A brief history of Dubai Mar Thoma Sunday School
As the Mar Thoma Sunday School, Dubai Parish celebrates 50 years, read a brief history of the first Mar Thoma Sunday Schools in Dubai, UAE. The Mar Thoma Parish in Dubai was formed on 17 July 1969 and the first Holy Communion Service was held on 29 September 1969. The first Mar Thoma Sunday School in Dubai was started in 1972 in the Cola Colony, Dubai. Read more about the pioneers who selflessly devoted their time and efforts for the glory of God and the future generations of the church.
~ This article is courtesy the Golden Jubilee Souvenir published by the Mar Thoma Sunday School Dubai.
Bless the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, Bless His holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul and forget not all his benefits
Psalm 103:1-3
Lester and Mary Hamilton start VBS (Vacation Bible School) in India (1952)
Lester John Hamilton and Mrs. Mary Hamilton
The Hamiltons (American Missionaries,) arrived in India in 1951 and were given only a brief period of language study before being plunged into the activities of the South India Bible Institute in Bangarapet, Kolar District, Karnataka. But they both continued to learn Kannada throughout their ministry in India, and found themselves quite at home with the language.
In 1952, Mrs. Mary Hamilton was requested to prepare materials for a model Vacation Bible School, and this was so well received that it has grown to become an annual event in many parts of India, and other countries in the world.
When Mary Hamilton, along with her husband, Lester, first arrived in India as missionaries in 1951, they had no idea that they would be part of starting a movement for Vacation Bible Schools that would bring the message of the gospel to countless children and continue to grow for decades to come.
Mary’s life began far away, in a Christian home in Schuyler Falls, New York. She and Lester met and were married in 1946 while pursuing graduate degrees at Asbury Theological Seminary (Kentucky). Lester was born in Newton, Kansas, into a Christian family that nurtured his spiritual growth. They applied for missionary service with World Gospel Mission and were appointed as missionaries to India. Lester wrote that he and Mary walked in confident assurance because of God’s promise in Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
Lester and Mary began serving at South India Bible Institute (now South India Biblical Seminary), which was founded in 1937. While teaching a variety of subjects, they also accompanied students on ministry trips to surrounding villages, mentoring students as they practiced sharing the message of Jesus Christ. Mary served as a homemaker, a hostess, a counselor, and a teacher with specialization in Christian education. They also raised three children: Joy, Paul, and Becky, who were educated at boarding schools.
Students at SIBI were looking for an outlet to reach out to the younger generation, and, with Mary and Lester’s dedication, founded the VBS ministry in India. In 1952, the first VBS program was held for 75 children. The Hamiltons became responsible for training VBS teachers, writing curriculum, and preparing materials. VBS teachers they had trained then returned to their communities, led VBS in their villages, and trained more leaders throughout India. As the ministry grew, Bangalore was established as the ministry’s headquarters.
Lester and Mary began to sense God calling them to work full time with VBS. After 10 years of service at SIBI, the Hamiltons moved to Bangalore. Mary developed VBS curriculum, while Lester designed VBS centers and constructed new ministry buildings in Bangalore. In a 1971 Call to Prayer article, Mary wrote: “The development of Vacation Bible School students into steady Christian leaders is one of the sweet rewards of this ministry.” Just 14 years after the first VBS was held on SIBI’s campus, over 50,000 children were regularly participating in VBS programs.
The ministry exploded beyond what anyone could have imagined, and today, over two million children are being reached annually, in 13 different languages, throughout India and surrounding countries. Thousands of children have come to know the Lord through VBS.
In 1978, Lester and Mary turned VBS over to Indian leadership and returned to serve at SIBS. For eight years, the couple taught classes, helped in construction, and maintained their involvement with VBS. Lester and Mary officially retired in 1986 after 35 years of service in India with WGM. Mary passed away on August 12, 2013, at the age of 89. Lester passed away on December 29, 2009, at the age of 88.
Source: Mary Hamilton and Lester Hamilton at https://wgm.org
Rev. and Mrs. Hamilton were highly regarded teachers at the South India Biblical Seminary in Bangarapet, in Karnataka. They both were talented and have enriched the lives of many who came in contact with them. Their many and varied contributions to the ministries of South India Biblical Seminary and the Vacation Bible school movement will not be soon forgotten and we thank God for having brought them to serve in India.
picture courtesy – wgm.org
History of the Maramon Convention 2025 – Malayalam (Free PDF download)
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
History of the Maramon Convention 2025 – English (Free PDF download)
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.
Explaining the Maramon Convention 2025 to Children (Free pdf) Useful for Sunday School students and teachers!
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 2025, the Maramon Convention will be conducted for the 130th time from 9th -16th February 2025, at Maramon, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.
A Tribute to Rev. Simon Abraham (1927-2024)
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 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.
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.
Advocate John Joseph Nalloor & Grace John Nalloor
100 Years Anniversary – Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists’ Association – a century of service
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
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 (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, 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 (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.
Read more about his life in our free pdf Ebook: https://nalloorlibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/sadhu-kuchujunu-upadeshi.pdf
His Grace the Most 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.
Read more about his life in our free pdf Ebook: https://nalloorlibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ebook-dr-abraham-mar-thoma.pdf
Dr. Sosamma Thomas – A Selfless Doctor of the Mar Thoma Church
Pages from History:- 11 May 1998
Dr. Sosamma Thomas (b.11 Jan 1905 d.11 May 1998)- Mazhukkettethu Kuriannoor – An Unknown Heroine of the Mar Thoma Church.
Dr. Sosamma Thomas was the daughter Kuriannoor Mazhukkettethu Thoma Varkey and Annamma (from Keezhukara Thenalil house). She was one among the first batch of students of the Nicholson Girl’s High School, Tiruvalla which was established in 1910. She was the first medical doctor from Kuriannoor. After her medical education she worked in various mission hospitals across mission fields in India that included Chittar Mission, and Palghat Mission of the CSI (Church of South India) Hospital in Bangalore. During her in stay Bangalore she was a strong supporter of the Hoskote Mission, Karnataka established in 1947.
The following text is taken from the book “From his majesty’s service to HIS MAJESTY’S SERVICE” article written by Mrs. Grace John daughter of the co-founder of Hoskote Mission.
Friends of the Ashram
Dr. Miss Thomas (Mazhukkeetethu House, Kurianoor) of Bangalore CSI Hospital – A great supporter of the Mission. Dr. Thomas was our family doctor. My mother had all the three deliveries and hysterectomy in CSI Hospital, Bangalore. Dr. Thomas was a strict person but her love and zeal for the Lord could accommodate all the needs of the people at the Hoskote Ashram. Night or day, she was there for us. Our childhood ailments and vaccinations were taken care by her. The village people also knew and respected this great doctor who would cure and care for them. CSI Hospital, Bangalore was instrumental in providing the medical care for all the Hoskote ashram people till the establishment of the Hoskote Mission Hospital in 1965.
She was a strong financial supporter of the Bible Society of India. After her retirement she returned to her ancestral home in Kuriannoor. She was the volunteer ”Camp Doctor” for all youth camps, retreats and student conferences of the Mar Thoma Church for many years. She was very active in the activities of the local parishes in Kuriannoor. She was called home on 11 May 1998 and was buried in the Mar Thoma Church Cemetery in Kuriannoor.
1905: Manon Ipe Mathai awarded ‘ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY BRONZE MEDAL’ for bravery
Manon Ipe Mathai was awarded the ‘ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY BRONZE MEDAL’ in 1905 for putting his own life at great risk to save someone else’s. He may be the first Travancore citizen to receive such an award during the British Rule in India.
The Royal Humane Society Medal was established in 1774. The Medal was initially awarded to personnel in recognition of lifesaving acts or attempts to save a life from drowning. The award of the Medal was later expanded to reward all acts of exceptional bravery in rescuing or attempting to rescue persons from mines, wells, blasting furnaces, or in sewers. The medal features a Latin inscription on the reverse which translates to “He Has Obtained this Reward for Saving the Life of a Citizen.”
On 5th May 1905, while bathing in the Pamba (Pampa) River, Nedumbrayar, Pathanamthitta, India a young man sank in 24 feet of water. Mathai, at great risk, dived in. He found him in the second attempt and rescued him. It was for this courageous rescue that he was duly recognised and awarded the medal with a certificate.
Manon Ipe Mathai or Appupi (as he was fondly called) was well known for his physical strength and spiritual vigour. God enabled him to use his strong physique to rescue many lives in the community. He saved many people from drowning in the Pamba River during the flood of 1924 (Malayalam Year 1099). Thousands of people had lost their lives during this unexpected natural disaster. He saved people from wild animals, mad dogs and even poisonous snakes. In one incident, a young man had climbed up an Angili tree and could not get down. Appupi was confident he could catch him in his sturdy arms and asked him to jump off the tree. The young man was safely caught in Appupi’s strong hands.
He was committed to his community. In his free time, he would voluntarily undertake repair and maintenance work of local roads in Maramon, especially during the rainy seasons. Villagers fondly called him as Manon Thantha (Manon Appachen) or Appupi (Grandfather).
Back in 1952, during the agricultural and khadi exhibition held in Chirayirambu, Maramon, Appupi was asked to participate. He famously hung a live full-length python around his neck, holding its head in one hand and its tail in the other. His fearless act is still a vivid memory to those who attended the exhibition.
Appupi and Palakunnathu Kadon Thommachen were highly respected social leaders of the Maramon area and people would go to them to settle their disputes (civil and criminal) instead of secular courts. They also actively took part in the pandal construction work of the Maramon Convention for many years. Appupi was also a close friend of the famous Ayurveda Vaidyan, Kolathu Yohannan Vaidyan.
Appupi (Manon Ipe Mathai), was the eldest son of Mathen Ipe (Ayyakavil – Kallirikunnel family from Kanjeettukara, Ayroor) and Mariamma (daughter of Kurian, Palakunnathu Manon family, Nedumbrayar, Maramon). Ipe Mathai’s parents stayed in Manon Malayil house, Thiruvachamannu, Maramon. They were the members of the Maramon Mar Thoma Parish.
Ipe Mathai married Mariamma (daughter of Kochitty. Plathodathil House, Kuriannoor). They had two daughters – their first daughter Mariamma (jr) was married to Avarachen, Vavolil House, Ranny and their second daughter Aleyamma was married to Mathai of Kunnil Family from Maramon.
Author’s note: Appupi is Grace John’s (Graceamma) (Author, Nalloor Library) grandfather’s (Mr. Thomas Manon) elder brother. Mrs. Grace John is from Hoskote, Karnataka (d/o Mr. & Mrs. M. T. Joseph, Co-founders of the Hoskote Mar Thoma Mission Medical Center – Estd: 1947).
She fondly remembers visiting Valiappachen along with her siblings during their summer vacations. He was a delightful story-teller and the children would vie for a place on his lap to hear all about his adventures. He could accommodate all four siblings on his lap! He always stocked up goodies for the children – mangoes, tender coconut in jaggery, fried banana chips, etc. Visiting Valiappachen was the highlight of their holidays. May his memory be a blessing.
Explaining the Maramon Convention 2024 to Children (Free pdf) Useful for Sunday School students and teachers!
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.
Nalloor Library 