MOSC - Diocese of Bombay : Annual Report (2020 - 21) - 2

MALANKARA ORTHODOX SYRIAN CHURCH DIOCESE OF BOMBAY ANNUAL REPORT 2020 - 21



In Prayerful Rememberance of Late Lamented H. H. Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Poulose II Aug 30, 1946 - June 12, 2021 His Holiness was always _ a guiding spirit in all our endeavours.





Diocese of BomBay DIOCESE OF BOMBAY THE BOMBAY ORTHODOX DIOCESAN COUNCIL (B.O.D.C.) President: H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, Metropolitan Diocesan Secretary: Rev. Fr. Thomas K Chacko MEMBERS Name Place Telephone Rev. Fr. George Abraham Kirkee 98198 13535 Rev. Fr. K P Varghese Bahrain 82910 80006 Mr. Bin K. Kuriakose Andheri 83693 55258 Mr. Philip Vaidyan K. L. 98904 05586 Mr. Sajeev P. Rajan Pune 97021 12299 Mr. Zachariah M. Zachariah Vasai 98203 32750 Mr. Riju M. John (Internal Auditor) Mira Road 98202 39251 M/s J. K. Varghese & Co (Statutory Auditor) Mira Road 98200 55694 MALANKARA ORTHODOX CHURCH ASSOCIATION MANAGING COMMITTEE MEMBERS Name Place Telephone Rev. Fr. Jiji K. Thomas Malad 99670 23532 Rev. Fr. Joy M. Skaria Chembur 97573 96161 Mr. Alex Baby Bahrain 0097339662085 Mr. Cherian George 98202 98219 Mr. M. C. Sunny Powai 98200 25461 Vashi aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 5 of 100

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Diocese of BomBay THe DiocesaN meTRoPoLiTaN Under the able guidance and leadership of our Diocesan Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, the Diocese is scaling the pinnacle of glory through the remarkable growth in its spiritual, social, educational, ecumenical and charitable activities. In spite of being burdened with several responsibilities of the Diocese and various projects of the Church, Thirumeni finds time to plan meticulously and to provide specific guidelines for every activity of the Diocese, the parishes, the spiritual organizations and the social and educational projects thereof. His Grace also spends time to provide help, pastoral care and counselling to those who approach with individual problems. Positions Held President :  Fellowship of the Bishops in Bombay.  Gregorian Community.  Thalacode Boys Home.  Christian Cemeteries Trust, Bombay.  Mission Board (Outside Kerala).  Sponsorship Committee (Medical & Para-Medical). Co-President :  Maharashtra Malayalee Christian Association. Vice President :  St. Thomas Orthodox Theological Seminary, Nagpur. Board Member  MGOCSM.  Mission Board of India.  St. George Balikagram, Dehu Road. :  Christian Medical College, Ludhiana. Member :  Department of Ecumenical Relations. CONFERENCES ATTENDED  Meeting of the Haggai Institute, Hyderabad.  MGOCSM Global Conference, Kerala.  Retreat Programme of Gregorian Community, Roha.  Visited many countries many a time since 1978.  WCC General Assembly in Vancouver (Canada) and Porto Alegre (Brazil).  Attended many National and International conferences of various types in different parts of the world.  Associated with NCCI, WCC, Boisey Institute (Geneva) & Hagai Institute (USA).  Visited many monasteries and communities in USA, UK, Europe. All the Oriental Orthodox Churches and many Byzentine Churches. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 7 of 100

Diocese of BomBay THe maLaNKaRa oRTHoDoX syRiaN cHURcH DIOCESE OF BOMBAY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2020-21 “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of His salvation from day to day”. (Psalms 96:1-2) With immense gratitude to God Almighty, for the countless blessings and mercies showered upon the Diocese of Bombay, may I humbly present a brief Annual Report, on behalf of the Bombay Orthodox Diocesan Council, on the various achievements and activities of the Diocese during the year 2020-21. THE DIOCESAN GENERAL ASSEMBLY During the financial year, one General Body meetings was conducted. The General Assembly of the Diocese was convened on 19th December, 2020, at Vashi Aramana, as per Kalpana No. 72/2020 of the Diocesan Metropolitan. The meeting was presided over by the Diocesan Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos and was attended by 32 priests and 32 representatives from the various parishes of the Diocese by video conference. The members of the Malankara Sabha Association Managing Committee were also present as special invitees. The Annual Accounts & Annual Reports for the year 2019-20 were approved by the Assembly. THE DIOCESAN COUNCIL MEETINGS In the reporting year, 8 meetings were held by video conference and various decisions pertaining to the activities of the Diocese were discussed and decided. PARISHES AND CONGREGATIONS At present we have 56 parishes, including congregations, which are actively functioning in the Diocese. LATE LAMENTED METROPOLITANS’ REMEMBERENCE DAY The 97th death anniversary of Late Lamented Metropolitan Alvares Mar Yulios and the 23rd death anniversary of Late Lamented Metropolitan Dr. Philipose Mar Theophilus were observed at the Diocesan level on 1st & 2nd Oct, 2020, at Vashi Aramana Church. V. Rev. Thomas Kurian Cor Episcopa, V. Rev. Yaunan Mulamoottil Cor Episcopa and V. Rev. N. S. Varghese Cor Episcopa led the perunnal service. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 8 of 100

Diocese of BomBay DAY FOR THE DEPARTED On 7th Feb, 2020, the day of the faithful departed, the Diocese of Bombay organized special prayer at Sewri Christian Cemetery, with the support of St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral, Dadar. 4 priests and many faithful attended the service. DIOCESAN DAY The Diocesan Day and the 31st Annual Feast (Perunnal) of St. Thomas Aramana Church, Vashi, were celebrated on 6th & 7th Feb, 2021. H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, the Diocesan Metropolitan & Rev. Fr. Dr. Varghese Varghese led the Perunnal service. A public meeting was also held after the Holy Qurbana. DIOCESAN MISSION DEVELOPMENT SUNDAY The Diocesan Mission Development Sunday was observed on 7th Feb, 2021. We were postponed the cover collection to a later date due to the Covid -19 pandemic situation. During the financial year 2020-21, a sum of Rs. 6,93,564/- was received, through the diocesan mission development cover collection. Covid relief activities During the financial year we all were obstructed with Covid-19 pandemic in all spheres of our life. By the grace of God, and due to the able leadership and relevant and timely decisions of our Diocesan Metropolitan we could overcome the difficult times. Some of the important activities we have done during the pandemic are as follows: a) Online services: - Most of our parishes could conduct the services of Holy Qurbana and other important canonical feasts and telecast it through online media. Other parishes shared the online link to their parishioners so that every believer has got the access to participate in the worship in their own home. b) Counselling Team: - The Diocese recognize that due to the pandemic situation many people were upset and they need counselling. We were formed a team of priests who are expert in counselling under the leadership of our Diocesan Metropolitan. Many people had benefitted from the online counselling. c) Financial Help: - The Diocesan Council Meeting held on 25th May 2020 decided to give Rs. 5000/- each to 300 families who are financially weak and Rs.16000/- to 100 members of Bahrain and Qatar parishes for their flight ticket charges. Around 200 families got benefitted from this project. d) Food kit distribution: - The Diocesan centre, Gregorian Community and many of our parishes distributed thousands of food kit to the needy people. The average cost of the food kit was Rs. 700/- per kit. Many of our members and the people who are living in the street as well as slums get benefitted from this project. e) Pravasi Help Desk: - Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Jiji K. Thomas we were able to start a Pravasi help desk in our diocese. It really helped many people who wanted to go their native places during the lockdown period and also get benefitted the Covid patients to get admission to hospitals without much delay. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 9 of 100

Diocese of BomBay f) Distribution of devices for online classes: - Many students of our parishes as well as our schools were not having devices to study online classes. The Diocese has decided to give devices for their online studies. OCYM and MGOCSM took over the project and done it very successfully. They collected the old and usable laptop and smart phones from our parish members and distributed to the needy students. They also brought some new devices too and distributed. It was a great achievement during the pandemic period. g) Job Cell: - Many people in our diocese lost their job due to the lockdown. Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Mathew Thannimoottil we collected the bio data of the people who lost their job and informed them about the available job vacancies which we got. It was also a great initiative during the pandemic situation. h) Spiritual guidance of the Diocesan Metropolitan: - During the lockdown period, our Diocesan Metropolitan gave spiritual messages as well as instructions to overcome the situation. It really strengthened our priests and the faithful a lot. i) Theo Ministry: - During the ‘Kaathiruppu’ days, of 2020 we were able to do the 240 hours’ continuous vigil as per the instruction of the Diocesan Metropolitan. It really strengthened us very much and it was appreciated and imitated by many of our dioceses. Theo Ministry services are continuing till the date. METROPOLITAN’S SAPTHATHI CHARITY PROJECT The Diocesan General Body Meeting held on 27th Jul 2019 at Vashi Aramana decided to: Provide shelter to 7 homeless families, provide marriage assistance to 7 underprivileged girls and provide educational and medical assistance to the needy, as the Sapthathi Charity Projects. A subcommittee named “Sapthathi Committee” was formed including priests, Sabha managing committee members and Bombay diocesan council members to make this project success. By the grace of God, during the year we could give marriage assistance for one girl and housing aid for three families. SEMINARY STUDENTS The following students were studying in the STOTS Nagpur & OTS Kottayam, for our Diocese, during the year 2021-2022: 1. Br. Wilson Abraham 4th Year (STOTS Nagpur) 2. Br. Jerin P. John 4th Year (STOTS Nagpur) 3. Br. Reuben T. Mathew 2nd Year (OTS Kottayam) 4. Sr. Mary 2nd Year (STOTS Nagpur) 5. Sajin Iype Saju 1st Year (STOTS Nagpur) PRIESTS In the reporting year, 56 priests (including 1 priest on deputation and 2 priests doing their higher studies) have been serving in various parishes and congregations of the Diocese. There are also 13 retired priests in the Diocese. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 10 of 100

Diocese of BomBay SOCIAL PROJECTS 1. ST. MARY’S TEJASWINI SCHOOL, VASHI (MOCCB) St. Mary’s Tejaswini School, started in 2004, has become a full-fledged school upto the 10th Std. and has a present strength of 370 students, from the Turbhe slum area. As per the Education Department’s requirements, the school timing is 2.15 p.m. - 7.00 p.m. All the infrastructure facilities of St. Mary’s Multipurpose High School, Vashi are made available to these underprivileged children free of cost, including the TeachNext Smart Class (teaching with the help of LCD Projector, Computer and CD’s) which are equivalent to Rs. 27,000/- per student per annum, applicable for a regular student. Besides free education in English medium, transportation, school books, uniforms and one time snacks are also provided free of cost. The aggregate expenditure per child per annum is Rs. 18,750/-. More than Rs. 75 lakhs are being spent annually, for this single project. 2. ST. THOMAS MEDICAL AID CENTRE – TURBHE (BODC) A Medical Aid Centre is functioning in a hired room in Turbhe, with a doctor and nurse working daily for 2 hours, and a volunteer Mr. Raghu, monitoring the activities. 10 to 15 patients, most of them HIV+, are visiting the Centre daily for medicines, free consultations and free checkups. The Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Terna Medical College, extends the services of a team of 2 doctors and 3 social workers, for 3 hours daily, for consultation and awareness programs, at our Medical Aid Centre. Mrs. Junu Joseph is serving as the coordinator of this project dedicatedly. 3. NUTRITIOUS FOOD FOR T. B. AFFECTED CHILDREN – TURBHE (GREGORIAN COMMUNITY) About 34 T. B. patients, most of them children aged between 3-12 years, receive medicines from the Government Health Department and are provided with a nutritious meal daily at our TB Centre. Our volunteers prepare and distribute food to these T. B. patients. The menu for this is a cup of boiled milk with Bournvita, a boiled egg, a fruit and sometimes other snacks, in addition to the regular menu, for each person, which costs about Rs. 1,000/- per day. This scheme was started on the “Shashtyabdapoorthi” day of our beloved Thirumeni. Due to the Covid-19 protocols we were restricted to do our work like previous years. Special thanks to Mrs. Junu Joseph for her dedicated service as the coordinator of the project. 4. FREESHIPS IN SCHOOL RUN BY MOCCB About 150 economically backward students are studying in our regular school. We are providing free-ship/fee-concession to these students, equivalent to the expenses of about Rs. 27,07,500/- per annum.. 5. Dr. MAR THEOPHILUS ASHRAYA BHAVAN, NERUL Dr. Mar Theophilus Ashraya Bhavan is a Shelter home for cancer patients and their relatives. It is observed that the many of the cancer patients who come to Mumbai from outstation are from a poor background. As a result, these patients and/ or the relatives accompanying them cannot afford a decent place to stay in Mumbai during the treatment aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 11 of 100

Diocese of BomBay period, as accommodation in Mumbai is very expensive. A large number of such people have no option but to live on roadside. By the grace of God, we could start a shelter home for such people in Navi Mumbai, on the 1st August 2019 viz., ‘Dr. Mar Theophilus Ashraya Bhavan’ at Row House No 28, Plot No 35, Nandanvan CHS, Sector 17, Nerul, Navi Mumbai. We are providing free food, accommodation and transportation to Tata Hospital, to a limited number of patients and their bystander relatives. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we are forced to accommodate only half the capacity. More than 400 lives were benefited through this project during the year. Monthly expenses to run this project comes to two lakhs. Spiritual organizations 1. VAIDIKA SANGHAM St. Thomas Orthodox Vaideeka Sanghom, Diocese of Bombay is a vibrant organisation of our Diocese. Vaideeka Sanghom held 9 online meetings via Zoom, during this financial year under the guidance of our Diocesan Metropolitan His Grace Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. Rev. Fr. M.B. George, served as the Vaideeka Sanghom Secretary. Vaideeka Sanghom Annual Retreat was held on 3rd March, 2021 09:00 am to 04:00 pm via online platform led by Rev. Fr. John T. Varghese Kullakkada, Kollam Diocese. 52 Priests were attended and blessed. Spiritual Revival Ministry, Diocesan Web site, Pre-Marital Counselling, The Diocesan Gateway Magazine, Jeevandhara Gospel Team and Prayer Fellowship are successfully continuing their functions under the Diocesan Vaideeka Sanghom Banner. 2. SUNDAY SCHOOL The Sunday Schools of Bombay Diocese greatly appreciate the guidance and leadership of our beloved and most respected Diocesan Metropolitan, H G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos in recognizing the most important role of the Sunday Schools in the evangelization of our young ones. This task was headed by Vice President Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen and executed selflessly by more than 450 committed teachers, in 54 Sunday Schools of Bombay Diocese. For better performance of the Sunday Schools in the Diocese are divided into 2 regions namely Mumbai Zone and Pune Zone. These regions are further divided into 7 districts: Surat, Malad, Dadar, Vashi, Kalyan, Nashik and Pune. All these Sunday Schools is led by the Diocesan Director Dr. Bright Philip along with the executive committee and head masters playing a pivotal role. Due to the Pandemic, the competitions at district level and diocesan level could not be held. However, in spite of the adverse situation some units conducted their competitions virtually unit wise. It was celebrated virtually by all the parishes and some of the parishes could manage to do it in person. The half yearly examinations and the annual examinations of all classes of the respective zones were conducted virtually as per the OKR guidelines. The class 10th and 12th examinations were successfully conducted online. Certificates were issued. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 12 of 100

Diocese of BomBay During the academic year, general body meeting was convened virtually to discuss and decide on the various activities as per the directions from the OKR. Executive committee meetings were held at regular intervals in online mode. Most of the unit level Sunday Schools conducted their classes virtually Diwali and Christmas vacations with the active leadership of Deacons and Brothers from STOTS Nagpur. During the first wave of Covid 19 when everything was locked down, many people were left jobless and everything became a standstill, our diocese identified and offered aid to financially weak Students and Teachers of our diocese. We are happy to inform that a charity collection of Rs. 4 lakhs were donated for the treatment of Aaron from our Dehu Road Parish who was suffering from prolonged illness. We thank all the Sunday Schools who contributed heartily. Sunday school Student’s camp hosted jointly by Gregorian community Roha and OSSAR- OKR Bombay diocese on 14th Nov., 2020 on a Zoom platform. There was active participation of the all the Sunday school units in the evening prayers conducted by the Theo ministry under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen. 3. M.G.O.C.S.M. With God Almighty's righteous will and abundant grace the MGOCSM activities for the year 2020-2021 functioned smoothly even during such difficult times. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought so many changes & challenges to our working lives that were impossibly to foresee in the beginning of 2020. Thanking God Almighty for protecting & guiding us throughout this situation as we pray for a better tomorrow. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 assembly was deemed to be cancelled & the current committee continued for another year. The Office Bearers for the year 2020-2021: President H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Vice President Fr. Jacob Anish Varghese Vice President Fr. Lijo Daniel (Pune region) Jt. Vice President Fr. Jubin Thomas Diocesan Secretary Rincy Varghese (Mulund) Diocesan Treasurer Beryl Varghese (Kalyan East) Divine ragas started an initiative of #LockdownJam to unite everyone and promote the idea of lockdown being fun especially in these troubled times. The challenge was a musical antakshari where the person who is challenged has to sing a new song with the last letter of the challengers’ song Weekly prayer meetings were held on Zoom platform from May 2020. Various speakers took session on Old Testament & New Testament, a brief introduction on prophets. Students across the diocese attended the meetings. BOMBAY MGOCSM along with Ahmedabad MGOCSM conducted a ten days vigil during the “Days of Awaiting the Holy Spirit” (Kathirippu Dinangal) before the Feast of Pentecost aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 13 of 100

Diocese of BomBay from 21st May to 30th May, 2020. The Prayers & discussions were led by Eminent resources on the theme “Come O Holy Spirit”. Weekly prayer meetings were extended in the form of Mental health awareness sessions from June 2020 to September 2020 Mental health is of importance: As important as our physical health. To understand the youth better Bombay MGOCSM launched a mental health awareness month. Eminent professionals from the field of Psychology & Psychiatry took sessions which helped understand ourselves better. Covid-19 hit the academics of children adversely. MGOCSM along with OCYM conducted a drive to procure electronic gadgets like mobiles, laptop to children who were unable to avail educational services in the current world of online academics. We were able to collect Rs.2,42,000 from the drive which was used to procure 34 gadgets Pune zone MGOCSM organized a session on the topic “Importance of fasting in Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church” on 13th September led by Rev. Fr. Alin Joseph Divine ragas had an episode of Divine jukebox on where they helped us explore the world of Christian music introducing us to new artists, genres and even Russian orthodox chants BOMBAY MGOCSM along with GREGORIAN COMMUNITY hosted a 3-day virtual conference KRATOS on 6-8th Nov. KRATOS which means “STRENGTH OF GOD”. The main theme of the conference was” Where is God during this pandemic?” Keynote speakers were as follow : 6th Nov (Friday)- H. G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos and Rev Fr. Jackson John (Delhi Diocese) 7th Nov (Saturday)- Br. John Noel (Taize Community) and Mrs. Elizabeth Johnson 8th Nov (Sunday): Panel Discussion on Career Guidance led by Mrs. Mini Ipe (Zonal Manager & ED-South Central Zone-LIC), Mrs. Prithu George (Head of Quality Assurance Practice,Citius Tech) &Mr. Sandeep Sarkar (Co-founder Ethica Solutions) BOMBAY MGOCSM along with Ahmedabad MGOCSM conducted a ten days vigil during the “Days of Awaiting the Holy Spirit” (Kathirippu Dinangal) before the Feast of Pentecost from13th May to 22nd May, 2021. The Prayers & discussions were led by Eminent resources on the theme “Come O Holy Spirit”. 4. YOUTH MOVEMENT By the Grace of God Almighty, the Orthodox Christian Youth Movement (OCYM) of Bombay Diocese is functioning smoothly, under the inspiring leadership of H. G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Metropolitan (President) and the following diocesan level office bearers: Vice President Rev. Fr. George Jijo Abraham, Ambernath Regional Vice President Rev. Fr. Geevarghese Jinumon Abraham Regional Vice President Rev. Fr. Skaria Sibi Thomas General Secretary Vinod Ninan Eapen, Powai Joint Secretary Jeffry John Thomas, Vashi Treasurer Blesson Abraham, Malad aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 14 of 100

Diocese of BomBay Central Committee Jaisy Biju, Mulund Central Committee Sabu Varghese, Powai Central Committee Alex Mathew, Andheri Pandemic and prayers for the associated medical, financial, mental, employment, schooling issues in our families: As almost all of our communities the world over, our Diocese and the Youth members and their families in Bombay Diocese and in Kerala have been affected by the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. Many of our members are directly health workers and working in affected hospitals, and almost all have been affected by the many effects it has had on the medical, financial, mental, employment, schooling issues that have followed under lockdowns in many areas. Youth members of our diocese joins the Diocese in praying for the welfare of all and doing whatever small activities could be done in their own parish areas with lockdown restrictions or at a combined level where possible. Our Bombay Diocese Youth Movement activities were understandably affected by the pandemic lockdown and other restrictions that followed. Local level activities, where feasible, were commendably done by many OCYM units across the diocese. The office bearers of our diocese, who were due to stepdown in the year, continued in their positions as physical meetings were not possible to take decisions and other uncertainties that prevailed at the time. The OCYM & MGOCSM Vice Presidents, Rev. Fr. George Abraham & Rev. Fr. Anish Jacob, proposed and led a combined, OCYM & MGOCSM, Online Devices Grant Program for underprivileged school children and successfully collected and granted devices to over 100 children in the financial year. The Dr. Philipos Mar Theophilus Memorial Orthodox Youth Hostel at Sakinaka, was also affected, with all inmates having to go back to their hometowns and very few coming back by the end of the financial year. The OCYM & MGOCSM Vice Presidents, Rev. Fr. George Abraham & Rev. Fr. Anish Jacob, proposed and led an Online Devices Grant Program for underprivileged school children and successfully collected and granted devices to over 100 children. The problem identified was i) Complete online schooling/college education due to the pandemic; ii) parents having “non-smartphone” devices; iii) parents sharing devices so complete class attendance is not possible – for children in underprivileged homes. It was decided to help diocese families first, then Tejaswini, Roha schools and then outsiders, as per requests gathered. OCYM & MGOCSM teams identified and selected appropriate economical smartphone devices for the purpose. It was decided to support requests from 10th standard and 11th/12th as student there were expected to have crucial exams in the year. Both fresh smartphones were purchased and older laptops received as donation were refurbished. All these were identified, collections received, purchased and delivered even as shops and transport options were closed during the lockdown periods. Over 100 students have so far been supported by this program and were able to attend their online classes using these devices. Zonal & Diocesan conferences: Zonal & Diocesan conferences were not conducted this year. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 15 of 100

Diocese of BomBay 5. MARTH MARIAM SAMAJAM All the Marth Mariam Vanitha Samajam units with their motto \"Pray-Work-Shine\" are functioning effectively under the Leadership and guidance of the Vicars and unit office bearers, in all zones in the Diocese. President H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Vice President Rev. Fr. Jiji K. Thomas General Secretary Mrs. Suman Abraham Treasurer Mrs. Elizabeth Idicula The financial year April’20 began with the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdowns. Due to the pandemic situation the existing Office bearers continue in office as per the instruction of the Diocesan Metropolitan. With the closure of religious places of worship and restrictions on assembly of persons, in churches etc, it became difficult to chalk out programmes with this existing situation in the first few months. In a subsequent MMVS Ex. Central Committee meeting held on Zoom it was decided to hold the Zonal Conferences in all the seven Zones of the MMVS Bombay Diocese, during November to December ’20. The Theme for the year was from the Book of Job chapter 27:3 (The spirit of God is in my nostrils) Eminent keynote speakers for the respective zones were as follows: Vashi / Kalyan Rev. Fr. Dr. O. Thomas Malad Mrs. Reeja Joe Kochamma Dadar V. Rev. Joseph Samuel Karukayil Cor Episcopa Nasik Mr. Geoji Eapen Zacharias Surat Rev. Fr. Sonu George The Vice President Rev. Jiji K. Thomas has to be given credit for inviting the key note speakers and setting up the Zoom facility for the above conferences. The Pune Zonal Conference was convened by the MMVS Pune, Vice President Rev. Fr. Sajeev Varghese in January, the key note speakers were Akhila Malankara MMVS Vice President, Rev. Fr. Mathew Varghese and General Secretary Prof. Mrs. Mary Mathew, and the topic was Punarsthapanavum Puthukavum. All the Above conferences were well attended by the Samajam Members and His Grace Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Metropolitan graced all the conferences with his presence. The Akhila Malankara Exams were held in a different format during the month of March’21 approx 200 candidates attempted the essay type questions, and results declared were good. The yearly Charity initiative saw a disbursal of Rs.1,10,000/- given to 22 covid affected families of the Diocese. At the behest of the Akhila Malankara MMVS President H. G. Yuhanon Mar Polycarpos Thirumeni, Akhanda Prathana was held twice during this year in all the zones of the Diocese to dispel the pandemic and pray for Covid affected people. The Samajam members of all zones actively participated in the Friday Theo Ministry services. Our Samajam members won the following prizes participating in the MMVS Navathi Smaranika Competions: Essay English Mrs. Santha Sabu (Powai) 1st prize Mrs. Dr. Hazel Sunil (Powai) 3rd prize aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 16 of 100

Diocese of BomBay Short story English Dr. Juby Sajan Abraham (Dehu Road) 1st prize Mrs. Suja Alexander (Andheri) 2nd. Prize Dr. Juby Sajan Abraham (Dehu Road) Poetry English 2nd prize The MMVS Ex. Central committee met 5 times to discuss above activities and pass the budget for the financial year 2020-21. Due to the pandemic, it was unable to hold the MMVS annual conference. 6. PRARTHANA YOGAM Under the strong prayerful leadership of our beloved Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, and the guidance of our Vice President, Rev. Fr Thomas Myalil, the activities of the Prarthana Yogam has been a great resource for the diocese. Five online prayer meetings of Bombay diocese were held on 19th April 26th April, May 3rd, May 10th and May 17th respectively. 10 days Vigil Retreat for the preparation of Pentecost was conducted on from May 21st to May 30th. The main theme of the Retreat was “Fruit of the Holy Spirit”. The Retreat was inaugurated by our beloved Metropolitan HG Geevarghese Mar Coorilos and was led by Rev.Fr. Thomas Chacko, Diocesan Secretary, Rev, Fr. Yunan Mullamutil Corepiscopa, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen, VP, Revival Ministry, and Rev Fr. Thomas Myalil VP Prathana Yogam. Under the guidance and leadership of our Thirumeni, Theo ministry (Online Prayer meeting) was inaugurated on May 6th, 2020 As per the vision of our beloved Thirumeni, all the members of organizations that is INAMS, Lay Leaders and Prathana Yogam along with the support of all the spiritual organization and Churches of our Bombay Dioceses jointly made online prayer meetings which was a source of spiritual blessing to many around the globe. Initially it was conducted weekly 5 days from Monday to Friday till October 2020, then it has been done weekly two days, Tuesday (INAMS, Prathana yogam, Lay Leaders) and Thursday (other Spiritual Organization). A dedication day prayer meeting was conducted online on Nov 8th, 2020 via zoom under the presence of Rev. Fr. Thomas Maylil, Diocesan Co-ordinator PK Mathai presented the annual report of 2019-2020.Special guest Mr. K C Geevarghese (Lay Leader Co-ordinator) Mr. Thomas Varghese (INAMS co-ordinator) gave the message. In all retreats conducted by (INAMS,Prathana Yogam , Lay Leaders) from various parishes of Bombay diocese, the prathana members of the Prathana Yogam conduct the dedication prayer. Total 81 members have participated in this dedication prayer. A family conference was conducted under the guidance of Prathana Yogam, on December 6th, 2020, Sunday from 11am to 1pm which was inaugurated by our beloved Metropolitan HG Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. The topic for the conference was “Physical and Spiritual problems faced by families during Covid Pandemic”, led by Dr. Rev. Fr. O Thomas (Ex. Principal of Kottayam Seminary). Our Prathana Yogam members from different churches of the diocese came together and worked hard, for the success of the Convention. A special online meeting was conducted on 25th November 2020 for Pune and Nashik Zone under the guidance of our Vice President Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil. Inaugural speech was aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 17 of 100

Diocese of BomBay given by Rev.Fr. Joy M Scaria, message was delivered by Mr. P. K. Mathai and concluding prayer was given by Rev. Fr. George John. Mr. AM Mathew (Pimpri) was selected as Zonal coordinator of Pune and Mr. Thomas Yohanan (Dhule) was selected as Zonal coordinator of Nashik. 7. INAMS (International Association for Mission Studies) INAMS unit started in the Bombay Diocese in March 2019. It is a pleasure to note that this organization, within its inception year itself has made good progress at the unit, zonal and central levels. Under the guidance of H G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos and Vice President Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen, Diocese Co-ordinator Mr. Thomas Varghese, Vice Coordinator Mrs. Gracy Mathew and all other Vicars of individual churches and Office bearers. On 10th May 2021 our vice president Rev.Fr. Benjamin Stephen along with prarthana yogam Vice President Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil convened a zoom meeting of the office bearers to plan for the conduct of chain prayer involves all the zones of the diocese. At this meeting it was decided that the 10 days (13th May to 23rd May 2021) will be allotted zone wise of all parishes. All the unit secretaries and members together worked out a meticulous schedule for the chain prayer for 240 hours of the ten days of Kathirippu prior to Pentecosty Festival. Timely Prayers from prayer books were given to members through PDF. More than 600 people participated in this venture. Many of them gladly participated more than one time. Meetings of the Theo Ministry are jointly organised by INAMS, prathana yogam -Lay leaders. These meetings give participation to all members of spiritual organizations such as Marthmariam Vanita Samajam, Elders Forum, MGOCSM, Youth Movement, Priest liad Etc. prayers and deliver thought provoking talks. It is heartening to see how will our lay members could speak on scriptural topics. Our Thirumeni’s desire for spiritual revival in the diocese is taking shape through Theo Ministry. Theo Ministry meetings are held every day 7PM-7:45PM through visual media during lockdown, since they are relayed in YouTube our members all over the world can watch them. Due to lockdown monthly meeting at parish could not be held regularly. occasionally all the unit held zoom meeting some unit had Prayer cells, having prayer at particular time of the day, most of the unit supplied food kits during the pandemic period, keeping in view the special prayers need in the pandemic situation. 8. JEEVANDHARA Jeevandhara is a Gospel team of a group of priests under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Sherin Thomas. Singing of devotional songs, gospel conventions, study classes and intercessory prayers are the programs included in Jeevandhara. The devotional songs for the Diocesan Convention were led by ‘Jeevandhara’ gospel team. 9. DIVYABODHANAM Divyabodhanam is the Theological Education Programme for the laity imparting faith education of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. By the Grace of the God Almighty Divyabodhnam Bombay Diocese is functioning smoothly under the dynamic leadership of Diocesan Metropolitan H G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos and under the able guidance of Rev. Fr. Thomas Varghese (Vice President) and Mr. K.V. Chandy (Director) along with the active support from Vicars and teachers of various churches under the Bombay Diocese. The academic period for year 2019-21 is the 18th batch of Divyabodhanam, a total of 223 students had registered for 2019-21 period from 15 parishes of Bombay Diocese, but the number got reduced to 125 students due to the ongoing pandemic situation. Enrolment aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 18 of 100

Diocese of BomBay bifurcation for various courses are as follows; POCE -86 students, DOCE – 25 students and GOCE – 14 students. Till now 1009 students have completed Divyabodhanam studies from Bombay Diocese. Divyabodhanam Vice President, Rev. Fr. Thomas Varghese initiated various activities during this period like regular classes were conducted for Degree students in various parishes across Bombay Diocese. Rev. Fr. Thomas Varghese also took face-to-face seminars at Dombivli and Vapi Parish. Highlights of activities – Western Zone: Regular seminar for various books were delivered by guest speakers included faculty from our Nagpur Seminary. Discussion / debate / doubt clearing along with queries raised by students were answered during the seminars. Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil extended support by correcting and guiding students for various books and essays. Highlights of activities – Central Zone: Regular classes were conducted in various churches, thereafter during lockdown online seminars were conducted by Rev. Fr. Jacob Anish, Rev. Fr. Koshy, Rev. Fr. Jossy Jacob & Rev. Fr. Abin Abraham from Nagpur Seminary. Q&A, doubt clearing sessions were also addressed during the seminars for topics related to the books. 10. SUSHROOSHAKA SANGHAM (AMOSS) The Akhila Malankara Orthodox Sushrooshaka Sanghom, (“AMOSS”), Diocese of Bombay the Acolyte spiritual body of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church is working steadfastly with an emphasis for the spiritual strengthening and nourishment of the Acolytes in the Diocese of Bombay. AMOSS was functioning well under the leadership of President H G Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, Vice President Rev. Fr. T. U. Thomas and Secretary Mr. P. G. Chacko. Annual conference was held on 14th February 2021 through zoom under the presidentship of H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. Rev. Fr. Dr. Johns Abraham Konatt was the main resource person. Zonal conference of Kalyan zone was held on 30-11-2020, Western zone on 5-12-2020, Central zone on 12-12-2020, Surat zone on 17-1-2021 and Vashi zone on 7-2-2021. Central committee meetings were held on almost every month to discuss and take decision on zonal meetings, insurance and Mediclaim of Sextons, annual conference etc. 11. PRE-MARITAL COUNSELING The Pre-Marital Counselling Program under the auspices of the Diocese of Bombay is a two-day Program that is conducted almost once in every three months. Sessions used to be conducted separately for Mumbai region and Pune region. This year the participants from both regions have attended together. Rev. Fr. Santhosh Varghese has been serving as Coordinator for the same, while Rev. Fr. Basil Kuriakose has been serving as Asst. Coordinator. The following persons are serving as Faculty for Pre-Marital Counselling in Mumbai Region: Very Rev. N. S. Varghese Cor-Episcopo, Rev. Fr. Thomas Varghese, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen, Rev. Fr. Santhosh Varghese, Rev. Fr. Jacob Thomas, Rev. Fr. Thomas K. Chacko, Rev. Fr. Sunil Baby, Rev. Fr. Basil Kuriakose, Rev. Fr.Joemon Thomas and Dr. Annie Jolly. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 19 of 100

Diocese of BomBay Pune Region: During the 2020-21 period, due to the ongoing pandemic, the same were held online via Zoom platform only twice – first in November 2020 followed by another Session in February 2021. Around 80 candidates attended each of these sessions from across the Diocese, and have received Course-Completion Certificate. We extend our best wishes with humble prayers for all of them. Rev Fr Jacob Koshy [Regional Coordinator], Rev Fr John Mathai, Rev Fr Scaria Thomas and Dr. Susan Zacharia are serving as the faculty. The online facilities are arranged by the Diocesan Secretary and Mr. John Easo. Every session was started with the introductory message of H.G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Metropolitan, which was very inspirational for the participants. 12. DIOCESAN GATEWAY PUBLICATION The Diocesan Gateway is the official Magazine of the Diocese of Bombay, under the Presidentship of the Diocesan Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. Very Rev. Thomas Kurian Cor-Episcopa serves as the Chief Editor, Rev. Fr. Thomas K. Chacko as Manager, Rev. Fr. Mathew Thannimoottil as the publisher and Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen, Rev. Fr. Scariah Varghese, Rev. Fr. Geevarghese Abraham, Mr. Kurian Daniel, Mr. P. D. Mathukutty and Mr. A. V. Kuruvila as the Editorial Board Members. 13. SPIRITUAL REVIVAL MINISTRY Spiritual Revival Ministry is a great vision of our Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. To revitalize the spiritual growth and to refresh the sacramental life of Clergy, Family, Kids & the Youth are the motto of our Spiritual Revival Mission. Spiritual Revival Committee: General Vice President Rev. Fr. Benjamin Stephen Spirituality of Clergy Rev. Fr. Thomas K. Chacko Family Sanctification Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil Kids & Youth Rev. Fr. Joemon Thomas Tithe Rev. Fr. Thomaskutty P. N. First Confession Rev. Fr. Jacob Thomas Liturgical Education Rev. Fr. Mathew Thannimmootil Chain prayer & Prayer team Rev. Fr. M. B. George Mr. Jacob Varghese Mission & Evangelism Mr. Thomas Varghese Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil Diocesan Convention Rev. Fr. Thomaskutty C. Book Shop Rev. Fr. Sherin Thomas Web Manager Mr. Viju John Accounts Activities: a) Book shop: - The Diocesan book shop was opened on 2nd Oct 2014 and is dedicated to the sacred memory of Late Lamented Alvares Mar Julius Metropolitan. Liturgical, devotional and aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 20 of 100

Diocese of BomBay biblical books are available at our Book shop. Rev. Fr. Thomaskutty C. is serving as the Book Shop Manager. b) Website: - Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Sherin Thomas, our website portals are functioning well and its contents include Church news, and other important current matters of both Diocese as well as Church as a whole are updated regularly. c) Bombay Orthodox Diocesan Convention: - The diocesan convention known as ‘Bombay Orthodox Diocesan Convention’ conducted by the diocese has become a new spiritual awakening to the faithful. In the reporting year, the 7th Diocesan Convention was held on 5th Feb to 7th Feb 2021 through virtual media. A well-known convention speaker in the Malankara Orthodox Church, Rev. Fr. Dr. Varghese Varghese (Director General, OSSAE) was the main speakers for the convention. Our diocesan Metropolitan H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos presided over the convention meeting. The devotional songs for the convention were led by ‘Jeevandhara’ gospel team. Rev. Fr. Thomas Myalil served as the General Convener of the diocesan convention. We hereby express our sincere thanks to all conveners & co-ordinators of various committees for their valuable services for the grand success of the “Diocesan Convention”. In the reporting year it was decided to donate Rs. 50,000/- to Mast. Sanoj K. Pappachen, Dehuroad as medical aid from the offertory and the donations received. d) Tithe Collection: - Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Thomaskutty P. N, this year a good collection of Rs. 15,98,954/- was received as Tithe collection from all parishes, which are exclusively set apart for the spiritual activities and for the needy people as our charity work under the spiritual revival program. e) Clergy Retreat: - An Annual Retreat for Priests of Bombay Diocese led by Rev. Fr. John T. Varghese Kulakkada, Kollam Diocese was held on 3rd March, 2021, at Vashi Aramana Church. 52 Priests were attended and blessed. f) First Confession: - During the Great Lent period many parishes organized study classes about holy confession and first confession which benefited many young children of our parishes. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 21 of 100

Diocese of BomBay Acknowledgement With a deep sense of gratitude from the bottom of our hearts, we acknowledge : - 1. Various sister churches for giving us permission to use their churches and school premises for our worship in different parts of the Diocese. 2. The members of the Diocesan Council, the Malankara Orthodox Church Council of Bombay and the Malankara Association Managing Committee for their sincere co- operation. 3. All the Reverend Priests and respectable Parishioners for their sincere co-operation. 4. Dr. C. J. Samuel for his timely advice on legal matters and the valuable contributions as the Director of the Education Board (MOCCB). 5. Mr. Riju John for his valuable suggestions as the internal auditor of the accounts for the reporting year. 6. M/s J.K. Varghese and Co., Chartered Accountants for their timely advice and auditing of the accounts. 7. The Vicar and Members of the nominated Committee and all parishioners of the Vashi Aramana Church. 8. All staff working in BODC/MOCCB for their valuable services. 9. All those who have helped the Diocese with prayers, guidance, assistance and co- operation at various levels. OUR PLEDGE We pledge our loyalty to the Holy Episcopal Synod, to the Catholicos of the East and the Malankara Metropolitan and to our Diocesan Metropolitan, H. G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos. With utmost humility, we bow our heads before God Almighty and thanking Him for the continuous blessings we have been receiving all through from above, we humbly submit this Annual Report for the year 2020-21. For the Diocese of Bombay, Sd/- Place: Vashi FR. THOMAS K. CHACKO, Date: 31st July 2021 Diocesan Secretary. aNNUaL RePoRT : 2020 - 21 Page 22 of 100

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