Under the leadership of Ecclesia United International, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, about forty churches from all sections of the Indian Christian community celebrated the Indian Christian Day. In the program held on July 28 at Philadelphia Syro-Malabar Catholic Church Auditorium, apart from Kerala Christian Churches, Gujarati and Telugu Churches also presented programs like Choir, Bible Reading and Solo. Father MK Kuriakos, vicar of St. Thomas Orthodox Church, Philadelphia, who is also the chairman of the organizing committee, presented papers on the topic of Christian contributions in the field of education in India, and Dr. Alvin Joseph, Executive Member and Youth Mission Director of Ecclesia United International, presented papers on the topic of contributions in the field of religious services. The program began with an opening prayer by Father Eldos KP, Vicar of St. Peter’s Syriac Orthodox Cathedral, Philadelphia. Rachel Oommen sang the national anthems of India and America. Ecclesia United Interantional President Bimal John , Asianet USA Regional Manager Vincent Emmanuel, Indian Overseas Congress Pennsylvania Chapter Chairman Sabu Skaria, Pampa Malayali Association Representative Alex Thomas, American Manipur Church Pastor Mark Hokip, Gujarat Church Pastor V.K Makwana, World Malayali Association Pennsylvania Chairman Ninan Mathai, Republican Party leaders Aaron Bashir, Mike Burgen and Pennsylvania Telugu Church Pastor Jaykar spoke on the occasion. Ecclesia United International IT and Communications Director Sam Thomas, Thomasukutty Varghese, Faith Eldo and Sunitha Anish were the program coordinators. Organizing Committee Secretary Paul Varkey gave the welcome speech and Ecclesia United International Vice Chairman Stanley George gave a vote of thanks. Organizing Committee Vice Chairman Pastor PC Chandy gave the closing prayer and Rev. Father KK John also gave the blessing. The Philadelphia River of Life Pakistani Church Choir sang as guests at the event. Then a sumptuous fellowship dinner was prepared. Believers and priests representing various churches in Philadelphia participated in the ceremony.
