizes the spiritual growth and leadership of lay people. Let us rise up and move forward in doing the duties entrusted on us as an evangelist.
Second Sunday is observed as the day of Differently Abled. This observance helps us to know that differently abled are not to be marginalized but they have to be brought forward in their strengths.
Third Sunday is observed as the Youth Sunday. Youngsters are the backbone and the power of a church. So they have to be strengthened every day. Vibrant youth symbolizes an active parish. They should grow in faith with Lord and lead a prayerful life by upholding Christian values .
Fourth Sunday is Family Sunday. Family is the basic unit of church and nation. It is the basis of God's creation. It is through the family that we pass our care, faith, love etc to the coming generation.
This Month we will be having Fall Cleaning on 12th Saturday at church. I request your support for the cleaning.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa Our former diocesan Episcopa and present Bishop of Mumbai Diocese will be visiting us on Oct 20, Sunday and will be leading the Holy Qurbana. On that day, Service will begin at 09:30am. I request your prayerful participation. Let us pray that this visit be a blessing for each one of us and also for the church.
Let us submit ourselves before Christ for His guidance and support and look forward positively to the changes in our life.
May God bless us all !
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - September 2019
Greetings to you in the name of Triune God
Labor Day falls on first Monday of September. It is the time we recognize the work force in America and their contribution to the country. Let us remember the hard work of all Americans throughout history till date. Our country is the result of hard work. Let us thank God for His wonderful providence and care.
According to the church calendar, first Sunday of September is observed as Education Sunday. Education is not only attaining ‘Knowledge’ but it should also be a channel for becoming a good ‘Human’. Thus it helps us to develop good personality and morality, to have a meaningful life. Let us pray for our children, so that they may attain good knowledge and wisdom in their life.
Sevika Sanghom Day and Senior Citizens Day also falls in the month of September. The role of women in Family, Church and Society is very important. I appreciate all the ladies of our church for their sacrificial service for the family and community. Our elders, have plenty of experiences of God’s loving care and mercy, enabling them to gain practical wisdom and spiritual maturity, on serving their family and the society. This experiences lights the way for the coming generation to move forward. Let us thank God for all the senior citizens of our parish.
Onam, the festival of Kerala, falls on September. Message of Onam is: All are equal, love and care each other, no fear, no lies, no deceit and bad words. Everywhere there is goodness and all are experiencing the peace and happiness. This is the kingdom of God experience. If we consider others as great and as God’s children (Phili.2) then this concept will be fulfilled.
Our Sunday School classes will begin on Sept 8 Sunday. There will be a special dedication service for students. I request all parents to encourage children for the dedication service and be regular in Sunday School classes. We also have our Annual Church Picnic, Traditional Kerala Sadhya. I pray that these gathering and fellowship enrich our relationship.
May God bless us all !
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - August 2019
Greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The month of August marks the beginning of New School Year. It is the time for dedication and felicitation. I wish and pray that may God Almighty give a bright future to all of our children who enters into the new class, new courses and who seek good Job. We do not know our future but believe that our future is in the hands of God. If we submit ourselves in God’s hands, we will be blessed.
For us, as the Church, August is the month of thanks giving. We are entering into a new year of our existence as a church in this part of the world. Our journey as a church began on August 15, 1976. We started with fourteen families and today by God's grace, we have grown to about 130 families. We are proud that we could birth another two churches. All point to the massiveness of divine grace that we experienced as a faith community. Let us thank God for all the blessings that we had received through last 43 years.
The first-ever Joint Conference of the Western Region was held at Azusa Pacific University. Roughly, 210 delegates were present from July 12 - 14 (Friday - Sunday) to hear the word of God spoken in 5 parallel track sessions. I congratulate all the members who had taken part in the conference. Moreover, thanks to all who had helped for transportation and accommodation for the requested delegates.
All the Sundays in the month of August are set apart for First Fruit Collection and Auction. I encourage every members to take part in the event whole-heartedly. Sunday School is planning to have Beach Picnic on August 24, Saturday. I request every parents to bring their children and become a part of this fun event.
I hope and pray, that all our endeavors, be a channel to experience Gods love and to propagate this Love to our fellow being.
May the good Lord bless us all!
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - July 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
By the grace of God, we have completed half of this financial year. Let us thank our Lord for His countless blessings, guidance, presence and providence in our faith journey for the last six months and in the past. I request your whole hearted prayer and support for the continued spiritual growth of the Church.
United States celebrates its Independence Day on the Fourth of July. In 1776, the 13 British colonies in North America protested the limitations placed on them by the British Monarchy and engaged in a struggle that gave birth to a new Republic. The infant nation soon adopted the now famous document known as the Declaration of Independence. We celebrate this day with colorful fireworks and patriotic celebrations. Let us pray for the unity and upliftment of the country. As we celebrate and thank God for the freedom we enjoy in the country, we must also praise God for the freedom that is found in Christ. Jesus made a declaration of independence on the cross for all humanity who are under the bondage of sin and death. The sinless one, took our place on Calvary and died for our sins. But remember, this freedom is not to impose our will and interest on others. But this is spiritual freedom to reveal God and the glory of His will to others. Therefore, we are called to serve one another in love. In every action we do, every word we speak, everywhere we go and everything in our life should be with love. Let us celebrate freedom in Christ through love
The Theme for July 7, Sunday is based on Christian giving. Paul reminds us and the Church in Corinth that Christians are meant to live with open hands. In our day to day life, God ‘gives’ us His blessings, but we are tempted to strengthen our grip on the blessing and not let go. The fear that many have is that, if they give they will suffer loss. In a purely materialistic sense this may be true. But spiritually, we only gain when we give. We need to have a heart of giving not grabbing. Are we ready to give without considering the consequences?
I would like to thank the conveners, parents, teachers, volunteers, and all who had worked hard for the success of the VBS 2019. My appreciation to all the members who had registered for the first Western Region Joint Conference, which is scheduled on July 12-14 at Azusa Pacific University. I pray that, the experience we gain from the conference sessions may help us to lead a fruitful Christian life.
Yours in Christ Service
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - June 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Month of June marks the welcoming mood of summer. It is the time of academic year ending and we have to praise God for the divine protection and guidance that our children experienced throughout the year. I would like to congratulate all our 2019 graduates and my wishes and prayers for their future endeavors.
As per the church calendar, the first Sunday of June is observed as Students Sunday. ‘Grown in the wisdom’ is the theme for meditation. Education imparts knowledge and knowledge mold one’s personality. But it is only possible if you gain wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge. In other words, when knowledge and the allied experiences are submitted to the will of God, it becomes wisdom. When we say we must grow in wisdom, it means that we are committed to apply or use the knowledge of the truth that God revealed to us in the right time and in right sense. Let us live our life wisely by seeking the Word of God and be connected to Him through our Prayers.
Father's Day is on the third Sunday of June (June 16). It is a time set aside to value and celebrates father and fatherhood in general, including father figures such as guardians and grandfathers. It celebrates a father’s role in one’s life and reflect upon paternal bonding. Let us thank God for our fathers and continue to pray for them.
Our VBS is scheduled on June 14,15,16 & 23. The theme will be ‘Giddy Up Junction’ - taking God’s love to new frontiers. I request all our parents to encourage our children to participate in VBS and request your whole hearted support and prayers.
Western region is hosting its first Joint Conference at Azusa Pacific University on July 12-14, 2019 . There are separate streams for Children, Youths, Women and Men. Each Stream is led by individual speakers. More details and registration procedures are available in our church website. Let us make this a good opportunity to share the fellowship with the church members across the region.
May God Almighty bless us to lead our life wisely in this world.
Yours in Christ Service
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - May 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Greetings to all in the Exalted name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We received one more year to celebrate Easter. Passion Week services went on good. It was a time to worship Christ and to identify with the pain of Jesus in our body. The love that revealed on the Cross (Forgiving, Self Giving, and Redeeming) should be our guiding force. May God make our dedication stronger and lead us to a fruitful Christian life. I appreciate all our church members for their meaningful participation and thanks for the arrangements that has been made during the passion week services.
We celebrate Mothers Day on May 12. It is the time of honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds and influence of mothers in society. The role of the Mother is like the thread used to bind books. Her's is the thread of love that keeps the family together during both despair and happiness. Let us give thanks to God for all our loving and caring mothers.
Memorial Day falls on May 26. It is a day for remembering those who have died in service of the country. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War Soldiers. Let us thank and pray for the brave Soldiers and their families.
As we are approaching Summer, there are many upcoming conferences, both regional and diocese. Our region is hosting its first Joint Conference on July 12-14, 2019 at Azusa Pacific University. I encourage all to participate in the conferences.
I praise God almighty for enabling us to complete one more year as a part of MTCLA family. I pray that let our church continue to be a place for experiencing God and be a channel for witnessing the salvific act of God. Let us join our hands together and work for the Glory of God; so that our generations will uphold the ‘Values’ and ‘Traditions’. May God bless us all.
Yours in Christ Service
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - April 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord, Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.
We are approaching to the celebration of the central theme of Christian faith - the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Meaning of Easter is honoring and recognizing Christ’s resurrection from the dead and His promise of eternal life for all who believes in Him.
‘Newness’ is the theme for Easter. When we look to nature, the season of Spring brings newness everywhere. Fresh buds bloom and the earth seems to come back to life. More over this is the super bloom time for California, A time which gives us pleasant feelings.
Even though crucifixion and death of Jesus brings disappointment, Easter gives the gift of peace, power, and purpose in our lives. The resurrection reminds us that Jesus Christ is the ‘Son of God’ and His sacrifice has saved each one of us. It also declares that He will come again to judge the world.
The risen Christ experience was different for each disciples. It gave new life and Joy into the life of Mary Magdalene, who became the first witness of the resurrected Christ. For Thomas it was turning point from doubt to true disciple. For Seven disciples who went back to fishing under the leadership of Peter, the risen Lord not only gave them direction in their fishing but also comforted them with food and love. Peter was restored to a fuller fellowship with Christ. Christ had walked, talked and taught the scriptures to the two disciples on their way from Jerusalem to Emmaus. The risen Lord changed Paul from persecuting to proclaiming.
As we celebrate Easter, I Pray that may the power of resurrection transform our lives, and help us to share the good news that ‘Jesus is risen’.
HAPPY EASTER
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - March 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Let us Praise and Thank God for enabling us to enter into a new month. The great lent begins on the first Sunday (March 03). Lent is a time for renewal and self-discipline.
It is not incidental, but our willingness. Jesus Christ had spent 40 days in the wilderness to prepare himself for His ministry. He sacrificed many ‘worldly pleasures’ and deliberately took time to stop and experience the presence of God. This equipped him to do His ministry - the ministry of suffering and painfully dying for others. Jesus is calling each and every one of us to accept the same ministry. Let us spend time preparing ourselves to have the proper relationship with God. To have a right relationship with God means, we need to have the right relationship with others. But in our day to day life, we have followed our own ways and desires. Let us repent and transform ourselves during this Lenten season by reflecting, repenting, and praying. Let us also limit our luxuries in our lives and contribute the same for charity.
Western Regional MTVEA Conference was held on February 16 & 17 at Horeb Mar Thoma Church, Los Angeles . My appreciation to all our church members who had taken time to participate in the conference. We are observing Diocesan Sunday on March 03rd, Rev. Dennis Abraham (Vicar, Mar Thoma of San Fransico & Horeb Mar Thoma Church, Los Angeles, will be celebrating the Holy Communion Service as a part of Pulpit Exchange from the diocese. Let us uphold our Diocese and its activities in our prayers. Our parish is observing the fourth Saturday of this month as World Day of prayer along with the Sevika Sanghom meeting.
During this Lent season, let us re-examine our priorities and have a creative transformation in our ‘SELVES’
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - February 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We have entered the month of February. For a Marthomite coming from India, this month arises the nostalgic memories of the great Maramon Convention, on the sand bed of the bank of river Pampa . This riverbank has to say a great history of Revival, Renewal and Rededication, which contributed a lot in the growth of the Mar Thoma Community. Wherever we are placed, we share the spirit of that revival. Being an Eastern Reformed Church, revival is, and has to be a constant process in our faith journey. Revival is not just a loud prayers and singing, it is an experience of pouring the spirit of new life in all our activities. Let us light up the light again and let it shine upon the nations. The 124th Maramon Convention will be held from February 10 to 17 . We are bound to pray for the listeners, speakers and organizers of the convention so that God can transform the life of the believers for a better harvest.
The Grand Finale of the Centenary celebrations of Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sangham will be held on February 09, 2019 at the Maramon sand bed as ‘World Mar Thoma Women’s meet’ . Let us remember the pioneers of the organization who had worked hard to spread the good news in midst of sufferings and poverty. Let us also thank for the continued leadership for the organization.
As we had entered into new financial year, Let us thank God for the blessings and guidance we had received during the past year and focus on the spiritual values and Biblical principles which will equip us to lead a blessed life. “New visions lead to new heights”. Let us move forward as a faith community to achieve the heights, which God Almighty desires on us. May the presence and fellowship of the Triune God rest and abide with us in the forthcoming days.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - January 2019
Dearly Beloved in Christ
One more year passed and now we are entering a New Year. Let us thank our God for the protection, guidance and care that He had given through out the last year. It was a time of mixed emotions. Both happiness and sadness had walked through our lives but we could face them boldly and stand firm on the rock, our savior Jesus Christ. Let us thank God for all the possibilities of this new year. Let us join with thepsalmist by saying “What shall I offer to the Lord for all Hisgoodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord". (Psalm 116:12, 13). Let us take a vow in this new year that we will be more better people. For this we need to develop an attitude of discipleship through faith and love. There is no doubt that all of us will be confronted by countless challenges this new year. Yet, remain strong in faith and trust in God Almighty so that we can move forward and overcome the hurdles in our life because our God is faithful!!!
Last month we celebrated the incarnation of our Savior Jesus Christ. Through the celebration of Christmas, we tasted the deep love of God. Christmas inspires us to take the challenges in life for the Savior. I pray that this new year be a blessing to all and move forward with humbleness and spirit of forgiveness.
Happy New Year
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - December 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
We are in the Christmas season, a joyous season of the year, where we acknowledgewith sincere gratitude the Father’sincomparable gift to us, His Son, Jesus Christ. Christmas can be defined as a celebration to give our very best to others, not only to friends and relatives but and to the lesser privileged. also to Today Christmas has become a celebration without Christ experience. For many people it is a time for worldly pleasures like alcoholism, eating, merry making, and shopping. But remember the worldly pleasures are expensive, temporary and will be lost. But the gift from God gives real joy of salvation through Christ that is free and eternal which cannot be taken by others. The church has set 25 days of lent starting from December 1. It is for the purification of our lives. In this lent, let us take a decision that we will not do any harm to others through our thoughts, our words and our deeds. Let us make our hearts clean so that Christ will be born in us and we will grow up in Christ.
Month of November had left us. Wild fires had struck many parts of our sate. Many had lost their life, their loved ones, houses etc. Let us uphold them in our prayers.
Edavaka Mission had conducted canned food drive through out the month of November and we are able to give them to Shepherd Pantry, A Non Profit Corporation which provides help to the needy. In the month of December Edavaka Mission is planning to collect Blankets. Kindly participate in the blanket drive.
On December 1st we have One Day Retreat of Sevika Sanghom , Christmas get on December 22nd we have Christmas Carol Service, I pray that these programmes may help us to strengthen our relationship.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us reflect the Love and Care that we receive from our Father and make this season a blessed one. enemies together of Youth fellowship and
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - November 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
Warm greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ……
We are in the fall season. Albert Camus says that “This season is a second spring where every leaves turned to be as flower”. The plants and trees turn to be golden in colour. This has being a great inspiration for many writers and poets. Autumn is the transition season that leads us from the hot bright, sunny months into the cold, dark nights of winter. Let this season be starting point of renewal and rebirth.
November 22nd Thursday United States of America celebrates the day of thanksgiving with a grateful heart. This is the day to thank God for victory in war, for good harvest and for deliverance from killer diseases and epidemics. Thanks giving day is the celebration of fellowship, caring and sharing. Let us join our hands and express our solidarity and prayers towards our Nation. .
Third Sunday of November is set apart as the Diaspora Sunday. Being a Mar Thoma Diaspora community in this land, we are called to bear testimony to a rich heritage that we have inherited from our forefathers. May the spirit of God enrich and educate us to be the agents of peacemakers and equip us to be the real witnessing Mar Thoma community.
The parish and her organizations are having General Body meeting to elect the Office Bearers for the year 2019. A lot of dedication and time is required to carry out the duties. I urge members with commitment and dedication to come forward and take up the responsibilities. May God guide us to elect appropriate people who are faithful to Christ and loyal to Church.
As we are coming closer to the end of the financial year. Please remember to pay your monthly subscription and other contributions which are due. I appreciate the parish members for your participation in our Annual Parish Convention . It was a blessed time for introspection, renewal and rededication.
May the loving and caring God be with us and bless us in our day today life...
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - October 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
We are entering into the last quarter of the year 2018. Let us Thank God for His mercy and compas-sion that we had received. Let us humble ourselves before our Lord and pray for His continued guidance and support.
According to Church calendar, The First Sunday is the Voluntary Evangelists Association Day. This organization was started in 1924 under the leadership of Late Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan with a great vision “Every Marthomite is a Missionary”. It has seven goals: 1. Bible Study 2. Sharing Experiences 3. House Visits 4. Intercessory Prayers 5. Conducting Prayer Groups 6. Medical Care for the poor and sick 7. Gospel Work among non-Christians. Edavaka Mission is the basic unit in the church. Let us pray and stretch forth our helping hands to all the mission work carried out in our Diocese and all over India.
The Second Sunday is set apart to remember the physically and mentally handicapped people. They are created by God with various talents. They are to be accepted with equality. Let us remember the differently abled people in our society and may God grant them strength to live for His glory.
Third Sunday is Youth Sunday. Youths are the pillars of the Church and Society. This age is the time of possibilities, dreams and actions. Mar Thoma Yuvajana Sakyam was started in 1933 to help the youth to witness the kingdom of God through Worship, Study, Witness and Service. Let us pray that the possibilities of ‘youth’ may be used in constructive ways to build up the society. .
Fourth Sunday is Family Sunday. Family is the basic unit of the Church and Society. It is the place where we learn the basics to live. Here parents transmit human values to the younger generation. Children born and brought up in a family will grow up with what they see and experience in their family. Family rests on Relationship and Love is the binding factor that holds the family together. Today we live in a society where many families are in destruction. Increasing rate of divorce, homosexuality, legalization of gay marriage, living together culture, increasing number of youth who are not willing to get married etc. are some of the dangerous challenges that we need to face. Let us pray to God for a healthy family life and a blessed generation.
Our Annual Parish Convention is from October 12 - 14, 2018. It is the time to study the Bible and to renew our lives. Please make plans to attend and be blessed.
May God bless and Guide us to become God’s Co-Workers in his vineyard.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - September 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
We are entering into a new month, September. Last month we had to witness many uncomfortable situations. Kerala State had to face the biggest flood in her history. All districts of the state was declared red alert. Many of our dear ones had to suffer the bitterness of the flood. Now they are facing its after effects. Let us join our hands to help our brothers and sisters. I thank all the members who had taken time to be a part of the 12 hours Chain Prayer. It is our Christian duty to be in the side of the needy and share our resources to them. I appreciate all who had contributed generously for the Kerala Flood Relief and request your continuing prayers and support.
The first Monday in September is observed as ‘The Labor Day’ in USA and Canada.The nation gives tribute to the contributions ( Economic and Social achievements) of workers who have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the country. Let us pray for all who toil hard to make both ends meet.
Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sangam was formed in 1919 to enable the women of the Church to participate in Christian mission. This is the centenary year of the organization. The Centenary theme is “Women: Lighted to Lighten the World.” Women are mothers who nurture the generations. They can nurture them in faith and human values. We are celebrating Sevika Sanghom Day on September 02. Let us pray for the organization, its activities and all its members.
Senior Citizens Day is on September 16. The elderly group is a group of rich experiences. These experience has to be poured out to the growing generations. Old age is a time of diseases, loneliness and alienation. They need care, love, support and respect from others. Let us thank God for our elders, their remarkable works, their vision and pray for their wellbeing.
Our Sunday School will be reopening on September 09. A dedication prayer will be held during the Holy Qurbana. I request all the parents to bring their children to the dedication service and to make them attend Sunday School regularly.
May the God Almighty help us to use God given gifts and talents for His glory and for the betterment of the humanity and the whole creation.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - August 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
August is the month of reopening. Our children are preparing themselves for a new academic year. Let us uphold them in our prayers.
We were able to be in this western part of the United States, as a worshiping community for the past 42 years. Let us thank God for His providence and care that we had received during these years. Church is a faith community. It becomes meaningful through the relationship between its members. This relationship and zeal for the community, paved way for the formation of Mar Thoma Church in LA area. We are celebrating our Parish Day on August 12. Our former Vicar Rev. Dr. K. V Simon will be the guest for the day. I request the participation of all the members of the church for the Parish day programs.
On August 15, India is celebrating her 71st Independence Day. Independence is gained by the collective effort of the citizens for their mother land. Let us thank and pray for the courageous freedom fighters and for the country.
Last month we had our Diocesan Family Conference at Houston, Western Region Youth Conference at Phoenix. I appreciate all the members who had participated in the programs.
This month we are having our Family Retreat at Pine Valley Bible Convention Center. Let us pray that the retreat be encouraging and help us to have a new vision of life. First Fruit Collection and Auction is scheduled on all Sundays of this month. I request every family to take part in the collection and auction. Let our motto be ‘Bring and Take’. We are planning to have Traditional Kerala Sadhya on August 25th. I urge your support and prayers for the event.
I pray that all the events and programmes help us to have a strong mental and spiritual life.
Yours in Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - July 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
We are entering into the second half of the year. Let us thank God for the blessing that we had received during these days.
For United States of America, the month of July is very important. The independence day falls on the 4th of this month. Independence Day is a time of family celebrations with picnics and barbecues, showing a great deal of emphasis on the American tradition of political freedom. It is the anniversary of the publication of the declaration of independence from Great Britain in 1776. Above all, people in the United States express and give thanks for the freedom and liberties fought by the first generation of many of today's Americans. Let us continue to pray for the nation.
According to Church Lectionary, The theme for July 17 is People of God. We are called as a community to serve God and our fellow beings. But to be true God’s People, We should look into ourselves and need to renew them ...
Fellowship - With God and with fellow being
Acceptance - Ready to hear
Sharing - Ready to give
Deeds - What comes from us
In the month of June we had our VBS. I appreciate the conveners, Sunday school teachers, volunteers, and parents who made this year’s VBS a blessing. Our Annual Retreat is scheduled on Aug 3, 4, & 5 at Pine Valley Bible Convention Centre, San Diego. Let us make this time for introspection and renewal. I request all of you to partici-pate and pray for the same.
May God help us to worship our God in truth and in spirit.
God bless us all...
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - June 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ
The month of June marks the beginning of summer vacations. It is the time to thank and praise God for the manifold blessings towards us. I would like to congratulate all our young friends who successfully completed their studies and had graduated.
June 5 is celebrated as World Environment Day. This day reminds that we are only stewards and has to control our greed in exploiting the environment. We need to take bold and wise steps for a better life tomorrow - consider not only our well being but also our environment.
Our nation is celebrating Father’s day on June 17. It is a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Its origins may lie in a memorial service held for a large group of men, many of them fathers, who were killed in a mining accident in Monongah, West Virginia in 1907. As the celebration recognizes the contribution of fathers and father figures make for their children's lives. It is very important that fathers should take active role in communicating Faith in Christ to next generation.
Our VBS is scheduled on June 15, 16 & 17 and the final day will be on 24 Sunday. Encourage your children to attend the VBS. Western Region Youth Conference is Scheduled on July 20,21,22 at Franciscan Renewal Centre, Scottsdale, AZ. Phoenix Mar Thoma Youth Fellowship will be the host of the conference. I request our youngsters to take part in the conference. Our Parish retreat is scheduled on Aug 3, 4, & 5 at Pine Valley Bible Convention Centre, San Diego. Kindly uphold in your prayers and register your name as early as possible.
Let the celebrations and the programmes may enrich us and help us to be a renewed community. Let us work together for the expansion of His Kingdom.
May God bless us all.
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - May 2018
Dearly beloved in Christ
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The Month of April has passed. We had witnessed happy and sad moments in our life.
As a church, It is with much grief that we are accepting the demise of Rt. Rev. Geevarghese Mar Athanasius Suffragan Metropolitan.
Thirumeni was serving as the Diocesan Bishop of Ranni - Nilackal Diocese. His deep thoughts and reflections on Word of God with soul stirring oration is commendable. Thirumeni was keen in keeping relationships and was an instrument for many projects for theupliftment of the poor and needy. Let’s praise God for themeaningful life of Thirumeni.
Our Valiya Metropolitan Padma Bhushan His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom has entered into 101st birth year. Thirumeni is known for his humor and its way of presentation. His Life, Philosophy, Theology, and contributions to the church is well known. Let us uphold Thirumeni in our prayers.
Our Metropolitan, His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma had entered into the 60th year of priestly Ordination. His administrative skills and systematic way of executing the ideas are always appreciated. Let us thank God for our Metropolitan and pray for abundant blessings, to lead the church, upon him.
Mothers Day and Memorial Day falls on the month of May. Mother's Day is a celebration - honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. Memorial Day is observed to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Both celebrations are the time to show our thanks and remember the hard times that they had to face to make us safe. The Bible alwaysreminds us to remember the past. Pslams 103:2 says “Blessthe Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits...” Let us passthis great tradition and love to the coming generation.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to all, for your prayer and support, as I complete one year in Los Angeles. We thank God for His guidance and blessings throughout the year. I request your continued prayers and support for the upliftment of our church and for the glorification of His kingdom.
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - April 2018
Dearly beloved in Christ
Greetings to you in the most precious name of our resurrected Lord Jesus Christ.
During the month of March we had the Lent season and on the first day of this month we celebrate the resurrection of our savior. Through our discipline, worship and devotion during the Lenten days, we were able to renew and humble ourselves before our Lord.
‘He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay’ (Mat.28:6). The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of Christian Faith. Resurrection reminds us that
Light has conquered the darkness. (Victory)
Light has to be spread to the world. (Witness)
The empty tomb demands us to be witness to the world rather than making it a celebration alone.
Now we had entered into the spring season. It is the time of blooming flowers, planting new vegetation etc. It is the season of New life… Let us also join together with the nature and have a new and enlightened life.
The Annual general body meeting of our church is scheduled on April 8th Sunday after the Holy Qurbana. I would like to thank and appreciate all the office bearers for the year 2017 for their effort and time that they had spend for the church. And I wish all the best for the new office bearers for the year 2018.
I pray that let the risen Christ live in us and make our life a blessing to the World.
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - March 2018
Dearly beloved in Christ
We are in the midst of the Lent season. A ‘time’ to look upon ourselves and to say ‘no’ and ‘yes’ to certain things. Many a time, Lent is considered as ‘denial’ alone. But it is also a time to ‘inherit’ and ‘practice’ good in our life. We need to find more time for prayer, devotion and fasting. Let us set apart our tithe and open our hands to the needy.
Cross, in early time, was considered as the ultimate end of everything. But Jesus had made it a symbol of Love, which is sacrificial redeeming & self-less. It is also seen as the symbol of abundant life. By exploring, the cross, and its meaning will helps us to have a devoted and blessed life ahead. For that we need to practice
To Give : Change from receiving to giving
To Forgive : Change from Punishing to Forgiving
Be Humble : Change from pride to humble
On March 4th, we will be celebrating our Dioce-san Day. This is a time for us to thank God for the growth of the diocese and also submit ourselves to work along with the diocese for the extension of the Kingdom in the world.
On March 18th, Our Diocesan Episcopa Rt. Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos will be visiting us. We are planning to have the First communion service during the visit. I request, prayerful participation of all the members.
I pray that, this lent season and its observance be a time to re-dedicate ourselves before our Lord.
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
We are in the midst of the Lent season. A ‘time’ to look upon ourselves and to say ‘no’ and ‘yes’ to certain things. Many a time, Lent is considered as ‘denial’ alone. But it is also a time to ‘inherit’ and ‘practice’ good in our life. We need to find more time for prayer, devotion and fasting. Let us set apart our tithe and open our hands to the needy.
Cross, in early time, was considered as the ultimate end of everything. But Jesus had made it a symbol of Love, which is sacrificial redeeming & self-less. It is also seen as the symbol of abundant life. By exploring, the cross, and its meaning will helps us to have a devoted and blessed life ahead. For that we need to practice
To Give : Change from receiving to giving
To Forgive : Change from Punishing to Forgiving
Be Humble : Change from pride to humble
On March 4th, we will be celebrating our Dioce-san Day. This is a time for us to thank God for the growth of the diocese and also submit ourselves to work along with the diocese for the extension of the Kingdom in the world.
On March 18th, Our Diocesan Episcopa Rt. Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos will be visiting us. We are planning to have the First communion service during the visit. I request, prayerful participation of all the members.
I pray that, this lent season and its observance be a time to re-dedicate ourselves before our Lord.
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - February 2018
Greetings to you in the matchless name of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
God has enabled us to complete one month in this new year through His abundant grace. Let us give thanks for His mercy and love towards us.
One of the Asia’s largest Spiritual gathering, 123rd Maramon Convention begins from February 11th and ends on 18th . Let us uphold in our prayers that this convention be a blessing to all.
We are entering into another phase of our Pilgrimage, The Great Lent (February 11 - April 01). Lent Season is the time of repentance and renewal. Fasting, Praying, and Giving are the traditional practices of Lent.
Fasting - To control our self
Praying - To hold on God
Giving - To be for others
Meditating upon the Word of God is unavoidable. Let us prepare ourselves to hear from God and try to make change in our lifestyle and attitude. We need to develop greater Spiritual discipline. We should learn to say ‘no’ to our pleasures and happiness. Let us remember our fellow beings that are in poverty and need. And also the mission works that are undertaken by the Church. Let us stretch our hands and support them. By this, our observance of Lent be fruitful.
I wish that this lent season be a time of blessing to us and be a source of caring and supporting each other. Let Our Lord bless and strengthen us for this endeavour...
With prayerful regards
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - January 2018
Dearly Beloved in Christ,
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We are entering into a new year 2018. The year 2017 became a part of history. Let us thank God for giving all the possibilities & experiences of 2017. God has enabled us to live one more year. His protection, providence and Grace was showered upon us. Our sins and shortcomings were not counted. Let us welcome the New Year with new hope. We don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow. We are not sure about the path we have to walk. But one thing we are sure is that God, the Lord of history knows everything and we are in the mighty hands of our Lord. As we stand at the threshold of each New Year and look back over the way we have come, we see our record of imperfect endeavors, and shortcomings and sins. But we also see a future bright with promise, like a bud of a rose that has not yet unfolded its petals.
Let us pray together with David,
‘Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long’. [ Psalm 25: 4-5]
I thank all the parish members for their participation and involvement in the Christmas House to House carol singing and Loud applause to all those who labored hard to make the Christmas carol service at Church a blessing. It was a well organized and harmonious programme. I pray that, let these programme help each one of us to serve the parish and grow spiritually. I also take the opportunity to thank all the mem-bers who had attended watch night Holy Communion. Many of you shared your testimonies which was inspiring and chal-lenging in our faith journey. May God bless you all.
In this New Year it is my hope and prayer that each and every member of our ‘Church Family’ may experience the challenge to Think, Speak & Act on everything that is pleasing to God
Wish you all a Happy & Prosperous New Year.
With prayerful regards,
Liju Achen
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We are entering into a new year 2018. The year 2017 became a part of history. Let us thank God for giving all the possibilities & experiences of 2017. God has enabled us to live one more year. His protection, providence and Grace was showered upon us. Our sins and shortcomings were not counted. Let us welcome the New Year with new hope. We don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow. We are not sure about the path we have to walk. But one thing we are sure is that God, the Lord of history knows everything and we are in the mighty hands of our Lord. As we stand at the threshold of each New Year and look back over the way we have come, we see our record of imperfect endeavors, and shortcomings and sins. But we also see a future bright with promise, like a bud of a rose that has not yet unfolded its petals.
Let us pray together with David,
‘Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long’. [ Psalm 25: 4-5]
I thank all the parish members for their participation and involvement in the Christmas House to House carol singing and Loud applause to all those who labored hard to make the Christmas carol service at Church a blessing. It was a well organized and harmonious programme. I pray that, let these programme help each one of us to serve the parish and grow spiritually. I also take the opportunity to thank all the mem-bers who had attended watch night Holy Communion. Many of you shared your testimonies which was inspiring and chal-lenging in our faith journey. May God bless you all.
In this New Year it is my hope and prayer that each and every member of our ‘Church Family’ may experience the challenge to Think, Speak & Act on everything that is pleasing to God
Wish you all a Happy & Prosperous New Year.
With prayerful regards,
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - December 2017
Dearly Beloved in Christ,
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
During the month of November we had remarkable events in the Church. The Fall Festival, Bible Character Dress up competition, World Sunday School Day, One day retreat of Sevika Sanghom and election of new office bearers for the church for the year 2018. I must thank every one for your co-operation and wholehearted support.
We are now entering into the celebrative mood of Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ proclaims the fundamental truth that ‘nothing is impossible for God.’ Christmas is a season of great joy for all of us. The Christmas event invites us to hear the heartbeats of God in the world. We need to open our eyes to see the new born king in our midst. As we prepare ourselves for the Christmas celebration, let us keep in mind the following thoughts
- Live like Christ, not as a propagating Christian but as a practicing Christian.
- Join our hands to transform both the Church and society.
- Listen to the feeble voices arising from streets and corners of the society.
- Teach our generation - love and action of Christ through the word of God and church practices.
We are planning to have Christmas Carol Service on Dec.23, Saturday at Church. On Dec 02, 09 & 16 we would like to visit our homes with Christmas message. It is my request to all our families to receive the message of Joy and hope of Christmas by admitting and encouraging the carol group in our houses. Christmas is the message of God’s love for human kind and the need of love for each other. As we are celebrating the Christmas, it is our responsibility to be the agents of love and reconciliation. May each and every aspect of this Christmas be powerful signals to move in the proper direction towards the ultimate target of completing God's will in our lives.
We are bidding farewell to one more year of our life. This is the time of self evaluation. Looking back, can we say that we were faithful in our life such as time, money, opportunities, skill and talents? Let us give thanks to God for all the provisions and providence we had received all through this year. Let us genuinely confess all our short comings and pray so that we canlead a more authentic and powerful christen life.
Wishing you all a Blessed & Meaningful Christmas.
With prayerful regards,
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - November 2017
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Let us thank God for His countless blessings and guidance that we have been experiencing the last 10 months of the financial year 2017.
November is a month of thanksgiving. It refers to the guidance and blessing of God in the hard times of the early English settlers (pilgrims) in this country. In the midst of horror voyage, fierce winter and the death of their fellow companions, the pilgrims did not lose hope or their steadfast faith in God. In the fall of 1621 they first celebrated thanksgiving at Plymouth. As the nation celebrate thanksgiving on November 23, Thursday, let us join with our fellow Americans to praise and thank God for his manifold blessings showered upon us as an immigrant community and as a church. Our Diocese celebrates the Diaspora Sunday (Sunday before Thanksgiving Day) to remember our past and to thank God for preserving and prospering us in this nation. It also reminds us to pass it on to our next generation.
This month our Sunday School is Celebrating Fall Fest and World Sunday School Day. Our Sunday school is participating in the Diocesan level Kid’s helping kid’s mission project. I appreciate all the teachers, students, and parents in supporting all the functions of our Sunday school. Please uphold our Sunday School teachers and students in your prayer. Our Sevika Sangham is planning to conduct a one day retreat on November 18 at church. I request all our Sevika Sanghom members to take part in the retreat.
We are coming closer to the end of the financial year. Please remember to pay your subscriptions and other contributions which are in due.
The parish and its organizations are having General Body meetings to elect the Office Bearers to shoulder the responsibility for the year 2018. May God guide us to elect appropriate people who are faithful to Christ and loyal to Church.
Let us acknowledge God’s presence and providence we experienced throughout the faith Journey, which are beyond our measure. May the compassionate God be with us and bless us in our day to day life.
With prayerful regards,
Liju Achen
Let us thank God for His countless blessings and guidance that we have been experiencing the last 10 months of the financial year 2017.
November is a month of thanksgiving. It refers to the guidance and blessing of God in the hard times of the early English settlers (pilgrims) in this country. In the midst of horror voyage, fierce winter and the death of their fellow companions, the pilgrims did not lose hope or their steadfast faith in God. In the fall of 1621 they first celebrated thanksgiving at Plymouth. As the nation celebrate thanksgiving on November 23, Thursday, let us join with our fellow Americans to praise and thank God for his manifold blessings showered upon us as an immigrant community and as a church. Our Diocese celebrates the Diaspora Sunday (Sunday before Thanksgiving Day) to remember our past and to thank God for preserving and prospering us in this nation. It also reminds us to pass it on to our next generation.
This month our Sunday School is Celebrating Fall Fest and World Sunday School Day. Our Sunday school is participating in the Diocesan level Kid’s helping kid’s mission project. I appreciate all the teachers, students, and parents in supporting all the functions of our Sunday school. Please uphold our Sunday School teachers and students in your prayer. Our Sevika Sangham is planning to conduct a one day retreat on November 18 at church. I request all our Sevika Sanghom members to take part in the retreat.
We are coming closer to the end of the financial year. Please remember to pay your subscriptions and other contributions which are in due.
The parish and its organizations are having General Body meetings to elect the Office Bearers to shoulder the responsibility for the year 2018. May God guide us to elect appropriate people who are faithful to Christ and loyal to Church.
Let us acknowledge God’s presence and providence we experienced throughout the faith Journey, which are beyond our measure. May the compassionate God be with us and bless us in our day to day life.
With prayerful regards,
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - September 2017
Dear Brothers and Sisters
Warmest greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
After the long vacations , the schools have reopened and our children are back to their classes. We send our children to school with lots of dreams. I pray and wish all our children success in this new academic year. A special prayer for our children is scheduled on Sunady, September 3rd. I urge all our parents to send their children for this prayer.
Education is not only for imparting some knowledge, but also for bringing a person out into the world as a good citizen .It is to impart good qualities in human beings. Learning is not the collection of some information. But also a great treasure of love and care of the family and the society. As we tell our children about the situation that our parents suffered even to have basic education, It helps them to think how God has guided them all through out their life. This gives a new vision to the children that life is worth living, when held firmly with the Lord. Here comes the need of Sunday School.
Our Sunday School will being on Sunday, Sept 3rd. Parents should take extra care and effort to send their children regularly to Sunday School classes. It is sad that we are not giving importance for the Sunday School. We need to give equal importance to the Sunday School as we give to their secular school/college and extra curricular activities. The Bible says that, ”The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”(Prov:1:7) Our children should be encouraged to search for the true wisdom, that is found in following the footsteps of the Lord. That is the true purpose of education.
We are planning to have a picnic on Saturday, Sept 23 at Yorba Linda Park. Picnic is the time to interact and share more closely.
Our Church Family Retreat this year is conducted together with St Andrews MTC. The theme of the retreat is ‘Family - Gods Idea’.Vicar of the Horeb Mar Thoma Church, Rev. Binu P Thomas will be the guest speaker. All our members are invited to participate in the conference.
Malayalies all over the world are celebrating the festival of ONAM in the month of September. It is a great memory of love and prosperity and equality. This is the time to recall ourselves about the rich cultural heritage we have as malayalies. We are planning to conduct a Traditional Kerala Sadhya on Saturday, Sept 9th under the coordination of Young Family Fellowship. I request all our members to take part in this joyous moment.
I pray that all these programs and events be a source to bring all the parish members in one chain and become more closer to each other in love and faith. We have to work together to maintain the unity and love among us.
Yours In Christ
Liju Achen
Vicar's Message for the Month - October 2017
Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We have come to the last quarter of this year. Let us thank God for His manifold blessings and Guidance that we had experienced during the past.
Last month we had many programmes of the church and its organisations. I thank all the members for their active participation and support.
This month too we are having various programmes, both at the parish level and also under the auspices of our parish organizations. Voluntary Evangelistic Association Day, Youth Sunday and Family Sunday falls in this month. We are planning to have our parish convention on October 19-22. Dr. George Varghese (Tiruvalla) will be the main speaker. I request all of you to pray and prepare for this blessed occasion to hear the word of God and to experience a renewal in our family life and parish life.
As the church we are celebrating Family dedication Sunday on October 22. Family is the prime unit of any community. The togetherness and nurture of this unit is a serious matter. Conscious effort should be taken to eliminate anything that create disturbance for its unity and harmony. One of the greatest blessings we can receive in this life is the love of a family, and the bonds that exist between its members. A family in order to be blessed should be God Centered. The love, care and security that we experience in the family life is transmitted to the generations. Our families should reflect God’s unconditional love to its surroundings. I pray that the celebration of Family Sunday strengthen our families and also the Church …the family of families.
Let us continue our journey with Christ, to transform the world. As we move on, I seek your wholehearted co-operation and support to-wards our parish and its activities. May the crucified and the resurrected Lord be with us in our daily life, in our ministry and in all walks of life…
Yours In Christ
Liju Achen