The first Maramon Convention was called ‘Pentecost Convention’ as the leaders and participants waited and prayed for the Holy Spirit’s presence to be present throughout the proceedings of the convention just like in the Book of Acts. It was conducted for 10 days from 9th March to 18th March.

In a circular issued to all the Church parishes, Titus I Mar Thoma Metropolitan entrusted the complete responsibility of conducting the Maramon Convention to the Evangelistic Association.

Palakunnathu Madathil Koshykunju (Titus I Metropolitan’s elder brother) volunteered to take charge of the Pandal construction with the help of parishes in and around Maramon, Kozhencherry and Edayaranmula. Members of these surrounding parishes donated the thatched roof made from the coconut leaves and came out in large numbers to help set up the pandal (tent).

According to news reports an estimated 2 lakh people visit the convention daily. The convention takes place on the river bed under a sprawling temporary shed, made of coconut leaves, which will seat about 100,000 people.

Parishioners help in setting up the roof of the Maramon convention Pandal using thatched coconut leaves. (Photo by Sachin Jose)

The Maramon Pandal (Photo by Soby George – 2010)

Temporary bridges built for people to cross the shallow waters of the River Pamba.

BALANCING ACT: Construction of a temporary footbridge linking the convention venue and the western bank of river Pampa progressing at Maramon near Kozhencherry. Photo: Leju Kamal – The Hindu

Maramon Convention 2010. Photo: Sajeesh P Sankaran, Malyalalam Manorama