POOTHAMKUTTY: Preparations are afoot for the 30th Poothamkutty St. Mary's Bible Convention and eight days lent (Ettunombu) at St.Mary's Jacobite Syrian Christian Church, Poothamkutty. The renowned St. Mary's Church, where portion of Holy girdle (Soonoro) of St. Mary, the Mother of God has been installed is one among the illustrious Marian Pilgrim Centres in the Malankara Church. It is situated at the river-bed of Chalakkudy puzha and not very far from the Ezhattumugham tourist centre. Thousands of faithful irrespective of caste, creed and colour pay regular visit to the Church as it is the source of blessings and strength.

On Saturday, the 31st August 2013, perunal flag will be hoisted by the Vicar Rev.Fr. Alias Ipe Parackal to mark the beginning of the perunal programme. Soon after the Evening prayers, H.E. Dr. Gracian Mundadan, former Bishop of the Bijnor Diocese of the Catholic Church will inaugurate the Bible Convention. Renowned preachers will share gospel messages in ensuing occasions in addition to the three days Family Renewal Retreat lead by St. John's Mission, Kothamangalam. Mor Baselios Educational Excellence Awards will be distributed by H.B.Dr. Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church on Tuesday, the 3rd September, 2013 followed by handing over ceremony of the Eye donation Will, in which all members of the parish would sign. Dr. Jolly Raphel (L.F.Hospital, Angamaly) will receive the Will.

Their Graces Dr. Abraham Mor Severios, Geevarghese Mor Athanasius, Arch Bishop Kuriakose Mor Severios, Dr. Mathews Mor Aphrem, Dr. Alias Mor Athanasius, Yacob Mor Anthonios, Alias Mor Julius, Zakharias Mor Policarpose, Dr. Mathews Mor Antheemos, Rev. Alukkal Zakharia Ramban and priests will lead this year's perunal programme in different days. Various Committees Under the leadership of the Vicar Rev.Fr.Alias Ipe Parackal are functioning for the grand success of the programme.