MMVS | STIOC25

Martha Mariam Vanitha Samajam

Saint Mary’s Women’s Association

Saint Mary’s Women’s Association (Martha Mariam Vanitha Samajam) is the women’s association of the Indian Orthodox Church. It is a vibrant association of the women and depends on the intercession of Holy and Ever Virgin Saint Mary, the Mother of our Lord.

The group meets on the third Sunday of alternate months after the Holy Qurbana. The meeting will start with the prayers and intercession of Saint Mary. The group then meditates and discusses a topic of interest.

The other activities include the special prayers for sick and bedridden, prayers for expectant mothers and fund-raising for charity at home and abroad.

Bible Study & Spiritual Growth

MMVS actively fosters spiritual growth through Bible study sessions led by Achen, where members engage in scripture-based lessons and interactive Q&A discussions.

In 2025, the MMVS sisterhood at our church was introduced to Faith Beacon – a forum for MMVS fellowship with our Vicar. Achen shares with the group great content periodically, to read/listen and reflect in our own time and discuss with the group during the fellowship sessions arranged. The quick connect sessions are organized on the third Sundays of alternate months, after Holy Qurbana.

Additionally, MMVS members participated in the NEAD Annual Bible Reading Initiative (August 10th - August 16th 2025), joining churches across the diocese to complete a week-long reading of the entire Bible.

Through these initiatives, MMVS continues to strengthen faith, build biblical knowledge, and encourage meaningful scriptural discussions within the community.

Church Fundraisers

The MMVS team actively organizes and leads various fundraising initiatives, bringing the community together to support the church.

Pickle Sale – The team hosts a Pickle Making & Sale event, with full participation from church members. This event raises funds to support church initiatives while fostering fellowship.

Bake Sale– MMVS organizes a Bake Sale, where members contribute a variety of homemade baked and cooked goods. This initiative showcases the culinary talents of our community while supporting church activities.

Plant Sale – Encouraging a love for nature, the team puts together a Plant Sale, featuring seedlings, houseplants, and garden plants. This event raises funds while promoting sustainability and community engagement.

These events highlight the dedication and teamwork of MMVS in strengthening community spirit and contributing to church growth.

Charity & Outreach Efforts

The MMVS team remains deeply committed to charitable initiatives and community outreach, supporting those in need through various efforts.

NEAD Charity Raffle – MMVS members actively participate in the NEAD Charity Raffle, helping to raise funds for various charity efforts at the diocese level. Their dedication was recognized with the Annual Award for successfully selling all assigned raffle tickets.

Diocesan Charity Contributions – Each year, the diocese allocates charitable funds to St. Mary’s Boston and our parish. In 2025, $500 worth school supplies were donated to Ascentria Care Alliance Worcester, MA-based organization that helps improving the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities facing systemic barriers. The organization collected back-to-school supplies for their Refugee and Immigrant Foster Care Programs, which would serve 150 newcomer youth who are typically working to complete high school.

Clothing Drive - We actively collected and donated clothing for the Clothing Drive organized by BWCB region team for babies in need and also for the homeless in and around New York with the help of St. Mary’s Clothing Drive, NY.

Additional Initiatives - The church contributions towards the MMVS charity funds were utilized for the following

Food drive and volunteering at Parts of the Solution (POTS), Bronx, NY.
Donation to St. Basil Academy, Garrison, NY (a Greek Orthodox campus and orphanage).

Through these initiatives, MMVS continues to extend compassion, service, and support to communities near and far, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.