St. Thomas Community Marks Onam by Serving Autorickshaw Drivers and Workers

This year, the St. Thomas community at the World Church Headquarters celebrated Onam in a special and meaningful way by honoring the autorickshaw and taxi drivers, loading workers, and their families from the surrounding neighborhood who faithfully serve the society.

The celebrations were inaugurated by His Holiness Moran Mor Dr. Samuel Theophilus Metropolitan. In his inaugural address, His Holiness highlighted the significance of Onam, stating that the festival, celebrated by Malayalees across the globe irrespective of caste and religion, carries a profound message of unity and brotherhood.

The program commenced with a prayer led by Fr. Dr. Daniel Johnson, Secretary General of Believers Eastern Church, invoking God’s blessings for the occasion. Rev. Fr. Sijo Panthappallil, P.R.O. and official spokesperson of the Church, delivered the presidential address, while H.E. Joshua Mor Barnabas Episcopa, Archbishop of the Kolkata & Jorhat Archdioceses, graced the event with his presence. On this occasion, ration kits were distributed to the drivers and their families, extending the joy of Onam beyond the festive meal.

This was followed by the traditional Onam sadya, wherein priests, deacons, and members of the community came together to lovingly serve the Onam sadya to the special guests and invited families from the neighborhood, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness.

This celebration beautifully captured the true spirit of Onam—spreading love, unity, and togetherness—and reflected the Church’s continued commitment to serving and uplifting the community.