The St Thomas Indian Orthodox Church, situated on Front Street, Winlaton, Blaydon-on-Tyne, NE21 4RF, is about to achieve a momentous milestone as it prepares for its consecration on May 26th and 27th, 2024.
This event marks a significant achievement for the Indian Orthodox community in the UK-Europe and Africa geographical region, particularly in Newcastle.
From Methodist Church to Indian Orthodox Church
The St Thomas Indian Orthodox church, originally a Methodist church, was acquired on October 2, 2016, and subsequently adapted to suit Indian Orthodox worship traditions. This transformation represents a remarkable accomplishment for the Newcastle Orthodox community, symbolising years of dedication and growth.
The Journey
The roots of the Malankara Orthodox Church in the region stretch back to the 1930s when the presence of Malayalee Christians in North East England, particularly in Newcastle, was low. The inaugural service was conducted by Rev. Fr. Thomas Yohannan at St. Andrews Church, Lamesley, Gateshead. Since then, regular services have been conducted, initially on a quarterly basis at an Anglican church in the Wallsend area.
The journey towards the establishment of St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church gained momentum with significant milestones. On August 7, 2004, a pivotal meeting convened at the City Hospital chapel in Sunderland, graced by the presence of HG Bishop Abraham Mar Saverious. Subsequently, on January 22, 2005, members unanimously selected the name ‘St. Thomas’ for the fellowship, officially declared a congregation on January 5, 2008, by HG Dr. Thomas Mar Makarios.
The Consecration Ceremony
The upcoming consecration ceremony, to be officiated by the Supreme Head of the Indian Orthodox Church, HH Moran Mar Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews III, alongside Diocesan Metropolitan HG Abraham Mar Stephanos, is a momentous occasion for the community.
Scheduled for May 26th, 2024, this event will witness the participation of dignitaries from various religious denominations, including representatives from the Church of England, Catholic Church, Coptic Orthodox Church, Romanian Orthodox Church, Greek Orthodox Church, Eritrean Orthodox Church, and Ethiopian Orthodox Church, among others.
Furthermore, a public meeting on May 27th, 2024, will be presided over by HH Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, providing an opportunity for the wider community to share in this historic moment.
St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church stands as a beacon of hope and faith for its members, a community united in its dedication to the Orthodox tradition. The forthcoming Holy Consecration serves as a testament to the perseverance and spirit of this small yet vibrant faith community.
An Invitation to Witness
As the St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church prepares to embark on this historic moment, an invitation is extended to all to witness and celebrate.
For further details and inquiries contact, the Church Secretary, Reji Thomas via telephone at 07962200998 or email at reji_pune@yahoo.co.uk.
