The Annual Get Together of the CSI Parish in Sharjah, which took place after a seven-year hiatus, celebrated the talents of church members, their teamwork in organizing the programme, and heartfelt thanksgiving to God, our provider and sustainer. The event, held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 7 p.m., was attended by most of the church members and friends from sister churches.
The evening commenced with an opening prayer led by the Vicar of the CSI Parish, Sharjah. Mr. Abu Joseph welcomed the gathering, followed by the Presidential Address by Rev. Sunil Raj Philip, the Vicar of the Parish. He emphasized that God Almighty is the greatest artist, noting that the church’s mission is deeply intertwined with literature, music, art, theatre, and dance, citing several examples.
The church choir presented a beautiful African Christian song, setting a joyful tone for the evening. The Women’s Fellowship performed a skit depicting the courageous acts of Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives who saved baby Moses from Pharaoh’s decree to kill Hebrew boys. Mr. Saiju Mathew then captivated the audience with a heartfelt semi-classical Malayalam song. The young choir members followed with a lively dance to an English Christian song, and Mrs. Rincy Kaithavana dazzled the audience with her solo dance performance. The Almaya Fellowship then brought smiles to everyone’s faces with a joyful dance.
Mr. Gerald Sujesh Ezekiel performed a Mimics Parade, which the audience eagerly anticipated, entertaining as always. The Sunday School children and teachers presented a one-hour program featuring a delightful mix of dance, music, action songs, and a skit that involved almost all of the Sunday School children, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. The Almaya Fellowship continued the entertainment with a humorous song.
Mr. Ivin Koshy, the solo winner at the UAE Youth Kalamela, sang an enchanting song. A wonderful and mesmerizing dance performance by Miss Ashley Biju, Mrs. Anju Obin and Miss Elina made the stage more vibrant. Mr. Varghese Varghese showcased his captivating voice with a Malayalam Christian song. A duet featuring Mrs. Bigi Sara, the female voice solo winner at the UAE Youth Kalamela, and Mr. Ivin Koshy delivered a moving performance.
The highlight of the programme was a skit by the Senior Youth Members, which portrayed the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. With a meticulously prepared stage, carefully crafted props, and heartfelt performances from the actors and actresses, this one-act play garnered significant attention and appreciation. Mr. Sujesh directed the act, with Mr. Libin assisting in creating the backdrops and props.
The Women’s Fellowship showcased an energetic and thrilling dance performance, while the Youth Movement presented a skit conveying a powerful message against substance abuse.
In a pleasant surprise move, Mr. Robert Mathew gifted two oil paintings—a portrait of Rev. Sunil Raj Philip and Mrs. Nivi Susan George, as well as an acrylic portrait of Rev. Sunil.
Mrs. Simi Mathews delivered the vote of thanks. To culminate the Get Together 2025, the Almaya Fellowship elevated the spirit of the evening with a ‘Chendamelam,’ complete with ‘Muthukuda’ and traditional dances.
The programme concluded with a closing prayer by Mrs. Aleyamma Jacob and a benediction by the Vicar.
