God’s ways are quite mysterious and unknown to man. The beginning and growth of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Begur is a fine example of His abundant grace and His beautiful plans for the people who love and worship Him. This is our humble Endeavour to document the history of our church.

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From the year 2001 onwards Hongasandra area in Bangalore started to become a favorite place of residence, especially for people from Kerala. By 2003 there were more than 35 Orthodox families residing in this locality. Since there were no nearby centers of worship for the Orthodox faith, many families started attending service in churches and prayer halls of other faiths to fulfill their spiritual requirements. Many of the families who had settled in Hongasandra, were members of St. Gregorios Cathedral, which was the Orthodox Church closest to them. There was a humble but fervent wish to have a church so as to attend Holy Qurbana in this area and so there was a continuous search for a suitable place.

Also, since Hongasandra at that time was part of Madivala ward, one of 12 wards of St. Gregorios Orthodox Cathedral, it was not possible to have regular monthly prayer meetings.

In 2003, after conclusion of the Madivala ward prayer meeting that was held at the residence of Mr. Samuel Mathew which was led by Rev. Fr. P. P. Jacob, Vicar of St. Gregorios Orthodox ,it was decided to start a separate prayer group in Hongasandra, to cater to the spiritual needs of orthodox families in the area. It was however evident that such a prayer group would not get the services of the Vicar.

All the families who were present were very enthusiastic and felt that it was a good idea. They decided to get the approval of the vicar for starting the Prayer Group. The heads of families present in the meeting were the following:

Samuel Mathew, P. K Joseph, Samuel P Varghese, Peter Sam, K.P. Mathen, Saju M Varghese, C.G. Rajan and K. Thankachan

The families approached the Vicar in this regard and obtained the necessary permission to start a prayer group in Hongasandra and to conduct weekly prayer meetings every Saturday subject to certain conditions. The Vicar also made it clear that he would not be able to attend the weekly prayer meetings.

Accordingly the Hongasandra Prayer Group came into existence and started conducting weekly prayer meetings in the residences of the members. A committee for conducting the meetings was selected as under:

Mr. C.G. Rajan (President), Mr. Saju M Varghese (Secretary) and Mr. Peter Sam (Treasurer)

The families who were regular in attending the meetings were 1.Samuel Mathew, 2. P.K. Kochukunjan 3. Thomas Tharakan 4. P. K Joseph 5. Peter Sam, 6. P.K. Mathew, 7. Samuel P Varghese, 8. John P David, 9. K.P. Mathen, 10. Saju M Varghese, 11. C.G. Rajan, 12. K. Thankachan, 13. Baby John and 14. Biju

During these meetings, songs, prayer, Bible reading and discussions on selected subjects were conducted. The group was also fortunate to have the services of guest speakers on certain occasions. The group was very active in doing charity work given their limitations and in helping the members of the prayer group in times of need. Various celebrations were initiated like Christmas, Onam etc. with cultural programs and love feast with food items brought from the houses of all the members. Christmas Carols were also organised every year and all the member families’ homes were visited.

After the success of the prayer group, the members became more enthusiastic about starting a chapel under the cathedral for conducting Holy Qurbana, at least once in a month in this area so that the orthodox families in the area attending the services of other faiths, could also be brought back. Search was conducted in areas adjacent to Hongasandra for purchasing a suitable plot of land for starting the chapel. The General Body of the Cathedral also gave its consent for this step. But by this time, the land cost in the area had tremendously increased and all the efforts for purchasing a plot got delayed due to the prohibitively high cost of land.

The next major milestone towards the beginning of the church occurred in July 2005. At the time of the Ward prayer meeting held at the residence of Mr. C.G. Rajan, after Rev Fr T.K. Thomas took over as the Vicar of St. Gregorios Cathedral, the matter regarding starting Holy Qurbana in Hongasandra was discussed in detail and Rev Fr. T. K Thomas encouraged the idea. The prayer group was instructed by the Vicar to search for a suitable place for conducting Holy Qurbana. Accordingly, some of the Prayer Group members approached the then Vicar and Managing committee of Holy Family church, Hongasandra. The Vicar Fr. Cherian Thunduparampil and the Trustee Mr. Mathew Mampra were very co- operative to the idea and agreed to allow us to celebrate Holy Qurbana in the Parish Hall of Holy Family Church, once in a month, on Saturdays. After fulfilling the necessary formalities such as giving an official request by the Vicar of the St. Gregorios Cathedral to the Vicar of Holy Family Church, obtaining formal approval from the General Body of the Cathedral and after getting approval from the Diocesan Metropolitan H.G. Yacoob Mar Ireneos, it was decided to celebrate Holy Qurbana on 8^th October 2005.

Accordingly the first Holy Qurbana was celebrated on 8^th October 2005, by Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas in the Parish Hall of Holy Family church which was attended by V. Rev. C.M. Philipose Cor– episcopa, Rev. Fr. P.C. Philip, Rev Fr. John Peter, Fr. Cherian Thunduparampil and a large crowd of believers. The 2^nd Holy Qurbana was celebrated by V. Rev. Yuhanon Ramban on 5^th Nov. 2005 and the 3^rd by Rev. Fr. John Peter on 3^rd December. In March 2006, Hongasandra was made a separate ward of the Cathedral. Mr. Peter Sam was elected as the ward member.

Since Saturday was a working day for most of the members attending the Holy Qurbana, the Prayer Group tried to locate a place where it was possible to celebrate Holy Qurbana on Sundays. Some of the members approached Br. Xavier Alex, the Provincial of St. Francis ICSE School. Br. Xavier was very co- operative and in consultation with the Principal of the School, agreed to allow the group to celebrate Holy Qurbana in a convenient class room on Sundays. So Holy Qurbana was celebrated by Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas in St. Francis School for the first time on 1^st January 2006 at 6 PM.

Diocesan Metropolitan H.G. Yacoob Mar Ireneos entrusted V. Rev. Yuhanon Ramban (presently H.G. Dr. Joshua Mar Nicodimos, Metropolitan of Nilakal Diocese) with the responsibility of celebrating Holy Qurbana, in the new premises, twice a month. Rambachan very religiously followed the instructions of the Metropolitan and celebrated Holy Qurbana on the first and third Sunday of every month in consultation with the Vicar Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas. Whenever he had to go out of station, he was very particular to arrange another priest to celebrate Holy Qurbana on scheduled days without fail. He also started spiritual organizations like Marthmariam Samajam, and Sunday school. Mrs. Leela Joseph was the Treasurer and Mrs. Molykutty Samuel was the Secretary for Marthamariam Samajam. Mr. Santhosh Varghese was the Head Master for Sunday school. Rambachan was very closely monitoring the activities of these organizations. Mrs. Ponnamma Rajan, Mrs. Annie Samuel, Mrs. Rosamma Raju and Mrs. Mariamma Mathen also served as the office bearers of Marthamariam Samajam of the chapel in subsequent years. Prayer meetings of Marthmariam Samajam were held in the residences of the members on every first Wednesday of the month. Sunday School was held after the Holy Qurbana.

The sacrifices made by the members for celebrating the Holy Qurbana on the scheduled days were commendable. The class room allotted for conducting Holy Qurbana, had to be cleaned and the temporary altar had to be set up on the previous Saturday evening so that Holy Qurbana could be conducted on Sunday. Most of the members were very enthusiastic in making these arrangements. Apart from this, the priest had to be brought from Cathedral or other places and Qurbana Appam had to be collected from cathedral. The church members acknowledge the services of all those who carried out these activities. We also acknowledge the help of Mr. Thomas Thomas, Sexton of the Cathedral and Mr. T.V. Varghese Accountant, Mr. V. T. Varghese and Mr. Biju Philip of the Cathedral and Mr. Rojan Philip for all the help extended to the chapel during this period.

After Rambachan completed his MDH course in March, 2007, Rev. Fr, M.M. Abraham was requested to help us in conducting Holy Qurbana. We gratefully remember the services of Rev. Fr. M.M. Abraham, Rev. Fr. Shaiju, Rev Fr. John Peter and Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy, who celebrated Holy Qurbana on several occasions to ensure that there was no interruption in celebrating Holy Qurbana on the scheduled days. The cooperation extended to the Chapel by the authorities of St. Francis ICSE School, especially by Br. Xavier Alex and Br. George Provincials and Br. Charles, Principal by allowing us to celebrate Holy Qurbana, for a long period of 3 1/2 years without collecting any rent, is praiseworthy. The offertory collected during Holy Qurbana was remitted to the Cathedral and the honorarium for the priests celebrating Holy Qurbana, was paid by the Cathedral. This continued till July 2009.

In the mean time, the General Body of St. Gregorios Cathedral felt that it was necessary to purchase a suitable land for having our own Chapel. A lot of search and negotiations were conducted to finalize a suitable site for the chapel. The hard work done and cooperation extended by the Vicar Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas, Treasurer Mr. Mathew Chandy ( Late) , the Secretary Mr. Thomas David and the Managing Committee of the Cathedral, in searching and finalizing a suitable place, is very praiseworthy and will be remembered with gratitude by the St. Mary’s Church members, forever.

In 2006, M/s. Carmel Projects Private Limited was planning to develop a layout in S. Bingipura area and was negotiating for purchasing land for this purpose. Prof. Thomas Tharakan who was a Director of M/s. Carmel Projects Private Limited, after consulting with his co – directors, agreed to give a portion of the land required by us for the chapel at the same negotiated purchase price of the land for the layout. This proposal was placed in the General body of the Cathedral and the General body agreed to the purchase of 17000 sq. ft of land near the Main Road for a total consideration of Rs. 26.5 Lakhs. Accordingly a plot measuring 17000 sq.ft was purchased for a chapel by the cathedral on 31-1-2007 directly from the owner of the land. Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas, Vicar and Late Mr. Mathew Chandy, Treasurer of the Cathedral signed the Purchase Documents on behalf of the Catholicate of the East and Malankara Metropolitan H.H. Mar Baselios Marthoma Didimos. M/s. Carmel Projects Private Limited constructed the compound wall for the plot purchased, free of cost. We gratefully acknowledge the help and co operation extended by the Directors of M/s. Carmel Projects Private Limited viz. Mr. Mathew Mampra, Mr. Thomas Kalari, Mr. Cherian Mampra and Prof. Thomas Tharakan

Immediately after the purchase of the land, the General body of the Cathedral felt that a chapel should be constructed in the plot so that Holy Qurbana of Begur chapel could be celebrated in its own premises. The foundation stone for the chapel was blessed by H.G.Yakoob Mar Ireneos on 25^th Feb. 2007.

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M/s. Montimers were appointed as the consultants and architects and Mr. G. Joy was nominated as the Technical Advisor. A building committee to look after the construction of the chapel, was constituted as under

1. Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas, (President), 2. Rev.Fr. Varghese P Idichandy (Vice President),

3. Mr. Samuel P Varghese (Convener), 4. Mr. Mathew Chandy (Treasurer-Cathedral Church during 2006-07 and 2007-08), 5. Mr. Thomas John (Treasurer-Cathedral Church during 2008-09 and 2009-10), 6. Mr. Thomas David (Secretary, Cathedral Church during 2006-07 and 2007-08), 7. Mr. V.T. Thomas (Secretary, Cathedral Church during 2008-09) 8. Mr. K.M. Peter (Secretary, Cathedral Church during 2009-10), 9. John P David (Hongasandra Ward Member during 2007-08) 10. Mr. P.K.Mathew (Hongasandra Ward Member during 2008-09 and 2009-10) 11. Mr. P.K. Joseph, 12. Mr. Peter Sam 13. Advocate P.C. Georgekutty, 14. Prof. Thomas Tharakan, 15. Advocate Mr. P.M. Mathew, 16. Mr. V.T. Varghese 17. Mr. C. B. Biju, 18. Mr. P.M. Johnson, 19. Mr. G. Joy (Technical Adviser)

The construction of the chapel was entrusted to M/s. Kalathil Constructions under the supervision of the Architects M/s. Montimers and technical expert Mr. G. Joy. The foundation stone was laid by Rev.Fr. T.K. Thomas on 15^th May 2008. The Truss work was entrusted to Mr. Johny, and the Electrical works were entrusted to Mr. Shibu. The Construction of the chapel progressed under the supervision of the consultants and the Technical expert as per the guidelines decided by the Chapel Building committee. The Committee met 13 times during its tenure to review the construction and to brief the General Body from time to time. It was really a set back to the construction of the chapel when the main supporter and well wisher of the Chapel Mr. Mathew Chandy was unexpectedly called to his eternal home, in June 2008.

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During April 2009, Bangalore Diocese was formed and was placed under direct supervision of Catholicate of the East and Malankara Metropolitan H.H. Mar Baselios Marthoma Didimos. H.G Abraham Mar Ephiphanios, Metropolitan of Sultanbatheri Diocese was given additional charge of Bangalore Diocese as Assistant Metropolitan.

The Construction of the chapel was completed in July 2009. The Metropolitan decided to make the newly built chapel an independent church and an independent Parish. The Blessing of the church was conducted on 7^th and 8^th August 2009 in a grand scale. H.G. Dr. Abraham Mar Ephiphanios led the blessing Services. Very Rev. Yuhanon Ramban, very Rev. Skaria Ramban and most of the priests in Bangalore Diocese attended the ceremony. All the materials required for celebrating Holy Qurbana, other furniture, fittings, microphone, bell, lamp , fans etc. were donated by the members of the chapel and other well wishers.

After the consecration ceremony and Holy Qurbana on 8^th, a public meeting was held which was presided over by H.G. Abraham Mar Epiphanies. Dignitaries like Rev. Fr. Dr. Thomas Chathamparambil (Vice Chancellor, Christ University, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560029), Rev. Fr. Joyce Elavathingal (Principal, Christ Academy ICSE School), Rev. Fr. Cherian Thunduparambil (Vicar Holy Family Church, Hongasandra) and Brother Charles (Principal, St.Francis ICSE School, Hongasandra) also attended the function.

The church members are ever grateful to the Managing committees of St. Gregorios Cathedral during the years, 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-10 especially Vicar V. Rev. T.K. Thomas Cor-episcopa, Treasurers Mr. Mathew Chandy (Late), Mr. Thomas John and Secretaries Mr. Thomas David, Mr. V.T. Thomas and Mr. K.M. Peter and all the Parish members of the Cathedral for all help, guidance and co-operation extended during purchase of the land for the chapel, construction and the initial period of the church. We are also grateful to all well wishers of the chapel who generously gave donations in cash and kind during the construction of the chapel and at the time of church blessing . The services rendered by Mr. P.K. Joseph as the Hon. Treasurer of the chapel from 2006 to 2009 are also commendable.

From 1-9-2009, the Church was made independent in the name of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Begur and Rev. Fr. P.C. Philip was appointed as its first Vicar. His vast experience in guiding newly established parishes in the past, helped us tremendously.

OPERATIONS IN 2009-10

Managing Committee

Rev. Fr. P.C. Philip (VICAR) , Mr. P.K.Joseph ( Treasurer), Prof. Thomas Tharakan (Secretary)

Managing Committee Members ;

1 Mr. Samuel P Varghese, 2. Mr. Santhosh Varghese 3. Mr. Saju M Varghese 4. Mr. John P David, 5. Mr. Shibu Mathew, 6. Mr. N.V. Yohannan , 7. Mr. P.K.Mathew ( Internal Auditor and Diocesan Member) 8. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates ( External Auditor)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Molykutty Samuel (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Leela Joseph (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Suraj Mathew (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Peter Sam (Secretary -OCYM), Mr. Shibu Mathew (Head Master -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

It was felt by the Vicar and the church members that it was necessary to purchase a suitable land for constructing a parsonage as early as possible and accordingly in the 2^nd General Body meeting of the church, held on 19-12-2009, it was decided to purchase the plot adjacent to the church measuring 1550 sq. ft at negotiated price. Accordingly the land was purchased on 26-3-2010 for a total cost of Rs. 11,85,500. The necessary funds were raised from the Parish members and our well wishers through the concerted efforts of the Vicar the Managing Committee and the church members.

From the beginning of the church, the spiritual organizations like Sunday School, Marthamariam Samajam and OCYM were started and were very active under the guidance of the Vicar.

It is a matter of great prestige and pride that Rev. Fr. T.K. Thomas who was associated with the church right from the initial days was elevated to the position of Cor-episcopa on 7-8-2009, the very same day on which the Blessing of our church also took place. Our first Vicar Rev. Fr. P.C. Philip was elevated to the position of Core-episcopa on 19-11-2009. It is also heartening and a matter of great pride that V. Rev. Yuhanon Ramban who was in charge of our chapel from 2005 to 2007, was selected as one of the seven new Metropolitans appointed on 17-2-2010. These are ample proof for the fact that Our Lord will bless abundantly all those who have sacrificed for this church and depended on the intercession of St. Mary.

The first harvest festival of the church was held on 7-2-2010 in which all the church members wholeheartedly participated and an amount of Rs. 1.75 Lakhs was generated. Regular Prayer meetings were conducted in the residences of members on first and third Sunday of every month. At the end of the financial year 2009-10, we had 42 church members.

Our Vicar Very Rev. P.C. Philip Cor-episcopa was transferred to our mother church St. Gregorios Orthodox Cathedral and Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy took over as the Vicar of our church with effect from 15-5-2010. We place on record our appreciation for the selfless service given to the Parish, by V. Rev. P.C. Philip Cor-episcopa, during the first few months of our operations. His Leadership qualities and vast experience had helped the infant parish in all its activities. The Parish gratefully acknowledges his services.

OPERATIONS IN 2010-11

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy(VICAR), Mr. P.K. Joseph (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. Samuel P Varghese, 2. Mr. Saju M Varghese, 3. Mr. Peter Sam, 4. Mr. N.V. Yohannan, 5. Mr. Mathew Chacko , 6. Mr. V. Thankachan, 7. Mr. Shibu Mathew, 8. Mr. P.K. Mathew (Internal Auditor & Diocesan Member), 9. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates ( External Auditor)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Leela Joseph (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Rosamma Raju (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Suraj Mathew (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Peter Sam (Secretary -OCYM), Mr. Shibu Mathew (Head Master -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

The Parish was extremely fortunate to have young and dynamic Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy as our Vicar and leader from 15-5-2010. Right from the beginning he started radiating confidence and optimism to everyone around him. He made very good rapport with each and every individual of the parish and succeeded in involving everyone in various activities of the Church. The new schemes introduced by him such as giving breakfast after the Holy Qurbana on Sundays, conducting meetings of all the spiritual organizations after the Holy Qurbana, , Parish Library, introducing church choir etc, were enthusiastically welcomed by all and are being continued even to this day. His other initiatives included distribution of plants for each family in the church at the time of Christmas, distribution of blankets for the poor who live in the streets in and around the city, food distribution for the poor, helping the homeless and needy people, collection and distribution of useful clothes and medicines for the poor, formation of a group of blood donors etc. He introduced Love feast and Common Prayer meeting on 5^th Sundays, in the church. Right from beginning his Endeavour had been to involve each and every family in the church activities, rather than increasing the number of the church members.

Some of the development activities undertaken during 2010-11 were as follows:

Kurishumthotti

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The Kurishumthotti was renovated and rededicated on 8-8-2010 by H. G. Alexios Mar Eusebius, Metropolitan, South West America Diocese. The church is indebted to Mr. Biju.T. Sam for giving necessary technical advice and for getting the same constructed most economically.

Gardening

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A beautiful garden around the church was designed and developed to improve the beauty of the Church and its premises. The Parish will be ever grateful to Mrs. Chechamma George and her family members for taking all the efforts for the same.

Laying Pavement Tiles

It was a long felt need to provide pavement tiles around the church to improve the cleanliness and to facilitate Rasa on special occasions in a better way. The parishioners generously contributed towards the fulfillment of this task.

A new choir was started in the church during December 2010 and our choir had been making significant contribution in leading our services, for all worship and sacramental services, prayer meetings, conventions and other related events and helping our entire congregation sing together as a big family. The choir met regularly for training under the efficient leadership of Fr. Varghese P. Idichandy.

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The second Harvest Festival, of the church was celebrated on October 24^th. H. G. Dr. Yakoob Mar Irenios, Metropolitan, Kochi Diocese, was the main celebrant and the guest of the day. All the parish members and friends of the parish wholeheartedly participated in the Harvest Festival by giving donations in Cash and in Kind and by actively participating in the auctions. We could generate approx. Rs.8 Lacs from the Harvest Festival.

For Convenience, the total Parish was divided into four wards namely Hongasandra, Devarachikkanahalli, Bannerghatta and Electronics City and prayer meetings were held on all Sundays in the wards on rotation basis. Christmas Carol was arranged in each ward and the residences of all church members were visited.

The first Perunal of our Church was celebrated on 15-8-2010 on a grand scale. The flag hoisting was done on 8-8-2010 by H. G. Alexios Mar Eusebius, Metropolitan, South West America Diocese who was the main celebrant of the day. Conventions were held on 12^th, 13^th and 14^th August. A traditional Rasa was held on 14^th evening from the church up to Christ Academy School and back. During the year the number of Parish members increased from 42 in the previous year to 70. Apart from the families who became members, a number of other families also started attending the Holy Qurbana .

20 members from our parish wrote MOMS examination held in October 2011, in Super Senior, Senior, and Junior levels and bagged prizes in all levels. Mrs. Chechamma George scored 85% and won third place in Super Senior level in Bangalore Diocese, Mrs. Joyce Tharakan scored 93% in senior level and achieved third place. Mrs. Asha Sajeev scored 93% and won the first place in junior level. Mrs. Asha Sajeev has become the topper in junior level among all orthodox churches globally. It is remarkable that many of our samajamites scored more than 80 %.

OPERATIONS OF THE CHURCH IN 2011-12

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy(VICAR), Mr. P.K. Joseph (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. Samuel P Varghese, 2. Mr. Peter Sam, 3. Mr. Saju M Varghese , 4. Mr. Shibu Mathew, 5. Mr. Mathew Chacko 6. Mr. Binoy Mathunni 7. Mr. Suraj Mathew .T., 8. Mr. N.V. Yohannan , 9. Mr. V. Thankachan, 10. Mr. K.G. Babu , 11. Mr. Biju T Sam (Malankara Association Member, 12. Mr. P.K. Mathew (Internal Auditor & Diocesan Member) 13. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates ( External Auditors)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Molykutty Samuel (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Rosamma Raju (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Suraj Mathew (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Peter Sam (Secretary -OCYM), Mr. Shibu Mathew (Head Master -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

The second Perunal of the church was celebrated on 15-8-2011. Convention was held on 11^th, 12^th, and 13^th August. Rev. Fr. P. V. John, Rev. Fr. Roy. M. Philip and Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy gave messages. A Padayatra was started from Begur to the church covering approximately 10 kilometers on 14^th under the leadership of Marthamariam Samajam which was attended by many church members. A traditional Rasa was held on 14^th evening from the church up to Christ Academy School and back. On August 15^th Holy Tri-mass was celebrated. Very Rev. Bar Sleeba Ramban, was the chief celebrant and Rev. Fr. P.V. John and Rev. Fr. Roy. M. Philip were the other celebrants.

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The third Harvest Festival, held on 4^th March 2012 was indeed a festival for the whole parishioners. The entire parish members and friends of the parish whole heartedly participated in the Harvest Festival by giving donations in cash and in kind which resulted in generating an astounding amount of Rs. 21 Lacs from the Harvest Festival.

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Our choir had been making significant contribution in leading our services for all worship, sacramental services, prayer meetings, conventions, other related events and helping our entire congregation to sing together as a big family. The performance of our choir in Christmas socials ‘Zamar-2011’ and ‘Santharatri-2011’ was greatly appreciated by everyone. Christmas carol singing of our choir was aired in all prime Malayalam channels during Christmas season. The choir met regularly for training under the efficient leadership of Fr. Varghese P. Idichandy. Special thanks to Mr. Santhosh Varghese, choir leader, Mr. Aneesh Cherian, Mr. Renikuttan, Mr. Saju M Varghese and the choir members in making their time and talents available to the church, whenever needed.

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Another very significant event during the year was that eight children of our Parish were given permission to serve in the Holy Altar by the Vicar Rev. Fr. Varghese. P. Idichandy and later by H.G. Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim.

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During the year 2011-12, the following development projects were taken up

1. Parsonage Construction

Construction of a Parsonage Building was our dream.

During the year, the Vicar and Parish members were unanimous in the idea of setting up a Parsonage cum Parish Hall immediately. Accordingly in the General Body Meeting held on 19-06-2011 and presided by Rev. Fr. Varghese. P. Idichandy, it was decided to form a parsonage building committee which included Vicar, Treasurer, Secretary and one member from each ward and the selected members were as under

1 Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy (Vicar), 2. Mr. P.K. Joseph (Treasurer), 3. Prof. Thomas Tharakan(Secretary) 4. Mr. Biju. T .Sam ( Architect) 5. Mr. G. Joy ( Consultant) 6. Mr. P. K. Mathew, 7. Mr. Neel Mathews 8. Mr. Suraj Mathew .T. 9. Mr. Yohannan N. V

H.G.Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim, Diocesan Metropolitan laid the foundation stone for the Parsonage Building on 23-10-2011. The Vicar, Fr. Varghese P Idichandy shared his dream of building the Parsonage and parishioners contributed by setting apart 1% of the value of their residences, which was the first of its kind in Malankara Orthodox Church, and was wholeheartedly accepted by the Parishioners and they responded generously to this request. Several Parishioners had also shown special interest to contribute interest free loans to cover the cost of this project. We are grateful for their generosity. The construction of Parsonage cum Parish hall started on 23-10-2011.

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2. False Ceiling in the Church

It was a long felt need to provide false ceiling in the church to improve the ambience. We were able to finish this work during the year.

3. Gardening

A beautiful garden with lighting around the church was developed and was well maintained to improve the aesthetics of the Church and its premises. We are thankful to Mrs. Chechamma George and her family members for taking all the efforts for the same.

4. Purchase of Car

Our Parishioners observed the need of a vehicle for the use of the Vicar in the Church and purchased a Maruthi Alto car.

Our parish hosted the Malankara Orthodox Marthamariam Samajam’s One Day Conference of the Diocese on 9^th July 2011.

OPERATIONS IN 2012-13

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy(VICAR), Mr. P.K. Joseph (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. Samuel P Varghese, 2. Mr. Skaria George, 3. Mr. Saju M Varghese , 4. Mr. Shibu Mathew, 5. Mr. Mathew Chacko 6. Mr. Binoy Mathunni 7. Mr. Suraj Mathew .T., 8. Mr. Shibu T Daniel , 9. Mr. K.G. Babu , 11. Mr. Biju T Sam (Malankara Association Member, 12. N.V. Yohannan ( Diocesan Council Member) 13. Mr. P.K. Mathew (Internal Auditor) 14. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates (External Auditors)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Leela Joseph (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Rosamma Raju (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Peter Sam (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Sijo Simon (Secretary -OCYM), Mrs. Dina Mathai (Head Mistress -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

During the year all the activities like prayer meetings, Love feasts on 5^th Sunday, celebration of Christmas, Onam etc were carried out as in earlier years as per the guidance of the Vicar Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy. Carols were conducted in all four wards and the houses of the members in each ward were visited. The vicar led the carol in all the wards. Mr. John P David was the Santa Claus in all the wards.

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A Combined meeting of prayer Groups in all churches of Bangalore was held in our Church on 4^th April, 2012. The Diocesan Metropolitan HG Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim, the Priests from all the churches in Bangalore and 300 other participants attended the meeting.

In the Annual General Body Meeting of Bangalore unit of Marthamariam Samajam held in St. Gregorios Cathedral on 7^th July, Mrs. Leela Joseph from our church was unanimously elected as the General Secretary of Bangalore Unit of Marthmariam Samajam.

Our Choir continued to lead our services for all worship, sacramental services, prayer meetings, conventions, and other related events and helped our entire congregation to sing together as a big family. Many of our choir members rendered very beautiful songs in the Musical CD produced by our Vicar Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy. As usual the Choir met regularly for training under the efficient leadership of Rev. Fr. Varghese P. Idichandy.

The third Perunal of our church was on 15-8-2012. Convention was held on 12^th, 13^th, and 14^th August. Rev. Fr. P. V. John was the Chief speaker. A Padayatra was held from Begur to our church on 14^th evening in which many faithful participated enthusiastically. The long procession of believers holding Muthukudas and flags and singing hymns gave a heavenly experience to all those who participated in the procession and for the onlookers. Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy and many parish members gave a befitting reception to the procession. As in previous years, a traditional Rasa was held along the roads on 14^th evening from the church up to Christ Academy School and back. On August 15^th Holy Tri-mass was celebrated. Rev. Fr. P.V. John was the chief celebrant and. Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy and Rev. Fr. Roy. M. Philip were the other celebrants

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It was a matter of great pride and prestige that during that year, we were able to complete the construction of our Parish hall cum Parsonage building named “Beth Ahabah” or “House of Love”.

The Blessing of the Parish hall cum Parsonage was conducted on 14^th October by H.G. Abraham Mar Seraphim, our Diocesan Metropolitan. Along with the Blessing, Felicitations to the new Diocesan Secretary V.Rev. P.C. Philip Cor- episcopa, Malankara Association Members Rev. Fr. K.M. Jacob, Mr. George Jacob, Mr. K.C. Raju and Mr. Mathew Panayil, were also held. All those who worked for the completion of the Parsonage cum Parish hall including the Managing Committee Members, Building Committee members, the Architect Mr. Biju T Sam, the contractor Mr. K. Karthik and the Electrical Engineer Mr. Sunil were honored. The centenary celebrations of establishing the Catholicate of the east was also held in our church along with the blessing. The procession held by our tiny tots holding the Catholicate flags and singing catholicate song was wonderful and heartening to all.

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The fourth Harvest Festival of the Church was held on 24-2-2013 in which all the Parish members and friends of the church participated wholeheartedly by giving donations in cash and kind and by bidding for the items generously. We could generate an amount of Rs. 25, 55, 000 from the Harvest Festival.

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10 members from our parish wrote MOMS examination held in October 2012, in Super Senior, Senior, and Junior levels and all the members passed very meritoriously, 8 of them scoring more than 90% marks. In the Diocesan Level Mrs. Rosamma Raju bagged the first price in Senior Level, Mrs. Sumi Eapen and Mrs. Sherley Shibu bagged 2^nd prize in Senior Level and Mrs. Mary Antony bagged 3^rd Prize in Junior Level.

To bring out a Parish Diary with the history of the church and photos , address and other details of the Parish members, was a long cherished dream of the Parish members. A committee was constituted with Mr. Samuel P Varghese as the Convener and Mr. P.K. Joseph, Prof. Thomas Tharakan, Mr. Saju M Varghese, Mr. Ambish Jacob Karuchira and Mr. Joe Varghese John as the members. Necessary activities for the same such as taking photographs and details of the parishioners were initiated immediately.

OPERATIONS OF THE CHURCH IN 2013-14

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam (VICAR), Mr. P.K. Joseph (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. Samuel P Varghese, 2. Mr. Joe Varghese John, 3. Mr. T.T. Varghese, 4. Mr. Shibu Mathew, 5. Mr. Mathew Chacko 6. Mr. Binoy Mathunni 7. Mr. Suraj Mathew .T., 8. Mr. K. M. Geevarghese , 9. Mr. K.G. Babu , 10. Mr. Biju T Sam (Malankara Association Member, 11. N.V. Yohannan ( Diocesan Council Member) 12. Mr. Alex Stephen (Internal Auditor) 13. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates (External Auditors)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Sumi Eapen (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Rosamma Raju (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Shibu Kurian (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Sijo Simon (Secretary -OCYM), Mrs. Dina Mathai (Head Mistress -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

With effect from 1-5-2013, our vicar Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy was transferred to Mathikere church and Rev. Fr. James Eapen, Kuttikandam took charge as the new Vicar of the Church. The church members are very grateful to Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy for the leadership and guidance given to the church during its growing years.

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During the year all the activities like prayer meetings, Love feasts on 5^th Sunday, celebration of Christmas, Onam etc were carried out as in earlier years as per the guidance of the Vicar Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam. Carols were conducted in all four wards and the houses of the members in each ward were visited. The vicar led the carol in all the wards.

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‘Jeunesse 2013’ the inter-church competitions of all the churches in Bangalore Diocese was held in our church on 27-7-2013, which was very well managed and attended by a large crowd.

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Our Choir continued to lead our services, for all worship, sacramental services, prayer meetings, conventions, and other related events.

The fourth Perunal of our church was on 15-8-2013. Convention was held on 12^th, 13^th, and 14^th August. Rev. Fr. P. V. John, Rev. Fr. Saji Daniel and Rev. Fr. Benjamin were the speakers. Padayatra was held from Begur to our church on 14^th evening as in earlier years which was started from Begur with Prayer by the Vicar in which many faithful participated enthusiastically. The Vicar and many parish members gave a befitting reception at the church to the procession. As in previous years, a traditional Rasa was held along the roads on 14^th evening from the church up to Christ Academy School and back. On August 15^th Holy Tri-mass was celebrated. Rev. Fr. P.V. John, Rev. Fr. Benjamin and Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy were the celebrants.

To cater to the water requirements of the church and parsonage, a bore-well was dug and suitable pump set installed. For easy movement of the Vicar, a scooter was purchased for the church with the generous donations of two church members.

The fifth Harvest Festival of the Church was held on 16-2-2014 in which all the Parish members and friends of the church generously participated . We could generate an amount of Rs. 8,19,700/- from the Harvest Festival.

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10 members from our parish wrote MOMS examination held in October 2013, in Super Senior, Senior, and Junior levels and all the members passed very meritoriously.

It is a matter of great satisfaction that during this year we were able to repay all the interest free loans, taken from the Parish members during the construction of the Parsonage. We could also clear all the outstanding payments to the Contractors.

OPERATIONS OF THE CHURCH IN 2014-15

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam (VICAR), Mr. N.V.Yohannan (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. P.K.Joseph, 2. Mr. Joe Varghese John, 3. Mr. P.K. Mathew , 4. Mr. T.T. Varghese, 5. Mr. Renil Babu , 6. Mr. Sajeev G Eapen 7. Mr. Binoy Mathunni 8. Mr. Biju Papachan, 9. Mr. K.M.Geevarghese , 10. Mr. Joji George , 11. Mr. Biju T Sam (Malankara Association Member, 12. N.V. Yohannan ( Diocesan Council Member) 13. Mr. Alex Stephen (Internal Auditor) 14. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates (External Auditors)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Sumi Eapen (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Mariamma Mathen (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Shibu Kurian (Treasurer -MGOCSM), Mr. Sijo Simon (Secretary -MGOCSM), Mrs. Dina Mathai (Head Mistress -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

During the year all the activities like prayer meetings, Love feasts on 5^th Sunday, celebration of Onam etc were carried out as in earlier years as per the guidance of the Vicar Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam.

Orthodox Vacation bible School was conducted from 29^th May to 1^st June in the Church, which was a great success and was very well enjoyed by all the children who participated. Dn. Mobin Varghese led the OVBS.

Our church was selected as one venue for conducting inter church Sunday School competitions and children from 6 churches in Bangalore Diocese participated in the Competitions held on 29-8-2014. All those who attended the function and all the participants very much appreciated the arrangements made by the church.

At the time of the Blessing of the Aramana on 23-11-2012, our Metropolitan, Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim declared that ten houses would be constructed in the Diocese and donated to people without houses. We are proud to record that the first house was constructed by the Parish and donated to a Kanadiga, Mr. Ramesh on 15-8-2014. The finance for the same was arranged mainly from 10% of the Harvest Festival Collections earmarked for charity and from donations received from the Parish members and friends of the parish.

Our Choir continued to lead our services for all worship, sacramental services, prayer meetings, conventions, and other related events .

The fifth Perunal of our church was celebrated on 15-8-2014. Convention was held on 12^th, 13^th, and 14^th August. Rev. Fr. Santhosh and Rev. Fr. K.M. Jacob, were the speakers. Padayatra was held from Begur to our church on 14^th evening as in earlier years which was started from Begur with Prayer by the Vicar in which more than 50 faithful enthusiastically participated. The Vicar and many parish members gave a befitting reception at the church to the procession. As in previous years, a traditional Rasa was held along the roads on 14^th evening from the church up to Christ Academy School and back. Our Diocesan Metropolitan Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim graced the occasion by his presence on 14^th and 15^th and by being the main Celebrant of the Holy Tri-mass on August 15^th. Rev. Fr. Joshua and Rev. Fr. Varghese P Idichandy were the other celebrants

OPERATIONS OF THE CHURCH IN 2015-16

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam (VICAR), Mr. N.V.Yohannan (Treasurer) Prof. Thomas Tharakan (secretary)

Managing Committee Members

1 Mr. P.K.Joseph, 2. Mr. Joe Varghese John, 3. Mr. P.K. Mathew , 4. Mr. T.T. Varghese, 5. Mr. M.M.Varghese , 6. Mr. Sonny Eapen 7. Sajeev G Eapen 8. Mr. Binoy Mathunni 9. Mr. Biju Papachan, 10. Mr. Saju Varghese, 11. Mr. K.M.Geevarghese , 12. Mr. Joji George , 13. Mr. Biju T Sam (Malankara Association Member, 14. N.V. Yohannan (Diocesan Council Member) 15. Mr. Peter Sam (Internal Auditor) 16. M/s. Philip Cherian & Associates (External Auditors)

OFFICE BEARERS OF SPIRITUAL ORGANISATIONS

Mrs. Suja Thomas (Treasurer -MOMS), Mrs. Rini Papachan (Secretary -MOMS) , Mr. Shibu Kurian (Treasurer -OCYM), Mr. Sijo Simon (Secretary -OCYM), Mrs. Asha Biju (Head Mistress -Sunday School), Mr. John P David (Prayer Meeting Convener)

During the year the activities of all organizations like Choir, MOMS, MGOCSM and OCYM and Sunday School continue as in previous years, as per the guidance of the Vicar Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam.

Prayer meetings are held in each ward, once in a month. Orthodox Vacation Bible School was conduct from 28^th to 30^th May in the Church, which was well enjoyed by all the children who participated. Dn. Shinu Cherian assisted by Br. Denis Daniel, led the OVBS.

One very significant activity during the year was the starting of a Play School by the name St.Mary’s Nest, under St. Mary’s Educational and Charitable Trust, utilizing the space in the ground floor of the Parish Hall, which was inaugurated on 21^st June 2015, by the Diocesan Metropolitan H.G. Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim. Rev. Fr. James Eapen Kuttikandam is the Manager of the School and Mrs. Sumi Eapen is the Principal. In a meeting held on 21^st June 2015, all the senior members of the church above 60 years of age were honored by the Diocesan Metropolitan H.G. Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim.

The sixth Perunal of the church is scheduled to be held on 15^th August 2015. H.G. Dr. Joshua Mar Nicodimos, Metropolitan of Nilakkal Diocese, who was associated with us for almost two years as the Priest in charge of the chapel from 2006 to 2007, has kindly consented to bless us with his presence on the occasion . Three day Convention from 12^th to 14^th August, Padayatra from Begur and Traditional Rasa on 14^th Tri-mass on 15^th and other programs as in previous years are also planned.

With a humble prayer that the intercession of St. Mary our Patron, St. Thomas, Mar Gregorios, Mar Dionesious, and all other Church fathers bring blessings from God Almighty and may the Holy Spirit guide us in the Christian spirit of love and cooperation in future also so that we continue to grow and become His Witnesses, we submit this church history as on 2^nd August 2015.