Welcome to our Church

The Journey of St. Mary’s Indian Orthodox Church, Stockport – Manchester began with a small but spiritually vibrant prayer group consisting of faithful from the areas of Manchester, Stockport, and Wythenshawe.

The first prayer meeting was held on 5th August 2023 at Brownley Green Baptist Church Hall , Wythenshawe, led by Rev. Fr. Eldo P. Varghese, Vicar of St. George Orthodox Church, Manchester. Around 25 families attended this initial gathering.

Encouraged by the enthusiasm and unity among the faithful, a second prayer meeting was conducted on 9th September 2023. Following this, the members decided to formally request His Grace, Abraham Mar Stephanos (The Metropolitan of UK, Europe and Africa), for permission to start a new congregation under the name St. Mary’s Indian Orthodox Congregation.

By the grace of God, the Bishop approved the request and appointed Rev. Fr. Eldo P. Varghese as the priest-in-charge of the new congregation.

The first Holy Qurbana of the congregation was celebrated on 14th October 2023 at St. Mark’s Parish Hall, Bredbury, officiated by Rev. Fr. Eldo P. Varghese. The service was attended by approximately 170 faithful.

Soon after, the congregation secured a long-term venue for services at Hazel Grove Methodist Church, Stockport.

In December 2023, Following the declaration and guidance of His Grace, Abraham Mar Stephanos (The Metropolitan of UK, Europe and Africa ), Rev. Fr. Binu Thomas was appointed as the new Vicar of the congregation.

In April 2024, the congregation started its Sunday School, aiming to spiritually nurture and educate the younger generation. In addition to this, the congregation organized a series of spiritually uplifting activities aimed at deepening communal bonds and fostering joy among the faithful.

In 17,18 th of January 2025, the congregation celebrated its first Church Feast in the name of St.Mary , which also marked the first official visit by His Grace, Abraham Mar Stephanos (The Metropolitan of UK, Europe and Africa), to the church—a truly blessed occasion for all members.

Also the congregation was officially registered as a charitable trust under the Church of England in May 2025—a remarkable milestone in its journey.

Acknowledging the congregation's significant growth over a short period, His Grace, Abraham Mar Stephanos (The Metropolitan of UK, Europe and Africa), by official epistle (No. E-113/AMS/2025), elevated it to the status of a church.

As we mark the formation of this church, let us give thanks to God for His abundant grace. This is more than the start of a building—it is the beginning of a spiritual journey together as one community in Christ. May this church be a light to all, a home of peace, prayer, and purpose.