My Dear members of the Parish,

As you all may be aware of, we have three new bishops. Given below are the names of them. I have done a small word study of their names. You are requested to remember them in your prayers.

1.Very  Rev Dr. Varghese Mathai  Ramban is consecrated as  Rt. Rev. Dr. Mathews Mar Makarios  of the Mar Thoma Church; The word makkarios is of Greek origin and its meaning is ' blessed' . In the New Testament we see this word repeated in the beatitudes in the sermon on the mount.

In the history of the early church we had many Church fathers with this name and among them . St. Makarios the Great of Egypt deserves special mention

2. Very Rev K V Varkey Ramban is consecrated as  Rt. Rev.  Gregorios Mar Stephanos" Stephanos" is the Bibblical name of Stephan, the first martyr of the Church. He is also known as the first deacon of the Church ( See book of Acts Ch.6 & 7 ) . The meaning of the word is 'crown'or 'garland'. The meaning of the word Gregorios is 'watchful' and is associated with a shepherd's watchfulness.

3.Very Rev Dr. Oommen George is consecrated as Rt. Rev Dr. Thomas Mar Theethose .This is the equivalent of the name Titus in the New Testament. Titus was the Bishop in Crete (Titus1:5-7) to whom St .Paul wrote one of the Pastoral Epistles. Meaning of this word is "honorable".

Let us pray that they may lead the church in mission and witness.

Yours in His service

Benjaminachen

Aug 14.