Message from Fr. Roy Joseph

Dear Stephen Achan and SMCB Parishioners,

With fond memories I write to you looking back on my time at the parish from 2013 to 2016. Being a full-time theology student in Boston then, getting away on weekends to the SMCB community was a real gift. In those first weeks, that gift was made possible by Grace who generously drove me to and from Boston. You all warmly welcomed me, and soon Bonus asked me to teach CCD to the oldest group of kids, 10^th graders at that time. I gladly did for 3 years, my first class having only three students. Each class was different though always filled with good kids and open conversations about our faith that I looked forward to, each week.

There were many formative events during my time there but none more important than our liturgies. It was the beauty of the Qurbana that first attracted me to the Syro-Malabar priesthood. Perhaps without knowing, you helped confirm that desire in me with your attentiveness and regular commitment to our liturgical tradition. All that culminated for me with my ordination as a deacon at the parish in October 2015. That historic liturgy presided by Bishop. Jacob Angadiath with the assistance of the former pastor Fr. Mathew Pothalil, Vicar, is unforgettable. I happily remember how many of you participated in making that day so special for me, like those who gathered for the beautiful procession and choir members who learned lovely songs just for the occasion.

One final memory I cherish was my last time at the parish when I came back to preside at my first Qurbana there as a priest. The pastor at that time, Fr. Raphael Ambadan again extended a warm SMCB welcome. It also happened to be Mother Teresa’s canonization day. The liturgy was wonderful as usual with a touching reception afterwards. Hearing from my students as well as from the choir singing those special songs was a fitting conclusion to my time there. Everyone was so affirming that it felt like I was being canonized!

Filled with Easter joy and gratitude for the gift you have been to me, I wish you a happy 10^th anniversary! May God bless you and your families as you boldly proclaim the Good News of the Risen Lord passed on to us by our beloved St. Thomas. Let us pray for each other.

In Christ,

Fr. Roy Joseph, SJ