12 December, 1912: Consecration of Bishop V. S. Azariah.
Rev. Vedanayagam Samuel Azariah was consecrated as the first Indian Bishop of the Church in India (Anglican Church) on 12 Dec 1912, in the St. Paul’s Cathedral in Calcutta. Most Rev. Dr. Copleston, assisted by ten other bishops, conducted the consecration ceremony.
First Indian bishop of the Anglican Church in India
The first Indian bishop of the Anglican Church in India, Vedanayagam Samuel Azariah was born in 1874 in a small village in Andhra Pradesh, the son of Thomas Vedanayagam, an Anglican priest, and Ellen, a woman with a deep love and understanding of the Holy Scriptures. Samuel became a YMCA evangelist at nineteen and secretary of the organization throughout South India only a few years later. He saw that, for the Church in India to grow and to bring ordinary Indians to Jesus Christ, it had to have indigenous leadership.
He helped to create the Tinnevelly-based Indian Missionary Society in 1903, and was a co-founder of the National Missionary Society of India, an all-India, Indian-led agency founded in December 1905.
At the age of thirty-five he was ordained to the presbyterate, and three years later (December, 1912) he was consecrated as the first bishop of the new Diocese of Dornakal, with eleven bishops of the Anglican Church in India participating in the liturgy at St Paul’s Cathedral in Calcutta. Bishop Azariah was the first Indian to be consecrated a bishop in the Churches of the Anglican Communion. Bishop Azariah died on January 1, 1945, two years before the inauguration of the united Church of South India (CSI).
The Bishop and the Blessing: A Story from the Life of Vedanayagam Samuel Azariah:
Bishop Vedanayagam Samuel Azariah, accompanied by the Archbishop of Canterbury Robert Runcie, visited a small village in his diocese. As they approached, an elderly woman emerged from her humble dwelling. She had never seen a white Archbishop before, and was struck by the sight of this important figure arriving in a grand car with a police escort.
To everyone’s surprise, Archbishop Runcie bowed before the elderly villager. Without hesitation, the woman placed her hands on his head and offered a blessing. Moved by this unexpected act of faith, the Archbishop was overcome with emotion . “Nobody has ever done this to me,” Runcie said, tears in his eyes. “I have laid my hands on many people. But this mother has laid her hands on me.”
This simple yet profound moment exemplified Bishop Azariah’s lifelong mission – to cultivate an indigenous Indian church where the faith of ordinary people could flourish. It revealed the deep spirituality he nurtured among his flock, where even the humblest villager felt empowered to bless an Archbishop. The incident also highlighted Azariah’s ability to bridge cultures, bringing together a high-ranking English cleric and a poor Indian woman in a touching display of mutual respect and shared faith.
Azariah had two great priorities in his work: evangelism and the desire for Christian unity.
He understood evangelism to be the acid test of Christianity. When asked what he would preach about in a village that had never heard of Christ, Azariah answered without hesitation: ‘The resurrection.’ From a convert he demanded full acceptance of Christianity which would include baptism and which could therefore include separation from family and caste. He claimed that Christianity took its origin in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the outburst of supernatural power that this society manifested in the world.
Azariah recognised that because four-fifths of Indian people live in villages, for the Church to be an indigenous one it must be a rural Church. He was constantly in the villages, inspiring and guiding the teachers, clergy and congregations. He blamed the missionaries for not training people in evangelism, and thought their teaching had been mission centred instead of Church centred, and he pleaded with missionaries to build up the Indian Church. Much of the Christian outreach in his area was among the outcast people. Gradually as Christianity spread amongst the villages, the social situation began to change, the Christian outcasts gaining a new self-respect as they realised their worth in the eyes of God.
Azariah considered that one of the factors that hampered evangelism, and possibly the deepening of the spiritual life of the convert, was the western appearance of the Church in both its buildings and its services. As early as 1912 he had visions of a cathedral for the diocese to be built in the eastern style, where all Christians could feel spiritually at home regardless of their religious background and race. Building was delayed because of the Great War in Europe, but finally his dream was realised when the Cathedral Church of The Most Glorious Epiphanywas consecrated on January 6, 1936. The building is a beautiful structure embodying ideas from Christian, Hindu and Moslem architecture. Its dignity and spaciousness create a very different effect from that of the nineteenth and twentieth century Gothic churches and furnishings scattered elsewhere in India.
If evangelisation of India was Azariah’s first priority, the second was that of Church unity. He was the two as interrelated. He believed that a united Church was in accordance with the will of God, ‘that we may all be one’, and he also believed that a United Church would be more effective for evangelism. Addressing the Lambeth Conference in 1930 he pleaded:
“In India we wonder if you have sufficiently contemplated the grievous sin of perpetuating your divisions and denominational bitterness in these your daughter churches. We want you to take us seriously when we say that the problem of union is one of life and death. Do not, we plead with you, do not give us your aid to keep us separate, but lead us to union so that you and we may go forward together and fulfil the prayer, ‘That we may all be one.’”
Bishop Samuel is commemorated in the sanctoral calendars of the Anglican Church in North America and the Church of England on January 2.
The guest house of the National Council of Churches in India at their Nagpur headquarters is known as Azariah House in memory of the Bishop.
“The Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom owes much to the self sacrificing work of Mrs. Kandamma Varghese who worked untiringly as the Organizing Secretary for over 20 years, traveling far and wide, organizing branches in the parishes, doing evangelistic work among Christians, building up the work in parishes.” ~ The Mar Thoma Church, Heritage and Mission – Alexander Mar Thoma Metropolitan.
Mrs. Kandamma was a modest person in wearing jewellery. She used to request people who had more than one gold chain to donate the second one for gospel work. Due to Kandamma’s loving approach to the wife of Diwan Bhadur Dr. V. Varghese sold her ornaments and donated the money for the construction of the Salem Orphanage in Tiruvalla.
The Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom was established in 1919 during the Maramon Convention, under the leadership of Abraham Mar Thoma Suffragan Metropolitan, who gave the women’s organization continuous support and inspiration. Mrs. Kandamma Varghese (born 1876), Chruthuruthiyil, Thumpamon was the first traveling, organizing secretary of the Sevika Sanghom.
Bullock Cart transport (for illustrative purposes)
During the nearly 20 years of service she travelled far and wide to almost all corners of Travancore. In those days there were no proper roads, so she had to walk miles to her work and used bullock carts to visit distant places. One of her annual reports submitted to the Sevika Sanghom reads like this: “Visited Puthen Cavu, Kundara… (Names of so many parishes are given), etc. Conducted 101 special meetings for women, 38 meetings for girls, visited 236 Christian homes, 70 non Christian homes, personally interacted with 415 people, distributed 700 tracts, 90 gospel portions etc…”
After serving many years as a Traveling Secretary, she became the General Secretary of the Sanghom. She put a firm foundation for the smooth running of various departments of the Sevika Sanghom. When the Sanghom started the Salem Bhavanam (Orphanage) in 1923, Kandamma took up that responsibility as well. She adopted orphan children who were previously looked after by Mrs. Sosamma Eappen of Kotturethu Chengannur.
Kandamma spent her final days in Perumbavoor with her son Mr. C. V. Koshy who was the headmaster of the Ashram High school there. She was called to her eternal home on 9 November, 1964 at the age of 88. In her memory, the Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom has collected a Memorial fund of Rs.15,000 (in 1964 this was a big amount) and the interest collected from this fund is still being used for the theological education of the women who are willing to do full time Gospel work.
She leaves behind a glowing legacy of her work in Kerala to inspire more young women of the church.
Mrs. Kandamma Varghese – Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom
Read more details in our free pdf E-book which is also an excellent resource for Sunday Schools and church organizations.
Sadhu Sundar Singh at Maramon Convention 1918. Also seen is Rev. Arthur Parker (the fourth LMS missionary in Trivandrum) and his wife Mrs. Rebecca Arthur Parker the author of the book – Sadhu Sundar Singh, Called of God (1920). (AI generated image for illustrative purpose only)
Church historians have always debated when the famed missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh visited the world renowned Maramon Convention. Many church history books mistakenly mention 1917, 1918, or 1919 or all the three years. However, Sadhu Sundar Singh came to the Maramon Convention only once in 1918.
NalloorLibrary.com presents evidence from a chapter from a book – Sadhu Sundar Singh, Called of God (1920) authored by Mrs. Rebecca Arthur Parker. It is a first hand eye-witness account of the 1918 convention through the eyes of Mrs. Rebecca Arthur Parker. She mentions in the detail the convention grounds, the number of people, the sights she saw and how 32,000 people gathered to hear Sadhu Sundar Singh at a venue built for 25000 people.
Mrs. Rebecca Parker also mentions the two Bishops of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church, who appeared daily in resplendent robes of red or purple satin with gold belts and quaint head-dresses. In 1918, the Mar Thoma Syrian Church had only two Bishops – His Grace the Most Rev. Titus II Mar Thoma Metropolitan and Suffragan Metropolitan Bishop Abraham Mar Thoma. Both bishops served tirelessly for the building up of the church.
His Grace the Most Rev. Titus II Mar Thoma Metropolitan (right) and Suffragan Metropolitan Bishop Abraham Mar Thoma (left).
His Grace the Most Rev. Titus II Mar Thoma Metropolitan He was the nephew of Titus I Metropolitan and was consecrated by him at Puthencavu St. Mary’s Church in 1898, assisted by Metropolitan Mar Koorilos of Thozhiyoor. He worked with Titus I as his Suffragan Metropolitan, and became Metropolitan in 1910. He worked vigorously for the building up of the Church.
In those days when it was difficult to travel, he visited Churches in out-of-the-way locations and organized the Parishes on organizational lines. He took measures to ensure that the Parish officials maintained the Parish account up-to-date;and he fostered various programmes of the Parishes. The Mar Thoma Sevika Sangam was organized in 1919 and the Voluntary Evangelists Association in 1925. The Mar Thoma Theological Seminary for the training of the Clergy was established at Kottayam in 1926. Bishop Abraham Mar Thoma was consecrated as Suffragan Metropolitan in 1917 and the two Bishops worked together tirelessly for the growth of the Church. Titus II Mar Thoma passed away in 1943 after being Metropolitan for 33 years.
His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan Abraham Mar Thoma was known all over India for his burning passion for evangelism, for his zeal for spreading the Gospel through the length and breadth of India. He received theological training in India and Canada. It was during this time that the Mar Thoma Church became well known in the Western World. He was consecrated Bishop in the year 1917 and he worked relentlessly as Suffragan Metropolitan for the spiritual strengthening of the Church and for its witness. He was installed Metropolitan in 1944 when Titus II Metropolitan passed away. He was born in an illustrious Orthodox family but his father passed away when he was very young and he was brought up in his mother’s house at Eraviperoor, a home which cherished the blessings of the reformation.
He was President of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association and the National Missionary Society. Even though he was suffering from acute diabetes for many years, he went on working with the motto: “it is far better to burn out than to rust out”. The Abraham Mar Thoma Bible Institute established for the training of voluntary evangelists in the Church was named after him. Though he was Metropolitan only for four years, his long ministry as Bishop strengthened the Church in all its missionary enterprises. He was called to eternal home in 1947.
Who were the Parkers?
Rev. Arthur Parker (the fourth LMS missionary in Trivandrum) and Mrs. Rebecca Arthur Parker the author of the book – Sadhu Sundar Singh, Called of God (1920).
Rebecca Jane Parker: born, 1865; a church member in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire; married Arthur Parker (1858-1935, a London Missionary Society (LMS) missionary in South India). Working with her husband in the Trivandrum area, she ran a hostel and boarding home for Christian girls and Bible women; established an embroidery industry, employing over 1,000 Christian women.
Singh and Rebecca Parker began a correspondence from March 1918. In his letters, Singh addressed Parker as ‘my dearest Mother’ and signed off as ‘Sundar’, often as ‘your ever loving son’, and referred to Reverend Parker as ‘Father’. Parker, born in 1865, is described as adoptive mother to Singh in the LMS Archives, and she was certainly an older, benevolent figure who looked after Singh, who had no mother of his own. Singh came to fame outside of South Asia largely through the efforts of Rebecca Jane Parker, wife of Arthur Parker, members of the London Missionary Society (LMS) in Trivandrum, South India. ~ S. Mukherjee
Mrs. Parker was awarded the Kaisar-i-Hind medal by the British government for social service in 1921. She retired in 1925 and died at Leamington Spa, England, in 1946.
Rev. Arthur Parker took charge in 1900 as the fourth LMS missionary in Trivandrum. The construction of a new church building (Mateer Memorial Church) in the LMS Compound was undertaken in four years (1902-1906). It was dedicated on December 1, 1906 by Rev. R. W. Thompson, the Foreign Secretary of the LMS who was heading a deputation as part of the centenary of the Travancore Mission (estd. in 1806 by Ringeltaube at Mylaudy). He died on 6th December 1935. https://www.mateermemorialchurch.com/
CSI Mateer Memorial Church: A Pillar of Protestant History in Trivandrum
Located in the heart of Palayam, the CSI Mateer Memorial Church is a cornerstone of Protestant Christian heritage in Kerala. Originally founded in 1838 by the London Missionary Society (LMS), it began as a simple chapel established through the efforts of early missionaries like Rev. John Cox and local supporters.
The early congregation grew steadily under Rev. Cox, who formalized the church’s structure through a trust deed open to all Protestant Christians. Over time, it also hosted Malayalam and Tamil services, serving both the local Christian community and visiting British officials. In 1893, following the death of Rev. Samuel Mateer-an influential missionary who significantly contributed to its growth-a plan was initiated to construct a larger building in his memory. By 1906, a new church building was completed at the LMS Compound under the guidance of Rev. Arthur Parker and dedicated by Rev. R.W. Thompson.
Architecturally, the church is distinguished by its Hallenkirche-style layout, Gothic arches, granite construction, and iconic square bell tower. It was not merely a change of building but a continuation of the same community, making it a rare example of living ecclesiastical heritage. Through centuries of transitions, it remains a vital spiritual space that has shaped the religious and educational landscape of Trivandrum, closely linked with institutions like University College and the city’s early missionary schools.
A free Malayalam PDF resource sheet for Malayalam Speaking Christians and Sunday Schools to explain facts and events chosen from the history of the Maramon Convention throughout the ages. The document contains rare photos and facts.
A big thank you to Mr. Liju Zachariah, Kattayil Graphics, Kuriannoor for the Malayalam Translation
A free English PDF resource sheet for Non- Malayalam Speaking Christians and Sunday Schools to explain facts and events chosen from the history of the Maramon Convention throughout the ages. The document contains rare photos and facts.
A Tribute to Rev. Simon Abraham B.A., G.Th. (1927-2024)
(U.C. College Alwaye, L.T. College Jabalpur) Cherukara Bungalow, Ayroor North, Pin: 689612
Rev. Simon Abraham and Aleyamma Kochamma
Rev. Simon Abraham was a senior priest in the Mar Thoma Church, known for his unwavering faith, dedication to ministry, and compassionate service to all people. Born on July 18, 1927, he was a beloved priest who touched many lives through his pastoral care, self-discipline, and remarkable memory. His life was a true reflection of the words from Daniel 12:3: “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” He was called to his eternal home on 3rd December 2024.
Early Life and Family Background
Rev. Simon Abraham was born to C.A. Simon of Cherukara, Ayroor, and Rahelamma of Valiyakalayil, Kuriannoor. His paternal grandfather, Rev. C.P. Abraham Kasseessa (1876-1940), was instrumental in founding the Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists Association in 1924. Achen’s great-grandfather, Very Rev. Philipose Malpan (1836-1894), was the Vicar General from Cherukara, Ayroor. His family heritage was steeped in spiritual leadership and service to the church.
Rev. Simon Abraham was a member of the Ayroor Chayal Parish, which played a significant role in shaping his spiritual journey. His early education included attending the Mar Thoma High School in Kuriannoor, where he laid the foundation for his future calling.
Ministry and Service
Rev. Abraham’s journey in the ministry began with his ordination. He was ordained a deacon on July 26, 1955, and a priest on May 21, 1959. He dedicated over three decades of service to the church, retiring on July 18, 1992. Throughout his ministry, he served numerous parishes across Kerala, India, and even abroad.
Among the many parishes he served were Pathanapuram (Salem MTC), Bethel, Kavugumcherri, Pidavoor, Kattanam, Thamarakulam, Nuranadu, Chunakkara, Thazhava, Kurathikkadu, Mavelikkara, Kallimel, Kayamkulam (Salem),Puthupally, Paruthippara (Tvm), Sreekariam, Vithura, Kuriannoor (St.Thomas), Perumpara, Ayroor Chayal, Poovanmala (St.Thomas), Kalampala, Edapavoor (Bethel) in Kerala, and in cities like Bombay (Dadar), Kalyan, Ambernathu, and Bhopal (St.Peter’s and St,Paul’s), Indore. Rev. Abraham also served in Dubai (May 1978- April 1981), Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. His time as a missionary in Kayamkulam – Tharamel Kadapuram (Sea Coast) Mission and Bhopal Mission Field left a significant impact, as he worked tirelessly to spread the Gospel and serve the community.
Achen’s additional duties included coordinating Dalit parishes in the Ranny-Nilakkal Diocese. He was also deeply involved in community service, not just within the church but with people of all faiths, ensuring that everyone felt welcomed and cared for.
Family and Personal Life
Rev. Abraham’s personal life was intertwined with his ministry. He married Aleyamma (Ponnamma) B.A., a former staff member at the University of Kerala who resigned from her job after their marriage. Together, they created a home full of warmth, faith, and service. Kochamma (Ponnamma) was not only a loving partner but also a true friend, counsellor, and strength to Achen throughout his ministry. Aleyamma Kochamma passed away on 17 October 2021 (age 84).
Rev. Abraham’s children—Ray Abraham (married to Georgie Eappen), John Abraham (Joe, married to Liza), and Sim Abraham (married to Romy)—were an integral part of his life. His family was a source of joy and support, with their home in Ayroor being a place of welcome for anyone in need.
Rev. Simon Abraham and Aleyamma Kochamma in 1978 – Dubai MTC
Legacy: The Acronym SIMON ABRAHAM
Rev. Abraham’s name is synonymous with service, faith, and dedication. His life can be encapsulated in the acronym SIMON ABRAHAM, which reflects his character:
Simple, always with a smile, successful because self-disciplined and content.
Inspiring
Memory was outstanding; once if he has met a person, he would remember their name and where abouts. God blessed him with good memory till the end.
Others were his concern.
Never slacking, always moving with an aim and purpose.
Aiming high to win souls for Christ his only master.
Burning zeal for the Lord.
Running the race faithfully, till the Master called him home.
Always available.
Home was open to all at all times
Accepting the limitations and restrictions, he was alert and fulfilled the call and great commitment to the Great Sheperd.
Model family – Kochamma (Ponnamma) was a true friend counsellor, leading light, and strength to Achen in his ministry. Her children would call her Blessed.
A Shepherd’s Heart
Rev. Simon Abraham was a devoted priest who cared deeply for everyone in his parish, regardless of their religion, caste, or creed. Both Achen and Kochamma were known for their selfless house visits, offering comfort, counselling, and prayers to everyone they met. Achen’s genuine concern for people, both Christian and non-Christian, made him a beloved figure in the community. Non-Christians eagerly awaited Achen’s visits, finding solace in his prayers and thoughtful counsel.
Final Years and Home Call
Rev. Simon Abraham’s faithful service continued until his retirement in 1992, after which he lived a life of prayer and reflection. On 3rd December, 2024, he was called to his eternal home at the age of 97. His passing was a significant loss, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the ministry he led.
Rev. Simon Abraham will always be remembered for his dedication to Christ, his love for people, and his exemplary life of service. His memory remains an inspiration to all who knew him, and his life continues to shine as a beacon of faith and compassion for future generations.
“But as for you, go on your way until the end. You will rest and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.” ~ Daniel 12:13
Personal Note from Editors
Rev. Simon Abraham was a former student of our Kuriannoor Appachen (Headmaster N. Joseph) at Mar Thoma High School Kuriannoor. We had the honour of Achen conducting our Holy Matrimony at the Anglican Church (Holy Trinity) in Dubai in 1979. Throughout his retired years in Ayroor, we remained in close contact with Achen and his family. He was a steadfast supporter of our Nalloor Library website, and his encouragement meant a great deal to us.
The Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association, established in 1924, is a recognized organization within the Mar Thoma Church celebrating its centenary year (100 years) on 23 August 2024. It is a time to reflect and remember the people who sacrificed and toiled selflessly to begin this great institution within the Mar Thoma Syrian Church. The reformation within the church ignited a strong desire among people for group prayer and Bible study. Rev. C.P. Abraham Kassissa initiated the inaugural prayer meeting at Chayal Mar Thoma Church, Ayroor, which later evolved into monthly gatherings.
The first anniversary meeting, presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma, took place at Sehion Mar Thoma Church in Ayroor. Subsequently, on August 23, 1924, as decided during the first anniversary meeting, a special assembly was convened at Chayal Palli. During this gathering, an association was formally established under the name “Malankara Mar Thoma Somedha Suvishesha Sanghom” which was later changed to its current form in English as the “Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association”.
. The following individuals were elected as office bearers:
President: Very Rev. C.P. Philipose Kasseessa
General Secretary: Sadhu Kochukunju Upadeshi, Muthampakkal, Edayarnmula
Travelling Secretary: Kolakottu C.J. John Upadeshi
This association began as a fellowship of dedicated believers who volunteered their efforts in God’s vineyard without seeking financial gain or personal motives.
The association’s activities are guided by a Seven Point Program:
Intercession
Bible Study
Sharing of Experiences
House Visits
Ministry to the Sick and Needy
Conducting Prayer Meetings
Spreading the Gospel among People of Other Faiths and Ideologies
Notable activities include:
Edavaka Mission
Gospel Team
Abraham Mar Thoma Memorial Bible Institute
Abraham Mar Thoma Memorial Convention
Abraham Mar Thoma Memorial Lectures
Monthly Intercession Prayers, including All-Night Prayer
Suvishesha Nilayam and Mission Fields
The camp center for these activities is the JMT Camp, which also serves as a research and meditation center located in Kombadi, Tiruvalla.
The Association manages three mission fields at Achencovil near Punalur, Mukkada near Ranny and Kalkulam near Chungathara. Its official magazine is the Tri-Monthly ‘Sandesam’ containing sermon notes, Bible studies, articles and the news about the association.
The Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association serves as the organization in the Church emphasizing the ministry of the laity in the Church. The Platinum Jubilee of the Association was celebrated in 1999 and the Centenary year will be celebrated 23 August 2024.
C. P. Abraham Kasseessa, Cherukara Chuzhukunnil, Ayroor 1876-1940
Rev. C.P. Abraham Cherukara, Ayroor
C. P. Abraham Kasseessa, hailing from Cherukara Chuzhukunnil, Ayroor (1876-1940), was the son of the Vicar General, Very Rev. Philipose Malapan (1836-1894), of Cherukara in Ayroor. Abraham’s ecclesiastical journey began after completing his Matriculation when he became a Deacon in 1897 and subsequently a Priest in 1898. His visionary zeal led to the establishment of numerous Mar Thoma Parishes in and around Ayroor, and it was his unwavering commitment that ultimately gave rise to the Evangelists’ Association.
During the Revival Movement (Naveekaranam), prayer groups emerged in various Mar Thoma Parishes. These groups dedicated themselves to Bible Study, Intercessory Prayer, and spreading the Gospel message. Under the guidance of Rev. C.P. Abraham Kasseessa, prayer groups from Kuriannoor, Ayroor, Maramon, and Kozhencherry convened at Chayal Mar Thoma Church, Ayroor. The inaugural meeting occurred on August 23, 1923, followed by monthly gatherings led by Abraham Kasseessa.
The first anniversary meeting, presided over by Abraham Mar Thoma Thirumeni, took place at Sehion Mar Thoma Church in Ayroor. Subsequently, on August 23, 1924, as decided during the first anniversary meeting, a special assembly was convened at Chayal Palli. During this gathering, an association was formally established under the name “Malankara Mar Thoma Somedha Suvishesha Sanghom” which was later changed to its current form. The following individuals were elected as office bearers:
President: Very Rev. C.P. Philipose Kasseessa
General Secretary: Sadhu Kochukunju Upadeshi, Muthampakkal, Edayarnmula
Travelling Secretary: Kolakottu C.J. John Upadeshi
Ayroor Achen, Rev. C. P. Philipose
Ayroor Achen, Rev. C. P. Philipose
Ayroor Achen, Rev. C. P. Philipose (born. May 25, 1868, died. February 2, 1948), son of Ayroor Cherukara Naranathu Paruvelithundiyil Very Rev. Philipose Malpan and Mariamma Philipose (Chengannur Kanjipuzhethu).
After completing his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), he was ordained as a deacon in 1892 and later as a priest in 1895. Rev. C. P. Philipose served as the vicar for various parishes in the vicinity of Kozhencherry and Ayroor. Many of the Mar Thoma parishes to the east of Kozhencherry owe their establishment to his dedicated efforts.
In 1890, Rev. C. P. Philipose assumed the role of General Secretary of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association, a position he held for over half a century until his resignation due to declining health. He provided steadfast leadership for the Maramon Convention for nearly five decades and was a significant contributor as one of the main translators. His sons, Mr. C. P. Philip and Prof. C.P. Mathew, continued his legacy. Rev. C. P. Philipose passed away on February 2, 1948, and he was laid to rest in the cemetery of Kozhencherry Mar Thoma Church, in the front row.
Kolakottu Kochukunju Upadeshi, C. J. John Upadeshi
Kolakottu Kochukunju Upadeshi (C.J.John Upadeshi)
Kolakottu Kochukunju Upadeshi, also known as C. J. John Upadeshi (1879 – July 19, 1975), held the distinction of being the first Travelling Secretary of the Mar Thoma Evangelists’ Association. Born into the renowned Kolakottu Family of Ayroor, he received his early education in Ayroor itself. From a very young age, he nurtured a profound aspiration to engage in Gospel work. Despite being born with a physical impairment that caused a noticeable limp, he persevered in his calling, and God empowered him to provide significant contributions to the Voluntary Evangelists’ Association during its formative years.
Sadhu Kochukunju Upadesi
Sadhu Kochukunju Upadesi
Sadhu Kochukunju Upadesi (born Dec 1883, died 30th Nov, 1945) also known as Mr. Moothampakkal Itty Varghese from Moothampakkal, Edayaranmula near Chengannur, held a remarkable place in the history of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church. He served as the inaugural General Secretary of the ‘Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association, established in 1924, and remained in this role until 1945. Over the span of nearly four decades, he fervently preached the teachings of the Bible in clear and accessible language throughout South India.
Sadhu Kochukunju Upadesi embodied the life of a true Sadhu, committing himself to a spiritual existence. He composed an impressive repertoire of more than 200 hymns, many of which continue to feature prominently in worship books across various denominations to this day. His powerful messages led thousands of individuals to turn to God in faith.
His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan
Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan
Dr. Abraham Mar Thoma Metropolitan held the position of President in both the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association and the National Missionary Society. In 1917, he was consecrated as a Bishop and served tirelessly as the Suffragan Metropolitan, dedicating himself to the spiritual fortification of the Church and its missionary endeavors. In 1944, upon the passing of Titus II Metropolitan, he ascended to the role of Metropolitan.
The Abraham Mar Thoma Bible Institute, established to train voluntary evangelists within the Church, bears his name in recognition of his contributions. His visionary outlook led to the creation of the Mar Thoma Suvishesha Sevika Sanghom in 1919 (Sevika Sanghom was inaugurated on Friday, February 14, 1919, during the Maramon Convention), as well as the Voluntary Evangelists Association in 1924.
He also played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Vanitha Mandiram in Tiruvalla, an educational institute for the Sevika Sanghom. Although his tenure as Metropolitan spanned only four years, his extensive ministry as a Bishop significantly fortified the Church in all its missionary endeavors. He departed to his eternal home in 1947.
A free pdf resource sheet for Parents / Sunday School Teachers to explain to their children facts and events chosen from the history of the Maramon Convention. In 2024, the Maramon Convention will be conducted for the 129th time from 11th -18th February 2024, at Maramon, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.
Ever wondered about the story of CMC? In this video you will see the moment that inspired a young woman to establish a Christian medical mission in Southern India over a 100 years ago. See how it has grown and developed over the century – and meet some of the people who have helped it on it’s journey. Be inspired yourself by this wonderful story of faith and devotion.
Dr. Ida Sophia Scudder
Dr. Ida Sophia Scudder
‘Aunt Ida’, as Dr. Ida Scudder was fondly called, was born in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu on 9th December, 1870 and passed away on 24th May, 1960, in Kodaikanal. To this day, she is remembered with great affection by the staff, students and alumni of CMC Vellore and the citizens of Vellore.
Her passionate concern for the women of India sprang from the night she was begged by a Brahmin gentleman to come to save his young wife who was struggling in childbirth. Then only a teenager with no medical training, she could offer no help – but the man refused to allow her doctor father to come near his wife: “it would be better that she died than be seen by a man”. On that same night, two other men came to her parents’ bungalow with the exact same request, and departed with the same sad response. The next morning she was shocked to learn that all three mothers and their babies had died – all for want of a female doctor. She gave up all thoughts of marriage and a comfortable life in the USA, and instead threw herself into medical training, returning to India as a qualified doctor in the year 1900.
Hospital Beds on the Mission Compound, 1901-02 | Pic Credit journal.cjgh.org
Her primary focus in those early years was women and children. She started with a tiny clinic: just one bed with a window through which medicines were dispensed. In the year 1902 she opened the 40-bedded Mary Taber Schell Memorial Hospital in Vellore. In the next year, with a small band of dedicated helpers, she saw over six thousand patients and conducted 40 surgical operations. She did not neglect the rural population, but would take out bullock carts, carrying nurses and medicines, and hold ‘roadside clinics’ at the nearby villages.
The funds to build the first small hospital were donated by a New York banker, Mr. Schell, in memory of his late wife Mary. He actually gave Ida Scudder more money than she asked for because he wanted it, he said, to be a “very good hospital”. This concept of not settling for “good enough” but striving for excellence was one of the hallmarks of Aunt Ida’s life, and of the institution she founded. CMC has always tried to be the very best it can be, sending its staff for higher studies at leading institutions around the world, and investing in the latest medical technology.
Ida Scudder with the first seven nurses
Right from the beginning, Ida knew that she needed to train women to help women. Initially it was compounders and nurses: formal nurse training began in 1909. By the year 1918, she proudly opened the Missionary Medical School for Women, which offered the LMP (Licensed Medical Practitioner) course.
Ida Scudder with Mahatma Gandhi, 1928
In 1928, ground was broken for the “Hillsite” medical school campus on 200 acres at Bagayam, Vellore. In 1928, Mahatma Gandhi visited the medical school.
In 1942 this was upgraded to a full MBBS degree course, and men were admitted from 1947 onwards. The Nursing School became the first College of Nursing in India in 1946 and is now a WHO collaborating centre for Nursing and Midwifery. In 2020, CMC Vellore celebrated Aunt Ida’s 150th birth anniversary and 120 years of CMC Vellore.
Ida Scudder is famous as the founder of the Christian Medical College and its associated hospitals, but her legacy is far greater than the institution and its buildings.
Dr. Ida Scudder with her nurses. Pic Credit – vellorecmc.org
She brought new hope and dignity to women in South India, giving them the benefits of modern medicine previously denied them by cultural barriers. She opened up the health care professions to women from all faiths and backgrounds, encouraging families to allow their daughters to train as nurses and doctors and showing by her own example and her students’ achievements that women could equal men both in medical studies and clinical proficiency, and excel in leadership even in the toughest of times.
Ida Scudder inspired hundreds of young medical professionals to take the words of Jesus as their motto. He said that he had come, “not to be served but to serve.” Many of her graduates dedicated their lives to bringing healthcare and new hope to remote areas of India. Others continued to serve in Vellore, passing on the torch of knowledge, skill and compassionate caring to new generations.
Women medical students carry the jasmine chain on Graduation Day, 1932 | Pic Credit journal.cjgh.org
At the same time, Ida never lost “the common touch”. Patients loved her because of her compassionate care for them and the way, even after retirement, she used to sit beside them in their pain and hold their hands. Her students loved her because she made them her family, spending her off-duty time with them for relaxation and fun, and not just studies. Her colleagues and staff members respected her trust in them and her integrity, tireless hard work and indefatigable spirit as she strove to build “not a medical college, but the Kingdom of God”.
Surgical care for women by women. | Pic Credit journal.cjgh.or
Ida Scudder, who never had any postgraduate medical training, was a pioneer in many areas: medical training for women, roadside clinics, new initiatives in education and research. Yet, she was so determined to start helping in India that she had arrived in Vellore, in 1900, without any working experience: her plan was to serve her internship under the supervision of her father. However, he died within a year of her return to India.
When it came to the first years of academic teaching, she had to go back to her basic text books and constantly study to keep ahead of her students. Nevertheless, she recognised the value of research and both published papers herself and encouraged others to do so. She tried to make sure that CMC was at the forefront of introducing new treatments and acquiring the latest equipment. Her commitment to improving the quality and effectiveness of medical practice has resulted in CMC Vellore being one of the leading medical research institutes in India.
For her tremendous and tireless service to the nation, Ida Scudder received the Kaiser-i-Hind medal in 1920. But she was not someone who merely achieved great things herself; she also inspired others to achieve more than they could imagine. She had to cajole and persuade people to train in new specialities and take up unfamiliar administrative responsibilities – and people responded willingly because of her leadership and passion. Somehow, during the closing years and aftermath of the Second World War and with no financial security, she managed to pull together a top class faculty to staff the new Medical College.
As we now gradually recover a respect for nature, and an awareness of its value and fragility, we should remember that Ida Scudder, one hundred years ago, was a committed environmentalist. She ensured that there was always space for flowers and trees in her hospital. She loved creation and retired to the blossoms and natural beauty of Kodaikanal.
Ida Scudder continued to provide inspiration and moral support for those who assumed leadership of the College and hospital after her retirement in 1945. She encouraged the emergence of a cadre of Indian professionals who were committed to the highest standards of medical practice and education. Her funeral in 1960 in Vellore was an all-community event with thousands of people of many faiths lining the streets. The Government of India issued a commemorative stamp on 12th August 2000 in her honour.
Ida Scudder’s example of dedicated service to God and to mankind, her tireless work, pioneering spirit and deep practical faith has continued to motivate the Christian Medical College Vellore, its staff and students, to the present day. Her values and ideals remain at the centre of the institution and are the reason why it continues to grow, continues to have room for both rich and poor and continues to hold international respect for its work in education, healthcare and research.
Always she carried great burdens: responsibilities to her patients and staff, shortage of resources and difficult leadership decisions. However, this never showed, for she relied ultimately on her God, who, in the words of her favourite hymn, was her Vision, Shield and Delight. Ida, a charismatic and indomitable leader who was completely committed to her cause, was ably supported by many wonderful women who strengthened her hands and worked beside her, to make all her dreams for India and Indian women come true.
From Left to Right: Dr. Brand, Dr. Scudder, Dr. Balfour, Dr. Chandy. pic credit – http://www.cmch-vellore.edu
Additional Reading
Calling, Conflict and Consecration: The Testament of Ida Scudder of Vellore By Reena Mary George, MBBS, MD(RT), MA(CS), Professor of Palliative Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India https://journal.cjgh.org/index.php/cjgh/article/view/10/82
On 12 November, 2023, Sunday: the CSI, CNI and Mar Thoma Churches will celebrate this Sunday as the ‘”Festival of Unity of Communion of Churches in India (CCI) CSI- CNI-MTC”‘.
The Communion of Churches in India (CCI) has been constituted as the visible organ for common expression of the life and witness by the founding Churches, the Church of North India (CNI), the Church of South India (CSI) and the Mar Thoma Syrian Church (MTC) which recognise themselves as belonging to the one Church of Jesus Christ in India, even while remaining as autonomous churches, each having its own identity of traditions and organizational structures. “The Communion” invites other Churches in India to enter into full communion with the member churches separately and join “The Communion”.
In a meeting of the Executive Committees of the CNI, CSI & MTC in November 1999 at CharalKunnu, Kuriannoor, Kerala from 11-14 November, 1999, it was unanimously recommended that the name ‘The Communion of Churches in India’ be adopted in place of the Joint Council to reflect the growth in the experience of unity among the three churches.
Festival Of Unity
CCI week every year in the second week of November with special combined worship service on second Sunday in November in all the Churches of the member Churches. Please look for the Special Order of Worship prepared for the Occasion
Common Liturgy – The Communion of Churches in India
The Communion of Churches in India (CCI) has been constituted as the visible organ for common expression of the life and witness by the founding Churches, the Church of North India (CNI), the Church of South India (CSI) and the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church (MTC) which recognise themselves as belonging to the one Church of Jesus Christ in India, even while remaining as autonomous churches, each having its own identity of traditions and organizational structures.
“The Communion” invites other Churches in India to enter into full communion with the member churches separately and join“The Communion”. The genesis of the story goes back to the invitation by the CNI to form three commissions of representatives of the three churches: the Church of North India, Church of South India and the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church (here-in-after referred to as CNI.CSI and MTC) to explore the ways and means of further cooperation and witness in India. This move was welcomed during the meeting of the CSI and MTC Negotiation Commission, held on 17th May 1974. Therefore the three churches appointed their representatives to the Theological Commissions of their respective churches and these commissions began to function as a Joint Theological Commission.
The first meeting of the Joint Theological Commission was held in January 1975 at Madras. The object of the Commission was to explore the possibilities of close cooperation between the CNI, the CSI and the MTC and to discuss the question of faith and order and other relevant issues. The aim of this was that there might be union between these churches, keeping in mind the ultimate goal of all Christ’s people in India i.e. the fulfillment of the Mission of the Church. During their third meeting in September 1976, the JTC passed the proposal for a new model of union for these three churches, which was accepted, and the Joint Council was inaugurated in July 1978, at Nagpur.
Aims And Objects Of The Communion
✮ To serve as the common organ of the member Churches for working towards a visible manifestation of the Unity of the Churches and of the whole Church of Jesus Christ in India.
✮ To help the Churches to fulfill the Mission of Evangelization of the people of India and of witnessing to the righteousness of God revealed in the Gospel of Jesus Christ by striving for a just society.
✮ To work with all people of good will to establish peace with justice and integrity of creation.
✮ To explore possibilities of common action for the fulfillment of the mission of the Church in India and outside.
✮ To consider the question of Faith, Worship and Order and other relevant issues arising from their present relationship of full communion and make appropriate recommendations, so that the churches may grow in mutual understanding, the deepening of the experience of oneness in Christ, and in the visible manifestation of unity.
Late Dr. Russel Chandran, one of the active proponents of the council since its formation used to say that the Joint Council was established on the basis of acknowledgement of the three churches that they were already one church because of their oneness in doctrine and mutual recognition of their sacrament and ministry. It was intended to give visible expression of the unity which already existed. One of the components of visible unity was adoption of a common name. Some expressed the difficulty, that do adopt a common name would be a question of losing the identity of the three churches. However organic unity with a common name was ruled out. The attempt was made to manifest oneness through a common structure, while retaining the autonomy of the three churches.
According to the Preamble of the new constitution, the objects are :
✮ To serve as the common organ of the member churches and of the whole church of Jesus Christ in India.
✮ To help the churches to fulfill the mission of evangelization.
✮ To strive with all people for justice and integrity of creation.
✮ To explore possibility of common action for fulfillment of mission.
✮ To consider question of faith, worship and order and other relevant issues.
In a meeting of the Executive Committees of the CNI, CSI & MTC thin November 1999 at Charal Kunnu, Kerala from 11-14 November, 1999, it was unanimously recommended that the name ‘The Communion of Churches in India’ be adopted in place of the Joint Council to reflect the growth in the experience of unity among the three churches. The new name was adopted and announced at the 10 Joint Council Meeting held in Calcutta on 13th and 14th November 2000. According to the Constitution of the CCI the General Assembly is held ordinarily every four years. The first General Assembly of the Communion of Churches was held on 10 March 2004 in Cochin but somehow after two years the second General Assembly was held in CSI Centre, Chennai from 3rd to 5th July 2006. The third General Assembly was held in CNI Bhavan New Delhi on 2nd and 3rd March 2010. It was decided to observe second Sunday in November every year as the Festival of Unity in the second meeting of the Executive Committee of the Joint Council held on 5th May 1979.
The first General Assembly held at Shantigiri, Aluva held from 7th to 10th March 2004 had noted the following challenges:
✮ Unity at the level of people’s struggle
✮ Making visible the unity we have
✮ From Institution to movement
✮ Empowering people as a form of service towards justice.
✮ From bureaucracy to people
✮ From National to local The CNI Moderator in his keynote address had said “ We need to learn lessons from our past, from our mistakes and also from the insights of our ancestors and be guided by the Holy Spirit into that Unity which God wants. Let us walk together on a new journey and make a new beginning in our effort for walking as united in faith and action.
Prayer
JOINT COUNCIL (CCI) PRAYER
“Almighty God, our heavenly Father, in you alone all things are held together in unity. You have united us in a new way in Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. We praise you for your love which is the bond of our unity.
We give thanks to you that you have led the three churches to which we severally belong to come together and to form a Joint Council and now called the Communion of Churches. You have also called us to united in prayer that we may all receive your blessings and grow in unity.
In our prayers, O Father, we join with our Lord Jesus Christ in his prayer for all who believe in him “that they all may be one.. that the world may believe” (John 17:20) We confess before you our tolerance of disunity and our share in taking pride in our heritages more than in Jesus Christ and his Cross.
We pray for the continued guidance of your Holy Spirit that through the Joint Council our bond of unity in love may deepen and our oneness may strengthen our witness t the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Help us to unite for Christ’s mission not only at the national level but in all levels, wherever we can be together for worship, mission and service. We seek your blessings so that our common life and witness may be a blessings to the nation to which we belong.
We specially pray for the Presiding Bishop and the members of the Presidium,……the Moderator of the Church of North India,……the Moderator of the Church of South India and … the Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church, and the members of the CCI Secretariat and for all other Bishops, ministers and the laity and commend them to your mercy, protection and guidance. Grant that led by their ministry the churches may continually grow in love and unity. May your peace, our heavenly Father, be always with us. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Nalloor Library 