Detroit Mar Thoma Church

"Let the little children come unto me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as those" Mathew 19:14.

Our Lord has been gracious and has abundantly blessed us throughout this year. Sunday school continues to play an important role in ministering the word of God to the children of our church. A typical Sunday begins at 9:00 am with the opening worship. This common fellowship session was led by Shane Thomas, Tessy Samuel, Jeffrey Philip and other youths. Students enjoyed each others fellowship along with remembering birthdays of children. The kids are also encouraged to learn and recite memory verses during the opening worship. We currently have over 120 students in twelve classes with 26 teachers.
The Sunday school committee comprised of, Vicar, Superintendent (Thomson David), Secretary (Susan Cherian), Treasurer (K.K. George), Auditor (C.V. Samuel) and all the teachers.


Diocesan Exam 2009

The Diocesan Sunday School Exam was held on May 03, 2009. We would like to congratulate all the 29 students who participated in the examination, especially the winners, the Sunday school teachers, and the parents who helped prepare them for the examination. Sharon Thomas (Grade 7) secured A+ and received plaque from the diocese. We were also proud that some of our students received special awards and they were:
 

Vacation Bible School

VBS was held from June 15 – 20, 2009. Ruby Varghese served as the VBS director. The theme for VBS was "STUDIO GO GAME SHOW" based on Joshua 1:9.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

This year the youth group had the blessed opportunity of organizing our church’s VBS 2009. The youth group has a heart to serve this church and this was a great way to do it! This was an entire youth group effort. All of our members stepped up and were ready and willing to help in any way. Our VBS was structured with a time of worship, creative presentation, bible study, crafts, closing worship, and dinner. The verse above was the theme verse of the VBS. We truly felt God’s presence guiding us throughout the week.
The youth group worship team led an awesome time of praise and worship for the kids. Everyday the kids were filled with joy in participating in the action songs. The energy and love that our worship team had everyday was truly a reflection of God’s love for us. Our older youths took the amazing responsibility of teaching the children God’s word. Just seeing the kids’ excitement in learning was a blessing to all.
We were blessed to have individuals to help with the food and crafts, which were provided everyday. We would like to thank all those who helped set those up for us. The kids left every night with food in their stomach and great crafts to remember VBS. Each day was filled with adventure and excitement. Saturday was a warm and sunny day where the kids were able to run around outside, get some fresh air, and complete the mini-Olympics that was organized. The last day was our final Sunday program during which the kids were able to wear their VBS T-shirts (donated by our older youths) and share what they learned over the course of the week.
There were tremendous support and cooperation from the church congregation on all of the programs by either assisting with the food arrangements and/or with personal donations. Thanks to the youth group, all parents and families for their service and personal donations.

Sunday school Anniversary

The anniversary celebrations were done in two parts – Award celebrations (Aug 30) and Student Talent presentations (Sept 20). Students were recognized for best overall performance, best attendance, memory verse competition and class participation. The occasion was graced by Rev. P Chacko. For the talent day we had several performances from our students of varying natures. Rev. Shaji K Thomas blessed the occasion and talent performances of our students were outstanding.

Teachers dedication and Vijaydhina Sthothram, World Sunday school Day

Teachers dedicated themselves to Jesus Christ along with the children thanking God for being with them in the past school year and to ask HIS blessings for the New Year. The Vijaydhina Sthothram celebration was on Sept 6 and all the children took part in the special prayer. The offerings of $2700.00 received were donated to the children's ministry at the Christa Panthi Ashram, Sihora in India. We celebrated the World Sunday School Day with a special service and Sunday school took leading role in organizing the communion service on that day. Mr. Mathew Philip gave the sermon as part of the Holy communion service.

Christmas Program
The Christmas program celebrations were held on December 20, 2009. Students of all ages actively participated in the nativity program initiated and directed by Reji Alexander along with help of all the teachers. It was a musical play titled “The Shepherds, Sheep and a Savior”. Special thanks to all the children and parents for their active participation and attending the practice sessions.

Conclusion
Our appreciation to Rev. Shaji K Thomas for his leadership and advice in all the activities, Mini Kochamma for the selection of memory verses, the parents for their active participation and the entire congregation for their prayers and support. We continue to thank the teachers for their tireless commitment and dedication. May we be enabled to lead every child to Our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.

In His Service,

Thomson David
Superintendent

Sunday School

Worship

Youth