Living in rhythm with age
We do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:16)
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord Jesus.
In the upcoming months, we will focus liturgically on developing sound doctrinal conviction and Christian spiritual growth, with a particular emphasis on various age groups.
As we journey through life, it’s essential to recognize the importance of living in the rhythm of age and Christian maturity. This means embracing the unique challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities that come with each stage of life, while also deepening our faith and spiritual practice.
In our youth, we are full of energy and idealism, eager to make a difference in the world. As we grow into adulthood, we take on new responsibilities and challenges, but we must also cultivate emotional intelligence, healthy habits, and strong relationships.
As we mature in our faith, we must also learn to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom, discernment, and compassion. This means embracing the rhythms of life, with all its joys and sorrows, and finding ways to integrate our faith into every aspect of our lives.
Living in the rhythm of age and Christian maturity requires intentionality, humility, and a willingness to learn and grow. It means being open to new experiences, challenges, and opportunities, while also being rooted in our faith and values.
May God help us to grow in spiritual wisdom and maturity.
With prayerful regards,
Genil Abraham Achen
CHURCH PROGRAMMES
Regular Meetings
OUR MISSION INITIATIVES
- Umeed
- Mar Thoma School
- Balwadi
- Paratwada Congregation

Umeed – A Shelter of Hope for Pediatric Cancer Patients
Umeed is a project launched in collaboration with the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), Mumbai—India’s leading cancer treatment hospital.
Each year, many children afflicted with cancer from remote parts of India come to TMC for diagnosis and treatment. Many of these families are financially disadvantaged and struggle to afford even basic necessities in Mumbai during the treatment process that sometimes extends to several weeks and some are left to fend for themselves on the footpaths of the city.
Our Response: Shelter, Food & Travel Assistance
Through Umeed, we provide:
- Shelter at Umeed, our care center in Mumbai in a peaceful and safe environment
- Nutritious meals for both children and their caregivers
- Reimbursement of local travel expenses to and from the hospital
- Emotional and community support during a challenging journey
How Are These Services Funded?
Project Umeed is entirely sustained through the generosity of our members and well-wishers. Our primary fundraising campaign, “Ruchi Vediyu, Ruchi Pakaru,” is conducted annually during the Great Lent season, inviting members to share for those in need. The prayers, donations, and volunteering spirit of our members form the backbone of this mission.
Project Umeed is managed under the banner of Mar Thoma Welfare Society , the social outreach arm of the Parish.

Mar Thoma School, Maharashtra – English Medium School (State Board)
Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Chembur started the Mar Thoma School Maharashtra in the year 1982 with K.G. classes having a strength of 12 students under the headship of Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa (then Rev. Joseph Jacob, parish vicar) and Mrs. Renee Joseph. Our first batch of SSC students appeared to the board exam in March 1996.
The present school building was inaugurated on 15th November 2002. The school under the guidance of governing council and committed teachers continued to grow steadily and gradually into a full–fledged secondary school having a current strength of 1700 students up to Class X.

Balwadi – Building Foundations for a Better Tomorrow
The Parish runs a Balwadi for children living in economically weaker areas of Shivaji Nagar.
This initiative aims to:
- Provide pre-school education and support
- Support language, cognitive, and social development
- Create a safe and engaging learning space for children aged 3–5
- Augmenting the learning capabilities of school going children
- Inculcating moral and ethical values
Currently, 25 children are enrolled in our Balwadi program. For many of them, this is their first step toward formal education—a step made possible through the love and care of our community. The enthusiasm and participation of the enrolled children and their parents gives us the motivation to manage this center in the best manner.
Balwadi is managed under the banner of Mar Thoma Welfare Society , the social outreach arm of the Parish.

Paratwada – Evangelical Outreach Program
Chembur Parish Edavaka Mission takes joy & pride to be entrusted with the responsibility of connecting with God’s children in the Paratwada region of Vidharbha. The Paratwada Mission is a part of the evangelical outreach program of the Mumbai Diocese.
Paratwada, in Amravati District, is not a well-developed region. Many parts of the region are known to deprivation, natural resources are scarce, farm activities are subdued due to low rainfall and regular draught conditions.
The mission was elevated as a Congregation recently. However, Chembur Parish remains connected to the families through regular exchange programs, for fellowship, interactions & bonding in the love of our Good Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. As this small congregation grows in the coming years, we remain committed to be a part of their journey of enhancing their social well-being.
