Indian Orthodox in Bangalore trying English liturgies

Bangalore (Orthodox Herald) -  The Bangalore Diocese under the young and dynamic leadership of HG Dr Abraham Mar Seraphim, Metropolitan, has launched the Holy Eucharist in English on an experimental basis.

This is a commendable achievement from the nascent Diocese which will prove to be a boon for the vast third generation of Orthodox Malayalee youths who are more comfortable in English than their native tongue.

Dr Mar Serapahim had after taking charge last year pledged during his meeting with the youth movement and at the Diocese Conference that an initiative will be made to improve the spiritual life among the youth. It is in this direction that a conscience effort is being made to bring them into the mainstream.

The realisation of the English service was one of the major action plan which the Metropolitan had devised for the Bangalore Orthodox youth. This will enhance their spiritual life and also nurture the young generation into the Orthodox faith.

Presently, the English services of the Holy Qurbana are a month-old and held on Sunday evenings under the leadership of Dr Mar Seraphim and Aramana Manager, Rev Fr Abraham Thomas. There are plans to start the service at different areas of the vast metropolis based on its initial response. Youths are requested to carry the Holy Bible with them since there will be a Bible study after the service.

The service will also greatly benefit many professionals working into the wee hours of the night and are unable to attend the early morning Sunday service.

MGOCSM & OCYM Bangalore Diocese members have opened a page on Facebook with 377 members to date. The postings help in mass interaction and communication among all the MGOCSM and OCYM events in Bangalore. Updates of all their future programmes are posted here (Private Facebook group).

Presently, the services are being held in a rented hall. Efforts are on to look out for more available spaces at various suitable places in the vast metropolis. The first service was held at Tharakan Memorial Hall, Lingarajapuram, St Thomas Town.

Kudos to Aaron K Mathew, Ajo John and Ajith Mathew George, Youth Executive committee members, in mobilizing the youth and putting out the show unitedly.