Women have played a vital role in the life and ministry of the Christian Church from its earliest days. Throughout Christian history, women's fellowships and organizations have contributed significantly to the spiritual, social, and missionary work of the Church. In the earthly ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ, women occupied a place of special significance. Some of His most devoted followers and closest companions were women; they remained at the foot of the Cross when others had fled and were the first witnesses to His glorious resurrection. Their faithfulness, commitment, and spirit of service continue to inspire Christian women's movements across the world.
The women of the Mar Thoma Church likewise shared in the spiritual awakening and renewed vision brought about by the Reformation movement within the Church. Recognizing the important role of women in the mission and ministry of the Church, the Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom, the women's wing of the Mar Thoma Church, was formally inaugurated during the Maramon Convention in 1919 under the leadership and guidance of Abraham Mar Thoma Suffragan Metropolitan. He provided continued support, encouragement, and spiritual inspiration to the growth and development of the Sanghom.
Rooted firmly in the Christian principles of service, compassion, and evangelism, the Sevika Sanghom has faithfully carried forward its mission of spiritual nurture, charitable service, and active participation in the life and witness of the Church. The Sanghom has consistently worked among the underprivileged and needy, organized charitable initiatives and fundraising activities, and supported the Church in its spiritual and missionary endeavors. Through prayer, fellowship, service, and witness, the Sevika Sanghom continues to uphold the spirit of dedicated Christian discipleship.
Every woman of the Mar Thoma Church above the age of eighteen years is a member of the Sevika Sanghom. Today, the organization has branches in almost all parishes of the Mar Thoma Church, both in India and abroad. Each parish branch elects its own committee and office bearers from among its members. The Vicar of the parish serves as the President of the branch Sevika Sanghom and provides spiritual guidance and support to its activities. Several branches together constitute a Centre, and multiple Centres together form a Diocese, following the organizational structure of the Mar Thoma Church.
The growth and strength of the Sevika Sanghom owe much to the selfless and tireless efforts of many devoted women leaders. Among them, Mrs. Kandamma Varghese made an exceptional contribution through her more than twenty years of service as Organising Secretary. She travelled extensively, established branches in numerous parishes, and actively engaged in evangelistic ministry among both Christians and non-Christians. She later also served as the General Secretary of the Sanghom. Likewise, Dr. Mrs. Annamma George, who served as Organising Secretary for fourteen years, played a significant role in organizing centres and centre meetings. Her theological insights, leadership, and vision elevated the thinking and ministry of the women of the Sevika Sanghom in both social and spiritual spheres.
At Bethel Mar Thoma Church, New Delhi
The Bethel Mar Thoma Church Sevika Sanghom continues to play a vital role in the spiritual and fellowship life of the parish. The Sanghom meets regularly on the second and fourth Sundays after worship services, and a Sunday Cottage Fellowship is conducted once every month. These gatherings provide opportunities for Bible study, prayer, fellowship, spiritual growth, and mutual encouragement among the members.
We thank God for the faithful service and commitment of the members and leaders of the Sevika Sanghom. Through their prayers, fellowship, and dedicated ministry, the Sanghom continues to strengthen the spiritual life of the parish and bear witness to the love and service of our Lord Jesus Christ.