St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church in Canberra holds the distinction of being the first parish of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in the Australian Capital Territory. Established from humble beginnings in 2005, this church has grown into a vibrant community that honors its deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage. Over the years, the parish has evolved from a small congregation gathering in homes to a formally recognized and legally incorporated entity. Guided by dedicated clergy and supported by the unwavering devotion of its members, St. Gregorios Church continues to serve as a spiritual home for the Orthodox faithful in Canberra, fostering a strong sense of community, worship, and service.
"Prayer is the inspiration of childhood, the refuge of youth and peace during old age."
"Whatever is due to the Church must be given forthwith. If your mind is pure in that matter, your house will also be pure. If in such things you think of any gain or revenue, then you will lose that ten-fold"
"Forgiveness is strength. It gives a person a good name. It is the distinguishing feature of righteous people"
A handful of faithful members of the Church started as a congregation in Canberra.
The congregation was named after St Thomas Indian Orthodox Congregation and was led by Vicar, Rev Fr. Thomas Varghese of St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Cathedral Sydney.
Canberra was blessed to have Rev Fr. Varghese Manaiyamprayil move to Canberra with his family from the UK. The Diocese Metropolitan, His Grace Dr. Youhanon Mar Diascoros, appointed Rev Fr. Varghese Manaiyamprayil as the Assistant Vicar for the parish. With more families migrating to the Territory and in the presence of a local Priest, the Holy Qurbana was celebrated twice a month.
Eleven members met at a member’s house to brainstorm on establishing a parish of the Malankara Orthodox Church in the Australian Capital Territory. They requested the Vicar Rev Fr. Thomas Varghese to guide them spiritually.
The draft constitution for the new parish was presented to the members for approval.
His Grace Dr. Youhanon Mar Diascoros visited Canberra for a Clergy Meeting and addressed a meeting with all members. The Vicar and the members submitted a request for a Parish in Canberra.
His Grace Dr. Youhanon Mar Diascoros reviewed the constitution and budget plan and handed down the Pastoral Directive (Kalpana) declaring the Parish to be named after the Patron Saint ‘Gregorios’.
During the feast of Saint ‘Gregorios,’ the Kalpana was read out by late Very Rev Fr. K I Phillip Ramban. The first Holy Qurbana was conducted, and the first Harvest Festival was held.
The first Annual General Body meeting was held, and the first formal Managing Committee consisting of 8 members was elected.
The Parish became a legal entity through its formal incorporation in Canberra as a Non-Profit Organization with the Office of Regulatory Services.
Rev Fr. Benny David from St Mary’s Indian Orthodox Church, Epping, accepted the charge to lead the Parish as the next Vicar.
Rev Fr. Thomas Varghese was reassigned as Vicar after the tenure of Rev Fr. Benny David. The community grew to 35 families and worked hard to achieve the next step of having a sole Priest for the church in Canberra.
His Grace Dr. Youhanon Mar Diascoros appointed Rev Fr. Bibin Daniel as Vicar for St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church Canberra.
The church building committee acquired a patent brand ‘Taste of India’ and conducted its first fundraising event.
Rev Fr. Bibin Daniel completed his tenure. His Grace Dr. Youhanon Mar Diascoros appointed Rev Fr. Sandeep S Mathews as the next vicar.
"The nations shall see your righteousness, and all the kings your glory, and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give." (Isaiah 62:2) Over a century has passed since St. Gregorios of Parumala, the great saint of Malankara, entered his heavenly abode, yet his legacy remains vivid in the hearts of believers. The name Gregorios, meaning "vigilant" or "alert," was fittingly chosen by God for St. Gregorios, who continues to watch over and pray for us. His life serves as a powerful example in a world consumed by materialism, showing us how to live with purpose and faith. Parumala Kochu Thirumeni was a precious gift to the Malankara Sabha, growing in wisdom and grace from a young age.
Thirumeni’s unwavering faith and selfless life earned him respect from all, regardless of caste or creed. He was not only devoted to prayer but also a strong advocate for social reform, tirelessly working to uplift the poor and marginalized. His opposition to casteism and belief in the equality of all before God were revolutionary. Thirumeni's actions, rooted in love for God and humanity, set a model for us to follow. Celebrating the anniversary of St. Gregorios of Parumala is a testament to our faith and gratitude.
St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, Canberra, is marking its 10th anniversary—a significant milestone reflecting God’s guidance. The journey has been filled with challenges, but it has also brought countless blessings and memories. Over the past decade, SGIOC has grown from a small seedling to a flourishing community, making meaningful contributions to society. As the SGIOC family moves closer to realizing the dream of having their own church, we pray that this dream comes true, fortified by the prayers and intercession of Parumala Thirumeni.
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Ex Officio
SABHA Managing Committee Member
Madras Diocesan Council Member
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