Faith Connections Issue 2

ISSUE 2
JULY 2021



Faith Connections











Faith Formation Newsletter, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Catholic Forane Church



Message from Our Vicar
PAGE 3

Article by Sr. Mary Ann
PAGE 4

Submissions from Children
& Teachers

PAGE 8

Alter Serving Information
Editorial Message
PAGE 16
Choir Interview Welcome to the latest edition of our Faith Formation Newsletter! This
PAGE 17
edition’s theme is about Dukrana, the feast day of our father in faith,
Bible Quiz Finals St. Thomas the Apostle, as well as living out our Catholic faith in
America. This year, Dukrana fell on July 3rd, while Independence Day
PAGE 19
fell on July 4. The feast day of our father in faith, St. Thomas, fell just
CCD Annual Day one day before the feast day of our American Independence. St.
PAGE 21 Thomas’ feast day is one of the major feast days of our Syro-Malabar
Catholic faith, while Independence Day is one of the most important
Academy Day
holidays of our American nation. We chose to highlight both these
PAGE 23 major celebrations because they are both important aspects of our

CCD Class of 2021! identity. Our Syro-Malabar Church teaches us the Catholic faith while
PAGE 24 incorporating our Indian culture, while the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Diocese of Chicago helps us to live this faith fruitfully in America. The
Soccer Tournament purpose of this newsletter is to provide you with inspiration to live as
PAGE 32 a faithful Catholic in our Indian-American society.

Raising Hope
PAGE 33 The theme for our next newsletter is the Rosary. Please don’t hesitate
to send any feedback or questions our way via email at
Care for Creation [email protected]
PAGE 34 Also, if you're going to eighth grade or above, and are interested in

Sunday Bible Readings joining our Faith Formation Newsletter Team, please send a message
to the above email address.
PAGE 36

Birthdays! Wishing you a very happy and blessed Dukrana and Independence Day!
PAGE 39

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






EDITORIAL BOARD

























Sandra Mathew Annamaria George Jasmine Geo

Project Manager, Grade 11 Editor, Grade 10 Graphic Designer, Grade 10


















Jennifer Jose Ethan Kallarackal Maria George
Graphic Designer, Grade 10 Project Manager, Grade 9 Editor, Grade 9


















Joel Pulikkan Naomi George Rose Maliekal Terissa Alex

Graphic Designer, Grade 8 Editor, Grade 8 Graphic Designer, Grade 8 Editor, Grade 8


Mentor Mentor Mentor Mentor
Roy Thadikaran Mariella Payyappilly Smita Maliekal Ginny Pulikkan




PAGE 2 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





Message from our Vicar,


Rev. Fr. Antony Pullukattu (Fr. Tony)


How amazing it is that we are Christians today because St. Thomas

came to Kerala in 52 A.D. to proclaim the Good News. Our Christian
faith, and the opportunities it presented, helped us to become better

human beings with great core values that were imparted by Jesus from

the way he taught his disciples.
Wherever a Malayalee Catholic went, he/she carried their faith and
made all the efforts to keep it strong in their family. This is why our

Syro-Malabar rite is spreading around the world. In our America, land of

opportunities, when there was a great demand for health care
workers and Indian IT professionals during the turn of the 20th century, many parents of our parish

migrated here. A good percentage of our parish families (more than 95%) are first generation
migrants. The faith and the family values they brought along with them helped to establish a good

and vibrant diocese and our parish.
In today’s world, where the intellectual mind questions the existence of God, it is the strong faith

that is propagated by such families that will counter and make a difference. As students of the CCD
program, you have a greater responsibility to first understand and love God and share that

knowledge to your friends through your way of life. Let us understand that faith is a gift to be
accepted with openness. May the good values that our faith brings forth as well as what you get

from your families and our parish community be your core strength.

On July 3rd we celebrated Dukrana and Independence day on 4th of July. May the independence we
enjoy be used to its fullness by remaining deep rooted in our core values and bettering ourselves in
this country which we have made ours. Like St. Thomas who courageously witnessed Jesus in a

different land, we have a big responsibility to give back to the country, and may that be through

great spiritual leadership that you all will get to exercise now as well as when you grow into adults.
May the Love of Lord Jesus be with you all always with God’s protection and guidance of the Holy

Spirit.


Yours in Christ


Achen




PAGE 3 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021











































St. Thomas Thomas doubts the word of his fellow apostles when they tell
him, “We have seen the Lord.” He says that unless he also
sees, he will not believe. Let us not imitate Thomas at this
moment, for “blessed are those who have not seen and have
and Faith believed” (John 20:29).

Yet, eight days later, on this day, the eighth day of Pascha
(Easter), Thomas also sees the Lord, who appears among
in America them again in the upper room even though the doors are
locked. Jesus says to Thomas, offering himself and his
wounds to be touched and probed, “Do not be faithless, but

believing” (John 20:27).
And upon seeing the risen Lord and hearing this, Thomas
makes his statement of great faith: “My Lord and my God.” If
you will notice, Thomas is the first person in the gospels –
perhaps the first person on this earth – to call Jesus “God” in
such a direct and unadorned way.
By Sister It is to be remembered that St. Thomas the Apostle did more


Mary Ann than just doubt, though his doubt is, without doubt, just what
St. Thomas is best remembered for. But it is in the doubt of
Thomas that the reason for conviction lies hidden—that what
Marshall is essential is invisible to the eye. The ultimatum and
understanding of Thomas is a moment in the Gospel bearing
an emotional force that will never grow dull, reminding all of
the blessedness that awaits those who believe without the
testimony of their eyes and hands. Faith teaches us, together
with Thomas, that seeing is not necessarily believing.



N O M A D I C | 2 4
PAGE 4 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021



The paradox of faith is that it believes precisely in the
unbelievable. Seeing is only necessary to the faithless.
To those who keep the faith, no worldly explanation for
what they believe is possible; and in that, and that
alone, is peace and salvation.

Jesus commanded his apostles “to go forth and
baptize all nations,” sending his spirit with the power to
be missionaries; some of those apostles were
miraculously transported across oceans and over
mountains to nations in the far-flung corners of the
world. To God, nothing is impossible. St. Thomas
accepted the command of Jesus to come to India.
Catholicism flourished in India and the Catholics were
known as St. Thomas Christians. Eventually, St.
Thomas Christians immigrated to America, and to this
day they are flourishing and growing in number as
well. Their faith and their presence in America are very
enriching and powerful, even though the Catholic faith
in America is diminishing.

Now let us look at the history of Catholicism in
America in order to understand the importance of the
presence of St. Thomas Christians as they are the
exemplars of FAITH!
Catholic Church in America and aroused the
Roman Catholicism in the United States suspicion of Protestants. A nativist Protestant
Although French Catholics participated in the crusade was formed and was characterized by
exploration and colonization of the Mississippi valley, intense anti-Catholic prejudice.
among the 13 colonies of the United States, only
Maryland included an appreciable number of Catholics Despite these problems, American Catholicism
before American independence, as Catholics were endured. Its ranks were greatly increased by
often unwelcome in other parts of the colonies where immigration, and it attracted a large number of
Protestant churches were supported by law. converts, including the first American-born saint,
Elizabeth Ann Seton. The church built an extensive
From the first, however, leaders in the Catholic Church educational system that ranged from parochial
enjoyed a respected place in American society. elementary schools to universities. Through these
Charles Caroll, a member of a notable colonial institutions, Catholic leaders enabled their
Catholic family, served in the Continental Congress parishioners to combine religious loyalties to Rome
and the U.S. Senate and signed the Declaration of and civil loyalties to the United States.
Independence. He also helped to write the Maryland
state constitution, which guaranteed freedom of Ironically, one of the most divisive events in
worship for all Christians. His cousin, John Carroll, the American history, the Civil War, contributed to the
first bishop in the United States and the first growing acceptance of Roman Catholicism in the
archbishop of Baltimore, pioneered the exploration of United States. Some Catholics, due to the fact they
positive relations between Catholics and their fellow were immigrants, did not want emancipation
citizens of other religions. because they thought that it would lead to
competition for already scarce jobs, as these
Beginning in the 1830s and 40s, the assurance of immigrants were already living in poverty. The
religious freedom attracted millions of Catholic Catholic Church taught that all people regardless
immigrants to America, and by 1850, Catholicism was of color or cultural background must be treated
the single largest Christian church in the country. The humanely, and many northern Catholics came to
cultural differences between the immigrant Catholics oppose slavery. When war broke out, Catholics on
caused issues in the relationship with the established both sides enthusiastically joined the fight.



PAGE 5 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021


In the second half of the 19th century, the Catholic Now, in the 21st century, the time is ripe for you all
Church in the United States sought to end its internal to play your part in the history of the Catholic Church
divisions and respond to the challenges of the broader in America. As St. Thomas Christians practicing your
world. In America, the church took steps to evangelize Catholic faith in America, you have a very unique
the freed slaves. place in the world. You are called to let the light of
your faith and your zeal for God fill the world and
During the 20th century, Catholics in the United States enliven the lives of everyone you meet.
struggled to find an identity and a place for themselves
in American society. In the early part of the century, In closing, St. Thomas offers the very challenge of
they faced continued hostility from Protestants. A law Thomas to all “Doubting Thomases” when it comes
that passed in 1924, limiting immigration from the to the truths concealed in Christianity. Catholicism is
Catholic countries of Europe, was rooted in religious fantastic! The truth of sanctity is, in many ways,
bias. Yet, during World War I the National Catholic more accessible through the unbelievable which
War Council was formed to demonstrate Catholic surpasses the bounds of truth as it is commonly
support for the American war effort, and after the war, known, for sanctity is of a higher truth.
it promoted the cause of social justice. During the
Great Depression and afterward, the efforts of Catholic Like St. Thomas, Catholics are called to look beyond
political activists and reformers such as Dorothy Day the evidence of their eyes, to believe in miracles,
received national attention. and to be optimists when pessimism is the only
reasonable conclusion. This is FAITH, and it is a
The revival of Thomism, the philosophy of St. Thomas way that is often shrouded in obscurity and ordeal.
Aquinas was also important. It contributed to the Life can be a dark pilgrimage, offering no clear path
flourishing of Catholic theology and biblical studies. towards light and life. Therefore, “We walk by faith,
Thomism came to be taught in all Catholic schools not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) “But the men
and, by the 1920s, strengthened the intellectual signed of the cross of Christ,” sings Chesterton’s
identity of educated American Catholics. legendary Ballad, “go gaily in the dark.” Catholics
must be confident, and carry on even though they
As in World War I, the patriotism shown by American carry on blindly – seeing only dimly - and ever ready
Catholics during World War II helped to abate anti- to cry out at every sudden, joyful realization that we
Catholic prejudice. In 1960 a Roman Catholic, John F. lie in the arms of the Risen Christ.
Kennedy was elected president—an office previously
thought to be out of reach for Catholics. Increasing
numbers of Catholics held political office at the local
and national levels and the ecumenical movement
brought about better relations between the faiths. By
the early 21st century Catholics accounted for 22
percent of the American population. With 200
dioceses, the American hierarchy is the third-largest in
the world. My Lord

The church in the United States, as in the rest of the
world, endured a period of great turmoil following
Vatican II (1962–65), one of the most important and my
councils in the church’s history. Vatican II brought
much of Catholic practice up to date (to paraphrase
Pope John XXIII), revised the liturgy, altered relations
between clergy and laity, and permitted the mass in God!"
local languages.

It also encouraged dialogue between the faiths and a
more collegial relationship between the bishops. St. Thomas
These changes, which profoundly affected the lives of
all members of the church, were welcomed by many,
though they inspired a minority to leave.



PAGE 6 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021







MYSTERY SAINT



“Everything, even sweeping, scraping vegetables, weeding a garden, and

waiting on the sick could be a prayer, if it were offered to God” -our Mystery

Saint


Greetings! Can you guess who I am from reading my story? Test your knowledge!



I was born in Lima, Peru on December 9, 1579. I was born to a Spanish settler

and a freed slave from Panama. In my youth, I had to find menial jobs at the

local monastery to support my mother and sister - cutting hair, sweeping the

floors, and managing the inn.


As I grew older, I experienced a lot of discrimination in my town because of my

mixed heritage. For instance, I was unable to pledge myself to religious orders.

However, after years of prayer, God answered my call as I was finally able to

become a Dominican lay brother at the age of 24. Despite the mockery from
those around me, I prioritized strengthening my own faith in order to serve

others unconditionally.



At the infirmary where I was assigned to, I made sure to take care of anyone that

came to me whether it be wealthy Spanish merchants or impoverished African
slaves. I reflected God’s love through healing the sick and taking care of

orphans. I also enjoyed many gifts from God such as aerial flights, bilocation,

instant cures, miraculous knowledge, spiritual knowledge and an excellent

relationship with animals. When the Convent rebuked me for helping those

afflicted by the Lima epidemic, I replied, “Forgive my error, and please instruct
me, for I did not know that the precept of obedience took precedence over that

of charity.”






EASTER EDITION | ISSUE 1
27 PAGE 7 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021







MYSTERY SAINT


During my time in Lima, I made many great friends such as St. Juan Macías

and St. Rose of Lima. I passed away from illness on November 3, 1639 at

the age of 60.



Here are some extra hints for you:

My feast day is November 3rd

I am the patron saint of mixed race, barbers, public health workers,

and innkeepers

I was canonized by Pope John XXIII





I am St. __________

Answer on Page 13


















Rebecca


Parampettu


Grade 4
















EASTER EDITION | ISSUE 1
27 PAGE 8 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





St. Thomas Cross

By John Maliekal, Grade 5


The Saint Thomas Cross is the symbol of our faith. We

see this cross in the church every time we go for Mass,
but what does this important symbol of our faith

really mean?
Unlike most crosses, the Saint Thomas Cross doesn’t
have the body of Jesus on it. The reason behind this is

to show life rather than death and suffering. The four
ends of the cross are floral shaped, representing the

tree of life. The three steps at the bottom of the cross
represent Golgotha and the death of Jesus. They also
represent the three decks of the Ark and the ascent to

Mt. Sinai. The dove on the top of the cross represents
the Holy Trinity. As you can probably tell, the Saint

Thomas Cross was well thought of when it was Maria George
designed. The next time you see the Saint Thomas

Cross, you’ll know what each part of the cross means. Kindergarten

















Thomas George

Grade 4




















PAGE 9 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




Mar Walah!


ST. THOMAS: MOST LOVING AND BRAVE (NOT DOUBTING)

By Theresa Tomy, Teacher/Parent


As we celebrate Dukhrana, the feast of St. Thomas, I want to share a simple
thought about the Christian experience of St. Thomas. People often call or picture
St. Thomas as "doubting Thomas," but I would say that our father in faith was the
most brave apostle and the one who loved Jesus the most.

When Jesus talked about going back to Judea to see Lazarus who was ill, the
disciples were frightened. They warned Jesus that the Jews were trying to stone
Him and that He should not go (John 11:8). Then Thomas, called Didymus, said to
his fellow disciples “let us also go to die with Him” (John 11:16). This illustrates
how brave Thomas was and how much he loved Jesus, to the point of wanting to
die with his Master.


Thomas’ bravery is also evident in his
evangelization in Persia and India. It must
have been terribly lonely and challenging to
travel and proclaim the gospel in foreign
lands. But Thomas’ love for Jesus and
fortitude strengthened him to even die as a
martyr.

Furthermore, in John 20:24 we read that
Thomas was not with the disciples when
Jesus appeared to them after the
resurrection.
So the other disciples told Thomas “we have seen the Lord." Then Thomas said
“unless I see the mark of the nails in His hands… and put my hand into His side, I
will not believe.” These words sometimes make people criticize Thomas for
doubting. But this highlights two powerful characteristics of Thomas - love and
courage. While all the other disciples were inside the locked room out of fear of
the Jews, Thomas was the only one who was brave enough to go outside the
house. Additionally, Thomas felt heartbroken that he could not see Jesus. This love
for Jesus is what compelled his frustrating sentiment to touch the Lord himself.

As we approach another Dukhrana, let us not overshadow the courage and love of
St. Thomas with his outcry to see the Lord. Instead, let us also love Jesus as our
father in faith did and be brave enough to proclaim Him: My Lord and My God, MAR
WALAH!






PAGE 10 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




































Jonah


Thottathil


Grade 1 Aleena Biju

Grade 5




















Steve Mathew

Grade 1



















EASTER EDITION | ISSUE 1
27 PAGE 11 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




flowers that stayed suspended in the air. Most of

the Brahmins converted on the spot, while some
Dukhrana ran away out of fear.

By Maria George, Grade 9 He was martyred with a spear by Brahmins who


resisted the message of Christianity while praying
Dukhrana, celebrated on July 3rd, is one of the principal
on St. Thomas Mount in Mylapore near Chennai,
feasts of our Syro-Malabar Catholic faith. It is the day
Tamil Nadu in 72 A.D. His remains were removed
celebrating the martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle, our
from India in the 3rd century and sent to Edessa in
father in faith, and his triumphant entry into Heaven.
Mesopotamia, and were later relocated to their

current resting place in Ortona, Italy.
St. Thomas is commonly known for his doubt, but he was

a man of deep courage as well. When the apostles did not
Thus, the reason that the Feast of Dukhrana is so
want to go back to Judea with Jesus for fear of the Jews,
important to us is because it is the feast of the
Thomas said “let us also go, that we may die with Him.”
apostle who brought the message of Jesus to our
(John 11:16). It was this fortitude, a gift of the Holy Spirit,
ancestors, in order that they might be converted
that led St. Thomas to bravely proclaim the Gospel and to
and saved, and so pass that message on to us.
give his life for the Lord. Though Thomas doubted, he
made one of the greatest statements of faith in Jesus that
has ever been recorded in the Bible: “My Lord and my

God!”

St. Thomas landed on the Malabar coast in 52 A.D. in
Kodungallur. He established seven churches and their

communities in Kerala. These are in Kodungallur,
Palayoor, Kottakkavu, Kokkamangalam, Niranam,
Nilackal, Kollam, and Thiruvithamcode. He baptized many
families and preached to the Jews and Hindus of Southern

India, converting them to Christianity.

According to tradition, he made his first miracle in the
sight of some Brahmins in the village of Palur, where he

found them throwing water in the air as a part of their
Hindu rituals, trying to call on the sun god to accept it.
The water was never accepted, and it dropped back onto
Joanna Ajesh
the soil. St. Thomas also threw water in the air, calling on
the name of Jesus, and it was transformed into sparkling
Kindergarten





PAGE 12 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






Anna George


Grade 2






































Aiden Biju

Kindergarten














The Mystery



Saint is... St. Martin de Porres

















PAGE 13 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021







SYRO-MALABAR CATHOLIC FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY

By Teseline James, 3rd Grade Teacher


As a young child, I deemed the litany to be a prayer associated with food. Like most Malayali

families, we always said our night prayers before dinner, and as a child growing up outside of
Kerala, I depended a lot on context cues to decipher what was spoken in Malayalam. Hence

the response in the litany was transliterated as “we are hungry,” since right after prayer we
had our dinner. It was only years later that I realized that “Njanka veshakanu” and “Njankya
vendi abheshikyaname” had different connotations.


I am sure this story strikes a chord with some of

you, who like me, grappled with defining who we
are to our non- Keralite friends. Growing up in Pune,
I found myself explaining what Syro Malabar faith is

to my friends who assumed that I was a Goan
because of my religion, or a Madarasi because I was
a South Indian. This confusion was a blessing in

disguise as it helped me to appreciate the
uniqueness of being a Syro-Malabar Catholic. When

I relocated to the United States, this faith gave me the strength to deal with the hardships that
came along the way. I still remember singing our beautiful church hymns as lullabies to my
children when they were small babies. When my children were still little, I began praying the

Rosary with them before they went to school in order to avoid fighting among them. Praying
the Rosary was a solution that my late grandmother used with my father and his siblings. Even
if the fighting did not stop, praying the Rosary has become integral to my children.


As a Malayali who grew up outside of Kerala, I can appreciate the amalgamation of our Indian
tradition and the Catholic faith. The ‘velak’ with the St. Thomas Cross is a beautiful example of

this. Being Malayalis, the velak signifies light and as Catholics, Jesus Christ is the light of the
world. For me, this fusion is just like the St. Thomas Cross that symbolizes the Holy Spirit who
guided St. Thomas to come to Kerala to make us followers of Christ. Even though we St.

Thomas Christians have relocated to different parts of the world, we continue to cherish our
traditions and faith wherever we are.









PAGE 14 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





Aron Joseph George

Kindergarten




































Jeremy Thottathil

Grade 3


















Kevin Jojan


Grade 7


















PAGE 15 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021







MY LORD AND MY GOD: A RESPONSE TO MERCY


By Lindsae Valiplackal, Youth, 2nd Grade Teacher




St. Thomas, I believe, is an apostle that
truly experienced God’s mercy. Just take a
look at the events surrounding Jesus’
resurrection and St. Thomas. Here we have
St. Thomas, one of the twelve disciples,
chosen by Jesus to continue his ministry
and proclaim the Gospel to all the ends of
the Earth. St. Thomas had witnessed Jesus
cure lepers, multiply loaves of bread, and
raise the dead. Yet, he still doubted that
Jesus appeared to the disciples. I do not
believe that it is a coincidence that Thomas
doubted Jesus’ appearance among the other
disciples, but instead, all part of the
Heavenly Father’s redeeming plan for

Thomas. During difficulties and trials, we

often think that Jesus has abandoned us. Having lost all hope, St. Thomas may have
isolated himself from the other disciples or from his community. We may do the same,
and we might think “Why God, why me?” Jesus could have easily not appeared to
Thomas. Jesus knew that Thomas had seen Him perform miracles, teach prayers, and
be merciful to those who most needed His mercy. Still, Jesus appears again and
personally invites Thomas to feel the nail marks on His hands and feel His pierced side.
How many times has Jesus invited us to know Him more personally? To love Him more
deeply? To be patient, loving, merciful to those who annoy or irritate us?

Let’s take a page from St. Thomas as he utters those fateful words, changing the
course of history and proclaiming the Gospel to India, “My Lord and my God.” These
words are of deep conviction and are a personal proclamation of who Christ is to
Thomas. Christ is his. Christ is mine. Christ is yours. Christ is theirs for all those who
search for Him. Let’s not lose the opportunity to proclaim that Christ is ours. For
“Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future
things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to
separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

Mother Mary, pray for us
St. Joseph, pray for us
St. Thomas, pray for us











PAGE 16 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






Who was our Father in Faith?


By Aaron Stephen

Saint Thomas is known as our father in faith. St. Thomas brought Christianity to India.
He preached the word of God in India and spread Christianity! At the Last Supper, when

Christ told His disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them to which they
also might come because they knew both the place and the way, Thomas pleaded that
they did not understand and received the beautiful assurance that Christ is the Way, the
Truth, and the Life.


Saint Thomas was one of the apostles. He was a dedicated follower of Jesus. Thomas

did not believe the apostles when they said they saw Jesus. Thus, he got the title
“doubting Thomas.” On Christ’s second appearance, Thomas saw the wounds on
Jesus and said, “My Lord and My God.” St. Thomas is the patron of architects. Saint

Thomas had two disciples, St. Mari and St. Addai.

I am glad that our church is named after Saint Thomas. If it weren’t for St.Thomas, we

would not have CCD. I am encouraged to follow Jesus in a special way, just as Saint
Thomas did. Saint Thomas is a great example of what a saint should be like. When I
think about Saint Thomas, I can see that we would not know about Christ if Saint

Thomas hadn't existed. In the church, we can see a painting of Thomas and Mary at
Jesus’ side. We honor Saint Thomas and Saint Alphonsa during the parish feast.




Altar Serving Information


The altar serving program led by Achan, Karimattam Uncle, and Cicily
Aunty is an opportunity for the children of our parish to not only
represent angels during the Holy Mass, but also play an integral role in
our church while being close to the altar. To be an altar server, one must

have received communion and be in 4th grade or older. Training for the
new batch starts in July and you can sign up through this link:
HTTPS://DOCS.GOOGLE.COM/FORMS/D/E/1FAIPQLSFFOTXTJ5NIGPVKCKO8ICQS1TTE
ZUFTBDRAP8CLB3F3KEZPCA/VIEWFORM?USP=SF_LINK


Please contact Ansa Bijo(732-895-9212) or Ashley Thoonkuzhy(732-
354-5605) with any questions.





PAGE 17 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





C H O I R I N O U R C H U R C H !

A n I n t e r v i e w w i t h J o l l y T h a d i k a r a n a n d M e r i n K a l a p u r a c k a l :

The children’s choir is a beloved part of our church and has brought joy to our church on the Sundays that they sing! Many
children are a part of this ministry and it truly has a positive impact on our church. Even during the pandemic, many of the
children came and sang together (spread out of course) for the Lord! Let's hear from Jolly Thadikaran and Merin
Kalapurackal how the Children’s choir first began and how it has held a great importance in our church.


Terissa: Hi Jolly Aunty! My first question for you is when was the children’s choir first started?

Jolly Aunty: It was started from the beginning of the church in East Millstone. We did have plays and singing in the Milltown

church, but they only started singing at Mass after coming to East Millstone.

Terissa: Oh, I see! Also, how would you say that the choir has had a positive impact on the children and CCD students
in our church?

Jolly Aunty: I think it played quite a role and was an attraction for the kids to come and participate. Especially when the kids
had talents for music, their parents would encourage them to offer their talents for God. This gave the kids a deep

gratification. As time went on, many children got attracted to this ministry. We also had kids who could play instruments
and they found the same satisfaction the singers found. The kids made friends with each other and sang enthusiastically for
the Lord together!

Terissa: Wow, I totally agree with that! That should be it for the questions section. Is there anything you would like
to say on behalf of the choir?


Jolly Aunty: No, that should be it! Singing for the Lord is twice the prayer!


After interviewing Jolly Thadikaran, we have learned a lot about the origins of our Children’s choir. We also recognized the integral
role that it plays in our parish community. It has helped many children express their God given talents such as singing or playing
instruments! Someone who has been deeply involved and impacted by the Children’s choir is Merin. Let’s see what she has to say
on her journey as a choir member to Co-leader!


Merin Kalapurackal: Starting in elementary school with Children’s choir led by Jolly aunty (in the basement of the East
Millstone church) to becoming Youth Choir leader in high school, being in choir has always been a vital part of my life. So
after graduating from college, when Jolly Aunty asked me to help her lead the Children’s choir, I was excited to be a part of
the choir community once again. Even through the crazy aspects of the past year, we did our best adhering to the
guidelines with a small select group and waiting until we could all gather together again. Along with Jolly aunty, I hope to

make the kids more confident in their ability to lead the mass through song and prayer and to also refine their musical
skills.
A big thanks to Jolly Thadikaran and Merin Kalapurackal for doing this piece for the Newsletter!




PAGE 18 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

BIBLE QUIZ FINALS
JULY 2021
ISSUE 2




























































































PAGE 19 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021



Bible Quiz Winners








ELEMENTARY




Siona A Jain

Abigail T Mullur



Elizabeth M Thekkanath

John Maliekal










MIDDLE SCHOOL




Jacob George

Nikhil Joji











HIGH SCHOOL



Maria George

Alyssa M Simon


Jerrine George

Anna L Vellara







PAGE 20 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021







CCD ANNUAL DAY
CCD ANNUAL DAY
CCD ANNUAL DAY


















































































PAGE 21 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021











CCD ANNUAL DAY
CCD ANNUAL DAY
CCD ANNUAL DAY





CONTINUED...
CONTINUED...
CONTINUED...





































































PAGE 22 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021


Academy Day 2021

























































































PAGE 23 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





























































































PAGE 24 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




How has the church helped you grow


over the past 12 years?







Joel Thomas Bevan Roy


Church allowed me to grow by realizing The first instance that the church has helped
me grow is through the community I have
that helping the community is something been given and blessed with. This community
that is very important. The church always has showed me that support comes from
pushed me to help out for different
within and also that people do care about you
events, and although initially I was through praying and giving you
encouragement. Another instance of this is
hesitant, I now realize how it helped
others around me and this gave me a love through prayer groups, which allow me to
pray to God with a community rather than
for helping others. It taught me how the
liturgy is very important. In ninth grade being an individual and not knowing where to
start. With a prayer group, I can praise God
we learned about the mass and this was with friends and have a deeper connection
very eye opening. I learned about the and understanding of what I am saying.
different parts of the mass and it allowed
me to realize the importance of mass. It Lastly, another instance is through playing
songs for the choir because I was able to
me
giving
allowed me to grow by again praise God through the art of music.
opportunities to come to adoration and There were some moments in which I felt that
sit with Go. This helped me grow because
communication could be better because of
I started to realize that God is someone different cultural practices, but overall there
that is there for me and looking out for were not too many areas that have hindered
me. I have found a Friend that loves me. my journey.


Albert Sebastian
Ann Muriken



The church has helped me grow ways in the last 12 years. One of the ways in
The church has helped me grow in several
and provided a place for me to which it has done so was during an
meet similar individuals who opportunity to go to a retreat that was
have also been brought up in experience
this atmosphere. The church is much deeper in
hosted by a powerful priest. I felt I left that
my
made up of the people. And Another instance where the church helped
faith.
these people have helped me in me grow was when I was put into CCD
my faith journey. Even when I where I got to meet many new friends that
was in a very rough place, I helped me grow into the person I am today.
always got brought back to the The final instance where the church has
church because my family has helped me grow was when I went to CCD as
always been super involved. a high school student and got to learn more
Some areas I would like to about the real world and the implications
improve is my spiritual the church has on it on a day to day basis.
laziness. I feel like I have a Personally, I don't feel that there are any
resistance to praying because I areas that have hindered my faith journey.
think of it as a chore and not a
conversation.





PAGE 25 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




How has the church helped you grow


over the past 12 years?






Evelyn Abraham


Ansa Bijo One instance of how the Church has



The Church has played an integral part in helping helped me grow in the past 12 years is by
giving me a good community that helps
me grow in faith. With my mom being sick, the and encourages me to be active in my
Church gave me the hope to never lose faith and faith. Our Church has also taught me how
continue to pray rigorously. The members of our to keep my faith steadfast throughout
Church have given me the most moral support in college and the rest of my life. Another
ensuring that despite going through a lot growing instance of how the Church has helped me
up, I remain faithful to God and my family as an grow is by giving me resources to reach
obedient child. Furthermore, the responsibilities I out to if I ever question my faith. I know
took up at church including being an altar serving
leader, CML lead, and youth lead, have defined my that wouldn't
that my Church is a very open community
leadership abilities and made me into a committed shame me for having
member of the Church. The retreats provided by questions about my faith. Personally, I
our Church have given me the best advice that I believe that the Church has been a great
still follow today. An area that has hindered my community for me; I don't think that
faith journey was peer pressure. I would be there were any areas that have hindered
pressurized into thinking I am "too holy" and need my faith journey.
to relax and step away from Church sometimes.
Although being pressurized to think in such a way
was an obstacle in my faith journey, I can proudly
say I have overcome it with the help of my family
and role models at Church.
Jerome Poravanthatil




The Church has helped provide me with a
community of people that care for me and teach
me about my faith. With this community, I am
able to learn more about my specific Indian
Christian culture while also helping others come
to the conclusions that I have. The Church has
also helped provide me with a safe space to
communicate
with God. Although I can
communicate with God from any place on this
planet, the Church gives me a space that allows
me to get in the right mindset and pray in a way
that connects me the closest to God. Another
instance in which the Church helped me is with
providing me with an outlet to meet new people.
When I originally moved hometowns, the only
thing that stayed consistent in my life was my
Church and the friends I continuously make. Due
to the Church staying consistent in my life, I am
always able to build my faith.




PAGE 26 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




How has the church helped you grow


over the past 12 years?






Anson Aerath


In my high school CCD years, there
have been many empirical sources that
have helped bolster my faith. Some
specific instances: When I was asked
how Jesus could be both man and God, Marvel Prime
the answer was that for God these
paradoxical situations can be made
possible. This really opened my eyes to
the sheer magnitude of God's power. Throughout my years of CCD, the
Learning about the history of the Syro Church has enabled me to grow
of
years
With
spiritually.
Roman
vastly
Malabar Church and the education from excellent teachers,
Catholic Church in general allowed me my knowledge in faith and of the
to appreciate it more. Receiving the Catholic Church has grown
Sacraments and moreover, learning exponentially. Many teachers gave
about the meaning of them allowed me their real life experiences in classes
to grow spiritually. which gave valuable life lessons to
CCD
me. Outside the physical
classroom, becoming an altar server
has also allowed me to grow as a
Catholic over these past years.
Becoming an altar server allowed me
Isaac Alexander to take on a much larger role in my
participation of the holy mass and

The gave me an opportunity to have a
Church closer relationship with God
has
helped
me grow
tremendously over the last 12 years, but
mostly during my high school formation. I
learned to be more forgiving and to treat all
people with respect. No matter someone's
background, I've realized how important it
put God first in
is to look at all people equally. I learned to
my
life.
Every
day,
Christians come across many distractions
that inhibit our path to the kingdom of God,
but I have learned to overcome this by
prayer. I learned to be kind to everyone.
Even though there are people who I may not
with
everyone
and show
completely like, I have learned to be friends
kindness
compassion to them.
and



PAGE 27 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






How can we be witnesses to Christ?







Augustine George Elita Moloparambil



The different ways that we can bear witness There are multiple ways of being witnesses to
Christ. First, you can be a life witness. Wherever
to Christ is through being a life witness,
evangelization, sacramental life, acts of you may be, whatever may be your work, you
charity, and social work. We can lead an should work with the conviction that by your life,
God is blessing others and see your work as a
exemplary life, speak to others about Jesus, service. Second, you can do evangelization. We
worship Jesus through the Eucharist and
sacraments, complete charitable acts in must speak to others about Jesus the Savior and
the salvation He had given and gives. Third, you
Jesus' name, and inspire change in society. can participate in sacramental life. We can
our
through
active
missionary acts when we're with others participation in the Holy Mass, frequent reception
We can set an example become witness to Jesus through
outside of church. We can also do a multiple of sacraments, participation in Sunday
of charitable acts outside of church such as celebrations and enthusiastic participation in the
hospitals,
do acts of charity. We become witnesses to Christ
helping out at orphanages, pastoral activities of the parish. Fourth, you can
educational institutions, and even old age
homes. Finally, actively participating in the through charitable acts like giving food to the
hungry and water to the thirsty and cloth to the
the
of
reception
Holy Mass, frequent in the naked, visiting the sick and the prisoners, etc.
participating
sacraments, and of the Parish will Fifth, you can do social work. Christians should
pastoral activities be careful to raise their voice against evil and
strengthen us as Christians and aid us in wrong social systems and to stand for Gospel
being witnesses to Christ. values. Sixth, you can have a life of suffering.
Every Christian should be aware of the fact that
when we take up sufferings for Jesus, we are
blessed.
Liya Joby


You can be a life witness, through Jos Parayil
evangelization, sacramental life,
acts of charity, and social work. A
life witness should live their life
according to the teachings of Jesus.
Their life should live as an example We must know the Word.
to those who aspire to live a life We must hear the Word.
according to Jesus. Evangelization We must understand the
means to speak to others about meaning of the Word. It is
Jesus, and the salvation He gives. important
We should be a witness by to act
worshipping the Eucharist. Divine should
according to the Word. We
life is imparted by the Eucharist also pray
and other holy sacraments. Acts of strength to for
charity include feeding the poor or disciples. be good
donating clothes to the less
fortunate. Christians should also
raise their voice against evil and
wrong social systems, and stand for
Gospel values.





PAGE 28 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






How can we be witnesses to Christ?








Emirose Thattil Isabel Alexander:


There are many ways of being witnesses to
Christ. One way is to continue reading and We can bear witness by being a
understand the word of God. Take time to just life witness and
read and reflect the bible. Another way is to exemplary life. having an
We
should
actively come to Church even after graduating evangelize and speak to others
from CCD. This means staying engaged with about Jesus.
We
should
your church family and trying to participate in worship God and participate in the
also
church activities. The third way of being
witness to Christ is being engaged with your Holy Mass. We are also to do acts
family. This means attending family prayer, of charity, for example, giving
helping your family, and simply spending time food and hungry to the homeless.
with them. The fourth way is by bringing Christ We should engage in social work
and
speak
to school and studies. Before you start studying social against evil/wrong
systems
or do work, say a simple prayer, and once you Gospel values. and stand for
are done say a quick thank you to Christ.
Finally, the greatest way to be a witness to
Christ is to be a kind person. Treat everyone
with kindness. Be respectful of people's spaces,
love everyone. Know that everyone is a child of
God, therefore love everyone.

Merissa Joju



The first way to being a witness to Christ is
embodying our own relationships with God the best
Tia Dinker be like Christ, we have to go through Christian
way possible, through prayer. Then, we can focus on
our personal selves in order to show others what
prayer and a relationship with God can do. In order to
suffering and sacrifice to understand the life of being
By a true Christian and living like Jesus, though we may
being never be able to understand all He did to sacrifice for
active
church in the us. We only grow closer to God through receiving the
community, sacraments and continuing on in our faith journey,
to showing others the complexities of Christianity and
people
spreading the word of God
who how beautiful the journey can be. Living like Christ
haven't and embodying the Gospel, while sharing it with
footsteps those who do not know the good news, is our mission
heard it, following in the
of
Christ, and communities and bring them to God.
as disciples so it is one of the ultimate ways of being
witnesses to Christ. We start being witnesses to
following the guidelines set
Christ in our own families and communities, which is
by the church, attempting
to be a saint.
the only way we can eventually be out in the world as
missionaries, so we need to bring up our own families



PAGE 29 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






How can we be witnesses to Christ?









Ashley Thoonkuzy

We can be witnesses to Christ by showing
God's love to others, even if they are unkind to
us. Anyone can be nice to someone who is nice
to them, but being a witness to Christ means
showing the love of Christ to everyone. We can Richard Jerry
be witnesses to Christ by leading by example.
We can show the truth of Christ by showing We can be witnesses to Christ
the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit (ex. love,


faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). This with
joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, by sharing our spiritual stories
inspire
and
others
to
will show everyone what the traits of Christ
enlighten them. Sharing and
are. We can be witnesses to Christ by having a explaining the gospel with
others helps them understand
positive attitude as much as possible. When
people see us, they should see the love of live the Word of God. Helping
others in their faith journey by
we have, which stems from our religion. We
holding group prayer sessions.
can be witnesses to Christ by not gossiping,
backbiting, or talking badly about others. We Lending a hand to others in
times of need to show them the
can be witnesses to Christ by praying for our
any
Answer
God.
of
love
friends, and sharing the word of God with our questions that others may have
so that they may grow deeper
friends. in faith.
Jason Payyappilly





church
By being active in the
community,
spreading
the
word
of
God to people who
haven't
heard
it,
following in the footsteps
of Christ, following the
guidelines
set
by the
church, and attempting
to be a saint.




PAGE 30 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





12TH GRADE


SERVICE PROJECT








































T h i s y e a r ’ s s e n i o r s e r v i c e p r o j e c t w a s i n s p i r e d b y t h i s b i b l e
v e r s e . T h e C l a s s o f 2 0 2 1 w a n t e d t o s h o w t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f

b r i n g i n g o t h e r s , e s p e c i a l l y y o u n g e r c h i l d r e n c l o s e r t o t h e c h u r c h .
W e d r e w a f e w c h i l d r e n s u r r o u n d i n g J e s u s . O n e r u n n i n g t o J e s u s ,
Let the o n e t a l k i n g t o J e s u s , o n e l i s t e n i n g t o J e s u s a n d a n o t h e r w a i t i n g

f o r J e s u s t o c o m e . T h e s e c h i l d r e n r e p r e s e n t t h e F a i t h F o r m a t i o n
children C h i l d r e n i n o u r d e c i d e d C r e a t i n g t h i s m u r a l w a s u p s t a i r s d i f f i c u l t
c h u r c h .
l o n g ,
a
f e a t u r e
t o
W e
i n
t h e
t h e
m u r a l
p r o c e s s .
come to f e l l o w s h i p h a l l . A f t e r t h e i d e a w a s a p p r o v e d , w e h a d t o f i g u r e o u t
g o
p a i n t i n g
a n d
a b o u t
d r a w i n g
t o
m u r a l .
w e
W e
h o w
t h e
w a n t e d
me” h a d t o p r i m e t h e e n t i r e w a l l w h e r e t h e m u r a l w a s t o b e d r a w n o n .
w h e r e
t h e
s p e c i f i c
o u t
u s e d
a
T h e n ,
w e
h e l p
f i g u r e
t o
p r o j e c t o r
d i m e n s i o n s o f t h e m u r a l w o u l d l i e . A f t e r t h a t , w e t r a c e d a n d t h e n
Mark 10:14 p a i n t e d t h e m u r a l . T h e m u r a l ’ s p u r p o s e w a s a g a i n t o b r i n g u s
c l o s e r t o G o d , e s p e c i a l l y o u r y o u n g c h i l d r e n , t h e f u t u r e u s .
- I s a b e l A l e x a n d e r a n d A n n M u r i k e n
PAGE 31 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





























































































PAGE 32 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






























































R A I S I N G H O P E R E F R E S H M E N T


S T A N D F U N D R A I S E R
As you can see in these photos, the Raising Hope is back to in

person fundraising! Finally after the COVID pandemic is calming

down, Raising Hope was able to commence their first in person
fundraiser in over a year! Members from this organization sold

snacks and cold drinks at the 2021 Syro Soccer Tournament. All of

the proceeds went to the Raising Hope organization.









PAGE 33 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021






Green Army &



Care for Creation Seedlings Project

































St. Thomas Syro Malabar Church , Somerset, NJ has made an exemplary contribution
towards the Hunger Hunt Initiative of Fr. Chiramal. The members of Green Army ministry

and Care for Creation student ministry of the parish, under the leadership of Vicar Rev. Fr.

Antony Pullukattil, brought together the CCD students and parents for a wonderful seedling
distribution project. Vegetable Seedlings of okra, beans, curry leaves, melons and other

vegetables were started and grown at church and at homes. The seedlings were distributed

among parishioners and donations were collected towards the good cause of helping
“Hunger Hunt”. The Project was able to raise approximately Rs. 600,000/$8000. The amount

was handed over to Fr. Chiramel for the Hunger Hunt initiative. We would like to thank all

our parishioners who donated generously for this cause. Congratulations to the Care for
Creation team and the green army team for a job well done!



Let us all join together to create a feast of love in the hearts of the hungry.

May God bless you all.
T r u l y I t e l l y o u , w h a t e v e r y o u d i d f o r

o n e o f t h e l e a s t o f t h e s e b r o t h e r s a n d
s i s t e r s o f m i n e , y o u d i d f o r m e . "
M a t h e w 2 5 : 4 0


PAGE 34 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021





























































































PAGE 35 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




SUNDAY BIBLE READINGS: JULY








D A T E R E A D I N G B I B L E V E R S E S





0 7 / 0 4 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g D e u t 4 : 1 0 - 1 4




S e c o n d R e a d i n g
1 C o r 1 6 : 1 - 1 4



G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 3 : 2 2 - 3 0




0 7 / 1 1 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g 1 K g s 1 8 : 3 0 - 3 9




S e c o n d R e a d i n g 1 C o r 1 : 9 - 1 6




G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 4 : 7 - 1 4




F i r s t R e a d i n g
0 7 / 1 8 / 2 0 2 1 D e u t 4 : 3 2 - 4 0



S e c o n d R e a d i n g 2 C o r 3 : 4 - 1 2




G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 5 : 1 1 - 3 2




0 7 / 2 5 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g D e u t 5 : 6 - 1 6




S e c o n d R e a d i n g 2 C o r 7 : 1 - 1 1




G o s p e l R e a d i n g J n 9 : 1 - 1 2 , 3 5 - 3 8




PAGE 36 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




SUNDAY BIBLE READINGS: AUGUST






D A T E R E A D I N G B I B L E V E R S E S




0 8 / 0 1 / 2 0 2 1
F i r s t R e a d i n g D e u t 5 : 1 6 - 2 4


S e c o n d R e a d i n g
2 C o r 1 0 : 1 2 - 1 8


G o s p e l R e a d i n g M k 7 : 1 - 1 3



0 8 / 0 8 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g L e v 2 3 : 3 3 - 4 4



S e c o n d R e a d i n g 2 C o r 1 2 : 1 4 - 2 1



G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 6 : 1 9 - 3 1



F i r s t R e a d i n g
0 8 / 1 5 / 2 0 2 1 L e v 1 9 : 1 - 4 , 9 - 1 4


S e c o n d R e a d i n g 1 T h e s s 2 : 1 - 1 2



G o s p e l R e a d i n g J n 2 : 1 - 1 2



0 8 / 2 2 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g L e v 1 9 : 1 5 - 1 8




S e c o n d R e a d i n g 1 T h e s s 2 : 1 4 - 2 0


G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 8 : 1 - 8


0 8 / 2 9 / 2 0 2 1
G o s p e l R e a d i n g D e u t 6 : 2 0 - 2 5



2 T h e s s 1 : 3 - 1 0
G o s p e l R e a d i n g


G o s p e l R e a d i n g L k 1 8 : 3 5 - 4 3



PAGE 37 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021




SUNDAY BIBLE READINGS: SEPTEMBER








D A T E R E A D I N G B I B L E V E R S E S





0 9 / 0 5 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g D e u t 7 : 7 - 1 1




S e c o n d R e a d i n g
2 T h e s s 2 : 1 4 - 3 : 3



G o s p e l R e a d i n g M t 1 3 : 1 - 9 , 1 8 - 2 3




0 9 / 1 2 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g D e u t 7 : 1 2 - 1 6




S e c o n d R e a d i n g P h i l 1 : 1 2 - 2 5




G o s p e l R e a d i n g M t 1 3 : 2 4 - 3 0




F i r s t R e a d i n g
0 9 / 1 9 / 2 0 2 1 D e u t 8 : 1 1 - 2 0



S e c o n d R e a d i n g P h i l 2 : 1 - 1 1




G o s p e l R e a d i n g M t 4 : 1 2 - 1 7




0 9 / 2 6 / 2 0 2 1 F i r s t R e a d i n g D u e t 9 : 1 - 6




S e c o n d R e a d i n g P h i l 3 : 1 - 1 1




G o s p e l R e a d i n g M t 1 7 : 1 4 - 2 1




PAGE 38 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021



Birthdays!









April



Ashley Thoonkuzhy Josh Mathew Joseph Mathew Maya Nettikkadan
Richard Jerry Ann Kallacheril Hannah Arun Anna George

Sandra Mathew Johan Justin Sarah Menachery Issa Tom
Sarah Varghese Maria Mathew Evelyn Anish Aidan Abraham

Alexis Thoonkuzhy Michael Mathew Zara Paul Jacob Kurian

Ken Abraham Jeevan John Joshua Shine Mark Maliekal


May



Ann Murickan Jennifer Jose Sofia Mathew Dan Thomas

Albert Sebastian Prisha Satish Jason Jimmy Irene Thomas
Isabel Alexander Maria Vellara Evan Alexander Isabel Jinson

Liya Joby Leanna Joju Liana George Rita Sebastian

Divya Ann Fiona Anto Dania Primal Matthew Kappil
Amal Joshy Hannah Augustine Joseph Varghese Isabel Alvin

Chris Thayil Jonathan Navin Rebecca Parampettu Isabelle Anto
Gerald Nikhil Joji Thomas George Joanna Ajesh

Sebastian Prithika Satish Niah Arun
Meera James

June



Bevan Roy Joseph George Joseph Vellara Aiden Nereparambil

Marvell Prime Jacob Alexander Faith Alexander Joshua Mathew

Ethan Mathew Diya Mathew Austin Kuriakose Aiden Biju
Jerrine George Anthony Kandavanam Siona Jain Norah Jerin

Michael Abraham Laya Paul Ryssa Sunil
Manav Paul Nikhil Abraham Diya Mangan






PAGE 39 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2