September 2025 Letter

Written by Rev. Noble Abraham

Dear Beloved Bristol Family,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who unites us as one family in faith. As we embrace the theme for 2025-26, WE BELIEVE (John 20:31), let us continue to root ourselves in the truth of the Nicene Creed, reaffirmed this year on its 1700th anniversary. I am delighted to share with you key events and themes for the coming months, as we grow together in worship, fellowship, and service.

1. Parish Harvest Festival Sunday and Harvest Carnival 

The Parish Harvest Festival Sunday, scheduled for Sunday, 7th September 2025, is a cherished tradition that calls us to give thanks for God’s abundant provision. Rooted in Scripture, the harvest reminds us of God’s faithfulness in sustaining creation (Gen 8:22, "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease."

It is a time to offer gratitude for both physical and spiritual blessings (Deut. 26:1-11, John 4:35-36). 

The biblical principle of STEWARDSHIP teaches us to SHARE GENEROUSLY with those in need, REFLECTING CHRIST’S LOVE (2 Cor 9:6-8). As we bring our offerings, let us recommit to being faithful stewards of God’s gifts, trusting in His promise to provide (Phil 4:19). 

This year let us join in this joyful celebration of gratitude and generosity, by coming together in fellowship for HARVEST CARNIVAL scheduled for 6th September 2025. Let us exhibit our spirit of unity and showcase our talents and celebrate our togetherness on this special one day event. I Praise God for the support and interest you have shown towards this program and I eagerly look forward for the same.

2. Special Sundays of our Organisations

The women, youths, and Edavaka mission of our parish is enriched by the vibrant ministries of Sevika Sangham, Youth Fellowship, and Voluntary Evangelism ministry of Edavaka Mission.This September and October, we dedicate special sundays to celebrate their contributions and inspire deeper engagement.

  • We specially honor the faithful service of our women, who embody the strength and compassion of biblical figures like Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42, Prov. 31:25-26). Their nurturing and leadership, indeed strengthens our church family.
  • Our Youth are the present and future of our church, called to shine as lights in the world (Matt. 5:14-16, 1 Tim. 4:12). I pray to God that our youths live boldly for Christ, rooted in the truth of the Gospel.
  • Inspired by the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20), the Parish Edavaka Mission celebrates our call to share the Good News with the zeal of mission. Starting September,  the Edavaka Mission teams plans to visit our homes fulfilling the mission to reach out to each families of our parish. Request you all to welcome them.
  • On the 4th of October 2025, our Parish Edavaka Mission plans to hold a 'Parish Revival Meeting' to renew our spiritual fervour through praise and worship singing, prayer, and reflection on God’s Word. Voluntary Evangelist, Mr. N.K. Thomas, Vice President of Mar Thoma Voluntary Evangelists' Association (MTVEA), Delhi Diocese will be the main speaker.

These special Sundays remind us that every member of our church has a vital role in building God’s kingdom (1 Cor. 12:12-27). Let us support and pray for these ministries as they lead us in faith and service.

3. Family Retreat and Family Sunday

On 25th October 2025, a 'Family Retreat' is jointly organised by our Sunday School and Parish Edavaka Mission. We have planned a blessed time for our families to grow together in faith. Through worship, teaching, and fellowship, we will explore how to nurture Christ-centered homes. Rev. Thomas Mathew Achen will lead sessions for adults. Special sessions are being planned for our Sunday School children, which is to be led by Ms. Anju Noble. This retreat will prepare us for our Family Sunday on the 26th of October 2025, when we celebrate the gift of family as the foundation of our church and society.

These events remind us that our homes are where we first live out 'We Believe', passing down our faith to the next generation. Let us come together to strengthen our families in love and unity.

A CALL TO ACTION 

As we journey through these two months, let us embrace the opportunities to grow in faith:

  • Give thanks for the  Harvest Festival all the associated events, trusting in God’s provision.
  • Support our Women, Youth, and Edavaka Mission ministries, recognizing their vital roles.
  • Seek renewal for our Church at the Revival Meeting, opening our hearts to the Holy Spirit.
  • Strengthen your family through the Family Retreat and Family Sunday, building a legacy of faith.

May God bless our parish, guide our steps, and fill us with His grace.

Yours in His Service,

Rev. Noble Abraham

 

Vicar, St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Bristol, UK

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