Coming Events

Youth Retreat- Compass For Campus Life

Sunday - May 03, 2026

10:00 AM to 12:30 AM

The Marthoma Congregation Champaign Youth Fellowship is planning to conduct a Retreat for Youth and College Students on Sunday, May 3rd 2026 from 10 am to 12.30 pm at Orchard Downs Community Center,510 W George Huff Dr, Urbana, IL 61801.

The Theme for the Retreat is

Compass For Campus Life.

" For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works" Ephesians 2:10

Leader: Dr. Shiji Alex & Rev. Johnson Varughese

It is a time for singing, worship, and Spiritual Renewal. All are invited regardless of caste, creed or religion.

Refreshments and food will be provided.

No fee or charges.

Please register your name to confirm your participation on or before April 19th 5pm.

Your prayers and presence requested.

Past Events

First Marthoma Holy Communion at Champaign

(Sunday - June 18, 2023)

In June 18, 2023, a small group of believers in Champaign, Illinois began gathering for monthly Holy Communion under the spiritual leadership of Rev. Johnson Varughese. What began as a humble ecumenical fellowship soon blossomed into a thriving congregation, nurtured by prayer, united in purpose, and guided by faith.

Mar Thoma Congregation Champaign Inaugural

(Sunday - Sept 21, 2025)

The official inauguration of the Mar Thoma Congregation, Champaign was held on Sunday,September 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with a Holy Communion service led by the Diocesan Episcopa, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Thirumeni. Mrs. Pretty Philip, the Secretary, extended a warm welcome to the gathering, after which Rev. Johnson Varughese delivered the presidential address. Since Champaign–Urbana is home to the University of Illinois, the congregation has a significant role in catering to the spiritual needs of students with Mar Thoma and Indian backgrounds. Dr. Priya and Dr. Reni, the Convenor and Chief Editor, presented the inaugural souvenir, which was released by Thirumeni. Thirumeni also released the church memento.

Representing different parishes, Rev. Ashish Thomas, Rev. Jaison Thomas, Dr. P. V. Cherian, and Dr. Mathew Sadhu offered felicitations. As a token of gratitude, the vicar and church officials presented a plaque to Thirumeni. The editorial work of the souvenir was carried out by Dr. Cherian Samuel, Chief Editor of the Marthoma Messenger, as a member of the editorial board, for which Thirumeni presented him with a special award. The function was well arranged at Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church, 208 W. University Avenue, Champaign. Many students and members from other parishes attended, and the congregation arranged dinner for all participants.

Christmas Serivce 2026

(Saturday - Dec 06, 2025)

We had our Christmas service on December 6, 2025. The choir presented beautiful songs, and the Sunday school children and youth presented songs and skits. Our vicar, Rev. Johnson Varughese, delivered the Christmas message.