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Chicago Mar Thoma Church
Messages from Our Clergy

Asst. Vicar’s Message

A word to the parish from Rev. Biju Yohannan — October 2026.

Dear Parishioners,

Greetings to you all in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

This month, our Sunday reflections invite us to discover what it means to live as God's people: serving His Kingdom, embracing every person with grace, building an unshaken faith, and celebrating family relationships. Together, these themes remind us that Christian life is a calling to love, serve, belong, and witness.

October 4

Members of the Church: Ministers of the Kingdom of God

Voluntary Evangelist Association Day · John 15:12–16

Jesus says, "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12). The church is not merely a place where we gather; it is a community of people called and sent to participate in God's Kingdom. First, we are called to love — Christian ministry begins with Christ-like love: serving others, forgiving one another, carrying burdens, and caring for those in need. Our identity as Christ's disciples is demonstrated through our love. Second, we are called to serve. Jesus reminds His disciples, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit" (v.16). Every church member has a God-given calling. Ministry is not limited to clergy; every believer is called to become a servant of God's Kingdom. Third, we are called to bear fruit. Our words, character, service, and witness should reveal Christ to the world. Therefore, every member is a minister, every life is a mission, every act of love can become Kingdom ministry, and it's our responsibility to reflect Christ wherever God has placed us.

October 11

Sufficiency of God's Grace

Day of Differently Abled · John 9:1–7

John 9:1–7 reminds us that a person's disability should never become a reason for judgment, exclusion, or diminished dignity. When Jesus' disciples asked whose sin caused the man's blindness, Jesus redirected their attention from blame to God's work and grace. Jesus saw the person before Him — not a problem to be explained, but a life worthy of compassion and love. The healing of the man teaches us that God's grace is sufficient for every person and every circumstance. Human limitations do not limit God's purpose. Every person is created in God's image and has unique gifts, dignity, and a meaningful place in the community of faith. On Differently Abled Sunday, the Church is called not merely to show compassion, but to practice inclusion, participation, accessibility, and mutual respect. We are not complete when some are excluded. God's grace is sufficient, and His love calls us to become a community where every person belongs, every gift matters, and every life reflects God's glory.

October 18

Unshaken Faith in a Fleeting World

Yuvajana Sunday · Matthew 7:21–27

We live in a rapidly changing world where trends, opinions, relationships, and circumstances can change quickly. Jesus, in Matthew 7:21–27, reminds us that a meaningful faith life must be built on a foundation that does not change. He compares those who hear His words and put them into practice to a wise person who builds a house on rock. For young people, faith should not be merely about attending church, knowing Bible verses, or using Christian language. Faith becomes strong when God's Word is lived out in everyday life. Prayer, obedience, integrity, forgiveness, compassion, and service become the foundations of an unshaken life. The storms of life will come — failure, disappointment, temptation, uncertainty, and change. But a life rooted in Christ can remain firm. Therefore, Yuvajana Sunday calls every young person to build life on Christ, not on changing circumstances. The world may be fleeting, but God's Word remains. When Christ is our foundation, we can stand unshaken.

October 25

Family – Celebration of Relationships

Christian Family Dedication Sunday · Mark 3:31–35

In Mark 3:31–35, Jesus expands our understanding of family. When His mother and brothers came looking for Him, Jesus said, "Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother." Jesus does not diminish the importance of the biological family; rather, He reminds us that God's family is built on relationships shaped by love, faith, and obedience. A Christian family is more than people living under one roof. It is a place where faith is shared, love is practiced, forgiveness is experienced, and God's presence is nurtured. Family relationships become a testimony when members listen to one another, support one another, and walk together through life's joys and struggles. On Family Dedication Sunday, we celebrate families as gifts from God and commit ourselves to strengthening them. We are also reminded that the Church is a spiritual family where everyone belongs. May our homes become places where Christ is welcomed, relationships are treasured, and God's will be faithfully lived. May our God continue to shape our lives beyond Sunday worship, and let us become faithful ministers, compassionate helpers, steadfast disciples, and Christ-centered families.

In His service,

Rev. Biju Yohannan
Assistant Vicar · Chicago Mar Thoma Church