Dearly Beloved in Christ,
Warm greetings to you all!
The past two months have been a season of spiritual renewal for our
Parish, filled with vibrant celebrations and heartfelt gratitude! Since
September, we've witnessed the dedication of our various Parish Spiritual
Organizations. Our journey together will culminate on the first Sunday of
November, as we joyfully observe World Sunday School Day. Our recent
Harvest Festival was a moving testament to God’s abundant blessings,
while the Parish Convention and Family Sunday have deepened our
commitment to faith and fellowship. Let us give thanks for God’s grace
and for the enthusiastic participation of each one of you in these uplifting
events!
As we step into November, we enter a time rich in spiritual meaning. The
month begins with the celebration of All Saints' Day on November 1st—a
day to honour the saints who have lived before us with steadfast faith.
Rather than idolizing them, we celebrate their lives as profound
expressions of God’s grace and the deep interconnectedness we share in
Christ. Their stories inspire us to continue nurturing each other and caring
for God's beautiful creation.
For the Eastern Christian tradition, November holds even deeper
significance. On the first Sunday of the month, we celebrate Koodosh
Eetho (November 3rd), the Sanctification of the Church, marking the
beginning of the liturgical year. This day calls us to spiritual and physical
purification, as we cleanse ourselves and our places of worship to
embody holiness. The following Sunday, Hoodosh Eetho (November
10th), celebrates the Dedication of the Church, renewing our
community’s commitment to God. These observances prepare our hearts
for the sacred journey toward the Feast of the Nativity.
As we continue through November, the Church invites us into the Season
of Annunciation, a time of reflection and anticipation. On November
17th, we commemorate the Annunciation to Zechariah, a powerful
reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It encourages us
to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ and recognize the divine
purpose in every life, just as John the Baptist’s mission was intricately
woven into God’s redemptive plan.
On November 24th, we reflect on the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary.
Her courageous "yes" to God’s call, despite the uncertainties she faced, is
a timeless example of unwavering faith. As we honour her profound
acceptance of God's will, may we draw inspiration from her journey,
allowing her faith to guide us as we seek to understand and fulfil our own
divine purposes.
As we approach the joyous season of Christmas, I warmly invite each of
you to actively participate in our parish celebrations. Let us come
together as a community, share in the spirit of love and gratitude, and
strengthen the bonds that unite us. Your presence will make these
celebrations even more meaningful, as we rejoice in the gift of
togetherness and the hope that Christmas brings.
May God bless each one of you abundantly during this sacred time.
With heartfelt love,
Veeramala Achen
Meet Our Vicars.
Rev. James M. Koshy Veeramala Vicar & President
