The Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Student Movement (M.G.O.C.S.M.) of St. Thomas
Orthodox Church, Oklahoma City, enters its fifth year of dedication and service to the youth of our parish. We are spiritually guided by our vicar, Rev. Fr. Cherian M. Kunnel, and we are under the direction of our Youth Advisor Thomas Kalayilparampil. Our M.G.O.C.S.M. consists of approximately twenty-five members aged 13 to 30, representing different parts of central Oklahoma.
The M.G.O.C.S.M. national motto of “Worship, Study, Service” is the foundation of our youth group’s many activities. Our members regularly and actively attend Church events, such as our Sunday worships and monthly prayer meetings. This year, we hope to revive our interest in Bible Studies, as we plan to invite Deacons from the region to teach us more about God’s word and about our Orthodox faith. As Vice President, it is my top priority to make this M.G.O.C.S.M. more passionate about community service, by spreading God’s love to any and all worthy causes around the Oklahoma City area.
Over the past few years, we have become more active in fellowship, fundraising, retreats, and extra-curricular activities. Our M.G.O.C.S.M. fosters spiritual bonds through themed parties during the year. Our youth also provides funds for our Church’s new building, and raises money in order to successfully execute events. In 2009, we planned and hosted Oklahoma’s first Red River Retreat (RRR ’09), inviting Indian Orthodox Christians from various cities in Texas to join Oklahomans in study, worship, and fellowship. It is our goal to repeat the success of RRR ’09 through our next retreat in the spring of 2010, while sending representatives of our youth to the retreats hosted by neighboring churches in our region. We have also participated and excelled in regional volleyball tournaments and dance competitions within the past few years, and continue to improve in hopes of bringing home championship trophies.
By God’s grace, may we continue to make an impact in the Southwest Region, in Oklahoma City, in our Church, and in the lives of each individual who is proud to be a member of our M.G.O.C.S.M. On behalf of the 2009-2010 committee, we will use our leadership skills to strengthen our Christian brotherhood, and to serve our Church and community for the Glory of God.
Yours in Christ,
Samson Thomas
M.G.O.C.S.M. Vice President 2009-2010
samson.thomas@ou.edu – 972.822.9813
