New York/Dallas: Under the auspices of the Malankara Marthoma Church, the joint Unity Day of Prayer celebrated by the Marthoma, CSI, and CNI churches was observed devoutly on November 8 in parishes across the North America Diocese. The day of prayer was successfully organized in the parishes based on a circular issued by Dr. Theodosius Marthoma Metropolitan. This year's prayer services were arranged based on the Scripture passage “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2). The observance conveyed a powerful message of renewing the church and believers not only through external changes but also through returning to the Word of God and a life of prayer. Speakers from various parishes recalled that the fellowship and service of the 'Communion of Churches in India' (CCI), comprising the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church, CSI, and CNI churches, stands as a great testimony to the unity and cooperation among these churches. As part of the day's events, the Holy Qurbana service held at St. Paul Marthoma Church, Dallas, featured a keynote message by Rev. Baiju Eapen, Vicar of Dallas CSI Parish. He reminded that worship is not merely a gathering of spectators but an opportunity for spiritual self-examination and renewal through the Word of God. The priest shared spiritual reflections based on the theme, “Be One in Christ and Bear Witness to the World.” While acknowledging the existence of varied worship practices and traditions, the clear message was that believers are united through the Scriptures and in Christ. Unlike the selfish unity built by mankind at the Tower of Babel, the unity of the Spirit experienced at Pentecost should be the model for the Church. The priest emphasized the importance of advancing with Christ as the central focus, rather than venerating individuals or movements within the Church. Furthermore, the speech urged that the faith life, lived through mutual forgiveness and love, should extend beyond worship and prayer into mission work and bearing witness for the good of the world. The address concluded with a call, echoing Isaiah’s dedication, “Here I am, Lord; send me,” inviting every believer to subject their own lives to spiritual self-examination and dedication. The Vicar of St. Paul Marthoma, Rev. Rajin Raju, delivered the welcome address, and Parish Secretary Soji Skaria offered thanks. In connection with Unity Sunday, special worship services and intercessory prayers were conducted in all parishes throughout North America. Believers joined together in prayer for the spiritual renewal and growth of the church.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
