The Melbourne CSI Church

Affiliated to the Synod of the Church of South India

Our Vicar

Rev. Bijumon Joseph is an ordained minister of Church of South India, East Kerala Diocese. Hails from the village of Kanchiyar in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. After completing the bachelor's degree in commerce, decided to commit for full time Church ministry and began as a village missionary. Later had the Theological education and earned B.D degree form the Senate of Serampore College Kolkata and M.Th. degree from the Methodist Theological University in Soul, Korea. Was ordained in the year 2006 and has wide experience of both urban and rural church ministry. Served the East Kerala Diocese in different capacities such as the Director of Christian education Department, Director of Dalit and Adivasi concerns department, Director of overseas partnership concerns department, Faculty of Premarital counselling course, Coordinator for COVID-19 Relief projects, Diocesan executive committee member, College Bursar, CSI Synod member, CSI Synod Executive committee member etc. had made overseas visits to different countries in Asia and Europe to represent CSI in International seminars and consultations. Was serving as the Secretary of the East Kerala Diocese and priest at the CSI St. Matthew’s church Chovoor. Married to Shiji Varghese and blessed with two boys Emmanuel and Abraham.

Our Church

One of the highlights of the ecclesial life of Melbourne today is the Parish of Ashburton which comprises the Melbourne CSI Church and the St. Matthews Anglican Church not very far from the city centre of Melbourne, one of the world's most liveable city.

The Melbourne CSI Church was initiated in 2011 as an answer to several decades of prayerful waiting of members of the Church of South India who came to Australia and settled. While they worshipped in the nearby congregations they kept desiring for a Malayalam service. The first Vicar was appointed on 2012. The church was registered as a Charity and sought and received approval of the CSI Synod as a recognised church overseas in 2015.

The Anglican Diocese of Melbourne and the St. Matthews Congregation of Ashburton reached a ministry and space sharing agreement with the Melbourne CSI Church wherein the CSI worships in the St. Matthews facility, the vicar uses their vicarage and also is Priest in Charge of St. Matthews congregation. The congregation which initially met at Mitcham Anglican Church thus relocated to Ashburton and continues to worship there now.

The Congregation is consistently growing as an inviting and welcoming space marked by the gift of hospitality. The Melbourne CSI congregation seeks to be the most needed bridge between the heart worship tradition of a people and the local worship reality that they are placed in. Within the embracing arms of the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne this is evolving to be a sought after model.

MCSI news

News updates and what's happening at Melbourne CSI Church

  • Join us at MCSI Vacation Bible School on July 5-7, 2024, where children are encouraged to immerse themselves in a journey of friendship with God. 

    Our theme for this year is 'Scuba Diving into friendship with God', symbolising a deep exploration of our relationship with the Creator. Through a myriad of engaging activities, interactive games, insightful Bible lessons, and soul-stirring songs, participants will embark on an exciting adventure of spiritual discovery. Delve into the depths of faith and connection, and experience the joy of fellowship in a vibrant and welcoming community. 

    Come and be a part of this transformative experience that promises to deepen your understanding of God and strengthen your bond with Him. 

    #churchofsouthindia #mcsi #csi #vbs

  • MCSI Life - June 2024

    June issue of MCSI Life is now available on our app, website & social media platforms. Please read and let us know your comments and feedback. Also, send us your articles for next month issue. 

    Key articles this month: 

    Vicar's Letter 

    https://www.melbournecsichurch.org.au/church-resources/ 

    #churchofsouthindia #MCSI #CSI

  • Talent and Awards Night 2024