Announcements

Pastoral Letter

Pastoral Letter to the Beloved Parishioners of St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Church
15 Warrendale Court, Toronto, Canada  

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Centennial Celebration of Thomas Varughese (Kunjommachen)

A Century of Faith, Service, and Legacy

Early Life and Education:
As we joyfully celebrate the 100th birthday of Thomas Varughese—affectionately known as Kunjommachen—we reflect on a life richly blessed with purpose and service. Born on February 27, 1925, in Pullad North, Koipuram Panchayat, to Aleyamma and Mammen Varughese of the Chamathackal family, Thomas was the eldest among his siblings—Mariamma Thomas (Chittedathu, Othara), Sosamma Eapen (Neithalloor, Kalloopara), and Chacko Varughese (Toronto). Educated at the Seventh-day Adventist Residential School in Kottarakara, young Thomas developed the discipline and values that would guide his remarkable journey. Taking on family responsibilities from a young age, he became a pillar of strength and leadership.  

Family Life:  
Thomas married Mariamma John, daughter of Sosamma and Yohannan Chundakatt of Pullad. Their union was blessed with six children, thirteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, creating a legacy of love and unity. His family continues to reflect his values of faith, hard work, and service, standing as a living testament to the foundations he built with care and devotion.  

Spiritual and Community Leadership:  
A devout Christian and community leader, Kunjommachen’s spiritual journey was marked by deep commitment and service. In 1960, he was instrumental in founding a mission church in Kanjirappara, which blossomed into St. Thomas Malankara Catholic Church, Kanjirappara. He served in numerous roles—parish trustee, Sunday School headmaster, and chair of the Vincent de Paul Society—touching countless lives with his faith-driven dedication. Even after emigrating to Canada, his spiritual influence continued to inspire his family and community.  

Social Justice and Activism:  
Throughout his life, Thomas championed the cause of the marginalized and disadvantaged. In the 1970s, he co-founded the Citizen's Council of Pullad North, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting social welfare and justice. As president, he worked tirelessly to uplift the economically challenged, regardless of caste or religion, providing opportunities for education, housing, and community support.  

He also contributed to Kerala’s “Laksham Veedukal” (One Lakh Houses) program, ensuring shelter for many underprivileged families. His passion for agricultural development led him to volunteer in the Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society, while his role as vice president of the Karimpannoor Kudumbayogam strengthened community ties and preserved family heritage.  

Political Engagement: 
A strong advocate for democracy and social equity, Thomas actively supported the Indian National Congress, believing deeply in the principles of justice and fairness. His activism was rooted in a desire to create an inclusive society where everyone had an opportunity to thrive.  

A Life Well Lived – Celebrating 100 Glorious Years: 
As we honor Kunjommachen on his centennial birthday, we are filled with gratitude and admiration for a life that has profoundly impacted so many. His unwavering faith, compassionate heart, and tireless service have left an indelible mark on both his community and family.  

His journey stands as a living example of the biblical call:  
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (Isaiah 46:4)  

Centennial Wishes:
On this momentous occasion, we offer our heartfelt wishes and prayers:  

Dear Kunjommachen,  
As you celebrate 100 blessed years, we thank God for the gift of your life. Your journey of faith, love, and service has been an inspiration to all who know you. May God continue to shower you with His grace, peace, and joy. We pray that your days ahead are filled with happiness and the love of your ever-growing family. Your legacy of compassion, faith, and leadership will continue to inspire generations.  

Happy 100th Birthday!  
With love, respect, and countless blessings,  
Your loving family, friends, and well-wishers
Rev. Fr. Varghese Achanithadathil Samuel
Vicar, St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Toronto