Mar Thoma Parishes around the world will be celebrating “Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association Day” on Sunday 4th October 2026. Many in present generation do not know much about this organization established in 1924. Nalloor Library is republishing this article first released in 2024 for the centenary year celebrations. This write-up will give our parishioners and our youth a clear idea about Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association and its activities.
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.
Dr. Mrs. Mary John and Family are known to us Editors of Nalloor Library from 1987. We had the privilege to teach their children in Dubai Mar Thoma Sunday School. We gratefully remember Dr. Mary John’s role in obtaining the piece of land for the construction of the Mar Thoma Church in Jabal Ali.
Dr. Mary John’s mother Late. Mrs. Sosamma John was a member of the Vadakketh Family in Kuriannoor. (Sister of Mr. V. A. Chacko (Former Headmaster of Mar Thoma High School Kuriannoor. They were members of the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Parish Kuriannoor.)
Dr. Mary’s father Late K. O. Kurian was a member of the Peedikel Purakal family, Valiyodu, Kottarakkara. They were members of the Valiyodu Salem Mar Thoma Parish.
Dr. Mary JohnObituary June 17, 1945 – August 21, 2026
Dr. Mary John, age 81, of Springfield, IL, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, excellence, faith, and devotion to family and community. Born on June 17, 1945, in Perak, Malaysia, she carried with her throughout life the values of hard work, humility, and service. She was the beloved daughter of the late Sosamma Kurien and the late Dr. K.O. Kurien, and she was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. K.Y. John, and her sister, Jessy Thomas (husband, Rev. C.V. Thomas).
She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Dr. Ashish John and Dr. Anish John and their wives, Dr. Teena John and Dr. Kiran John; her cherished grandchildren, Ashwin John, Simran John, Yohan John, and Inara John; her brother, Thomas Kurien (wife, Dr. Santha Kurien); her cousin, Elizabeth Mathew; her nieces and nephews, Dr. Prem Thomas, Dr. Prakash Thomas, Susan Kurien, Esq., Miriam Tyrell, Esq.; numerous other close relatives and friends both here and overseas; and her faithful dog, Mickey, a Maltipoo who brought her great comfort and companionship.
She was fondly known as “Girly” by close family and friends, and as Dr. Mary by her professional colleagues. She was “Amma” not just to her children but to so many others that fondly knew her, and “Ammi” to her grandchildren.
She met and married the love of her life Dr. K.Y. John (affectionately known as “Johny”) in 1970. They had 47 years of happiness together before his untimely demise in 2017. They were the perfect complement to each other and were the definition of love and companionship that everyone they met aspired to.
Dr. Mary pursued her medical education with dedication and purpose, earning her medical degree from Calicut Medical College in Kerala, India. She continued her training in Brooklyn, NY, where she completed her OB/GYN residency at St. John’s Hospital.
She continued to work in New York until 1987 when the family moved to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. There, her commitment to women’s health and her steady leadership led to a distinguished career as Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Al Wasl Women’s Hospital in Dubai, where she worked for almost 30 years. She also served as the Director of the Dubai Gynecology and Fertility Center (DGFC). She mentored generations of young physicians and healthcare staff in their professional journeys guiding them to successful careers. Through her work, she touched countless lives with skill, wisdom and a calm, reassuring presence that earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of patients and families alike.
Upon retiring in 2016, she and Johny moved to Springfield, IL to be closer to their children and enjoy their retired life together. Unfortunately, that was interrupted by his premature demise. Thankfully, they had chosen to live in Stone Creek, a wonderful retirement community. This is where Mary met her closest friends for the last decade, Linda and Gary Galecki who moved in next door. Countless walks, afternoon teas and hours of conversation defined a cherished friendship that was such a blessing to her. Girly was known not only for her professional accomplishments, but also for the warmth and grace she brought to every relationship.
She loved staying in touch with friends, including her medical school classmates, and she treasured the bonds of family above all else. She absolutely adored her grandchildren and took great joy in their lives, accomplishments, and laughter. She loved listening to Ashwin play the guitar, watching Simran perform on stage and treasured reading and watching cartoons with the youngest grandchildren, Yohan and Inara. She always gave the BEST hugs, they enveloped the receiver with so much Love. Her loving nature was infectious, and she had the unique ability to bring joy and comfort to all those around her.
A devoted Christian, Mary’s strong faith guided her throughout her life. She found comfort and strength in prayer as well as devotional reading, and she lived with a quiet confidence rooted in her belief in God’s promises. Her spiritual life was central to who she was, and it shaped the kindness, patience and generosity she extended to others. Girly and Johny believed in helping others in any way they could. They provided support and guidance to countless family members and friends as they devoted themselves to the mission of helping people achieve success in their lives.
She was also deeply appreciative of life’s simple pleasures, including playing the piano, gardening, and reading all kinds of books.
Those who knew Dr. Mary John will remember a woman of joy, dignity, integrity, intelligence and deep compassion. She leaves behind a lasting example of a life well lived, marked by service to others, devotion to family, and steadfast faith.
Founders of Hoskote Mission – Mr. M. T. Joseph and Rev. A.C. Zachariah
The Hoskote Mission Medical Center was established in 1947 in Hoskote, Bangalore Rural District, Karnataka by two missionaries Mr. M. T. Joseph and Mr. A.C. Zachariah along with their wives Mariamma Joseph and Saramma Zachariah.
The Short Story of the Beginnings of Hoskote Mission
Listen to a rare 42 year old recording to commemorate the Anniversary of the Hoskote Mission Field on 27 June 2026.
The recording was done in June 1984 during Mrs Mariamma Joseph’s (co-founder of the mission) address to the Dubai Mar Thoma Parish. She spoke about the beginning of Hoskote Mission and the challenges faced by the pioneering missionaries.
As part of this anniversary, Nalloor Library presents a free Ebook version of – ‘From his majesty’s service to His Majesty’s Service’ (Pioneers of Hoskote Mission) released in December 2003.
Articles in the book are in both English and Malayalam and include recollections from the late Rt. Rev. Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan, late Rt. Rev. Philipose Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan, late Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas Suffragan Metropolitan, Acharya Rev. K. J. Samuel, late Very. Rev. C. G. Alexander, late Rev. Dr. K. P. Mathai, Rev. E. J. George and more.
Contents
English
Manon Ousephachen – Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan
Builders of the Kingdom of God -Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa
Speaking Ill of Others ! – Acharya Rev. K. J. Samuel
A Reflection on the life of Mr. and Mrs. M.T. Joseph – Rev. P. V. Philip
A Pillar in the Temple of God – Rev. P. Chacko and Mrs. Thankamma Chacko
Blessing Harper -Miss Blessing
Consolation Letter -Rev. A.C. Zachariah
Appachen -Dr. Rajan Koshy
M.T. Joseph -Very. Rev. C. G. Alexander
Impressions and Reflections -Mrs. E. V. Mathew
Early Days of Pennamma (Mrs. M.T. Joseph)
Memoirs of ‘Hoskote Ashram’, the place where I grew up -Thomas Joseph (Jay)
A more excellent way – Grace John
My Beloved Mother – Grace John
Hoskote Mission – Rev. Dr. K. P. Mathai
Photos
Malayalam
My Memories about Hoskote Mission Field – Rt. Rev. Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan.
Classmate of my Brother -Rt. Rev. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Metropolitan
Sweet Memories -Mary and Sally
Joseph Sar and family -Witnesses of Christ in Hoskote -Mr. K. V. Mathew
The Torch Bearers of the Gospel in Karnataka -Mr. V. Mathai
Appachen -Ms. P.T. Mariamma
Unforgettable Memories -Mr. T. M. Koshy, Evangelist
Memories, Memories … -Rev. E. J. George
Joseph Sar and Kochamma still alive in my memory – Ms. Aleyamma Mathew
Two Brave Martyrs for Christ – Mr. K. V. Varghese
Appachen and Ammachi in our Memories – Rev. P. E. Mathew and Mrs. Laly Mathew
Remembrance News Article – Suvisesha Doothan – Magazine of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association (MTEA)
MTEA General Secretary’s Letter – Article – Suvisesha Doothan – Magazine of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association (MTEA)
About the Writers
Note:
This book is a collection of memories penned down by people who have closely interacted or worked with Mr. and Mrs. M. T. Joseph (Co-founders of Hoskote Mission). This book comes from a need that old memories of the pioneers would encourage and inspire more people to join the ministry and take up from where they left. History repeats itself and the only way people would be inspired to carry on with this great legacy we have been handed down is to read and pass on the memories of yesteryears.
Almost all the people who have contributed to this book are people who have done their part in building up the Kingdom of God. This is not a book to highlight or to downplay any individual’s work but rather an attempt to preserve and record history of the past events. It would be a testimony to show how God uses ordinary people from all walks of life simultaneously to carry out His mission and work of letting the whole world know of His Saving Grace.
We earnestly pray and believe that this book will inspire many of you to pray and support the work of the Hoskote Mission.
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 2026, the Maramon Convention will be conducted for the 131st time from 8th -15th February 2026, at Maramon, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.
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 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
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.
20 November, 1904: Death of Stephanos Kathanar – Author of “Shayana Namaskaram” (Mar Thoma Shayana Namaskaram).
Stephanos Kathanar (born on 14 June 1852) was a member of Kallarakkal Peedikayil family of Thazhahkkara, Mavelikkara. He became a deacon at the age of 8. He was an expert teacher of the Syrian Language.
In 1897, he established Thazhakkara Mar Thoma Church and started a library for the parish. Achen is the author of The Shayana Namaskaram– (prayer song usually sung with the evening family prayer or public worship) “njangalkullha karthave…” which is still used by many Kerala Christians. Many Malayalaee Christian groups also use it for their common evening worships during the lent season.
Stephanos Kathanar was called to his eternal home on 20 Nov 1904.
Achen’s grandson Dr. Samuel Mathai was the Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University.
“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.
