AUCKLAND: The first Indian Orthodox Church for the faithful of Auckland, New Zealand, is being consecrated on February 13, 14, 2015.
The St Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church under Madras Diocese will be consecrated from the blessed hands of three Metropolitans. The ceremony will be led by HG Yakoob Mar Irenios, Metropolitan of Kochi Diocese, HG Yuhanon Mar Dioscoros, Metropolitan of Chennai Diocese and HG Yuhanon Mar Policarpos, Metropolitan of Angamaly Diocese.
The Church is being named after St Geevarghese Mar Dionysius of Vattasseril (1858-1934), who was the Malankara Metropolitan (primate) of the Indian Orthodox Church. Vattasseril Geevarghese Mar Dionysius also popularly known as ‘Malankara Sabha Bhaasuran’, a title which the Church bestowed on him in recognition of his contribution to Malankara Church.
Vicar Fr Biju Mathai Pulickal has requested the prayerful presence of the faithful in large numbers during the occasion.
The event will also the participation of a large number of clergy who were involved with the church earlier. They include Very Rev Philip Thomas Cor Episcpa, Vicar, St Mary’s Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur, former Vicar Fr Shinu K Thomas, Vicar, St Mary’s Cathedral, Melbourne, Rev Fr Thomas Varghese, Vicar, St Thomas Cathedral, Sydney, former Vicar Fr Varghese P Idichandy, presently Vicar, StGregorios Church, Mathikere, Bengaluru.
On the occasion, Fr Biju Mathai Pulickal, Vicar, says the “building stands as an ever-present image of the Church, where the Holy Trinity is worshiped in spirit and in truth. It is a holy space to gather and hear the word of God, to offer intercession and praise, to offer happiness and pains of their daily lives, and to celebrate the sacraments through which we are nourished and strengthened as God’s people.”
The Vicar notes that the events marks a life time achievement moment for the faithful which will be cherished through generations.
The office bearers and various committees which worked for building the new church include:
Fr Biju Mathew, Vicar, E M Jacob, Trustee, Oommen Philip, Secretary, John Varghese, Building Committee General Convener and Philip Ayyamplackal, Consecration Committee General Convener.
The address of the new church is: 55 Keeling Road, Henderson, Auckland, New Zealand. www.sdioc.org, Email: vicar@
RSVP: Tel +09-9485215 Mobile: +027 5814215, 021-0535882
The live streaming of the event can be followed at: http://www.ustream.tv/
