An active member of St. Thomas Orthodox Congregation of Southern Africa, Mr. Thomas K. L. Vaidyan, recently presented a paper “Supernatural Phenomena and the Human Condition: Jesus’ Baptismal Visionary Experiences as a Case Study“ in an international symposium held at the University of South Africa, Pretoria.

The participants were scholars from various Universities in the U.S., Spain, France, Belgium, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. The aims of the symposium are to build research capacity, increase research output and contribute to the academic discussion globally. The research findings are being published internationally in a book with a chapter contributed by Mr. Thomas Vaidyan.

Thomas Vaidyan of Kizhakkedathu hails from the parish of Martha Mariam Orthodox Church, Thevalakkara. His previous contributions include publications by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Department of Education, South Africa, where he worked for the last 28 years in different capacities.  At present he is a Curriculum Specialist with the National Education Collaboration Trust, South Africa. His latest publication is “A Guide to Biblical Instruction for the Present Generation.” His current research in the field of New Testament and Early Christian Studies is in the University of South Africa.

Mr. Thomas Vaidyan is the elder brother to Rev. Dr. K. L. Mathew Vaidyan Cor-Episcopa. His younger son, Mr. Jerry Thomas Vaidyan is a member of the current Managing Committee of our Church.