Maramon Convention
The
Maramon Convention is a
Christian convention held in
Maramon,
India. It is said to be the largest Christian gathering in
Asia. This gathering is hosted by the
Mar Thoma Syrian Church of Malabar, headquartered in
Tiruvalla.
It is held annually during the month of February on the vast sand-bed of the
Pampa River next to the
Kozhencherry Bridge. The first convention was held in 1896 for a period of 8 days. In 2006 the convention celebrated 111 years of existence. About two weeks before the convention, the sand bed becomes a scene of great activity. Christians from the
parishes around Maramon carry interwoven
coconut leaves,
bamboo poles and other materials for erecting the convention tent. The tent has a seating capacity in excess of fifty thousand. There is also a smaller tent erected next to the larger one for people with infants and small children. All around the tent there are temporary sheds and tents for various purposes related to the Convention. Stalls for the sale of religious literature, church offices and restaurants are allowed to operate in the vicinity of the tent under the strict control of the Church authorities.
The Maramon Convention is pre-eminently an assembly of Christians who once a year come here for listening to the Word of God as read and expounded by leaders of Christian thought from all over India as well as abroad. Preaching and
Bible study occupy the major part of the conference programme. Along with the Bible reading and discourse, singing of
hymns and praying for the sick are also held. Prayer and worship at the convention accompanied by singing.
The Maramon Convention displays co-operation and union between different sections of
Church in Kerala. It fosters an
ecumenical outlook. It is also a source of spiritual inspiration and enlightenment for thousands.
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Maramon Convention Link
