Diocesan Secretary Desk - May 2025

Dearly beloved in Christ,

As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, we are called once again to examine our hearts and align our lives with the holiness of God. Scripture reminds us, “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:15–16). Thisis not merely a call to outward discipline, but to inward renewal—a sanctified life that reflects Christ in thought, word, and deed.

Lent invites us into deeper communion with God, a stripping away of all that distracts us from His presence, and a return to obedience so that we may experience His abounding grace. As the Apostle Paul urges in Romans 12:1, “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” May this season stir in us a hunger for holiness and a readiness to walk faithfully in His purpose.

We praise God for His gracious hand upon our recent Diocesan Convention. It was a time of spiritual renewal, unity, and fellowship. Our Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. PD. Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa, reminded us that“the Resurrected Christ makes our life a never-ending festival.”I extend heartfelt thanks to the members of the Diocesan Council, the sub-committees, organisations, and all our parishes for your disciplined, prayerful, and wholehearted participation. Your collective effort made the Convention a true reflection of our shared faith and mission.

We give thanks for the continued support of our mission initiatives, particularly the Navodaya Movement and Navjeevan Centre, which strive to extend the Kingdom of God in tangible and transformative ways. Your prayers and contributions uphold these ministries as they bring light to many lives.

The recent Mission Youth Conference, themed ‘Tune in the Mission’, was yet another reminder that the Spirit of God is at work across generations. A dedicated group of young people with a burning desire for mission attended the conference. They stood with boldness and clarity, and it was deeply encouraging to witness the loving guidance offered by our elders.

Our Diocesan Episcopa, in his inaugural address, encouraged the youth, saying, “Fire exists by burning, and the Church exists by its mission.” He quoted the words inscribed at the entrance of the sanctuary at Kenilworth Union Church. As one enters, a plaque reads, “Enter to worship” and, upon exiting, another reads, “Depart to serve.” These six well-chosen words are a simple yet powerful reminder of our true purpose—a gentle but potent nudge toward living out our Christian Commitments.

Yet, we are not unaware of the times we live in. The opposition from outside is growing stronger, and the values we hold dear are increasingly being challenged. In such times, we must remember that our greatest strength is found in prayer—in the stillness of kneeling before God, seeking His will, and standing firm in His promises.

Let us be diligent in offering one another mutual moral and spiritual support. Let us uplift the weary, encourage the faithful, and continue to build one another up in Christ. Our unity and holiness will be our witness.

As we look to what lies ahead, I humbly seek your continued prayerful support—for our leaders, our mission fields, our youth, and every servant of the Lord working to sow seeds of hope and truth.

With prayerful regards

Yours in His service

Very Rev. Thomas K. Jacob

Vicar General/Diocesan Secretary