December 9th, 2009

By God’s Grace, in 2009, Rt. Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Theodosius completed 20 years of service to our Lord in the Mar Thoma Church as Bishop.  On December 9th, 2009 commemorative events culminated with special programs at the Diocesan Center in Merrick, NY.

The program began at 7am with the celebration of the Holy Communion lead by the Bishop.  Achens from the region traveled from near and far to partake of this special mid-week service.

There were a handful of brothers and sisters from the local parishes in attendance as well on this working day.

Thirumeni gave a brief message for meditation on the difference between the spiritual life and the natural life, the former requiring necessary sacrifice.

Immediately following the service, everyone took part in breakfast.

The clergy in attendance assembled for a clergy conference in the main conference room of the Diocesan Center in the daytime.  Matters pertaining to the needs of the parishes of the Diocese were discussed.  Thirumeni helped provide leadership and insight for the various issues after which lunch and fellowship followed.

In the evening, many members of the Mar Thoma Church in the region gathered at the Center for the evening program in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Thirumeni’s consecration.  Rev. Dr. Philip Varghese gave the devotional  talk as Mr. Ashley George, Rev. Jose Abraham, and Mr. Gigi Tom gave felicitations highlighting their experiences serving with Thirumeni.   Mr. Varghese P. Varghese gave the vote of thanks.

A cake was presented for the auspicious occasion to Thirumeni as he left an indelible mark on all gathered with his closing remarks.  Thirumeni emphasized the need to invest in people, not buildings or earthly treasures for the extension of God’s Kingdom.

Rev. M.C. Skariah prayed after which Thirumeni gave the benediction.

May God continue to bless and fulfill His will in the life of our Bishop, Mar Theodosius.