Grand Reception to HH Didymus Bava in New York

From: IndianOrthodox@yahoogroups.com

Grand Reception to H. H. Didymus Bava

The American Diocese (of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church) extended a
magnificent reception to its spiritual Father today in Queens, NY. This is
the first visit of Bava after his enthronement as the Supreme Head of the
Indian Orthodox Church. Among those who felicitated HH were the bishops of
sister Churches including Armenian Orthodox Church, Orthodox Church of
America, the Catholic Church, The Korean Church and the Mar Thoma Church.
The Secretary of the National Council of Churches in the US welcomed Bava to
the US on behalf of all member Churches of the NCC. Several Senators from
NY, HG Dr. Thomas Mar Makarios, the first Metropolitan of the American
Diocese, HG Mathews Mar Barnabas, the current Metropolitan of the American
Diocese, were among those who felicitated HH. Several speakers spoke briefly
about Bava Thirumeni's monastic upbringing, prayerful life and his
earnestness in bringing administrative discipline and reforms.

During his speech, HH Bava expressed his appreciation and thanks to the
faithful. He urged everyone to give utmost importance to a prayerful life.
Prayer is the air of the soul, HH said.

HG Zachariah Mar Nickolovos, the Asst. Metropolitan of the American Diocese
welcomed the gathering. Rev. Fr. K. G. Philipose, the Diocesan Secretary
expressed Vote of Thanks.

You can read more about Bava's US visit by clicking on the following URL:
http://www.orthodoxherald.com

-Moderators, ICON
June 17,2006