The 17th MTVEA Diocesan Conference, hosted by Western Region MTVEA. LAt Arizona Grand Resort and Spa–Phoenix. The theme of the conference based on
Gods Mission In A Challenging World {Deuteronomy31:08}, Enthusiastic participation of over 450 participants fromall across the North American Diocese made this conference a truly blessed and spiritually satisfying experience for everyone. The conference commenced on July 11th Thursday-2024 to July 14th Sunday 2024 with a colorful inaugural program. Praise and worship service conducted by various regions on each days. Conference president Rev.Geevarghese Kochummen welcomed all the leaders & guests. After the inaugural address by the Rt.Rev.Dr.Abraham Mar Paulos Diocesan Episcopa, the conference was formally began. Present at the inaugural session were the main leaders of the conference Rt. Rev. Dr.GregoriosMar Stephanos Episcopa, Rev.Dr.Prakash K George, andDiocesan MTVEA Council members. MTVEA Diocesan Council members extended the felicitations. During the inaugural talk, Rt.Rev.Dr.Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa emphasized that the real mission is related to the Lord and the Lord’s mission won’t change. Thirumeni ultimately explained to the people that we are part of the Lord’s Mission.
Around noon of Thursday, registration began and the eveningsession began with the Choir team’s songs. The theme presentation talk was led by Rt.Rev.Dr.Gregorios Mar StephanosEpiscopa. During Thirumeni’s talk, Stephanos Episcopamentions three key points. 1-Are we changing our attitude, 2- Is there any Christ presence in our faith journey, 3- Look to the face to Jesus. Theme Song and Theme skit were then sang and performed.
During the Bible study session, Rev.Dr.Prakash K George mainly emphasized that God’s Mission is a movement, and it is a movement of caring and sharing, and we should always walk along with God.
During the various talks, bible studies, the speakers analyzed the theme wonderfully and from all different theological angles and perspectives. Group discussions that followed enabled participants to debate relevant questions and collectively find answers. The youth praise and worship session also helped this conference be a remarkable one. Worth mentioning, the youth voluntary team did a marvelous job as well. All youth team members received a great appreciation from the Episcopa.
Along with the Diocesan conference, a special centenary celebration occurred where WR.MTVEA honored the seniors above 74 with Ponnada. There were 59 seniors honored during this session. A Special Grand Canyon trip via the valleys of the Red Rock Mountains was also organized by the Conference committee.
The conference ended with the Holy Qurbana service led by Rt.Rev.Dr. Gregorios Mar Stephanos Episcopa. After the concluding talk, it was announced that the 18th Diocesan MTVEA 2026 conference will be hosted by South West Region Center –A, and in 2028 the 19th Diocesan MTVEA Conference will be hosted by MIDWEST Region. The conference was a blessed occasion for many families to come together in Christian fellowship, to reflect upon our faith and heritage, share our common experiences, and through it all, strengthen our relationship with God and with each other.
All praise and glory belongs to God for His mercies and blessings.
Rajesh Mathew,
{MTVEA-Diocesan Secretary & Conference General Convener}
[email protected]