The Early Days

In the late 1990s, a group of devoted believers, including Mr. Saimon Samuel, Mr. Benzy Varghese, Mr. George Varkey, Mr. George Kutty, and Mr. Jelson, felt the need for a fellowship among Malankara Syrian Christians in Hosur. They set out to find an Achen who would be willing to celebrate Holy Qurbana at least once a month. Providence intervened, and they were introduced to Paulose Achen, a man whose life's purpose was about to intersect with theirs remarkably.

The Birth of St. Gregorios Syrian Orthodox Church, Hosur

Despite his busy schedule developing the Anagalapura Mission Centre, Paulose Achen voluntarily offered to celebrate Holy Qurbana at Hosur, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the local Syrian Orthodox community.

A Historic Day

On January 6, 2001, the day of the Baptism of our Lord (Danaha), Paulose Achen celebrated his first Holy Qurbana at Hosur in a small rented shed at Blossom Matriculation School. This momentous occasion christened the small congregation as St. Gregorios Syrian Orthodox Church, Hosur.

A Memorable First Service

The first service was a remarkable event, with everything needed for the service being transported by bus from Bangalore and carried by hand to the venue. Those present still recall the dedication and effort that went into making this service possible.

A New Beginning

With Paulose Achen's commitment, the believers could now attend church services every Sunday, except for the first Sunday of the month. This was a remarkable turning point for the community, especially for those who had migrated to Hosur in the early 1990s and never thought they would have the opportunity to participate in a Holy Qurbana in their new home.

Achen's Unwavering Dedication

Despite the limited resources, Paulose Achen would travel over 120 km on his two-wheeler to reach Hosur and return to Anagalapura, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the community.

The Early Days of St. Gregorios Syrian Orthodox Church, Hosur

In the initial stages, the Sunday service attendees were few, and there was no one in Hosur to assist Paulose Achen at the altar. Undeterred, he took on the additional responsibility of bringing a small group from Bangalore to support the service.

A Growing Community

As news of the Malayalam service spread, attendance improved, and the idea of building a church in Hosur gained momentum. Although the task seemed daunting, Paulose Achen and the community had unwavering faith that God would guide them.

Acquiring a Plot of Land

A 27-cent plot in Mookandapalli, adjacent to the National Highway, was purchased with local contributions and support from Jacobite Churches in Bangalore. This marked a significant milestone in the journey towards building a church in Hosur.

Foundation Stone Laid

On September 14, 2003, His Grace Thomas Mar Thimothios, Metropolitan, and Chairperson of the Bharath Jyothi Divine Trust, celebrated Holy Qurbana at Hosur and laid the foundation stone for the Mission Centre complex. The community is forever grateful for his support and encouragement.

Initial Plans

The initial plan was to construct a two-floor building, with the top floor dedicated to the church and the ground floor for Mission activities, functioning as an extension of the Anagalapura Mission Centre.

Overcoming Obstacles

Just as construction was about to commence, several challenges arose. Delays in approvals and a boundary dispute with the adjacent plot owner hindered progress. Once these issues were resolved, a soil test revealed that the site was a former agricultural pond, requiring a pile foundation. This unexpected complication added significant expenses.

Faith and Perseverance

Despite the setbacks, Paulose Achen and the Trust members decided to proceed with the original plan, relying on faith. The situation seemed hopeless at times, but Achen remained confident that God would provide the necessary resources. The building plan was modified to add an extra floor, with the church space on the second floor.

A Long and Challenging Journey

The construction process stretched over seven years, progressing only when funds became available. Paulose Achen spent countless sleepless nights seeking solutions and exploring new avenues to raise funds.

A Temporary Solution

While the construction was still underway, arrangements were made on the first floor to conduct Sunday services, providing a temporary solution until the full-fledged church on the second floor was complete.

Milestones and Memories

Fr. Eldho John, who was actively involved with the church even before his ordination, celebrated his First Holy Qurbana at the Hosur church.

A Dream Realized

The long-cherished dream of the Hosur congregation came true on December 31, 2008, when Fr. John Ipe celebrated Holy Qurbana in the new building, marking a new era in the history of the Hosur Jacobite Church.

Rev. Fr. Febin Poothara's Contributions

The arrival of Rev. Fr. Febin Poothara brought significant changes, including regular Holy Qurbana celebrations at the Hosur church on all Sundays and important days.

Paulose Achen's Vision and Dedication

The history of the Hosur church is inextricably linked with Paulose Achen's life. His vision to establish a strong presence in the region became a reality when the building was dedicated by His Grace Thomas Mar Themotios on November 28, 2010.

A Remarkable Achievement

Despite the initial challenges and limited resources, Paulose Achen's unwavering faith, dedication, and perseverance made the impossible possible. His efforts ensured the church's establishment, and it is a testament to his unrelenting commitment.

A Lasting Legacy

It is undeniable that without Paulose Achen's tireless efforts, the Hosur church might not have become a reality. His legacy continues to inspire and guide the community, ensuring a bright future for the church.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Paulose Achen's remarkable journey began in a humble farming family on December 16, 1959, in Karukadam, Kothamangalam. He was the fourth son of M.V. Uthuppu and Mariamma, and his early life was marked by a strong spiritual inclination.

Education and Formative Years

Paulose Achen's education began at the Govt. LP School Puthuppady, followed by a challenging 8-kilometer daily walk to Fr. J.M.H School for his higher education. His interest in spiritual matters was encouraged by his uncle, Mr. Kureako, who inspired him to serve as an altar boy at St. Mary's Jacobite Church, Kararkunnam, on May 4, 1974. This experience had a profound impact on his life.

Sunday School and Spiritual Guidance

He attended Sunday school at St. Thomas Sunday School Kararkunnam and developed his oratory skills. His spiritual guru, Valiya Ashan, recognized his talents and provided guidance. He also learned Syriac under the tutelage of Fr. Paulose Mappanikat.

Teaching and Ordination

While pursuing his pre-degree course, Paulose Achen taught at St. Mary's Sunday School. His uncle's desire to see him ordained as a priest led to his ordination as deacon Koruyo on July 15, 1977, by Catholicos H.G. Thomas Mar Dionysius. He continued his education at Mar Athanasius College, completing his MA in Economics while serving as Head Master for two Sunday Schools. He later earned his B.Ed degree at Peet Memorial Training College, Mavelikara.

A Life of Service and Mission

Paulose Achen's journey continued as he worked at the Bible Society of India Kerala Auxiliary from 1986 to 1992, distributing Scriptures across Kerala. In 1988, he married Mini, and they were blessed with two children, Ruben and Maria. He was ordained as a priest by Dr. Abraham Mar Saverios Metropolitan on August 25, 1988.

International Experiences

In 1990, he traveled to Kuwait as a speaker and witnessed the invasion's impact on the people. Later, he met the Patriarch and visited holy sites in Damascus and Syria.

Education and Ministry

Paulose Achen completed his BD studies at Bishop's College, Calcutta, where he met Mother Teresa three times. He served as Vicar of St. Mary's JSO Cathedral, Bangalore, from 1995 to 1998, initiating the construction of St. Ignatius JSO Church. He then served in Sharjah from 1998 to 2000, visiting the Holy Land.

Missionary Work

In 2000, he became the administrator of Anagalapura Mission Centre, dedicating himself to full-time missionary work. With the support of Thomas Mar Timotheos and St. Mary's JSO Church, he developed the Mission Centre, inspired by Emil Bruner's words: "Church exists by its Mission as fire exists with its flame."

Other Initiatives

Paulose Achen also established the St. Mary's Snehalaya Opportunity School for mentally challenged children, built the Bishop's suite at St. Mary's JSO Cathedral, and founded St. George High School at Anagalapura.

A Life of Service and Achievement

Paulose Achen's dedication to his mission has led him to various parts of the world. In 2000, he attended the CMS Orthodox Mission Consultation in Moscow and later visited the US, speaking at the Family Conference at the Pennsylvania University Campus. He spent four months in the US, traveling extensively.

Expanding Mission Work

In 2006, he established another Mission Centre on Mysore Road, and in 2010, he started a Home for underprivileged children at the Anagalpura Mission Centre, providing education, accommodation, food, and clothing to 25 children.

Leadership Roles

Paulose Achen served as secretary of the Archdiocese of Greater India and was the first diocesan secretary of the Bangalore Diocese.

Hosur Mission Centre Initiatives

At the Hosur Mission Centre, he started the Gregorian Montessori School, a Day Care Centre, and the St. Mary's multi-faith prayer center, which has become a hub for local people to offer prayers. The Children's Home, currently under construction, will provide support to 15 poor children.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Paulose Achen's unwavering commitment to his mission has inspired countless individuals. We congratulate him on his achievements and pray for his continued service to humanity. May God bless him and his family abundantly.