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My First Assembly Meeting

 

Diocesan Center in Atlanta, GA


Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending a diocesan assembly meeting for the first time as a representative for my parish. I have been interested in serving in this capacity for many years, but am almost glad that it has taken me this long — knowing that everything I’ve experienced and learned between my early 20s and now has allowed me to look at the experience with a broader perspective.

If you’d like to hear my thoughts on the experience, let me know in the comments below.

For the benefit of those not familiar with what goes in on the assembly, I’ve included some excerpts from my report to the parish. For more information on anything mentioned, I encourage you to inquire with your Achen, Youth Chaplain, or Parish Assembly Member… or you can always comment @marthopodcast.

***SUMMARY***

The 2020 Diocesan Assembly was held on Saturday, December 12th, after being rescheduled several times due to the impact of COVID-19 across the country and the globe. The meeting was conducted at the Carmel Mar Thoma Center in Atlanta with our diocesan bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa, serving as the chair. While several members attended in person, the majority of members, including me, participated remotely via Zoom.

158 members were recorded as present, representing 92% quorum. The assembly members’ oath was administered by Thirumeni and recited by all.

Thirumeni continued by administering his presidential address. He noted that while we are in a time of fear from COVID, and a time of loss and grief at the passing of our Metropolitan, Christmas points us to hope. He also noted that we are the first diocese to use a virtual platform to conduct a diocese meeting.

The annual report and accounts were presented by the Diocesan Secretary. Over expenditure, non-budgeted items, and budget for the coming year were then presented by Mr. Philip Thomas, Diocesan Treasurer. After questions and discussion, all items were passed by the assembly. 

Recognitions in several categories were awarded as follows:

 

  • Best Parish Award — Awarded to 36 parishes
  • Marthoma Messenger Awards
  • Recognition of 5 youths for graduating as valedictorians in our diocese
  • A message of condolence on the passing of Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan.
  • A resolution to congratulate Most Rev. Dr. Mar Theodosius Mar Thoma on his recent enthronement as the 22nd metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church.
  • A resolution to congratulate senator Kevin Thomas of New York on his recent reelection.
  • A resolution to begin development of “The Mar Thoma Institute for Mission and Culture” in honor of our Diocesan Bishop’s 70th birthday. 
  • A resolution to proceed with the development of a lay youth chaplaincy program within the diocese.

The floor was opened for a brief period of questions and general discussion. Afterward, several resolutions were passed including (but not limited to):

Before closing the meeting, Thirumeni reinforced that in addition to being the voice of the parish in the assembly, members must also act as the voice of the diocese in their parishes by setting an example and promoting support for diocese programs.

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