MAR THOMA SUNDAY SCHOOL

Introduction

The reformers of the Malankara Church realized the importance of Bible Study, as essential for spiritual renewal and growth. The opening of the Sunday Schools thus became a natural development in the way of Christian nurture. The formal inauguration of the Sunday School Samajam comprising all the Sunday Schools, which had already been started in the parishes, took place at Maramon Convention in 1905. Mr. V P Mammen, (later Vicar General V P Mammen Kasseesa) was elected as the General Secretary. The growth and development of the Sunday School Samajam as one of the leading Christian Education organizations in India was the result of the extraordinary organizing ability of Rev. V P Mammen and his untiring efforts for 47 years. In those days of very limited travel facilities he visited churches in different places traveling in bullock carts and riding bicycles. He organized syllabuses for the different grades and published the lessons to be taught in various classes. A publication entitled “Sandarsini” began to be published in 1911 containing articles helpful to the pupils, teachers and parents and lesson notes for Sunday school teachers. Since 1952 textbooks are published for the various classes. From 1977 the Sunday School Samajam follows the curriculum of the Christian Education Council of India.

Rev. Dr. K K George joined the work of the Sunday School Samajam in 1952 and was General Secretary of the Samajam after the demise of very Rev. V P Mammen, from 1952 up to June in 1982. Both of them laboured in this great cause dedicating their extraordinary powers of head and heart to the cause of Christian Education children. Classes are arranged for a period of 15 years from the age of 5, so that by the time the Sunday school course is completed, the pupils will have sound knowledge of the scriptures and the doctrines of the church.

Sunday Schools are arranged in every Parish and in large Parishes there will be two or more Sunday Schools according to the need. Inspectors are allotted to supervise the work of Sunday Schools in given area, and organizers are appointed in each diocese. The Central Office arranges examination every year and competitions are also held at the Diocesan and Central level.

The Sunday School Samajam celebrated the Platinum Jubilee in 1980. The Christian Education Centre was established at Charal Mount, Kuriannoor in 1972 providing one of the attractive camp sights for children and for training of teachers. The High School at Edakulam and the boarding house attached to it are run by the Sunday School Samajam.

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Diocesan Sunday School

The Diocesan Sunday School of the Mar Thoma Church UKEA serves across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa. The Diocesan Sunday School is divided into Africa, Europe, London, Northwest and Midlands Centres. We work in collaboration with the Sunday School Samajam and is governed by the Diocesan Sunday School Committee under the leadership of the Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev. PD Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa .

Parishes and Congregations

The Diocese currently has thirty active Sunday School units across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa. Together, these units support the faith formation and journey of more than two thousand children, guided by over four hundred dedicated teachers and volunteers who faithfully accompany them in their spiritual growth.

Teachers

Teachers are the heartbeat of the Diocesan Sunday Schools. The Diocese remains deeply grateful to all teachers and volunteers who give their time, talents and care with such generosity each week. Their dedication, enthusiasm and genuine love for the ministry are continually recognised and appreciated, and their commitment to nurturing the faith of the next generation stands as an inspiring testimony for the whole community.

Curriculum

All Diocesan Sunday Schools follow the curriculum used in the Diocese of North America and Europe, offering classes from Nursery to Grade 12. Church history is taught using The Mar Thoma Church Our Foundation and Vision. From 2026 onwards, all units move to the Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam curriculum, ensuring full alignment with the wider Mar Thoma Sunday School system.

VBS

A two-day Diocesan VBS leader’s training camp is organised annually to ensure children receive the highest quality VBS experience and to strengthen the skills of those who will lead this ministry in the years ahead. From 2026, the Sunday School Samajam online training will also be introduced in the Diocese, followed by the annual VBS training camp.

Diocesan Exams

The Annual Diocesan Examination is conducted in November across all units. Students from Nursery to Grade 12 participate in the examination. Plaques and certificates are presented to students who achieve ninety per cent and above, acknowledging academic excellence and dedication.

World Sunday School Day

World Sunday School Day is celebrated with enthusiasm across all five centres. Each centre hosts a joint gathering that brings children, teachers and families together for singing, worship, presentations and theme-based activities. The day strengthens fellowship, promotes shared learning and nurtures a sense of togetherness in Christ, making it a meaningful occasion for families and the wider Sunday School community. It is a joy and a blessing to guide the next generation in God’s Word and His loving purpose. We pray for the ministry of our Lord to grow from strength to strength, expand through the Diocese, and work through the future of the vitality of the Mar Thoma churches in the UK, Europe & Africa Diocese. We pray this be a place where people will be energised, empowered and edified to be more committed to the Lord and His service. May the Lord continue to watch over the Diocesan Sunday School and use this ministry as a channel of His grace and goodness.