PARISH HERALD. April - June Website:

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1 PARISH HERALD April - June 2016 Rev. Dr. Alex Thomas (Vicar) No. 2, Banaswadi Road, Bengaluru Tel: (Res.), (Office) Mob: athomasachen@gmail.com Rev. Liju John (Asst. Vicar) Flat No. 102, Sri Narida Apt., Bens Satya Enclave, Geddelahalli, Hennur Main Road, Bengaluru Mob: lijuachen@gmail.com bemtchurch@gmail.com, parishherald@gmail.com Website: 1

2 From the Vicar s Desk... Dearly beloved in Christ, The Lenten season has been reminding us to be a redeemed community of Christ. We are liberated from the bondage of sin to a Christ-centered life. We are reminded to follow Jesus Christ by taking the Cross and to lead the life of the Crucified Christ. We are also recollecting the events related to the resurrection of our Lord. Death is remembered as a threat the power opposed to God from whose clutches God has provided rescue. God s deliverance from death is the major theme of Resurrection of Jesus Christ and hence the hope of every human being. Resurrection of Jesus also creates a community, an inclusive new family, a new relatedness for mutual support in a time of various trials. The beginning chapters of the Acts of the Apostles unfold the formation of such a community, the close continuity between the risen Jesus and the emerging church. Since we are all incorporated into this new family through baptism, our goal should be of becoming a caring, sharing, forgiving and a loving community. I take this opportunity to thank the out-going executive committee and to welcome the new committee. I thank you all for your whole-hearted support to the parish activities, and the increased involvement in the Sunday worship services. I also thank you for your generous financial support to the activities of the parish as well as the mission fields. May God bless you all to continue the Mission of God that is entrusted to us. Alex Achen 28th March,

3 OUR WORSHIP SCHEDULE Holy Qurbana 7.00 a.m Holy Qurbana 9.30 a.m 1 st Sunday STC (Mal) Parish (Mal) 2 nd Sunday Parish (Eng) Parish (Mal) St. Mary's School (Mal) at 8 a.m. 3 rd Sunday STC (Mal) Parish (Eng) 4 th Sunday Parish (Eng) Parish (Mal) St. Mary's School (Mal) at 8 a.m. 5 th Sunday... Parish (Divine Service Mal) SUNDAY SCHOOL Parish : Every Sunday at 8.15 a.m. STC : Every Sunday at 7.30 a.m. except on 1 st & 3 rd Sunday at 8.30 a.m. EDAVAKA MISSION Intercessory Prayer : Every Wednesday at a.m. at Church Swanthana & Palana Fellowship & House Visit : Every Friday at a.m. onwards Bible Study : Every Thursday at 4.15 p.m. at Church Sunday YUVAJANA SAKHYAM : After 9.30 a.m. Holy Communion CHOIR Saturday: Choir practice session in the Church during evening. SEVIKA SANGAM Every Friday at 4.00 p.m. TRUSTEES '17 Finance : Mr. Mathew Varughese Mob: Accounts : Mr. George Verghese Mob:

4 WORSHIP SERVICE SCHEDULE Date Service Assisted by Read by Reading 2016 Less. 1&2 Apr. 3 Gen. 28 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) John Philip (E1) Shiji Varghese (F) Acts. 20 : 7-12 (St. Thomas Centre) Thankachen (E1) Sara Kurien (E1) Epistle 1 Thes. 1 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Manoj Oommen (E2) Anu Mary Chacko (A) Gospel (Church) George Varghese (UTC) Thomas Joseph (A) St. Joh 20:24-29 Less. 1&2 Apr. 10 2Chro. 34 : am Holy Communion (Eng.) Melvin Mathew Alex Kavya Acts. 8 : (Church) Reuben Varghese Lincoln Epistle Phil.1 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Shiji Varghese (F) Rani Mathew (F) (St. Mary's School) Binoy Abraham (F) Kurian Varghese (F) Gospel 9.30 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Alex Kurian (A) Annamma Varghese (E1) St. Luke 24 : 13 - (Church) Cherian K.M. (C) Ashok David Jose (E1) 27 Less. 1&2 Apr. 17 Jer. 1 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Varghese K.J. (F) Moncy John Philip (E1) 1 Tim. 4 : 6-16 (St. Thomas Centre) Alex Kurian (A) Diya Miriam Kurien (E1) Epistle 2 Tim. 2 : am Holy Communion (Eng.) Nishu Alex Kurian Bhavana Gospel (Church) Chris John Thomas (D) Lincoln St. John 20:19-23 Less. 1&2 Apr. 24 Exo. 34 : am Holy Communion (Engl.) Ani Alex (A) Gifty Ephe. 4 : (Church) Reuben Varghese Melvin 8 am Holy Communion (Mal.) K. J. Varghese (F) Shiney Ninan (F) (St. Mary's School) Biju Thomas Mani K. Abraham (F) 4 Epistle 2 John : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Alex Kurian (A) Rachel Abraham Sam(A) Gospel (Church) N. T. Easo (A) Akash Thomas Jose (E1) St. John 17 : 1-6 Less. 1&2 May 1 BHOOBHAVANA DHANAM Lev. 25 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Aju Philip (F) Shine C. Simmy (E1) Acts. 7 : (St. Thomas Centre) Thankachen (E1) Prabha Shiji (F) Epistle Gal. 4 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Alex Kurian (A) Selin Maria Thomas (E1) Gospel (Church) Biju Varghese (C) Shiju Alex (A) St. Mat. 28:16-20 Less. 1&2 May 8 7 am Holy Communion (Eng.) Melvin Mathew Keziah Eze. 36 :24 36 Rom. 8 : (Church) Chris Joel (E1) Moncy Epistle 8 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Ninan M.K. Thomas Cherian (F) Acts. 1 : (St. Mary's School) Mani K. Abraham (F) Jyothi Sara Kurien (F) 9.30 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Alex Kurian (A) Reny Sara (A) Gospel (Church) John Thomas I (B) Liju Abraham Jacob (A) St. John 14 : 25-31

5 WORSHIP SERVICE SCHEDULE Date Service Assisted by Read by Reading 2016 Less. 1&2 May 15 PENTECOST NJAYAR Isa. 6 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) John Philip (E1) Thankachen (E1) Acts. 2 : 1-13 (St. Thomas Centre) Alex Kurian (A) Merlin Koshy (E2) Epistle Rom. 8 : am Holy Communion (Eng.) Nishu Alex Kurian (A) Jincy Gospel (Church) Chris John Thomas (D) Reuben St. John 16:6-16 May 22 Less. 1&2 7 am Holy Communion (Eng.) Ani Alex (A) Chinnu Gen. 18 :1 15 (Church) Reuben Varghese (F) Jibin 1 John 5 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Shiji Varghese (F) Reeja Sunil (F) Epistle 9.30 am (St. Mary's School) Holy Communion (Mal.) Roby T. Mathew (F) Abraham Sam (A) Godly Abraham (F) Priya Alex (D) 2 Cor. 13 : (Church) Kunjuvarghese (A) Rajan Varghese (D) Gospel St. Mark 1 : 1-11 May 29 Less. 1&2 1 Kings. 8:26 43 Bhavana Rev. 14 : 1-7 Epistle 9.30 am Divine Service Melvin Mathew Lincoln (Church) Jibin Gospel June 5 Less. 1&2 7 am Holy Communion (Mal.) John Philip (E1) Shiji Varghese (F) 1 Kings. 3 : 3 14 (St. Thomas Centre) Thankachen (E1) Bindu Sajay (F) 1 Cor. 1 : Epistle 9.30 am Holy Communion (Mal.) (Church) Alex Kurian (A) Sonu Varghese (E1) Sindu John Thomas (E1) 1 John. 5 : Ashish George (E1) Gospel St. Luke 2:41-52 June 12 Less. 1&2 Gen. 2 :1 17 Rev. 21 : am Holy Communion (Eng.) Reuben Varghese Litty (Church) Chris Joel (E1) Jibin 8 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Cherian Thomas Jr. (F) Raji Abraham (F) Epistle (St. Mary's School) Kurian Varghese (F) John Mathew (F) 9.30 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Abraham Sam (E1) Saramma Thomas (C) (Church) Biju Varghese (C) Thomas K.C. Lt. Col.(A) Gospel 7 am Holy Communion (Mal.) Varghese K.J. (F) Kurien John (E1) (St. Thomas Centre) John Philip (E1) Suja Jose Panakkal (E1) Epistle 9.30 am Holy Communion (Eng.) (Church) Ani Alex (A) Sonu Varghese (E1) Keziah Manoj Rom. 12 : 3-8 Gospel St. Luke 5:1 11 June 26 Less. 1&2 7 am Holy Communion (Eng.) Melvin Mathew Alex Kavya Gen. 35 :1 7 (Church) Jibin Lincoln 1 Peter. 5 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Ninan M.K. Vincy Biju Epistle (St. Mary's School) Varghese K.M. (F) Mani K. Abraham (F) 1 John 4 : am Holy Communion (Mal.) Alex Kurian (A) Reena Jose (E1) (Church) N.T. Easo (A) Boby Jacob (E2) Gospel 5 Col. 1 : St. Mat. 6:25-34 June 19 Less. 1&2 1Kings. 19:15-21 Rom. 15 : St. John 10:1 6

6 COTTAGE PRAYERS GROUP - A Apr pm Mr. Thomas Mathai 10/7, Chinnappa Layout, 1st Cross, Opp. Sathya Hosp. Kammanahalli Main Rd. Tel , Apr pm Mr. Sujith Koshy 218, Antonite, Kammanahalli Main Rd., HRBR Layout, 3rd Block, Kalyan Nagar, Tel , May 15 6 pm Mr. John K. Thomas Bethenya, No. 36, 13th Cross,Mangala Layout, Oil Mill Road. Tel: May 22 6 pm Mr. George Mathew 158/174/1, 4th A-Cross, II Block, HRBR Thondapurathu Layout, Kalyan Nagar P.O, Tel: May 29 6 pm Mr. Renin Raj No. 3, KKM Residency, Ullasappa Road, Kammanahalli Tel: , June 5 6 pm Mr. Varghese L-247, Sena Vihar, Kammanahally N. M. Lt. Col. (Retd.) Main Road, Kalyan Nagar P.O., Tel: , June 19 6 pm Mr. Thomas H.No.59, K.K. Villa, Sena Vihar, K.C. Lt. Col. (Retd.) Kammanahalli Main Rd., Tel: , To be announced later GROUP - B GROUP - C Apr pm Mr. Mani P. 26, High Street, Cooke Town, Benjamin Tel: May pm Mr. George Thomas 49, D'Costa Layout, Cooke Town Tel: Jun pm Mr. Joseph P.D. 1407, Hennur Main Road, India Campus Crusade for Christ. Tel:

7 GROUP - D Apr pm Mr. Varghese M.O. 23/2, 1st Main Road, Chinnappa Garden, Benson Town, Tel: , May 22 5 pm Mr. Aju Varghese Deepti Residency, 3rd A Main Road, Ratan Singh Layout, Kavalbyrasandra, Near Ambedkar College, R. T. Nagar, Tel: , GROUP - E1 Apr. 3 5 pm Mrs. Valsamma No. 523, Annaiah Reddy Layout, Mathew Banaswadi, Bangalore Tel: , Apr pm Mr. Sunil No. 18, Income Tax Colony, Abraham Lt. Col. Sadanand Nagar, Indira Nagar P.O. Tel Apr pm Mr. Mathew K.M. V. V. Emarald Apt., 4A, 4th Floor, 22, 2nd Crs, 7th Main, Chikkananjudappa Reddy Layout, Agra Road, Babusapalya, Kalyan Nagar P.O. Tel: , May 15 6 pm Mrs. Anita Mathew 231, 10th B Main HRBR Layout, Kalyan Nagar, 1st Block, Tel: May 22 5 pm Mrs. Mariamma Perumpoikayil House, Chinnamma Philip Garden, Subbayanapalaya, M.S.Nagar P.O. Tel June 12 5 pm Mr. Anoop Varghese F-306, SMR Castle, Dodda Banaswadi Main Road, Tel: To be announced later GROUP - E2 GROUP - F ( Hennur - Kothannur Group ) May pm Mr. Sonney George #7, Balaji Layout, Kothannur, Mathew Tel: May 22 6 pm Mr.Varghese Samuel Christ Layout, Vaddera Palaya, (special prayer) Carol Service June 5 6 pm Mr. John M.P. No.141, Kaveri Nagar, Agara Main Road, Opp. D.J.Farm, Hormavu P.O., (special prayer) June pm Mr. Shiji Varghese No. 27, SOLI DEO GLORIA, 7th Cross, Near A.K.R. School, Horamavu, Agara Post, Tel: ,

8 SENIOR CITIZENS COLUMN Hcp Ipdn- Sn kw`hw CXp kxy-am-sw v Dd- n- p-]-d-bm³ asn-bp- v. Bdc ]Xn-äm- p-iä p-ap¼v sslkviqfnâ t^mà v t^manâ ]Tn- p Imew. \mev]xv Ip«n-IÄ. AXn-semcp Ipdp- v. BÄ ImgvN-bn Hcp aã-\m-wv. icn pw Hcp _pån. {]mb- nâ Ihnª hfà. Bscbpw IqkmsX, Btcbpw shãp-hn-fn- p apj-`m-hw. Nndn Aev]w tim«n ]pñ-`m-h- nâ! Ipdp- nsâ Ccn- nsw F\n p t\sc ]pd-inâ. A²ym-]-I³ ]Tn- n- p- -sxm pw {i²n- msx ap nepw ]pd- Inepw ASp- p-an-cn- p Ip«n-Isf txm pw. Xncnªp-t\m- pt¼mä Ah-s\m- p-a-dn-bm `mh- nâ! Hcp-Zn-hkw thsdmcp ]Wn ]än- p. Ahsâ ap nse UkvIv Fsâ ]pd- p-sxm-sp `mk- -fnâ Imcy-ambn ajn ]pc-«n-h- p. A p Rm³ [cn- n-cp- Xv Hcp shå jà«m-bn-cp- p. ajn A mss Fsâ jà«nâ! ASp- n-cp Ip«n-IÄ Nncn-bm-bn. Imcy-a-dn-ªXpw Rm³ A²ym-]-Isâ ASp v ]cm-xn-s -«p. sxm n-bmbn ajn km n. A²ym-]-I\v Acn-i-am-bn. Ipdp- ns\ in n- p. NqcÂ{]- tbm-kw. ASp- -Zn-hkw Ah\v ]pxn-sbmcp ]cn-]m-sn. Rm³ Ccn- n-s- nâ Ccn- p- -Xn\v ap¼mbn Ah³ sukviv ]n n-te v ]nsn- n«v Rm\n-cp tijw Ah³ sukviv hn«p. AXp iànbmbn h v Fsâ ]pd- n-sn- p. \à thz-\. ]cn-kcw ad v Rm³ {]Xn-I-cn- p. FSm ]...-tam-t\. \ns Rm\n p ImWn-t - m-sa-sm. mêp apgp-h³ ti«p. A²ym]-I³ CS-s]-«p. sxm nbpw km nbpw axn-bmb sxfn-hp-an-ã. AXn-\m {]Xnsb shdp-sxhn-«p. CtX mênâ Fsâ ]nxr-k-tlm-z-csâ ]p{x³... Fsâ {]mbw. AXn-tesd R -f-sp kvt\ln-x-cpw. A v D -k-abw Cu kw`hw Rm³ Ah-t\mSp ]d-ªp. cà-_-ôw, IpSpw-_-_Ôw FÃmw-IqSn Ah-\n Xnf- p. Aan-X-t m`w Df-hm n Ft msp ]d-ªp. ""FSm, Ahs\ C p-xs Hcp ]mtw ]Tn- n- -Ww, Ahs\ shdpsx hn«p-iq-sm. Rm³ ]d-bp- Xv \o {i²n- p-ti«p {]hà n- -Ww. \mepawn v FÃm-hcpw kviqä hn«p-t]m-ip-t¼mä \o Ahsâ ASp- p-sn v t]mcp-ambn Nndªv Nndªv \nev - Ww. X Ww Rm³ ]n nâ\n v Ahs\ Hcp hsw h v si«nb amxncn AS- s\ ]nsn- pw. \o ap n-te v h v apjmapjw \n psim v ssi n \nhà n Ahsâ apj- -Sn- -Ww. I pw 8 Koshy Thomas

9 aq pw snhnbpw H pw t\m msx apja-s v ASn- -Ww. ASn F p-]-d-ªmâ icn- pw \o kàæ-i-ànbpw kam-l-cn v ]S ]Sm ]S ]Sm F v \nà m-sx. kàæ-iàn AXn-io-{L-am-bn-cn- -Ww. CXn\v Hm -td-j³ Ipdp v F v t]cn-s-ww. Ah\v IpX-dp-hm³ iàn-bnãm F v txm p- -Xp-hsc ASn XpSÀ p. ]nsn hn«v ASn \nà n. Ipdp- v t\sc \nev m³ h msx {]m n {]m n \S- pt]m-bn. R fpw io{lw Øew hn«p. A p sship-t cw \S- - sxãmw HmÀ v Rmt\sd Akz-Ø-\m-bn. Nn -IÄ... Ipdp- n-s\ p kw`-hn p? AXp-aà ASp Znhkw Ahsâ {]Xn-I-cWw F m-bn-cn pw? Dd w sisp- p Nn - IÄ. sndn-b ab- - n-em-b-t mä `oxn \ndª Zpxkz-]v\- Ä. GXm-bmepw ASp Znhkw R Ä mên-se- n. A v Ipdp v mênâ h n-ã. Fsâ kwi-b- Ä Gsd-bm-bn. GXm-bmepw aq mw-zn-hkw Ah³ mên-se- n. DXvI-WvT-tbmsS Rm\-hs\ ]pdw-xn-cn-ªp-t\m- n. apjw-x-cmsx Ah³ sh«n- p. H pw kwkmcn- n-ã. ]n o-ssm-cn- epw! Ah-\m-fmsI amdn-t m-bn. GtXm am\-kn-i-]-cn-hà \w h Xc- nâ. Gsd kuay-\m-bn-sb p txm n. Ahsâ kpjt -Sn\v Ipdn acp v Gähpw ^e-{]-z-ambn I p. B acp- nsâ "Ipdn- Sn' R Ä a\-ênâ kq n p. c p-amkw Ignªv a²y-th-\â Ah-[n- m-e-am-bn. Fsâ aq ktlm-z-co-ip-spw_w simã- v. Ah-[n- mew sne-h-gn- m- \mbn Rm\-hnsS t]mbn. Fsâ {]mb- n-epå Gsd kplr- p- -f-hn-ss-bp- v. A s lcw Im - p-i-fn-bm-bn-cp- p. ASp sslkviqä {Ku nâ Iq«p-Im-cp-sam v Ifn- p-am-bn-cp- p. adp-hi v X -tècn `mk- p-\n p h GXm\pw Ip«n-IÄ. AXn aq p \mev Bwt m-þ-c- y³kv. AXn amà«n³ AXn-hn-cp-X³. ] p-ambn apt -dn-bmâ adp-]- - n\v tkmäh-ebw Ipep- pw. AXv A -«m-wv. R fpss Iq«- n-semcp Ipkr-Xn- - ³ amà«ns\ ImWp-t¼mÄ XpS n Ip n- p n ]cn-l-kn- pw. amà«n³ ] pambn apt -dp kabw Ch³ Ahsâ ]n mse ]mªp-sn v Ahsâ ]rjvs-`m-k v Hcp sxmgn. amà«n\v thz\ txm n-bxp Xs -b-ã, A[nIw p`n-x-\mbn Xncn-ªp-\n v Ahsâ Ic-W- n-s\m-c-sn. Ch³ Xncn- -Sn- p. aev]n-sp- -am-bn. FÃm-hcpw HmSn- qsn c p-t]-scbpw ]nsn- p-am-än. t m`w amdmsx amà«n³ Cw ojv-þ-a-e-bmfw {]mtz-in-i-ssi-en-bnâ C{]-Imcw ]d-ªp. ""»Un dmkviâ, tum v hm v, tum v hm v Xn nwkv þss w-]nwkv Hm ssa sluv''. ip²-a-e-bm-f- nâ ]d-ªmâ "FSm t]m ncn ss]te, th... th F p Icp-Xp-t mdpw Fsâ Xe-bn Ibdn \nc- p-t msm?' C{Xbpw I p-\n Rms\sâ a\-ênâ ]gb B acp- nsâ "Ipdn- Sn' HmÀ½ h p. *** 9

10 EXTRACTS FROM MEMOIRS OF CLAUDIUS BUCHANAN. 10 Contributed by George E. Mathew Rev Claudius Buchanan DD FRSE (12 March February 1815) was a Scottish theologian, an ordained minister of the Church of England, and an evangelical missionary for the Church Missionary Society. PALACE OF TRAVANCORE, Oct. 19, I have been now a week at the palace of Trivanduram, where the rajah resides. A letter of introduction from Lieut. Colonel Macaulay, the British resident at Travancore, procured me a proper reception. At my first audience his highness was very inquisitive as to the objects of my journey. As I had servants with me of different casts and languages, it was very easy for the Brahmins to discover every particular they might wish to know in regard to my profession, pursuits, and manner of life. When I told the rajah that the Syrian Christians were supposed to be of the same religion with the English, he said he thought that could not be the case, else he must have heard it before ; if however it was so, he considered my desire to visit them as being very reasonable. I assured his highness that their Shaster and ours was the same, and showed him a Syriac New Testament which I had at hand. The book being bound and gilt after the European manner, the rajah shook his head and said he was sure there was not a native in his dominions who could read that book. I observed that this would be proved in a few days. The dewan (or prime minister) thought the character something like what he had seen sometimes in the houses of the Sooriani. The rajah said he would afford me every facility for my journey in his power. He put an emerald ring on my finger, as a mark of his friendship, and to secure me respect in passing through his country; and he directed his dewan to send proper persons with me as guides. I requested that the rajah would be pleased to present a catalogue of all the Hindoo manuscripts in the temples of Travancore to the college of Fort William in Bengal. The Brahmins were very averse to this; but when I showed the rajah the catalogues of the books in the temples of Tanjore given by the rajah of Tanjore, and those of the temple of Ramisseram, given me by order of the rannie (or queen) of Ramnad ; he desired it might be done : and orders have been sent to the Hindoo college of Trichoor for that purpose. * (* These three catalogues, together with that of the rajah of Cochin, which the author procured afterwards, are now deposited in the college of Fort William, and probably contain all the Hindoo literature of the south of India.) CHINGANOOR, a Church of the Syrian Christians, Nov. 10, From the palace of Travancore I proceeded to Mavely-car, and thence to the hills at the bottom of the high ghauts which divide the Carnatic from Malay-ala. The face of the

11 country in general, in the vicinity of the mountains, exhibits a varied scene of hill and dale and winding streams. These streams fall from the mountains and preserve the vallies in perpetual verdure. The woods produce pepper, cardamoms, and cassia, or common cinnamon; also frankincense and other aromatic gums. What adds much to the grandeur of the scenery in this country is, that the adjacent mountains of Travancore are not barren, but covered with forests of teak wood the Indian oak, producing, it is said, the largest timber in the world. The first view of the Christian churches in this sequestered region of Hindostan, connected with the idea of their tranquil duration for so many ages, cannot fail to excite pleasing emotions in the mind of the beholder. The form of the oldest buildings is not unlike that of some of the old parish churches in England ; the style of building in both being of Saracenic origin. They have sloping roofs, pointed arch windows, and buttresses supporting the walls. The beams of the roof being exposed to view are ornamented, and the ceiling of the choir and altar is circular and fretted. In the cathedral churches the shrines of the deceased bishops are placed on each side of the altar. Most of the churches are built of a reddish stone, squared and polished at the quarry and are of durable construction, the front wall of the largest edifices being six feet thick. The bells of the churches are cast in the founderies of the country ; some of them are of large dimensions, and have inscriptions in Syriac and Malay-alim. In approaching a town in the evening, I once heard the sound of the bells among the hills ; a circumstance which made me forget for a moment that I was in Hindostan, and reminded me of another country. The first Syrian church which 1 saw was at Mavely-car : but the Syrians here are in the vicinity of the Romish Christians, and are not so simple in their manners as those nearer the mountains. They had been often visited by Romish emissaries in former times : and they at first suspected that I belonged to that communion. They had heard of the English, but strangely supposed that they belonged to the church of the pope in the West. They had been so little accustomed to see a friend, that they could not believe that I was come with any friendly purpose. Added to this, 1 had some discussions with a most intelligent priest in regard to the original language of the four Gospels, which he maintained to be Syriac ; and they suspected, from the complexion of my argument, that I wished to weaken, the evidences for their antiquity.* Soon however the gloom and suspicion subsided ; they gave me the right hand of fellowship in the primitive manner ; and one of their number was deputed to accompany me to the churches in the interior. When we were approaching the church of Chinganoor, we met one of the cassanars, or Syrian clergy. He was dressed in a white loose vestment with a cap of red silk hanging down behind. Being informed who he was, I said to him in the Syriac language, Peace be unto you. He was surprised at the salutation ; but immediately answered, The God of peace be with you. He accosted the rajah s servants in the language of the country to know who I was ; and immediately returned to the village to announce our approach. When we arrived I was received at the door of the church by three kasheeshas, that is 11

12 presbyters, or priests, who were habited in like manner in white vestments. Their names were Jesu, Zecharias, and Urias, which they wrote down in my journal, each of them adding to his name the title of KASHEESHA. There were also present two SHUMSHANAS, or deacons. The elder priest was a very intelligent man, of reverend appearance, having a long white beard, and of an affable and engaging deportment. The three principal Christians or lay elders belonging to the church were named Abraham, Thomas, and Alexandros. After some conversation with my attendants they received me with confidence and affection; and the people of the neighboring villages came round, women as well as men. The sight of the women assured me that I was once more (after a long absence from England) in a Christian country. For the Hindoo women, and the Mohammedan women, and in short all women who are not Christians, are accounted by the men an inferior race; and, in general, are confined to the house for life, like irrational creatures. In every countenance now before me I thought I could discover the intelligence of Christianity. But at the same time I perceived, all around, symptoms of poverty and political depression. In the churches and in the people there was the air of fallen greatness. I said to the senior priest, You appear to me like a people who have known better days. It is even so, said he ; we are in a degenerate state compared with our forefathers. He noticed that there were two causes of their present decay, About three hundred years ago an enemy came from the West bearing the name of Christ, but armed with the inquisition, and compelled us to seek the protection of the native princes. And the native princes have kept us in a state of depression ever since. They indeed recognize our ancient personal privileges, for we rank in general next to the nairs, the nobility of the country ; but they have encroached by degrees on our property, till we have been reduced to the humble state in which you find us. The glory of our church has passed away ; but we hope your nation will revive it again. I observed that the glory of a church could never die, if it preserved the Bible. We have preserved the Bible, said he ; the Hindoo princes never touched our liberty of conscience. We were formerly on a footing with them in political power; and they respect our religion. We have also converts from time to time ; but in this Christian duty we are not so active as we once were : besides, it is not so creditable now to become Christian in our low estate. He then pointed out to me a Namboory Brahmin, (that is, a Brahmin of the highest cast,) who had lately become a Christian, and assumed the white vestment of a Syrian priest. The learning too of the Bible, he added, is in a low state amongst us. Our copies are few in number, and that number is diminishing instead of increasing ; and the writing out a whole copy of the sacred Scriptures is a great labor where there is no profit and little piety. I then produced a printed copy of the Syriac New Testament. There was not one of them who had ever seen a printed copy before. They admired it much ; and every priest, as it came into his hands, began to read a portion, which he did fluently, while the women came around to hear. 12

13 I asked the old priest whether I should send them some copies from Europe. They would be worth their weight in silver, said he. He asked me whether the Old Testament was printed in Syriac as well as the New. I told him it was, but I had not a copy. They professed an earnest desire to obtain some copies of the whole Syriac Bible, and asked whether it would be practicable to obtain one copy for every church. I must confess to you, said Zecharias, that we have very few copies of the prophetical Scriptures in the church. Our church languishes for want of the Scriptures. But he added, the language that is most in use among the people is the Malayalim, (or Malabar,) the vernacular language of the country. The Syriac is now only the learned language and the language of the church: but we generally expound the Scriptures to the people in the vernacular tongue. I then entered on the subject of the translation of the Scriptures. He said c a version could be made with critical accuracy; for there were many of the Syrian clergy who were perfect masters of both languages, having spoken them from their infancy. But, said he, our bishop will rejoice to see you, and to discourse with you on this and other subjects. I told them that if a translation could be prepared, I should be able to get it printed, and distribute copies among their fifty-five churches at a small price. That indeed would give joy, said old Abraham. There was here a murmur of satisfaction among the people. If I understand you right, said I, the greatest blessing the English church can bestow upon you is the Bible. It is so, said he. And what is the next greatest? said I. Some freedom and personal consequence as a people : by which he meant political liberty. We are here in bondage like Israel in Egypt. I observed that the English nation would doubtless recognize a nation of fellow-christians, and would be happy to interest itself in their behalf as far as our political relation with the prince of the country would permit. They wished to know what were the principles of the English government, civil and religious. I answered that our government might be said to be founded generally on the principles of the Bible. Ah, said old Zecharias, that must be a glorious government which is founded on the principles of the Bible. The priests then desired I would give them some account of the history of the English nation, and of our secession from their enemy the church of Rome. And in return I requested they would give me some account of their history. My communications with the Syrians are rendered very easy, by means of an interpreter whom I brought with me all the way from the Tanjore country. He is a Hindoo by descent, but is an intelligent Christian, and was -a pupil and catechist of the late Mr. Swartz. The Rev. Mr. Kohloff recommended him to me. He formerly lived in Travancore, and is well acquainted with the vernacular tongue. He also reads and writes English very well, and is as much interested in favor of the Syrian Christians as I myself. Besides Mr. Swartz s catechist, there are two natives of Travancore here who speak the Hindostanee language, which is familiar to me. My knowledge of the Syriac is sufficient to refer to texts of Scripture ; but I do not well understand the pronunciation of the Syrians. I hope to be better acquainted with their language before I leave the country. *** 13

14 AT THE CORNERS OF THE WAY Lt Col (Retd) Thomas Varghese Grrrr! Grrrr! rang the bell. Vallyamachi (hereafter Ammachy) tip toed towards the door as though she was anxiously waiting for someone. As soon as the door opened there she saw her granddaughter (Anna - officially Anna Varghese) about to step in with lot of carry bags in her hand. Grandma gave a smile, while looking at the antique clock, with her eye brows bit raised, which was promptly acknowledged by the young lady hugging Ammachy tight. Pointing towards a corner, Ammacy told, Mole, dump all these at that corner, have a quick shower, we will have your favourite Appam Stew, I have for you specially. Leaving all the stuff, Anna dashed towards the shower telling, Ammachy, you are great, my mouth was watering even in my flight this morning for that, I love you, my day is made! " Ammachy, (known as Mariam Ammachy to family), though in her mid seventies is so agile and alert that she could manage most of her things without much dependence, although she has an in-house maid (Kusum) to do cooking, housekeeping, and more importantly be a friend to her. She was a well known professor, a prolific writer and poet, with numerous awards to her credit, who lived in an academic climate all through in Delhi, now living in her ancestral home near the Arabian sea in Kerala, pursuing her pastimes besides Bible studies, and also contributing her writings for certain publications. Interestingly, she has been having a penchant for her pen, rather than a keyboard of a computer. She repeatedly asserts that a pen in her hand can be likened to a ballerina on the floor, and keyboard typing to a hip-hop dance. Strange, it may sound to many young people. Anna has followed her foot steps and has already earned a big name in the literary world, her book Uncertainty In Certainty, portraying human conflicts and contradictions even at the time of death, is a fictional nominee for this year s Booker prize. As a reader, you may have noticed Ammachy s use of that specific phrase at that corner. One always finds solace and solitude at a corner, even in busy places, because of the in-built security it offers, but one could get cornered too at places. A nook does provide coziness, but can be equally scary many a time. Just imagine our plight at a blind corner or in pitch darkness. Just as Ammachy was getting the dining table laid, Anna landed before her in a funny looking night wear, having motif of a monkey, reminding all that it is the year of the Monkey for the Chinese. Ammachy had a hearty laugh and said, I agree Anna that the present world is more of a monkey- land, particularly our country, and so I was bit worried because you have gone to the Lulu Mall on a week end and returned a bit late. I know you could take care of yourself well, for your trust in Jesus is unquestionable as David sang in Psalm 16 and 18. In our childhood, we only had small open markets working for half a day, except a few grocery, clothe, beedi and murukkan (pan) shops open till evening. There were no electric bulbs, we depended on God given solar lights for the day and kerosene lamps for the night. Usually, people came to the market with their fresh products, sold and went away in the afternoon. Though there was a hustle and bustle, the market went smoothly. Instead, what we see today are monster looking mammoth edifices where people of all walks of life move helter - skelter, which also harbours hordes of evils and devils, waiting to prowl upon the innocents and the gullible. I do like modern facilities, and view these developments as quintessential 14

15 elements of evolution. However, they add numerous dark corners on our way. Wisdom s clarion call signposts prudence and restraint, as Proverb tells us. You remember the verses of Psalms 59 and 10, though the evil doers are hiding at those dark corners, how amazingly we go unscathed most of the time, for our Lord deploy his Guardian Angels in place for our safe passage. Ammachy continued, you know the first short story I wrote while I was in tenth class, Me In The Market, about my first visit to the market with Appachen (father), where he had to bargain so much with those fisher women. And how the market went in to a stillness when Kochu- Thampuran ( Prince ) came in his horse cart, and the way the young fisherwoman ran with her best catch to his cart and got her day s money without any haggling, much to the envy of all others squatting dabbled in their histrionics. Anna, I know you are hungry, but make sure you tell me about your date with the Mall after our dinner, let me write a story on your Mall spree, which could be titled as You In The Mall, or We In The Mall. Sensing the nostalgia, Anna tried to change the topic by asking Ammachy what was she doing in her absence. She said, I was reading for some time, then meditating on Psalm 23 along with Kusum, and was praying for your safe return. What was the prayer for me?, asked Anna. To which Ammachy told, complementing the Lord s prayer, I have an equally powerful prayer, specially for all children of God for safeguards needed at the corners of the way. Ammachy opened her good old daily prayer book Springs in the Valley and asked, shall we say that prayer and grace together before supper? Of course Ammachy, I am with you, Anna replied. Ammachy started reading, This morning, Lord, I pray Safeguard us through the day, Especially at corners of the way. For when the way is straight, We fear no sudden fate, But see ahead the evenings open gate. But few and far between Are days when all is seen Of what will come, or yet of what has been. For unexpected things Swoop down on sudden wings And overthrow us with their buffetings. And so, dear Lord, we pray, Control and guard this day Thy children at the corners of the way. Meanwhile, Kusum was coming to the dining table with her lip smacking dishes, spreading aromatic smell all over. Ending the usual silence after an invigorating prayer, Anna said the grace in a heartwarming manner, Ammachy, I thank you so much for telling me what a tight corner means in our lives, and what a wonderful friend HE is to all of us. Thank you Lord for the sumptuous dinner before us.. May you bless all around, more so, the hand that made these scrumptious meals. Amen. No time lost, Appams vanished, chicken stew made its smooth flow down. Kusum cleared the table. Anna looked speechless for a while, and turning towards Ammachy and Kusum, she exclaimed, Oh! what a gastronomical treat and feat, real amazing grace!. Ammachy smiled, but Kusum looked foxed, though she seemed to have got a wing of it that it was all about her culinary expertise. Spontaneously, she quipped Thank you, Anna Mole, tell me what will you have for breakfast tomorrow? Many delicacies I have for you. Saying good-night to Kusum, Ammachy and Anna moved to the drawing room for their final tete-a-tete for the day, where Ammachy got her story line too. Sooner, hugging each other and saying good night, they retired to their beds. Courtsey : Springs In The Valley by Mrs Charles E Cowman (Author is a British Council trained Trainer for IELTS. Mob He feels that the story has a good potential for a play) 15 ***

16 Ente Prana Sakhi Yeshuvae.. Touch our grieving hearts. I have not seen my great grand father but I have heard a lot about him. As a child I never understood why my grandmother was teaching me some of the Malayalam Christian Songs. As I grew up I understood those songs were written by my great grandfather Mullasseril John Easow. He was a simple man born in 17 th October, 1874 in Pandanad, Chengannur. He was the fifth son of his family. His career started as a health inspector in Malabar, Nilgiris, Coonoor and Ooty. Later he moved to Spencer s as the manager. He was also the Immigration Inspector at Federated Malaya Estates. He was instrumental in starting youth meetings, Sunday school, and bible study classes in places where he worked. He was a good speaker and used to preach the gospel among Aadivaasis and Dalits and financially supported them. On 15 th February 1954 he left the world to be with God. It is almost 72 years since my great grandfather passed away but his songs are still alive among us. His songs had a soul and we really feel when we sing the words that came from his heart. I would like this article to be a tribute to my great grandfather who devoted many of his years in writing songs that bring us closer to God. Songs like Ente prana sakhi yeshuvae., Nalla devanae. are today so close to our hearts that we re-live all his feelings on a daily basis when we sing those songs. His great grand children have brought out a collection of devotional songs in CD form for the Kerala Christian Community. Ente prana sakhi yeshuvae. Nalla devanae Paapanivarananaam. Nithya ninne.. Thanneedename nin Sthothram cheyyum njaan 16 Sthothra Sankeerthanam Rajaadhi raajaneshu. Ninte thirunaamam Dhurithamam dharaniyathil.. Ponneshu maarvil.. A tribute by Anisha Saji Jacob (Great grand daughter of Mullasseril Easow Mathew)

17 SPECIAL PROGRAMMES April 3 - Puthunjayar May 1 - Bhoobhavana Dhanam May 15 - Pentecost Njayar May 22 - Sacred Heart Music Sunday June 5 - Education Day & Vaideeka Dhinam June 12 - Environmental Sunday HEARTY WELCOME TO THE NEW MEMBERS Saji John Mathew, No. 2, Maple Greens Layout, Chikkagubbi, Kothannur Post, Bangalore Sosamma Mathew, No. 547/16, II Main, 3 rd Cross, Vijayalakshmi Layout, Kalkere, Bangalore Thomas Mathew, #361, 1 st Floor, 10 th Cross, Byrasandra Road, GM Palya, Bangalore George Thomas, Thundiyil House, Anagalpura, Doddagubbi P.O., Bangalore CHANGE OF ADDRESS / PHONE NUMBER Rev. M. C. Joshua - Ph. No Varghese K.J., House #32, Maple Green E3, Near Vijaya Institute of Tech., Dodda Gubbi Post, Bangalore Thomas Thomas, Plot D1/C, Sunrise Heritage Layout, Kylasanahalli, Kothannur Post, Bangalore Beena Mathan, Flat No. 112, Sri Narida Apt., Bens Satya Enclave, Geddalahalli, Hennur Main Road, Bangalore Libu George, A-250, Sumadhura Swan MTB, Near Euro School, Hoodi, Mahadevapura Post, Bangalore Binu Alex, Flat No. B 102, Plama Heights, Hennur Main Road, Bangalore

18 OBITUARY - We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family members of: - 1. Chinnamma mother of Mrs. Ponnamma Mathew (Grp. C) (Jan. 2) 2. Rev.M.C George (Jan. 5) 3. Mathew P.E. (Grp. B) (Jan. 20) 4. P.P Abraham father of Mr. P.J Abraham (E1 Grp.) (Jan. 21) 5. Itty Zachariah (Grp. D) (Jan. 31) 6. Saramma Abraham Mother-in-law of Thomson M. George (Grp. A) (Feb. 8) 7. Achenkunju, Brother-in-law of Mr. Philip James (F Grp.) (Feb. 18) 8. Abraham P.O., Father-in-law of Sujith Koshy (Grp. A) & George Philip (Grp. D) (Mar. 8) 9. A.M. Koshy, Father of Koshy Mathew (Jr.) (Grp. E1) (Mar. 8) 10. Mathew P. G. (Grp. E1) (Mar. 11) 11. Dr. A.M. Cherian (Grp. F) (Mar. 17) 12. Col. Susy Chacko (Grp. C) (Mar. 29) SVM Infotek welcomes you all for Summer Vacation 2016 Educate your children on unique knowledge on basic Hardware and Networking Age group: 13 yrs onwards Location : Banaswadi Classes Available : Weekdays Monday to Friday or weekend Saturday and Sunday. For further information contact us on We do offer computer servicing any hardware or network related problems at home or office call us on LITTLE SEEDS MONTESSORI A pre-primary with a difference - a wholesome interactive environment - led by well experienced teachers. Admissions open for children aged 2 1/2-5 years. Located near Hennur Bus Depot (Kalyan Nagar) Contact Gita Abraham Website: 18

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20 ST. THOMAS CENTRE Wedding reception Conference Conventions Retreats Medical and Counseling facilities ROOMS FOR ACCOMODATION 10 Rooms - Double occupancy 1 Room - Family Room of 4 beds Dormitory -I - 25 Cots Dormitory -II - 50 Beds Contact: Mr. I. John Thomas Mob: Mr. Saji M. Jacob Mob: Mr. Mathew Varughese Mob: Mr. George Verghese Mob: St. Thomas Centre Office : Tel: sthomascentre@gmail.com #9, Mar Thoma Compound, Balachandra Layout 4th Cross, Babusahebpalaya, Kalyan Nagar P.O., Bangalore

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