Faith Connections Issue 2 - Dukrana and Faith in our Country

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

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Submissions from Children
& Teachers

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Alter Serving Information Editorial Message

PAGE 16 Welcome to the latest edition of our Faith Formation Newsletter! This
edition’s theme is about Dukrana, the feast day of our father in faith,
Choir Interview 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 17 fell on July 4. The feast day of our father in faith, St. Thomas, fell just
one day before the feast day of our American Independence. St.
Bible Quiz Finals 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
PAGE 19 holidays of our American nation. We chose to highlight both these
major celebrations because they are both important aspects of our
CCD Annual Day identity. Our Syro-Malabar Church teaches us the Catholic faith while
incorporating our Indian culture, while the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
PAGE 21 Diocese of Chicago helps us to live this faith fruitfully in America. The
purpose of this newsletter is to provide you with inspiration to live as
Academy Day a faithful Catholic in our Indian-American society.

PAGE 23 The theme for our next newsletter is the Rosary. Please don’t hesitate
to send any feedback or questions our way via email at
CCD Class of 2021! [email protected]
Also, if you're going to eighth grade or above, and are interested in
PAGE 24 joining our Faith Formation Newsletter Team, please send a message
to the above email address.
Soccer Tournament
Wishing you a very happy and blessed Dukrana and Independence Day!
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Raising Hope

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Care for Creation

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Sunday Bible Readings

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Birthdays!

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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

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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

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St. Thomas Thomas doubts the word of his fellow apostles when they tell
and Faith him, “We have seen the Lord.” He says that unless he also
in America sees, he will not believe. Let us not imitate Thomas at this
moment, for “blessed are those who have not seen and have
By Sister believed” (John 20:29).
Mary Ann
Marshall Yet, eight days later, on this day, the eighth day of Pascha
(Easter), Thomas also sees the Lord, who appears among
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.

It is to be remembered that St. Thomas the Apostle did more
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
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.

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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 Catholic Church in America and aroused the
America in order to understand the importance of the suspicion of Protestants. A nativist Protestant
presence of St. Thomas Christians as they are the crusade was formed and was characterized by
exemplars of FAITH! intense anti-Catholic prejudice.

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

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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 My Lord
numbers of Catholics held political office at the local and my
and national levels and the ecumenical movement God!"
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.

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
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
local languages.

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

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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.”

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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

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ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

St. Thomas Cross Maria George

By John Maliekal, Grade 5 Kindergarten

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
designed. The next time you see the Saint Thomas
Cross, you’ll know what each part of the cross means.

Thomas George

Grade 4

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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
Sreosutrhreecotitohne.r 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!

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Jonah Aleena Biju
Thottathil
Grade 5
Grade 1

2 7P A G E 1 1 Steve Mathew

Grade 1

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Dukhrana flowers that stayed suspended in the air. Most of
the Brahmins converted on the spot, while some
By Maria George, Grade 9 ran away out of fear.

Dukhrana, celebrated on July 3rd, is one of the principal He was martyred with a spear by Brahmins who
feasts of our Syro-Malabar Catholic faith. It is the day resisted the message of Christianity while praying
celebrating the martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle, our on St. Thomas Mount in Mylapore near Chennai,
father in faith, and his triumphant entry into Heaven. Tamil Nadu in 72 A.D. His remains were removed
from India in the 3rd century and sent to Edessa in
St. Thomas is commonly known for his doubt, but he was Mesopotamia, and were later relocated to their
a man of deep courage as well. When the apostles did not current resting place in Ortona, Italy.
want to go back to Judea with Jesus for fear of the Jews,
Thomas said “let us also go, that we may die with Him.” Thus, the reason that the Feast of Dukhrana is so
(John 11:16). It was this fortitude, a gift of the Holy Spirit, important to us is because it is the feast of the
that led St. Thomas to bravely proclaim the Gospel and to apostle who brought the message of Jesus to our
give his life for the Lord. Though Thomas doubted, he ancestors, in order that they might be converted
made one of the greatest statements of faith in Jesus that and saved, and so pass that message on to us.
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 Joanna Ajesh
sight of some Brahmins in the village of Palur, where he
found them throwing water in the air as a part of their Kindergarten
Hindu rituals, trying to call on the sun god to accept it.
The water was never accepted, and it dropped back onto
the soil. St. Thomas also threw water in the air, calling on
the name of Jesus, and it was transformed into sparkling

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Anna George

Grade 2

Aiden Biju

Kindergarten

The Mystery
Saint is...
St. Martin de Porres

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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.

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Aron Joseph George

Kindergarten

PAGE 15 Jeremy Thottathil

Grade 3

Kevin Jojan

Grade 7

FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

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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

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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.

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CHOIR IN OUR CHURCH!

An Interview with Jolly Thadikaran and Merin Kalapurackal:

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

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021
BIBLE QUIZ FINALS

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

PAGE 20 HIGH SCHOOL

Maria George
Alyssa M Simon
Jerrine George
Anna L Vellara

FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

CCD ANNUAL DAY

PAGE 21 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

CCD ANNUAL DAY

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

CttpehoflhwhvhdmavuooiseIttmeatauileeihrpshseufltrtstrnheiefopayrthctlehw.iterttwgoaeahsesrsoIedryraineele,itltvthparsyatndprheueinar,ieelmtsidannrtolevnGaoyhnpigIuedevglmtootwedainieiof.pzormnearetedroeteTetthsboydruopshahnmeweotfnoeltiiitoamohutmsnedocrorhflhrtetsogierhepaaaotz.cme.mtelinhonueogthaImpFldmrettgoIemrlpret.tipohitauemtzheTealgoowmahndeenanhnuraruiatitaotdtiedsstmtg.rnoashwsyGnhbgtcisnIeolthnfaetohyaoaicwiobsagandvduodaemrnyntrdelkrosolgidcioeoliiarynmrsiwotnidhafmbtevthtvgitehsaoimhafaebeihonIofluolliatosewieeagwlgmsnthzuoclrsmlrwipiaeeaowtwsantntayeenaou.hvmdghegafnsd.snteseeIodesedteer TmbhwtetpbswaLshahTcehdawnterienaogehoriestariacietsndofhaomennryohfgtfrguituireiguslenrmn.gersgyghtruorfsia,eohWnhauraowwnvtpnfnigonnweadoeireiGtettdpiniannrnereicnhmoricseorsddtaaasdadsuttotpestleansyhtiahtlsoinvroatdehmnoewoeaaiptuGmnrnrcmdry.neibrrtodoectueiaadhlagudAhinihceaylnatnnmrtggnooslehtohhgpsythasiuoroaatuaahrrpetlanmtaavtprdegchdotnrdcoebsthooerefectuh,weasomepnbrnaieaugencuctlieoswwmaephtedsipctcinhduhhspto,sudihbks.h,estianomnoIuectnheeaTbttraihtrwmoepththctcutncgyIwaearihetIuhhcsoaainrrcriienvaowelrcurnohcaliivatvhcpgbmonaogtaamoeteoyrhswmegsbhoIferwanchaofefsmhinIaahptesislrumeenlhbumeealluthflatcdilsrteytnprusaeyyytehheGetioieivsoniohtaeroomtntdiieyutgueanroosocdngoed.tf.
my journey.
Ann Muriken
Albert Sebastian
The church has helped me grow
and provided a place for me to aPtaahrThehwbmeAeeherhheoowawhslTxneeoilppusocgphephoaspethnhrteeeitytfgodcehuhaiedrstrnshrcialrdehomItecliacmhtrneyuwhnbhlgueh,neiocioytrtrnaiiheIgohctegwtnavsalrheyardstetaohsosplatoolmswahthwaaontonwusaomnisuwcn'nwwdstoitcecenederehgahi1dehrftltnew2soefoedotertuwnoehnyewlmdtlapnalteeehdhhoenpnearIaeteaeemeddrdrnhrsnipswaepyadeygot.metetashIaoOhnfrtrrtseyeawteheets.nwihotwteIteetgcpiriaoeonhnnhfrmeuosreofctulajIetdfrplehwortittaatamlceuudoaiihymIrhnncrriutrynenCclnhaedtbrethhoCetiaswmafonsieayDttfsoedatgolan.hCinthpvyasraiywaChetsesaey.sshaDaartd.iat.nsnl
meet similar individuals who
have also been brought up in
this atmosphere. The church is
made up of the people. And
these people have helped me in
my faith journey. Even when I
was in a very rough place, I
always got brought back to the
church because my family has
always been super involved.
Some areas I would like to
improve is my spiritual
laziness. I feel like I have a
resistance to praying because I
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 mtcbqttoghictofhahgehnuyOuroaoemnaliaeesotnirlifvtdtttslleweameikpeahttnvimoegineut.weegowiheedciynOsninenpetoficmjursCmhstabouoeoIrythnaeyumleuafaedtCudrarnbhyvagfnngrhantcoecooit'rehugyetvrhhroguwfyereiaewotc.anqsiimtooChrssgtuhremidfhhhmeeenaheaamu;sysaescmhvCtrttsesochieIothtfoethmoerehawauronyafdliearmphstdocstmommhobaauftohnp.assehheynuy'tethstaeariPbntftaavcl1uaeeyif2sectegcfiCorethtsetohshhynrthihhi.ovmhetenruti.neoalAnaaokrmmphIautrcdngeasilrekhgueontlrhdevnhnyrhitehaiese,ohoimnaahmocltdweutbpgtyhawIerytyss

The Church has played an integral part in helping
me grow in faith. With my mom being sick, the
Church gave me the hope to never lose faith and
continue to pray rigorously. The members of our
Church have given me the most moral support in
ensuring that despite going through a lot growing
up, I remain faithful to God and my family as an
obedient child. Furthermore, the responsibilities I
took up at church including being an altar serving
leader, CML lead, and youth lead, have defined my
leadership abilities and made me into a committed
member of the Church. The retreats provided by
our Church have given me the best advice that I
still follow today. An area that has hindered my
faith journey was peer pressure. I would be
pressurized into thinking I am "too holy" and need
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

atCtWpitmoplchcanthChamrwcTolhooilsoeubhtaaonhsmametehvrtlrnmogeattyneciiemmeohndssahmctthetcCbiuuIogaCt,hinuaeeohonannbehatcgnonlunuiitnhlptuoicrdicentrmleetenriiacaecsgyncctdtctumtehwatCoihthelealnotrsuhhywtesnhypbfausuwiteeiruhlmfcipfrartlodroiwaiamhecyhyertilevnisheidihoitoicwgtnastnmdhpothrhmhngghdGeheh.lnteotieisyheoeovcslvWmCemlaedoiuateIfpsGictshhabntdieactteollnifauoseholoemItdrdditsrunhhnotswsco.hesttteo.ctmttheihapeiasmhotantiivmntrhrnhesAuaeeoematsleyntlto.vpnpmcatlifeoouyipndioaThodewsnyscehmrostepGplmpgnedeauylmemonlrsifygaoactfdem,emmCeuhcethiyw.lfhhentaeieaaisfihwueAikctnnepptiorerenasIy,deaaswcna.Iso,oIclhnowictDltepwtIaodtenmohciuhhlhmwatialmeaeaeytaayhicyrm.nsosnseha

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 Marvel Prime

IhhshtpnptLMCtpaShaatohaoeoavoeavbeawerasmeteccloasgrhaairdyuJnsiabrfbapobhheiotoniemlapcnlseexwhsieterrcugleweihin.eipcgsrsnneCTceaaehmptscihhrbClmmdsaitoaiurohatsseauinwsruuentbcagacliryturachdtonehnncuiaeseoltaiitdhbslsanhimtollnt:eutltgeylmeypihd.mWogbrohioaaCeonreofoihtnrCpinmsstecrtoedDehteeha.fnyfonrooclemraReayvGrmsyIfldteenaeooahcawoanrGuiadme,etlrfrloab'lhasilsycodtsveo,n.lehwieewpdRsnaetSyaetmoeoghsteGhordSwdkmhensameoyertamiedsmdatrnehedtreeoon,ege.e Throughout my years of CCD, the
Church has enabled me to grow
Isaac Alexander vastly spiritually. With years of
education from excellent teachers,
cwcEpbotCopiivbrhpmulstmmhtueaTeaahetrrpynthtacopteoioeareksslmIptinrestetnghGll.isleetvoerhhoayoeidnoeoIoianudlCbdruwkydvnsgtylhinoeoeuihtolatutudaicrfontbhokrtsii,rolcernheuelenatmIsyhrgher,a'lemtevlereIrdpaseeonmopmhanpveiraeaatrtyhden.eedcooehrvcarerapheftsotolb.tlsimpotilsegorhezheeNsghytoeaeeoiohhdwkorvqpmseneiviulllcmnnhelaaeiekahpfdgdsonrkaielowectnlwyit.atoydonttghon.olem1dddoid2ErImnbfoieevIosleetmspmeyevtromsoortaefmersemaorhytarrariarctnfyiyreeesattsoaeGnoainind,ndnoodgontobtadenndrsbettyay.o.si,ou',ltswltI my knowledge in faith and of the
has grown
Catholic Church

exponentially. Many teachers gave
their real life experiences in classes
which gave valuable life lessons to
me. Outside the physical CCD
classroom, becoming an altar server
has also allowed me to grow as a
Catholic over these past years.
Becoming an altar server allowed me
to take on a much larger role in my
participation of the holy mass and
gave me an opportunity to have a
closer relationship with God

PAGE 27 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

How can we be witnesses to Christ?

Augustine George Elita Moloparambil

TtecewsJWomhoovhhexhaHespsboueafdeaeeciaostoaCrestnlrmrucrucmdslsspshiiaeghyrcshnttiiipiremancefd'aooyangiiflsmalgpt,srenrnageei.niiaMwttzarraneotaoFhlayeJraaimntnnfiietytensbssnotaldnsicnes,stisloaaulehef,ue,,talcnwettssuuhscilact,a,nysoarsornitfces,ccsvaoystmradaptsstihiahansuensattaiepc.srqdtgitiwltcanotoelouWuhhreikhCussutwaveeaoCtepiehgtemnexbttrophosnihrocplatenrarwrioieyaehmdksiirscofnsnnetwtta.ep,htpttchriignhacaac.eaaeahWloetaraeielnl'rcnafahrpstginersedneitoEeacseclpagbluhtitsacidiatbefiehpewcf,uanienobvleoaPhrarned,igieoorcntataannhuwiuhhrrwalnamaotiigseicissgosiciosthoadJuotthtnulnptcdefsnildtsceinitshueaethisuoasesaapnotwtsttiussnyrlaghdlnfhh,si,seir.seeleen,l TCysGsmtcbpocpdhthohhnehFbwovaEweeafhuaoeuoruiraeaendvclrrfrvsihsrukneltteosaooetituselmeihcgbtcircnomudcapens.days,rsertrggaialsyaaperas,a.pFwvyrhy.bCertwceliaaeooavsStoifrlhraSttoeieuoaufisncbearricikswimntsccklhodocimecxii,ssctistpotnaihn,ttuawtitiateayiwohrnaanvaoilnlnkniwnoiHiatt,dirngantgteoeittueineshar,thdpistsydttayeebaoys,lhtcohyuoshteisrest.hltiaeshuohepteannehWeetnresuooedvtweHosotmcfuhapeesrbosctoacsacgcluausarthtisoeabdilynahtcibfrhsayenvcssefntkameioaelaibeervaicJMhnrucanrinoaleseotwldapadciaiitmdhityfsvmkpnnovatfosiaauioJeeiceaegdrssrrwebnosbteiints,keescpoesdwnsieagtwfaevt.teohiauyrraihiafntignC.evretssotlythnyelgataniiqthhiFnroovinagtafgoneurcroeuelpehutegwnafdiosiJieusrssrrelfpidsbiuensitiri.tenoncf.tazsyshgetitSwwo.fsnTlaatohuWfsheoatoyriheoonotn,sosetvWtodhisirrr,sfehueoynoicrusaSkkeorevdofneweactsr,uGrsCtifriu,p.osehcntae,olnoelhytatvyiosrcWdstcretifoiattitneoauophviehaaantohhnurasedunlen,ceayrnegeetdde.lt.
blessed.
Liya Joby
Jos Parayil
You can be a life witness, through
evangelization, sacramental life, dssaimtiWhmWcsWrocceeepeeuoinapolrngmdrmmlditetnihuauusngsn.ssgtatttolttfskuohootnnethodahewreebtprWoWestrthtaohoaeyrernddgd.WW.oIfWootaotodrchrireddtse..
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
to those who aspire to live a life
according to Jesus. Evangelization
means to speak to others about
Jesus, and the salvation He gives.
We should be a witness by
worshipping the Eucharist. Divine
life is imparted by the Eucharist
and other holy sacraments. Acts of
charity include feeding the poor or
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 GsaWfoHwaeoelooWnfibovexcoosdfealoieeprdyacnsusmelhhhcgtalMpsaoaienvwppalnrulsdaaeiisJilyGztlrtsadeubsyyheno.kste,euedueeWsansamns.rafsegn.gaonlsrdgiarwadyfgareWiapieetta.sennnoeapnxsadeiredatntltsamshisWsckoeshpihsoeebpoltthavcetyoauaviooi,tnllaime/ddbnldwsgooeegihwnriitlvnoaoehaofitncgsuelonrhstsaglrkrgesod.nsa
Christ. One way is to continue reading and
understand the word of God. Take time to just
read and reflect the bible. Another way is to
actively come to Church even after graduating
from CCD. This means staying engaged with
your church family and trying to participate in
church activities. The third way of being
witness to Christ is being engaged with your
family. This means attending family prayer,
helping your family, and simply spending time
with them. The fourth way is by bringing Christ
to school and studies. Before you start studying
or do work, say a simple prayer, and once you
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.

Tia Dinker Merissa Joju

tbffohtoysocBoelpbohlyareotturehswrdaatpecbeideshnpeiiaocgtnisiph,nngtlugthefr.toechlhlaegoow,cuwftwhiaidiovctoneteorgledmimnhCmiieopnanhsfutvrinesitGnsenhitogttth'ey,dte, amtCwatahshnsunahshsbpinohwiaoeTedsusetorerudcotmdwh.snaivfasorcrrswiifeWyeeeuybanoostelebrsieeicmopmnlrepwnmkiseyriibfdneaogepCneemaihoebayrrwrssnlhguonosisnioeuoseatanrtoCultdadsintsidistybygbnrhshfnyoi,oslaualttrgwaewideosoeoiiinllnrnroarwes,Ceuatsogseidotntssoyhrttanww,lhctehtaacraaiuteocehlfirkstrnwhncnvtsaonwoiienndoljetefodomndeuooenoi.esnnctcebgsuvilweiosGeelirbehWrrehrndiivhsmieonrneenautotniteilpstieshnotvppatfiagnoprunyoegeonltatuagsweaetgirbhdnygnGtoclhldlxiritea,dleaodneotoikaeioyartrhnnomesdlnuerwtc.ilbhdgreloGgTbhJsttwHeittsibmuhpnoiteohnoeioemialoeprsdesoe.tmeGoniuudwnofnastnLocwudutoshiuthe,isgsaCud,gednvisoirr,whtnrhtnhtiosi.hwtiwhanthwrfeosuodetirairgoaweghsioiGetoicsotlunysttohe.cinulaoantis,ghgfieIanhrcdekewnhwfionrCesCeamvjiooiffthiosorwhmthifothrfseniCiuirbryrclsecceidsbigdrhiewlsuhesswneieamiritsbetitanoretiinfhiithssensoaoasgnyhodtatesygnri,ontts

PAGE 29 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

How can we be witnesses to Christ?

Ashley Thoonkuzy Richard Jerry

WGutsbWtjfwaopphsowochbaecefr.eodeoairyeaiaeetltiAwson,w'nclhe.chscfipnkiehatnriWfastblbnlyiubmupnadohnneveoegeiilvesveoet,tnnsea,ebssictswwwebeen,chhasaaeasteuigeieoentncwotstnet,t,swndanu,wvldihbooneotbgesteiiestuprs,vogstetecrhbhdsnhseaynhitiwteaeefCneheeotetatorrisisghslensslntseifeksatryntne,itnntaorieeCiscgoeesouncsefsmehwstvwehtgsmtCtsrehCs,thsohbthiiehonubs,thoaueyesrnfotcaartlksiirdiefhtlwnHdfstooCiseotsotndlomtmtohCahssyadhlCrberedheseysbneditheaveyiroosoyyeniSbelrttpunostfspigrrpoah-otsCrenfsayrciurbtse,hbioaorGeowbrttysirtbyynesntloiyiuhiooybeglstdnegs(niovto.tolrseghxghoehkoefWhwoxiiamosa.eilsodo.fnsm)oivCweronetW.wnilndifshhpopri.anTce.iinhrlvicnlthagnsiioWnoWgeeoeevsnssiguug.nsa,te,eer,r We can be witnesses to Christ
friends. by sharing our spiritual stories
with others to inspire and
enlighten them. Sharing and
explaining the gospel with
others helps them understand
the Word of God. Helping
others in their faith journey by
holding group prayer sessions.
Lending a hand to others in
times of need to show them the
love of God. Answer any
questions that others may have
so that they may grow deeper
in faith.

Jason Payyappilly

tcgoofhhGsuocfBaubpoilhyvdlrerduCoeceerwhahntalbcoir,'dishnetinaaispeingnntiesng,dgoitnp.afslottatheehtlhcleetewteocamiwvhorfpedobomwi tnoyiomgtnirsnugdttntehhiptieteohtsy,fe,

PAGE 30 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

12TH GRADE
SERVICE PROJECT

Let the This year’s senior service project was inspired by this bible
children verse. The Class of 2021 wanted to show the importance of
come to bringing others, especially younger children closer to the church.
me” We drew a few children surrounding Jesus. One running to Jesus,
one talking to Jesus, one listening to Jesus and another waiting
Mark 10:14 for Jesus to come. These children represent the Faith Formation
Children in our church. Creating this mural was a long, difficult
process. We decided to feature the mural upstairs in the
fellowship hall. After the idea was approved, we had to figure out
how we wanted to go about painting and drawing the mural. We
had to prime the entire wall where the mural was to be drawn on.
Then, we used a projector to help figure out where the specific
dimensions of the mural would lie. After that, we traced and then
painted the mural. The mural’s purpose was again to bring us
closer to God, especially our young children, the future us.

- Isabel Alexander and Ann Muriken

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

RAISSINTGANHDOPFEUNRDEFRRAEISSEHRMENT

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. Truly I tell you, whatever you did for

one of the least of these brothers and

sisters of mine, you did for me."

Mathew 25:40

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

DATE READING BIBLE VERSES

07/04/2021 First Reading Deut 4:10-14

Second Reading 1Cor 16:1-14

Gospel Reading Lk 13:22-30

07/11/2021 First Reading 1 Kgs 18:30-39

Second Reading 1 Cor 1:9-16

07/18/2021 Gospel Reading Lk 14:7-14
First Reading Deut 4:32-40

Second Reading 2Cor 3:4-12

Gospel Reading Lk 15:11-32

07/25/2021 First Reading Deut 5:6-16

Second Reading 2 Cor 7:1-11

Gospel Reading Jn 9:1-12,35-38

PAGE 36 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

SUNDAY BIBLE READINGS: AUGUST

DATE READING BIBLE VERSES

08/01/2021 First Reading Deut 5:16-24

08/08/2021 Second Reading 2Cor 10:12-18
08/15/2021
08/22/2021 Gospel Reading Mk 7:1-13
08/29/2021
First Reading Lev 23:33-44

Second Reading 2 Cor 12:14-21

Gospel Reading Lk 16:19-31
First Reading Lev 19:1-4, 9-14

Second Reading 1 Thess 2:1-12

Gospel Reading Jn 2:1-12

First Reading Lev 19:15-18

Second Reading 1Thess 2:14-20

Gospel Reading Lk 18:1-8

Gospel Reading Deut 6:20-25

Gospel Reading 2 Thess 1:3-10

Gospel Reading Lk 18:35-43

PAGE 37 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2

ISSUE 2 JULY 2021

SUNDAY BIBLE READINGS: SEPTEMBER

DATE READING BIBLE VERSES

09/05/2021 First Reading Deut 7:7-11

Second Reading 2 Thess 2:14-3:3

Gospel Reading Mt 13:1-9,18-23

09/12/2021 First Reading Deut 7:12-16

Second Reading Phil 1:12-25

Gospel Reading Mt 13:24-30
Deut 8:11-20
09/19/2021 First Reading

Second Reading Phil 2:1-11

Gospel Reading Mt 4:12-17

09/26/2021 First Reading Duet 9:1-6

Second Reading Phil 3:1-11

Gospel Reading Mt 17:14-21

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
Sandra Mathew Ann Kallacheril Hannah Arun Anna George
Sarah Varghese
Johan Justin Sarah Menachery Issa Tom
Alexis Thoonkuzhy
Ken Abraham Maria Mathew Evelyn Anish Aidan Abraham

Michael Mathew Zara Paul Jacob Kurian

Jeevan John Joshua Shine Mark Maliekal

May

Ann Murickan Jennifer Jose Sofia Mathew Dan Thomas
Albert Sebastian Prisha Satish
Isabel Alexander Maria Vellara Jason Jimmy Irene Thomas
Leanna Joju
Liya Joby Fiona Anto Evan Alexander Isabel Jinson
Divya Ann Hannah Augustine
Amal Joshy Jonathan Navin Liana George Rita Sebastian
Chris Thayil
Nikhil Joji Dania Primal Matthew Kappil
Gerald Prithika Satish
Sebastian Joseph Varghese Isabel Alvin
Meera James
Rebecca Parampettu Isabelle Anto

Thomas George Joanna Ajesh

Niah Arun

June

Bevan Roy Joseph George Joseph Vellara Aiden Nereparambil
Joshua Mathew
Marvell Prime Jacob Alexander Faith Alexander Aiden Biju
Norah Jerin
Ethan Mathew Diya Mathew Austin Kuriakose

Jerrine George Anthony Kandavanam Siona Jain

Michael Abraham Laya Paul Ryssa Sunil

Manav Paul Nikhil Abraham Diya Mangan

PAGE 39 FAITH IN OUR COUNTRY EDITION | ISSUE 2