Dearly beloved in Christ,

"I will extol my Lord at all times and His praise shall continually be on my mouth" (Psalms 34:1)  

Let's also join with the Psalmist and praise our Almighty God for all the marvelous things He has done for us. It is with profound happiness and gratitude that I would like to inform you that our parish has been chosen for the 'BEST PARISH AWARD' by the Diocese for excellence in all fields. It's recognition of our efforts, co-operation, unity and love in carrying out His mission entrusted to us. It makes us more responsible in the days ahead because recognition and privileges comes with more responsibility. Our Orlando Congregation has qualified for 'THE SAMPOORNA MESSENGER AWARD'. We are thankful to our Savior who made these possible.

During the last quarter, the Spring Retreat conducted by Sunday school was meaningful to everyone who participated in it. Special thanks to Mrs. Reena Philip, who led the retreat. Sunday school annual and diocesan exams were conducted. Congrats to all participants and winners, especially those students who got high score and qualified for the Diocesan awards. The spring cleaning picnic organized by Yuvajana Sakhyam was a well organized and successful event. I am glad to mention that this year's VBS was very meaningful to everyone who participated in it and dedicated themselves to become the heroes of His word. Congrats to the VBS Hero family, especially to Shobha Jacob.

Let's thank God for our High School graduates. We wish them the very best in their future studies and an excellent career. Let's again pray for all those who are getting ready for the new academic year. Our prayer also goes to those who are travelling this summer that God be with them and make their journeys safe.

We have many programs in this quarter like the Family Conference, Regional Youth Conference etc. The most important is Sevika Sanghom national conference we are hosting. It will be held form Sept 30 - Oct 3rd. I request earnest prayers and wholehearted participation of everyone. Bible Reading during Sunday worship is assigned to each family of our parish from this quarter onwards so that each family will have an opportunity to come forward and read out His word at Sunday Services.

"Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done". May the blessings of God Almighty be with you and bless you,

July 1, 2010 T. Johnson achen
St. Mark's Mar Thoma Church
11029 Davis Road, Tampa, FL 33637
www.stmarksmtctampa.org