22nd North American Diocesan Sevika Sanghom Conference
The 22nd North American Diocesan Sevika Sanghom Conference was held from October 1 to 4, 2026, at Valley Forge Casino Resort, Pennsylvania. Hosted by the Christos Mar Thoma Church Sevika Sanghom, Philadelphia, the conference brought together approximately 500 delegates, including clergy and their families from across the Diocese of North America.
The conference was held under the theme “Women: Rooted in Christ and Routed for Mission,” focusing on the importance of faith and prayer in Christian life and the role of women in the mission of the Church.
The conference was inaugurated on Thursday, October 1, by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa. The inauguration began with a procession at 6:30 p.m. The conference featured sessions led by Rev. Sam T. Koshy, Dr. Leena K. Cherian, Mrs. Tincy Zachariah, and Dr. Betty Elsa Jacob.
Rev. Niju Thomas served as Conference President, with Mrs. Sheela Daniel as General Convenor, Mrs. Lysamma Mathew as Conference Secretary, Mrs. Lucy Philip as Treasurer, and Mrs. Laila Mathew as Accountant. They worked with the various subcommittees to coordinate the conference. Diocesan Secretary Rev. Joel Thomas and Diocesan Sevika Sanghom officials—Vice President Rev. Brazin K. Mon, Secretary Mrs. Mercy Thomas, Treasurer Mrs. Lini Mathai, and Assembly Member Mrs. Noby Byju—also contributed to the organization and conduct of the event.
Daily morning and evening worship services were led by the assigned regions. The conference choir led the congregational singing during the services.
A business session of the Diocesan Sevika Sanghom was held on Friday, October 2, from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m. During the session, the Diocesan Episcopa and the Vice President responded to questions and concerns raised by members. Small-group discussions were also held, with participants presenting their findings during the meeting.
The conference included programs for different age groups and interests. Rev. Abraham Kuruvilla led the children’s track, while Rev. Titty Yohannan led a special witnessing session featuring personal testimonies about faith and experiences of God’s grace. A talent night on Friday showcased performances by participants from various churches.
A diocesan-level essay competition was also organized in English and Malayalam, providing members with an opportunity to express their reflections on the conference theme through writing.
The conference concluded on Sunday, October 4, with the Holy Qurbana and closing ceremony. Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa served as the chief celebrant for the Holy Qurbana.
During the closing ceremony, the passing of the torch marked the transfer of hosting responsibility to Immanuel Mar Thoma Church, Houston, Texas, which will host the 23rd North American Diocesan Sevika Sanghom Conference in 2028.
The four-day gathering provided opportunities for worship, learning, discussion, and fellowship among women and families from across the diocese. It also encouraged participants to strengthen their faith and renew their commitment to serving the Church and its wider mission.