A Vision, A Seed, A Movement
For the Glory of Christ
What began as a small vision in the heart of one man of God has now grown into a multifaceted ministry by the grace of God with a far-reaching impact—transforming lives, families, and communities across India and beyond.
The Beginning (2000)
In June 2000, a man of God by the name of John A.C. received a clear vision from the Lord for the city of Kochi, Kerala. Moved by this divine calling, he began a Bible class at the YMCA in Ernakulam, with a few believers who were starved for the truth of God's Word.
Birth of a Church (2001)
As the fellowship grew in numbers and in faith, the Bible class was formally established as a church in January 2001 in Edappally, under the name Edappally Church of God.
Later that year, the Lord opened the way for the church to move to Edappally Toll, a place that could better receive the growing congregation He was adding to daily. From its earliest days, the church has remained steadfast in its mission—to teach the Word of God, make disciples, and bring believers into the fullness of life in Christ.
Leadership and Discipleship Vision
Under the faithful leadership of Pastor Mathew Varughese for over two decades, the church has stayed true to its God-given mission:
"To make disciples who obey all that the Lord Jesus commanded, fulfilling the Great Commission and the Great Commandments—raising mature believers who walk in servanthood and Christlikeness."
Many individuals and families have been deeply transformed and empowered through this vision; stepping into lives of purpose, leadership, and faithful service.
Media Teaching Ministry
Sanctuary Word Media
To strengthen the spiritual understanding and to expand the reach of God's Word, the church established Sanctuary Word Media, dedicated to creating quality content solely for spiritual edification. This initiative focuses on publishing and proclaiming the Word of God in various languages, making solid biblical teaching accessible to a broader audience across the globe.
Prof. P. M. Varkey's Teaching Ministry
A defining contribution to this media mission has been the in-depth and systematic teaching ministry of Prof. P. M. Varkey, a seasoned Bible teacher with prophetic insight into the Scripture.
He undertook a comprehensive study covering the entire Bible, presenting structured analysis and spiritual interpretation that, through media outreach, has become a treasured study resource.
His teachings—first developed in Malayalam, was later translated into English and Hindi—have become a spiritual feast for many, especially those with a deep hunger for God's Word.
By His divine grace, the Lord enabled the team to complete the recording of the series over the span of several years, even amidst various challenges, including the pandemic. Today, these resources serve as a powerful tool for Bible study, discipleship, and spiritual formation across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
A Church for the Churches
Under the spiritual oversight and broader vision of Evangelist Saju John Mathew, the church evolved into a church for many churches—a spiritual family that supports, empowers, and walks alongside other ministries without imposing organizational structures or denominational labels.
This open and Spirit-led approach has encouraged many fellowships and church plants across India to flourish with freedom, rooted in the truth and united in His love.
Where We Are Today
From its beginnings as a humble Bible class to a growing network of churches, media ministries, and teaching resources, the story of Edappally Church of God stands as a powerful testament to God's vision, obedience, and His divine guidance.
Today, we continue to:
Make disciples who reflect Christ in word and deed
Teach and model the commands of Jesus Christ
Equip leaders with spiritual depth and servant-heartedness
Strengthen churches and networks through shared resources
Produce Bible-based media content for multigenerational growth
Through every season, one truth remains central:
"Jesus Christ is the foundation and goal of everything we do—until every person is brought to full maturity in Him."
Join Our Journey
Be part of a movement that's transforming lives and communities through the power of Christ