A guide to the Church of South India (CSI) Parish Abu Dhabi
The CSI Parish’s journey from humble beginnings to its current status as a vibrant and active congregation is a story of faith, dedication and community spirit. The CSI Parish Abu Dhabi is part of the largest Protestant denominations in India, serving the spiritual needs of South Indian expatriates residing in the capital. The church officially opened in April 2024 and here’s everything you need to know about its history, services, facilities and more!
ABOUT CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA PARISH ABU DHABI
CSI Malayalam Parish Abu Dhabi traces its roots back to the mid-20th century, coinciding with the growth of the expatriate community in the UAE. As South Indian Christians began to migrate to Abu Dhabi for work and better opportunities, there arose a need for a spiritual home where they could worship, find fellowship and maintain their religious traditions.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, small groups of South Indian Christians started meeting informally for prayer and fellowship. These gatherings were crucial in maintaining their faith and community ties in a foreign land. Recognising the growing need for a structured congregation, the community sought assistance from the Church of South India to establish an official parish.
CSI Malayalam congregation Abu Dhabi held its first service in 1979. This milestone was achieved with the support of the CSI members and the cooperation of local authorities. The church’s establishment was a significant moment for the South Indian Christian community in the capital city, providing them with a dedicated place for worship and community activities.
Since its inception, the CSI Parish in Abu Dhabi has grown steadily, both in terms of membership and infrastructure. The initial services were held in borrowed or rented spaces until the community could establish a more permanent location. Through the dedication and efforts of its members, the parish was able to acquire land and construct a church building that could accommodate the growing congregation.
And on 28th April 2024, the long awaited Protestant church opened its gates for its first formal service. As it looks to the future, the parish remains committed to its mission of serving God and the community, continuing to be a beacon of faith for its members.
CSI PARISH ABU DHABI ORGANISATIONS AND PROGRAMMES
CSI Parish has several organisations that meet the diverse needs of its members. Regular worship services, Sunday School for children, Youth Movement, Women’s Fellowship and various other outreach programmes are integral parts of the church.
YOUTH MOVEMENT
The Youth Movement provides a platform for young adults to engage in spiritual, social and cultural activities. It aims to foster a sense of community and encourage active participation. Let’s look at the CSI Parish Abu Dhabi Youth Movement committee members.
Designation | Name |
|---|---|
Designation President | Name Rev. Lalji M. Philip |
Designation Vice President | Name Ann Lilly Benjamin |
Designation Secretary | Name Neenu Sara John |
Designation Joint Secretary | Name Nithin Varghese Jacob |
Designation Treasurer | Name Boney Modayil Jos |
Designation Committee Member | Name Vineeth Shibu Rajan |
Designation Committee Member | Name Tom Kuruvila |
Designation Committee Member | Name Joshi Vincent |
Designation Committee Member | Name Joel John Abraham |
Designation Committee Member | Name Nisson M Jacob |
Designation Committee Member | Name Sinu Merin Mathew |
Designation Committee Member | Name Kevin Koshy John |
Designation Committee Member | Name Dave Oommen John |
Designation Youth Conference Convenor | Name Teji Jacob George |
Designation Auditor | Name Jacob Jeffin Joseph |
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP
The Women’s Fellowship was started in 1983. The group meets regularly to discuss various topics related to faith, family and personal growth. They also participate in activities such as Christmas Carol and Harvest Festival. CSI Parish Women’s Fellowship meetings are held every second and fourth Thursday from 06:00 pm onwards.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
The Sunday School first started in 1982 and is designed for children and teenagers where they can learn about Christian values, Bible stories and moral lessons. Classes are held on Fridays from 04:00 pm to 06:00 pm. Here’s a look at the Sunday School committee members.
Designation | Name |
|---|---|
Designation President | Name Rev. Lalji M Philip |
Designation Headmaster | Name Reji Benjamin |
Designation Secretary | Name Nigel George John |
Designation Joint Secretary | Name Jennefer John |
Designation Committee Member | Name Blessy Sabu John |
Designation Committee Member | Name Nidhi Jacob |
Designation Committee Member | Name Jinu John Thomas |
Designation Committee Member | Name Mary Nebu Mathew |
CHOIR
The CSI Parish has a small group of talented and dedicated members. The choir has 50 members who perform during services and special events. The church choir was formed in 1981. The practice is conducted on Saturdays.
Designation | Name |
|---|---|
Designation President | Name Rev. Lalji M Philip |
Designation Choir Master | Name Sam Oommen Abraham |
Designation Secretary | Name Joel John Abraham |
Designation Committee Member | Name Varghese Itty Iype |
Designation Committee Member | Name Bindu Stuvert |
Designation Committee Member | Name Anita John |
TEENS FORUM
The Teens Forum is a dedicated programme for teenagers. It teaches them about faith and the value of religion. This forum is led by the following members.
Designation | Name |
|---|---|
Designation President | Name Rev. Lalji M Philip |
Designation Patron | Name Jinu John Thomas |
Designation Patron | Name Nidhi Jacob |
Designation Vice President | Name Keziah Ann Johnson |
Designation Secretary | Name Neil Mathews Koshy |
Designation Joint Secretary | Name Anakha Mariam James |
Designation Treasurer | Name Dave Eapen Varghese |
Designation Committee Member | Name Ashly Ann Jacob |
Designation Committee Member | Name Aaron Varghese Mathew |
Designation Committee Member | Name Jadin Anna Reji |
Designation Committee Member | Name Naethen Mathew Anil |
LAITY FELLOWSHIP
Laity Fellowship helps the church raise funds. The following members are part of the fellowship.
Designation | Name |
|---|---|
Designation President | Name Rev. Lalji M Philip |
Designation Vice President | Name Binu Thomas |
Designation Secretary | Name Dale Mathews |
Designation Joint Secretary | Name Samuel P Daniel |
Designation Treasurer | Name Rinu Jacob |
Designation Committee Member | Name Kunjumon Mathai |
Designation Committee Member | Name Nisson M Jacob |
Designation Committee Member | Name Rahul Cheriyan |
Designation Committee Member | Name Rajan Poulose |
Designation Committee Member | Name Siji Roshan |
Designation Auditor | Name Sajan Simon |
FAQS
WHO IS THE CHURCH’S BISHOP?
Rt. Rev. Malayil Sabu Koshy Cherian is the Bishop of CSI Parish Abu Dhabi. Rev. Laji M Philip serves as the church’s Vicar.
WHICH ARE THE UPCOMING BIBLE LESSONS?
The upcoming Bible lessons at the new CSI Church Abu Dhabi are ‘Is The Universe’, ‘Including Man’, ‘Evolved by Atomic Force’, ‘Christian Science’, ‘God’ and ‘Sacrament’. You can visit the church’s official website to find out more.
WHAT ARE THE CONTACT DETAILS FOR CSI MALAYALAM PARISH ABU DHABI?
You can contact the church at +971-2-634-4914.
WHAT IS THE CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA ABU DHABI LOCATION?
The church is located in Abu Mureikha.
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to New CSI Church Abu Dhabi. The church is committed to serving not only its members but also the broader community. It is a focal point for South Indian Christians in Abu Dhabi offering them a place to worship and experience spiritual growth.
There are many churches in Abu Dhabi that you can explore depending on the branch of Christianity you follow. The capital city is also home to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, a stunning marble-and-sandstone shrine.
If you’re a resident of the neighbouring emirate, here’s a list of the churches in Dubai.
The cover image credit goes to the official CSI Parish Abu Dhabi website.
