News & Event Archive
Passion Week 2025
April 2025
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India (STECI) – Greater Toronto Parish reverently observed Passion Week 2025, a sacred period dedicated to reflecting on the profound suffering, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The week's services drew the community closer to His love and grace, guided by the spiritual leadership of Rev. David P. Varghese.
Soar 2024
August 2024
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, Toronto Parish, hosted its Youth and Family Conference 2024, themed "Soar with God," from September 6 to September 8 at Countryside Camp Shalom in Cambridge, Ontario. This spiritually enriching event provided a vital opportunity for worship, fellowship, learning, and reflection, helping numerous youths and families grow closer to God. The conference featured impactful sessions and activities led by esteemed speakers, leaving the congregation uplifted and encouraged in their faith.
The conference opened with a warm welcome for Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Chacko, who delivered a powerful session on trusting God and rising above challenges through faith. Saturday's sessions included praise and worship, a message from Rev. David P. Varghese on standing strong in faith, and a dynamic session by Miss Alinta Varghese on unity and trust within families. A testimony session led by Rev. Jacob M. Chacko and a Talent Night fostered community and celebration, with children also engaged in a Vacation Bible School (VBS) throughout the conference.
The final day commenced with a Holy Communion service, a solemn time of reflection on Christ's love, followed by a closing message from Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Chacko, who encouraged everyone to continue soaring with God. The conference was a tremendous success, drawing around 120 members, including 25 from the United States, for a weekend of spiritual growth and fellowship, inspiring participants to trust in God's guidance and overcome life's challenges through faith.
Christmas Carol Service 2024
December 2024
The Christmas Carol outreach for 2024 culminated beautifully with our annual Christmas Carol Service and Holy Communion on December 23, 2024, held at the Gore Meadows Community Centre in Brampton.
Following the spiritual nourishment of the service, a General Body meeting was held, where the office bearers for 2025 were elected, marking an important step in the leadership of our parish. The day continued with a joyful fellowship lunch, fostering deeper connections among members. The afternoon was filled with various engaging activities, including spirited carol singing, entertaining skits, and delightful programs presented by our Sunday School kids, showcasing their talents and adding to the festive atmosphere. This blessed day brought everyone together in a shared celebration of faith and community.
Passion Week 2024
March 2024
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India (STECI) – Toronto Parish reverently observed Passion Week 2024, a sacred time dedicated to reflecting on the profound suffering, death, and glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. These significant services were held at 2901 Lawrence Ave E and spiritually led by Rev. David P. Varghese.
The observance included a deeply moving Good Friday Worship Service, where the congregation shared personal testimonies, reflecting on God's grace and Christ's sacrifice. The week culminated in a joyous and triumphant Easter Sunday Worship and Holy Communion, a vibrant proclamation of Jesus Christ's victory over death and a communal celebration of new life in Him. These services collectively offered a profound spiritual journey, deepening understanding and reinforcing the eternal hope found in the resurrection.
Nova Scotia Mission Trip
March 2025
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India (STECI) – Greater Toronto Parish is deeply grateful for a blessed mission trip to Nova Scotia, held from March 8-9, 2025. This divinely guided initiative brought profound spiritual nourishment and renewed hope to believers in scattered communities, strengthening their faith and fostering a deeper sense of fellowship.
On Saturday, August 8th, the team visited several homes for personal fellowship and prayer, including a special cottage prayer meeting where families gathered for worship, intercession, and encouragement. This intimate setting fostered unity and strengthened relationships.
Sunday, August 9th, featured a vibrant worship service and Holy Communion held at 1583 Beaver Bank Rd, Beaver Bank, NS. This unifying gathering included local families, students, and the mission team, creating a deep sense of shared purpose. The presence of God was strongly felt throughout the service, which concluded with joyful fellowship and a communal meal.
The mission trip profoundly impacted those involved, strengthening connections, rekindling hope, and encouraging youth and students in their faith. It was a powerful reminder of God's work in every corner, proving that even a single visit can awaken what He has planted. This trip was made possible by Rev. David P. Varghese's guidance and the dedication of all who served. The Parish hopes to continue building on this connection through virtual gatherings and future visits, living out the truth that "Where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am among them" (Matthew 18:20).
Christmas Carol Rounds 2024
December 2024
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India (STECI) – Greater Toronto Parish enthusiastically carried out its Christmas Carol outreach for 2024 on December 21 and 22. Over these two truly joyful and spirit-filled days, our dedicated carol team embarked on a heartfelt journey, visiting numerous homes and families across a wide geographical expanse.
Each visit was a blessed opportunity to share the timeless good news of Jesus Christ's birth and to proclaim a message of hope and salvation. Through cherished Christmas hymns and earnest prayers, the team brought the love of Christ directly into the homes they visited, brightening spirits and fostering a profound sense of community. The air was filled with the sounds of vibrant carols, creating memorable moments of shared faith and celebration that truly embodied the spirit of the Christmas season. This outreach was a powerful demonstration of our parish's commitment to reaching out and spreading warmth and light to our broader community.
Remembering Podiamma: Mrs. Achiamma Simon (1952-2024)
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved church member, Mrs. Achiamma Simon, affectionately known as Podiamma. She peacefully entered eternal rest on May 5, 2024, at the age of 72. Podiamma was the cherished wife of Simon George.
Podiamma was a loving mother to Simi, Sibin, and Jobin. Her greatest joy came from her children and their spouses, and her precious grandchildren: Gabrielle, Sophia, and Noah. Her home was a sanctuary of love and prayer.
While we mourn her passing, we find comfort in knowing Podiamma rests in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father. Her spirit of faith, hope, and love will continue to inspire us all.
Retreat 2023
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, Toronto Parish, held its annual three-day retreat at Countryside Camp Shalom in Cambridge, Ontario, from September 1st to 3rd, 2023. This year's retreat, themed "Stand out amongst the crowd," was a significant event for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and growth.
The retreat was blessed by the esteemed presence of Presiding Bishop Most Rev Dr. Thomas Abraham, Rev David P Varghese, Rev Dr. Joby Mathew, Mr. Gigi and Mrs Elizabeth, Rev. Koshy Mathai, and Mr. Denny M Mathai. Fifty members actively participated in the retreat sessions, engaging in a sacred space designed for deep spiritual reflection and community building.
The retreat culminated in a powerful Sunday service, including Holy Communion, where seventy members united, strengthening their bond as the body of Christ. This communal worship further deepened the spiritual impact of the retreat, leaving participants renewed and inspired by the theme.
Reflecting on a wonderful time of spiritual renewal and fellowship.