St. John The Baptist Indian Orthodox Church, Stoke-On-Trent | Indian (Malankara) Orthodox Syrian Church

By the grace of God, the faithful of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church residing in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas formed a prayer group in 2013. While some were members of neighbouring parishes, others were only able to attend church services occasionally.

Recognising the spiritual needs of the faithful in the area, the faithful approached the Diocesan Metropolitan and requested permission to conduct regular services in Stoke-on-Trent. This was granted, and Rev. Fr. John Varughese was authorized to commence the celebration of the Holy Qurbana at St Mary’s Church, Knutton, Stoke-on-Trent. Later, Diocesan Metropolitan, H.E. Dr Mathews Mar Thimothios, personally attended the gathering and formally declared the congregation as a parish under the Diocese of the UK, Europe & Africa. This marked the fulfilment of a long-cherished desire of the faithful and the beginning of a new chapter in the spiritual life of the Orthodox community in Stoke-on-Trent.

Initially, around 20 families regularly participated in the services. The Parish has seen steady growth since then. Regular services are conducted on the first Saturday of every month and every Sunday thereafter. Various spiritual organisations actively contribute to the life and ministry of the parish, providing opportunities for prayer, fellowship, spiritual growth, and service. The Parish also wholeheartedly welcomes students from Keele University and Staffordshire University, offering them a spiritual home and a supportive Orthodox community during their time in the area.

Today, the parish has grown to approximately 70 families. Through the active participation of our members, the parish continues to make a meaningful contribution to the wider community and to the life and mission of the Diocese.

Parish

Stoke-On-Trent St. John The Baptist Indian Orthodox Church

England, United Kingdom

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