2013 Perunal celebrated at St Gregorios Houston
Perunal at St Gregorios Houston
The annual Perunnal celebrations of St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, Houston was held between Sunday, October 27 and Sunday November 3, 2013. The program this year was led by H.G Dr. Yuhanon Mar Dioscoros Metropolitan of the Chennai Diocese & Dn. Daniel Dennis Mathai. We were blessed to have Rev Fr C O Vargis join us right from the beginning of this year’s Perunnal celebrations..
The celebrations kicked off with the hoisting the flag on October 27 after Holy Qurbana. During the week, Holy Qurbana was conducted every evening followed by intercessory prayers.
On Friday, the celebrations kicked into high gear with the arrival of Thirumeni. Thirumeni was received by our Vicar Rev Fr. P.M. Cheriyan, Rev Fr C O Vargis, Semassen along with the acolytes and members of the church. Following Evening Prayer, Semassen delivered a message. The church choir provided musical support throughout the weekend programs.
Saturday began with Holy Qurbana by our own Cheriyan Achen assisted by Daniel Semassen, followed by a retreat. Thirumeni led a session for the parents and Semassen a parallel session for the younger generation. Thirumeni held the congregation spell bound for two hours delivering a thought provoking message laced with his characteristic sense of humor. Semassen spoke passionately about the meaning of the Perunal. Evening prayer was followed by a message from Thirumeni.
Holy Qurbana on Sunday also marked the beginning of the new liturgical year - Koodhosh Eetho celebrating the Sanctification of the Church. The church was packed even before Morning Prayer started. We were fortunate to have many members from our sister parishes in Houston. At the beginning of Holy Qurbana, Thirumeni led the ceremony blessing two new entrants to serve at the altar. A well-organized “Raasa” around the church, ensued after Holy Qurbana. The Liturgy concluded with a beautiful Apostolic Blessing from Thirumeni. Everyone joined for lunch at the Parish Hall afterwards. This year’s Perunnal was truly a divine experience for all of us.
Article by:
Rohith Cherian, MGOCSM Member,
St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, Houston