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H G Mathews Mar Bernabas Metropolitan
Birthday:
August 9, 1924
The present Metropolitan of the American Diocese of the
Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, chose his name to be Barnabas at the time of
his consecration after St. Barnabas who accompanied St. Paul during his
missionary journey This name fits this bishop, because of his fervor for the
holy Gospel of the Lord. As a priest he went where other priests hesitated to
go. He puts his heart and soul to live his divine call. His austere and simple
ways of life always stand as a living testimony of the Gospel. He has only one
subject to talk about- the Church and the spiritual life. His saintly ways are
an immense inspiration for the people whom he shepherds. His humility is such
that he never holds on to the high esteem of 'episcopacy'. His needs are few
and so, he is never a burden for the people whom he leads. He is extremely
faithful in the financial matters of the diocese. Under his leadership the
parishes of the American diocese enjoy peace and steady progress.
Early Life
On August 9, 1924, Mathukutty (His boyhood name) was born in
Kallarackaparampil house at Vengola, (the village of Augen Catholicos), to
Koralla and Mariamma of the Kidangethu Thompra family He is the youngest of
four brothers and two sisters. His twin brother is a retired Engineer. One of
his sisters, Mary, was a nun who was one of the founding members of the
Bethlehem Convent at Kizhakkambalam, near Alwaye. His maternal grandfather and
paternal uncle were priests of good learning and leadership. Their earnestness
in the service of the Church and dedication to the Orthodox Christian way of
life, were an early inspiration for young Mathukutty. His mother was very
pious and devoted to the Church and Faith. Her uncompromising habit of fasting
and the love for the poor, made deep impression in the mind of her son.
At the age of 7, Mathukutty decided to be a monk and gave
up eating meat and fish. He planned to join the Gathsemon Dayara at Piramadam,
near Moovattupuzha, of which his'uncle, Rev. fr. K.P.Paulose, B.D., was one of
the founding members. During summer holidays Mathukutty and his twin brother
used to stay in the monastery putting themselves through the austere routines
of the monastic life.
Education
Mathukutty studied in the M,M High School at Kuruppumpady. He passed the
intermediate examination from the CMS College, Kottayam. He received his B.Sc
degree (Biology) from the Madras Christian College. While serving the
Secunderabad parish, he studied in the Osmania University and got his M.Sc.
degree.
He began his theological studies under the guidance of his
uncle Rev. Fr. K.P. Paulose, B.D. In 1949 he joined the Orthodox Theological
Seminary as a special student and studied Syriac for two years. While he was
the Vicar of the Calcutta parish, he studied at the Bishop's College, Calcutta
and earned his B.D. degree (1960) from the Serampore University, as an
external student.
Ordination
After High School graduation, he spent two years meditating and praying to
choose his life career. In 1943, H. H. Baselios Gheevarghese 11 ordained him
as a deacon at the St.Thomas Cheriapally, Thuruthiply, Vengola - his mother
church. In 195 1 H.G.Augen Thimotheos (later Catholicos), ordained him to the
holy priesthood. After the election to be a Bishop, he was professed Ramban in
1977. On May 15, 1978, H.H. Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews I consecrated him as
Bishop at Pazhanji Church, with the name Barnabas.
Career
In 1947, Dn. Mathukutty, started his professional life as a teacher at the M.M.
High School, Kuruppumpady. He taught there for two years and continued to
teach for another two years at the MD Seminary High School, Kottayam, until he
was oiclained priest.
He was the Vicar of the churches at Secunderabad
(1951-'55), Valayanchirangara (1955-'57), Calcutta (1957-'6 1), and Jabalpur
(196 1 -'63.). While he was the Vicar in Calcutta, he started congregations in
Patna, Darbanga, Kharakpur, Asensol, Durgapur, Rourkela, Sindri, and Ranchi.
During his time at Vellore as the Vicar of the St.Luke's church (1963-'67), he
did volunteer work in the Vellore Medical Mission Hospital. He was a lecturer
in the Orthodox Theological Seminary at Kottayam(1967-1972). During this
period he was the Resident Faculty Member at the Seminary and full time
warden. He was the first one to serve the Seminary full time, in this
capacity.
He served as the first full time Chaplain in the Kolenchery Medical Mission
Hospital from 19721978.
After becoming a bishop, he was the Manager for the Corporate Colleges,
President of the Temperance Movement of our Church, President of the Marth
Mariam Samajam, and President of the Balika Samajam.
Episcopal Life
He started his episcopal ministry as the Assistant Bishop of the Ankamali and
Kottayam Dioceses. In 1982 he was appointed as the Metropolitan of the newly
formed Idikki Diocese. There, under his leadership, the Diocesan Center and
the residence of the bishop were built at Chakkupallam.. He led the Diocese
efficiently, organized new parishes and visited his whole flock regularly.
Iclikki Orthodox Medical Center at Nettithozhum is another significant
achievement for the Church.
In 1992, the Holy Episcopal Synod sent His Grace to USA to
look after the American Diocese as the assistant to the Catholicos. In 1993
the present Catholicos enthroned him as the Diocesan Bishop, at the St. Mary's
Orthodox Church, W.Saywille, in New York.
After Thirumeni took charge, the Diocese progressed with
leaps and bounds. The first and foremost achievement is, buying a center for
the Diocesan Office and residence for the bishop. Fulltime staff was appointed
in the office and regular communication with the parishes and priests became
possible. His Grace appointed people to be in charge of all the spiritual
organizations. Regular conferences for
all the spiritual organizations are now conducted. Many new parishes were
organized in the remote areas of the country New priests and deacons were
ordained to serve the parishes. During his administration, many parishes
bought their own church properties.
Under his leadership, Campus Ministry became a reality and
an integral part of the work of the diocese. A quarterly publication 'The
Diocesan Voice' is published with the news, articles and relevant information
for the faithful. A Directory that will contain all the information about the
diocese will be published in 2004. Salary scheme for the priests has just
begun.
His ecumenical endeavors brought fruit by getting the
Diocese accepted into the National Council of Churches of Christ (NCC of
America). He is in cordial relationship with all the leaders of the other
Churches, especially of the other Orthodox Churches. Barnabas Thirumeni
published 24 books on biblical themes and theology. He is a regular
contributor of articles to the Malankara Sabha magazine. A video Cassette on
the Faith and Practices of the Indian Orthodox Church was also published under
his direction. He is known in our church as the master Retreat Leader.
His compassion for the sick and suffering is well known.
Nothing prevents him from visiting the sick people when he visits the
parishes. Now this true shepherd is 80 years old, and very vigilant about his
calling. May the Lord shower on him health and vigor for the many years to
come.
H.G. Zachariah Mar Nicholovos (Assistant
Metropolitan)
Birthday: Aug. 13, 1959
In August 2002, His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos was appointed as the
Assistant Metropolitan of the American Diocese.
Assistant to Metropolitan of America,
Indian Orthodox Church Centre,
80-34 Commonwealth Blvd.,
Bellerose, N.Y-11426,
U S A. Ph: 001 71854 16286 Email:
thirumeni@aol.com
History of the Diocese
The pioneers of Indian immigration to the United
States were young college graduates who, beginning in 1940s, arrived in small
numbers in search of higher education at American universities especially in
the Northeast. This trend continued in the 1950s and 1960s.
Larger groups began arriving in the 1960s and 1970s in search of professional
careers. The influx of Indian immigrants to the New World reached its peak in
the 1980s, when large numbers of Indians living in India and the
Middle-eastern countries flooded into metropolitan cities like New York,
Chicago, and Houston as relatives of the first immigrants and also as a result
of the rising political unrest in the Middle East.
The first Indian Orthodox Church clergymen came to the USA for higher
education during the time of His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II. The first
Indian Orthodox Church congregation started in New York in the late 1950s and
the first official parish in the late 1960s. By early 1970s, the number of
Indian immigrants grew and there were about ten clergymen serving the Indian
Orthodox Church in America. Several parishes were organized by these clergymen
and laypeople under the Outside Kerala Diocese headed by His Grace Mathews Mar
Athanasius, Metropolitan and Catholicos-designate.
In 1975 Rev. Fr. K.C. Thomas was elevated as a bishop by name His Grace Thomas
Mar Makarios. In 1976 the parishes in America and Canada were brought under a
new Diocese called "Bombay Diocese". The Managing Committee and the Holy
Episcopal Synod declared establishment of the American Diocese in January
1979. His Holiness Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews I, Catholicos and Malankara
Metropolitan came to America in July 1979, and the American Diocese was
established officially by His Holiness presiding over the enthronement
ceremony of His Grace Thomas Mar Makarios as the first Metropolitan.
During the 1980s, several parishes purchased their own church buildings for
their worship services and other activities. Currently, about half of our
parishes own their church buildings. The American Diocese is one of the 22
Dioceses of the Indian Orthodox Church with headquarters in Kottayam, Kerala
in India and His Holiness Baselios Mar Thoma Didymos I as the supreme head of
the Church.
Currently, there are about ten thousand Indian Orthodox Christians in the
United States. There are 66 parishes assisted by 78 priests and 9 deacons in
the American Diocese. The head of the American Diocese, also known as the
Diocesan Metropolitan is His Grace Mathews Mar Barnabas. The Diocesan
Metropolitan is president of the Diocesan Council consisting of the Diocesan
Metropolitan, the Diocesan Secretary, two (2) clergy council members, and four
(4) lay council members, which governs the affairs of the Diocese. The
Diocesan Metropolitan is president of the Board of Trustees consisting of the
Diocesan Metropolitan, the Diocesan Secretary, and one lay member, which
govern the assets (real estate and others) of the Diocese. The Diocesan
Metropolitan presides over all spiritual organizations of the Diocese as well
as the Diocesan Assembly. In August 2002, His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos
was appointed as the Assistant Metropolitan of the American Diocese.
Major centers of Indian Orthodox Church population in the United States
include the greater New York area, New Jersey, Chicago, Houston, Dallas,
Philadelphia, and Detroit. Substantial and expanding communities exist in
Atlanta, Florida, California, the greater Washington DC / Baltimore area,
Boston and Austin.
Address:
Diocesan headquarters,
80-34 Commonwealth Blvd.,
Bellerose, New York 11426.
Tel: 718-470-9844
Fax: 718-470-9219
E-mail:
secretaryachen@yahoo.com
Diocesan Secretary
Rev.Fr.John
Thomas
945 N 7th
Street
New Hyde Park,
NY 11040
(516) 328 2977
E mail:
fr_johnthomas@hotmail.com
Parishes of the North East American Diocese
1 Albany, St Paul's Congregation
2 Baltimore, St Thomas Church
3 Bergenfield, St Stephen's Church
4 Boston, St Mary's Church
5 Bronx, St Gregorios Church
6 Bronx, St Mary's Church
7 Brooklyn, St Baselios Church
8 Brooklyn, St Marys Church
9 Canada Long Island St Stephens Orthodox Church
10 Canada, Kingston St George Congregation
11 Canada, Montreal St Thomas Orthodox Church
12 Central Jersey St Baselious & Gregorios Orthodox (New Brunswick)
13 Clifton St Gregorios Orthodox Church (West Orange)
14 Damascus, St Thomas Church
15 Delaware Valley, St John's Church
16 Dover, St Thomas Orthodox Church
17 Duchess County (Conn) St Gregorios Orthodox Church
18 Dumont St George Congregation (New Jersey)
19 Elmont St Baselious Orthodox Church (Wood Side)
20 Floral Park, St Gregorios Church
21 Garden City St Basil Orthodox Church(Franklin Square)
22 Holy Cross Orthodox Mission Parish
23 Jackson Heights, St Mary's Orthodox Church
24 Long Island, St Thomas Church
25 Manhattan, Holy Cross Mission
26 Montclair, St Mary's Church
27 Northern Virginia, St Mary's Church
28 Philadelphia, St Gregorios Church
29 Philadelphia, St Mary's Church (Devereaux Ave)
30 Philadelphia, St Mary's Church (Orthodox St)
31 Philadelphia, St Thomas (Mascher St)
32 Philadelphia, St Thomas (Unruh Ave)
33 Queens, St Gregorios Church(Cherry Lane)
34 Queens, St Gregorios Church(Elmont)
35 Rochester, St Thomas Church
36 Rockland (Suffern) St Mary's Orthodox Church
37 Rockland, St Johns Church
38 Sparkhill, Sts Peter & Paul Church
39 Staten Island, Mar Gregorios Church
40 Staten Island, St George Church
41 Staten Island, St Mary's Church
42 Suffern, St Mary's Church
43 Syracuse, St Thomas Congregation
44 Toronto, St Gregorios Church (Hamilton)
45 Toronto, St Gregorios Church (Mississauga)
46 Washington D C, St Gregorios Church
47 Washington D C, St Thomas Church
48 West Nyack, St Mary's Church
49 West Sayville St Mary's Orthodox Church Church (Silver Spring)
50 Westchester, St George Church
51 Westchester, St Gregorios Church (Underhill)
52 White Plains, St Mary's Church
53 Yonkers, St Gregorios Church (Park Hill)
54 Yonkers, St Thomas Church
Priests
Conference
Parish Details
1. Albany, St. Paul's Congregation
Phone:
Email:
Website:
2. Baltimore, St. Thomas Church
7321 Windsor Mill Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21244
Phone:
(410) 944 5900
Email:
Website:
http://www.stthomasbaltimore.com/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.K P Varghese,
9 keenmill Ct,
Baltimore,MD 21228
(410) 247 9861
Email:
revphilvarghese@hotmail.com
Secretary:Mr. Thomas Mathew
Email:
tm4039@verizon.net
Trustee:Mr. A.V. Varghese
Email:
rajujolly@msn.com
3. Bergenfield, St. Stephen's Church
52 E Johnson Ave Bergenfield, NJ 07621
Phone:(201) 384 1144
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Babu k Mathew,
170 Bergen Ave,
New Milford,NJ 07646
(201) 261 1079
4. Boston, St. Mary's Church Indian Orthodox
Church
65 Great Rd,
Maynard, MA 01754-2025
Phone:(781) 899 6554
Email:
mail@stmarysboston.org
Website:
http://www.stmarysboston.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Roy Perumala George
(484) 889 8307
65 Great Rd,
Maynard, MA
Tel: 978-212-5698
Email:
vicar@stmarysboston.org
5. Bronx, St. Gregorios Church
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Dr. Varghese Planthottam Chor-Episcopos,
2035, Central Park Ave,
L C .Yonkers,
NY 10710.
914-793-9153
6. Bronx, St. Mary's Church
360 Bedford Park Blvd.
Bronx, NY 10458
Phone:
(718) 584-1900
Email:
administration@stmarysbronx.org
Website:
http://stmarysbronx.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.A K Cheriyan
61 Mary Street
Tappan
NY 10983-1720
(845) 359 9583
Deacon
Rev. Dn Paul Cherian
Rev. Dn Philip Mathew
7. Brooklyn, St. Baselios Church
401 Seneca Ave.
Ridgewood, NY 11385
Phone:
(718) 456 3281
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.George Mathew
59 Timber Ridge Rd
Commack,
NY 11725
(631) 269 0892
8. Brooklyn, St. Mary's Church
940 4th Ave
Brooklyn, NY
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
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Very.Rev.CM John Chor-Episcopos,
248 New jersey Ave
Union
NJ 07083
(908) 688 4166
9. Central NJ, Sts. Baselios & Gregorios Church
New Brunswick Seminary
17 Seminary Pl.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone:
Email:
Website:
http://www.njorthodoxxchurch.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Dr. Mathew C Chacko
4 Berkshire Way,
East BrunSwick,
NJ 08816
Email:
talmido@aol.com /
frmathewChacko@aol.com /
ccmathewsachen@aol.com
(732) 238 7825
Secretary : Mr. Varughese Mathew (Abey)
Treasurer : Joshua Philip
Joint Secretary Mr. Santhosh Thomas
Joint Treasurer Mr. John Johnson
10. New Jercy Clifton, St. Gregorios Church
1231 Van Houten Ave Clifton, NJ 07103
Phone:
Email:
Website:
http://www.stgregorioschurchnj.org
Name:
Phone:
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Rev.Fr.Babu Varghese(Shebaly)
7244,Horrocks Street
Philadelphia,
PA 19149
215- 279-8452 /(215) 310 9630
Email:
shebaly@gmail.com
11. Wasgington (Damascus), St. Thomas Church
28201 Kemptown Road
Damascus, MD 20872
Phone:
(301) 253 - 4300
Email:
info@stthomaschurchdc.com
Website:
http://www.stthomaschurchdc.com/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Reji Chacko
(301) 570 3614
12. (Philadelphia) Delaware Valley, St. John's
Church
4400 State Rd.
Drexel Hill, PA
19026
Phone:(610) 734 0930
Email:
stjohnsioc@yahoo.com
Website:
http://www.sjioc.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Roy Perumala George
(484) 889 8307
13. Dover, St. Thomas Church
360 W. Blackwell St
Dover, NJ 07801
Phone:
Email:
Website:
http://www.njstthomas.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Sunny Joseph
vicar@njstthomas.org
290, Woodbine Ave,
Staten island,
NY 10314 718- 477-2083
Trustee Korah Kuruvilla
trustee@njstthomas.org
Secretary George Thumpayil
secretary@njstthomas.org
Joint Trustee George Abraham
jointtrustee@njstthomas.org
Joint Secretary Minu Mathew
jointsecretary@njstthomas.org
14. Dumont, St. George Congregation
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Dr. KK Kurriakose,
703,Scarsdale Rd,
Lyonkers,NY 10707
(914)793 -3190
15. Dutchess County, St. Gregorios Church
P.O.Box 57
Hopewell Jct, NY 12533
Phone:
Email:
Website:
http://www.stgregoriosny.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Jobson Kottapurathu
5304, Princes Circle,
Wapingers Falls NY 12590.
(845) 596 5373 / 845-632-1466(R)
Email:
fatherjobson@stgregoriosny.org
16. Cherry Lane (Floral Park), St. Gregorios
Church
175 Cherry Lane
Floral Park, NY 11001
Phone:(516) 775 2281
Email:
Website:http://www.stgregorios.com
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Vicar
Very.Rev.Dr. PS Samuel Chor-Episcopos,
411 Brown Place,
New Hyde Park,
NY 11040
(516) 355 0003
17. Franklin Square, St. Basil Church
17 Randolph Ave
Franklin Square, NY 11010
Phone:(516) 326 4394
Email:
Website:
http://www.stbasilchurchny.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Thomas P. Johnson
(516) 561 7377
18. Jackson Heights, St. Mary's Church
3720 61st St. Woodside, NY 11377
Phone:(718) 396 4758
E-mail:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.John Thomas
E-mail:
secretaryachen@yahoo.com
945 N 7th Street
New Hyde Park,
NY 11040
(516) 328 2977
19. Long Island, St. Stephens Church,
P.O. Box 117
Albertson, NY 11507
Phone:
Email:
ststephensny@gmail.com
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.CK Rajan,181,
Brielle Ave,
Staten Island,
NY 10314-6422
(718) 761 3521
Deacon
Rev. Dn Daniel (Dennis) G. Mathai
20. Long Island, St. Thomas Church
262-22 Union Tpke
Floral Park, NY 11426
Phone:
(718) 343 7471
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
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Very.Rev.Yohannan Sankarathil Chor-Episcopos,
58 Britton road,
Garden city park,
NY.11040-3433(R)
(516) 746 5086
Deacon
Rev. Dn Sujit T Thomas
516 328 3760
21. Manhattan, Holy Cross Mission
Phone:
Email:
holycrosschurchnyc@gmail.com
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Paulose T Peter
8 Waterford Way Syosset,
NY 11791
(516) 922 3127
22. Montclair, St. Mary's Church
Services at:
40 South Fullerton Ave
Montclair, NJ, 07042
mailing address:
P.o. Box 244
Bloomfield, NJ, 07003
Phone:
Website:
http://www.stmarysnj.org
Email:
secretary@stmarysnj.org
Treasurer:
treasurer@stmarysnj.org
23. Northern Virginia, St. Mary's Church
P.O. Box 134
Fairfax, VA 22038
Phone:
Email:
stmarysnova@stmarysnova.org
Web:
http://www.stmarysnova.org/
Mail: St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church
P.O. Box 134
Fairfax, VA 22038
Vicar: Rev. Fr. Joshua John
(571)292-1447
Email:
achen@stmarysnova.org
Trustee: Mr. George Koodarappally
Email:
trustee@stmarysnova.org
Secretary: Mr. Justin Mathews
Email:secretary@stmarysnova.org
24. Philadelphia, St. Gregorios Church
4136 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA, 19020
Phone:
Email:
stgregoriosphila@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.stgregoriosphila.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Very.Rev.Mathai Chor-Episcopos,
1037,Edwerds Dr,
Spring fields,
Pa,19064-3711
(610) 544 2742
Deacon
Rev. Dn Markose Mani
215 482 8022
Secretary:Mr. Paul C. Mathai Treasurer:Mr. Thomas Joseph
25. Philadelphia, St. Mary's Cathedral
(Orthodox St)
1424 Orthodox Street
Philadelphia, PA 19124
Phone:(215) 289 4822
Email:
Website:
http://www.stmaryscathedral.net
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Very. Rev. Fr. C. J. Johnson Cor Episcopa
2131 Batchelder Street,Brooklyn,NY,11229-5103(R)(718)646-1933
E-mail:
johnsonachen@stmaryscathedral.net
Secretary: Rony Varghese
Phone: 267-243-9229
E-mail:
secretary@stmaryscathedral.net
Trustee: Philipose Cheriyan
9741 Portis Rd. Philadelphia,PA 19115
Phone: 215-671-1041
E-mail:
treasurer@stmaryscathedral.net
26. Philadelphia, St. Mary's Church (Devereaux
Ave)
514 Devereaux Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19111
Phone:
(215) 343 5922
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Dr. Samuel K. Mathew
28 Monica drive,
Holland,
PA 18966
215-942- 9195
27. Philadelphia, St. Thomas (Mascher St.)
5422 Mascher St.
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
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Rev.Fr.KK John
328 Avon Street
Philadelphia
PA 19116
718-646-1933
(215) 673 2769
28. Philadelphia, St. Thomas (Unruh Ave)
1009 Unruh Ave,
Philadelphia PA 19111
Phone:(215) 342 1500
Fax : (215)-342-2700
Email:
Website:
http://www.stthomasphiladelphia.org/index.html
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.MK Kuriakose,
1827 Faunce St,
Philadelphia
PA 19111
215-728- 1972
201.681.1078 (Cell)
kuriakosem@hotmail.com
Deacon
Rev. Dn Gheevarghese John
Secretary:Mathew Samuel,
215.969.1793 (Home)
215.667.4200 (Cell)
Email:
msamue2000@yahoo.com
29. Queens, St. Gregorios Church
987 Elmont Road
North Valley Stream
NY 11580
Phone:
516 285 4147
Email:
Website:
http://www.stgregoriosorthodoxchurchqueens.com
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Very.Rev.Yesudasan Pappan Chor-Episcopos,
838 Avenue Z,
Brooklin,
NY.11235-7703
(718) 934 1636
Treasurer: Mr.Rajan George 631 - 968 5345 Email:rajangeorge75@yahoo.com
Secretary:Mr. John Varghese 516-796-5320 Email:johnvktr@optonline.net
30. Rochester, St. Thomas Church
2000 Highland Ave
Rochester, NY
Phone:
(716) 243 1445
Email:
Website:
31. Rockland, St. Johns Church
15B Church Road
Suffern, NY 10901
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Thomaskutty, Koduvettoor,
15 B Church Road,
Suffern, NY 10901
845-504-5764
32. Sparkhill, Sts. Peter & Paul Church
416 Valentine Ave
Sparkhill, NY 10956
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
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Rev.Fr.Thomas Mathew,
24 East Cavalry Dr,
New City, NY 10956
845-634- 2152
33. Staten Island, Mar Gregorios Church
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Cherian Mundackal
(718) 524 7407
34. Staten Island, St. George Church
75 Cedar Grove Ave.
Staten Island, NY 10306
Phone:
(718) 351 5585
Email:
stgeorgechurchsi@verizon.net
Website:
http://www.stgeorgechurchsi.org/
Phone : 718-351-5585
Rev. Fr. Alex. K. Joy
47 Manger Rd., West Orange, NJ 07052
Ph : (973)-489-6440
Treasurer :Mr. Philip Varughese
Ph : (718)-698-2195
Secretary :Mr. Idicula Daniel
Ph : (718)-494-4648
(718)464-7695
Deacon
Rev. Dn Andrew (Leeson) Daniel
35. Staten Island, St. Mary's Church
130 Park Ave.
Staten Island, NY
Tel: 631-749-0770
Fax: 631-749-3472
Email:
Website:
http://www.stmaryssi.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.TA Thomas,
419 Stillwell corner road,
Freehold,NJ.07728
(908)780-0145
(732) 780 0145
36. Suffern, St. Mary's Church
66 E. Maple Ave, Suffern, NY 10901
Phone:
(845) 369 9620
Email:
webmaster@stmarysrockland.org
Website:
http://www.stmarysrockland.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Dr. Raju Varghese,
211 Beverly Road,
Hawthrone,
NY 10532
914- 747-1454
Secretary Mr. John Jacob
Treasurer Mr. Varghese Abraham
37. Syracuse, St. Thomas Congregation
523 West Onodoaga St.
Syracuse, NY 13204
Phone:
Email:
Website:
38. Toronto, St. Gregorios Church (Mississauga)
St. Gregorios Orthodox Church of Toronto
6890 Professional Court, Mississauga,
Ontario L4V 1X6, Canada
Phone:
(905) 671 1878
Email:
Website:
http://www.saintgregorioschurch.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Vicar:Rev. Fr. Thomas George
647-345-0191
Email:
frthomasgeorge@yahoo.com
Treasurer: John Mathen Email:
mathen@canada.com
905-387-2207
Secretary:Manu Abraham Email:
manu.abraham@aero.bombardier.com
905-276-3935
39.Toronto,
St. Gregorios Church (Hamilton)
Church Address: Payal Banquet Hall, 3410 Semenyk Court, Mississauga, ON
L5C 4P9,Canada
Phone:
Email:
admin@stgoc.org
Website:
http://stgoc.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Ramban Lazarus OIC Cor-episcopa
123 Charlton Av East, Unit 108
Hamilton, On L8N 3W3.
(905) 393 0639
Email:
lazaruskc2@hotmail.com
Secretary : Mr. Santosh Koshy
Email:sankoshy@gmail.com
Trustee:Mr. Matt Mathews
Email:mmathews1@cogeco.ca
40. Washington D. C., St. Gregorios Church
2337 Fairland Road
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Mailing Address:
P. O. Box 317
Olney, MD 20830
Phone:
Email:
Website:
http://www.stgregorioschurchdc.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Laby George
Post Box No.317, Olney MD 20830 301-325-5352
Trustee :Sunil Samuel
2337 Fairland Road
Silver Spring, MD 20904
301-213-3844
Secretary:Cherian Varghese (Santhosh)
2337 Fairland Road
Silver Spring, MD 20904
571-277-2580 / (301)384-3833
41. Washington D. C., St. Thomas Church
13505 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
Phone:
(240) 426-2344
Email:
Website:
http://www.st-thomas-orthodox-dc.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Varghese K. Joshua
E-mail:
stioc.vicar@gmail.com
Phone: (301)-803-0701 & 240-426-3882/(301) 672 5107
Deacon
Dn. George Mathew Jr.
E-mail:
gm521@yahoo.com
Secretary:Mr. Thomas Varghese
Email:
stioc.secretary@gmail.com
Phone: (301)-464-5725
Treasurer:Mr. Isaac John
E-mail:
stioc.treasurer@gmail.com
Phone: (703)-406-1279 & 703-851-7017
42. West Nyack, St. Mary's Church
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Mathew Thomas 3
Alyssa Ct, Valley Cottage,
NY 10989
845-267- 8003
43.West Sayville, St. Mary's Church
38 Cherry Ave.
West Sayville, NY 11796
Phone:
(631) 589 7026
Email:
Website:
http://www.stmaryswestsayville.org/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Very.Rev.Paulose Adai Chor-Episcopos ,
2635,East 6 Street,
Brooklyn,NY.11235-7703
718-648-8172
Deacon
Rev. Dn Abi Chacko
516 655 0117
44. Westchester, St. George Church
360 Irving Ave.
Port Chester, NY, 10573 USA
Phone:
(914) 937 9000
Email:
mail@stgeorgeorthodoxchurch.org
Website:
http://www.stgeorgeorthodoxchurch.org
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Dr. George koshy,
8 Eisenhower Dr Yonkers,
NY 10710
914-961- 1587
Deacon
Rev. Dn Geevarghese (Abu) Koshy
Secretary: SHAJI KOSHY (845) 897-2848 / (914) 380-2380
Trustee: EBY KURIAKOSE (845) 724-4059 / (646) 242-1807
Joint Secretary: THOMAS P.V.(914) 235-4440/(914) 924-2611
Joint Trustee:JOBBY JACOB (917) 439-1674
45 Westchester, St. Gregorios Church (Underhill)
Mailing Address:P.O. Box 378
Mt. Vernon, NY 1055
Church Address:
100 Underhill St
Yonkers, NY 10710
Phone:
Email:
contact@stgregorioswestchester.com
Website:
http://www.stgregorioswestchester.com/
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. N K. Ittanpilla
(845) 469 5850
Secretary:Mr. Zachariah George 845-624-3036
Jt. Secretary :Mr. K. M. Mathew 845-352-3941
Treasurer :Mr. Chacko T Easow 914-961-7424
Jt. Treasurer :Mr. Mathew K Rajan 914-968-1476
46. White Plains, St. Mary's Church
99 Park Ave
White Plains, NY 10603
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Paulose T. Peter
(516) 922 3127
47. Woodside, St. Baselios
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev.Fr.Zachariah Vallikolil,
6 Lynwood Drive,
Valley Stream,
NY 11580
516-728-2497
(516) 812 6161
48. Yonkers, St. Gregorios Church (Park Hill)
42 Park Hill Ave
Yonkers, NY 10701
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Rev. Fr. Ninan T. Easow
(718) 295 8289
49. Yonkers, St. Thomas Church
2 Riverview Place
Yonkers, NY 10701
Phone:
(914) 965 5586
Email:
Website:
Name:
Phone:
Mobile:
Very.Rev.Cherian Neelankal Chor-Eppiscopos,
72 Paddler Hill Road,
Munroe,
N.Y10950(R)
(845)783- 8355
Deacon
Rev. Dn Gregory Varghes
Diocesan Assembly
Usually held at least once a year, the vicars plus a proportionate number
of elected delegates from each parish are to attend this assembly which is
convened by the Diocesan Metropolitan to discuss matters concerning the
diocese, including the budget and accounts.
Diocesan
Council
According to the Constitution of the Malankara Orthodox Church, every
Diocese must have a Diocesan Council consisting of two Priests and four
laymen elected by the Diocesan Assembly.
The Diocesan Secretary serves as the secretary of
the council. One of the important functions of the council is to serve in
an advisory capacity to the Metropolitan for matters concerning the
administration of the Diocese.
The Council is to prepare the budget for the income and expenditure of the
Diocese which is to be approved by the Diocesan Assembly.
Diocesan Secretary
Rev. Fr. John Thomas
Council Members
Very Rev. Dr. P. S. Samuel Cor Episcopa
Very Rev. Fr. K. Mathai Cor Episcopa
Mr. Paul Karukapalli
Mr. John Isaac (Shibu)
Mr. Raju Philip
Mr. Sunil Kurian
Mr. Roy Ennacheril (Lay Trustee)
Mr. Thomas Paul (Diocesan Auditor)
Contact the Diocese Council at diocesancouncil@gmail.com.
Managing Committee
This committee consists of a small body of elected officials from each
Diocese (two priests and four lay people) to look into the financial and
other administrative matters concerning the Malankara Orthodox Church.
Other than the elected members, a proportionate number of members are
nominated to the Managing Committee by the Malankara Metropolitan. The
meetings take place in Kerala, India.
Managing Committee
Members
V. Rev. Dr. . Yohannan Sankarathil Cor-episcopa
Ph: 516 746 5086
Mob: 516 850 9213
Rev. Fr. Jacob Philip
Ph: 001 718 477 1723
Capt, Koshy Thomas
Ph: 001 718 464 4814
Mr. Philip George
Ph: 001 914 472 6235
Mr. Philipose Philip
Ph: 001 845 642 2060
001 845 268 9113
Dr. Zacharia Thomas
Ph: 001 8326439942
001 7133839942
Sunday School
The American Diocesan Sunday School is the primary educational ministry
for children from kindergarten through high school. The aim of the Sunday
School is for the catechesis of young people in preparation for a
fulfilling adult life in the Church.
Towards this end, the children are instructed on a Sunday to Sunday basis
in the life and teachings of the Orthodox Church. In addition, the Sunday
School administration runs annual Orthodox Vacation Bible School (OVBS)
programs on the local level.
While the syllabus and materials of the Sunday School is centralized for
the Diocese, local inspectors have been appointed for the distribution of
Diocesan materials as well as for the assurance of quality Christian
education.
Visit the Sunday School Web site for Exams, Competitions and OVBS
materials
Information is listed below:
Director: Rev. Fr. Dr. Raju Varghese
Secretary: Mr. Benny Varghese
Email:
BENVARGHE@cs.com
OVBS
Orthodox Vacation Bible School (OVBS) is a religious educational program
under the Sunday School Association of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian
Church.
The theme and general guidelines established by the Central Office in
Kottayam, Kerala, India are followed. The program is structured to
encourage children to worship, learn, and grow in their spiritual lives.
Children enjoy OVBS, learn many valuable lessons, and look forward to the
following year’s OVBS.
A major focus in the American Diocese is on Christian education using
exciting and innovative approaches that make the sessions both fun and
educational. Due to language and cultural differences, the American
Diocese produces its own textbooks, song CD, and arts/crafts guide.
Children who attend OVBS receive a certificate with the signature of the
Diocesan Metropolitans.
Contact Information:
OVBS Director: Rev. Dn. Gregory Varghese
Email:ovbs_america@yahoo.com
Web site: http://www.indianorthodoxsundayschool.org/user/Ovbs.aspx
The 2009 OVBS Theme is “‘The Lord is near to all who call upon him”
(Psalms 145:18).
Previous Theme:
The 2008 OVBS Theme is “God who Heals!” (Psalms 103:3).
MGOCSM
The Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Student Movement (MGOCSM) is the
Christian student organization. The MGOCSM’s mission statement is worship,
study and service.
The 100th year anniversary of the MGOCSM was celebrated in 2008.
Since the inception of the American Diocese, the MGOCSM has played a vital
role in the lives of middle-school, high-school and college students
alike.
MGOCSM regions exist in the major areas within the United States;
Baltimore, Boston, California, Chicago,Dallas, Florida, Houston, St.
Louis, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, San Antonio,
Virginia and Washington D.C.
Various programs and retreats are coordinated by the regional leaders of
the MGOCSM to teach the youth about the Orthodox Faith and Church
practices.
His Grace Mathews Mar Barnabas has appointed Rev. Dn. Gheevarghese John to
serve as the General Secretary for the years 2009 to 2011.
Mr. Joel Mathew was elected by the MGOCSM delegates as the General
Treasurer.
2009 is being called “The Year of Revival”, with a powerful mission
statement that empowers a generation for Christ: “MGOCSM, Igniting revival
in the church through worship, study and service.”
The mission of MGOCSM strives to regenerate the hearts and minds of the
Indian Orthodox youth to live for Christ in the manner of the apostolic
teaching passed down by the Holy Fathers of the Orthodox Church.
Leadership Camp
The MGOCSM Leadership Camp is hosted by the Mar Gregorios Orthodox
Christian Student Movement (MGOCSM), the youth organization of the Indian
Orthodox Church.
The Leadership Camp is a time for the youth:
to come together;
to learn from each other;
to pray together;
and to rise as leaders within their parishes.
Student leaders from parishes across the United States are selected and
sent to attend an annual four day camp.
The 2009 Leadership Camp will be held in Altanta, Georgia. The theme will
be “Unity.”
To be part of this experience, contact your MGOCSM Representatives.
To learn more about the Atlanta Leadership Camp
Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry is a pastoral ministry focused toward our students who
study in colleges and universities, and other educational institutions.
The goal and scope of this ministry is the spiritual progress and devotion
of our students in various campuses.
This ministry has established Orthodox Study Fellowships (OSF) at many
campuses, which our students gather together in Christian Fellowship to
learn more about our faith, study scripture, and participate/partake in
Holy Qurbana- which have truly blessed our students studying in far
places, where there are no Indian Orthodox Churches, or any other Orthodox
Churches.
Objectives include:
To bring our youngsters into main stream religious life and to maintain
their active involvement in our church.
To provide them with deeper understanding and awareness of our faith,
traditions and practices.
To enhance Bible Study and to develop personal devotional practices and
prayer.
To develop and promote a stable and fruitful spiritual life with a
commitment to Christ and His Church and participation in the mission of
charity.
To promote friendship and bonding among the members.
To initiate and maintain spiritual counseling with problem solving in
everyday life.
To assist them in setting up appropriate educational objectives and
programs of study.
To assist with any needed help in financial planning.
Contact Information:
North East Region
Very Rev. Fr. Cherian Neelankal Chor Episcopos
Regional Director of Campus Ministry
Email: Cherian@frontiernet.net
Rev. Dn. Daniel Mathai
Secretary of Campus Ministry
Email: DOOLEY1112@aol.com
Southern Region
Rev. Fr. Mammen Mathew
Regional Director of Campus Ministry
Missions Trip
MGOCSM’s motto is worship, study and service. The MGOCSM concentrates on
the service component through mission trips.
The MGOCSM of the American Diocese is organizing its fifth annual Mission
Trip for 2009. After the four successful mission trips to India, this
year’s trip will be done locally, with a focus on helping families in the
United States who are facing various struggles in their lives.
Many individuals from low-income families and broken families are facing
adverse circumstances such as natural calamities and are lacking even in
the very basic necessities of life, such as food and shelter. With the
ever-growing need, we have decided to organize two domestic mission trips
this year.
FOCUS
FOCUS is a spiritual organization that caters to the spiritual
needs of the older youth in the American Diocese.
Officially established by the Diocesan Metropolitan’s Kalpana in September
of 2005, it has slowly begun to take root in many of the diocese’s major
cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Dallas, Chicago, and Houston. We
are working hard to establish units in many other places so that young
professionals and couples over the age of 23 can come together for
spiritual growth and renewal.
Goals include:
To provide spiritual enrichment for young adults and couples via prayer
meetings, Bible studies, counseling sessions led by trained professionals,
etc.
To train young adults to be active in the administration and activities on
the parish level.
To use the skills and experience of young adults to provide a support
system for the young people of our church via Sunday School, MGOCSM, and
OVBS.
To identify and bring back young adults who have left the church for
various reasons, and provide them with a way into the Christian community.
Faith Series
The highlight of 2008 has been the ‘Faith Series’. The Faith Series is a
monthly 2-hour seminar intended to teach and discuss topics that are
important to our Indian Orthodox Faith.
Topics discussed are:
Indian Church History
Our Creed
The Holy Trinity
Scripture & Holy Tradition
The Church’s Worship – The Sacraments
Prayer – Liturgical & Personal
Intercession & Prayers for the Departed
Life in the Church (The Precepts)
Contact Information
Tenny Thomas
Director of FOCUS
Email:
tenny.thomas@gmail.com
Marth Mariam Samajam
This is an organization of the women in the Malankara Orthodox Church, in
which all women in the American Diocese are members.
Presently more than three thousand women are participating in this
spiritual organization of whose Patron Saint is St. Mary the Blessed
Theotokos. The members of the Marth Mariam Samajam (St. Mary’s League)
faithfully promote the motto of this spiritual organization which is pray,
act, and shine not only in their respective parishes, but in their daily
lives. This spiritual ministry observes the Falling Asleep of St. Mary
(August 15) as “Samajam Day.”
Events
Every year the Women’s League conducts two main conferences which are the
Parents & Couples Conference and the Women’s Conference.
Aside from these conferences, the Samajam conducts special meetings and
bible studies/prayer meetings at various parishes in the Diocese. The
office bearers also play the role of visiting each parish and helping the
non existent/growing / present Women’s League in those respective parishes
every year.
Outreach
The Women’s League has been know:
to send financial aid to help fund the marriage expenses of poor women,
help fund hospital expenses for a sick person,
giving a substantial amount to aid five poor/sick families every year in
Kerala, India.
Indian Orthodox Christian Literary Forum
The purpose and the mission of Indian Orthodox Christian Literary Forum (IOCLF):
To discover Indian Orthodox Christians, in the USA, who have literary and
artistic talents and encourage them to expose their abilities. Encourage
them to contribute their talents for the benefit of American Diocese and
the Church as a whole.
To conduct, outreach to talented people, especially, youngsters and
develop a coordinated effort with the known mainstream literary people.
Coordinate the literary talented individuals and involve them in the
spiritual activities, including but not limited to the worship, study,
service and teaching.
Coordinate the literary talented individuals and encourage them to develop
a creative writing method that focuses on spreading the Word of God.
To develop an incentive program to get more people to focus on the
teaching of Orthodox Christian faith and beliefs.
Contact Information:
Varghese Pothanicad (Forum Coordinator)
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"To err is human and to forgive is divine" "Please forgive...!!!
May Almighty God Bless You all Fr. Johnson Punchakonam
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