The Mar Thoma Syrian Church celebrates 175th year of Reformation in the Malankara Church. It is only appropriate to acknowledge the positive role played by CMS in its reformation process. With this understanding, Rt Rev Geevarghese Mar Theodosius Episcopa made a visit to CMS office at Oxford on 24th of August 2011. The Rev. Canon Tim Dakin, General Secretary of CMS along with Rev. Philip A Simpson, Asia director welcomed Thirumeni to their office.
Christians, it was acknowledged that both the CMS and the Mar Thoma Syrian Church have not adequately continued the same warmth in their relationship for the past 175 years. Hence, it was felt necessary to initiate some measures to bridge our bonds in order to face the challenges of today within the global mission arena. As part of the discussion the following thoughts were shared to have a healthy companionship:
1. Initiate more studies on the role of CMS in the reformation of Malankara St. Thomas community, deploying contemporary mission analytical tools.
2. CMS will consider giving more involvement to the Mar Thoma Syrian Church in its programmes and even in its governing bodies especially as they launch their Asia office.
3. Explore more mission activities where CMS and Mar Thoma Syrian Church can join hands together globally.
Rev. Abraham Mathew, the vicar of St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Bristol also accompanied Thirumeni and participated in the discussions. Rev. Canon Tim Dakin recalled his experiences at the Maramon convention.
(Note: Rev.Canon Tim Dakin has been appointed as Bishop of Winchester, subsequent to the above visit)
