SAINT GEORGE
Malankara Orthodox Church Ottawa
Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Student Movement (MGOCSM)
The origin of Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Student Movement (MGOCSM) can be traced as far back as to 1908. Its precursor is the Syrian Student Conference formed by a group of Orthodox high school and university students in Madras, India (Chennai). The objectives of the Syrian Student Conference were to engage the students in a structured spiritual and holistic life. Later in 1960, the organization adopted the name MGOCSM, after the saint of Malankara, Parumala Mar Gregorios of Blessed Memory. The units of MGOCSM were then opened through out the country. Now there are MOGOCSM units attached to all the Indian Orthodox churches. It is a vibrant movement of the youth in the church.
The three mottos of MGOCSM - Worship, Study, and Service serve as the guiding principles for its activities and mission. These mottos are designed to shape the lives of its members and contribute to both their spiritual growth and their social impact.
Worship:
Worship is the heart of the MGOCSM, emphasizing the importance of gathering together as a community to honor and glorify God. It provides a space for members to come together in prayer, praise, and thanksgiving, fostering a deep, collective connection with God through Christ. This communal worship serves as a foundation for the spiritual life of each member and helps them remain grounded in their faith as they face life's challenges.
Study:
The second motto of MGOCSM encourages a commitment to learning and personal growth, particularly through the study of the Holy Bible and the Orthodox faith and beliefs. The movement recognizes the vital importance of understanding the Scriptures and the rich theological heritage of the Orthodox Church. This study also goes hand-in-hand with academic excellence, as members are urged to succeed in their educational pursuits, striving for balance between their spiritual life and secular achievements. By deepening their knowledge of God’s Word and Orthodox teachings, members can live out their faith in more meaningful and informed ways.
Service:
The third motto, Service, calls members to actively participate in the church’s mission of spreading the Gospel and extending help to those in need. The movement emphasizes outreach, encouraging members to serve others through acts of charity, community service, and evangelism. Helping the poor, supporting the needy, and offering a message of hope through the Gospel are essential aspects of living a Christian life. Through these acts of service, MGOCSM members embody the teachings of Christ, reaching out to others and making a tangible difference in their communities.
By focusing on Worship, Study, and Service, the MGOCSM creates a balanced approach to spiritual development, intellectual growth, and social responsibility. These principles guide the members to live as active and faithful Christians, contributing to the life of the church and to the world around them. Through their commitment to these mottos, the members are empowered to be ambassadors of the Orthodox faith, spreading love, compassion, and understanding wherever they go.