Department of Ecumenical Relations

Rev. Dr. Gideon Jebamoni, formerly our Diocesan Presbyter, is presently serving as a Priest in the Episcopal Diocese of New York and also as Chaplain for Prison Ministry in New York. He has been a solid partner with our Diocese for more than two decades, frequently inviting our Diocesan Pastors to New York, USA, in his capacity.

On 28th October 2025, Rev. Dr. Gideon Jebamoni visited our Bishop and personally discussed the possibilities of pooling resources for various ministries, including:

• Kalyani Mission
• Marthamma and Health Programmes
• Women Clergy Empowerment Initiatives

He emphasized the importance of exchange programmes and visitation opportunities for women clergy, which would pave the way for studying and participating in the programmes of the Ecumenical Workshop in New York. Preliminary steps have already been initiated to take these proposals forward.

Rev. Dr. Prof. Samuel Meshack, Pro-Chancellor of Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong, Meghalaya, paid a courtesy visit to our Diocese. During this meeting, fruitful discussions were held regarding the possibilities of affiliating the Diocesan Christian Education Board, Lay Preachers, and Certificate Courses with Martin Luther Christian University.

The meeting paved the way for deeper partnership and collaboration in ministry.

Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. A.Paul Francis Ravichandran extended a formal invitation to Rev. Dr. Garry and his wife, who serves as the UCC Head in the USA, to attend the Madras Diocesan Council (MDC) 2027.

Rev. Dr. Garry Vankennen (New York State Council of Churches) – Jan 27, 2026

• Key engagements: Meeting with Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. A. Paul Francis Ravichandran and diocesan leaders; Visits to Kalyani Hospital and Rainy Hospital
• Focus areas: Healthcare ministry, ecumenical partnership with New York State churches

Rev. Dr. Clive Samson (Episcopal Diocese of Missouri, USA) – Feb 5, 2026

• Key engagements: Meeting with Bishop Ravichandran and diocesan leaders; Visit with Bishop Amma
• Focus areas: Ministerial exchange, empowerment of women clergy, youth ministry, diaspora connections

• Episcopal visitation to the Diocese of Missouri and the New York State Church Council, marked by fruitful dialogue on theological education, immigrant ministry, and ecumenical partnership.
• In New Jersey, the Bishop was conferred the Doctorate in Ministry, recognizing his contributions to pastoral leadership, ecumenical relations, and global mission.

Bishop Deon K Johnson, The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri; Dr. Henry Kuo, the Dean of the Eden Theological College, St Louis, Missouri; and Dr Julie Jennings, the Associate Dean and The Director for International Students.