St. Mary's NoVA is turning 7! We will be celebrating on April 22, 2012. Very Rev. M S John Ramban, current Warden of Orthodox Theological Seminary and former Vicar of St. Thomas Silver Spring Church, is the Chief Guest. There will be a short program after Holy Qurbana. Please come and be a part of this momentous occasion.

Easter Sunday Morning Prayer and Holy Qurbana will begin at 8:15am at Clifton Town Center. All are requested to reach the church by 8:30am to hear the glorious proclamation of the resurrection of our Lord. Easter Lunch and a short program will be held after Holy Qurbana.

Click here for Holy Week schedule

The Holy Saturday Morning Prayer and Holy Qurbana will begin at 10:00am at Clifton Town Center. Please give the names of all faithful departed by 10pm Friday. Evening Prayer will be conducted at 6:30pm at the home of Mammen Varghese and Molly.

The Good Friday Service will begin at 8:15am at Clifton Town Center. Traditional kanji will be served after the service. Evening Prayer will also be conducted at Clifton at 4pm.

The Evening Prayer will begin at 7pm at the home of Jame George and Jyotsana.

The Evening Prayer will begin at 6pm at Clifton Town Center, followed by Pesaha Qurbana. All are requested to prepare for Holy Qurbana by fasting from 2pm. Holy Confession will be available from 5-6pm.

The Evening Prayer will begin at 7pm at the home of Justin Mathews and Sheela.

The Evening Prayer will begin at 7pm at the home of Thomas Jacob (Rajesh) and Sanju.

The Palm Sunday Service will begin at 8:15am at Clifton Town Center. Evening Prayer will begin at 6:30pm at the home of Eldo Varghese and Jisha.

The Parish had its annual Lenten Retreat on Saturday, March 3 from 2-5pm. The Retreat Leader was Rev. Fr. Alexander Kurien. Approximately 50 individuals attended the retreat, which was followed by Holy Confession and refreshments.

The Parish mourns the loss of young Julia Samuel, the six-year old daughter of Sunil Samuel and Sibi of St Gregorios Orthodox Church, Silver Spring, MD. She had been battling leukemia for a long time. Achen and all the members of St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church of NoVA express their deepest condolences and prayers to the grieving family during this difficult time. May Almighty God shower them with strength.

The Great Lent begins for 50 days until Easter Day. All are requested to strictly observe the Great Lent by abstaining from meat, fish, and dairy products to the best of your ability. The theme for this year's Lent is "For all that Christ has done for me, what can I offer Him?" Readings for each day of Great Lent will be emailed.

The Parish conducted Shub'kono Service (Service of Reconciliation) as a premise to Great Lent.

The parish participated in the Nineveh 3-day Lent.

The Parish celebrated Epiphany (Danaha) on January 8.

The Parish rang in the New Year with Holy Qurbana on Sunday, January 1. The new 2012 Managing Committee took charge that day as well. Blessings for a healthy, safe, and prosperous New Year to all!

The Parish celebrated Christmas on December 25. Following the Night Prayers (Rathri/Lilio), the fire service occurred, burning the palm leaves and everyone went around the fire to place a piece of incense in the fire. Then followed the Sleeba Akhosham. Morning Prayer began shortly therafter, followed by Holy Qurbana. After Holy Qurbana, the caroling group sang for the members we were not able to visit and the Sunday School presented a short program. Secret Santa Christmas gifts were distributed to all children. A sumptuous Kerala lunch was served to end the day. May the blessings of Christmas and the Christ-child be with all of you throughout 2012.

The Parish Assembly of St. Mary's met on Sunday, December 4 following Holy Qurbana. With the current revision of the Malankara Constitution to permit women participation in the Assembly and Managing Committee, the Assembly nominated three women and three men to the 2012 Managing Committee, pending approval by the Diocesan Metropolitan. We pray that the Holy Spirit will be with the new committee as they lead the activities of the parish in 2012.

The Sunday School presented a skit "Away With the Manger" at the annual ECKC Christmas program. We thank all the participants and parents who took time to help with the practices and transportation.

Christmas caroling began at Achen's house in Baltimore on November 26 and worked its way around Maryland and Tyson's Corner. We raised $1500 the first day! Caroling throughout Northern Virginia and Fredericksburg will continue each weekend throughout December. If anyone would like to be visited, please contact Shiju Chacko or Jame George.

The annual parish Thanksgiving Dinner and Family Night occurred on Friday, November 25 from 5-9pm at the Chantilly Government Center. After Evening Prayer, there was a talent show by children of the parish. Afterward, there was a game of Bible Jeopardy, with one male adult, one female adult, and one youth competing for the audience. After 30 questions, the youth prevailed. There was a scrumptuous potluck meal after the program and there was plenty of fun, food, and fellowship. We are truly blessed and thank God for all His blessings in our personal and parish life.

The parish celebrated the feast of St. Gregorios on Sunday, November 6. After Holy Qurbana and Intercessory Prayers to St. Gregorios, the Sunday School conducted a short program, including a Powerpoint presentation on the life of St. Gregorios, followed by a song.

About 50 adults and kids travelled by bus to Lancaster, PA to see the biblical play "Joseph". Everyone really enjoyed the show and bus ride!

Our new Sunday School year commences this Sunday. If you have not yet registered, please contact Merin or Sheela as soon as possible. We pray for a year of spiritual knowledge and growth for all our children over the coming year.

We celebrated our annual Perunal on Sunday, September 11. H.G. Alexios Mar Eusebius, Metropolitan of South-West America Diocese, was the Chief Guest and gave a wonderful, inspiring message about St. Mary during Holy Qurbana and during the Evening Convention. After Holy Qurbana, there was Intercessory Prayers to St. Mary, Perunal festivities, and Onam Lunch. It was a blessed day!

We had our Sunday School Anniversary on Sunday, September 4. There were variety programs from the students and awards for each class. Ms. Ceena Varghese, MTh was the guest speaker and really encouraged the kids.

As a result of the movement of Hurricane Irene through the Mid-Atlantic and projected flooding, downed trees, and power loss, the Prayer Meeting at Mathew and Shiney's house and Holy Qurbana on Sunday have been cancelled. Plase be safe during this dangerous storm!

We will be hosting Vacation Bible School in Virginia on August 18-19 at our current worship location in Clifton. Please contact Merin or Sheela to register.

The members of St. Mary's recognized all Fathers and the 2011 graduates (Mariam Thomas, Jacob George, Mammen Mathew, and Thomas Chennikara). Special prayers and speeches were delivered on the occassion by Achen and various members. We congratulate all the gradutes and pray for God's blessings and direction in their future. We also pray for all Fathers that God would continue to guide and direct each one.

The newly-enthroned Diocesan Metropolitan for Northeast America, HG Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, visited St. Thomas Damascus Church over the weekend of June 11-12. To welcome him appropriately, St. Thasom Damascus sponsored a public meeting after Evening Prayer. A number of visiting archpriests, priests, and community members spoke on the occasion. Representing St. Mary's was our Vicar, Fr. George Mathew, and our Secretary, Anil John, and Trustee, Roy Punnoose. Manoj Varghese, as Area MGOCSM leader, also spoke on the occassion.

St. Mary's NoVA had its annual picnic on Saturday, June 4 and it was a really wonderful event. More than 75 people attended and there was plenty of good food, games, and fun for everyone!

In celebration of Mother's Day, the members of St. Mary's presented roses to all the mothers. In his message, Achen also spoke about the love of a mother as seen in 1 Cor 13. We appreciate all our mothers have done and do each day. May God bless all mothers on Mother's Day!

St. Mary's celebrated its 6th Anniversary on Sunday, May 1, 2011. Fr. Dr. P.C. Thomas of St. Thomas Orthodox Theological Seminary, Nagpur, celebrated Holy Qurbana. It was six years ago on New Sunday that the congregation was established. Though there have been ups and downs, normal for any new organization, the parish has been steadily improving and atracting new members. All glory to God for His continued grace and mercy that is being showered upon this parish!

Palm Sunday service will begin at 8:15am on April 17, 2011. Fr. Philipose Sakharia (Holy Trinity Monastery, Ranni) will be the chief celebrant. There will be evening prayer each night during the Holy Week. Please see the Holy Week Schedule for more information. Have a blessed Holy Week!

Click here to view schedule.

The Vicar and members of St Mary's Indian Orthodox Church of Northern Virginia offer our deepest condolences and prayers for the families affected by the devastation in Japan. Our parish is in the midst of fundraising efforts to donate whatever we can to help in the relief efforts. Please continue to remember the many families who have lost everything and are visible to the whole world. May God have mercy on them and allow us to be merciful and compassionate!

We had our Annual Retreat on Saturday, March 12, 2010. Fr. George Panackamattom, a senior priest from Niranam Diocese and father of Fr. Laby George, was the guest speaker. Achen spoke on the importance of repentance, confession, fasting, prayer, and charity during Great Lent. Achen conducted Holy Qurbana on Sunday March 13 as well. Guests from neighboring parishes also attended and appreciated the Retreat.

The Fifty day Great Lent begins on Monday, March 7. Pray for real renewal and transformation during this time of fasting, repentance, and union with God. A blessed fast to all.

As we begin the Great Lent, it is important to have the spirit of humility and forgiveness. We will conduct parts of the Shub'kono Service this Sunday. The hallmarks of this service is asking for forgiveness from one another for anything that has been said or done that may have affected our relationship with one another. Everyone is requested to come and participate in this service of Reconciliation as we commence the Great Lent season on Monday, March 7.

By the grace of Almighty God, Danny Santhosh and David Alexander were given permission to serve in the Holy Madbaha by the Vicar, Fr. George C Mathew. In his message to the youth and the congregation, Achen reminded everyone that serving at the Holy Altar is a great calling and privilege that must be taken seriously, for it is fire and can burn those who fail to give the proper respect and attention. Achen also reminded all acolytes that they are called and set apart from the rest of the congregation. Thus, their rightful place during every worship service is in the altar. The members of St. Mary's congratulates Danny and David and pray for them as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

Click here to view slideshow.

There will be a General Body meeting on Sunday, February 13, 2010 after Holy Qurbana. The main agenda items are to present and pass the 2010 Annual Report, 2010 Accounts, and 2011 Budget. All families are encouraged to attend the General Body meeting.

Ten youngsters over the age of 12 came forward to re-dedicate themselves to God and renew their baptismal promise. Congratulations to Maria Thomas, Mammen Mathew, Rayma Kochakkan, Julin Justin, Christine Alexander, John George, Elza Thomas, Kurien Thomas, Danny Santhosh, and David Alexander. We will have this service every year for those turning twelve.

Due to the weather conditions, the prayer meeting for Jan 29 has been cancelled. Holy Qurbana will be conducted as previously announced on Sunday, Jan 30.

Holy Qurbana and Danaha (Epiphany) Service was celebrated on Sunday, January 9, 2011 at Clifton Town Center. Morning Prayer will begin at 8am, Holy Qurbana at 8:45am, and Danaha Service at 9:45am. May the blessings of Danaha be with us all in the New Year.

The Vicar and members of St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church of Northern Virginia wish everyone a happy, healthy, prosperous, and spiritual 2011! A new year brings with it new possibilities and chances. Make the most of the new year by being with Christ and being in Christ! He will show you the unimaginable! May God bless everyone in 2011!

Holy Qurbana will be conducted on New Year's Eve, Friday, December 31, 2010, from 6-9pm at Clifton Town Center. Join us as we thank God for all His blessings in 2010 and pray for the coming year to be a year of blessings, joy, love, and peace.

Due to the predicted inclement weather and snow accumulations, services are cancelled for Sunday, December 26, 2010. We will have our next service on New Year's Eve, Friday, December 31, 2010, from 6-9pm at Clifton Town Center.

Christmas Eve Service and Holy Qurbana will be conducted on Friday, December 24, 2010 from 6-9pm at Clifton Town Center. Please join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior.

The 2010 ECKC Christmas Program was held at Seventh Day Adventist Church, Silver Spring, MD on December 4, 2010 at 3:00pm.

Our choir performed two songs. Watch videos of first and second songs here.

St. Mary's NoVA Thanksgiving Family Night was held on Friday, November 26, 2010 at Chantilly Government Center from 5-11pm. Families got together for an evening of fun, food, and fellowship with games and a talent show.

View photos here.

H.H. Baselius Mar Thoma Didymus I, Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan, has relinquished his authority as head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, to the Catholicos Designate, H. B. Paulose Mar Milithios. The Enthronement Service took place on Monday, November 1, 2010 at 6 am at Parumala Church in the presence of clergy and thousands of faithful. For more information on our new Catholicos, please click here.

The members of St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church of Northern Virginia congratulate our new Catholicos and pledge our solidarity. We humbly pray for Almighty God to shower him with His precious gifts of wisdom, discernment, understanding, and love to faithfully shepherd and guide the Holy Church in the years to come. May God grant him many years.

Fr. George C. Mathew Jr. (Benny Achen) has been appointed as the new Vicar of St. Mary's NoVA. Achen will celebrate his first Holy Qurbana as Vicar on May 2nd.

We take this opportunity to congratulate Achen and welcome him and his family to our parish.

Click here for related diocesan announcement. Pics of Achen's first Qurbana at St. Mary's.

OVBS (Orthodox Vacation Bible School) 2009 was held on 27th June (Sat) at Reston Government Center.

The theme for this year was 'The LORD is near to all who call upon Him'.

Click here for slide show (requires Flash Player 9.0)

By the grace and mercy of Almighty God, St. Mary's NoVA has received Parish Status from the Diocesan Metropolitan, HG Mathews Mar Barnabas. Rev. Fr. Joshua John has been appointed Vicar. We thank God for His goodness.

2008 OVBS (Orthodox Vacation Bible School) was held on 16th August (Sat) at Reston Government Center.

The theme for this year was 'God Who Heals'.

A day of Bible lessons for kids through classes, music, and fun filled games and activities

Click here for slide show (requires Flash Player 9.0)

Our annual picnic 2008 was at Bull Run Park on June 14th (Sat).

Families got together for a day full of fun, food, and games in the summer sun.

Click here for pictures.

With deep sorrow we announce the passing of our beloved senior metropolitan H G Dr Thomas Mar Makarios.

His Grace entered his eternal rest at 11 am (GMT) on 23rd February 2008 at the New Castle General Hospital (UK) where H G had been admitted with multiple injuries after a serious car crash on January 5th.

We at St. Mary's NoVA are blessed to have had Thirumeni visit our parish and celebrate Holy Eucharist twice in 2007. We bow our heads in the blessed memory of this pioneer of Indian Orthodox faith in the western hemisphere.

Interring will take place at Devalokom, Kottayam.

The third annual Perunal of St. Mary's NoVA was celebrated on September 9th (Sun) in connection with the Festival of Nativity of St. Mary.

H G Dr Yuhanon Mar Milithos was chief celebrant.

Rev. Dr. Daniel Thomas has been appointed as Vicar of St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church, Northern VA with effect from July 1st, 2007. Achen celebrated his first Qurbana as Vicar on July 8th.

Read Achen's sermons on our Resources page.

His Grace Mathews Mar Severios, Metropolitan of the Kandanad Diocese celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary's NoVA on June 17th.

H G joined the congregation in Fathers' Day celebrations.

Easter 2007 was celebrated at the Landings Community Center, Burke. Rev. Fr. M. M. Zachariah was the chief celebrant.

Earlier Achen led the Passion Week services also.

Click here to view the slide show. (Flash Player 9.0 required. Download it from here.)

On January 28th Senior Metropolitan H G Dr Thomas Mar Makarios celebrates Holy Qurbana assisted by Rev Fr Cyril Davy at Clifton Town Hall. The congregation also commemorated the first death anniversary of late Catholicos H H Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews II.

His Grace Mathews Mar Barnabas, Senior Metropolitan of American Diocese celebrated Holy Qurbana at Vienna Community Center on December 10th.

His Grace Zachariah Mar Theophilos, Metropolitan of the Malabar Diocese celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary's NoVA on August 13th.

H G celebrated Holy Qurbana on the Festival of Assumption of St. Mary on August 15th (Tue) at Chantilly Government Center.

On May 28th (Sunday) His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, Assistant Metropolitan of the American Diocese celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary's NoVA.

This was H G's first visit to our congregation.

Click Here to view photo album.

Our first Easter was celebrated at the Landings Community Center, Burke. Rev. Fr. M. T. Kurian was the chief celebrant.

Click here to view pictures.

It is with immense pleasure and gratitude we are celebrating our first anniversary.

When we started our mission of reaching out to the Indian Orthodox believers in and around Northern Virginia with our first Holy Qurbana on 3rd April 2005, none of us had the faintest idea about what we were in for. We took each step in faith and when we look back, we realize how graciously God carried us through the past year. We progressed from one service per month to services on all Sundays starting January 2006.

We are humbled by the divine guidance and provision we received all the way. We take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our well wishers for their prayers and support - especially our beloved Thirumenis and Achens from all over the US who conducted Holy Qurbana for us in the past year.

With great grief we announce the passing of His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II, former Catholicos of the East, Malankara Metropolitan, and 89th successor to the Holy Apostolic Throne of St. Thomas. He was 92. He led the Malankara (Indian) Orthodox Church from 1991 until October 2005 when he stepped down due to old age and ill health. The demise came at 5:10 p.m. (IST) at Devalokam Aramana, Kottayam on January 26th. Interring will take place at Mount Horeb Monastery Chapel at Shastamkotta on Saturday, January 28th.

We, at St. Mary's NoVA, bow our heads in the blessed memory of our departed shepherd and join the millions of sorrowful fellow believers around the globe in paying our homage and praying that he enters his rest in the abode of saints.

St. Mary's Indian Orthodox Church of Northern Virginia is the first and currently the only Indian Orthodox Church in Virginia state.

Our Inaugural Holy Qurbana was celebrated on April 3rd, 2005 Sunday at Wakefield Chapel, Fairfax, VA. Rev. Fr. Thampan Varghese (Manager, American Diocese Office, NY) was the chief celebrant.

Wakefield Chapel, a quaint 19th century Chapel, was chosen considering its location in the heart of Northern Virginia, its rich heritage reflecting the Christian experience of another sect of immigrants to this Country, and its stunning resemblance to historical small town churches that many of us experienced in our childhood.