About Us
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By the abundant grace of God, we have completed yet another year in our pilgrimage of faith. We live in a time of rapid scientific and technological advancement, shaped by globalization, consumerism, and the growing influence of social media. While these developments have brought progress, humanity continues to face serious challenges such as war, ethnic conflicts, poverty, deadly diseases, ecological imbalance, and climate change, threatening the dignity of life, especially for future generations.
God, who entrusted humanity with the responsibility of stewardship, calls us to care for creation in faithful obedience and fellowship. However, this divine calling is often distorted, leading to exploitation and confusion in matters of faith. Amidst these uncertainties, our hope and strength remain rooted in our faith in the living and true God. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, God continues His redemptive mission, transforming a broken creation into a new creation in Christ.
The Church, as a redeemed and reconciled community, is called to live in obedience to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, reflecting God’s character through compassionate service and committed witness, and upholding the values of the Kingdom of God – justice, peace, love, and fellowship. As a parish, we gratefully acknowledge God’s abundant mercy and providence throughout the year. Despite our limitations, His sustaining grace has guided and strengthened us to remain faithful witnesses of the Gospel.
The Christos Mar Thoma Church, Cork, is a testimony to God’s abiding grace and the faithful commitment of His people. Its journey began on 1st August 2008 with the first Holy Communion at the residence of Mr. Ribu Chacko in Mayfield, Cork, conducted by Rev. Mathew Philip and Rev. Jacob Thomas.
As the prayer group grew, worship services were held at St. Ann’s Church, Shandon Street, from 21st July 2009, and Cottage Prayer Meetings in members’ homes became a vital spiritual foundation. Despite challenges during the global pandemic, God’s guidance enabled the prayer group to resume monthly Holy Communion services at St. John the Baptist Church, Midleton, from February 2023.
With 24 families, a request was made through Rev. Varghese Koshy to elevate the prayer fellowship to a full congregation. By God’s providence, the then Diocesan Episcopa, Rt. Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Philoxenos Thirumeni issued a circular on 1st March 2023, formally establishing the Cork Mar Thoma Congregation.The First Holy Communion of the newly constituted congregation was celebrated on 11th March 2023, attended by 118 faithful, marking a significant milestone. In 2024, two prayer groups Sehion and Sinai – were established to strengthen spiritual formation and fellowship.
Upon the request of the Congregation through the decision of the General Body on 13/09/2025, steps were initiated to elevate the status of the Congregation to a Parish. Accordingly, a circular was issued by the Metropolitan declaring the elevation of the Congregation to parish status, effective from 15 December 2025.
Since 2024, Rt. Rev. PD. Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa has been serving as our Diocesan Episcopa. Having previously ministered in Ireland & U.K as a clergy, Thirumeni has gained an in-depth understanding of the members in this region. A visionary leader with steadfast dedication to the Church, Thirumeni’s commitment and leadership are evident throughout his life and ministry.
We are deeply honoured and privileged to have Thirumeni as our Diocesan Bishop. We sincerely thank for his guidance, timely support, and spiritual counsel, as well as for his gracious presence, all of which have significantly contributed to the growth and strengthening of our parish.
With effect from 1st July 2024, Rev. Stanley Mathew John was appointed as our new Vicar and assumed charge on the same day. Since then, the Vicar along with Merry Kochamma, has been actively involved in all Holy Communion services and has diligently attended to the pastoral needs of the parish. From the month of July 2024, Holy Qurbana services have been regularly conducted on the second Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and the fourth Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The Vicar and family reside at the parsonage in Belfast.
On behalf of the parish, we express our sincere gratitude to Achen, Kochamma, and their families for their dedicated and faithful service to our parish.
The Executive Committee of the Parish is composed of Office Bearers, a Zonal Representative, Organisation Representatives, and members elected by the prayer Groups. During 2025, the Committee convened twelve meetings and three general body meetings to thoughtfully discuss and address a wide range of matters concerning the life, growth, and administration of the Parish, demonstrating committed leadership and active stewardship.
The Great Lent of 2025 began on 3 March, offering the faithful a period of reflection and preparation for the solemn celebration of the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday Holy Communion was celebrated on 12th April, led by Rev. Stanley Mathew John. The Sandhya Namaskaram services were held from 14th to 17th April at 7:00 p.m, providing the congregation members with meaningful opportunities for prayer and spiritual renewal. We are deeply grateful to the Edavaka Mission, Youth Fellowship, and Parish Choir for leading the Sandhya Namaskaram services each evening, enriching our worship and fostering a spirit of devotion and unity within the parish.
On 17 April, the Congregation observed Maundy Thursday.Holy Communion was led by our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John, at 7:00 p.m. The Pesaha Appam and other Maundy Thursday arrangements were lovingly prepared and organized by the members of the Sevika Sangham, enhancing the solemnity and spiritual significance of the service. We sincerely thank the Sevika Sangham members for their dedicated service and heartfelt contributions in making the Maundy Thursday observance meaningful for the Congregation.
The Good Friday service was held on 18 April at 9:00 a.m. at Marian Hall, Ballinhassig. The service was led by Rev. Justin Johnson Varghese, who delivered a spiritually uplifting message reflecting on the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Along with the Lay Leaders, all three services were conducted with deep devotion, making the observance truly a blessing for the congregation. After the service, rice gruel was served to all members as a token of fellowship and community. We offer our heartfelt gratitude to the Sunday School for diligently arranging the service and coordinating the various roles, enriching the spiritual experience of all present and helping the Congregation reflect meaningfully on the Passion of our Lord. On 19 April 2025, the Congregation joyfully gathered to celebrate the Easter Holy Communion at St. John The Baptist Church, Midleton at 8:30 PM. Led by our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John, the service was a spiritually uplifting and blessed experience, as we rejoiced in the victory of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, over sin and death.
Through prayers, hymns, and the Holy Communion, the faithful were invited to meditate on the profound love and grace of God manifested in the resurrection
of Christ.
The Sunday School of our Congregation joyfully conducted this year’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) from 22 to 24 April 2025, with the theme “JESUS THE LIFE ARCHITECT”, inspiring our children to build their lives firmly upon the teachings and example of our Lord Jesus Christ. The program was thoughtfully directed by Miss. Anet Sara Koshy from the UK and was held at Carrigtwohill Community Centre from 9 am to 4pm. Our Sunday School children participated with great enthusiasm, engaging in meaningful lessons, worship, and activities that deepened their understanding of God’s love and guidance.
On behalf of the Congregation, we express our heartfelt gratitude to the Sunday School Headmistress, teachers, and volunteers for their dedication and prayerful efforts in making the VBS a spiritually enriching and blessed experience for all the children.
A Family Meet-up of Cork Mar Thoma Congregation was prayerfully held on 10 May, 2025 following the Holy Communion. The gathering was specially organized to welcome and focus on families who
joined the Parish after 2023. Around 40 families participated in the Holy Communion and joined the meet-up, making the occasion a joyful expression of fellowship and unity.
The Vice President, Mr. Albert S. Mathew, presented a slide show featuring photographs and videos of the Congregation activities over the past years, evoking fond memories and strengthening the sense of togetherness among the members. Our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John, presided over the meeting and, through his inspiring message, warmly welcomed the families into the spiritual fellowship of the Holy Communion, encouraging them to grow together in faith and communion. Nearly 120 Congregation members participated in this blessed gathering.
As part of the Family Meet-up, various organizations of the Congregation presented meaningful programs, reflecting the vibrancy and unity. The event concluded with a Food Sale organized under the leadership of the Congregation Choir, which further enhanced the spirit of fellowship and joy. We gratefully acknowledge and thank all those who contributed their time, talents, and efforts to make this Family Meet-up a spiritually enriching and memorable occasion.
An ecumenical and multi-lingual Bible Marathon was hosted by St. John The Baptist Church, Midleton on 23 and 24 May as part of its 200th anniversary celebrations. Representatives from our Congregation actively participated in this meaningful spiritual event. Our Congregation was blessed with the opportunity to proclaim readings from the Holy Bible in the Malayalam language on 23 May 2025.
We sincerely thank Rt. Rev. William Paul Colton (Bishop of Cork, Cloyne & Ross) and Rev. Susan Green for graciously providing us with this opportunity and for appreciating our Congregation’s participation, encouragement, and contribution to the success of this historic and prayerful occasion. Following, two families from our Congregation also joined in the fellowship.
The Annual Convention and Congregation Day were prayerfully conducted from 20th to 22nd June,with Congregation Day being specially set apart on 22 June 2025. The convention was spiritually enriched
by the devotional sessions led by Rev. John Mathew C, who guided the Congregation through the Word of God with inspiring messages during the retreat meetings. Song booklets were printed and
distributed.
On 22nd June, Congregation Day was celebrated with the Holy Communion under the leadership of Rev. John Mathew C with the participation of our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John. The day was marked by prayer, fellowship, thanksgiving and lunch was lovingly arranged for all who took part in the celebrations.
We gratefully acknowledge the devoted efforts of the convenors, Mr. Manju T. Jacob and Mrs. Manju Varghese, whose dedication and commitment greatly contributed to the smooth conduct of the program. Alongside this, a Book Sale was organized under the leadership of the Edavaka Mission, adding to the spiritual focus of the event.
We also extend our sincere thanks to all those who supported and contributed to the success of the Book Sale.We praise God for His abundant grace and guidance throughout these blessed days of worship,learning, and fellowship.
A one-day picnic was joyfully organized on 11th July 2025 to Killarney, with the participation of around 60 parish members. The group visited Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall, and Killarney National Park, where the members had the opportunity to admire the beauty of God’s creation while enjoying warm fellowship with one another. The day was filled with joyful moments of togetherness, including sharing meals, engaging in fun games, laughter, and meaningful conversations that strengthened the bonds within the Congregation family. Refreshments and food were arranged at Killarney National Park, providing a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere for all.
The picnic was carefully coordinated by the convenors, Mr. Albert Samuel Mathew and Mrs. Mini David. Our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John, Merry Kochamma along with their parents also joined the tour, adding to the happiness and spiritual encouragement of the gathering.
We thank God for a blessed day filled with travel, joy, fellowship, and shared memories, and we sincerely appreciate all those whose efforts made this picnic a memorable and refreshing experience for the Congregation.
The Student Dedication Service was reverently observed on 13 September 2025 during the Holy Communion Service at the Carrigtwohill Community Centre. On this blessed occasion, our Vicar, Rev. Stanley Mathew John, led special prayers for all students, entrusting them to God’s loving cares they began a new academic year, and seeking divine wisdom, guidance, and protection upon their lives and studies.
Our children joyfully and prayerfully took part in the Holy Communion by serving in various roles, reflecting their growing faith and commitment to the life of the Church. A generous donation of 706 Euro was received from the children. We praise God for the precious gift of our children and pray that they may continue to grow in faith, knowledge, and grace, becoming faithful witnesses of Christ in all that they do.
The Onam Celebration of the Congregation was celebrated on 13th September 2025, following the Holy Communion, with the participation of 39 families and a total of 130 members. Onam, being a festival that reflects thanksgiving, humility, equality and God’s providence, provided an occasion for the Congregation to celebrate the cultural heritage. The programme included a variety of Onam cultural events and games, which brought joy and active participation from members of all age groups.
A traditional Onasadhya was also arranged, symbolizing sharing, gratitude, and togetherness. The Congregation records its sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Convenors, Mr. Roby Mathew Mathew, Mrs. Mini David, Mr. Sonu Sunny Mathew and Mr. Libin Varghese for their dedicated efforts and efficient coordination in arranging and conducting the celebration in a smooth and meaningful manner.
Diocesan Sunday was reverently observed on 28th September by the Congregation. Rev. Subin Mathew Parayil led the Holy Communion and gave leadership to the Area Prayer Meeting, offering spiritual guidance and fellowship.
The observance of Diocesan Sunday served to strengthen the congregation’s awareness of its connection with the Diocese and encouraged continued prayerful support for the ministries and mission of the Church.
Following the Holy Communion at 9/ am, our Congregation came together at Lisgoold Community Centre to celebrate the Harvest Festival and Family Sunday. In thanksgiving for God’s abundant blessings, members brought homemade food, fresh produce, plants, and other offerings, sharing the fruits of their labor with the community. The auction, marked by enthusiastic participation, raised a total of €5495, reflecting the generosity and spirit of fellowship. We give thanks to God for the hands that prepared, the hearts that gave, and the convenors Mr. Nipin Joseph Babu, Mrs. Mini David, Mrs. Manju Varghese and Mrs. Leena Puthoor Abraham and the auctioneer Mr. Nithin Palanilkunnathil Thomas whose dedication helped make this celebration a joyful expression of our faith and gratitude. We also express our sincere gratitude to our vicar Rev. Stanley Mathew John for organising a crepe stall which added a joyful and engaging element to the day.
For Family Sunday, members knelt together with their families for Holy Communion, participating in prayers and dedicating themselves and their households to God. The Family Sunday offertory amounted to €1245, a sign of the generosity and devotion of our Congregation families.
The Youth Fellowship started its initial meetings this year under the inspiring leadership of Mr. Sonu Sunny Mathew, continues to grow and flourish within our Congregation community. Members actively participate in parish activities, offering their energy, enthusiasm, and service in devotion to God and the Congregation.
On 13th September, the Congregation joyfully celebrated Youth Fellowship Day, recognizing the contributions and spiritual growth of our young members. Their involvement reflects a vibrant and hopeful future for our Congregation, rooted in faith, fellowship, and service.
The Congregation conducted a One-Day Income on 8th November, received a total of €3872. We are grateful to all the families who participated with generosity and devotion, contributing to the support and growth of our Congregation activities
The Congregation’s Christmas Door-to-Door Rounds were organized by the Executive Committee on 29th & 30th November, and 5th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 22nd, and 23rd December. Our Vicar graced the carol services on 30th November and 13th December, adding a special blessing to the celebrations. The rounds received a total of €3620, reflecting the generosity and support of our Congregation community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the convenors, Mr. Albert S Mathew & Mr. Togi Cherian Varghese, for their dedicated coordination, to all the families who welcomed and supported the carol team, and especially to those who graciously arranged food for the carol team.
The General Body meeting held on 13 September 2025 unanimously decided to apply for elevation to Parish status, noting a strength of 68 families, and resolved to submit the approved minutes to the Rt. Rev. PD. Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa (Diocesan Episcopa) for consideration. The Episcopal Synod convened at Thiruvalla on 28th November 2025 presided by His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, graciously approved to accept the Congregation as a Parish of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, with the effect from 15th December 2025.
In accordance with this decision, the Parish was officially designated as Christos Mar Thoma Church,Cork and Rev. Stanley Mathew John was appointed as the first Vicar of the Parish. This elevation marks a moment of profound thanksgiving and renewed commitment, as the faithful entrust the future ministry and mission of the Parish to the gracious leading of our Lord and Saviour,Jesus Christ.
We express our sincere gratitude to His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, our Diocesan Episcopa Rt. Rev. PD Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios, the clergies and laity who served for their continuous support and blessings.
The Christmas Carol Service, organized by the Parish Choir along with the church committee, was held on 20th December at 6:30 pm at Marian Hall, Ballinhassig, with the theme “O Come, Let Us Adore Him”. The service was a joyful and prayerful celebration of the birth of our Lord, bringing together the parish community in worship and fellowship. The service was presided over by our Vicar Rev. Stanley Mathew John, and the Chief Guest Mr.Renjith Christy, delivered the Christmas message, enriching the occasion with words of reflection
and hope. All the auxiliary bodies of the parish actively participated and presented programs, contributing meaningfully to the celebration. Christmas carol service booklets were printed and distributed. A special offertory was also received with a total amount of 1005 euro. We express our sincere gratitude to the Choir Leader Mr. Nipin Joseph Babu, the Convenors Mrs.Manju Varghese & Mrs. Jinu Elza Jacob and all parish organizations and individuals who contributed their time, talents, and efforts in making the Christmas Carol Service a spiritually uplifting and memorable celebration.A cake-cutting ceremony was also organized to celebrate and share the joy of our community being established as a parish.
This joyful occasion was marked by thanksgiving to God and fellowship among the faithful, expressing gratitude for His continued blessings and guidance in the life of our parish.
The New Year Service was prayerfully observed with the celebration of the Holy Communion on 1st January, 2026 at St. John’s the Baptist Church, Midleton. About 90 members participated in the service, gathering in thanksgiving and seeking God’s blessings for the year ahead. Following the Holy Communion, cake was shared among the members, adding a spirit of fellowship and joy to the occasion.
The parish is blessed with two active prayer groups, Sehion and Sinai, which continue to nurture the spiritual life of the community through regular prayer gatherings. The Sehion Prayer Group conducts prayer meetings on every second Friday evening, while the Sinai Prayer Group gathers for prayer on the fourth Sunday evening of each month. These prayer meetings are conducted under the leadership of our Vicar Rev. Stanley Mathew John. We express our sincere gratitude to the Sehion Group Representative, Mr. John Kunnel Baby, and the Sinai Group Representative, Mr. Ribu Chacko, for their dedication and committed leadership in sustaining these prayer ministries.
The Vicar, Executive committee and members of the parish express our heartfelt condolence to the members who lost their family members this report year.