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.

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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.