✦ Faithful Today, Hopeful Tomorrow — our parish theme for 2026 ✦ Diocesan Episcopa's Visit & Parish Day — Sunday, September 27 · Holy Communion at 8:00 AM ✦ Space for the Future — Worship Center & Multipurpose Building · monthly giving begins on Parish Day
Chicago Mar Thoma Church
Messages from Our Clergy

Asst. Vicar’s Message

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

Welcome to the month of September

Dear Parishioners,

Greetings to all in the name of our loving Jesus! We thank God for His unfailing presence, guidance, and blessings. As we begin a new academic year, may our students approach learning with wisdom, discipline, confidence, and enthusiasm.

May God strengthen our teachers with enthusiasm and patience, and inspire parents to encourage and support their children. Let us embrace this new season with faith, hope, and optimism, trusting God to lead, protect, and bless every student, teacher, and family throughout the year. May September bring growth, success, peace, and abundant blessings.

September 6

Education for Transformation of Life

Education Sunday · Luke 5:1–11

Education is a powerful instrument for transforming lives. In Luke 5:1–11, Jesus met Simon Peter and his companions after a night of unsuccessful fishing. Jesus taught them, challenged their faith, and called them to a new purpose. Their encounter with Christ transformed their lives from ordinary fishermen into disciples who would serve God and people. Likewise, true education should go beyond acquiring knowledge — it should shape character, strengthen faith, develop wisdom, and inspire service. On this Education Sunday, let us encourage education that transforms minds, builds responsible communities, and leads people toward God’s purpose.

September 13

Women Who Trust God: Fearless and Faithful

Sevika Sanghom Day · John 12:1–8

In John 12:1–8, Mary demonstrated remarkable faith and courage by anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume. Her action was an expression of deep love, worship, and trust in God. Although others criticized her, Mary remained faithful to Jesus and did not allow fear or public opinion to stop her. Her example reminds us that women who trust God can be fearless in difficult circumstances and faithful in their calling. True faith gives courage to act, even when others do not understand. Like Mary, may women today boldly serve God, love others, and remain faithful to Christ, knowing that God honours sincere devotion.

September 20

Productive Living: The Best Is Yet to Come

Senior Citizens’ Sunday · John 21:18–23

John 21:18–23 reminds us that every season of life has a purpose in God’s plan. Jesus told Peter about his future and called him to continue following Him faithfully. Growing older does not mean becoming useless or unproductive. Senior citizens carry valuable experience, wisdom, faith, and stories that can guide younger generations; their lives remain a testimony of God’s faithfulness. The best is yet to come when we continue to trust and serve God. Let us honour older people, encourage them, and create opportunities for meaningful service. With God, every stage of life can be fruitful, purposeful, and a blessing to others.

September 27

God’s Unfailing Presence in Crisis

Parish Day · Mark 4:35–41

Mark 4:35–41 shows the disciples facing a frightening storm while Jesus was with them in the boat. Though they felt abandoned and afraid, Jesus was present and remained in control. When they cried out, He calmed the storm and challenged their fear with a call to faith. This passage reminds us that God’s presence does not disappear when we face crises. Storms may come through sickness, loss, financial struggles, family difficulties, or uncertainty, but we are never alone. Like the disciples, we must learn to trust Jesus even when circumstances seem overwhelming. His presence gives us courage, peace, and hope.

May God transform our lives through learning, faith, service, and perseverance. Let us trust Him in every season, knowing His presence never fails us.

In His service,

Rev. Biju Yohannan
Assistant Vicar · Chicago Mar Thoma Church