ST.

PAUL’S CHURCH
YOUTH FELLOWSHIP

ALL GLORY TO GOD!

Newsletter
Edition 01
March 2025
CONTENTS
Introduction
Word of Address “How good and
About the fellowship pleasant it is when
Highlights of the last quarter God’s people live
Faith in Action - Testimonies together in unity!”
Book suggestions
Youth Chronicles - Articles &
Psalm 133:1
Sketches

In this newsletter you will find:

A little about us and our latest updates. Keep Reading!
Meet our Spiritual Mentors...

Presbyter-in-charge: Rev. D. Christy Gnanadasan

Mentor: Mrs. Rainka Christy

Our Convenors...

Mr. David Johnson Mr. Ruban Gnanaraj R

Meet the Pillars of our Fellowship

Secretary Treasurer
Ms. Jemima Hepzibha. A Mrs. Sam Priyadarshini

assistant assistant
Secretary treasurer
Mr. Stanley David Mrs. Sheryl Nikitha
From the Presbyter's Heart...
A Message from Rev. Christy Gnanadasan
Dear Congregation,
I greet you all in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
I sincerely congratulate the youth fellowship office bearers and members of St. Paul’s
Church for coming out with a Youth Newsletter for the church.
It is a challenge to keep the congregation connected with God, church and with each
other. Though at times we organise special occasions to bring them together and keep
them connected, the consistency is a challenge. Therefore, this Newsletter will help the
congregation, especially, the young people, to be connected with the Church and its
ministries. In order to be connected it is important to communicate. This will
communicate the mission and ministries of the church and youth’s spiritual and social
activities.
I once again congratulate the youth fellowship and the editorial team for the
meaningful initiative, which could connect the congregation through communication.
Regards,
Rev. Christy Gnanadasan

From the Youth Desk...

A Message from the Youth Secretary
Dear Church family,
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
On behalf of our youth fellowship, I want to express heartfelt gratitude for your
unwavering support and prayers. Your encouragement inspires us to continue growing
in faith and serving our community with joy and dedication.
As we step into another exciting season, we reflect on our past achievements and
look forward to the opportunities God has placed before us. This newsletter is a
testament to our journey—our spiritual growth, events, and testimonies. We pray that
it encourages and strengthens everyone who reads it.
May God continue to lead and bless us as we serve together.
With gratitude,
Jemima Hepzibha A.
 What we’re about...

The Youth Fellowship of St. Paul’s church is a

community of young believers dedicated to
growing in faith, building meaningful
relationships, and serving God together.
We gather every Sunday after church service
for a time of fellowship, worship and prayer. Our
meetings are a time for spiritual growth,
encouragement, and fun as we explore God’s
Word and its relevance in our lives. Join us and
be part of this journey of faith.
 Highlights of the Last quarter...
Engaging Events & Activities
Our Youth fellowship has been actively involved in various events over the past few months:

Our team participated in Basketball

& Football matches conducted by
Wesley Tamil Church, Haines Road, in
October 2024. Our basketball team
advanced to the semi-finals.

Our team also took part in the

Throwball tournament organized by
the same church, emerging as
Champions and proudly securing
the rolling trophy.

Breakfast stalls were arranged as a

part of fund raising for the youth.
Bible quiz and Treasure hunt was
conducted to deepen the knowledge
of the Word of God.
Highlights of the Last quarter...

The youth actively contributed and

took part in the Harvest festival.

Strum’24 was a Gospel Fest

conducted by the Wesley Tamil
Church. Our youth went on to win
many prizes in events like bible quiz
and singing. We were awarded with
the overall runner-up trophy.

St. Andrew’s Church conducted

Arpith’24 - 'An offering of Talents'.
It was an Inter-church Youth Festival
organised in November 2024. Our
youth won prizes in cooking without
fire and western duet .
Highlights of the Last quarter...
The Youth Retreat, held in Nov,
was led by Timothy Thomas &
VAAM team, bringing the youth
together for a time of engaging
activities and meaningful
learning under the theme,
'Acts of Relentless Kindness.'

Youth Sunday is an annual event

where the youth actively participate
and take the lead in a portion of the
church service, showcasing their
talents and serving God.

December is a season of
celebration and joy, and the
St. Paul's Carol Service
beautifully highlighted the birth
of Jesus Christ through heartfelt
songs and a captivating play.
This event was a collaborative
effort by all the fellowships of
the church, and the youth played
their role enthusiastically.
Highlights of the Last quarter...

Bringing the Christmas cheer

through caroling in different
old-age homes in the city
delighted the people and
offered the youth valuable
insights and experience.
Highlights of the Last quarter...

We kick-started 2025 with the

Annual Sports Day on Family
Sunday at Goodwills Girl’s school.
Our youth actively participated in
the events and contributed to its
success by volunteering cheerfully.

Our youth enthusiastically

participated in Troika, organized
by Holy Trinity Church.
We won in multiple categories,
including charades, street play
and solo singing. Our collective
efforts earned us the Overall 2nd
Runner-up trophy of Troika’25.
Faith in Action
Testimonies
Our faith journey is strengthened through the testimonies of those who have
experienced God’s hand in their lives.
TESTIMONY 1
Praise to the Lord Jesus
I studied my BSc in Nursing from 2007 to 2011 in Bangalore. When I joined the first year, I
learned that the government offers a scholarship for professional courses based on
certain eligibility criteria. The scholarship amount is ₹30,000. Some of my batchmates,
including myself, applied for this scholarship.
One day, we received information from the management that the scholarship was no
longer available. I felt very sad because my family faced financial difficulties, and I still
had an outstanding balance on my fees. The scholarship had been my only hope. That
evening, I went to the hostel prayer meeting. During the prayer, the warden spoke these
words: 'Don’t focus on the situation; focus only on God. He is the Creator of heaven and
earth.' At that moment, I felt God speak directly to my heart through those words.
In our batch, the hostel students would conduct a 24-hour chain prayer once a month
and keep a prayer request note. We would mark a tick for answered prayers and strike
through if God said 'no'. Those of us who had applied for the scholarship would strike
through our requests. My friends urged me to do the same, but I told them, 'I don’t
believe in the government; I believe in the Lord Jesus. It may take time, but I will receive
it.' So, I placed my trust in Jesus and continued praying during the 24-hour chain prayer.
This happened in 2008.
During my final year, the management called in students with outstanding fees. I went to
request permission to sit for the exams, with the understanding that my certificate would
be withheld until I cleared the dues. I also suggested that I work for the college as an
assistant lecturer, as this was a common practice in the institution. While I was there, the
chairman crossed paths with me. He returned shortly afterward and asked why I was
present. I explained my financial difficulties, and he asked me to write a letter. In that
letter, he wrote the following: "Since Jini is efficient in studies, she has been granted a
scholarship of Rs. 30,000/-." This happened in 2011.
Shobajini P
Faith in Action
TESTIMONY 2
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”
2 Corinthians 12:9

Indeed, his splendor and majesty have unfurled wonderfully in my life for all to witness
and proclaim His greatness. My very existence is by the sheer grace and mercy of Jesus
Christ my Savior. Above all the blessings that God has showered upon me, the gift of
life and the opportunities given by him to stand as a testimony before the world fills my
heart with gratitude. This testimony outlines critical elements in my life where the
impossible was made possible. Back in 2017 when I was pursuing the second year of my
engineering, I met with an accident that would limit my physical capabilities for the rest
of my life. What seemed like a simple bruise took me to the Operation Theatre (OT) with
my parents praying fervently for my quick recovery. The accident resulted in the
complete tear of my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in my left knee. This did not seem
like a serious injury initially but as the days went by, I was unable to walk without pain
and inconvenience. Soon, it was decided by my parents and doctors to operate on my
leg and reconstruct the torn ligament in Oman as my father had support from the
hospital there. God had facilitated every step of the journey for us. The availability of
the surgeon, the clearing of the operation theatre queue despite not making any prior
reservations (getting an OT on time requires at least one month of prior appointment in
Oman), the timely availability of the OT team, appropriate facilities for physiotherapy,
clearance from the Airport Authority for my wheelchair and crutches assistance,
clearance of documents by the Indian embassy in Oman, availability of flight tickets,
money for all the processes, and constant support from family, friends, and well-
wishers. What seemed like the giant walls of Jericho, all came crumbling down to allow
for a hassle-free transit. On completion of the surgery, I recovered completely and was
able to lead a normal life. However, things were about to change quickly. In April
2024, I received a call from my father’s colleagues stating that he was complaining of
chest pain and wanted me to come over. Shaken by the news, I immediately went to my
vehicle at the parking and prayed, “God please be with my father! Let it not be what
they say it is”.
Faith in Action
I left to meet my father, troubled yet confident in God’s unwavering support. My mother
had already received word and was waiting for my arrival to go to the hospital. I was
riding my two-wheeler while constantly murmuring prayers. Suddenly, a vehicle’s tyre
burst in my adjacent lane and bumped into another vehicle that swerved into me –
which led me to crash into the footpath. It seemed very unreal that such coincidences
should occur on the same day. I was dragged under my vehicle for a considerable
distance with the same leg that was operated previously stuck under the two-wheeler.
As the dust settled, all I could think about was my father, who was admitted to the
hospital while I lay there helplessly on the road, covered in dust and blood. Fortunately,
I did not have any other major injuries other than my disrupted knee. In the accident, I
also realized that my phone was taken by someone in the crowd as soon as I crashed. I
had lost all means of contact with my family and was left with onlookers surrounding
the scene. A gentleman placed me on my two-wheeler and took me home. My mother,
already terrified by the news of my father, broke down on seeing me in that state. Even
through that, God had given my mother the courage and composure to handle the
situation.
At this point, my father was taken to the cardiologist, and an angiogram was done,
which pointed out that there was a block in one of his arteries. I was rushed to the
hospital by my uncle and mother for first aid and scans. My scans revealed that the
same ligament (ACL) in the same leg was torn again! This time, a severe meniscus tear
and condylar fractures accompanied it. I was taken home, and my father was
scheduled for stenting by the cardiologist. My uncle and mother accompanied my
father in the ICU after his procedures. I lay at home shaken by the situation while
feeling angry at myself for the problem that had arisen. I kept checking up on the
situation at the hospital with my mother and uncle over call and got to know that my
father was out of danger. It was indeed an answered prayer and God-given relief.
After 48 hours at the hospital, my father was brought home, and I was taken to the
hospital for diagnosis. The surgeons pointed out that my knee was completely unstable
and required an ACL repair reconstruction surgery to be done immediately. This time it
was even more complicated as the knee was previously operated on and had other
complications.
Faith in Action
However, God gave us the right people at the right time, and at the right place. The
surgery was completed, and God’s hand was upon us as a family on the path to
recovery. This time was also crucial as it set me back by six months during the critical
days of my PhD. My father was soon recovering and supported me with my recovery as
well. Throughout all those grueling moments, we had only prayer to lean on and God’s
promises to hold onto. As a family, despite what stage of life we were in, we always
turned to God and cast all our burdens on him. Constant prayers and faith in Christ
kept us afloat and helped us overcome these obstacles. The key takeaway from our
experiences in life is that God is not just a last resort at times of need and disaster; he
is an everlasting source of strength and hope – a constant. Be it blessing or curse, life or
death, in God we trust. And as for me and my household, we will always serve the lord.
Leslie Dass P.

Book suggestions
Sources to encourage
you to read the Bible
regularly.
Anime Parables
by Sam T Rajkumar
Me & My Bible Full
Bible reading plan
by Arun Jebakumar
Youth Chronicles
Rise and Shine: Youth on a Mission
We’re not just young; we’re chosen—chosen to be a light in dark places, to bring
hope where it’s needed, and to live boldly for Christ. As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us,
God’s plans are filled with hope, purpose, and a future that reflects His glory. It’s
time we step into that calling with confidence and faith.
The world is watching. Through our words, actions, and faith, we can inspire
change and reflect God’s boundless love. 1 Timothy 4:12 challenges us to lead by
example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Age is no barrier to influence
when we live as testimonies of God’s grace.
This year, as a Youth Fellowship, let’s rise above challenges, break barriers, and
grow deeper in faith. Together, let’s dedicate ourselves to acts of service, bold
outreach, and unwavering faith, making an impact that echoes beyond our church
walls.
We are a generation on a mission—called to rise, shine, and glorify Him in
everything we do. Let’s live boldly for His name!
In Him,
Priya Leslin

He calmed the storm to a

whisper and the waves of the
sea were hushed.
Psalm 107:29

Andrea Shannon D
Youth Chronicles
Christianity’s Role in Promoting Equality for Marginalized Communities
Christianity has played a significant role in promoting equality for marginalized
communities in India, particularly the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes
(ST). Christianity became a powerful force in the upliftment of these backward
communities. Through their efforts, many found new hope and opportunities for a
better life.
Being a Christian we usually forget where the majority of our community originated,
Christianity has played a big role in helping backward communities in India, like the
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, by bringing them- education, equality, and
opportunities, that they were often denied because of the caste system. Over the
years, Christian missionaries and the teachings of Christianity have worked to break
down the barriers of discrimination that held these communities back.
Christian missionaries set up schools, hospitals, and social welfare institutions that
enabled students and patients from all communities, regardless of their caste. These
institutions helped break the rigid caste boundaries that existed in traditional Indian
society, for example establishing schools and orphanages that were primarily meant
for Dalits, teaching them not only literacy but also vocational skills, thereby
improving their economic status.
Christian communities advocated for the social and political rights of Dalits and
other marginalized groups. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who fought for the welfare of the
Dalit rights, had a strong relationship with Christianity. Ambedkar studied Christian
teachings and, although he eventually chose Buddhism, he acknowledged the
importance of Christianity's role in providing dignity and equality to the oppressed.
As a result, many Dalits, particularly in regions like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and
Maharashtra, converted to Christianity as a way to escape the social injustice and
discrimination they faced under caste-based practices. Thus embracing Christianity,
which provided them with a sense of equality and dignity.
Christianity’s impact on the SC and ST communities in India is significant in its
contribution to challenging the deeply rooted social hierarchies of the caste system.
Through education, social reform, and the promotion of equality.
Daniel Xavier
Youth Chronicles
Faith in the Digital Age: Curating Content that Nurtures Your Soul
Let’s face it, asking someone to drop their phone and pick up a Bible after four hours
of doom-scrolling or binging a 10-episode series is like asking the Israelites to stop
grumbling in the desert; easier said than done. Technology is here to stay, and if
we're going to spend hours glued to our screens, why not make it spiritually fulfilling?

Here's the good news: you don't have to delete your apps and relocate to a
mountain to grow spiritually. Instead, take little measures to replace your normal
content with items that’ll help you connect with God. Whether you enjoy music,
movies, memes, or listening to your friends rant, here’s a guide to upgrading your
digital life for the better (or holier).

❖ Mobile Applications- Glorify

Do you find yourself waking up and immediately diving into Instagram or Facebook?
Try Glorify instead—a faith-based app to start your mornings with prayer,
devotionals, and reflection, all in just 10 minutes a day. Your soul will thank you.

❖ Podcasts- Whether you're stuck in traffic or doing laundry, these podcasts can
help you stay connected to scripture and faith-based reflections during your day.
I. Christ with Coffee on Ice - A refreshing, laid-back chat about faith and scripture
over…you guessed it, coffee.
II. On Water Podcast – Thoughtful reflections and conversations that encourage
listeners to grow in their faith.
III. With The Perrys – Dives into real, honest discussions about faith, marriage, and
culture from a biblical perspective.

❖ Series/Movies- To Netflix and (actually) chill with Jesus, start here:

I. The Chosen (angelstudios.com) - Imagine Jesus with a sense of humor, depth, and
relatable humanity. You’ll laugh, weep, and intentionally binge-watch the entire
thing.
Youth Chronicles
II. Miracles from Heaven (Netflix) - Spoiler alert: tissues are non-negotiable. This
movie is all about faith, hope, and miracles, a workout for the tear ducts.
III. The Shack (movie, Amazon Prime) - Deep, thought-provoking and will leave you
rethinking everything, including how God might show up in your life (or as your
neighbor)
IV. Jesus Revolution (movie, Netflix) - An uplifting retelling of a '70s spiritual
awakening. Warning: you might leave wanting to buy a tie-dye shirt.

❖ Instagram Accounts- Because we could all use a little more Jesus and a little less
influencer drama
I. @trishafenimore - Uploads 1-minute sermons about her life as a former atheist,
racist, and alcoholic. Using raw storytelling, she weaves faith into the messiness of
real life, making it super relatable.
II. @paigeylizabeth - A cozy corner of Instagram filled with heartfelt prayers and
gentle reminders to live on purpose with purpose
III. @prestonmorrison - Bold, no-nonsense reflections that’ll challenge and inspire your
faith.

❖ Youtube channels- Channels to redeem your soul from the brain rot your
algorithm thinks you want.
I. The Bible Project - If Pixar made Theology videos, it’d be here.
II. Streams Studio - A collection of refreshing conversations about faith and inspiring
testimonies.
III. Jon Jorgenson – Spoken word poetry and meaningful discussions that’ll make your
heart yearn for Jesus.
IV. Melody Alisa - Real talk on faith, navigating life, and growing spiritually.

❖ Music- Because Jesus deserves a spot in your ‘On Repeat’ list.

I. Forrest Frank - chill & vibey (personal faves–never get used to this, miracle worker)
II. Luke Bower- soulful lyrics paired with acoustic magic (haunted, not my home)
Youth Chronicles
III. Keiran the Light - Gospel meets rap, because who says you can’t spit bars for
Jesus? (judgment day, God got me)
IV. Jordan Feliz - funky, upbeat tracks (the King is alive, the river)
V. Lee Vasi - if discernment from the Holy Spirit was something tangible, it’d be her
voice (your will, teach me)

Disclaimer: All these recommendations are great, but let’s not forget they’re
secondary resources. Nothing can replace the Bible, the true Word of God. These are
essentially others’ perspectives and interpretations of His Word. To truly get to know
God, hear it straight from His POV. Start small—swap one Insta scroll for something
that actually feeds your soul. Soon, your routine will have way less doom and a lot
more divine!
Angelika Naomi Rozario

Krithika Sharon
Youth Chronicles
News Report: Resurrecting Laughter - A Modern Twist on the Timeless
Miracle of Lazarus' Return
(If the miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection happened in today’s time)

Death ain’t scary no more

Lazarus was reportedly caught rising from the dead by the viral sensation Jesus of
Nazareth. An entire crowd witnessed the scene in awe as a man in grave clothes
walked out.
Lazarus was the brother to Martha and Mary, and their family lived in Bethany, which
is located in Judea, south of the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem. Four days back,
Lazarus was ill, prompting Martha and Mary to send for Jesus. In their message to
Him, they said, “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” Jesus, on receiving the news about
Lazarus, did what we consider a peculiar thing. He lingered where he was for two
more days. The people reportedly say that this was one particular family he loved the
most, yet, he did not have the compassion to heal him immediately.
Upon questioning the disciples, we learn that they were heading to Bethany,
unaware of Lazarus' sickness. In previous reports about this Nazarene, we saw that
the Jews had sought to stone Him during His last visit. But that does not seem to be
the reason for his delayed appearance at His dear friend’s funeral.
When He did arrive at Bethany, they found Lazarus had died four days. As Jesus
made His way to the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus, we followed a brief talk
between Martha and Jesus. She lamented that her brother would not have died had
Jesus been there. She further displayed her belief in His power by saying God would
have given Him whatever Jesus asked of Him. Jesus told her Lazarus would rise again
and she in her innocence replied she knew he would rise again in the resurrection at
the last day. Jesus replied with this resounding message: “I am the resurrection and
the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who
lives and believes in Me shall never die”. The only disbelievers were found to be the
Sadducees and Non-believers of Jesus.
Youth Chronicles
It is worth noting that the crowd did confront Jesus, questioning why He hadn’t
healed Lazarus earlier, as He had done for the blind man, and why He let His beloved
friend die. Yet, from the events that followed we see that, HE knew it was for the
glory of God; that the Son of God may be glorified through it- And YET HE WEPT.
Soon, Jesus had asked for the tomb of Lazarus to be opened, for which Martha softly
mentioned that it would smell. All that we know next was that Jesus thanked God
and cried, “Lazarus, come forth!”
That’s when the crowd gasped in wonder as a dead man in grave clothes walked out
and it indeed was LAZARUS!!
Death is dead. Fear is dead. Lazarus laughs because he has nothing to lose, for this
man, Jesus Christ, is here to save the lost.
N Newhaniel David & N Natania Kiruba

"When the righteous cry for help,

the Lord hears and delivers them
out of all their troubles. The Lord
is near to the brokenhearted and
saves the crushed in spirit."
(Psalm 34:17-18)

Andrea Shannon D
Till next time...

Thank you for being a part of our journey as a

youth fellowship. We acknowledge the hard work of
the volunteers, leaders, and participants who have
ensured the smooth sailing of the fellowship. We
welcome your input on improvements and priorities
for the coming months.

“Encourage one another, be of one

mind, live in peace. And the God of
love and peace will be with you.”
II Corinthians 13:11

Blessings,
SPC Youth Fellowship Team

Edited by : N Natania Kiruba &

Abhishek Ratnam J

Stay connected with us for updates and join us in our upcoming events!