The 122nd annual Maramon Convention organised by the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association (MTEA) attached to the Mar Thoma Syrian Chruch of Malabar came to a close at its traditional venue on the riverbed of Pampa at Maramon near Kozhencherry on Sunday afternoon.
Delivering the valedictory message, the Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Joseph Mar Thoma, said that the scorching summer sun has started drying up various streams and the believers should pray for rains.
He said the Church has been denying entry for women to the Maramon Convention venue from 6.30 p.m. to ensure their security and safety during night hours.
The Metropolitan said it was unfortunate that certain quarters have tried to trigger a controversy over this traditional custom and practice.
However, the women believers have kept themselves away from the convention venue from 6 p.m. itself, this year, expressing their active support to the Church in protecting this century-old custom and practice, he said.
Addressing the forenoon session, the Metropolitan said the Church has been paying tax to the government for permission to use the riverbed of Pampa at Maramon for conducting the convention for the past several decades.
He said the Mar Thoma Church has always been a strong advocate of environment conservation.
P.J.Kurien, Rajya Sabha Duputy Chairman, and V.M.Sudheeran, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee president, were among those who attended the forenoon session
The valedictory session was presided over by the MTEA president Euyakim Mar Coorilos Episcopa.
Lord Griffiths, evangelist from United Kingdom, delivered the religious discourse at the valedictory session.