CBA Souvenir New Semi FInal

Commemorative Souvenir
A book of remembrance

CELEBRATING YEARS
OFTHEGOODNESS OFGODALMIIGHTY

29thSEPTEMBER2016

SharonApts,D&CWings,FlatnoJ&H,I.C.Colony,NearCorporationBank
BorivaliWest,Mumbai-400103

Commemorative Souvenir

ABookofremembrance
Celebrating25yearsofthegoodnessofGod

"The Goodness of God endures continually.” Psalm 52:1

CHRISTIANBELIEVERS’ASSEMBLY
ELDERS

A.C.Rajan DanielJadhav KoshyMathew

DEACONS

K.M.Mathew SajuJoseph PhilipAmbrose

Table of Contents Theme Song

1. From the desk of a Shepherd - A C Rajan Ch: Bless the Lord oh my soul
2. Historical Highlights of Christian Believers' Assembly - Koshy Mathew Oh my soul
3. An Elder's Epistle - Daniel Jadhav Worship His Holy name
4. What we Believe & Practice Sing like never before
5. 25 years of God's blessing - James Thomas Oh my soul
6. Felicitations from Neighboring Assemblies I'll worship Your Holy name
7. Our Visitors: They were men sent by God
8. Spiritual Ecstasy of Present Believers 1. The sun comes up
9. Assembly Activities :
It's a new day dawning
a) Bible study - Godly Abraham
b) Sunday School Ministry - Philip Ambrose It's time to sing Your song again
c) ABC for teens
d) Youth Wing : Whatever may pass

i. Youth meetings - Maxlin Thomas And whatever lies before me
ii. Web site ministry
iii. Slum Outreach Ministry - Rebecca Rajan Let me be singing
10. Call and Commendation - Koshy Mathew
11. Expressions : From Sisters' Heart When the evening comes
a) Sisters of Borivali Assembly - Felicity Mathew
b) He leadeth me…Oh! Blessed thought! - Shirley James 2. You're rich in love Ten
c) Reminiscing 25 years: Great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord! - Sajini Rajan And You're slow to anger
12. Assembly Picnics: A time of close fellowship - A C Rajan
13 Photo Gallery Your name is great Thousand
14. Memoirs from former members And Your heart is kind
15. CALENDAR - 2016 For all Your goodness
16. Resting with the Lord in Glory
I will keep on singing Reasons
Ten thousand reasons
For my heart to nd

3. And on that day
When my strength is failing
The end draws near
And my time has come
Still my soul will
Sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years
And then forevermore
Forevermore

From the desk of the shepherd of God's lofty standards. It is the Chief the Lord.
Shepherd who covers our deficiencies and
ROLEOFASHEPHERD gives us daily grace as we do His service. Now may the God of peace who brought up
Excellence should be the motto in all our our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great
Not all jobs are equally appreciated In New Testament endeavours and there is a great reward in Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of
around the world. The Patriarch, trying to do our best. the everlasting covenant, make you
Jacob and his sons were admired as we read in many complete in every good work to do His will,
rich and successful shepherds in the land of In the epistles we find many instructions working in you what is well pleasing in His
Canaan. Later when they migrated to Egypt passages how the addressed to the flock as how they should sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory
they faced a problem. Due to some strange interact with the shepherds. The shepherds forever and ever. Amen.
reason or customs, shepherds were Holy Spirit has too are ordinary men and have their share of
detested by the Egyptians and they made no weaknesses and often they are acutely
secret about it. Joseph had to settle them in entrusted the care aware of it. In our recently concluded Bible
the land of Goshen, away from the despising study of Hebrews, we saw how the faith and
eyes of the Egyptian people. (Genesis of the sheep, which conduct of a leader should be worthy of
46:34) emulation. They should watch over the
the Lord has souls of the flock. The flock on their part
In the Bible, generally the job of a shepherd should remember them, obey them and
is a desirable career. It is one of the oldest purchased with His generally make it easy for them to do their
professions as we see in the early history of work, so that it would be profitable for them.
mankind. King David who himself began his own blood in the A.C.Rajan (Hebrews 13: 7, 17). In their time of need,
life as a shepherd boy calls Lord Jehovah his they can call the elder to pray for them.
shepherd, thereby raising this profession to hand of the caring (James 5:14).
divine levels. (Psalm 23:1)
shepherds or pastors (Acts 20:28). The It is a solemn responsibility of a leader to
As we begin to survey the New Testament, groom someone to take over from where he
one of the prominent professionals we come Bible says an Elder who does his work well is left. Moses was successful in grooming
across are the fishermen. Soon many of Joshua. Paul was successful in handing
them were converted by the Lord Jesus to be worthy of double honour. It is the Lord who over the baton to young Timothy. Elijah's
fishers of men. This is the role of the mantle was taken up by Elisha. The elder
evangelist in the local Church. Rightly in the would eventually honour them – as we see in should always be on the lookout for
last page of the final gospel, the Lord asked spiritually gifted young men who are
Peter to look after His sheep. He was the book of Revelation Chapters four and prepared to shoulder the responsibilities. It
commissioned to become a shepherd from may start in a small way, but it is the work of
being a mere fisherman. He remembered five. the Holy Spirit to raise up faithful men to carry
this command even while writing the epistle on the task of leading the Assembly. With my
much later in his life. (1 Peter 5:1 - 4) An Assembly's growth and stability is directly experience in various Assemblies over the
linked to the way the Word of God is taught in years, I came to realize that availability and
the Assembly. Right from the beginning we willingness is very important in the service of
at Borivali had sound teaching of the Word by
the brethren of the Assembly. We also had
able ministers of the Word visiting us from
other Assemblies in Mumbai and also from
outside the city. I remember Br. Nitish Patel,
who would come and teach us the Word in
his yearly visits to the city.

The Bible describes the qualification of an
elder or a shepherd in unambiguous words.
Reading this list in the Epistles of 1 Timothy
and Titus is a sobering experience. With all
humility we have to admit that we all fall short

HISTORICALHIGHLIGHTSOF related to Gospel work, one of our brothers- invitation letters to other Assemblies as most
CHRISTIANBELIEVERSASSEMBLY Philip Ambrose gave a temporary of us were from the
accommodation in his house to this newly Assembly. On this occasion we
“Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations. Ask your father, married couple. One fine morning he turned acknowledge with a grateful hearts the
And he will show you; your elders, and they will tell you.” Deut. 32:7 out to be a robber and they both vanished support we received from Santacruz
with valuables from his house. assembly. So it was in the perfect will of God
As we remembered the Lord and KoshyMathew Meanwhile we felt the need to start an that we could gather together to
counted His blessings, our hearts Borivali. This desire inspired us to begin Assembly testimony at Borivali and remember Him by observing the Lord's
were overjoyed and we prayerfully some Gospel activities in Borivali area. accordingly intimated the saints at Santa Supper on Sunday 29th September, 1991.
decided to celebrate His goodness towards Saints residing in Borivali took the initiative Cruz Bethel Christian Assembly. Both
us over the last 20 years, by organizing and others like Br. Joy Muringathery from brother Nitish Patel and Bro. Penfold from Purchase of Assembly Hall,
special Bible Studies and a Thanks-giving Vasai supported this Gospel outreach UK earnestly encouraged us in this matter. an exercise of faith
meeting in the last week of September, 2016. efforts. Every Sunday evening we used to go Elders of Santa Cruz Assembly Immediately after the commencement of the
for open air preaching and tract distribution. wholeheartedly supported the brethren Assembly we felt the need for a place of our
It pleased the Lord to establish a lamp stand Gospel packets were sold at nominal prices. staying at Borivali in their efforts. They own for gathering. We decided to set aside
in Borivali on 29th September 1991. People use to buy extended the right hand of fellowship in the second Sunday's offering for this purpose. At
According to His will and eternal counsel, the and read it eagerly; for others we gave tracts Gospel work, both spiritually and materially. the same time, we kept on praying to the
Lord started preparing the ground by freely. We were earnestly praying and Place of gathering was our biggest concern. Lord to show us a suitable place. As we were
sending many of His children from various waiting to see the fruit of this joint venture. Bro. M C Varghese managed to get us a praying, one of the
parts of Mumbai city to this suburban class room at St. Francis Technical Institute we prayerfully negotiated to get one of them.
township. Way back in the year 1947 Two young men came forward and joined because of his close association with We had only Rs 25,000/- in hand. Total cost
onwards, a few believing families started with us during these days and brethren took Franciscan brothers. For a few months we of the forward. The matter was brought
settling down in this area. It was in the late it as an indication from the Lord to begin a gathered there for Bible study and prayer before the assembly for prayer; immediately
'80s that many believers moved their local Assembly testimony here in Borivali. meetings on Thursdays. Thus the gatherings we could collect some amount to make the
residence to Borivali. During this period One of those young men was from Tamil from house to house was shifted to the Class advance payment. We made the agreement
some Assembly testimonies were Nadu and the other from Bengal. Later on room. In the year 1991, Bro. Fred Kosin and with the seller by paying
established, in Georagon, Malad and the Tamil speaking person left the city; but his wife Jenny Kosin came to India for the Rs. 50,000/-. According to the agreement,
Andheri East in vernacular languages, the Bengali man went to his village conducing Bible studies in various we would have to forfeit this amount if we
like Telugu, Marathi and Malayalam. Beyond and came back with his newly wedded wife. Assemblies. For three months they regularly failed to repay the remaining 4 lakhs within
Santacruz on the Western Suburbs there In Christian love and early enthusiasm came to Borivali and taught us valuable the next 6 months. Even our lawyer
was no Assembly testimony in English truths from Psalm 23. Many outsiders came hesitated to include such a clause in the
language during the '80s. and attended these agreement. But by faith we decided to go
From the year 1987 onwards many families studies. It was a great encouragement for us. ahead. We offered special prayers. The
came to Sharon Apartment, I C Colony. They Finally, all the families residing in Borivali, whole assembly was on their knees and we
felt the need to start a Bible Study and prayer though going to different Assemblies came also intimated our close friends and relatives
group. It was held from house to house. All of together prayerful and decided in the will of of the situation.
them were attending different Assemblies on God to commence an Assembly testimony
Sundays, far away from Borivali. All the here. Bethel Christian Assembly sent the Beyond all human imagination, within three
saints felt the need
for starting an assembly testimony here in

months we got the needed amount. We and prayed. Within a few months we came to Sunday School Ministry. spiritually gifted. Apart from the local
joyfully declared to all the saints God's know that the owner of Immediately after the formation of the brethren sometimes we invite able men from
provision, and requested to refrain from the adjacent our prayers and provided the Assembly in 1991, we started the Sunday other assemblies to teach us. Brn.Nelson
donating any further for this purpose. In spite needed amount of Rs. 10.50 lakhs. Thus the school ministry. First Sunday school Thomas, Thomson B Thomas, E J Stephen,
of receiving our letter, people started to send Lord provided us a bigger place to gather. comprised of 15 Children. Eldest one was Thomas John are few such teachers who
money. We got 2 lakhs extra which we could Praise His holy name. Betsy Mathew of sixteen years and youngest volunteered to come and take the Bible
use to renovate the newly purchased faith in was Joshua Rajan of four year age. All these studies. They were men sent by God for the
the Lord increased by leaps and bounds. Outreach work and Gospel activities children are well settled edification of the local assembly. Followed by
After the complete renovation; the As an Assembly, our outreach work and in their life and spread all over the world and Bible studies, we spend some time in prayer.
transferred to the newly formed trust namely, Gospel activities continued in many ways. actively involved in spiritual activities. The Apart from this prayer meeting, we gather on
"Christian Believers' Assembly". Open air meetings and tract distribution Lord has blessed this ministry in many ways. every third Friday of the month at 8 PM for an
continued in Borivali East. On Sunday Bro. Philip Ambrose is closely involved with extended time of prayer.
In connection with the Flat purchase, we had around 4 PM brothers would gather together this ministry and is keen to teach music to the
made following decisions: at Dr. Desai Bungalows to go for tract children. Bro. Koshy Mathew along with few brethren
1. All the payment should be made by distribution and open air preaching. This from the Assembly and from the local area
cheque. ministry could not continue for a long time Slum ministry in Borivali East. started a Bible study at Nallasopora. The
2. No collection should be made on personal because of many factors, primarily When Br. Dilip Bhalerao and family joined the Lord blessed this ministry and an assembly
names. due to political changes. Assembly fellowship, we got an access to testimony was established on 24th January,
As we decided to make payment by cheque, the slum ministry in Borivali East. Their 1999.
cost of the price. Since we were not Every Sunday we gather for Gospel house was opened for conducting gospel
registered as a Society or Trust, we meetings at 6.30 PM. This is used as a meetings. Sister Baby used to call her Assembly Bible Class (ABC) for Teens.
requested Santacruz Assembly elders to platform to invite neighbors and the gospel was shared The ABC for Teens ministry started by
permit us to operate receipts/payments unsaved contacts to share the good news powerfully. The late Bro. Ivan Desai was Borivali Assembly in the year 2003 was a
through their Bank Account. Out of the way, and also to encourage youngsters to learn to closely involved in this ministry as he could landmark step of faith. We realized that both
they came forward to help us and all the preach gospel messages. speak to them in Hindi and Marathi. Bro. parents and children are so much engrossed
dealings were carried out through their Nitish Patel used to visit this area while on in the secular studies that they could not
Account. Thus we maintained absolute The burden of sharing the Gospel in the vacation. After the home call of Bro. Ivan Standard, practically they have no time for
transparency in the dealing. At this juncture neighborhood was heavy upon our hearts. Desai, Bro. Georgekutty, Br.Daniel Jadhav any assembly meetings including on
we cannot forget the help rendered to us by So for a few years we could organize and other brethren continued this ministry for Sundays.
Bro. James Varghese in accounting. Many conventions and it was held at St. Francis a short time. But later on it could not This scenario continues in 11th and 12th
were motivated by our experience. Technical Institute. It was organized as Good continued. Now with the help of sister Baby, Standard also. After 12th, children join
News Festival, Festival of Peace, and the Assembly sisters are trying professional
Extension of Assembly Hall. Festival of Hope. Brother George to revive the gospel activity in that area. courses away from home. Practically they
Assembly Hall extension was another Dawson, Bro. John Kurian, Bro. John P have no time to study the Scriptures. We
miracle that happened in our midst. Within a Thomas and Bro. Shalu T.Ninan were the Bible Study and Prayer meetings realized, if this trend continues we will lose
short period, we realized that our place of speakers at these Gospel campaigns. Bible studies and prayer meetings were held our generations. Keeping this in mind
gathering was very small. Assembly grew in Again, we could not continue these efforts on Thursdays for many years. Recently it Assembly prayerfully decided to start the
number and there was no room to sit. Visitors due lack of place. St. Francis authorities was changed to Wednesdays from 7.30 pm ABC for Teens as a residential program for
had to leave the Assembly hall due to lack of refused to grant us permission due to to 9 pm. This is a pre arranged meeting and one week. We enroll children during their
seat. Again as an Assembly we knelt down change in the political atmosphere. teaching summer vacations and provide them with
responsibility is assigned to men who are sound doctrinal teachings with the help

of able men of God. When we turn back and see how our Lord An Elder's Epistle
guided us as an Assembly during the last
Conferences twenty- years, our hearts are over enjoyed Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the
In Nov 1994 we organized a conference of His provision in the past, He was faithful in
Mumbai Evangelists and their families. leading us towards the still waters and Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Around 13 Evangelists and their families made us to lie down in green pastures. When
could attend this conference. It was held at we passed through the dark valleys, we I rejoice greatly in the Lord and I am exceedingly
St. Francis ITI hostel (now Management could feel His presence with us. For
Institute). Bro. John Kurian and Nitish Patel tomorrow, we have His promises and delighted that CBA, Borivali, is completing 25 years of
were the speakers. Primary intention was to assurance that surely goodness and mercy
get to know the Evangelists and their family shall follow us all the days of our life. her existence on the 29th of September, 2016. The Lord
closer and extend our prayer support. That
conference was a memorable event. “They shall utter the memory of Your great established this Assembly testimony on the 29th of
goodness, And shall sing of Your
Prophecy conference was held in Jan 2009 righteousness.” Ps.145:7 September, 1991. Since then this candlestick has been
at Vinayalaya, Andheri. Many Evangelists
and Elders from Maharashtra came and burning bright in the hand of the Lord in Borivali, one of
attended this program. A Few participants
from other States also joined in this the suburbs of Mumbai. And it is all because of His great
conference. Bro. Phil Coulson from UK was
the main speaker. faithfulness. DanielJadhav
I have been graciously bestowed upon by the Holy Spirit to
Moreover, we could conduct a leadership
conference for Evangelist, Elders and serve the Lord in this Assembly in my feeble capacities, according to the spiritual
Deacons. Topic was Assembly leadership.
Bro. Varghese Kurian and Thomson B gifts the Lord Himself has given to me.
Thomas were the speakers.
On this God given occasion, we as an Assembly look back and perceive the
Commendation for the Lord's work.
On 31st January, 2009, the Assembly unseen mighty hand of the Lord leading us and guiding, us as we complete 25
commended Bro. Koshy Mathew for the full
time ministry. The Lord is using him mightily years of our existence here in the land of living in India. Each member can surely
in His vineyard.
testify that the Lord has richly blessed us spiritually in all the areas of Christian life,
Youngsters' activity
In recent years, a good number of in and through this Assembly. In valleys and in the mountains, as an Assembly, the
youngsters have joined the Assembly
fellowship. They have monthly meetings for Lord has helped us. Truly with Prophet Samuel of old, we can assuredly say that
Bible study and also various other activities
like Children's Club, website ministry etc. "He is our Ebenezer", "Hitherto hath the LORD helped us". (1Samuel7:12.)
Details are given elsewhere.
On this occasion we also introspect in the light of the Word of God and go ahead in

seeking to do His will individually as well as together as an Assembly, as to "Why

the Lord has kept us here as an Assembly and what does the Lord want or expect

from us?"

We are here to bear fruits for the Lord. We do understand fully well that without the

Lord we can do nothing. John 15:5: “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that

abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can

do nothing.” Therefore individually and collectively we must be always abiding in

Him and seeking to do His will. Only then we can bring unto Him various kinds of We are here to worship the heavenly Father. God has made us His worshippers.
spiritual fruits namely, fruits of righteousness, nine fold fruit of the Spirit and so on... This is our everlasting occupation. Father is seeking His worshippers to worship
We are here to grow in His grace and knowledge. 2Pe 3:18: But grow in grace, and Him in spirit and truth: Joh 4:23, 24. As holy priesthood we are called to offer up
in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. And also grow in the spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ: 1Pe 2:5.
knowledge of the Word of God (The Holy Scripture) Col_3:16: Let the word of Christ We are here to evangelize the world both by preaching the Word of the gospel of
dwell in you richly in all wisdom... grace and through our living testimony. According to the great commission: Mat
We are here to know His will. Col 1:9: For this cause we also,desire that ye might be 28:19, 20. We all without exception are called to preach the good tidings of
filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Our salvation to the perishing souls 1Cor 9:16, 1Pe 3:15. As royal priesthood we are
mind, filled with the Scriptures, will reveal the knowledge of God and His will to our called to show forth the praises (virtues) of him who has called us out of darkness
hearts. into His marvellous light: 1Pe 2:9. And as the children of Light we are called to shine
We are here to gain more and more of His image daily Rom 8:29 and be changed in for our Lord in this crooked and perverse generation, holding forth the word of life
the glorious image of His Son from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord 1Th_5:5, Php 2:16.
2Co 3:18. It is not imitation that produces likeness, but allowing our risen Lord with We are here to live holy and sanctified life which is the will of God 1Th 4:3, and
His resurrection power who is working in us to create His likeness. Our submission watch and wait for His soon coming Tit 2:11-14.
to Him will allow Him to complete His plan in us. We are here to suffer for His sake, if the need be according to God's will. Php 1:29,
We are here to know the love of Christ more deeply and intimately. Eph 3:19: And to 1Pe 3:17.
know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge that ye might be filled with all the Finally my dearly beloved saints, it's my sincere desire to serve the Lord acceptably
fullness of God. with reverence and Godly fear: Heb 12:28. And I do believe, you all will agree with
We are here to increase in love one to another. Love of God is shed abroad in our me and desire to serve the Lord in like manner. In fact all the saints around the
hearts by the Holy Spirit Rom 5:5, therefore we can love ALL believers without any globe should earnestly desire and yearn in their hearts to serve the Lord in this
exception and are called to walk in love Eph_5:2, and we must love one another 1Jn fashion!
3:11, 1Th 4:9. And seeing we love one another the people of this world will know that As we in Borivali Assembly commemorate 25th anniversary of CBA, Borivali, LET
we are the disciples of Lord Jesus Christ: John 13:34, 35 US ALL re-dedicate ourselves and re-kindle our first love and strive together to
We are here to be one in the Lord John 17:21 and manifest and maintain the unity of serve the Lord in true devotion and renewed vigor in the days and years ahead as
the Spirit in the bond of peace Eph 4:3. long as the Lord keeps us here or till He takes us into glory either by de-cease or in
We are here to continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in rapture!
breaking of bread, and in prayers: Act 2:42, not forsaking the assembling of Now finally brethren, 'The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and
ourselves together Heb 10:25. the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.' 2Co 13:14.
Bro Daniel Jadhav
CBA, Borivali.

What we believe What we preach
(Someessentialdoctrines) (SomeessentialorderofconductintheAssembly)

Purpose: “thou Shall Not Sow Thy Vineyard With Various Seeds” (Deut. 22:9) “Thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God” (1 Tim. 3:15)
“Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Cor. 14: 40)
1. To make aware of our statement of faith to all saints in the assembly.
2. To identify and prevent in 1. We expect a believer who wishes to continue in fellowship with the assembly to bring a
SCRIPTURE: We acknowledge the verbal, plenary inspiration of the WORD OF letter of commendation from the previous assembly in which he/she was having
GOD. We believe it is infallible and inerrant and GOD has revealed His whole mind to fellowship. (Rom. 16:1-2, Acts. 18:27, 2 Cor. 3: 1-2 Acts. 15:4)
us only through the 66 canonized books of the BIBLE. (2Pet. 1:21; 2Tim. 3:16; Dan. 2. Sisters should remain silent in the gatherings of the Assembly. They are not allowed to
12: 8-9; 2Pet. 3:15-16; Matt. 5: 17- 18; John 14:26, 16: 12-13) teach, lead or pray where brothers are present. They are at liberty to exercise their spiritual
TRINITY: We believe in the Doctrine of Trinity. God is one in essence but three in gifts at sisters gatherings. (1Cor. 14:34-35, 1Tim. 2: 8,11-12)
respect to Person. In other words, in the one being of God, there are three Persons, of 3. All Saints are expected to gather at all meetings of the Assembly. Forsake not the
one substance, power and eternity-Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Deut. 4: 35-39, 6:4, gathering of the saints (Heb. 10:25). Prior information of absence is appreciated which will
John 17: 1-3, Heb. 1:8, 2Cor. 3:17, John 10:38, John 1: 1-3, 1John 5:7) enable the saints to remember you in prayer. This will further strengthen the bond of
CHRIST: We believe In the Deity and humanity of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is perfect fellowship.
God and perfect man. He is impeccable. (Phil. 2:6-7, Heb. 4:15) 4. We oppose worldliness among saints. All the saints are expected to come properly
HOLY SPIRIT: We believe in the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit in all dressed in the Assembly. Dresses should be decent and modest not only in the assembly
believers. (John 14:16-17, 1Cor. 12:3, Rom. 8:14) but everywhere. (1Tim. 2:9, Titus2:12, Deut. 22:5)
Baptism of the Holy Spirit brings believers into the union with other believers in the 5. Glorify God in our body. (1Cor.6:20) Hence all believers are exhorted to abstain from
body of Christ. Baptism of the Holy Spirit occurs simultaneously to salvation and it is smoking, drinking, pan eating, etc. Our body is His temple. (1 cor. 6:19, 1Thess.4:4-7)
not experiential. It is historical. (1Cor. 12:13) 6. We also need restrictions in our body make-up. For eg. painting the face, using lipsticks,
Filling of the Holy Spirit is different from the baptism of the Spirit. It is a commandment: eyes coloured with kajal etc. Believers are requested to avoid all these things. (2Kings
“ Be continually being ” (Eph.5:18). Being under the complete control of the Spirit. It is 9:30, Ezek 23: 40, Jer. 4:30, 1Tim. 2:9-10, Rom. 12:2)
not a one time experience but rather a repeated experience which is essential for 7. Believers shall not join or involve in any worldly organisations (non-essential social
spiritual maturity and service. (Acts 4:31, 9:17-20, 1Cor. 3: 1-3) bodies) like Lions, Rotary, YS Men Clubs, Ladies Club, YMCA, Etc. (2Cor.6:14-16)
SALVATION: Man is a sinner Jesus Christ is the only Savior. Salvation is obtained by 8. Sisters are expected to retain long hair and cover their heads at Assembly Meetings. We
grace as a free gift from God through the precious blood of His Son Jesus Christ. discourage Boy -cuts. Men should not grow long hair nor make bald head (1Cor. 11:13-16,
( Rom. 6:23) Ezek. 44:20)
We believe in the eternal security of salvation of every believer (John 10:27-28). We 9. We encourage brothers and sisters sitting separately in the assembly. However, we do
distinguish the saved from the apostate. e.g. Judas Iscariot was an apostate (2Tim. not object husbands and wives sitting together as long as it does not offend anyone. (1Cor.
3:5, 1Jon 2:18-19) 14:40, 1Cor. 10:23-24)
CHURCH: We believe in the independence of the local Church and is governed by 10. Marriages, which are not according to the Scriptures, will not be announced for prayer
elders and deacons under the guidance and control of the Holy Spirit. (Rev. 1:2, Phil. and fellowship in the Assembly. (2 Cor. 6: 14, Lev. 18:6)
1:1, Acts 11:22-23) Both divorce and abortion are abominable. (Ex.20:13, Mar 10: 8-12, Mal. 2:16)
PROPHECY: We believe in the pre-tribulation rapture of all N.T. believers and 11. Only those who are born again and baptized will be received in the assembly
millennial reign of Christ on earth. (1Cor. 15:51, Rev. 3:10, 1Thes. 1:9-10, Rev. fellowship. So in relation to Baptism of a new believer, the elders will take the consensus of
20:4-6) the entire Assembly before making the final decision to baptize the person. (Act. 15:14,
1Pet. 5:3, Heb.13:17)
12. No public criticism of elders and deacons will be encouraged. Any complaint of
individual believer has to be brought to the attention of the elders in private for proper
discipline. (1Tim. 5:1, 19-20, Gal. 6:1, 1 Thes. 5: 13, 1Tim. 5:17, Heb. 13:17)

25YEARSOFGOD'SBLESSING it mostly consisted of young couples, a dedicated prayer of the brethren. With the
majority of them with small kids. Many of our initiative of Bro. Koshy Mathew, a gifted Bible
AWALKDOWNMEMORYLANE elderly brethren had gone to be teacher, our assembly could commence
with the Lord. Some of our brethren took a lot Assembly Bible Class (ABC for teens) for the
It was time for me to move from Sion to stop in IC Colony. of effort to teach the word continuously on benefit of young believers in Mumbai
Borivali on the 29thAugust, 1987. There many important subjects. As the number of assemblies; which are meant to give basic
was no assembly gathering in English With a great children in our assembly began to increase, teach- ings and continues to do so annually
beyond Santacruz in the western suburbs. Sunday school ministry was instituted. This till today. Our assembly could raise many
Even though there were a few brethren earnestness I was conducted immediately after Sunday spiritually talented young believers and now
staying in western suburb of Borivali, there morning worship meeting. they are useful in different parts of the world.
was no gathering of saints or any spiritual made a humble
outreach anywhere in those areas. A thirst As an assembly and body of Christ, in the All in all, at the end of 25 years, with one
within me and other brethren for spiritual suggestion to him past 25 years, we faced many problems on accord we can say,
food was born. Many of us felt the need for a spiritual matters as well as secular matters; “God is good all the time, and ALL the time,
spiritual activity in Borivali area and its to organize an but as a shining testimony of the assembly God IS good!!”
surroundings. In order to initiate a move we can say that all these were solved with
towards this we started gathering for prayer assembly
in our houses. Later on it resulted in Bible
Study classes that were conducted by many gathering in our
gifted servants of the Lord; both nationally
and abroad.Some are gone to be with the area. The same
Lord. Most of us have good memories of
those excellent Bible classes taken by those thing I shared to a JamesThomas
valuable Lord's servants.These classes close friend of
were taken in one of the class rooms of
St.Francis Technical School. Some of those mine, Bro. A. C. Rajan. As a result of much
teachers were Bro. Fred Kosin, who took
devotional classes for a few months prayer and effort and guidance of many
continuously from Psalms 23. The classes
continued with Lord's servants like Bro. brethren, the good Lord enabled us to
Charlie John, Bro. Thomson B. Thomas, Bro.
Nelson Thomas etc. establish an Assembly Testimony in Borivali

Almost every Sunday afternoon at around 25 years back. As an in infant assembly we
3:00 pm, an outreach was organized in the
Borivali, Kandivli area. The tracts and other had to cross over many hurdles and the Lord
leaflets were arranged by Bro. Joymon
Murungatheri. During this period, one fine lead us and blessed us through all these
morning I happened to meet Bro. Koshy
Mathew, a bible teacher, at the 206 last bus years.

Initially the Lord provided us a place for CHRISTIANBELIEVERSASSEMBLY2003
gathering at St. Francis Technical School CHRISTCIAHNRIBSTEILAIENVBEERLSI'EAVSESRESMABSLSYEMINBTLHYE2Y0E1A6R2003
regularly on Sundays for fellowship and
Thursdays for bible study. After few years,
the Lord enabled us to own a place in Sharon
Apartments and started our gathering there.
We cannot forget the whole hearted support
of other assemblies in this endeavour. When
the number of members increased the Lord
provided the adjacent area in 'Sharon' and
the place became more spacious. The whole
hearted co-operation and the oneness of
believers were evident in all activities of the
assembly.

The specialty of this new assembly was that

Fort Assembly- the meeting room Bethel Christian Assembly

Heed to the Scriptural Exhortations Bethel, 106 Prabhat Colony, Road No.6, Santacruz (E), Mumbai 400 055

We the elders of the Assembly at Fort , look back ,with much praise and thanksgiving , to “Holding forth the word of life” Phil.2:16
our blessed Lord , to the faithful ministry of the Borivali Assembly
,for the past 25 years , in the light of Apostle Paul's exhortation to the Ephesian elders - 18.09.2016
Acts20:17-38.
V 19,20- serving the Lord with all humility keeping back nothing . V 24 - the ministry which To: The Saints Gathered in the Lord at Borivali
I received from the Lord Jesus .
V 27 - I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God . Dearly Beloved,
V 35- And remember the words of the Lord Jesus that He said , ' It is more blessed to give
than to receive ' . Warm greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! We are grateful to God
V 36- And he knelt down and prayed with them all . Even as we live in a world which teaches Almighty for His unchangeable promise to the testimony that was established
us to ask - 'what is in it for me ?' , the way of in Borivali in the year 1991. We affectionately remember the initiative of a few believers
life and the words of Paul are a powerful reminder to all of us . The testimony of the from “Bethel
Borivali Assembly has set a good example in taking heed to the scriptural exhortations . Christian Assembly Santacruz” who laboured to establish a testimony in Borivali.

Your spiritual initiative in teaching the scriptural doctrines to the youth in a In the initial years we felt the vacuum created by the families who were very active in the
systematic manner through ABC for Teens have made an impact on many lives . local assembly at Bethel when they moved to Borivali. The Lord has honoured their decision
and now we see the fruits of their labour and effort.
Commendation of Br.Koshy Mathew for the ministry of the gospel and scripture
teaching to the wider body of Christ , the church has set a good example at a time , We acknowledge the ministry of the local assembly at Borivali in equipping the saints and
where the principles and practice of commendation is not properly understood by the ministry for the teens in the city of Mumbai.
many churches .
As you celebrate God's grace and faithfulness that has been showered upon you for the last
Your obedience of the Lord and honouring of the word of God in maintaining the 25 years, our earnest prayer is that, “May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.”
Assembly testimony, many spiritual activities and ministry is a great (Num 6:25) With earnest prayers!
encouragement to us .
In Christ
Our prayer for you is as recorded in Hebrew 13:20,21 and Jude 24 & 25. Elders
Fort Assembly - Meeting Room The Elders

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in the
breaking of bread, and in prayers”…Acts 2:42

Be a lighthouse on a rocky shore

Visitors It has been my pleasure to feed my FredandJennyKosin
memories over the last 25 years with the
THEYWEREMENSENTBYGOD gathering of the Lord's people in Borivali. One who gave Himself for her. It is not limited
It was a joy to be one of the first to serve the to the Lord's Supper though it might be a
congregation in those early days of the chief opportunity to offer our worship. Rom
formation of what has become the Borivali 12:1-2 commands much more than an hour
Brethren Assembly. Our studies centered on on the Lord's Day for Worship.
the 23rd Psalm; The Lord's care for His
people under the metaphor of the Shepherd. The word "fellowship" is the idea of sharing in
We are blessed to know you have continued the ministry and service of the church. The
to enjoy and appreciate the care of this Body of Christ is the metaphor which sees
wonderful Lord who is the shepherd of the the wonderful and personal interrelationship
sheep and gave His life for the flock. of the members to each other and to the head
- Christ Himself. Every member of our body
Your future looms large now with the shares in the others in every activity of the
celebration of the Lord's faithfulness over body. Not all are of equal glory but God has
these many years. So where do you go from placed each member as it has pleased Him.
here? Ever keep before you the three The members serve not only each other but
priorities or purposes of the church. The first serve and are served by Head. The vitality of
is Worship. The second is Fellowship. The the body reveals that as the bride shows love
third is Evangelism. Worship is what the Lord to the Bridegroom, so the Body teaches us
gets from His church. Fellowship is what the that the life of the body is consistent to every
family of God gets from the church. member of the body.
And Evangelism is what the world receives
from the church.

The balance of these three makes for a
healthy gathering of believers. Worship is
rst. It is the expression of our love for the
Lord as the bride loves the bridegroom. For
each activity and ministry we must ask,
"What will the Lord get from this ministry or
activity?” The intimate relationship is seen in
the church as the bride of Christ honoring the

"Evangelism" is what the world needs from the church and desire the enjoyment of each The Lighthouse at Borivali
the church. The good news of the gospel other while demonstrating devotion and
must be proclaimed loud and clear to all glory to the Head of the Body. The world Happy to hear that the Borivali Assembly is celebrating 25 years JamesVarghese
around us. It is easy to be complacent in our around is waiting for the precious Gospel of of God's faithfulness . I remember the good times of fellowship
salvation, our fellowship and the blessing of Grace , which is a message that must be with all the members in the Assembly on the Lord's Day and
our Savior losing the passion and preached and communicated to all around also being part of the bible studies prior to establishment of the local
compassion for the lost that are without us. We are commissioned and challenged by assembly at Borivali.
Christ in our World. The metaphor of the the Lord go into all the world with the
sanctuary with its stained glass windows is a message of Light. As a matter of encouragement, I would like to share 10 characteristics of a local assembly as
suitable illustration of the beauty of the seen in Ps. 144:
windows being the means of the light shining We pray that each of you will faithfully have
to those outside the church and inviting them placed on their heart a profound concern for 1)V.1 – The place a believer is nurtured by the true source of Strength “The Lord my Strength”
in to enjoy the light. Alternatively the building those who have never heard as well as those
might aptly be a lighthouse on a rocky shore who walk with us in this world. May the life 2)V1. bb- The place where the believers strength and skill are perfected: training for both the
with a beacon of light warning and inviting also of Christ be manifest in our mortal flesh. difficult and delicate situations of life-“ hands to war and ngers to ght ”
others to enjoy the warmth of the lighthouse
and warn them of the dangers of the rocky "Be faithful unto death and He will give..." 3)V9- A place where spontaneous and true Worship is poured out from an overwhelming hearts-
shore below. “A new song...”
With special love and prayers
The church is the habitation of God by the for your continuation and
Spirit, composed of living stones touched by growth in grace.
Fred and Jenny Kosin
the Lord and becoming a living temple of
glory for the communication of the good news 4)V10- A place for the salvation for sinners and sanctification for the believers.

of the Gospel. 5)V12- where the young believers in the Lord are marked with Spiritual Maturity and Beauty-
“sons...grown up in their youth and daughters…similitude of a palace”
So may the next 25 years be a wonderful
display of Worship of the Lord manifesting 6)V13- No dearth of Spirit filled, soul impacting, teaching of the word-“ Our garners be full”
the love we have for the Bridegroom from the
church as His bride. May the fellowship of the 7)V13bb: A place where there is Spiritual birth, renewal and revival.-“Sheep may bring forth...”
family be so vital that no one will want to miss
a meeting because they need the fellowship 8)V14: Labor is cheerfully provided- “ our oxen be strong ”
of the family. May each one
draw from the other and 9)V14bb: The enemy is kept outside the gate-“ No breaking in nor going out ”
contribute to the life of the body.
Many will see the gathering of 10)V14cc: Faith and content silence are at work-“ No complaining ”

What does God get from His church? I gladly extend my felicitations and prayers for you all in the Assembly's important milestone, and
What do we as the church get from the church? in its journey to continue as a Lighthouse in Borivali.

What does the world get from the church?

A Shining Light precious. This preciousness is seen in the light of the world” (Mt.5.14), individually and
fact that the Lord loved the church and gave collectively. The light to emanate is the 'word
It gives me great joy to note that the used for the local Himself for it on the cross (Eph.5.2). He of life' (Phil.2.15). This calls for the duties of
Borivali Christian Assembly is completing churches. This purchased it for Himself with His blood evangelization and edification, to sinners
quarter of a century, since its inception. metaphor teaches (Acts.20.28). And, Peter says he was and saints respectively.
During these years the assembly has made certain beautiful witness to the sufferings of the Lord for On its Silver Jubilee, for the saints at Borivali
a pattern for others with their initiatives and truths, of which, redeeming her (1 Pt.5.1). These show how Christian assembly, it is worth remembering
involvement in the work of the Lord in the city three of them may precious the gatherings of the saints in each these desires and duties the Lord has for
of Mumbai and elsewhere. On its silver be noted. place are unto the Lord. them. May the Lord give all grace and help to
jubilee, I earnestly desire and pray that the the assembly to delight in what they are to
Lord would make this testimony abound in Assembly must be Assembly is planted in its locality with divine the Lord and at the same time have more
the service of the Lord. I am privileged to self sufcient purposes. commitment to the duties God has intended
have been asked to write few words of Each local A lamp stand is kept in a place to give light to for them in the world.
appreciation. assembly must be others. The Lord said, “As long as I am in this world” (Mt.5.14), individually and collectively.
self-sufficient in administration, propagation world I am the light of the world” (Jn.9.5). The light to emanate is the 'word of life'
My association with the Borivali assembly is and in material matters. This is seen in the Though as God He is everywhere He has (Phil.2.15). This calls for the duties of
from its beginning. The ABC for Teens, fact that, unlike the menorah in the Temple, now made heaven His abode. Now the Lord evangelization and edification, to sinners
conducted each year for the past one and there were 'seven' candlesticks in John's says to all those who follow Him, “You are the and saints respectively.
half decades, teaching doctrinal truths to the vision. Menorah had seven branches from
young minds and well accepted by the the middle stump. But 'the seven golden
believers, is being conducted with their lamp stands' were independent one from
initiative and burden alone. All these years, another. This shows that the Lord desires
without intermission, the assembly has self-sufficiency for each entity. This is also
associated me also in this ministry. Other evident in the first epistle to the Corinthians,
conferences, conventions and ministries in the Magna Carta for the local assemblies.
various means, specially through Internet, Self-sufficiency must be attained in matters
have also been very effective. These are just of administration (1 Cor. 6. 2-4), propagation
few things for which the assembly is known of the gospel (15.58) and in material matters
for. Without leadership with vision and (16.1, 2). Like an individual lamp stand each
commitment these could not have been assembly must stand on its own legs, so to
accomplished. May the Lord keep it glowing say, while keeping fellowship with those who
and growing for the glory of the Lord. walk in the same light.
A few words on the desires of the Lord about
each local assembly would not be out of Assembly is precious in the sight of the Lord.
place here. This is seen in the metaphor, the Notice that the lamp stands were made of
“Seven Golden lamp stands” (Rev.1.12, 20), gold. This shows that each assembly is

GOD'SVISIONFORHISCHURCH “ FRAGRANCE”ANDTHEHOUSE
WASFILLEDWITH
DR.ALEXANDERKURIAN(DALLAS,USA)

God's grace, goodness and church, commissioned by the sovereign What a joy it is to know that the eliminated the generation gap issues,
faithfulness have been obvious in Lord to be His representative agency in saints at Christian Believers achieved optimum talent development and
the life of Borivali assembly for the history and the most important institution on Assembly, Borivali, has crossed utilization and wonderfully maintained a
last 25 years. These years have been earth. The church is not an accident of the 25 year mile stone of gathering around healthy and hearty unity.
marked by visible blessings from God. I history, but the very center of the eternal the Saviour to Praise Him.
personally cherish the sweet memories of purpose of God. Take the future steps to Let these prayerfully inked words humble all
visiting the assembly and ministering God's demonstrate this intentionally. Every time they gather and are strengthened who read it, to depend more and more in the
precious Word to the people of God. I was May the Lord grant you the grace and vision in quality and quantity, the very spikenard Lord, who finds pleasure, in strengthening
very encouraged by their heartfelt to focus on the next 25 years, if the Lord offered at the Lord's feet .The assembly also the weak, revealing His words to the newly
appreciation for my Gospel-centered and tarries, to be consumed more with God's made sure that it filled the air with its saved and using those that have been
Christ –focused Bible exposition among vision for His church, and thus to be a fragrance in and around Mumbai too. This deemed lost by the world.
them. relevant church that does not exist for itself pace and growth of ministry was not just the I surely look forward to hearing from the Lord,
but for the praise of His glory. struggle to exist or to survive, but also to uttering to the Assembly Leadership , “thou
The importance of remembering the past motivate all who came in touch with the good and faithful servants, come, rejoice
has always been vital to God's people. Of assembly. with your Master!!”
equal importance is looking forward to the The grace and ease with which the elders
future with a vision where we want to go. My and believers have functioned in the past, Content in Christ and His Cross
prayer for Borivali assembly's future is that has forced me to consider your pattern and Evg. George MATHEW (Uran)
you may continue to focus on God's vision mode, as the assembly has successfully
for His church – to be a biblicaly oriented

Felicitation from M.C.VARGHESE&GRACYVARGHESE The church is the gate of heaven
CHENNAI BLESSTHELORD,OMYSOUL:ANDALLTHATISWITHINMEBLESSHISHOLYNAME.
BLESSTHELORD,OMYSOUL,ANDFORGETNOTALLHISBENEFITS(PSALM103.1-2).

Praise be to the Lord! John 15:12. M.CVarghese&GracyVarghese Looking into the past and thanking God
for His goodness and His countless
It gives me great joy in writing a few lines We are grateful to our Lord for using our blessings is a wonderful sign of
about our beloved Borivali Assembly. I brothers in such a wondrous way! gratitude. 25 years since its inception, God
am happy to hear that the Assembly is has given Christian Believers' Assembly,
bringing out a Souvenir to mark its 25 years When they moved from Santacruz to Borivali Borivali, this opportunity and we praise God
of faithful Christian Testimony- faithful in the they had no place to worship on Sundays. By for His goodness towards you.
teaching of Biblical doctrines and practicing As I look back and see the way our God has
it impartially in the Assembly. As far as I know thus far led the assembly, I cherish the
they speak the Truth in Love”. memories I created during the Bible study
series I had with them for about 6 months. I
I fondly remember that at least half a dozen was encouraged by their punctuality and
families now worshipping in Borivali sincere interest in God's Word. I also
Assembly were part of the Santacruz enjoyed their warm welcome and hospitality
(Bethel) Assembly 25 years ago. Bro. Koshy every time I visited them for ministry. Praise
Mathew Family, Bro. Ivan Desai Family, God for the consistent efforts of the oversight
of Borivali assembly to teach God's Word
It was the God given resolve of these brothers that they should start an Assembly in Borivali only systematically to the younger generation. AmisLopis
after two or three souls were saved there- It happened very soon and then they desired to leave our The one week program called ABC for teens
fellowship. Reluctantly we agreed to part company with them. Around the same time few believers which is held every year is remarkable. This will enter those pearly gates with great joy
from Santacruz Assembly desired to start a gathering at Sahar Airport Area- They also left program has made spiritual impact in the and a tumultuous shout of celebration.
with our prayer support. lives of many youngsters in various ways. I In the Old Testament the word gate is used in
also praise God for their concern and burden the context of a place in a city where
Baker Family and Jadhav Family are some the grace of God, I had good relation with few forHis work in different parts of Maharashtra. administration and social justice is meted
to name a few. Dr. Desai and family would Franciscan brothers in Borivali and they For God, the supreme and most precious out.
come in the morning for Worship Meeting permitted us to gather in the Technical entity (institute) on this earth is none other God's assembly is administered and run by
and would go back only in the evening after Institute on Sundays only. than His church (the redeemed people). The not earthly principles but by God's principles.
the Gospel Meetings. Bros. Koshy Mathew, Eventually the Lord provided a better place church is the house of God (1 Tim 3.15) I am sure that Borivali assembly will hold
Ivan Desai, Johnny Baker and Daniel to gather. My family and I had the privilege of because He dwells there, His family (true forth these truths, until the return of Lord
Jadhav were actively used in the Santacruz worshipping the Lord along with the believers) gathers there and His Jesus Christ for His church, as they have
Assembly in Teaching, Preaching and believers and with you all on few occasions. unchangeable rules (doctrines) are been doing it for the last 25 years.
Translation to Hindi etc, for the edification of May God bless your efforts more and more- observed there. The church is the gate of The existence of God's assembly (God's
the Saint and the furtherance of the Gospel. Maranatha! heaven (Gen 28.17). The church today is at people) on the face of this earth is for His
the threshold of the heavenly gate; and when cause. May the Lord help Borivali assembly
the Lord comes for His bride, the church, we and strengthen them to fulfill His purposes in
and around this great Mumbai city and
elsewhere. May His name be glorified.

Dwell together in unity! ·We share the common faith in God and encouraging, strengthening, comforting
in His Word (Titus 1:4; Acts 2:42) one another and showing hospitality to
“BEHOLD,HOWGOODANDHOWPLEASANTITISFORBRETHRENTO each other (Hebrews 10:24-25;
·We have a common care for one and Proverbs 27:17; Malachi 3:16; 1 Peter
DWELLTOGETHERINUNITY!”(PSALM133:1) other (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32; Romans 4:9; Philemon v. 20)
12:15; 15:1-2; 1 Corinthians 12:26-27; 1
The story of Robinson Crusoe, NitishPatel Corinthians 14:11-12; 1 Thessalonians MARRINGOFFELLOWSHIP
based on a true story, of a ship 4:18; 5:11) Fellowship can be marred by wolves in
wrecked mariner living for years They jointly owned the boat sheep's clothing (Acts 20:29-31); by men
alone on a desert island, is a thrilling They jointly worked together We share a common purpose in with a Diotrephes character (3 John vv. 9-
account of how resourceful a person can They jointly shared the prots evangelism and service (Acts 1:14; 10) and by doctrinal and moral sin (1
be when faced with complete isolation. They jointly bore any loss also Romans 16:3; Philippians 1:5; Corinthians 5:5-6). It can also be marred
Nehemiah 4:6; Galatians 2:9; by spiritual pride, legality, an unforgiving
It is impossible to be a 'Robin Crusoe Fellowship is more than just attendance Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) spirit, and worldliness of believers whose
Christian.' We cannot be isolated from at meetings! It is a partnership of first priority in life is not the house of God.
other Christians and live alone. The Lord believers who have to all work together MAINTENANCEOFFELLOWSHIP
Jesus did not just come to save as a team. This precious fellowship needs to be May the Lord continue to preserve the
individuals but to create a new maintained. assembly, build up the believers and
community. Since 1991, Borivali MARKSOFFELLOWSHIP increase its numbers with souls regularly
assembly has been a community of We share many things as believers. ·“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the saved till the Lord Jesus returns.
Christian fellowship and testimony for Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians
God. As we celebrate 25 years of God's We share the same Father and are 4:3)
blessing, let us remind ourselves of the members of the same family (Matthew
privileges and responsibilities of 23:9; 1 John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:9; It is maintained by abiding in the Vine
Christian fellowship. Philippians 2:1; 1 John 1:7) (John 15:5); walking in the light (1 John
1:6-7); dining with Christ (Revelation
MEANINGOFFELLOWSHIP We share the common experience of 3:20); and by following the Shepherd
What does the word “fellowship” mean salvation (Jude v. 3;Philippians 3:10) (John 10:16)
and what does it involve? There are two
words in the Greek, 'koinonia', meaning It is maintained by constant kindness,
a “sharing in common” and 'metochos' tenderheartedness, forgiveness and
translated as “partners” in fishing (Luke forbearing one another when offended
5:7) (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13;
We can say fellowship is fellows in a ship! James 5:16; Romans 15:1-2)
This means they entered into an Fellowship needs to be strengthened by
agreement to work together. They could praying for all the believers,
not fish alone but as a team.

Weeping & Winning Borivali for Christ word, thus saints are well equipped, edified, Pentecost and gathered a multitude, of both
enriched, enlightened and the testimony is men and women; wonders, the works of the
"THEYTHATSOWINTEARSSHALLREAPINJOY"PS.126:5 well preserved scripturally to the praise of Lord.
His glory. A little, is but much when God is in
I was to become a Roman Catholic JoyMuringatheri it. "Though thy beginning was small, yet thy THEPOWEROFGOD.
Priest, but God made me a royal end should greatly increase". We have the four-fold power of God for
priest. Being a royal priest, I always and holiness, a place where heaven is presenting the gospel of our Lord Jesus
go out to show forth the excellencies, opened, the house of God which is the THEPURPOSEOFGOD: Christ.
virtues, praises of the person of Jesus church of the living God, the pillar and firm It is my exercise to encourage the Borivali Act.1:8,Here we have the power of the Holy
Christ our Lord. Right from my foundation of truth. assembly to continue to engage in reaching Spirit. We are in dwelt by the Holy Spirit.
conversion and call, way back in 1982, out to the unreached, which is the unique When we live in conscience of His presence
standing at every street and village A small beginning with a few brethren is what purpose of God in placing the assembly divine, in constant fellowship with the Lord,
around Kota, Rajasthan and Delhi and commenced 25 years ago is grown with a testimony at Borivali. The world is where He the spirit of God gives us the enabling and we
finally at and around Vasai and in the commendable ministry of mentoring young was rejected, but kept He us as His are filled with the Holy Spirit for the specific
local train from Virar to Churchgate, in people thro' ABC and supporting practically credentials, evidences, witnesses.Act.1:8. service. Thus we will be exercised by the
fellowship with Bethel Christian several needy servants of God in Mumbai As we have come to the closing days of the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the
Assembly, Santacruz, Mumbai, we and around India. Glad to say for the glory of assembly testimony, assemblies have failed God given task.
would blow the trumpet of the glorious God that this assembly is gifted in the to be His witnesses. It is pictured in Then secondly, we have the power of prayer.
gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. It was a authoritative teaching of God's precious Laodicea. Therefore, the Lord approached It was the priority of our Lord. (Mk.1:35) and it
God given open door in Borivali together them as the Faithful and True witness. was the priority of the apostle(Act.6:4) It was
with the saints, who are residents of (Rev.3:14.) the priority of the early
Borivali, but were in fellowship with Christian(Act.1:14).Here we have the first
Bethel Christian Assembly and Zion THEPATTERNOFGOD: prayer meeting in New TestatmentSo, it must
assembly, to commence the gospel When we look at the mandate given by our be our priority.
work. Where there is the preaching of the Lord Jesus Christ in Mt.28:18-20, we find "
gospel, there the Lord is glorified and Go ye, therefore”and in Lk.5:4“Launch out Thirdly, we have the power of the fasting
blessing follows. Thus, the Lord blessed into the deep”Christians are those who are prayer. It is not taught generally in the
the ministry and it did please the Lord to on the road, telling the world what the Lord assemblies.
establish an assembly testimony in has done for us on the cross of Calvary. We We find its teaching and the practice in Old
Borivali 25 years ago.My family and I join were blind, but now we see. We don't have to Testament and New Testament. Ezra 8:11,
with the saints at Borivali assembly in be an eloquent preacher, but we can give out Neh.1:4. Ch.9:1, Dan.1:3,
praising God for His faithfulness and tracts and the gospel. One tract is sufficient Mt.6:16,17,9:15,17:20,21,Act.13:2,3,
blessing upon the testimony to the for the salvation of the soul and the expense 14:23,1Cori.7:5. The outcome of fasting
person of Christ. A place where our of the soul is more than the world. "They that prayer makes us as 'light that break forth as
blessed Lord dwells in grace, blessing go down to the sea in ships, do business in the morning and we shall be like watered
great waters; these see the works of the Lord garden... Like a spring of water whose
and His wonders in the deep.Ps.107:23, 24. water's fail not.'Isa.58:8,11.
Peter did see a great multitude of fish in the
deep which is became significant when he Fourthly, the 'power of tears.' Ps.126:5,
did cast the gospel net on the day of 6.This verse is both retrospective and

prospective. The exile was like a seed-time, THEPROCLAMATION. guide you by the Holy Spirit to stand as holy
but Jeremiah had foretold there would be a We find the early Christians assembled priests within the veil, bearing the people of
harvest. Imagine a farmer almost out of food, together with one mind in prayer before the Borivali, pleading for their salvation that the
taking some of his dwindling store and Lord in Acts ch.1.First the Lord spoke to Lord may pluck them as a brand out of hell,
sowing it with tears in expectation of a good them, then they spoke to the Lord and finally none should perish, but come to the saving
harvest. So, the sorrowing Jews in captivity Peter stood up in the midstProclaiming the knowledge of our blessed Lord and Saviour
wept as they cast the precious seed into the first sermon centered in tof Person of the Jesus Christ. Oh Lord grant us Borivali.
ground but the joyful harvest of their Lord Jesus Christ. We find 3 indispensable Thus, we may weep.....weeping for the soul
deliverance followed. We must sow in tears truths. Servant is empowered, Scripture is are the winners of souls. 'He that winneth
the seed of the gospel, but always in hope for expounded and Saviour is exalted. souls is wise.'
a joyful harvest.
We have a lovely illustration in Joshua
We must bring the perishing soul before the ch.6.We have 7 days. We have Joshua the
Lord in prayer. The ground should become leader and the People of God, moving at the
wet when we pray for their salvation. We word of God, six days going around the city of
read in Jere.13:17”If ye will not hear, my soul Jericho, once a day, and on the seventh day
shall weep in secret place for your pride and early in the morning going around the city
mine eye shall weep sore and run down with seven times and at seventh time when the
tears”Not a single drop of tear goes waste. priests blow the trumpets, Joshua said unto
The Lord takes them drop by drop and puts the people, Shout; for the Lord hath given
them in His bottle and they are there in the you the city. One shout! While they were
record of heaven and in due course He will going around the city, their eyes were upon
remember and help us reap a big harvest the Ark. The Ark is the picture of the
with unspeakable joy. The Lord understands presence of the Lord. On the day of
the language of tears. Don't we read in Pentecost, the early Christian assembled
Isa.38:5" I have heard your prayers and I together in prayer and then one shout of
have seen your tears". Peter, reaped a big harvest. We have many
preaching, but find no time in waiting on the
When was the last you shed tears for the Lord.
perishing soul? Our Lord wept 3 times. He
wept at the grave of Lazarus. He wept over Waiting upon the Lord often turns darkness
Jerusalem and He wept in Gethsemane. into light, the glorious gospel which is power
Tears ran on His glorious face. The evidence unto salvation will shine in every hears. We
of the reality of the true humanity of our must come before the gate of heaven, fall on
blessed Lord, is the One who is none other our knees and gather the people of Borivali
but the Man of sorrows. His eyes are as the before the throne of grace in tears. We must
eyes of doves by the rivers of waters, be up on the mountain in communion with
washed with milk and set as gems in their God, then heaven will shed light upon the
enclosures. preaching of the gospel. May the Lord
burden your heart for the perishing souls and

FULFILLINGGOD'SPURPOSES GIVELIGHTTOTHE
INTHECITYOFMUMBAI NEWGENERATION

ByEJStephen ByNelsonThomas

It is a matter of great joy that the Assembly knowledge of Salvation. It gives me much joy to know that Borivali freedom to minister here due to their
testimony at Borivalli is completing 25 Initially the ABC was conducted at Fort Assembly is celebrating God's earnestness and receptive attitude.
years now. We can thank the Lord for His Assembly from 8 am – 12 noon Monday – faithfulness for the past 25 wonderful No wonder the Lord is using them mightily for
faithfulness and mercies in sustaining this Saturday. It was indeed very pleasing to see years. the benefit of many in the city of Mumbai and
Assembly testimony. how the brothers and sisters of Borivalli Looking back at the path that we tread elsewhere. The annually conducted ABC for
I was always pleased to notice their unity, Assembly in unity and great harmony took definitely touches our hearts and minds. It Teens program could inculcate in our
harmony and desire to study the Word of care of various responsibilities of ABC turn makes us humble as well as grateful before children an appetite for God's word. The
God. Lord gave me an opportunity to teach by turn before they all left for their offices. the Lord, who graciously brought us so far. In united efforts of the whole assembly in all
the Word of God in this Assembly. But I am Saturday evening was a grand finale. Along the book of Joshua, from Gilgal through such ministries are very evident and italso
far more pleased with their endeavour to with Dr. Koshy Mathew and Bro.Rajan late Shechem, we can notice that a number of serves as an example to others.
teach the Scriptural truths to the Bro. Ivan Desai played a very exemplary role memorial stones were erected. (Joshua 4:5; As the Borivali brethren are at another
children/youths in an intense manner after in the Assembly and in the arrangements for 24:26, 27). Just as each memorial stone milestone in their pilgrim journey, my earnest
their X exams. ABC. erected stands as a monument to various prayer is that the Lord may continue to keep
The Lord helped the Oversight of Borivalli Later on the ABC has been conducted at incidents in the lives of the Israelites, so too, you strong and united, holding on to the word
Assembly to discern the need of the Vinalyala, Andheri as a residential brethren at Borivali are at such a milestone of truth.
youngsters who were deprived of attending programme for one week. The Lord has today . These fond memories can be Once again let me take you to the book of
any of the Assembly meetings throughout richly blessed this initiative of the Borivalli imparted to give light to the new generation. Joshua where the Lord tells Joshua, “You are
the year of their X/XII studies due to their Assembly and I am sure the whole Assembly I remember every step that led to the old, advanced in years, and there remains
attendance in the coaching classes. They is also immensely benefited. formation as well as the growth of this local very much land yet to be possessed”(Joshua
were not able to attend any spiritual activity The faithful Borivalli Assembly was used by congregation. One of the blessings behind 13:1) He had fought many battles and won
during the entire year. Addressing this need the Lord to fulfill His good purposes for the this assembly is that the brethren whom the many victories, yet he could not
by the Oversight of the Borivalli Assembly city of Mumbai and neighbouring cities. Lord used to establish this assembly were becomplacent now.
developed the Assembly Bible Class (ABC) May this Assembly continue to shine forth for men with vision and conviction. They were Same thing is true with you, beloved
in ………. It was a timely effort to bring them the Lord. clear of the New Testament Church brethren. You have much more to do in and
back into some spiritual relationship with the May His name be glorified. principles and always strived to maintain around Borivali. Achievements of the past
Lord and also for leading many to the purity in doctrine and practice. should only inspire you to go forward more
It was my privilege to visit this assembly a focused and vigorously. The harvest is
number of times and also share from God's always plenty. May the Lord bless and use
word. .The different Bible study series that I you as an assembly much more effectively in
could take was also a great learing curve for these rapidly changing circumstances.
me too. I have always felt a special joy and

Prayer: The need of the hour getting things done' as a part of our routine. keep talking for hours to a stranger; but to a
In the lives of most believers today there is friend …. any number of hours would not
A message for the believers in Borivali, as JohnKurian no meaningful, deep level communion with suffice. Only one who knows God intimately
you celebrate God's faithfulness to you as the father. As a result of this, life is boring, can spend time with Him and intimacy grows
that Jesus maintained. The very first miserable and monotonous. There is no as more time is spent with him. We need to
an assembly for the past 25 years. I recorded utterance of our Lord sheds light on rejoicing in the Lord always or experiencing pray earnestly that God might create in us a
cherish the memories of my fellowship His main concern in life – “the father's the abundant life the Lord Jesus promised to deep hunger to know Him.
with you in the past and want to remind business” (Luke 2:49). He spoke these give.
you of an essential ingredient for your words as He was found in the temple – 'the As we spend time with God, our intimacy with
Father's house', which is actually 'the House Prayer is declaring our total dependence on Him grows. Secrets are shared at the prayer
growth in the coming days of prayer' (Mark 11:17). Throughout His early the Lord and our allegiance to Him. In prayer closet (Ps. 25:14), impressions of what
life, He was always concerned about we are acknowledging our own inability and burdens the heart of God are made on our
People are always busy, especially in communing with the Father. At the opening weakness; we seek God's strength and heart, God's will is revealed (Ps.25: 12), our
the cities. They no time for anything. of His public ministry, as He was being wisdom as we seek the face of God. strength is renewed (Isa. 40:31) and His
In the midst of a very busy life style in baptized, He was seen praying (3:21). He Prayerlessness is a sign of our carnal pride glory is radiated through our lives (Ex.
cities like Mumbai, very few realize that comes to the public scene praying. and it boasts that things can be done in our 34:30). We will come to know God and His
some of the most important things in life are own power without God. No wonder families plan for our life and ministry. How can we
being missed out. In the pursuit of money If communion with God was so much are breaking up, quarrels and divisions fulfill His will for our life unless we know it?
and material things and the comforts of life, important to the Son of God while He was on among God's people are increasing, and
life itself gets lost! Less important things take this earth, how much more it has to be so for believers are becoming worldlier in their There is no substitute for spending time with
more of our time and attention and the things us too? The ease loving, comfort-loving outlook. We lack heavenly wisdom to handle God. A praying man will accomplish more
that really matter are pushed behind or Christendom today sees prayer as a ritual. the complicated problems of life. than a busy man. One of the greatest
ignored. Nothing worthwhile is being Prayer is offered 'for name sake' or 'for embarrassments many are going to face at
achieved and at the end of the day it is only People say they are busy. If someone is too the judgment seat of Christ will be the
heartaches and regrets. Wrong priorities busy that he cannot find time to pray, it smallness of their praying.
mar the beauty and the meaning of this only means that he is involved in something that
one life that God has given us. God has not intended for his life; he is busier So let us discipline ourselves to spend more
than what God has planned for him. We need time with God. Let us plan this time for God
When the Lord Jesus came as a perfect to learn to be satisfied with the lesser more precisely than we plan other things in
man, He showed us the type of life that God material things in order that we may find time life. May we 'withdraw often' to commune
intended every man to live. He became our to commune with God. The more material with our heavenly father. Shall we set a bulk
model in everything. Look at the priorities of things one has, the less time he will have for of our time apart to talk to Him and sort out
the life of Jesus as He lived in this world and God. A deliberate, disciplined effort is everything in our life according to His plan?
fulfilled God's plan for His life. needed in order to manage our time and Then we shall find real meaning in life and
prioritize things in life. experience fullness of joy. Above all, God's
Luke's gospel presents Jesus as a perfect heart will be pleased as He finds pleasure in
man and shows us the values and priorities At the root of prayerlessness is the lack of the company of those of us who wait upon
true knowledge of God. You cannot talk to a Him day and night.
God whom you hardly know. No one can

AFEWJUBILEETHOUGHTSAND servants by obeying the missionary call. A might change the nature and composition of
CHALLENGESONBORIVALIASSEMBLY few assemblies have come up in the vicinity the assembly and might pave the way for
of Borivali through the outreach activities of newer assemblies to be formed in the
The Jubilee was an opportunity God gave to the Borivali congregation. These are all vicinity. May God help the Borivali Assembly
His people, Israel, to look back at what had examples of the faithfulness of God to the to catch newer visions to meet the needs of
transpired among them in the past. It was saints at Borivali. the Greater Borivali Area for the glory of God!
also meant to prepare for the challenges that These lines cannot be concluded without I gratefully reminisce the innumerable
lay ahead (Leviticus 25). God expected His mentioning the name of our beloved brother opportunities given to me to minister the
people to examine whether they hade Ivan Desai who was one of the founders of Word at the meetings of the assembly and
travelled the right pathway of faith so far. He the Borivali Assembly. His labour of love and also to participate in the innovative Assembly
wanted them to look at the present level of spiritual leadership will be remembered by Bible Class for the Youth. I pray that God
spiritual walk to correct their ways. He those of us who knew him intimately. would continue to use the various ministries
expected them to rejuvenate themselves to As Borivali Assembly takes time off to praise of the Borivali Assembly to touch the lives of
walk the rest of the pathway according to His God for all that He has accomplished there the needy people of Borivali and beyond for
ordinances and laws. Any focused and goal during the past twenty five years, may they His glory and for the furtherance of His
oriented assembly of God's children would remind themselves of the challenges that lie kingdom.
do well to follow this example. Jubilee was ahead. The corrupt business environment
also an occasion to thank God for the way He OomenPhilip and materialism in the Mumbai area has
had led them so far and to praise Him for all boomed so much and so powerfully
the spiritual miracles that they had Twenty Five years is a long time, and it is time penetrating into the lives of Christian
experienced during the past. It was a time to to re-examine and evaluate the working of an believers. The negative influence of media is
confess the failures and weaknesses and to assembly. It involves examining their far greater than when the assembly was
rededicate themselves to greater spiritual spiritual as well as physical growth. There is started a quarter of a century back. Social
warfare. It was a time to tell the stories of no denying the fact that the Borivali evils of various kinds, family conflicts,
God's faithfulness to the assembly, its Assembly has expanded physically and are substance abuse, suicide, child and women
members and their families. The new now catering to the needs of a larger number abuse, mental illness, slum-linked problems
generation will need to hear the stories of of youth and children. Many have come and and the like are ever on the increase. All of
how God has led them so far. It is a time to gone away to other places, after getting a these needs are opportunities for the
pray and find newer challenges so that the taste of the rich ministry and fellowship at assembly to attempt to handle. Believers
assembly and its ministries can be Borivali which they have been able to apply need to be equipped to help people to get out
rededicated to meet those challenges. It is in their lives in new places. Hundreds of of the clutches of such social evil and peer
not a time of pageantry, but a celebration of God's servants, both national and and media pressures. As the assembly looks
the faithfulness of God to an assembly. international, have come to minister at forward, there may be newer ministry
Today, Christian Believers' Assembly, Borivali assembly which has enriched the initiatives like Biblical Counseling,
Borivali, Mumbai,, is challenged by the Lord ministries of the assembly. Many have gone Mentoring, Discipleship, Children's Clubs,
to set apart a time of confession, repentance, out from the assembly to become full time Girls' Clubs, Adolescent Programs, Slum
rededication and rejuvenation for the future. outreach, Suicide Prevention, Educational
Support Programs for the underprivileged
and the like to reach out and lead people to
Jesus Christ. Such need-based ministries

Jose Mathews 'Jabbok' The greatest challenge that the assemblies are facing these days is to defend
and practice the truth and the doctrine in its fullness. As the assembly
Behind KMC, movement draws closer to a history of two centuries, many have witnessed
and faced the challenges that have arisen against the doctrinal stand and
5th Cross, Attavar practices of the early fathers of this movement. Yet, because the basis for
the doctrine and practices of the assembly movement is the Scripture alone,
Mangalore - 575001 we still have a strong remnant standing bold for the truth of the word of
God, without any compromise. God in His mercy has gifted our Assemblies
To: with many teachers of the Word of God and has appointed Elders in each
local assembly to shepherd and lead the people of God in His will and way.
The Saints They are given the grace and resistance to withstand any trace of wrong
teachings and practices from making its way into the assemblies.
Christian Believers'
Our growing young generation that is exposed to almost everything in this
Assembly age of information, often come out with many questions and genuine doubts
even about the practices of the assemblies. The need of the day is not just to
Borivali draw a line of do's and don'ts before them, but to give them reasoning for our
faith and practices. They truly need good role models from our assemblies
Aim to train and nurture our generation who walk the talk. The role of the families like Aquila and Priscilla who took
extra initiative in equipping and training young men like Apollos is much
Dear Brethren in the Lord, needed in our Assemblies. Even though we are content in our ancestry and
Greetings in our Savior's name, heritage, it will be the greatest loss if we lose our generations. A local
Twenty ve years of God's faithfulness lled with His marvelous ways of assembly which gives proper attention to the children and youth in their
leading and guidance is a great occasion to gratefully remember and spiritual need will always have a better, and trained leadership for the
acknowledge. Nothing but the faithfulness of the Lord has made this future.
occasion so joyous. I still remember the good testimony I heard twenty ve
years ago, when some Brethren told me that a new Assembly gathering had The writer to the Hebrews says -" For though by this time you ought to be
begun at Borivali, Mumbai. I have had the privilege of visiting the teachers, you need someone to teach you again the rst principles of the
Christian Believers' Assembly, Borivali, a few times, for fellowship and
ministries. Today it is a great joy to see a well-established assembly,
nourished in the words of faith and of good Biblical doctrine, set as a lamp-
stand for His glory in that region. The Lord has given you a portion and a
share in catering to the great spiritual needs of the millions of people of the
vast Mumbai region. The assemblies and the saints around have always
witnessed how Christian Believers' Assembly, has been a blessing to many
and growing under the God-given leadership of the Local Assembly.

oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For Increasing and Abounding in Love!
everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness,
for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, To the saints and faithful brethren in JariWala
those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good Christ which are at Borivali: Grace be
and evil" (Heb.5:12-14). Over the period of time our aim must be to train unto you, and peace, from God our DISCOURAGEMENT”. So, dearly beloved,
and nurture our generations to be effective teachers and able leaders of our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Hitherto be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His
assemblies. hath the Lord helped us. Being confident of might.
this very thing, that He which hath begun a Another powerful weapon the enemy uses
On this joyous occasion when you gather to remember and thank the Lord for good work in you will perform it until the day rampantly is DIVISION. But you have an
His faithfulness over the past twenty ve years, I consider it a joy and of Jesus Christ; for it is God which worketh in unction from the Holy One, and you know all
privilege to add these words of felicitations. Christian Believers' Assembly, you both to will and to do of His good things. But the anointing which ye have
Borivali, has always been a blessing to many. My family and I pleasure. The Lord has promised to build His received of him abides in you, and you need
acknowledge the good fellowship we have always enjoyed with you. May the Church and give full protection to her from not that any man teach you: but as the same
Lord in the coming days and years bless you and use you for His glory and the powers of darkness. This includes the anointing teaches you of all things, and is
for the extension of His Kingdom. local church at Borivali and it is so wonderful truth, and is no lie, and even as it has taught
to know that you have been involved with the you, you shall abide in him. And may the Lord
Lovingly yours in the service of our Lord, work that God wants us to do till the Son of make you to increase and abound in love
God returns to takes usto the Father's one toward another, and toward all men, for
Jose Mathews, Mangalore House. For God is not unrighteous to forget love shall cover the multitude of sins. To the
your work and labour of love, which ye have end he may establish your hearts
showed towards his name, in that you have unblameable in holiness before God, even
ministered to the saints, and continue to our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus
minister. The church at Borivali is well known Christ with all his saints. But as touching
for the sound biblical teaching given to saints brotherly love ye need not that I write unto
there. Sound teaching has roven to be then you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to
eed of the horur today as false teaching of love one another … but we beseech you,
Biblical doctrines have become so prevalent brethren, that ye increase more and more
today.\.
The story is told of Satan proudly displaying
his weapons and tools he had been using in
the past six thousand years to destroy
mankind. In one of the booths there was just
one old, dirty piece of rag. The visitor asked
him, “Satan, what is this ? “. Satan said , “
This is my best tool to make the saints of
Christ weak and powerless. I call it

and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your Rev 3:8”. Ample fellowship & gifted Bibleteaching
own affairs, and to work with your hands, …
so that you may walk properly before (The last two paragraphs have been taken
outsiders and be dependent on no one. (This directly out of passages from the Bible and
whole paragraph has been taken from the has been passed on as his own writing. I am
Bible, without context nad without not too sure if this needs to be kept on)
reference.)
The Holy Spirit instructs us “…ye proclaim It has been my joy to work with the JohnnyVarghese
the Lord's death till He come.”. Let us Borivali assembly. I have been part of
NEVER forget this solemn commandment to t h e A B C f o r Te e n s o n s e v e r a l
preach the Glorious Gospel of the Blessed occasions. These have been opportunities
God committed to your trust. For I am not for me to study various topics and present
ashamed of the Gospel: for it is the power of them to the young people. I really
God unto salvation to everyone that appreciate Borivali Assembly for
believes. For though I preach the Gospel, I organising a camp like this every year. In
have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid today's climate, where the trend is to
upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not deliver to people what is likely to appeal to
the Gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I them, it is wonderful to see a stress on the
have a reward: but if against my will, a systematic, dedicated, teaching of God's
dispensation of the Gospel is committed word and apologetics. I thank Borivali
unto me. Let us ever be mindful of the assembly for inviting me to be a part of this
responsibility laid on us because the light of ministry. My wife and I have also been
the Glorious Gospel of Christ, who is the there for a Sunday School anniversary and
image of God, hath shined in our hearts, to assembly camp. I appreciate the high
give the light of the knowledge of the Glory of standards being set regarding the
God in the face of Jesus Christ. knowledge of God's word.
Finally, my Brethren, God hath not called us
unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. The My desire and prayer is specially for the
ground on which we stand is holy. The God young people of this assembly, that they
Whom we belong to and Whom we serve is would recognise and value their privileged
Holy. Practicing sinful life is one thing He will position of having ample fellowship and
never compromise with. Let us please Him gifted Bible teaching; that they would have
by our daily, living faith just like Enoch (who) a vision and burden for India, with its
walked with God: and he was not; for God millions of people and thousands of ethnic
had translated him: for before his translation groups who have never heard of the Lord
he had this testimony, that he pleased God. Jesus. Just as at Antioch, systematic
“I know thy works: behold, I have set before teaching was followed by the sending of
thee an open door, and no man can shut it: missionaries, I pray that Borivali Assembly
for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept would also be able to contribute
my Word, and hast not denied My Name … significantly to the evangelisation of India.

Propagate the Gospel of Jesus of Christ.

What a blessing it is to share in your SanthoshThomas
joy and in the joy of the Holy Spirit
in thanking God for all that has It is my prayer that the Assembly will always
been achieved by this Assembly over the continue being alive in your faith and in the
past 25 years! I remember well of my visit to work that you have been entrusted that you
Borivali Assembly, Mumbai, 15 years back will, in understanding this desperate need,
and the incredible warmth of reception there. reflect strongly and brightly the image of
I was overwhelmed by the welcome and the Christ through this church to all in Mumbai.
genuine hospitality from both the oversight During this time of thanksgiving celebrations,
and the members. The memories of your I also hope that you have the opportunity to
Christ-like love that I experienced in Mumbai recall and ponder about those who have
are still alive and well in my heart. For the given you this great legacy. You have a great
past years, the Assembly has been a symbol future in front of you filled with the promises
of Christian witness and ministry not only in of God so may the grace, love, joy and hope
Mumbai but also throughout India. The of the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus
Assembly has been instrumental in Christ dwell richly among you. As someone
organizing yearly ABC Bible study has rightly said: Exaltation of Christ,
programme for the young people. I have Evangelism of the lost, Edification of
seen the zeal and enthusiasm of believers to believers and Expression of love are the
listen the Word. Whenever I was in Mumbai, I major four ministries of the local Assembly.
personally preferred to have fellowship with
saints there. May the good Lord continue to
bless the Assembly with a renewed
commitment to the spreading of the gospel
for an effective and fruitful ministry among
the unreached. Now is the time to move
forward with confidence and renewed vision
in the context of the various challenges that
are awaiting us in the future . It is my heart’s
desire my dear brothers and sisters that you
will share in the urgency of the need for the
gospel. The first and the foremost
commandment to the Church is to propagate
the Gospel of Jesus of Christ.

Growing like a fruitful tree

It's been a glorious journey for us as a I truly appreciate the love and care this
family with this assembly for the gone 25 church has shown me when I lost my
years. I cherish those memories when I husband and that respect will always be. I am

use to attend all meetings with my husband short of words to thank each one of the saints

who now is up above with our heavenly who have prayed for my family and me post

Father. the home call of my husband.

I miss those small gatherings and cottage I pray that the church is blessed and always

meetings that use to take place at our growing like a fruitful tree.

home. -Mrs.Grace Desai

As the years pass ....

Spiritual Joy The memories are as fresh as if they assembly. These are memories that can
CURRENTMEMBERS had happened just yesterday; me, a never fade away. They have stood the test of
little boy, running around and jumping time and will always continue to do so. My
on the stairs of St. Francis Technical accident and the home call of my father had

Institute, where we used to gather for our left me devastated but,still the Lord has kept

meetings, during the initial years of the me and my family only BECAUSE OF THE

PRAYERS OF HIS SAINTS. for your prayers to keep us going on till we
I have seen families shaken and totally reach on yonder shore.
destroyed when tragic situation befalls them, As the hymn writer writes, "I will cling to the
but we as a family thank the LORD for all his old RUGGED CROSS and exchange it one
mercy and goodness towards us. day
On behalf of my family, I would like to thank for a CROWN.
all the members for being our source of -Timmy Desai
strength and encouragement, and also long

I was born into a God fearing family and I Jadhav&Family AUNTYBAKERSFAVORITEVERSE
look back into my past and see how the
Lord has been leading. Under His I am the resurrection
guidance, I was married into a God fearing and life-
family to Samuel Arthur Lazarus on the 22nd John 11:25
of October, 1992. He was a God fearing
believer. He always sought God's blessing AuntyBaker
and guidance in his work. In this manner, we
began our married life. God blessed us with a Siona&Sylvia Ammukutty Ammachi (as we fondly VTThomas&Ammachi
daughter and our joy doubled as we call her) has always been a source of
welcomed our beautiful little daughter into written: “I will instruct thee and teach in the encouragement to many in the God with all you heart and be sincere in
our family way which thou shall go. I will guide thee with assembly. A prayer warrior, she has always everything that you do, you can be a woman
One day, sudden tragedy struck. On the 25th mine eyes.” Reading this, I knelt and prayed sown a seed of advice and comfort in all our of God's own heart too'. Truly a blessing is
of October, 1996, my husband's journey on and asked God to be my lead and my guide. hearts. And even now, in her old age, our she!
earth came to an end and entered his This verse has since then been my guiding dear Ammachi still remembers every
heavenly abode to be with the Lord. His light. My in laws willingly took my daughter member's birthday. Today, although bed-
sudden loss was too much for me to bear. I and me under their wings and provided for ridden and in body pain, we never fail to see
had no strength to face life. I didn't know what us; even provided for my daughter. Sylvia's, a smile on her face when we go to visit her.
to do; I was just like a lifeless stone. But it was education. She recently advised one of the young girls
this dear assembly that helped me overcome We took trip recently to Israel. During the tour when we were talking about our career
all the difficult times with their help and of Israel, words fail me to describe what we goals, she said, “Just as David, if you follow
prayer support. The assembly members, my saw and experienced there. During these 24
family and relatives stayed by my side every years the Lord has been my guide and
step of the way and helped me to slowly get writing this can only be credited to God.
back onto my feet. I sincerely thank God for being my helpline,
Sometime after my husband's death, I guide and Saviour. I still see His loving grace
happened to open my husband's cupboard and kindness upon us day and night and
and came upon his wallet. I opened it and thank God Almighty with all my heart.
found a paper on which Psalm 32 vs.8 was -Siona Lazarus.

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.

Let all that you do be done with love.” 1Corinthians16:13-14 The Lord has sustained us thus far!

I am very happy to hear that As for the LORD, a thousand
Our Assembly is coming out years are like a day so has
with a Souvenir to celebrate the last 25 years been for us.
our 25th Anniversary of We remember and praise God for all
commissioning. I have had the
privilege of being a member of his mercies and blessings. When
the Assembly from the
beginning, with my family. CBA started in 1991, we were a
Initially, we used to worship the
Lord at Santacruz and Malad young couple, with our10 month old
assemblies, after moving from
Thane to Borivali in 1990. It was baby, Jane. From then on started a
difficult to reach there early
morning with kids. In answer to beautiful fellowship with CBA.
our prayer, God enabled us to
start a weekly Bible study Through all the ups and downs,
session at St Francis Technical
School , with a small number of happy and sad events, we have
believers under the guidance of
Bros Koshy Mathew, A C Rajan, formed a bond which keeps us
James Thomas and Ivan Desai.
Shortly we started a worship together. Spiritually we have
meeting followed by
fellowshipping from the Lord's received maximum blessings
Table. The ministry of the Word
and the Sunday School helped K.M.Mathew&family through various Lord's servants JustusPhilip&Family
my children a lot in their spiritual from different parts of the world. We

also enjoyed excellent bible studies, Sunday school activities, cottage meetings, outreach

growth. The two articles given at the programs Family conferences, ABC for Teens and picnic outings. As a family we Praise God for
first two pages of our address book
was a great help for the discipline, and sustaining us all these years and pray that our assembly will continue to be a shining lamp in
orderly behaviour of the members of
the assembly and it is with much Borivali till the Lord comes.
prayer that the elders corrected the
Mathew members when needed, with love and
concern. I sincerely pray that Lord
may enable Borivali Assembly to grow
spiritually and enlarge our boundary.

The Joy of the 25th milestone

Benny Writing this gives me immense joy while our assembly ShimMathew&family Maxlin&family
completes the 25 year milestone. Being only one of the
youngsters who has been an integral part of the assembly
from the time of its inception till today, I am awestruck to see how the
assembly has grown these past 25 years. The assembly members have
been more like a second family to me. The freeness and togetherness
fused in with spirituality is something I seldom see anywhere else. I was
encouraged tremendously to use the very few talents that I have, for the
Lord's work in the church. God has been good to us over the years and
also enabled our family to be a helping hand for the assembly in whatever
way we could. I would like to thank the assembly for being a tremendous
blessing in my life and wish it 25 years more to come.
Praise the Lord!

First Marriage service Sustained by the Grace of God

Going back in time, in the late 80's, Dias&family We as a family praise and thank God Philip&family
when we just came out from a for His faithfulness and goodness
staunch Roman Catholic this assembly. My wife Anita got the that we have enjoyed over the The love and hospitality shown to me when I
background to the knowledge of the living opportunity to serve as a Sunday school past years while being part of Borivali was a bachelor and to my family later by
God, we moved to various assemblies in teacher for four years. My son Aaron, grew assembly. From the beginning till up until some of the families in the assemblies has
thirst of learning God's word. Attending the up learning the Word of God, got baptized now, God has been so good to us. We thank had a great impact in our lives. There are ups
Bible study by Bro. Koshy Mathew in St. and is using his talents with joy to serve the God for sustaining this lamp stand through and down in our own lives but we are
Francis School, we got to learn a lot from Lord in various activities in the assembly. all the ups and downs for the past 25 years. sustained by the Grace of God and by the
God's Word. Eventually, we started May our Lord sustain this Lampstand and We thank God both our children have had encouragement given to us by our co-
fellowshipping with the believers at Bethel in use it to be a blessing to many souls, just as the opportunity to hear and learn from the believers.
we have been blessed as a family in the past assembly and come to the saving knowledge
Santacruz. Later on in 1991, the Borivali 25 years!! of Christ.
Assembly was established. The love and hospitality shown to me when I
It was here that learnt the importance of a was a bachelor and to my family later by
local assembly, which is essential for the some of the families in the assemblies has
day-to-day spiritual growth of a believer.
Sound doctrine is the platform for firm faith, had a great impact in our lives. There are ups
which is s held in highest regard in our and down in our own lives but we are
assembly. sustained by the Grace of God and by the
We are also privileged to be the first couple encouragement given to us by our co-
ever to unite in marriage (7th April 1992) in believers.
We pray that the Lord may continue to bless
our assembly in the days to come.

A spiritual family gained.. Walking for the glory of God

I have been in fellowship with this Coleen Rejoy&Sis.Feba We are really excited to be a part of
assembly for four months now, and every this historic moment of our church;
individual I have met here has been kind The celebration of its Silver
and wonderful. The spiritual family I have Jubilee. We have been fellowshipping with
gained here has been a constant source of this assembly for about two years and God
support, always encouraging me and has blessed us in a miraculous way. CBA
keeping me in prayers. I feel blessed to have always helped us to walk for the glory of God.
met the youth of this assembly especially, for Especially big thanks for all the members in
never making me feel like I am away from this church who always supported us. The
home. excellent love and care we received cannot
be expressed in words

CBA-An answer to our prayers! Praying without ceasing

As a young couple, one of the James&Nancy I was part of the Borivali Assembly from Godly&Family
concerns we specifically prayed for 2003-2004. After returning from my
was to be part of the “right” studies in 2006, I continued to be a part of sometimes at short notice (Col 1:9 –“ Pray
fellowship. Today, we're humbled in the assembly fellowship, first as a bachelor without ceasing”). This fellowship has
believing that CBA is an answer to all those and then as a family post 2010. My wife encouraged all saints to pray and access the
prayers. Merlyn, has been a part of the fellowship divine throne of grace. All these special
It's hardly been a few months of fellowship since 2010. We are blessed with two meetings are in addition to regular prayer
with CBA, but it feels like we've known the children: Benjamin (5 years old) and Hannah meetings of the assembly. In the words of
church as family for many years! (1 year old). The focus of saints on the word Savior: John 15:7 “If you abide in me, and my
of God, desire to please God and love for words abide in you, ask whatever you wish,
We praise God for the huge source of each other have been a source of blessing. and it will be done for you”)
encouragement that the Elders and the During my fellowship here, the prayers of We encourage, the saints, through this letter,
members have been to us-The fellowship of saints have sustained us through all to continue in the same fervor and the love
the saints, the warriors of prayer, the vitality circumstances. The word teaches us that we for each other may increase and manifested
of the youth, the sincerity of the service of the must pray for each other: 1 Timothy 2:1 – “… by prayers and supplications.
I urge that supplications, prayers,
saints, the craving for the word, are few of the the Mighty and Faithful King, who has, in His
many reasons, we're so humbled to be part perfect plan, called us to serve Him! intercessions, and thanksgivings be made
of this assembly. The overwhelming love We rejoice with the Saints in this year of for all people”. Also in James 5:16 “..The
we've received these past few months Jubilee, praising God for the 25 years of prayer of a righteous person has great power
moves our hearts to praise God and His faithfulness that he has in His Grace shown as it is working”. We can state this with
faithfulness to us and the assembly! to this Assembly and look forward to many confidence that this fellowship is a praying
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for more years of growth and blessed fellowship assembly. Praying for each other. Praying for
brothers to dwell together in unity!” - This is with you all! society and government. Praying for saints
our prayer for CBA- that we continue to grow who are away from us. Praying for physically
in love and unity; running this race, gazing on sick and old in age. Praying for the health of
the assembly. Special prayer meetings are
arranged when there is any opportunity like a
public holiday. We are encouraged by the
divine energy to organize these meetings,

James &Family Jemmi & Jacob

Keep the ame burning! In Christ alone, My hope is found.

I have been blessed to be a part of Borivali I stepped into Mumbai on the 20th of various youngsters
Assembly right from the early years, when March, 2013 and joined in fellowship with and Sunday school
we would gather at St. Francis Technical the saints of Christian Believers teachers of this
School. Assembly, Borivali. I came from an assembly. Sunday

My beloved father and mother could assembly of 120 members to an assembly of school was
also enjoy the fellowship of the saints at about 60 members, all of whom were active, refreshing to my
Borivali. Appachan could have the fellowship loving and talented. mindand has helped
for less than a year but Ammachi was me immensely to
blessed with 16 long years of fellowship
before they were promoted to glory. We are Right from the time I entered this assembly, I delve deep inot
grateful to the brethren for the love and care have experienced only joy, love and affection
and especially for the Malayalam translation Saju&Family God's word. ThomasWinson
provided for them.
the boldness and the thoughtfulness of the from everyone. I was encouraged many God has blessed this assembly abundantly in
As days went by, I went from being a oversight brethren to write it down and teach times by various brothers and sisters of the many ways. HE IS FAITHFUL and He has
what we believe and practice as an assembly. I cannot fail to mention the power united us in one body andone spirit. As the
bachelor to a family man; blessed with a assembly. We need to rekindle these of the messages I have heard here. They psalmist says "Oh Taste and see that The
godly wife and three children. I thank God for teachings to the new generation, to resist the have been fruitful, powerful, thought Lord is good". These many years I have
the fellowship, Sunday school ministry and evils of the world and give strength to them, provoking and even challenging at times. tasted God's goodness, compassion and
the teachings of the gifted brethren because to keep the lamp burning for the generations The believers of this assembly work mercy towards me. I really enjoyed the time of
of which all my three children are walking in to come. I pray that the Lord help us and together, sweat together and slog together fellowship with this assembly and I what
the Lord. When I look back, I can testify the bless us to do so. for God's work. wanted conclude by saying that God's
faithfulness of our lord in the last 25 years in presence has never gone out of this
leading us as an assembly. I thank God for I obeyed the Lord in the waters of baptism on Asssembly.
23rd April, 2016. It was a pleasure and a
“Better is one day in your courts, than a thousand elsewhere” joyful time to take part in the fellowship of the Praise be to God.
bread and the cup. I enjoy the Sunday school
How true these times are when I talk testimony for the Lord until His coming. May
about spending time in the presence we be steadfast in faith and doctrines with songs and lessons that were taught by
of the Lord with His saints. It's been love and harmony for the glory of our Lord.
the greatest blessing in my life to have an
assembly with wonderful children of the - Lydia Saju
-

Lord. From my birth I have been part of the

assembly and have been brought in his word What a fellowship
by the saints. From the songs in Sunday What a joy divine
school to the classes and the various Leaning on the everlasting arms
ministries, knowing the Lord and His great What a blessedness
attributes has just been so wonderful. With the saints of christ
Though we come from various backgrounds, In our cba, borivali
we are all “Bound together with the chords of
love that cannot be broken”. May our

assembly continue to stand as a shining

Importance of Bible Study

BIBLESTUDYATBORIVALIASSEMBLY

AssemblyACTIVITIES The Borivali Assembly, since its Why is Bible Study an essential meeting for
inception, has given importance to local assembly?
the weekly Bible study. Bible studies The sign of a healthy church is their
and prayer meetings were held on perseverance to hold fast to the doctrines of
Thursdays for many years. Recently it was the word of God. As generations pass on, the
changed to Wednesdays from 7.30 pm to 9 doctrines continue to hold anchor. This was a
pm. The meetings are pre-arranged and only distinguishing feature of the early church at
gifted men of God in the area of preaching Jerusalem. Acts 2:42 "And they continued
and teaching are given the responsibility of steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and
taking a Bible class. Apart from the local fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in
brethren sometimes we invite able men from prayers.". The word "steadfast" carries the
other assemblies to teach us. Nelson meaning that they were “earnestly diligent” to
Thomas, Thomson B Thomas, E J Stephen, learn and study the doctrines from the word
Thomas John are few such saints who of God. There were new believers who
volunteered to come and take the Bible needed to be taught the truth. The exercise
studies. Many other visitors from India and of learning the doctrine carries a prominent
abroad have taught the word. Bro Koshy position in the activities of the church even
Mathew has led many studies including from today. Additionally, Bible study time is for
the Book of Revelation, Zechariah, and edification of the saints of the local assembly.
Romans. They were men sent by God for the The passage in Ephesians 4:12 teaches us
edification of the local assembly. Followed by that the gift of teaching along with other gifts
Bible studies we used to spend some time in are given primarily for two main reasons:
prayer too. 1. Perfecting of saints for work of ministry
Apart from this prayer meeting, we gather on (Ephesians 4:12)
every third Friday at 8 PM for an unlimited 2. Edifying of the body of Christ : (Ephesians
time of prayer. 4: 13) "Till we all come in the unity of the faith,
and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto
Other than the weekly bible study meetings, a perfect man, unto the measure of the
other meetings like monthly youth meeting, stature of the fullness of Christ"
sister meetings and the yearly conference
“ABC for teens” are also arranged. The Precious biblical truths and practical lessons
primary purpose of additional meetings is to can be shared during this time. The Bible
teach the word, catering to different groups Study therefore provides the opportunity to
of believers learn and edify the saints. In Acts 2:42 the

act of holding onto doctrines appears before have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 to Antioch and stay for a longish period and philosophies, personal opinions and
breaking of bread and prayers thus For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the teach and exhort the word. The testimony of definitely be not involved in debates and
establishing its importance and prominence word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But Barnabas is stated in Acts 11:24 " For he was fights as they are not profitable.
for the local assembly. Pattern need not be strong meat belongeth to them that are of full a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of The pattern of the local assembly since its
exactly replicate but it suffices to understand age, even those who by reason of use have their faith". This along with Ephesians 4:11 formation, has been one that has steadily
that this is meeting which takes prominence senses exercised to discern both good and evil." should give a good idea to assembly anchored itself on Bible teachings and
just like other meetings. Therefore assembly overseers of the kind of person they should doctrines. Therefore, it is important in today
overseers must note the importance of this This was written nearly 2000 years earlier be looking for. Barnabas committed himself age where varied doctrines are floating
meeting. but is still valid for a vast majority of believers to stay put at Antioch, which is 300 miles from around us, that adequate importance is
who satisfy themselves with infants food Jerusalem, for a period of 1 year. Bible given to such Bible Study meetings. They
Furthermore, Eph 4: 11-15 "And he gave some, when they should be lifting themselves to teachers must display commitment to the serve for the edification of the local
apostles; and some, prophets; and some, learn wonderful aspects and dimensions of task at hand and not be in the habit of assembly.
evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; Christ present work and his person (Eph 4:13 ignoring the ministry for personal time and
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work - "measure of stature of fulness of Christ"). making excuses like buzy with work and
of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of As a result, many have lost their sense of buzy with family. Barnabas was not afraid to
Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the direction ( Hebrews 5:14 “have their senses make a commitment to stay away from his
faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, exercised to discern both good and evil.”) and comfort zone in Jerusalem.
unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the involve themselves in worthless ventures,
stature of the fulness of Christ:4 5 14 That we unprofitable initiatives. Our primary ministry What if there are no gifted teachers in
henceforth be no more children, tossed to and is to magnify Christ but we cannot do that Assembly?
fro, and carried about with every wind of effectively if we stay as infant believers. If a local assembly is having a dearth of gifted
doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning believers to teach (like in Antioch), then they
craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; Who should be taking the Bible Study? can reach out to neighboring local
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up There are three qualities of the person who assemblies requesting for bible teachers
into him in all things, which is the head, even should conduct the Bible study: who can set apart time for conducting bible
Christ" 1. Spiritually gifted to teach (Ephesians 4:12) study. In Acts 11:20-26, The mother church
vs 14 and vs 15 further emphasis that 2. Committed and not be taking undue at Jerusalem felt the need to send Barnabas
teaching from the Bible will let believers personal vacation and time from ministry at to Antioch. Acts 11:23 "Who, when he came,
mature over time as they get a progressive hand (Acts 11:26) and had seen the grace of God, was glad,
understanding of the blessed person of 3. Person should teach in love and and exhorted them all, that with purpose of
Christ (vs 13.."unto the measure of the compassion and not for self glory. heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
stature of the fulness of Christ:"). Many We learn from the example of Barnabas in
believers have lost interest in the deeper Acts 11:21-26 that overseers in Jerusalem We also note in this section, that as
things of the Bible and satisfy themselves assembly led by divine grace, selected Barnabas taught the word at Antioch, many
with basic truths. The writer to the Hebrews Barnabas to go to Antioch to teach and saints were added to the assembly. Bible
exhort. The assembly at Antioch was in its teaching should go hand in hand with a
said in Hebrews 5:12-14 "2 For when for the formative state with many new believers desire to speak the gospel to visitors and
time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that being added. Barnabas was selected to go new believers. Bible teachers must keep the
one teach you again which be the rst principles matter simple instead of focusing on external
of the oracles of God; and are become such as

THEOUTREACHMINISTRY: keep this door open for us and when some of
SOWINGSEEDSINLITTLEHEARTSANDMINDS us go away from the city, others would come
forward to continue the good work. We claim
inI.C.ColonyKhadi the promise found in Isaiah 55:10,11:
Acts 1:8- “…You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria
“For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven,
and to the ends of the earth.” And do not return there, but water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
Our Lord gave His disciples this hand up to the RebeccaRajan
commission as He ascended, and classroom. The That it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
over two thousand years later, we amount of love
His disciples in Borivali Assembly had the shown to us by So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
burning desire to obey the Lord by these cute little It shall not return to Me void,
witnessing about Him at the nearby slum children make us
area. want to go back But it shall accomplish what I please,
every Sunday to And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
Brother Allan Kumar Roy was instrumental in teach and show
finding a house that would open their doors them the love of -Rebecca Rajan
to us, as he would give tuition to some of the
children in the slum. So, with great the One who said, “Let the little children come
trepidation and much prayer, we set out on a to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the
Sunday evening to conduct our very first kingdom of heaven.”
Sunday school meeting in a tiny room that
couldn't even contain all the kids that came Every Sunday, we have around twenty
that day! As the weeks progressed, God minutes of joyous singing followed by lesson
graciously provided us with a classroom right time, where we teach them a Bible story and
in the middle of the slum. He also enabled us a memory verse. Sometimes, we even do art
youth to progressively become more work and games in the form of quizzes to test
conversant in Hindi with the children, as they how much they remember of what we taught
prefer being taught in the national language! them. We have always been pleasantly
surprised with how beautifully they recite the
The classroom nearly always is jam packed memory verses and give us correct answers
with children ranging from the pre- primary of lessons we had taught them weeks back.
class all the way up to grade ten. They are Our only hope is that the word of God that
extremely noisy, energetic and quite often, has been sown in their young minds will not
hard to control. But the enthusiasm with be snatched away by Satan and that the
which they sing the action songs and the rapt gospel that has been given to them
attention they pay to the Bible stories we countless times, would change their hearts
teach them is very endearing. From the so that they surrender their precious lives to
moment we enter that lane, we are greeted the Lord Jesus.
with “Hello Didi” or “Hello Bhaiya.” Many of
them run up to hug us and we walk hand in As for the future, we covet your prayers for
this ministry that the Lord would continue to

THISLITTLELIGHTOFMINE, “.. To the ends of the earth.”
I'MGOINGTOLETITSHINE:
ANOUTREACHTHROUGHTHEWORLDWIDEWEB
The Sunday School ministry

The Sunday school ministry had its ministry that has had thus far borne good fruit These final words of Christ demanded our very own vast country. To see the website
inception at the same time that the and even today young souls are being His saints to be mobile in reaching the silently yet so powerfully being used by our
assembly was formed; it was a touched and challenged for the Lord. lost, across the contours of this globe. Lord encouraged us to further push the
ministry that was formulated with great care The Sunday school anniversary was But not until the turn of this century and the expanse of the website to mobile
and vision. Some of us who have been something the children looked forward to; we subsequent advent of the age of internet, ecosystems. The overwhelming response of
blessed by the Sunday school ministry in our conducted special programmes and exams could anyone imagine how this instrument of this could not have been foreseen.
own lives took initiative to reach the children and prizes were given for exams, quiz mass communication could indeed be used
songs, Bible stories and lessons etc with completion, attendance etc. to reach the ends of the world. Despite it In 2011, the first mobile app was released for
much dedication. Those who started as We pray for the students and teachers of the being an unprecedented tool for the vicious the Symbian OS, meant for the erstwhile
students later became teachers themselves present batch and that the Lord may desires of our adversary, the prospect of Nokia phones. In the same year, podcast for
and were able to pass on the Bible truths continue to bless this ministry and ministry utilizing the same for the heralding of the the iTunes was released. Both coupled was
they have been taught with much love and and many children may come to the saving TRUTH remains to be underscored in immensely helpful to reach the sermons &
prayers. Sunday school ministry has been a knowledge of Christ. Christendom. resources to a wider audience and most
importantly made the content readily
The assembly at Borivali, through very available across devices. It took 2 years of
humble efforts, created a website in the early more development and finally a
years of this millennium. Encouraged by the corresponding app for the Android was
response received and the potential of released in 2013. This saw the usage of
resources that could be further leverage, the sermons increase exponentially,
website was overhauled in the year 2010 corresponding a distribution of apps over
and continued to meet the rapidly evolving 100 countries. It continued to remain a top
ecosystem of smartphones, tablets and its ranked app for 'sermon' and like keywords. In
operating systems. The website served as a 2014, the apps for iPhones and iPads were
repository of sermons delivered at the also released. The number of emails
assembly and also other assemblies, received, the number of sermons
conferences across the country. It further downloaded, the number devices installed,
became inclusive of biblically sound articles, the number of users reached, the number of
poems, write-ups and encouraging countries covered and other like statistics
biographies of missionaries who served the continued to baffle us as no rational
Lord in the Indian subcontinent. From our explanation could substantiate, except the
neighbors like Pakistan, Sri Lanka to the Lord chose to use this ministry in a way that
Americas, Africa and beyond, the sermons pleased Him.
were downloaded in huge volumes. The
response was tremendous from all parts of Unfortunately, towards the mid of 2015, the

website suffered several malicious attacks “Flee......, but pursue....."
and an oversight while upgrading the
website resulted in a severe loss of data. The "Flee also Youthful lust; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call
mobile apps and the website had to be taken on the LORD out of a pure heart". 2 Timothy 2:22
down, only sparing the iOS apps. By God's
grace, after several efforts, the website could Paul's pearls of advice to Timothy are simultaneously alongside the Sunday
be restored to partial functionality. All the those that echoes every father e School ministry after the Sunday Worship.
apps and their functions are gradually being desire towards his son / daughter. Various sessions of the youth meetings have
restored. Despite the setbacks this ministry TIME and AGE are the most powerful forces been dedicated to discuss issues that affect
eventually faced, we can't be grateful of nature that shapes and molds every youngsters and to identify our spiritual
enough for the Lord to have mightily used human soul. Like rocks in the course of a weakness. Only when we lay out our
these tools in spreading His Word to the flowing river, is every soul that finds itself in shortcomings in the presence of the
ends of the earth. We have seen its reach, its the passage of time and bears the full brunt Wonderful Counselor, Our LORD JESUS
response and only eternity shall reveal its of a transient AGE's fury. Any soul, like a CHRIST, can we hope to absolve these
complete results. Soli Deo Gloria. stone, not found embedded to the foundation spiritual impurities to draw closer to HIS
of LORD JESUS CHRIST, cannot and will IMAGE. Currently, the sessions are spent in
-Abraham Koshy Mathew not be able to withstand those forces. the study of Epistle of James. Youths in the
Distractions of TIME & lustful desires of our assembly are blessed with many spiritual
AGE are at its peak in the life of a youth. And gifts. GOD'S GRACE has always been
so, when our carnality wages this constant abundantly reflected in the dispensation of
siege on our soul as a young man/woman, it these gifts by the youths for HIS cause. The
is imperative for us to pick the right arsenal to mutual love and joy that they share
fight this war. And without the SPIRIT OF illuminates the assembly and our gathering
GOD and HIS GRACE, it is nothing but in the LORD's NAME. Youth are always the
youthful folly to believe that as youths we soul and energy of our assembly. Whether it
have the right and complete armor to deliver is the Sunday School singing sessions,
us from the conniving snares of the devil. outreach ministry among the slum kids or the
Paul highlights the same folly in us and nuances of our annual ABC programs, youth
asserts to us to flee them. And Timothy was have displayed that willing heart to be led by
able to FLEE the traps of a restless young HIS SPIRIT to be molded by HIM for HIS
mind and PURSUE the truths laid out in GRACE. The youth of the assembly have
CHRIST, as the brethren in Lystra & Iconium been blessed with the burden of carrying the
testified. ministry among the slum kids in Borivali that
they have arduously carried on. Kids of
In Borivali Assembly, we try to provide the various ages and backgrounds in the slums
youths with the WORD OF GOD; that we have been introduced to the Good News of
may nourish our souls with the spiritual Jesus Christ through various songs, rhymes
MANNA (John 6:32). Youth meetings are and gospel stories. I pray that in the coming
held on the First and Third Sundays days, may they be like Joshua, ever keen to

be found near HIS TABERNACLE (Exodus The WORLD needs more TIMOTHYs, Call & Commendation
33:11) and continue to grow in HIS GRACE. JOSHUAs & DANIELs to show them the of Koshy Mathew
Joshua FLED from the unfaithfulness of the faithfulness of our ETERNAL HOLY
chosen human nation and PURSUED holy FATHER, HIS OBEDIENT SON and HIS God in His mercy brought my parents from a nominal Christian
and divine purpose to draw nigh to THE ASSURING SPIRIT. May our youth grow be background to the Assembly fellowship. So as a toddler I had the
ALMIGHTY GOD. the vessels in HIS HANDS. privilege to associate with the assembly gatherings. My memory
goes back to my Sunday school days at Bandra, Mumbai (now Santacruz
In today's age, our secular world and its To FLEE the lusts that tempest within our Assembly) where I started learning the Bible. Sunday school lessons and
charms are the NEW AGE KINGS of PERSIA carnal bodies, and to PURSUE that bright prayerful teachings imparted by my mother from God's word, convicted
AND BABYLON. They siege our souls and and morning STAR that leads us onward and and made me feel the need of salvation. At the age of ten I accepted Jesus
take us as captives; away from the HOLY homeward to New Jerusalem. Christ as my personal Savior and Lord.
TEMPLE and the PROMISED LAND. This
happens when we tend to forget the LORD's I did part of my schooling in Kerala. During this period, I attended the
WORD and HIS WORSHIP. But the need of assemblies at Mavelikara and Punthala. I was regular in attending all
the hour is to be found like DANIEL, not only the gatherings of the assembly. Great Bible Scholar late Evangelist C V
gifted in all wisdom, possessing, knowledge George, Pandalam was my Sunday school teacher. Apart from Sunday
and quick to understand (Daniel 1:4) but also school, he took Bible classes twice a week. It was in these Bible classes that
not to defile ourselves with the portions of I learned basic Bible doctrines and the importance of water baptism. At
this WORLD's delicacies, nor with the wine the age of fourteen I obeyed the Lord in the waters of baptism by the hand
which THEY drink (Daniel 1:8). Daniel FLED of Late Bro. T. K. Samuel, Elanthoor, on 16th June 1968. During those
from the gravitational pull of the world, to days I was actively involved in various spiritual activities like open air
PURSUE heavenly blessings. These meetings, house visiting, tract distribution etc. Our elder C V George
delicacies and wine are symbolic to the encouraged me, most of the time to take the word ministry in the Assembly.
temptations that the devil so deviously uses
to enchant us. So, we need to present our to Even from my teenage days, the Lord laid upon my heart to separate
youth with the whole armor of GOD, that they myself for a full time ministry. So after getting a good result in my
may WITHSTAND in the evil day when they SSLC, I thought of pursuing my higher studies in the Bible. I applied to
may have face contempt, gird their waist in the Hindustan Bible Institute, Madras. Since admissions were closed,
TRUTH of the resurrection, put on the they asked me to try in the following year. For fear of wasting one year,
breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS that no I joined for Pre-degree at Pandalam College. We had a student's prayer
evil stains be found on their souls, shod their meeting at the campus. It was a blessed time. I could lead that prayer
feet with the preparation of the gospel of group for ve years and could see some souls saved. I took Zoology as my
PEACE even in the face of stiff opposition optional subject in order to learn about Evolution and to “earnestly contend
and ridicule, take the shield of FAITH while for the faith.” I always exposed the foolishness of Evolution in our
facing this evil world, put on the helmet of
SALVATION to avoid any eternal damage to
our soul and PRAYING always, being
WATCHFUL with all supplication to the end
(Ephesians 6: 11 - 18).

students' prayer group. any monetary gift from any one, until my retirement from the service last
year. Now some times I accept nancial gift to meet my incidental and
After my post graduation, I came back to Mumbai to join my parents. I was traveling expenses.
waiting upon the Lord for my future course of action. Burden of ministry
was still upon my heart and that caused me to resist all the pressure from In the year 2006 my Book “Even so, come Lord Jesus” got published by GLS.
my parents and brothers to seek a Job in Gulf countries. I nally decided to Now the third reprint is going on. It resulted from my Prophetic studies for
serve the Lord along with my job, for some time in Mumbai. God in a more than thirty years. After two years, the Marathi translation was also
miraculous way gave me a job as a lecturer in a senior college. Yet I was published; Now Hindi and Telugu translations are ready for print.
waiting for His clear call for the ministry.
In the year 2005 during December, I passed through a crisis due to sickness.
Along with my secular job I was involved in Bible teaching ministries in many I was sick for two months; during that period Lord spoke to us clearly. We
assemblies of Mumbai. Some times I went out during vacations or took leave as a family nally decided to surrender to His perfect will. We felt that “it is
from the College. It was in 1981, I rst started my expository studies from hard to kick against the goad” and to remain “disobedient unto the heavenly
the Book of Romans in a place called Malad in Mumbai. Many from nearby vision” (Acts 9:5; 26:19). I applied thrice to my college authorities to relieve
areas gathered to hear the Word. After a few years , Bro. Nelson Thomas me from my service. Finally the third time, because of my persistence they
came to the same place and started an assembly testimony. I got married in decided to relieve me from the service on 25th Oct 2008 when I had ve more
the year 1983. Before getting married, I expressed my desire for full years of service remaining. Humanly speaking, the best of my ve years of
timeministry to my wife Felicity. She whole-heartedly endorsed it. But it took service I left for the sake of the Gospel.. ”What things were gain to me, those
more than twenty ve years to fulll that dream of ours. I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for
the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: ………do count them
-: 2 :- but dung, that I may win Christ (Phil.3:7-8).

In the year 1988, we moved our residence to a new place called Borivali. Few My wife Felicity is also involved in the ministry along with her secular job.
other families also moved to this place. We together started a Bible study and The Lord has blessed us with two sons Anub (25) and Abby`(17). Both of
open air meetings. It pleased the Lord to establish Borivali Assembly on them are in active fellowship with the assembly.
29th Sep 1991 with the prayer and support of Santacruz Assembly. Borivali
Assembly further extended its ministry to neighboring areas. Along with the On 31st Jan. 2009 Borivali Assembly prayerfully commended me to the Lord
brethren, I could start a Bible study at Nallasopara that continued for more for the full time ministry. Many Saints from other assemblies came to
than one year. Finally a new Assembly testimony was established there on witness that glorious moment in our life. Bro. Thomas Mathew from Fort
24th Jan 1999. Now more than fty people are gathering in Nallasopara in Assembly shared God's word.I praise God who has called me to His vineyard,
a comfortable premise of their own. and made known His call at the Eleventh hour- (an “Eleventh hour worker”)

For last many years I could visit various parts of our country as an Immediately after God's call, in a miraculous manner he opened doors for
itinerant preacher and Bible teacher. In 1995 I could also share God's word ministry in various parts of the country. In Belgaum Christopher Hukkari
in many Assemblies in UAE and Bahrain. All these years, I never accepted arranged special meetings and invited me as the speaker in the month of

November 2008. That was the rst meeting I have attended after my call
for the full time ministry. In the month of December 1st to 7th, 2008, I got
the invitation for the Kottayam Convention. That was the rst convention I
ever spoke. For the last eight years there was a constant ow of invitation
which made me to travel all over India. Most of the meetings were in Andhra
Pradesh. In 2012 I had the opportunity to speak in the most popular
convention (112th) at Kumbanad Kerala. Also Lord enable me to travel to
Gulf countries in 2012 and 2014.

Lord used me to reach hundreds of souls and to edify the saints. Praise be to
His Name

Sisters of Borivali Assembly

We sisters are though weaker nook and corner
vessels, our weakness is made
perfect in the strength of the Lord. of the kitchen
We are so thankful to the Lord for retaining
many of us who were there on the very first lively. When the
day of the assembly, hitherto experiencing
the loving hand of the Lord Jesus in these yummy yummy
last 25 years.
chicken gets
The love of the Lord has bound us in all
circumstances. All the indifference could be ready for tummy
submerged and over shadowed when we
were under the perfect will of God. tummy of our

In the very early years to say 1991, we dear ones we FelicityKoshy
few sisters very prayerfully with the consent stand with a face
of Assembly elders started sisters prayer
meeting on every second Saturday. Most of of great satisfaction and smile . Once the
us were staying in the same building -
Sharon Apartment. We sisters have an cottage meeting is over, we rearrange, clean
unspeakable cord of love which we obtained
in Christ Jesus. We really enjoyed the and depart with a lovely hug. We often share
fellowship of sisters and unexplainable joy
prevailed in our heart. Even today after many "12 baskets full" . Oh we are grateful to the
years , the same love and joy continues ,
though we all have grown old and white Lord for bringing us together in this
streaks appeared on everyone's head, there
is no change in our attitude towards one assembly.
another. Eph5:1..... "Live lovingly or live a life
of love", is experienced for the last 25 years If any one is sick or hospitalized , we
in spite of all ups and down
sisters will understand the need of the hour
Cottage meeting is one of the occasion
where all sisters would get together to decide and would take it as our own concern to
the menu followed by, purchasing, cleaning,
cooking-all of which we used to do joyfully. extend any sorts of help, may be to stay in the
We all would come together to make the
hospital as a bystander or cook and get the

food for the hospitalized dear one or take

care of the children at home.

Many of our elderly sisters are promoted

to glory. We can never forget their warm love

especially Aunty Fernandez, Aunty Ambrose

and Amachi Aliya Joseph.

We do miss our dear sisters who had

been with us for long years of fellowship but

left and settled in USA, Canada, Kerala

especially Sister Thankamma George,

Sister’s Hearts sister Nancy, sister Kuttamama, Sr

Kunjumol George Sr. Aleyamma Thomas Sr

Mercy Baker, SrJessy Thampi Sr Regina , a

long list. They were the active members of

our sisters group and were a great blessing. gather there to listen the word. imagination . Glory to God alone. His mercy actively involved in the Sunday school
If there is a marriage in Once in a year during endureth forever. ministry in teaching the word of God,
conducting exams, Bible quiz and activity
any one family, it's a joyous, occasion and a ABC(Assembly Bible Classes) Borivali At the time of special time based on Bible
get together, for all the other families too. sisters take keen interest. Turn by turn they gathering all sisters would be very active to Sunday school anniversary is another
Everyone from the eldest to the smallest will come during the day time. Some sisters stay go from building to building , flat to flat with occasion were all sisters actively participate
involve and will be ready to take care of the in the the venue( Vinyalaya) to take care of pamplets to invite our neighbourhood. Some in preparing Bible based skits and other
minute requirement of the wedding day. It's a the young boys and girls. Even in the night at times we did not get welcome and were programms, getting gifts ready for them,
wonderful team work. All will wait till the 1am and 2am our dear sisters take round to threatened and driven out of the building, but serving them tasty dinner followed by their
reception gets over and it may go upto 12 in make sure our youngsters are Safe and we take it as a joy...Acts 5:41.. And they favorite brownie.
the night till the bride and bridegroom leave secure. departed----rejoicing that they were counted
the venue. Enthusiasm and cooperation of worthy to suffer for HIS Glory . When we
sisters exhibited on such days is amazing. We love all our Assembly children Strengthened by the Lord's words "Do not be say all these, with grateful heart let us
as our own. All aunties are ready to meet afraid ------ do not keep silent ----for I am with acknowledge that, most of us were working
Our regular sisters meeting day is a their needs . All these we do ,very joyfully not you. We continued our efforts of fishing. Next or still working or worked for20-30 years. We
a time of exhortation and prayer. We sisters out of compulsion. At the same time we day one man from the same building are ever indebted to God our Father for
sit and sing for an extended time till we feel should admit, the evil one tried to spoil the surrendered to the Lord in the special guiding us in each step of our life for HIS
that we could pour out our heart filled unity , to sift us like sifting the chaff, but the meeting and our joy knew no bound. We Glory .In nut shell each one of us can testify"If
adoration towards the Lord. On singing Lord sustained us , kept us in one accord. We sisters in a small group make house visit to I say "my foot slips"Your mercy,O Lord,will
songs one after another, our heart is poured thank God the way some of our sisters see elderly sisters,sit with them singing hold me up. Ps 94:18. In spite of all this busy
out at the feet of the Lord.Its a great time of showed tolerance and perseverance to songs, comforting them in the sick bed. schedule all our sisters are good teachers of
fellowship exhorting one another from the maintain the unity of the Assembly. the word of God for their own children at
word of God. Many times young teenage As home. Every one can see the fear of God in
girls also come for the sisters meeting. Our Assembly kitchen becomes active every psalmist says " How good and pleasant it is the eyes of our children. Glory to God alone.
Testimony meetings are really encouraging Sunday to make tea and coffee At times we when brothers live together in unity". Our
to one another and glorify the Lord's name. do cooking, washing,cleaning. children were looking at us all these 25 We don't have to boast in any of these merit,
years. Glory to God who led us triumphantly we can boast only in our infirmities. After all,
Lord strengthened sisters from How can we in all our infirmities and trials. All our children we are HIS unprofitable servants Luke
our assembly and were sent them to witness forget the heavenly experience of all night are God fearing. We have no greater joy than 17:10.We surrender at the Masters feet with
Him in different parts of our country such as prayer. Even when our children were very to hear that our children are walking in the all humility, May HIS name alone be glorified.
Kerala, Andhra Pradesh,Orissa, Madhya small , once they sleep, we used to leave truth.
Pradesh ,West Bengal and of course in them with our husbands and gather in the
Maharashtra. In the all these places God Assembly Hall for all night prayer from 11 pm We all sisters receive Lord's servants with so
showed mercy to win many souls for HIS to 6am. Its a special strength we receive much joy. We are keen to see their stay to be
Glory. from above to sit ,sing testify and pray comfortable and we all are ever happy to
through out the night.Its a wonderful all night receive them home and show hospitality. For
Our young teenage girls very prayer we have experienced many times in the last 25 years one of our dear sister Aunty
eagerly work among the slum children in I C the last 25 years. All night prayer made us to Grace Desai gets ready every Sunday with
Colony,every Sunday evening.This ministry be on our knees at the throne of grace all the the unleavened bread for the Lord's supper.
continues for HIS Glory. more in our life.God had heard our She is doing this ministry unto the Lord in all
supplication in a miraculous way . Many humility and love till date. May God reward
Sisters from our assembly make instances come to our mind where God dear sister abundantly. Our sisters too are
it a point to go to the slums in Borivali East. answered our plea beyond anyone's
Our dear sister Baby opens her home for this
ministry. Many from other community also

He leadeth me…Oh! Blessed thought! GROWINGINTHELORD
WITHTHESAINTSATBORIVALI

Christian Believers' Assembly will by the spirit and the ShirleyJames It gives me great joy to hear our assembly
always have a special place in my unfailing promises of is celebrating its silver jubilee. Time has
heart. I can say this with confidence God; we could still flown by quick. Our Heavenly Father has
because of my close association with the get back to our jobs brought our assembly this far.
children of God here. I recall many the next day. We I was hesitant to move house from Thane to
experiences that are joyful, encouraging and have indeed reaped Borivali as there weren't an assembly nearby
edifying. It has been an absolute blessing to blessings on account My beloved husband, felt the need for us to
have been a recipient of the exposition of of these. move into this place. I thank my Lord for
God's word, from over scores of visiting men I do not mean to paint giving him the wisdom, leading and
of God. Not only for me, but for my children a rosy picture by guidance from above to make this important
too, who have grown up from infancy with the recounting only the decision in our lives .Me and my kids who
church, the exposure to hearing the WORD were 4,12 and 15yrs of age at that time,
is one of the outstanding aspects of good times. Hard times have their share of started to attend meetings in Malad then later OmanaMathew
assembly life that has held them in good blessings too. Hospital visits, reaching out to in Santacruz. Gradually, due to earnest needed them the most. I enjoyed the picnics
stead. It has nurtured them through the embittered souls, visiting and praying with prayers of our dear Saints in Christ, an too as they were fun filled and had a lot of
turbulent years of teenage and adulthood sickly, elderly sisters and widows, seeing assembly testimony beganwith a few scripture oriented activities. When I reflect on
and taught them the value of fellowship with their tears, grieving with the sorrowful……. Christian families. It was a time of immense my past, being a part of this fellowship has
believers, especially among the youth. Many have all been moments of self-realization spiritual growth and encouragement for us. I been a refining process in my life and has
years down the line their bond has been and confrontation with reality. I thank God for feel privileged to be a part of this fellowship definitely helped me to grow in my Lord.
intact, though separated from some by the hard times, the mistakes that have made as I've gained so much spiritually. I would
distance and time. us wiser, and the sad experiences that have look forward to enjoy the Bible studies and With Christian love,
Cottage meetings used to be a regular, how made us look at life from a more practical and sisters' prayer. Our assembly is blessed with Omana Mathew
can we forget that!! Around noon time sisters spiritual perspective. All earthly vanities glide wonderful Bible teachers and loving sisters
used to gather in the home where the into obscurity when I see the grit and nerves in Christ. They were a great source of
meeting was to take place and food would be of steel among some, who in the face of strength and encouragement with their
homemade. Sisters in secular work adversity and depravity of circumstances prayer support and comforting words during
managed to take some time off to be present have still made it a point to come for the my time of crisis. I want to extend my love
at the cooking session. These were times gatherings. They have unknowingly put a and gratitude to all for being there when I
that gladdened our hearts. In the hustle and song in our hearts and praise on our lips.
bustle of preparations we learnt hospitality As I thank God for these wonderful years that
as a necessary tool to maintain fellowship have passed by, it is my prayer that the next
and love among believers. generation will take the spiritual legacy
On many occasions the assembly hall forward……to be strengthened by the word,
doubled up as war rooms for all-night prayer sustained by grace, preserved by mercy,
sessions. That's an experience so incredible empowered by the Holy Spirit ,
and unforgettable for the peace and calm it encompassed by brotherly love and above
filled our hearts with; and being empowered all, continue to fight the good faith.
-Shirley James

25THANNIVERSARYOFBORIVALIASSEMBLY GROWINGINTHELORD
WITHTHESAINTSATBORIVALI

I praise the Lord who has wonderfully led AnnammaJoseph Twenty-five years seems a very long SajiniRajan
this Assembly for the last 25years. It is time, but for me it is as if yesterday. As
now 60 years since I arrived in Mumbai. I was alone also I could experience spiritual a child, I grew up in Fort Assembly, need.
have stayed in many places in Mumbai. We happiness, love, care and concern of all Mumbai. and have fond memories of
were in Thane Assembly right from its believers. believers, whose lives have touched me I remember the cottage meetings we used to
inception. We had the blessed privilege of My prayer is that the Assembly grows more through their love for the Lord and our have when we initially started the Assembly.
taking part in many activities of the Assembly with the blessings of the Lord. Joseph family. We sisters decided that we would prepare
for four years. The Lord enabled us to attend the meal ourselves since the number of
Fort Assembly from the time we shifted our Subsequently after my marriage, we shifted people were between 30 to 40. We would go
residence to Bandra. There too the Lord to Borivali and for a few years we were to the home of the family and many sisters
blessed us in participating in all the activities worshiping with the believers in Zion would come and help in the cooking. It was a
of the Assembly. Christian Assembly, Sion. We had to travel sweet fellowship. I also remember the times
From the time we moved to Borivali we could really far and hence could not attend weekly when we sisters would gather for an all-night
be in happy fellowship of the Assembly here. meetings. Our fellowship with the saints was prayer. This was a new experience for me
We could experience unprecedented only on Sundays for worship. A great desire besides attending weekly meetings. A song
spiritual joy and love and cooperation of to attend Bible studies in English and which comes to my mind I would like to
brothers and sisters in Borivali. Since our flat worship in the same assembly became a quote:
was close to the Assembly Hall, it became part of our prayer. The Lord graciously
convenient to attend all Bible Studies, answered that humble request when some
Sisters' Meetings and Prayer Meetings. It believers decided to start Bible study in
was an enjoyable time of fellowship. When I Borivali itself and after a few years the
worship service started, of which we are,
today, celebrating the 25 years!!! “There is a place of quiet rest, Near to the
heart of God
It has personally been such a blessed and A place where sin cannot molest, Near to the
learning experience “The Lord is still
working in me, to make me what I ought to
be”. The opportunities that I got to listen to
God's Word were tremendous. It is here in
Borivali Assembly that I grew spiritually.
Every message delivered by different
speakers from across the globe helped me to
examine my life, make corrections and stand
for my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We as a
family enjoy the love, fellowship and support
of our dear fellow believers in our times of

heart of God God”. Here are some of those hidden jewels, Borivali Assembly Picnic
which I have seen in each sister. Fervent love
O Jesus, blest Redeemer Sent from the for the Lord, Optimistic outlook in all Assembly Picnic is an annual After lunch it is time for more games
heart of God situations, Strong Support in prayer, eventthatallchildrenandeven whilesomegiveresttotheirbackand
Hold us who wait before Thee, Near to the Appreciative of all things, Benevolent nature, adults look forward to every limbs. Some items are quietly being
heart of God. Enthusiastic disposition, Joyful attitude, year. It is a time of fun and closer hidden in the bushes and the trees in
There is a place of comfort sweet, Near to the Strong faith in adversities, Simple faith in fellowship. Allareinapicnicspirit,as preparationforthetreasurehunt.
heart of God. prayer, Affectionate love, Forgiving spirit, the cool day in December breaks. The Theusualwalktothebeachtakesplace
A place where we our Saviour meet, Near to Discerning mind. There are so many sisters busjourneycommencesafterawordof beforethesungoesdown.Picturesare
the heart of God.” who have left our Assembly and settled in prayer; then starts the singing of clicked of the fun filled moments to
We have seen the wonder working hand of different parts of the world, who have choruses and hymns together and it preserve the sweet memories of the
God in answering our humble requests, over impacted my life. I am really grateful to the sets the mood. Well packed breakfast day.Awalkonthesandisfollowedby
the years. The monthly sisters' meetings Lord for each and every one of them and their dabbas are opened and delicious feetpaddlingintheshallowwaterstill
were always a blessing. Helping in the ABC families for their contribution. sandwiches of chicken, tuna and thehemofthefoldeddressgetswet.
for Teens has been a heavenly experience. chutneyvarietiesarepassedfromone
It has been a wonderful journey these past to another. Other snack items also In the evening crunchy snacks and
Every sister in our Assembly has been an twenty-five years and we as a family can see maketheirappearance. cakesareservedalongwithtea.Nowit
encouragement and comfort to me. I have the hand of God in everything. istimetowindupandstartthereturn
seen a lot of qualities in them which I would Once we reach the picnic spot, the journey after an exciting day out. The
like to emulate. As Apostle Peter says in his As Apostle Paul reminds us Ephesians 2:10 spiritualpartoftheprogrammebegins returnbusjourneyisalwaysmorefun
epistle: (1Peter 3:4) “..rather let it be the – “For we are His workmanship, created in with singing, prayer and a brief with singing our favourite hymns in
hidden person of the heart with the Christ Jesus for good works, which God meditationfromtheWordofGod.The Antakshari style among two groups.
incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet prepared beforehand that we should walk in childrenarealreadyonthelookoutfor Water bottles get empty and throats
spirit, which is very precious in the sight of them”. suitablespotsfortheirgames.Various getparchedwithhighpitchedsinging.
Biblebasedgamesaretheattractionof Thesceneissetformoresnacks,chips
Sajini Rajan the day. There is healthy competition andchakalis.
amongallparticipantstowintheprize.
“Driver roko, utharna hai “, Br.
Some consider the customary Bible Sitaramandfamilyarereadytogetoff
quizathrillwhileothersendureitasa beforetheflyover.Br.Sajuandfamily
trial.Brothersversussistersaddtothe have started picking up their bags. As
competition spirit of the game as the the bus reaches Sharon Apartments,
genders clash for the top honours. By weunloadalltheitemsandtakeitback
now all have built up a good appetite totheAssemblyhall.Tiredbuthappyat
and the smell of freshly prepared the close of another picnic day.
chickencurryfillstheair. Anotherdayofcloserfellowshipofthe
familyofGodendswiththanksgiving
andprayer!!
.

PHOTO GALLERY

PHOTO GALLERY

YEAR2003 YEAR2010
YEAR YEAR2015
YEAR CHRISTIANBELIEVERSY'EAASRS2E0M1B6LYINTHEYEAR2003
YEAR

A beacon of light AbbeyThomas&Family

We reached the mega city of Mumbai
as a newly married couple, in March
2011. The love & fellowship that we
enjoyed from the dear ones at CBA, Borivali,
helped us settle down without any hassles. The
hospitality & spiritual mentoring that we got here
enabled us to set our foundation as a family
and we strive to implement that even today.
God has a purpose for everything He does and
He has been kind to place us there in our initial
months of marriage. The good memories are
etched to our hearts and we cherish every
moment spent there. We praise God for placing
CBA as a beacon of light, touching the lives of
many for the past 25 years.

Learn to Share the gospel

When I decided to come to Mumbai,
my first thought was, "which
Assembly willI go to and where will I
be staying?" I had originally thought of going to

another church, but turns out, God had another

plan for me; a plan to be in fellowship with the

assembly at Borivali

I deeply enjoyed the fellowship with the

brethren at Borivali Assembly. It felt, nay, it was

like a second home to me.The assembly taught

AllanKumar me how to share the gospel and preach a
message to the saints and went a step further

and gave me opportunities to do so.The elders like Rajan uncle were a great encouragement

to me so many. He taught me so many wonderful lessons during my fives years of

fellowship.

The messages of Koshy uncle were also a great inspiration to me. The last Sunday I was

Memoirs OF there, I felt that the message was meant for me. The last Sunday I was there, I felt that the
FORMERMEMBERS
message was meant for me. He spoke on Daniel 1:8, "Don't yourself with the portion of kings

food ..... "

I took that message as a challenge before leaving Mumbai.

By God's grace, I am in fellowship with Bible Truth Chapel in Miami, Florida in the United

States of America and I am enjoying my Pilot Training.

Praise the Lord The joy of being a door keeper

When I planned to visit mumbai, evangelist Jebby It's wonderful to go back and remember
K Simon from Kerala suggested me to stay with how the Lord has led me all the way;from
Lalan brother and join the Borivali assembly. the age of 7 to 17 I was in this assembly
It was Sunday morning when i reached Mumbai and and as it has been for many young people,
Borivali assembly has been a pivotal and
Lalan brother took me to Borivali assembly and introduced foundational part of my life young life. When I
stayed as a child in Sharon apartment, I had
me to everyone. It was the first assembly other my home the privilege of opening the doors of the
church on a Sunday morning along with my
assembly that i was going to be a part of. parents, and place the song books in the
seats. These little things remind me what the
I was really feeling glad after worship meeting to meet our Psalmist says – I would rather be a door
keeper in the house of my Lord.
lord's people's love in the unknown places. The way of The Sunday school and the messages we
heard every Thursday and Sunday, made a
sharing god words from specially Rajan uncle, Koshy uncle great impression on our minds. We loved it
when we had an array of special preachers
& Godly brother, Abby brother has been really very AmitKumar to come and speak of practical Christian
inspiring for me; all glory thanks to lord for that. I am

grateful to Rajan uncle & Philip uncle,who guided me in

some personal issues as i just passed out of my bachelors degree. I saw and understood the

real meaning of the lord's love after regularly attending Borivali assembly.

Most importantly i got a chance to share the gospel with outreach children throught the outreach MerwynKoshy&Family

ministry & learnt how to share gospel among children. I am also thankful to all the aunties of our

assembly who really made me feel like their family member & normally every Sunday i used to

get the chance to have lunch at their home with the dear brothers and sisters living from His word. The special gospel campaigns and the singing preparation behind them
was exciting for the Borivali Kids. I played a lot of guitar along with Jojo, Benny and Philip uncle,
Lots of thanks to our lord Jesus who gave me opportunity to meet assembly people who really who taught and encouraged the music side of us. If Philip uncle was the music side, we had Ivan
uncle as the “Barnabas” (encourager) of the church, who would spur us young children to
made me understand the standard for love of our living god in any circumstances. I believe it worship the Lord boldly and audibly. I am thankful for the elders that the Lord has blessed this
church with. Lo! The Lord was pleased to call this dear uncle home
was the lord planning to send Mumbai to understand his love. Now, married to Merlin and Mattee, our son by our side, I can't help but thank God for the
marvelous ways he has led us that would always call Borivali assembly our home where ever we
By god's grace I got a job and was able to complete the required 12 month sea time. I have go. Yes-Borivali Assembly always has a special place in our hearts.

realized that it would have been impossible to sustain at the high sea without the lord.

As i move on further in life with my career, i wish and pray that i will keep finding the loving

fellowship as i had in Borivali.

Praise his name!

-Amit Kumar.

Hit with the wave of Nostaliga

My memories at Christian Believers nostalgia. Blessed with wonderful teachers
Assembly go back to my Sunday and having the privilege to teach in Sunday
School days at St. Francis School, my spiritual life was shaped growing
Technical School. We sat on wooden up here. I cannot thank God enough for the
benches singing away choruses from our ways many assembly members have
little handwritten song book. Today, those inspired and mentored me. Praise God for
songs mean more to me than ever before. the love and Fellowship that has continued
Each time I visit I am hit with a wave of for the last 25 years and looking forward to
many more years.

AmitKumar