About Mar Thoma Church Leeds
We are a growing Mar Thoma community in Leeds, committed to worship, discipleship, and service.
Our Story
The Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, commonly known as the Mar Thoma Church, is one of the most ancient Christian denominations in the world and traces its origins to the apostolic era. According to tradition, St. Thomas the Apostle (Mar Thoma in Syriac), a disciple of Jesus Christ, arrived on the Malabar Coast (present-day Kerala) in AD 52 and established the Christian Church in India. The region was historically known as Malankara, from which the Church derives its name.
Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Leeds History
Our journey began in January 2016, when Rev. Alexander Tharakan convened our inaugural service at St. Chad’s Church, Headingley. That landmark gathering brought together more than 100 worshippers, including members of our mother parish, Tabore Mar Thoma Church, Manchester, alongside representatives from our neighboring sister churches. Following a decade of steadfast growth and spiritual devotion, we are honored to announce the formal establishment of our new parish in Leeds—a testament to God’s faithfulness and our community’s enduring spirit.
Our journey has been guided by dedicated office-bearers since day one, beginning with our first elected officials: Dr. Prem Vettasseri (Vice President), Mr. Stalin Issac (Representative), and Lay Leaders Issac Umman and Joe Thomas.
Over the past decade, this community has flourished, leading to the formal establishment of the Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church Leeds in 2026. We hold deep gratitude for the vicars who have shepherded us through every stage of growth:
Rev. Alexander Tharakan: Provided foundational leadership in our early years.
Rev. Aji John and Rev. Thomas Baby: Offered continued spiritual guidance as we expanded.
Rev. John P. Chacko: Our first vicar, whose steadfast commitment was essential during our evolution from a prayer group to a parish.
Today, we especially acknowledge our current vicar, Rev. Subin Mathew Parayil, for his ongoing leadership as we begin this new chapter as a parish.
Furthermore, we recognize the vital contributions of our prayer group representatives who served throughout our journey: Stalin Issac, Mathews C. Mathew, Jerry Sam Philip, and Mithun John Varghese.
Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Leeds History
Our journey began in January 2016, when Rev. Alexander Tharakan convened our inaugural service at St. Chad’s Church, Headingley. That landmark gathering brought together more than 100 worshippers, including members of our mother parish, Tabore Mar Thoma Church, Manchester, alongside representatives from our neighboring sister churches. Following a decade of steadfast growth and spiritual devotion, we are honored to announce the formal establishment of our new parish in Leeds—a testament to God’s faithfulness and our community’s enduring spirit.
Our journey has been guided by dedicated office-bearers since day one, beginning with our first elected officials: Dr. Prem Vettasseri (Vice President), Mr. Stalin Issac (Representative), and Lay Leaders Issac Umman and Joe Thomas.
Over the past decade, this community has flourished, leading to the formal establishment of the Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church Leeds in 2026. We hold deep gratitude for the vicars who have shepherded us through every stage of growth:
Rev. Alexander Tharakan: Provided foundational leadership in our early years.
Rev. Aji John and Rev. Thomas Baby: Offered continued spiritual guidance as we expanded.
Rev. John P. Chacko: Our first vicar, whose steadfast commitment was essential during our evolution from a prayer group to a parish.
Today, we especially acknowledge our current vicar, Rev. Subin Mathew Parayil, for his ongoing leadership as we begin this new chapter as a parish.
Furthermore, we recognize the vital contributions of our prayer group representatives who served throughout our journey: Stalin Issac, Mathews C. Mathew, Jerry Sam Philip, and Mithun John Varghese.
2016
2026
Mission & Vision
We seek to glorify God by nurturing disciples who love God and serve their neighbours. Our ministries provide opportunities for spiritual formation, compassionate outreach, and practical support for the community.
Worship
Collective worship that centres on Scripture, prayer, and sacrament.
Learning
Bible study, youth programs, and discipleship courses for all ages.
Service
Community outreach, food support, and practical help for those in need.
Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan
Supreme Head of the Church
Rt. Rev. PD Dr. Joseph Mar Ivanios Episcopa
Diocesan Bishop
Meet Our Vicar
Rev. Subin Mathew Parayil
Vicar / President
Rev. Subin Mathew Parayil, whose home parish is Tabore Mar Thoma Church in Manchester, currently serves as the Vicar of Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Leeds. Prior to his appointment here, he served as the Vicar of Salem Mar Thoma Church in Southampton and held the distinguished position of Bishop’s Secretary.
Executive Committee
Dr. Jai Shankar
Vice President
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