SALEM AND KUMARAPALAYA:
The Salem Student’s ministry concentrates its work in two geographical zones namely Salem and Kumarapalayam. The Student’s ministry in Salem was the fruit of the pioneering work of those who came to this place to study and work, heeding the call of Christ and the tradition of our forefathers to preach the word wherever they went. The strong fellowship among the Christian families grew into a prayer group and occasional worship. The presence of many professional and nursing colleges attracted a great number of Engineering and Medical students to this place which became a matter of great concern for the church members to initiate a student’s ministry over these places.
Mar Thoma Parish Salem plays an integral part in student’s ministry by creating a safe, loving and wholesome familial atmosphere for the students and young people so that they can develop values, ethical norms and sense of Christian community. For the students Salem MTC is a home away from home. Students are always encouraged to integrate into the larger framework of the community through their participation in the worship services, programmers of the church, prayer meetings, Sunday School, VBS, Choir and Yuvajana Sakhyam and are allotted mentors for any specific direction and prayer requests. Meetings are organised Sunday’s after the service. In this meeting discussions, Bible Study, Bible Quiz, Devotional Talk, games etc. we were taken place.
Students Ministry at Kumarapalayam, which is situated 55kms away from Salem is also functioning effectively. Students are given necessary spiritual guidance and nourishment by Students Chaplain Achen and the Evangelist staying there. The main activities are Bible Study, Counselling, Hostel Visits, Prayer Meetings, etc. Holy Qurbana is being celebrated on every 3rd Sunday followed by the Students fellowship.
The number of students who are coming to Salem and Kumarapalayam for Studying are reducing every year. Even though we have less students they are very active and talented. God has been wonderfully leading the student’s ministry in Salem and Kumarapalayam to touch the lives of the students and youths here with light of the gospel. Rev. Shiju Babu is serving as Student Chaplain.