Magazine of February 2021 | Lent Volume XIX | Issue 02 | Rs. 150/Annum

Healing and Wholeness

www.csi1947.com 1 www.csi1947.com Disclaimer: The Author of each article published in this magazine owns his or her own words. The opinions, believes and viewpoints expressed by the various 2 2 Februaryauthors 2021 on this magazine do not reflect the opinions, belief and view points of the official policies of the CSI SYNOD. Lent of Retrospection; Lent of Repentance; Lent of Hope

EDITORIAL am glad to greet you in the name promised. Let us remain thankful I of Jesus Christ, who came so because he has also promised that that we all might live life to the he will be with us till the end of fullest. the days.

At the outset, I would like We are expected to grow to express our heartfelt spiritually and reawaken our congratulations and appreciation relationship with the Lord to all those who were involved in throughout our life in this world. the development and distribution This Lenten season helps us self- of the new COVID 19 vaccine. examine ourselves and mend our We are glad the vaccine at ways and deeds so that we may present is been administered be growing each and every day in to the frontliners and will be the likeness of our Lord. Knowing subsequently available to all in the ourselves and aligning ourselves near future. Let us join together to with the Lord is considered thank our Lord who has enabled to be necessary for attaining the scientists, researchers and all humility, knowledge, wisdom others who have been a part of and understanding and we gain this noble process. it by frequently reflecting on our actions and attitudes. As the Lent season approaches, we ponder over how the previous Self-examination has always Lent season was. During been a vital component for that period, many had varied our development; let it be our experiences, for a few it was a personal development, spiritual time to spend with the family, for development or institutional a few it was a time of relaxation development. The more we are and rejuvenation, but for many, genuine in our self-examination, it was a time, which they would the more learn about our areas like to forget and not remember to develop. One of the important anymore. The pandemic has components in the process of self- affected in such a manner, that is examination is the standard we set has made scars for the lifetime. for our development. Who or what Though we have walked through is our standard? As Christians, the valley of death, our Lord was our standard is the perfect man with us and has comforted us as and perfect God, Jesus Christ.

www.csi1947.com 3 We are called towards growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Eph. 4:15. Like David who invited God to examine his life: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts” (Ps139:23), let us invite the omniscient God into our personal life, organisational and spiritual life that we may grow or develop up to His standards. It is a way of taking up our ‘cross’ and following Him (Matthew 16: 24). We are called not only to wear the cross but bear the cross.

May this penitential season be for every Christian a time of genuine development. I wish you, dear brothers and sisters, a fruitful Lenten journey.

C. Fernandas Rathina Raja General Secretary, CSI

4 February 2021 Article The Cross: A Pointer to a True Lent irectly strewn into the thoughts of denominations, and the updated World Dlent is the cross. The cross and the Christian Encyclopaedia estimated Christian are inseparable. The cross at least 33,000. A ‘Denomination’ is and are also not dissectible. defined as ‘an organised Christian “If anyone follows me he must take up group within a country’. The Centre the cross and follow me,” says the Lord for the Study of Global Christianity at Jesus Christ. Bearing the cross requires Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary denying oneself says, Christ. Wherever estimated 34,000 denominations in the fact of bearing the cross is referred 2000, rising to an estimated 43,000 in to it is to be understood that cross is a 2012. These numbers have exploded choice, specifically a personal choice, for from 1,600 in the year 1900. The splits bearing the cross. One will always have generally happened because they the opportunity to move out from the act could not agree on certain beliefs or of bearing the cross. Since an individual practices. The degree of difference in is responsible for bearing the cross it belief is hard to describe because most is understood as a constant presence of these denominations would have with the choice maker. It is a constant similar beliefs about major Christian companion and an unavoidable fact of doctrines such as God, creation, Jesus, life. It is said, “Life is wasted if we do not salvation, Holy Spirit, forgiveness, etc., grasp the glory of the cross, cherish it for and the differences would mostly be on the treasure that it is, and cleave to it as less essential matters and are almost the highest price of every pleasure and always subjective. They are separate the deepest comfort in every pain. What organisations, not necessarily different was once foolishness to us- a crucified beliefs. They are really not different God- must become our wisdom and our in doctrine but are self-dependent power and our only boast in this world.” organisations divided into independent churches which would have effectively The fact that every disciple has to bear the same teachings, just different the cross has many implications which locations and different leaders. are explored in this write-up. There are many points to be considered. However, These differences are certainly not the aim here is to highlight four areas of God centred because the word of God the cross-bearing where the Christian invariably speaks of one united church. community is losing its way on a fatal Many times the separations are wealth level. power and governance and ownership of institutions. The cost of creating a The first cross to bear is the cross unified body of Christ is the cross that of Unity: the modern church has to bear and it The Christianity envisioned by Jesus cannot be done without denying oneself Rev. Dr Jacob Chacko Christ is a unified Christianity and a and ones possessions. The cross being is an ordained minister of unified church. However, in reality, truly united and a uniting church and CSI from the Madhya the church is one of the most divided the neo philosophy of a borderless Diocese. He has his M.Com groups in the world. The sources suggest church is the challenge of Lent and from Gandhi university, Christian denominations can be divided should motivate us to think and involve BTh from Serampore (SIBS into six major ‘ecclesiastico-cultural beyond denominational barriers and Bangarapet) and D.Min mega-blocs’: Independents, Protestants, man-made ecclesiastical borders. from New York Theological Orientals, Orthodox, Roman Catholics Seminary, New York. He is a and Anglicans. There seem to be 40 The second cross to bear is the diploma holder in Clinical major divisions, each of whom might cross of simplicity: Pastoral Counseling, have some variation in belief and The Christian virtue propounded Serampore. praxis. World Christian Encyclopaedia by Christ was a conscious choice of apparently estimated almost 21,000 simplicity. It was further amplified by

www.csi1947.com 5 the apostles especially Paul whose against unworthy ambitions. The of Christianity exhort Christians view was that it was enough to have whole emphasis was a life lived as a to renounce material and worldly something to eat and dress. The early sacrifice to please the Lord. pleasures in order to follow Jesus. church was not exposed to riches Jesus’ injunction in Mark 6: 8– 9 to his and possessions. Jesus lived a simple Consumerism was never part of disciples was to “take nothing for the life and he taught a simple lifestyle. human thinking. Consumerism a journey. Choosing to reject personal Spirituality was always opposed to much-loved word of modernity aims amenities and follow an ascetic lifestyle materialism. Christianity has a long at protection or promotion of the is a protest against “a church and public tradition of voluntary poverty which is interests of consumers. The slogan of that embraces wealth, luxury and manifested in the form of asceticism, commercialization is that ‘the customer ostentatious power.” Martin Luther charity and almsgiving. is king.’ “Armaments, universal debt, viewed Mammon (or the desire for and planned obsolescence- those are wealth) as “the most common idol on Time has driven to oblivion the the three pillars of Western prosperity. earth”. For the rich ruler in Mark 10: whole emphasis of living simple. If war, waste, and moneylenders 17–31 wealth was an obstacle to faith. People choose Comfort as opposed were abolished, you’d collapse. And It is rather the man’s reluctance to to suffering. The initial church days while you people are over-consuming give up that wealth in order to follow forced the Christian community to the rest of the world sinks more and Jesus. Paul cites in first Timothy that, choose self-imposed poverty due to more deeply into chronic disaster.” “people who want to get rich fall into the ex-communications on their choice says, Aldous Huxley in his work, ‘The temptation and a trap and into many of the Christian faith. People lived Island’. “Are these things really better foolish and harmful desires that plunge in caves and away from their houses than the things I already have? Or am men into ruin and destruction” and because of the thought that faith and I just trained to be dissatisfied with that “the love of money is the root of all the Lord were far more important than what I have now?” wonders Chuck evil.” The mandate was to store up for possessions and riches. It was a true Palahniuk, in the lullaby. Thomas you treasures in heaven, where moth occasion of contentment as against Aquinas wrote “Greed is a sin against and rust do not destroy, and where lavishness. There were no evil desires God, just as all mortal sins, in as much thieves do not break in and steal. since there was nothing to desire. as man condemns things eternal for Early Christianity’s characteristic was the sake of temporal things. Today The Christians and their faith entity simplicity. Kindness and goodness in Christianity, and for that matter have fallen for this vanity of wealth were a new normal and it was radically for the whole of humanity, success to a level which seems to be deep opposite to greed and envy. Survival is interpreted in terms of wealth quicksand. We were taught not to love was on bare minimums and everybody and possessions. The currency has the world and the things of the world. was content. There was great self- uprooted the conscience and everything ‘Ambition’ is ‘greed’ rebranded.” control which functioned diagonally is measured monetarily. Strands according to Mokokoma Mokhonoana

6 February 2021 and the whole world has immersed mockers. For this cause he had come, rather than a practice and today’s itself in it. We are shifting from to bring peace to the enemies of God. ‘servants’ have become arrogant currency to a cashless economy and There is his commission, his work. and demanding. The Pharisees were the world has been conquered by the ‘The kingdom is to be in the midst of criticized for not moving a finger to digitalization and numbers rule over your enemies. And he who will not help. Today the trans-denominational names. How far away from Pauls suffer this does not want to be of the church leadership is not different teachings has the church moved away. Kingdom of Christ; he wants to be in functioning from the pharisaic The modern-day faith is losing its among friends, to sit among roses and modus operandi. Today’s leadership credibility because many so-called lilies, not with the bad people but the emphasises in getting things stalwarts of Christiandom are paraded devout people. O you blasphemers and done rather than in doing things as people who have been hoarding and betrayers of Christ! if Christ had done together. The leadership is becoming becoming rich at the expense of the what you are doing he would ever have inaccessible and estranged from the faithful and their hard-earned wealth. been spared’ said Luther.” quotes, flock. The key to successful leadership Many have given in to extravagance Dietrich Bonheoffer, in Life Together. today is influence not authority says, by unlawful ways. A true Lenten Ken Blanchard. This gives room repentance would be to turn away Today leadership everywhere, even for Lenten thoughts of true servant from wealth and possessions. in the church is up for sales. The leadership. The church is the servant overly politicised religious sphere of Christ and therefore the leaders The third cross to bear is the and of the church is to be abhorred. of the church are the servants of the cross of servant leadership: Lent truly is an appropriate time for people. Christianity cherished its ethos individuals and the church at large promulgated by the Lord Jesus Christ to think of giving up their evil desires The final cross to bear is the which was suffering for the right. The for wealth and the power that is cross of fidelity: mandate was to serve the marginalized acquired by it. This was to be done Fidelity in simple terms it is the poor and befriend the antagonists by renunciation and becoming the faithfulness. Fidelity refers to strict and the enemies. Jesus’ ministry was least. The modern-day philosophy observance of promises, duties and evident as he stood with the lepers, the that leadership is controlling others responsibilities. Fidelity comes from widows, the poor and the helpless in is unbiblical as opposed to serving the Latin root ‘fides’, which means the society. and working with others. We have a fidelity is the quality of being faithful beautiful model where our Lord puts or loyal. Someone without fidelity to ‘The cross is the school of love?’ on the apron and the girdle to wash a religion or belief is called an “Jesus Christ lived in the midst of his the feet of others and asks the disciples infidel. Fidelity is a strict adherence enemies. On the Cross he was utterly also to do the same. Today washing to every fact and detail resulting in alone, surrounded by evildoers and of feet has become a show event fair accuracy and exactness. You

www.csi1947.com 7 stay always faithful because you commitment to Christ. Life will be nothing,” says Adolf Eichmann in know there are an unseen end and the same behind closed doors as it is ‘Taking the Narrow Road’. a higher purpose for the pain and before a watching world. God is who inconvenience of the moment. ‘Fidelity He says He is. He is still faithful to Although Christians accept that the is the main criterion of love.’ Fidelity lead us forward with His light. He cross was the gallows on which Jesus is simply daring to be true in small never gives upon us. In turn, we need died, and uses it as a symbol and things as well as great, wrote Henry to keep our part of the faithfulness by repeatedly displaying on their Van Dyke. bargain and hold on to Him, no foreheads the sign of the cross. In matter what. The church is called contemporary Christianity, the cross The reasons for unfaithfulness to to be unwavering in the belief on is worn as a necklace, a crucifix on the the cause could be fatigue, fear Him no matter what happens, being wall of a church or as pectoral crosses. of the people (I Samuel 15: 24), strong and immovable in our belief The Orthodox are expected to wear a disillusionment as a result of which in Him who made us, saved us, and cross signifying baptism and hanging Judas capitulated and turned called us His very own. It is being the cross in their homes or on the Jesus over to the authorities and separate from the world’s thought altar. Catholics, Orthodox Catholic, Distractions. Solomon’s many wives patterns and practices being a citizen Oriental Orthodox, and lured him from faithfulness to God of a new order, setting our mind on Anglicans often make the Sign of (I Kings 11: 4). things above, on the very things of the the Cross upon themselves. Roman, kingdom of God. Choosing to do what Orthodox and Anglican bishops place When you’re down for the count, is right all the time even if it hurts across before their signature. The altar the greener grass grows dense at the and choosing to do what is right and cross sits atop or is suspended above fence line, taunting you with how pleasing to God. the altar table and is a focal point of life could be better. Even temporary the chancel and a large cross hangs fixes can lure us from staying on the When we are faced with making above the baptistery. Lutherans have a course. Areas where the church and decisions, choose the one that’s not very large altar cross. Martin Luther at Christians fall below par are the areas sinful and is pleasing to God, even if it the time of the Reformation retained of marriage, relationships, leadership, means being ridiculed and made fun the cross and crucifix and wrote ‘The money and financial management and of. Obey what God said in His Word cross alone is our theology.’ Jehovah in communicating the gospel of our the Lord Jesus said that if you love witnesses believe it constitutes Lord. Staying faithful means staying Him, then you should do what He idolatry. The Church of Jesus Christ emotionally close by a conscious and says. Unfaithfulness has no weight in of Latter-day Saints teaches that Jesus hard choice of loving the unlovable. It the kingdom of God. died on a cross; however, their leaders is taking a servant role in the tasks of state that ‘for us, the cross is the caregiving and finding ways to forgive May this lent mould us into true symbol of the dying Christ, while our quickly. Partners, be it in family, fidelity. Season of Lent beckons us to message is a declaration of the living money, leadership or ministry do not consciously more steadfast to God, Christ.’ find the strength in their work by how others and oneself. To maintain a much they have in common, but by high level of fidelity in our faith and The point of the matter is not what how they are able to work together practice Christians think of the cross but rather in spite of their differences. Any on the meaning and its influence on friendship is proven by their ability to Conclusion: their personal life of witness. The cross still talk to each other no matter what “The Christian community is a should shift from being a symbol to life throws at either of them. community of the cross, for it has been being a lifestyle. It is a way of living brought into being by the cross, and for the highest cause where nothing Moral convictions are bound by the focus of its worship is the Lamb else matters but God. It is an un- doctrines that remind us that God once slain …” writes John Stott. The deterring allegiance and unconditional is good, powerful, loving, and mandate that the Lord Jesus gave says, submission to the Lord who called is in control. Those convictions “If anyone would come after me, let us. It is our desire to count him above communicate that all of life is sacred him deny himself and take up his cross everything else the universe can offer. and worthy of respect. Life events and follow me.’ ‘The road is narrow. May this lent season motivate us to should not make our faith fickle and He who wishes to travel it more easily offer our utmost for His glory. weak. Jesus’ forgiveness expressed must cast off all things and use the on the cross, demands the same cross as his cane. This demands there kind of sacrificial grace, forgiveness, must be a true resolution to suffer and love to those around. Emotions willingly for the love of God in all and circumstances should not things.’ says St John of the Cross. “To allow the tough times to change our sum it all up, I must say that I regret

8 February 2021 Article Healing and wholeness Job 42: 1- 12, Psalm 6, 2 Corinthians 12: 1-10, John 5: 1-9

he World Health Organisation I am making my way, someone else T(WHO), at the year of its inception steps down ahead of me”(Jn. 5:7). The in 1948 defined health as “a state of important issue is, he never admits his complete physical, mental and social role in the healing process. well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” This definition 1. Self-responsibility of Health includes all areas of life which are Health responsibility is an important related to a person’s life. Jesus in matter of concern. Proper diet, rest and his ministry incorporated all these exercise will boost up the physical health aspects and helped people for the of a person. Psychological struggles also complete well-being of life. Well-being needs special attention. Stress, anxiety, has different dimensions: they are depression, hopelessness, helplessness, physical, emotional, financial, social, meaninglessness, etc can lead to occupational, spiritual, intellectual and physical and mental sickness. Therefore, environmental. When we talk about each person is responsible for his/her healing and wholeness, we must look health. The question Jesus raised to into all aspects equally. the paralytic person “Do you want to be healed?” is not an exclusive question for The years 2020 and 2021 have been him, but a question for all. If we say yes, doomed as a period of a pandemic. then we have to take responsibility for People were forced to limit their travels our life and act according to the health and activities due to the sudden spread tips available in the world. Even in the of the COVID -19 virus. The virus caused midst of our physical illness, we have the great fear in the minds of people all over responsibility to take at least a minimum the world. More than 1910375 have died initiative from our part for our healing. and 88709394 were affected and over Leading a relaxed life with healthy 63765164 recovered (8-1-2021 updates). relationship with others will definitely It is necessary to note that the rate of give strength to life. Life style diseases recovery has gone up to 95%. This gives can be controlled through food, rest and us hope. However, on the other side, work. the spread of new variant has added more burden on the shoulders of health 2. The role of the faith community workers, political leaders and others The answer given by the man also who are related to the fight against the needs special attention. Sir, I have no pandemic. one to put me in the pool. Pool that is mentioned is a place of healing. It What is the role of church at this time could be a hospital, treatment centre of concern? What is the role of people’s and places of comfort. Church as a faith Rev A. R. Suseel faith in God? Is it possible to encourage community should take responsibility is a Presbyter of South and strengthen the will power of the for poor sick persons of our community. Kerala Diocese of CSI and a people? Are persons responsible for their It is sad to say that currently hospitals former faculty of the Kerala health? The gospel lesson gives us clear and schools have become centres of United Theological Seminary, answer to these questions. In the gospel profit-making companies. They are Trivandrum. He has an MTh portion John 5.1-9, Jesus asks a question exclusively concerned about whether in Counselling from the United to the paralyzed man who was near the the graph of the profit growth goes Theological College, Bangalore healing place called Bethesda. “Do you up every year or not. Church and its under the Senate of Serampore. want to be healed?” The paralyzed man institutions are also not exempted from did not say yes or no. Rather he raises this thinking. It is sad to say that very complaints against others. “Sir I have often we adopt the business tricks of no one to put me into the pool when private companies and making money in the water is stirred up; and while through our healthcare ministry. The cry

www.csi1947.com 9 of the common people in the streets presence, and diabetics and so on. In and the sick in the vulnerable contexts both cases we need strong rooted faith are unheard. in God.

There are a number of people who Let me sum up this message with a die without proper treatment. If we summary of what I have mentioned don’t listen to the cry of the people we above. Faith in God gives extra cannot claim to be members of faith courage for us to face the challenges in community anymore. Church’s role at our life. We need the support of others this time of pandemic is crucial and (faith community) in times of stress the present support we provide not and challenges. Health and wellness sufficient. Church needs to provide are achieved through the personal maximum support for the poor and discipline of each individual as well. needy of the society. Practical Suggestions 3. Faith in God encourages us for a better life • Get extra energy through faith in Jn.5: 8 “Get up, take up your bed, and God. walk.” God gives strength to face the challenges. Loneliness is a serious • We as faith community must psychological state of mind in the support the weak and sick of the post-modern era. Each person is trying society. to get answers for their struggles. Community feeling and faith in God • Receive the strength and support have been diminished because of many from others for a better for a better reasons. Motivation in life on the healthy life. basis of faith needs special attention. Vacuum in the mind at this time of • Personal physical, mental, crisis is a crucial matter of concern. spiritual and social life activities can be regulated by personal The present context of pandemic is discipline (healthy natural food, not under control and the worse is proper rest and physical exercise yet to come according to the WHO help persons for better healthy information. But then, we need hope life). and encouragement from God who is always with us. The man who took • Personal spiritual activities his bed and walked away gives us (prayer, meditation, fellowship a beautiful picture of Faith in God etc) can help us to gain more that encourages us to face challenges strength in life in life. “God never sends you into a situation alone. God goes before you. • Maintaining a good relationship He stands beside you. He walks behind with others will help us to you. Whatever situation you have right overcome the emotional stress and now, be confident God is with you.” anxiety in life. (Anonymous).

Let us affirm our faith in God to face the challenges. Continuous presence of God gives us continuous motivation in our day to day activities. The definition of wellness given by WHO gives us space for both personal and community lives as well. Sometimes we get complete cure from certain diseases and other times we may have to live courageously with certain life style diseases such as high blood

10 February 2021 Article Complete Healing “When Jesus saw him lying there… a man of Jericho (Bartimaeus) in Mark long time…he said to him, “Do you want 10: 51 and Luke 18: 41. So from these to be healed?” (John 5: 6). “Jesus said instances, we understand that one should to him, “Get up, take up your bed and have a desire to be healed, to begin with. walk.” (John 5: 8). Afterwards, Jesus found him…and said to him, “See, you 2. Role of faith in healing are well! Sin no more, that nothing Once, during the early days of my private worse may happen to you.”(Jn.5:14). practice, I had to attend a house call in ESV the neighbourhood, to treat a patient who suffered from difficulty in breathing. n most of the dictionaries, health is Till then, each time she got this attack, Idefined as ‘a condition of well being of she used to get admitted in the hospital. mind and body’. In other words, one is But, when I was called to attend this presumed to be healthy when his mind patient, I gave her an I.V. injection and his body are in a state of well being. prayerfully and assured her that she is One becomes sick when some illness going to be okay and she was relieved affects the body or mind or both. A desire almost instantly. This instilled great faith to heal, faith and obedience are the in her that she will never need to get salient necessities for the healing. hospitalized for this anymore. From then on, whenever she begins to get those 1. Role of positive mind in healing symptoms, she would come to me and Our mind plays a great role in the with mild medicines, her breathlessness healing of physical illness. In my medical would be controlled. So it is also clear practice, I have found that it is difficult to that what she had suffered earlier was help the patients who have a fixed notion not only the sickness but also the fear in their minds that, ‘nothing is going to that inflated it, that had made her weak. help me’. Usually, those patients with But now, when she was convinced that chronic (long-standing) illness develop she could feel better with a help that this sort of mindset since they remain is available in the neighbourhood and sick for a long time. It is the experience that could prevent her from the hassles of almost all doctors that those with of getting admitted in a hospital, she such an attitude respond poorly to the became more positive and mentally treatment. stronger to overcome the illness, which in fact, she did. In John 5: 1- 9 we see a man, lying down invalid for thirty- eight years near Faith is an important factor that Jesus the edge of the pool. He yearned that looks for in the healing ministry, every someone could help him to take the first time he met the sick. In Luke 17: 19, to dip in the pool to be healed when the the healed leper, he said, “your faith has angel stirred its waters. In the beginning, made you well”. In Matthew 9: 22, Mark Dr. V. Sam William, a member he would have been much hopeful that 5: 34 and Luke 8: 48, he testified to the of the Malabar Diocese of the someone would help him. But as years woman who touched his garment hoping Church of South India, has his gone by, no one really helped him and it to be healed, that her faith had made her MBBS from the Calicut Medical could have made him feel dejected and well. In Luke 18: 42 and Mark 10: 52, College. He has been a general depressed. Yet he had settled by the pool Jesus said to Bartimaeus that his faith practitioner of modern medicine in hope to spend the rest of his life as he has healed him. In John 11: 40, Jesus since 1981. Bible teaching is his still desired to be healed. It is at this time reminded Martha that if she believed passion and currently teaching Jesus meets this man with a resigned she could see the glory of God. Here, in for UESI for graduates and attitude and asks him, “Do you want to John 5: 8, Jesus asks the invalid man to youth. He is a member of the be healed?” (John 5: 6). In Matthew 20: take up his bed and walk. Surely it was CEF Kerala, Wayanad Region. 32, he asks the similar question, “What a test of faith. In John 9: 6-7, we find a E-mail: drsamwilliam@gmail. do you want me to do for you?” to the blind man, where Jesus made mud with com Phone: 9495363646; blind men who came to Jesus for healing. the saliva, by spitting on the ground and 9388824028. He asks the same question to the blind anointing the eyes of the blind man with

www.csi1947.com 11 it, asking him to wash that in the pool time another illness may come or the followed the way of the world rather Siloam, which was some distance away same illness can reappear. Physical than God, remaining dead spiritually. from there, in order to test his faith. healing hence is incomplete and can The sacrifice of the animal was a fore- ensure eternity for no one. shadow of Jesus who is to be sacrificed 3. Role of obedience in healing in order to restore the spirit that was Just having a desire to be healed and 4. Complete healing corrupted due to the sin. John 3: 18 faith in the physician or the treatment The Bible says that in the beginning, affirms that those who do not believe process is not enough for the healing human beings were created with body, in Jesus are condemned already and to occur. One must be willing to do his/ soul and the spirit. In Genesis 2: 7, the salvation attained by hearing the her part. One must obey the physician we read, ‘And the Lord God formed Word of God and believing in Jesus is regarding the do’s and don’ts and then man of the dust of the ground, and described as passing from death to life take medicine as per the instruction breathed into his nostrils the breath of (John 5: 24). Paul in Ephesians 2: 1-3 in order to be healed. Obedience is life; and the man became a living soul’ and Peter in 1 Peter 2: 9,10 expresses the result of ‘faith in action’ and faith (KJV). So the physical body made out the same sentiments. without action is dead (James 2: 20, of the dust of the ground was inactive 26). So obedience is the evidence until God’s breath came into him. We Salvation through Jesus was promised of true faith. presume that God’s breath contained by God almost immediately after man’s the soul and spirit. The soul gives sin in Genesis 3: 15, because of God’s In chapter 9 of John’s Gospel, the blind life to the body and the spirit gives love for man, though he never deserved man proved his faith by obedience. He life to the soul. The soul is the inner this grace. It is God’s grace that sent obeyed by going to the pool though man we talk about as ‘life’. The mind the promised Saviour to the world. it was difficult for him but came back is the seat of this inner man. That Galatians 4: 4-7 describe how when the healed. Similarly in John 5: 9, the is why health is defined as the well fullness of time had come, God sent man trusted the word of Jesus, even being of body and mind. But without his Son Jesus Christ to the earth, born though he never knew who he was. spirit, the soul is dead as far as God of a woman to redeem the humankind Ignoring his physical weakness, with is concerned, because the spirit is from the bondage of the law, where the faith, he put an effort to take up his that part of human beings help their wages of sin is death and how God, the bed and to walk, trusting the words of soul to communicate with God. God’s Holy Spirit was sent into the hearts of Jesus. We find he was healed at once spirit can communicate only with our believers to sanctify them and make and was able to take up his bed and spirit (Romans 8: 16) and God’s will them his heirs. John 1: 4 says, ‘In walk. In the Old Testament, we see is made known through our spirit to him was life, and the life was the light Naaman, though reluctant to obey the the mind which is the seat of the soul. of men’. Jesus, though was equal to words of Elisha, gathered enough faith So we need a renewal of mind to know God (John 1: 1), emptied himself and to be immersed himself in the river what the will of God is, and we are came in the likeness of men, humbled of Jordan ten times, to be healed of transformed from the state of being himself and took the form of a servant, leprosy for which there was no cure in conformed to the world by submitting obedient unto death on the Cross those times (2 Kings 5: 14). That is why our body as a living sacrifice to God to (Philippians 2: 6-8) in order to make obedience is better than sacrifice. execute His will (Romans 12: 1,2). a way for salvation to the humankind. John the Baptist declared that Jesus is Thus willingness, faith and obedience Spirit is that part of man that the Lamb of God who takes away the form the three basic requirements of died, the day when Adam and Eve sins of the world (John 1: 29). Peter healing. Even for getting deliverance sinned as warned by God. Spiritual also, testifies the same in 1 Peter 1: from addictions to alcohol, drugs, etc., death is nothing but the inability to 18,19 (NLT). So, the primary aim of the these three are the basic requirement. communicate with God. We find that coming of Jesus is to die for our sins As far as the mental illness (psychiatric Adam and Eve were afraid to face God so as to provide the spiritual life to all problems) is concerned, more and hid themselves from the presence those who believe in Him (John 1: 11; counselling may be required along with of God when they sinned (Gen.3: 3:16-18). That is why Jesus declared, drugs. But the basic formula remains 7-10). The sin actually exposed their “I am the way, the truth and the life” the same. For the maintenance of nakedness, removing the holy covering (John 14: 6). physical and mental well being (health) of God’s glory that was over them. The also one needs willingness, faith and Lord had to sacrifice an animal to hide Though Jesus went around preaching obedience. their nakedness temporarily (Genesis several appealing teachings, He never 3: 21) before driving them out of Eden missed an opportunity to tell about the However, the fact remains that the to the ground from where the dust eternal life, kingdom of heaven and physical and mental healing cannot was taken to create his body (Genesis how He is the way to that kingdom. provide complete healing for anyone, 3: 23), literally throwing them out In fact His first preaching was because this is only temporary. At any into the earth. Thus, ever since man about the repentance, pointing that (Cont. Page no. 17) 12 February 2021 www.csi1947.com www.csi1947.com 1313 www.csi1947.com 1414 February 2021 www.csi1947.com www.csi1947.com 1515 www.csi1947.com 1616 February 2021 5. Role of Church in the healing ministry: Since healing is complete only with spiritual healing that comes from Jesus, the Churches should focus on leading people to this spiritual experience. In the time of Apostles, God added to the Church those who were being saved (Acts 2: 47). But, now the scenario is different. We have a mixed congregation of saved and unsaved people. So, spiritual healing is the need of the hour. Act 16: 31, Romans 10: 9 and several other passages make it clear that believing in Jesus is the way to be saved.

It is this area the present day Church should also concentrate. It should take the kingdom of heaven is at hand met by Jesus to stress the importance all efforts to see that every member (Matthew 4: 17). He talks to the of believing in the Son of God. When of the Church is saved by the blood Samaritan woman about the living Jesus reveals that He himself is the of Jesus and grow spiritually. Rather water (John 4: 10,14), to Nicodemus, Son of God, he immediately believed in than spending time celebrations, a ruler of the Jews (John 3: 1) and a Him, whereby his spiritual blindness entertainment, blaming each other and teacher of Israel (John 3: 10) about was also removed (Jn.9:35-39). Then in Church politics, we must redeem the need of being born again (John only he receives complete healing. the time for the complete healing 3: 3) by believing in Jesus Christ Here, in John 5: 14 also, Jesus finds the of the members. One day retreats, (John 3: 14,15). He teaches about the man who was healed from his physical conventions, youth meetings, Sunday importance of hearing the word of infirmity again and talks about the School meetings, and Women’s God and obeying it, which is the only need of sinning no more in order to Fellowship programmes, debates, requirement that would make one maintain complete healing. Jesus says discussion etc., could be conducted eligible to enter the kingdom of God, to the man, “See, you are well! Sin no with an aim of sharing about Jesus rather than doing so many wonderful more, that nothing worse may happen to the members. The Church prayer works (Matthew 7: 21-24). The gospel to you”. By this, He indicated that cell consisting of believers should according to Mathew records several the sin is the root cause of sickness pray with burden for the salvation of parables told by Jesus to describe the and continuing in sin can worsen him the members. Church leaders should kingdom of God (Matthew 13:24-33, more. In fact many of our diseases, teach the Word of God effectively 44-52, 18:23-35, 20:1-16, 22:2-14). such as various forms of cancer, lung for edification in Sunday sermons, Even to Pilate, who tried Him before diseases, liver diseases, psychiatric Seminars and other meetings. The the crucifixion, He clarifies about His problems, venereal diseases, etc., are congregation should be shaken and kingdom (John 18: 36,37). the result of sinful indulgence in habits challenged by the presence of God in like gluttony, smoking, alcohol, drugs, every event. Even while providing physical healing adultery, etc. Though such diseases to the needy He never missed an are treated and healed, it is important The first Church took the Gospel opportunity to tell about the need for not to continue those habits in order to to the world. But, today’s Churches forgiveness of sins and the importance prevent the worse. face the influx of the ‘world’ and it’s of not continuing in sin. The woman ways into the Church, corrupting the caught in adultery was not only saved Doctors can provide physical and congregation. If we waste our time from being stoned by the Pharisees but mental healing. Healing is also seemed without communicating the Gospel was also forgiven of her sins by Jesus to happen through many miraculous effectively to the congregation given and was commanded to sin no more means, though rare. But only Jesus by God and fail to help them grow (John 8: 3-11). can provide complete healing since He in Christ, we are truly answerable to is the only one who died for our sins Him. But do we have the fear of the The blind man in John 9, who was providing the way for spiritual healing. Lord? Do we have the burden for the expelled from the synagogue for John 8: 36 says, ‘…if the Son sets you lost souls? Do we have a testifying that the man who healed free, you will be free indeed’. So look to outlook? Think! him must have come from God, was Jesus for complete healing.

www.csi1947.com 17 News CSI Synod Dept. of Mission and Evangelism “Mission is our ‘Sannaddha Suvishesha Sangha Njayar’ Passion”: Seminarians in East Kerala Diocese he Department of Mission and epartment of Mission and Secretary, has described the goal and TEvangelism along with - DEvangelism, CSI Synod, objectives of Diocesan Sannaddha Kottarakkara Diocese organized a participated in the observance of Suvishesha Sangham (SSS). He three-days special Mission Retreat at ‘Sannaddha Suvishesha Sangha stated that the main objectives of the St. Thomas CSI Church Thenmala Njayar’ (Voluntary Gospel Suvishesha Sangham as empowering in Kollam-Kottarakkara Diocese on ’ Team Sunday) on the local congregation towards 29th to 31st December 2020. 17th January 2021 at Holy Immanuel Evangelism, promote volunteers Rt. Rev. Dr Oommen George, Bishop CSI Church Koovapally in the East from the Churches to participate in Kollam-Kottarakkara Diocese, Kerala Diocese of the Church of in the Gospel works without any inaugurated the programme. South India (CSI). It was the special monetary payments, cherish the Sunday observance in order to capacity of self-resistance against “Promoting Revival Mission inspire and encourage people to the social evils, proclaim the Gospel throughout the Diocese is our witness the Gospel of Christ through especially in the unreached areas, priority,” said Bishop Oommen the words and deeds. promote Missionaries, participate George during his inaugural speech. Bishop further exemplified the life and work of the Prophet Elijah based on James 5: 17. We must cherish credibility, reliability, faithfulness, prayerfulness, and all other spiritual disciplines in day to day life. As the channel of the Gospel, we must witness the Gospel through our life, Bishop Added.

“Prayer is the starting point to “We have a great mission today in the house visits, lead the Bible become Missional Congregation,” to encourage congregations to studies, prayer meetings, fellowship said Rev. Christopher Vijayan, stand close to the ways of God”, meetings, and visit the sick. Besides, General Secretary for National highlighted by Rt. Rev. V. S. Francis, there will be resource mobilization Missionary Society of India (NMSI), Bishop in East Kerala Diocese, in his for the church building construction while he was leading a session. He special message which is circulated and parsonages in the marginalized further added that while ministry to the Churches in the Diocese areas of the Diocese. He has happens within the Church, mission in connection to the ‘Sannaddha further pointed out the life and mainly happens outside of the Suvishesha Sangha Njayar’ contributions of Rev. K. S. Daniel Church. Mission journey is an observance. Bishop further stated and Manual Upadesi who are the integrated one which is an experience that this ‘Suvishesha Sangha Njayar‘ pioneer leaders of this gospel team. of the journey together towards the will help us to stand along with God. This movement was formed during kingdom of God. The call of Jesus the Mechal Central Convention in as “take up the cross and follow me” A special sermon outline for this January 1953, he added. (Luke 9: 23) is always challenging the Sunday was prepared by Rev. T. J. missional engagements, he added. Bejoy, East Kerala Diocese, based on Rev. K. D. Sam, Vicar in CSI Holy the theme “Share the Gospel through Immanuel Church, led the worship Prof. Dr Asok Alex Philip from our life in Christian ways”. In this in the Suvishesha Sanga Sunday. Madhya Kerala Diocese pointed sermon outline, he has stressed the Rev. Maxcin John shared the word out the importance of Mission need to lead our life in the name of God. It was the occasion of in the present context during his of God (Micah 4: 5-6), begin the rejuvenation and boost the passion session. He told us that we must propagation of Gospel within the for Mission and Evangelism. strive together for an inclusive family (Luke 8: 26-39), and give all community. This has to promoted glory to God. Rev. Maxcin John, through innovative ideas, insightful Director, Mission and Evangelism, interaction, inevitable intervention, In a special booklet for this special CSI Synod. and integrated activities based on the Sunday, Rev. A. E. Eappen, General Gospel.

18 February 2021 Dept. of Mission and Evangelism CSI Synod News

Rev. Maxcin John, Synod Mission and Evangelism Director, explained about the mission as Transformation based on CSI Mission statement. He urged the participants to be a part of Gospel movement in day to day life.

The mission retreat was arranged for the seminarians in Kollam- Kottarakkara Diocese. The Revival Mission Movement of the Diocese has organized the retreat along with Thenmala CSI Church. Bro. Sanal Raj, Bro. Ebenezer and Bro. Arun Mosses along with the Thenmala seminarians of the Diocese. The dedication for the mission of God. Church Committee have made meeting was concluded with the Ultimately, the retreat upheld the necessary local arrangements. The prayer by Rev. Thomas Cheriyan, the notion that mission is our Passion. programme was based on MAITRI Mission Secretary of the Diocese. (Mission Accompaniment for Rev. Maxcin John, Inclusive Transformation through The programme was the venue for Director, Mission and Evangelism, Radical Intervention). Twenty mutual fellowship, rejuvenation, CSI Synod. participants were there including learning and listening as well as Kannampadi -Thekkumthottam Mission Journey he Department of Mission there was a special mission visit to Accompany Tand Evangelism, CSI Synod Pambanar and the Diocesan Bishop the Grassroots: has participated in the mission Office, Diocesan Mission Department journey to the mission fields of office and Mechal Parsonage on 7th Kappakanam Visit Kannampady, and Thekkumthottam January 2021. Rev. Jacob Antony long with CSI East Kerala in East Kerala Diocese on the 6th (General Secretary, Christian ADiocesan Mission Department January 2021. It was an eye-opening Education Department), Rev. Liju and National Missionary Society of journey which threw light into Abraham (Bishop Chaplain and India, the Department of Mission the need of the paradigm shift of General Secretary Youth Movement), and Evangelism, CSI Synod has missional engagements as “centre Rev. K. A. Jacob (Adukkam), along participated in the missional visit to the periphery”. It was literally an with Diocesan staffs was present to Kappakanam in East Kerala experience of seeing the unexplored in the short gathering). There was Diocese on 28th December 2020. and hidden potentials of the people a short mission consultation with It was the occasion to accompany who are living in the interior parts Rt. Rev. V. S. Francis, Bishop in the grassroots and promote the of the society. Moreover, it was East Kerala Diocese regarding mission from the margin. visible to experience the ardent faith the upcoming mission programs. and passion towards the Gospel. Moreover, the Synod Mission In consultation with Rt. Rev. V. Furthermore, it shows the need for Department has participated in the S. Francis, Bishop in CSI East enhancement of their inborn talents Bible Convention of Ellumpuram CSI Kerala Diocese, the mission visit and acquired capabilities through Church on 8th January 2021. was organized to be with the most constant accompaniments. It will vulnerable in their dreams and enormously help the communities The mission journey in East Kerala needs. Kappakanam is a remote to build their life sustainably and Diocese was the opportunity village in Idukki District where the fruitfully. for mutual empowerment and people are mainly daily labourers, encouragement in regards to the as well as agriculturists. Even In the Mission Journey, Rev. P. C. ongoing and upcoming missional though they are an economically Mathewkutty, Diocesan Treasurer, engagements in the Diocese. backward community, they are Rev. A. E. Eappen, Diocesan Mission highly potential and aspiring for Director, Mr Jaymon, Diocesan, Rev. Maxcin John, sustainable developments. As they Office Staff, and Rev. Maxcin John, Director,Mission and Evangelism, are still cherishing to build up their Synod Mission Director, have CSI Synod. life, a constant accompaniment participated. In addition to it,

www.csi1947.com 19 News CSI Synod Dept. of Mission and Evangelism, CSI SEVA

with them is highly needed to In the missional visit, Rev. Pongal Celebration support and encourage their vital Christopher Vijayan, General ventures and engagements. Secretary for NMSI, Rev. A. E. at the CSI Synod Eappen, Mission Director in East Secretariat It is highly appreciable that the Kerala Diocese and Rev. Maxcin National Missionary Society of India John, Synod Mission Director have he Pongal celebration at the CSI (NMSI) has promised to accompany participated. There was a missional TSynod Secretariat was held on the the Kappakanam CSI Church consultation with Bishop Rt. Rev. 15th of January 2021. The celebration was through the Diocese in their tireless V. S. Francis at Bishop’s House, graced by The Most Rev. A. Dharmaraj efforts to build a new Worship Melukavumattom. Rasalam, Moderator, CSI, The Rt. Rev. centre. It will be implemented in Dr K. Reuban Mark, Deputy Moderator, an imminent future as per the fund Rev. Maxcin John, CSI and Adv. C. Fernandas Rathina Raja, availability and sponsorship. Director, Mission and Evangelism, General Secretary, CSI, all the directors CSI Synod. and staff of CSI Synod.

The Moderator in his greetings mentioned how it was celebrated in all Madurai American College Continues to Uphold places of South India and the cultural the Legacy of Mission relationship between the Tamils and the neighbouring states have. The Deputy he Department of Mission and constitutional provisions of Moderator spoke about the biblical TEvangelism along with the India. This college will be moving connections when bringing home of Department of Pastoral Concerns ahead into the new horizons of the harvest is a time to praise God and visited Madurai American College transformation in the days to come. equated Pongal festival to that of praising on the 19th January 2021. It was Creator God. an unforgettable experience for the This visit was also a part of an visitors to witness the perennial upcoming Capacity Building The General Secretary affirmed that contributions of Madurai American Programme which is scheduled on Pongal is the Dravidian festival celebrated College towards the integrity and 2-3 February 2021. This program is in all places where Dravidian culture has development of the nation. The an initiative of Adv. C. Fernandas spread. He also mentioned about the college is in a tireless effort to build Rathina Raja, General Secretary, protests by farmers, how the corporates and mould the younger generation CSI Synod for empowering are trying to steal the farming sector in various capacities towards the pastors, Missionaries and Youth and the need for the Church to stand in well -being of the entire nation in a of CSI to become “ Informed and solidarity with the protesting farmers. holistic and inclusive way. Responsible Citizens”. The worship was led by Rev. Easter and Madurai American College was In this visit, Rev. Dr Prinstone Rev. Samuel Selvakumar of the Diocese founded by the Missionaries for Ben (Director, Department of of Madras, accompanied by the SEVA the sustainable transformation and Pastoral Concerns, Synod), Rev. Staff. The SEVA Director in his message development of society. The same John Kamaraj (Chaplain, American dwelt on three points, namely (i) the legacy and passion are still upheld College), Dr Arul (Warden and precariousness of the lives of the farmers by the college under the leadership Department of Religion and and their dependence upon God, (ii) of Rt. Rev. Dr M. Joseph, Bishop in Philosophy), Rev. Pon Prabhakar the inseparable connection between Madurai -Ramnad Diocese and Dr (HMS Director, Madurai -Ramnad land, farmer, livestock, and Almighty Devamany Christober, the Principal Diocese), Rev. Vinolin Caleb Creator, and (iii) the significance of for the college along with the (Director, Junior Church and the Tiruvalluvar day which calls for the cooperation of Madurai -Ramnad Youth, Madurai -Ramnadu common humanity to stand before God Diocese and all other faculties, staff Diocese), and Rev. Maxcin John without any discrimination. The program and students of the college. This have attended. There was also a concluded with a sharing of the sweet institution is a prestigious one for short programme consultation Pongal which was cooked by the families the Church of South India because with the Principal Dr Devamany of the staff members. of its credibility, brilliance, long- Christober. lasting contributions, academic Reported by: Excellency, and dedication for Rev. Maxcin John, Mr Praveen Daniel, the social upliftment based Director, Mission and Evangelism, CSI- SEVA. on the Gospel values and the CSI Synod.

20 February 2021 CSI SEVA, Dept. of Youth CSI Synod News

CSI Synod Staff Capacity Building Workshop : The project aims at a skill enhancement training, enabling Project Proposal Writing the rural youth to build their self- project proposal writing writing. The introduction to esteem and develop their personality A workshop was organized for the community development was also with life skills such as team work, staff of CSI Synod Secretariat on the rendered with a quote from the United goal setting, SWOT analysis, time 11th of January 2021. Department Nations, ‘The UN has defined the management, communication skills, directors, managers, program/ term community development as ‘a career mapping and leadership skill accounts/ communication executives process by which the efforts of the training. These courses are offered were part of this workshop. Mr. people themselves are united with in management colleges for an Simpson Cornelius, who has a wide those of the governmental authorities expensive fee but CSI Synod Youth range of experience in the field to improve the economic, social and Department envisioned to bring the conducted the workshop. cultural conditions of communities, Church youth from rural areas who to integrate these communities into cannot afford to attend this training In the introductory session of the the life of the nation and to enable outside in management colleges. workshop, the resource person gave a them to contribute fully to national This in turn is hoped to make them brief outline of a Project and Project progress’. competent and confident to face the key stakeholders. He highlighted the different challenges the job market fact that, ‘A project is defined as a In the final session he spoke about offers. specific, finite activity that produces the components that could exist in an observable and measurable result a comprehensive project proposal, The sequence of activities envisaged under certain preset requirements.’ (i) Abstract or Executive Summary, under this training is to mobilize With regard to the stakeholders, he (ii) Title, (iii) Cover Page, (iv) youth into viable groups, improve mentioned it comprises from the Introduction or Statement of Need, their skills, arrange for support community to the implementing (v) Goal, (vi) Objectives/Outcomes, services, provides awareness and authority. (vii) Program Description/ education on the key focus areas. Procedures, (viii) Evaluation, Besides, there is an increasing He moved on to talk about the (ix) Personnel, (x) Budget, (xi) emphasis on making the young two types of Project, (i) Solicited Appendices, and (xii) Dissemination. women and men self-reliant and self- – Requested, & (ii) Unsolicited The standard reporting and evaluating employed, so that they can establish – Spontaneous. The need for mechanism were also emphasized by income generating units for their focusing more on solicited projects the speaker. To conclude with there livelihood. Appropriate soft skills was accentuated. The key aspect were Q&A session were the CSI Synod play an important role in a successful of solicited project is to have a staff actively participated with their career. Keeping this in mind the comprehensive style of proposal inputs and suggestions. training was facilitated by the experts from the Skill Factory, Bangalore. Mr. Swaroop from Skill Factory Skill Enhancement Training for Rural Youth touched on important areas like team at CSI work, goal setting, self-confidence, public speaking skills, etiquette, time he CSI Synod Youth Department management and career mapping, Torganized a 3-day Skill SWOT analysis, communication skills Enhancement Training for Rural and leadership skills. Youth in the CSI Diocese of Nandyal from 15th to 17th January 2021 at CSI Synod Youth Department Viswasa Alayam, Bishop’s Bangalow extend our gratitude to the Bishop Compound, Nandyal. the Rt. Rev. Dr. E. Pushpalalitha, Officers of the Diocese of Nandyal The Rt. Rev. Dr. E. Pushpalalitha, for their commitment and faith. and the Director of the Youth Bishop in the Diocese of Nandyal, Diocesan Vice-President, Secretary, Department, Diocese of Nandyal inaugurated the Skill Enhancement Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Rev. Karu. J. T. Dixon and his team Training for Rural Youth on 15th Associate Treasurer, Youth Director for their meticulous planning and January, 2021 and motivated the and other presbyters of the Diocese implementation of the workshop. youngsters by elucidating chapter 1 were present in the programme. and 2 of the Book of Daniel, where 35 Young people from various Rev. Ch. John Nischal Kumar, God gave certain special skills to pastorates of the Diocese of Nandyal Director, Department of Youth, Daniel and his friends as a reward got benefited through this training. CSI Synod.

www.csi1947.com 21 News CSI Synod Dept. of Ecology, Christian Education, Board of Eduaction Ministry

A School Teacher, Wins Kerala State Award Webinar on the theme for Agriculture Ecological Concerns “Impact of NEP in the lives and livelihood s. Aswathy Alex, a school teacher of Educational Mfrom Kattanam CMS High School under the auspices of the Madhya Institutions.” Kerala Diocese of the Church of South India (CSI), bagged third place hurch of South India, Board for in the Kerala State for institutional CEducation Ministry along with cultivation. The school in collaboration Department of Communication with the State Agricultural Department organizes a Karnataka Regional and the SPC set up a farm inside the Webinar on the theme ‘Impact of school compound to promote organic the Ecological Concerns Department NEP in the lives and livelihood of farming. The years that followed of the CSI Synod. She attended the Educational Institutions’ on 21st saw this in-house farm meeting the training programme of the CSI Synod January 2021. The medium of needs of the school. While the organic held at Chennai on 24th and 25th communication will be kannada vegetable garden has brought several February 2020. language. laurels to the school, its main objective is to create awareness on farming Adv. C. Fernandas Rathina Raja, the among the students. General Secretary of the CSI Synod congratulated her on this achievement Ms Aswathy Alex is a member of the by making a phone call to her and Green School Programme initiated by conveyed the greetings from Most Rev. Dharmaraj Rasalam; the Moderator of the CSI, Rt. Rev. Dr Reuben Mark; the Deputy Moderator and Prof. Dr Vimal Sukumar; the Hon. Treasurer.

Prof. Dr Mathew Koshy Punnackad Director, Dept. of Ecological Concerns, CSI Synod

Peter Cater Scripture Knowledge Examination 2021 was held in Different Centres Across South India he Peter Cater Scripture our children aged 14 to 16 years. This on the 23rd and 24th of January. TKnowledge Examination is one examination persuades the students Appreciations to those who have of the important activities of the to know the value of the Word of involved and participated in this Christian Education Department God for our children in the Churches examination. of the Church of South India (CSI) and also children from other faiths for several decades. It is a self- who are studying in our institutions. Rev. Christopher Dharmaraj, study programme for a systematic Fourteen dioceses actively participated Director, Department of Christian growth of scriptural knowledge to in the exam this year, which was held Education, CSI Synod.

22 February 2021 Dept. of Communication CSI Synod News Rt. Rev. Dr Sabu Koshy Rev. J. Rajan has been appointed Cherian; Bishop in as the Associate Director of the Department Madhya Kerala, Expresses of Ecological Concerns, CSI Synod Solidarity with the Farmers’ Protest in Delhi Madhya Kerala, 22 Jan 2021.

he Madhya Kerala Diocese of Tthe Church of South India (CSI) expressed solidarity for the iconic farmers’ agitation. Speaking at the solidarity meeting held at , the Rt. Rev. Dr Sabu K Cherian, Bishop in Madhya Kerala, said, “India cannot exist without farmers. For India to survive, farmers should survive. Their agitation is not just for their survival, but for India to survive.” He assured the CSI Madhya Kerala Diocese’s ev. J. Rajan, from the was bestowed upon him. He was solidarity for the agitation and RMadurai- Ramnad Diocese of the council chairman, the convener requested the support of the public for the Church of South India (CSI) of Ministerial concerns of the the ongoing farmers’ protest. has been appointed as the first Diocese, member of the Ministerial Honorary Associate Director of the selection Board and the Recording ~CSI Synod Communications Department of Ecological Concerns Secretary of Diocesan Executive of the CSI Synod. Hailing from a Committee. family with evangelical thirst, and a Rt. Rev. Sharma Botany graduate from the reputed Rev. Rajan is married to Mrs Nithyanandham; Bishop American College in Madurai, P. Hepsi Beula, who has a dual Rev. Rajan aspires to lead the Masters Degree in science and in CSI Vellore, Joins the department along with the language. She has a relentless March in Support of the Hon. Director with a missionary passion for teaching and works as zeal towards environmental the Headmistress of a High School. Farmers’ Struggle concerns. She serves as the Superintendent Vellore, 26 Jan 2021. of Women’s fellowship, Madurai- Rev. Rajan acquired the Bachelor Ramnad Diocese. The couples are t. Rev. Sharma Nithyanandham of Divinity and later MTh, from the blessed with two sons; Hamlin Rjoined the march in his diocese TamilNadu Theological Seminary, Renfred, 15 years and Hadwin in support of the Farmers in Delhi Arasaradi, Madurai. The Biblical Renold, 10 years. who is in a struggle demanding knowledge and the burden for the the repealing of the anti- farmers’ society have helped Rev. Rajan Rev. Rajan motivates the Christian law introduced by the central in different designations in the youth community through his government. On Republic Day, the diocese for the past eighteen years. motivational evangelical speeches. Diocese celebrates the formation Rev. Rajan is currently serving He envisions regenerating the lost day of the Diocese. Soon after the as an ordained Presbyter in the wealth of nature. The Officers of celebration of the formation day, Madurai Ramnad Diocese. the CSI Synod expressed their trust the bishop along with the presbyters in him and shared their hope that and church members joined hands Along with his evangelical call, Rev. Rajan will associate with the with those who led the protest march his interest in saving nature was Director and help him to spread against the infamous laws by the rightly recognized by the Diocesan the ecological vision of the church government. Bishop spoke using leadership. Rev. Rajan was serving internationally. strong words against the new laws as the Director of Ecological which are against the interests of the concerns of the Madurai Ramnad The CSI Synod Secretariat family farmers in the country. Diocese when this responsibility welcomes him to the fold! ~CSI Synod Communications

www.csi1947.com 23 News Diocesan

Rt. Rev. Sharma Nithyanandam Rev. Dr Sabu K. Cherian has been Consecrated (Bishop, Vellore Diocese), Rt. Rev. as the Thirteenth Bishop in the Madhya Kerala A. C. Soloman (Bishop, Medak Diocese), Rt. Rev. Royce Manoj Victor Diocese of the CSI (Bishop, Malabar Diocese), Rt. Rev. Madhya Kerala, 18 Jan 2021. B. N. Fenn (Bishop, Cochin Diocese), Rt. Rev. Timothi Revinder (Bishop, the thanksgiving speech, Rt. Rev. in the diocese for civil services and Coimbatore Diocese), Rt. Rev. Dr A. InDr Sabu K. Cherian specifically other competitive exams and thus R. Chelliah (Kanyakumari Diocese), pointed out that he will continue to make them part of the nation-building. Rt. Rev. (Bishop, serve the diocese with his missionary Krishna Godavari Diocese), Rt. Rev. zeal. He committed himself to The consecration service was led by Dr D. Chandrasekaran (Bishop, address the issues faced by the Dalit Most Rev. Dharmaraj Rasalam; the Trichy-Tanjore Diocese), Rt. Rev. V. Christians in the diocese, specifically Moderator of the Church of South S. Francis (Bishop, East Kerala), and on reservation policies affecting India. Rt. Rev. Dr Reuben Mark; the Metropolitan; them, and work for their betterment Deputy Moderator, Adv. C. Fernandas representing the Mar Thoma Church, in various walks of life. He reiterated Rathina Raja; the General Secretary, a sister church of the CSI. Bishops the need of giving more emphasis on Rt. Rev. Dr Oommen George emeritus Rt. Rev. Thomas K. Oommen the education ministry of the diocese, (Moderator’s Commissary of Madhya (former Moderator, CSI), Rt. Rev. which has started the first-ever girls’ Kerala Diocese and Bishop in Kollam Thomas Samuel and Rt. Rev. K. school in South India. he envisions Kottarakkara Diocese), Rt. Rev. Dr M. G. Daniel also participated the programmes to prepare the youngsters Joseph, (Bishop in Madurai Diocese), consecration service.

Rt. Rev. B. N. Fenn gave the ‘Mangalya’ Helps More than a Hundred consecration sermon. Prof. Dr Vimal Sukumar, the Hon. Treasurer Women in their Mangalyam! of the Church of South India and South Kerala, 26 Jan 2021. the leaders of the administrative committee also gave the leadership angalya’ is a marriage aid Deputy Moderator of the CSI, Rt. for the consecration service. People ‘Mproject of the Women’s Rev. Timothy Ravinder; Bishop from various walks of life, presbyters, Fellowship of South Kerala Diocese in Coimbatore, Rt. Rev. Oommen sisters, missionaries, heads of of the Church of South India (CSI). George; Bishop in CSI Kollam- institutions, representatives from During the time span of 2016 Kottarakkara, and Rt. Rev. Dr Sabu theological colleges, members of the - 2020, there were 63 families K. Cherian; Bishop in Madhya neighbouring dioceses, and leaders tied the knot with the help of this Kerala. Adv. C. Fernandas Rathina and members of other denominations project. This year, on the Indian Raja; the General Secretary of witnessed the consecration service. Republic Day, 18 more couples the CSI Synod and Prof. Dr Vimal The service was held complying to the joined in wedlock under this Sukumar; the Hon. Treasurer COVID 19 protocols. scheme. The whole expenditure of the CSI Synod spoke in the of the ceremony, including the public meeting after the wedding During the installation, Adv. C. expense of the ornaments, wedding ceremony representing the Synod. Fernandas Rathina Raja, the General dress, feast and fixed deposit for Secretary of the CSI, read the the newly wedded were borne by Mr Kadakampally Surendran, instrument of election and selection. the Women’s Fellowship. the State Minister for Co- The congregation gave its assent. The Operation and Tourism, and Mr Moderator then led the consecration Ms Sherly Dharmaraj Rasalam, K. S. Sabarinadhan MLA also and installation of the Bishop-elect. the President of the Women’s gave felicitation speeches in the There was a solemn examination fellowship of the South Kerala meeting. of the Bishop-elect, followed by the Diocese of the CSI, who is the congregational hymn inviting the brain behind this project, led the Mangalya, a five-year-old projects presence of the Holy Spirit. The organising of the function today. lighted up the lives of many poor Moderator and the officiating Bishops The wedding ceremony was led by women, thus continues to serve laid their hands on the head of the Most Rev. Dharmaraj Rasalam; many more in the years to come. Bishop-elect and prayed that God the Moderator of the CSI, assisted ordains and consecrates him Bishop by Rt. Rev. Dr Reuben Mark; the ~CSI Synod Communications in God’s Church. The Moderator then presented the newly consecrated

24 February 2021 Diocesan News

Bishop with the Bible and the Pastoral the diocese, specifically on reservation two sons; Mr Sibu Cherian Koshy who Staff, the symbol of the good shepherd, policies affecting them, and work for is married to Ms Roopa Esther Philip while the Bishop was adorned with the their betterment in various walks of and settled in Ireland and Dr Sam Saffron Stole. The Deputy Moderator life. He reiterated the need of giving John Koshy who is currently pursuing placed the Episcopal Ring on his more emphasis on the education his post-graduation in Chennai. finger, a token of pledge and fidelity. ministry of the diocese, which has The Bishops then welcomed the new started the first-ever girls’ school in May God bless him to lead this great Bishop to the council of the Bishops South India. he envisions programmes diocese of the Church of South India by giving the right hand of fellowship. to prepare the youngsters in the with zeal and enthusiasm! The Moderator then declared Rt. Rev. diocese for civil services and other Dr Sabu K. Cherian as Bishop in the competitive exams and thus make ~ CSI Synod Communications Church of God, in the name of the them part of the nation-building. Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The congregation responded with a Rt. Rev. Dr Sabu K. Cherian has been loud ‘Amen’ and sang the doxology. elevated to this high office after a long New mission field and effective ministry in the diocese Then the newly consecrated Bishop in various capacities. He was elected Started at Mannoor was led to his Episcopal chair. The lay as the Treasurer of the Diocese of Kollam- Kottarakkara, leaders of the Diocese, representatives Madhya Kerala in 2014 for three years. 10-01-2021. of the laity and representatives of the Bishop was ordained as a deacon of Deacons and Presbyters and women the CSI in 1988 and a presbyter in SI Kollam - Kottarakkara workers promised all due obedience to 1989, is 59 years old and now is chosen Cdiocese has started a new the new Bishop. to lead the Madhya Kerala Diocese as Mission Field at Mannoor, the Bishop in the coming eight years. Kadackal, Kollam (Dist). Bishop In the thanksgiving speech, Rt. Rev. Dr He started his ministry as a missionary Rt. Rev. Dr Oommen George Sabu K. Cherian specifically pointed in the Andhra Mission (currently inaugurated mission on 10th out that he will continue to serve the Telangana Mission) where his wife January 2021. Br. Sanal Raj and diocese with his missionary zeal. He Dr Mrs Jessy Sara Koshy joined him other internal mission leaders committed himself to address the in the mission work as a missionary were participated. issues faced by the Dalit Christians in doctor. Rev. Dr Sabu is blessed with

CSI Malabar Diocese Opens Bookstall in the Heart of the City of Calicut Malabar, 22 Jan 2021.

alabar Diocese of the Church Mof South India (CSI), one among the youngest of the Church, opened the Diocesan Bookstall at Calicut (Kozhikode) in a prime place in the city.

The Bookstall was inaugurated on the 22nd January 2021 by Rt. Rev. Dr Royce Manoj Victor, the Bishop in the Diocese in the presence of Mr Desmond babu; Diocesan Treasurer, Rev. N. K. Sunny; Liturgy of even other Christian useful for students, also will be Clergy Secretary, Mr Kenneth denominations, vestments of priests, available here. Lazar; Lay Secretary, and Rev. Joe wine and wafer, and materials for Varghese Malayil; Director, Dept. the use in churches are available Reported By: of Communications. here. Moreover, this bookstall is set Rev. Joe Varghese Malayil, to function as a students centre too. Director, Bibles in different languages and Services like DTP, Photostat, Spiral Dept. of Communications, versions, other spiritual books, Binding, and Lamination, which are CSI Malabar Diocese.

www.csi1947.com 25 News Diocesan

St. John’s CSI English Church in Kannur Turns of Britishers. This includes the one in memory of the three Army officers who into a Conserved Monument died in the Coorg war in 1834 and one Malabar, 24 Jan 2021. in memory of Murdoch Brown, who cultivated the Cinnamon plantations t. John’s English Church in Kannur Kerala and part of South Karnataka) in Anjarakkandy. Apart from the Sunder the Malabar Diocese of the became under the British East main hall, there are separate portions Church of South India (CSI) has been India Company. In 1805, the East for military prisoners (who serve as declared as a conserved monument India Company decided to establish assistants) during sermons and mass. and dedicated to the common public churches in all their seven military The small annexes in the church is by Mr Ramachandran Kadannappalli; garrisons, including Kannur. said to have been used as horse stables Minister for Museums, Archaeology and Archives, in a function held at the As directed by the Chaplain of Madras So many documents related to the church. Rt. Rev. Royce Manoj Victor, Presidency, the plan and estimate church like Baptism register, Cemetery the Bishop in the Diocese, officially for the chapel with a capacity of 600 register, reports and accounts of the received the preserved documents persons was then prepared by the church, Books on Prayers and songs, from the minister. Mr K. Sudhakaran, Military Board. In 1811the work of this utensils all are still preserved. Member of Parliament, chaired the chapel was completed with an amount function. of 5000 pagodas (Rs.36,000/-). A The cemetery accommodates many cemetery was also provided near the tombstones of various types and sizes. A considerable amount of Rupees church. In 1808, Rev. John Dustar Some tombstones are totally damaged 86.50 Lakhs (8.65 million) was spent Willy was appointed for conducting and some parts and covered in thick on the conservation of the church Holy mass for the military and undergrowth. Most of the tombstones building. An amount of Rupees 22.29 civilians and the construction was are made of laterite bricks with a Lakhs was allotted to preserve the under his supervision. Later he served marble slab on top, inscribed with invaluable documents of the church. as Chaplain for more than 15 years, the personal details of the buried of The Minister expressed the willingness till his death. Immediately after the which the majority are Europeans. of the State to conserve the cemetery completion of the Church, the directors Even though the graveyard is in a of the church in which around five wrote a letter to the Senior Chaplain bad condition, the structures of the hundred foreigners were buried. the Archbishop of Canterbury, seeking graveyard take us back to the glorious permission to officially dedicate the past of the British in India. There are documents as old as in 1853 church and cemetery. But the function among the preserved ones by the was delayed due to various reasons. government. Around ten thousand In 1833, with the withdrawal of the Aditya Gets Support pages from various documents such Military Guards from the church, it as a Holy Bible published in 1892, became more civilian oriented. Later from CSI Diocese of Baptism register, Marriage Register, when Basel mission arrived in Kannur, Malabar, Wayanad and Service Register are preserved by their missionaries conducted services. the Museum of Kerala in this process. In 1852, the church has renovated and Area Youth modified. Malabar, 25 Jan 2021. Rev. Raju Cheeran, the Vicar of the church and the committee members The construction is a combination of iss Adithya, a poor Adivasi organised the meeting following the Kerala and the Greek styles and from Mgirl got selected to the senior COVID protocols. an aerial view, it looks like a cross. The national women tennis ball cricket Greek-style pillars and the design have team, but she did not even had a (St. John’s CSI Anglican Church, the been adopted from the style which was cricket kit. The Youth Movement of first Protestant Church in Malabar, popular in those times in England. The the Wayanad area of the Malabar established in 1811, is one of the main portion of the church measures Diocese of the Church of South India oldest British monuments in north 70ft length, 47ft breadth and 41ft (CSI) took it as a task to help the Kerala and is situated in the Kannur height. The church is constructed in aspiring cricketer with a full cricket Cantonment. The church was laterite bricks with lime plastering kit. Rt. Rev. Royce Manoj Victor; the established for the British militia who having a tiled roof, wooden ceiling Bishop in the Diocese, handed over was camping here and was constructed and granite slabs for flooring.. The the kit to Miss Adithya in a function by the Military engineers from Madras altar is simple. The chairs, benches organised at the Krishnagiri Cricket (now Chennai, in Tamilnadu). In a and the pulpit are in wood and still Stadium in the presence of Rev Robin, treaty with the Tipu Sultan of Mysore, stand elegant. Many marble plaques who coordinated the efforts to raise in 1792, the whole of Malabar North are mounted on the walls in memory fund for the cricket kit.

26 February 2021 www.csi1947.com www.csi1947.com 2727 Date of Publication: First week of Every Month. CSI Life Monthly English News Magazine posted at Egmore RMS1/Pathrika Channel Registered with Registrar of Newspaper of India No. TNENG/2001/07245

Edited & PublishedFebruary by Adv. C.2021 Fernandas Rathina Raja, General Secretary, Church of South India Synod from CSI Centre, No. 5, Whites Road, Chennai - 600 014. Ph: 2852 1566 / 4166 2828 Managing Editor: Rev. Sunil Raj Philip, Director, CSI Synod Communications. Printed by: N. Raja Singh at Mighty Rock Printers, 52, Nair Varadha Pillai Street, Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014. Mob: 99622 02158. Phone: 2860 2158