Rev. Fr. K.K. Punnoose (Late)H.G. Dr. Stephanos Mar Theodosious
M.A., B.D., S.T.M.

This was the period of the highest activity in the parish. The Late Amir of Bahrain, Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Al-Khalifa, very kindly donated a plot of land for the Church, in a very convenient place. On 2nd August, 1968 theGeneral Body took the firm decision to go ahead with the construction of the church and the vicarage at an estimated cost of BD.4,000/-. Achens suggestion, that allmembers should donate a minimum of one weeks salary for this project was accepted by all.

Several well-wishers also came to our aid. The leadership given by Achen in handling this jobdeserves special praise. Due to the bold and wise step taken in this matter the parish enjoys theadvantage of having a church and vicarage of its own. This also gave incentive to our brethren in other Gulf states to follow the same path. During the construction time Achen acted as the architect,engineer, accountant, labourer and what not!! The parish members were also very co-operative, which enabled the construction to be completed as scheduled, and the church was dedicated on 14th February, 1969 by H.G. Thomas Mar Themothiose and named St. Marys Orthodox Church.

Achens Activities were not confined to the four walls of our church alone. He tried his best to have more closer contacts with other Christian denominations in the island. The Joint Christmas Carol and New Year Function was an example of one of his efforts. From Bahrain Achen was transferred to Bhilai, and while running the more responsible job of Bhilai Mission, church and the school, was selected and consecrated as Bishop 1-1G. Stephanose Mar Theodosius. Thirumeni was the co-celebrant during the consecration of the new church building.