How about a story of faith taking root far from home? Let me tell you about Saint Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church here in Auckland. It began as a small prayer group in March 2001. People yearned for a place to worship together.
The Madras Diocese Metropolitan Dr. Yakob Mar Ireniaos heard of their desire. He sent Rev. Fr. M. D Varghese from Melbourne to help. On March 29, 2003, he led their first Holy Qurbana. It was held at St. Albans Anglican Church. The congregation chose the name of Saint Dionysius Vattasseril as their patron saint.
On April 9, 2003, the congregation officially became a parish. It was the first parish named after Saint Dionysius in the Madras Diocese. The St Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church was incorporated in New Zealand on May 7, 2003.
H.G. Dr Abraham Mar Severios visited New Zealand in May 2003. He celebrated Holy Eucharist twice in Auckland. He also led the first Holy Eucharist in Hamilton. Wellington community members also enjoyed a visit.
Dr. Yakob Mar Irenaios made his first visit in August 2003. He celebrated Holy Eucharist. Four boys were ordained to serve at the altar. He started spiritual groups like Sunday School. He even launched a website developed by Mr Cherry Cherian.
In the early days, the St Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church lacked a permanent vicar. Vicars from Melbourne and Sydney helped with services. Rev Fr Thomas Varghese from Sydney celebrated Holy Qurbana in August 2003.
Rev Fr T.G. John became the first resident vicar in September 2003. He conducted regular services. He also revamped the spiritual organizations of Saint Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church.
During a visit in October 2003, Dr. Yakob Mar Irenaios wanted a permanent worship place. The membership was growing. Setting up for each service was difficult.
Rev. Fr. T.G. John left in early February 2004. Rev. Fr. Varghese Vaalayil led the first parish Feast of St Dionysius. It was held at St Chad’s Anglican Church.
Mar Irenaios visited again in April 2004. He focused on building relationships. He also developed contacts with other church leaders.
Rev. Fr. Varghese Philip Idichandy became vicar in May 2004. Regular Sunday services began. The spiritual organizations functioned consistently. Many families joined the church. Finding venues for worship remained a challenge. The need for a permanent place became clear. Rev. Fr. Idichandy started public fundraising. The Food Festival became an annual event for Saint Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church.
Mother Wendy, at St. Alban’s Church, had a vision of St. Dionysius. He asked her to accommodate his people. He said her church membership would grow. St. Alban’s had few members then. Soon, new members appeared. Mother Wendy suggested a Shrine of St. Dionysius inside St. Alban’s Church. Parishioners were overjoyed. Intercession prayers started there.
Eventually, the Auckland Car Club Hall was leased for services. It also became a community center. Rev. Fr. Shinu K Thomas took charge in June 2007.
Today, St Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church continues to thrive. It offers various ministries. These include Sunday School and youth groups. The church also has prayer groups. It also has an active women’s association. The National Youth Camp 2024 was hosted by Saint Dionysius Indian Orthodox Church Auckland.