"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not,
nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say; I have no pleasure in them" (Ecclesiastes
12:1)
The Orthodox Christian Youth Movement (OCYM) unit at St. Thomas Indian Orthodox
Cathedral was formed in 2006 under the spiritual guidance of our priest Rev. Fr.
Thomas Varghese, fondly known as Saji Achen. The youth movement is a group of enthusiastic
youngsters and married couples who strive to act as a key catalyst in guiding the
younger generation towards the Lord Almighty. Achen has been a great inspiration
in fostering spiritual awakening among the youth members of the church. Through
his valuable thoughts and religious nurturing, Achen helps the youth movement in
many ways.
Worship, study and service, as the motto itself suggests, has played a very practical
role among the youth. This has helped lead the youth into the mainstream of the
church and society besides generating awareness in their minds through theme oriented
seminars and interactive discussions. Youth meetings are held every third Sunday
of the month after the Holy Qurbana. The sessions involve prayer, Bible reading,
songs, group discussions, quizzes, games, etc. Regular classes on faith, liturgy
and traditions of the church are also conducted. The youth movement also publishes
an annual newsletter on behalf of the cathedral.
The youth movement would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to Saji Achen and
the managing committee for guiding us with their valuable advice and never-ending
support. We rededicate ourselves to the cathedral and its members towards the greater
good of elevating the church to greater heights. Back home at our headquarters in
India, H G Yuhanon Mar Meletius is President and Rev. Fr. Spencer Koshy is General
Secretary of the Orthodox Christian Youth Movement.
May the Good Lord continue to shower his abundant blessings on this congregation
and our church. May the intercession of Saint Mary, Saint Thomas our patron saint,
Saint Gregorios, Saint Dionysius, Saint Baselios Geevarghese and all the others
be a stronghold for us.
Secretary for the year 2011-2012: Mr Praveen George
Treasurer: Miss Elizabeth Thomas