New Beginning: CHURCH Calendar begins today: the First Sunday of the Liturgical Year (Falls on the Last Sunday of October or the First Sunday of November). Hanuka of Jews.

Misuse and Abuse: Antiochus Epipanus defiled Jerusalem temple. Judah Maccabee recaptured, consecrated and dedicated. Nehemiah came from Babylon, built the walls of Jerusalem in 52 days and returned. When he came back, found the temple unholy...instead of incense in the cells, found things of Thobiah, non-Jew who lead the opposition to rebuild. Power and authority misused. So sanctification needed.

God's Qualities: God is holy (Holy art, Thou O, God). God is immortal (Holy art Thou, Immortal). Holiness leads to immortality. God created man in His own image with reasoning (to know what is good or evil) and will power.

God sanctifies the Church. Church is the extension of the Incarnation. So it is holy. Church is also of the redeemed society...sinners' group. So it is unholy. Thus sanctification needed. Sanctification is essential to see and to be with the holy God (Exodus 29:44-45).

Holy and Unholy: Tabernacle was very beautiful inwardly (Exodus 26:1ff), but the covering was of ram skins (26:14). Even though we are holy, we are unholy too.

Sanctification and dedication of individuals and families. Should know who Jesus is. Not of intelligence, knowledge, or wisdom, but of personal experience. We have to love our Lord (John 21:15-22). We have to understand personally who He is (Matthew 16:13-23; Mark 8:27-33).

Sanctification: To set apart from the ordinary to make holy as sacred...to radiate, emanate, illuminate or transform. It is renewal and purification. The temple of God is holy. We are the temples. We must be the indwelling place of God...the state of holiness given through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. It happens after justification. It is a process. It happens through personal faith and submission to the will of God. No more sinning (1 John 3:6). Sin is subdued through Incarnation. Only those with oil in the vessels will be selected. Church is holy. Holy Spirit works in it. God works in holy hearts. We have to eradicate all the evil and unrighteous thoughts and actvities from our hearts (Ephesians 5:26-27). We have to wash away all the dirt and dust. "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean" (Psalms 51:7). We attain blessedness through baptism to grow with holiness in Him. We have to continue that. Church has the responsibility to attract the world to Almighty God. Spiritual enlightenment is needed to attain this. We should be purified day by day. The first step to sanctification is confession that Jesus is Lord and God and also of our sins. Jesus praised Peter at the first confession; but he was scolded for the second. When the dirt is removed from something, it becomes clean. We pray and sanctify for spirituality. We are created with love. We become sinners due to our selfishness. When our sins are forgiven through repentance and confession, we are cleansed and sanctified (Ephesians 4:24). The love and unity in Trinity is sanctity (John 17:21). We have to try to be perfect (Matthew 5:48). The result is heavenly bliss and happiness (Psalm 32:1). Do the will of God (John 4:34). Rejoice at the success of others. Sanctification of the members of the Church: (Ephesians 5:25-27). The goal of Incarnation and Crucifixion was for the sanctification of the Church: John 17:19-20. Sanctification is based on the heart: Matthew 5:8; 12:34; 15:18-20. Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7; Luke 6:45. Serve Him (Deuteronomy 11:13) and obey Him (13:14) wholeheartedly. No peace for the wicked (Isaiah 48:22). Humble before God (James 4:8). Man was created in God's image. God is love. We should be liberated from sin and be in love in everything. Then we enjoy forgiveness (Psalm 32:1-5) and be happy (Galatians 5:22). Positional sanctification: cleansed of past sins (1 Corinthians 6:11) and become a "new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) Progressive sanctification: Being made holy by the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). Become holy day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16) Permanent sanctification: Becoming holy in all aspects of life (1 Peter 1:15-16) by making all effort (Hebrews 12:14). We have to work out our salvation (Philippians 2: 12-13) by loving righteousness and hating wickedness (Hebrews 1:9). Renew the mind (Romans 12:2) and have "holy and godly conduct" (2 Peter 3:11). It is a gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9). Cleansed everythinmg (Nehemiah 13:30).

Prepare the Church for the Incarnation. It is the beginning of the preparations for the birth of Jesus Christ. Here on, all Scripture readings touch on the same topic. Sanctification is necessary at the beginning. We sanctify the church and the house before we start using them. This day all members enter into the new year with sanctification for the preparation of the birth of Jesus Christ into our hearts...: sanctification through the Holy God (none is holy, except the one Holy Father, the one Holy Son, and the one Holy Spirit), through tears of repentance, confession and holy communion. All were sanctified before receiving the Ten Commandments.

No intermarriages

First fruits to help.

Peter (Greek): Stone or Rock (Cephas is Aramaic)

The question was asked at Caeceria Philippi, geographically and historically a notable place.

Jesus is the Savior: Peter proclaimed during their meeting that Jesus is the Savior (Daniel in his dream saw as Son of God: 7:13)

Jesus was rejoiced to know that at least some knew that He is Messiah.

What do we think of Jesus Christ? Jesus enquired how ordinary people consider Him. God knows everything and doesn't need anybody's testimony (John 2:25). But God likes to know our views and impressions. What others think of us? Neighbors, friends. What our own people think of us? wife/husband, children, parents, brothers, sister, in-laws?

Incomplete information: Do not know the facts: Some think as John the Baptist, His fore-runner; others, Elijah (Malachi 4:5: fiery prophet), or Jeremiah (1:10; Maccabees 15:14). Incomplete information leads to inconsistency.

Make use of the opportunity: The disciples got a chance to testify who Jesus is. We should make use of the opportunity to witness and preach the Lord.

No individual greatness: Peter's declaration of faith came from God. The declaration of faith is the foundation of the Church.

Jesus is the Rock: Pointing upon Himself, Jesus said that the Church will be built; also that of the faith Peter proclaimed. Church is not based on any human being. Jesus is the corner stone; Prophets and Apostles are foundation stones; faithful are the building stones (1 Corithians 3:16; Ephesians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:6). The Lord is the builder (Zechariah 6:11-13; Isaiah 44:28) and the Church is built on the faith of the Apostles.

The Builder: Jesus is the builder so that the powers of evil will not be able to step on it.

Forgiveness of sins given to the Church: The key to forgive sin helps enter to the kingdom of God.

To all disciples: Keys for the kingdom of heaven were given to all disciples after the resurrection (Luke 22:14-30; John 20:21-23; Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 4:8)

God is the authority: Only God can give this authority to enter into the kingdom.

The Keys: The truths of the Gospel, the keys, are given to St. Peter as well as to all the disciples.

Need Faith: We have to have faith to testify ours (1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Peter 2:5)

Rock/Stumbling Stone: When Peter confessed Jesus as Christ, he was a rock; when he encouraged Jesus to avoid suffering, he became a stumbling block.

Troubles and oppositions: There will be troubles and oppositions for the spreading of the Gospel, but will triumph at the end (2 Corinthians 4:9; 6:9; Revelations 12:14). Face such troubles courageously.

Tell only at the right time: To prepare for the kingdom of God, asked not to tell until His resurrection. Preaching only after.

Search Around: Search around to see who or what we are.

Find out from close Relatives who we are.

Affirm our faith: "You are the Christ": St. Peter declared

Wait till the time come: Jesus refused to tell any one (1:44; 5:43; 7:36; 8:26, 30) until the right time (9:9). Only at His Trial, Jesus claimed to be the Christ (14:62).

Face the consequences: Jesus rebuked Peter. We will be too, if we "are not mindful of the things of God."

Breakfast with the risen Lord: The first meal of the first day of the week shall be the Lord's meal, Holy Communion. If Sunday is a fun day, week days shall be weak days.

Jesus' third appearance: In the second, Thomas was convinced and here Peter was commissioned.

Sincere and serious conversation: After the meal, spent some time together for a serious business. Not joking or making funs: pious and sincere.

Jesus healed his disciple's wounds: Peter was ashamed of denying Jesus. In the garden, Peter struck the ear of the servant. Thereafter he followed Jesus, but denied Jesus three times. Jesus looked at him (Luke 22:61) to signify that He still loved him. Peter repented. "Love is the positive side of penitence, while sorrow is the negative." (Remorse or atrition is self-love. Contrition is love of God).

"Do you love me more than these?" The game we play with children using hand signals: "How much do you love me? This much" and finally asking: "Do you love Jesus this much?"

a.	More than fishing (Mark 1:16-17.
b.	More than these people (Mark 14:25-35): All human beings or more than other disciples (Mark 14:27-31)
c.	Pierced into the heart of Peter
d.	Same question toward us: Do we love Him?

Peter says that he does: Can we say with the same sinceriety?

Feed the lamb: Importance of training and entertaining our children.

Questioning 2nd time: Affirmative answer: "I love you"

Tend my sheep: "Shepherd my people" (Matthew 2:6). "All the flock" (Acts 20:28). Lord is the great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20. Astrayed sheep to return (1 Peter 2:25). Shepherd the flock of God (1 Peter 5:2,4). Sheep of the pasture: Psalms 79:13; Sheep in the midst of wolves: Matthew 10:16; Lost sheep: Matthew 15:24. Divide sheep and goats: sheep on the right hand: Matthew 25:32-33. Scattered sheep: Matthew 26:31.

Asked third time: Peter was grieved for asking again and again.

Why repetition?: To make sure; to strengthen the faith and love.

Complete submission and dedication: Lord, you know all things: You know all of my activities, dealings and everything. Jesus knows everyone and every-thing (John 2:24; 16:30).

Feed my sheep (goat): Not only children and women, but also men.

Where are our lambs, sheep and goats? Do we feed and tender them properly?

Reinstated: Earlier Peter said: Even though they all fall away, I will not" (Mark 14:29). Then he denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:54-62). Jesus foretold this (Luke 22:34). Here Peter was reinstated.

When young: Walk anywhere we want (Sometimes, we should not go anywhere we want). Moses to lead Israel, St. Thomas to India, St. Paul for all his works. Christ gives us the courage to go.

When old: Others direct us. Have to depend upon some one else.

Suffering helps for goodness: Peter was warned about suffering and persecution.

Glorify death: Peter did.

Keep His word: If we love Him, we have to keep His word: John 14:23. God loves everyone. No discrimination.

Follow Him: When Peter was reinstated, called to follow Him.

What do we love most? Money? (the root of all evil). Health? still get sick. Food? Diet; Clothes? For selfishness and prestige? When we have everything, forget God. Happened to Solomon that led to immoral life.

Love Jesus: Calvary and His love towards us. God blesses us daily. Live our best. Children follow the footsteps of parents. God want us to follow His will and be saved. Went out to look for the lost sheep. Also said to lay one's life for the sheep. We have to attract people to save by preaching the Gospel (Mark 16:16) and by teaching Christ's precepts (Matthew 28:20). We are ordained to and appointed to lead in faith, in Christ's knowledge, and to grow to the fulness of Christ (Ephesians 4:12-13). The responsibility of the Church lies in individuals, families and parishes.

Lay aside all our bad traits and habits

Grow in God's grace

The foundation stone of the Church, the spiritual house, is Jesus. We are the stones built upon Him.

We are a chosen generation, royal priesthood, holy nation and His special people (Exodus 19:5-6)

We should be model. Others should glorify God by seeing our good works.

Be careful: We are the temple of God: The Church

Think and act according to God's will: John 17:22-23

Flee away from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:9-11): Homosexuals could repent and come to grace (Matthew 11:23-24). It would be easy for them to come to judgement than any others (Revelations 20:11-12). We have to hate sin and love sinners who repent (Matthew 5:44-46; John 13:34-35). We have to forgive the trespasses of others (Matthew 6:14-15). We also need forgiveness (Romans 6:23). Some willingly and willfully choose this sinful life-style. Some are victims. Unhappy and broken marriages and dyfunctional family life are the root causes. They still have hope in the kingdom of God.

We are bought with a price: Death of Christ on the cross.

Have complete surrender: Romans 12:1-2

Moses prayed to God for His presence and God talked to him as a friend.

All the people worshipped God.

Young Joshua stayed at the tabernacle

The tabernacle was completed as God commanded.

They experienced God's presence in their activities.

Progressive Accomadationists: Seek peace and harmony in the community; economic prosperity and co-operation (Jesse Jackson)

Prophetic Radicals: Fight for social justice; see God as a liberator and judge (Martin Luther King)

Redemptive Rationalists: Separate themselves from society (Louis Farrakhan). Consider themselves independent and superior to the political structure. Weeknight meetings and personal salvation (Pentecostal)

Prosperity Positivists: To acquire material goods: Health, wealth and success; eat, drink and be merry.

Idealstic Models: St. Gregorios of Parumala. Gregorios: Vigilant (One who is awake). Yes, His Grace is still awake and contineously praying for us, even though the only decalred patron saint of our Church in India passed away in 1902. "The greatest man has shortest life." Jesus: 33 1/2 years; John the baptist was beheaded very young; St. Stephen was stoned to death very young; St. Basil at 49 and St. Gregorios of Parumala at 54. Born in 1848. Mother died very early. Older sister Mariam took care. At the age of 10, in 1858, ordained as deacon. Studied Syriac and hymns for 7 years with uncle Geevarghese Malpan who died of small pox. Young deacon also became ill and was on the verge of death when saw virgin Mother St. Mary in a vision saying that he won't die, but asked to dedicate his life to God (small pox led to dedicated life). After cure, continued education at Pampakuda Seminary. In 1866, at the age of 18, Pulikottil Mar Dionysius Metropolitan ordained as a priest, and at 19, to Cor Episcopa. At 24, in 1872, became Remban and stayed at Vettickal Dayara. In 1876, at the age of 28, became Metropolitan, the youngest and so got the name "Kochu Thirumeni". Metropolitan of Niranam Diocese and lived at Parumala. After 26 years of dedicated works in the Church, including 3 months of Holy Land visist in 1895, passed away in 1902 at the age of 54 and was buried at Parumala which has become a shrine and sanctuary for thousands of pilgrims for intercessions and blessings.

Saint: "Many are called, few are chosen" (Matthew 22:14) to sainthood. Was a living force. Tender in heart ... helped the needy. Humble in words and deeds. Very truthful...told the truth in the case against him. Several were cured even in life time. Sanctity of life. Special personal preparation to celeberate Holy Qurbana; readiness to suffer for doing good (1 Peter 3:17). Mixed feelings of spirituality, enlightenment and sanctity. Declared saint in 1947. Received permanent place in the hearts of millions.

Walked with God: "Can two walk together unless they are agreed?" (Amos 3:3). Walked not before or after, but with Abraham and Enoch (Genesis 5:22). Close relationship.

Talked with God: Prayerful life. Communion and communication with God. All the canonical prayers at due time...even on the death bed. Daily prayers, meditation and fasting and daily routines very accurate. "MUTTINMEL NILKUNNA CHATHURUTHY"... some one called in teasing. If we miss bed coffee, headache. If Thirumeny missed prayer, irritation. Man of prayer. Prayer is the one that brings truth, religious faith, honesty and respect among the people. "Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever" (Daniel 12:3).

Worked with God: Loved God and man. Forgiveness, kindness, eagerness to do the right thing always, discipline. Faith preserver, philanthropic, administrator (Niranam, Thumpamon, Quilon Dioceses), prophet and good shepherd. Complete dedication and submission to God. Looked after the sick and the destitutes. Prayed and removed epidemic diseases like small pox. Healed the sick. Ascetic charity, humility and poverty.

Educator: MGM High School, Thiruvalla. Great students like late Baselius Geevarghese Catholicos, Vattasseril Dionysius Metropolitan, Konattu Mathen Malpan, Mattackal Alexander Malpan. Education for the low caste.

Missionary: 100 or so people became Christians at Chengannoor. In 1889, Alvaris Metropolitan to Goa and Ceylon. In 1892, Mar Thimotheos was consecrated at Ceylon and sent to America. "Commander of the Crown of Thorns". In 1895, Jerusalem Tour for three months with a party of 7 others in the group.

Creative Writer/Man of Letters: Travalogue: The brief and charming description of a three month visit of Jerusalem and the adjacent places of importance: Jesus' birth, ministry, crucifixion, burial, and ascension (Jerusalem Yathra Vivaranam). 50 pastoral epistles, articles and private letters; writings on education, moral integrity, social welfare' justice to the down-trodden, prayers, etc.

Orator: Original thinker and theologian

Peace Maker: In parihes through love, kindness, and Godfearing. With opposing groups through hearty conversations.

Few Recorded experiences: (1) Chathannoor Alexander Muthalali and his wife were cured (2) Mallappally V.T. Abraham was healed from small pox and a son was born to him (3) Son born and escaped from tragic illness in Australia (4) Kottuthala Thoma Ashan (instuctor) became Opadeshi (Preacher) (5) Teasing girl became a laughing stock and was cured by Thirumeny (6) Ayyampally temple procession stopped the percussions at the front of Ayyampally church through the mediation of Thirumeny at the death of a participant (7) P.P. Paulose of Thengelil was cured from artheritis (8) Chirathalackal C.V. Mathai, Kaviyoor found his lost copper pot through the intercession of the saint.

Documentary: The video tape produced on the life and works of the saint gives sme insight of St. Gregorios of Parumala.

Parumala Seminary: In 1872, Korula Mathen of Arikupurathu, gave a small portion of land as a gift to Pulikottil Joseph Mar Dionysius Metropolitan who built a small building there to train the deacons. In 1876, Parumala Thirumeny built a church there and became His Grace's residence and later became Thirumeny's resting place in 1902. Yuyakim Mar Ivanios is also buried there in 1925. Several ordinations, consecrations, conferences, elevations, three Malankara Associations (1878, 1992 and 2002) and hundreds of baptisms and weddings conducted there. Also now there is a 72 room retreat house, 2 dorms, a big hall, 27 housing unit and a hospital adjacent to the seminary. The church has been enlarged with modern architecture format and is one of the biggest church buildings in our Church.

Nick name: St. James had a nick name: Camel Knees: Spent too much time in prayer on knees (Monks, carpet layers: Their knees)

Jesus taught daily in the temple

There were great opposition

People listened to Jesus enthusiastically: Lk. 21:38

Jesus' authority challenged

Jesus answered with a question

The widow had little, but she gave all what she had

God expects us to have this kind of attitude

Jesus gave all of His for us.

God's Promise: A son promised to Abraham (Genesis 18: 1-15) just like to Zechariah. (Like Elizabeth, Sarai: Genesis 11:30; Rachel: Genesis 29:31; and Hannah: 1 Samuel 1:1ff were barren, but had children later).

Priestly family: Levites were priestly tribes. Aaron's family was assigned priestly functions. During David's time, priests were divided into 24 groups and assigned to perform services according to turns (1 Chronicle 24:1; 2 Chronicles 23:4; 2 Kings 11:7). Abijah was the eighth (1 Chronicles 24:10). Zachariahs was the oldest in the tribe. Elizabeth was of the daughters of Aaron. Thus John was from the priestly family in both sides. Aaron's wife was Elizabeth (Exodus 6:21). So also Zachariahs'. End of Old Testament priesthood.

Have faith: History of Israel begins with Abraham and ends with Zechariah. No children till old, but sons because of their deep faith.

Israel's priesthood begins through Elizabeth, wife of Aaron; here the birth of John the Baptist, forerunner of our Lord, through another Elizabeth, wife of Zechariah.

A joint Service: People prayed outside when the priest was doing incense inside the sanctuary.

Work together: Abraham and Melkizedek ; Moses and Aaron; David and Abyathar; Zerubabel and Jeshua and Christ and John the Baptist worked together.

Prayers are answered. They did not have a child. Desparations and sorrow, but did not forsake God (2: 36-37). Even if we lead a good life, that doesn't mean that all our prayers will be answered. Still they didn't forsake God. Job's wife did: Job 2:9. "Blessed is the pure in heart." Good people also have to face problems. When we have problems, remember Zachariahs and Hannah. Years of prayers and waiting. Here the couples were "righteous and blameless." They were faithful (Genesis 11:30; 17:17). Finally Aaron's rod "sprouted and put forth buds" and "produced blossoms and yielded ripe almonds" (Numbers 17:8). Children should be born through our prayers. The child became the forerunner. So waiting was blissful.

God's message while serving: Felt His presence. God is a very help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Recite Psalm 23, five times a day for seven days. Here God revealed His glory while in service: Censor (Exodus 30:7-8)

Doubts and punishments: Zechariah should not have doubted, but did. So punished. Abraham had no doubts (Romans 4:20). God's message through Gabriel to Daniel (8) and Ezekiel (3:26) and became speechless. Here different situation. Did not believe. So became mute.

Punishment helped for reflection: Lots of time for prayer and meditation throughout until the child's birth. Time for reflection about God's grace and concern (Psalm 119:7). When we have problems, meditate.

Blessed with a son of greatness: Great in the sight of the Lord. What else parents need? Parents get excited when they see the achievements of their children. Blessed parents dedicate their God-given children and talents. John like Samson (Judges 7:13) - different and like Jeremiah (1:5) - spirit filled. Isaiah's dreams: 47: 1, 5. Like Elijah, John preached of repentance and faith. Became Lord's fore-runner.

Children born as a result of prayer became great: Isaac, Jacob, Samuel, Samson, John the Baptist.

Accept God's revelation: Priests and leaders should accept God's revelations.

Filled with Holy Spirit: Parents lived with the fear of God. So their son became filled with Holy Spirit in her womb as told by the angel. He was a great Nazir. (Anointing with Holy Oil - confirmation - strengthens us).

We may be helpless, but not hopeless.

Praise and thank God for the blessings we receive. Elizabeth did.

Divorce is unchristian: Genesis 1:27; 2:24, 41; Matthew 5:31-32.

Deuteronomy 24:1-4 is a concession to human sinfulness.

The celebate can be free of family responsibilities to give themselves to the work of God.

Martha welcomed Jesus but got busy with other things

Mary sat at Jesus' feet and learned.

The needs of the spirit are more important than the comfort of the body.

God gives us power to live holy lives.

We must grow with diligence by cultivating the characteristics of virtue, knowledge, self control, perseverence, kindness and love.

Our lives should produce the fruits of holiness (Galatians 5:22-25)

We must encourage others toward heaven.

Spirit-filled Christians freely submit themselves to one another.

Mutual submission is to be carried out between wives and husbands and between children and parents.

Submission underlines love.

We are all members of Christ's body

The unity of husband and wife (Genesis 2:24) is similar to the unity of Christ and the Church.

Instruct and correct children to serve the Lord rather than unreasonably severe.

Loneliness is not good.

God made a living companion to Adam out of his rib.

Adam and Eve became one flesh.

Sarah became mother of the people of God (Abram became Abraham and Sarai became Sarah...status changed: Revelations 2:17).

God blessed Abraham with a child: Isaac.

Jacob's favoritism along with Joseph's report caused hatred.

Joseph's dreams: The dreamer later became an interpreter of dreams (40:9-19; 41:25-32) and everyone bowed before him (43:26; 44:14).

Brothers envied Joseph.

Father kept the matter in mind. cf. Luke 2:19, 51: Mother of Jesus...Also Daniel 7:28

Hannah prayed for a son

Hannah did not get mad, but pleaded to Eli.

Hannah was blessed by Eli as well as God.

Naomi pleaded Orpah and Ruth, her daughters-in-laws to return to their mother's.

Orpah returned with relutance.

Ruth stayed with Naomi uttering that only death parts her from Naomi.

Importance of unity among people

Oil used in the consecration of high priest: Exodus 29:7

Mount Hermon: Site of unusually heavy dew, a great blessing.