My Maramon :Personal Reflections

As I reflect on my experiences at the Maramon Convention, especially as someone who was born and brought up in the United States, I am reminded that my opportunities to attend were limited. Yet throughout my ministerial formation, the Maramon Convention played a profound role in shaping my spiritual journey, my understanding of the Church, and my appreciation for the heritage of the Mar Thoma community. My early memories of Maramon were not frequent, but each encounter was meaningful and left a lasting impression on my heart.

My first visit to the Maramon Convention was as a small boy in 1997, during a family trip to India. I remember my elder cousin and I walking across what looked like a sandy beach, unaware of what awaited us. Suddenly, we stepped into a massive tent right in front of the stage where the Word of God was being proclaimed. The scene was overwhelming for a young child, yet something about it stayed with me. Although the memory is somewhat vague, it remains a cherished moment because it introduced me to the magnitude and spiritual significance of Maramon long before I understood its history and impact.

Years later, when I was sent to India by the Church for seminary training, the Maramon Convention became a regular and essential part of my ministerial formation. During the initial phase of my training, I, along with Arun Varghese Achen, had the privilege of being guided by the then Metropolitan, the Late Lamented Joseph Mar Thoma. For two months, during January and February 2013, we were able to observe firsthand how deeply invested Thirumeni was in the planning and preparation of the Maramon Convention. His mind, energy, and passion during those weeks were centered almost entirely on the convention. It was clear that he lived, breathed, and worked tirelessly for the success of the convention.

One of the unforgettable experiences during that time was accompanying Thirumeni to inaugurate the construction of the temporary bridge that leads to the sand beds. We also participated in the prayerful moment when the first pillar of the structure known as the panthal was placed. These experiences were not simply ceremonial. They were powerful reminders of the incredible effort, prayer, and dedication that go into creating a space where thousands gather to hear the Gospel.

One particular memory stands out vividly in my mind. On an ordinary day, while traveling with Thirumeni, he asked his driver to take us to the Maramon Convention grounds. When we arrived, he stepped out of the vehicle, took his cane, and asked me to walk with him. Holding my hand, he guided me through every part of the vast grounds. We walked from one end to the other, up and down the sandy paths, exploring corners that many rarely notice. The heat was intense, and the humidity made the walk even more challenging. Yet Thirumeni pressed forward with energy and determination. At one point, noticing the exhaustion on my face, he asked with a warm laugh, “American kaaran sheeneecho?” I quickly replied, “No, not at all, I am fine,” though he clearly saw how sweaty and tired I was. That walk was not merely a tour. It was an opportunity for me to witness the depth of his heart for the convention. His love for Maramon was not administrative. It was spiritual, pastoral, and deeply personal.  Along with this, Coorilos Thirumeni took Arun Achen and I to Kadavil Malika, where it all began. It was nice to see the historic site firsthand as Thirumeni was walking us through the history of it.

Following this early period of training, as I transitioned fully into seminary life, the Maramon Convention became an annual experience for me. Every year, from Wednesday to Sunday, the seminarians participated in the vibrant life of the convention. We were assigned duties ranging from working at fundraising stations to serving food at the clergy shed. These tasks were demanding because the environment of Maramon is fast paced, intense, and filled with constant activity. There was no room for idleness. Through these responsibilities, I gained a deep appreciation for the evangelists, missionary Achens, and countless volunteers who labor year after year to make the mission possible.

One of the unique privileges I had was sleeping overnight on the sand beds, something not everyone gets to experience. Those nights remain some of my most treasured memories. There, under the open sky, I witnessed genuine fellowship among people who gathered in simplicity, humility, and joy. Many stayed awake throughout the night in long conversations, sharing stories, singing, praying, or simply enjoying one another’s presence. It was a vivid reminder that Maramon is not only about the sermons or the sessions. It is also a reminder of the beauty of simple living and the richness of Christian fellowship. It points us away from our personal comforts and invites us into a deeper sense of community and communion.

The heart of the Maramon Convention is witnessed each day as people from various denominations, backgrounds, and regions arrive in large numbers to hear the Gospel. Regardless of age, thousands gather even in the scorching heat. Many sit on the ground for long hours when chairs are unavailable. Their desire to hear the Word of God surpasses physical discomfort. The prayers, the singing, the giving, and the attentive listening all testify to a spiritual hunger that moves beyond cultural differences and personal limitations.

During my years attending Maramon, I also had the blessing of meeting several of the invited speakers, including those from other countries. Many of them expressed how deeply moved they were by the beauty of Kerala and the devotion of the people. I vividly remember meeting Rev. Leonard Sweet and Rev. Cleophus LaRue. Rev. LaRue was especially captivating as he often began his messages by singing while playing the piano. His style flowed from the traditions of African American worship, a style I was familiar with, but for many local attendees in Kerala, it was an unforgettable and inspiring experience.Of course, I cannot forget the time when the Patriarch of Antioch, Moran Mor Ignatius Aprem II came in 2015, what a crowd, I was part of the human barrier to protect Thirumeni while people were pushing and shoving just to get closer to him.

Over the course of my life, I have attended the Maramon Convention eight times, and each visit offered new insights, spiritual growth, and memorable experiences. As a Marthomite, I am deeply proud that our Church hosts such a powerful gathering every year. The Maramon Convention stands as one of the most significant Christian assemblies in all of Asia, a testimony to the continued work of the Holy Spirit through our community.

As we look toward the 2026 Maramon Convention, let us pray that everyone who attends will be renewed, strengthened, and inspired to carry the Good News into the world God has entrusted to them. May this legacy of faith continue to shine brightly for generations to come.