Dear ones in Christ,

Live the Gospel was the theme of the 115th Maramon Convention. St.Francis of Assissi, renounced all his property and thus became a monk. After visiting a nearby village his fellow monk asked Francis, we went to the village with a vision to preach Gospel, but we didn’t. Francis replied, "I preach Gospel, but use very little words.” Its not words but life most important to communicate the Gospel. We see the love of Jesus as central message of the Gospel. To make the Gospel livable is the only criteria to make Gospel lovable. We are now in the much devoted days of our Christian growth, thru spiritual exercises of Lent. In the syrian tradition, the Great Lent begins with Reconciliation. Abraham Lincoln's words are quote worthy.” Never fear criticism when you are right; never ignore it when you are wrong." The first Monday of Great Lent is observed as Shubkono[service of Reconciliation]. In western tradition it is on Ash Wednesday. This year the Mid Lent is on March 10th.The 40th Friday falls on 26th and Hosanna on 28th. Holy week thus set apart till April 4th [Easter]. The cross is the focus of our meditation. The ministry and suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ gives us Hope of victory over the sufferings of humanity. God’s concern for the suffering of the voiceless, the poor, the oppressed and the marginalized are revealed thru the cross. The victory is proclaimed thru the Resurrection. The Lent gives us the opportunity to reflect on the different facets of Jesus' life. The Gospel pictures Jesus as the Light[st.John8:12],the Resurrection and Life[Jn 11:25],as the Good Shepherd[Jn 10:11],as the Living Water[Jn 4:10,7:38]and the Bread of Life[Jn 6:35].Meditate constantly, Pray vigilantly, Live wisely, be the true admirer of the cross and participate in the salvific ministry entrusted to each one of us.

March 7th is observed as the Diocesan Sunday. We are called to take active role in the activities of the diocese. The Rev. K. A. Abraham [Vicar of San Francisco] is visiting us and myself will be there, as part of the pulpit change programme. Uphold us in your prayers and extend hands of support to gain the target. March 20th, the Sevika Sangam regional meeting is held at San Francisco. The theme of the Conference is "Called to be Fragrance of Grace". I request members of the parish sevika sangam to schedule to participate. May the good Lord prepare us to march out victorious in these days of spiritual fellowship. Observe peace, health, and co-operation, to triumph over temptations that may hinder cordial and warm relationship with God and fellow being.

In Our Lord's Vineyard,
Sincerely

Binu Varghese Achen
January 26th,61st Republic Day of India

PS: As per the decision of our General Body from February, 2010 onwards we will have Holy Communion in Malayalam on all First Sundays [9.30am] and Fourth Saturdays [6pm]. On Fifth Sunday the service shall be as usual