KERALA AUXILIARY
Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Auxiliary Secretary
NEW BRANCH FORMATION
BSI Chathannoor Branch
We are pleased to announce the formation of the Chathannoor Branch, the 158th branch under the Kollam Central Region of the BSI Kerala Auxiliary. The inaugural meeting was held on 22 November 2025 at Christose Mar Thoma Church, Chathannoor, presided over by the Vicar, Rev. Johnson Philip. The Auxiliary Secretary formally inaugurated the branch. Clergy, pastors, and dignitaries attended the gathering and offered their greetings. The elected office bearers are: President – Rev. Johnson Philip, Secretary – Mr. C. O. John, Treasurer – Capt. Samkutty George.
BSI Pooyappally Branch
We are also delighted to announce the formation of the Pooyappally Branch, the 159th branch under the Kollam Central Region. The inaugural meeting was held on 22 November 2025 at St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Pooyappally, presided over by Rev. M. M. John, the Vicar. The Auxiliary Secretary inaugurated the branch, with clergy, pastors, and dignitaries in attendance. The elected office bearers are: President – Rev. M. M. John, Secretary – Mr. Saju B., Treasurer – Mr. Babu Mayanoor.
We express our sincere appreciation to Mr. K. G. Thomas, Regional Coordinator, and all the dedicated leaders who worked tirelessly to make the formation of these two new branches possible.
AUXILIARY YOUTH BIBLE QUIZ & ELOCUTION COMPETITION
The Bible Society of India, Kerala Auxiliary, conducted the Bible Quiz and Elocution Competition as part of the Scripture Engagement Programme for youths at Mar Elia Cathedral, Kottayam, on 11th October 2025. The meeting was presided over by the Auxiliary Secretary, and former Auxiliary Secretary, Rev. Dr. Samuel T. Varghese delivered the Inaugural Address. Rev. Fr. Yuhanon K. Baby, Mar Elia Cathedral Vicar, Auxiliary Treasurer, Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Quiz Master, Pr. Christopher Varghese, along with Auxiliary and Youth Committee members, Church leaders, and Branch representatives, graced the occasion with their presence and support. Bible Quiz Winners: Ist Prize: Ann B. John, Ananya B. John (Kundara Branch), IInd Prize: Sanju Sajan, Naveen L., Sharon K. (Kundara Branch), IIIrd Prize: Joanna Silju, Joshua Zachariah, Priscilla Susy Abraham (Thiruvalla Town Branch). Elocution Winners: Ist Prize: Rhesa Angel Renish (Thiruvankulam Branch), IInd Prize: Gladis P. Joseph (Thiruvalla Town Branch), IIIrd Prize: Gisna R. (Elappara Branch).
Cash prizes for the Elocution Competition were awarded in memory of Y. Mathew, and for the Bible Quiz in memory of Mrs. Chellamma Varghese Pookoyikkal. As a mark of appreciation, all winners and participants received an Auxiliary Certificate, a memento, and a gift Bible. We deeply appreciate the dedication of all participants, the encouragement of parents, and the tireless efforts of branch leaders. Special recognition is given to the effective leadership of Er. John Minu Mathew, Adv. P. V. Cherian, Er. Suja Annie Mathew, Mr. Varghese P. Jacob, Mr. Philip Daniel, Mr. Jacob P. Cherian, and all other leaders who contributed to the success of this event.
BRANCH OFFICIALS RETREAT 2025
The Bible Society of India, Kerala Auxiliary Branch Officials’ Retreat was held on November 7–8, 2025, at the Believers Eastern Church Headquarters, Thiruvalla. The inaugural session was chaired by Rt. Rev. V. S. Francis, Auxiliary Vice President, and inaugurated by the Auxiliary President, Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, who shared an inspiring message based on Isaiah 55:10, 11. As part of the 70th Anniversary (Saptathi Jubilee) celebrations, the retreat centered on the theme: “Sowing the Word, Transforming Generations – 70 Years of God’s Faithfulness.” The theme presentation was delivered by H. H. Moran Mor Dr. Samuel Theophilus Metropolitan, Head of the Believers Eastern Church. Sessions were led by Rt. Rev. Mathews Mar Seraphim Episcopa (Adoor Diocese, Mar Thoma Church), Rt. Rev. Kurian Peter (Bishop, CSI Cochin Diocese), Rev. Dr. Along Jamir (Translation Director, Bible Society of India), Rev. Fr. Dr. Daniel Johnson, Rev. Fr. Sijo Panthapallil, Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Dr. Saji Kumar K. P., Adv. P. V. Cherian, and Chev. Dr. Koshy M. George. The closing session and dedication service were led by the Auxiliary President. The St. Thomas Cathedral Choir of the Believers Church led the singing sessions & worship. Over 270 delegates, including clergy and pastors from various branches across Kerala, took part in this blessed two-day gathering.