Albany, New York: A team representing the Family & Youth Conference of the Northeast American Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church received a warm welcome as they visited St. Paul’s Indian Orthodox Church in Albany, NY on Sunday, March 5.
After the Holy Qurbana, Rev. Fr. Alex K Joy (Vicar) welcomed and introduced the Family Conference team that included Cheriyan Perumal (Conference Secretary) and Binu Koppara (Church Managing Committee Member). Fr. Alex K Joy encouraged everyone to attend this year’s Family & Youth Conference, which will be held from July 12 through 15 at the Holy Transfiguration Retreat Center of the Northeast American Diocese.
Binu Koppara spoke about the importance of the youth stepping up to lift up the church and the society. Cheriyan Perumal encouraged everyone to make use of the availability of facilities like the Holy Transfiguration Retreat Center to hold small and large meetings and retreats. His Grace Abraham Mar Stephanos, the newly ordained Metropolitan of the Diocese of Europe and Africa will be the key-note speaker. Rev. Fr. Mat Alexander, the Youth Minister of the Diocese of the Southwest American will lead the sessions for the youth. The organizers are planning for various sessions aimed at spiritual enrichment for different age groups, sports and entertainment activities.
On behalf of the parish, Davy Cheeran, the parish Treasurer handed over its sponsorship check for the Souvenir. At the request of the Vicar, several members pledged their support to the Family & Youth Conference. Elizabeth Paul, the Secretary of the parish handed over her donation to the conference and thanked the conference team for its visit.
For more information, please contact Fr. Sunny Joseph, Conference Director (Tel.: 718.608.5583) or Cheriyan Perumal, Conference Secretary (Tel.: 516.439.9087)