Members
NAMKC Sunday School Samajam
Our Samajam is blessed with dedicated members who play a vital role in nurturing the spiritual growth of our children and guiding them in their journey of faith. Together, we work to strengthen our community by teaching the Word of God, preserving our Knanaya traditions, and living as witnesses of Christ’s love.
Being a Samajam member is not just about service, but about living a calling — to inspire, support, and lead the younger generation in their Christian walk.
NAMKC Sunday School Samajam Members
Serving Christ through commitment and community.
Joana Thomas Vadakel
Secretary
Joana was appointed Secretary of the NAMKC Sunday School Samajam in September 2024, following her active involvement since April 2023. She currently serves as the Sunday School Principal at St. Mary’s Knanaya Church, Chicago, where she plays a vital role in guiding and mentoring students. In addition, she coordinates the Kids Club, actively organizing events that foster unity among Knanaya children. Previously, Joana was a founding member of the first Knanaya church in New Zealand and contributed significantly to the Youth Association at St. Mary’s Knanaya Church in Sharjah. Known for her dedication, organizational skills, and deep passion for community service, Joana continues to be an inspiring leader within the global Knanaya community.
Ahsa Abraham Malayil
Trustee & Program Coordinator
Asha Abraham is an active member of St. Mary’s Knanaya Church in Chicago. She currently serves as Vice Principal of the Chicago parish and as Trustee of the NAMKC Sunday School Samajam. A dedicated leader in the community, Asha is also involved with the Knanaya Women’s Forum in Chicago and volunteers her time in various youth programs, supporting the growth and development of the next generation of the Knanaya community.
Tijin Jose Thaitara
Committee member & Program Coordinator
He is a member of St. Mary’s Church, Hartford, and currently serves as the Sunday School Principal. His journey in Sunday School ministry began at Mandiram Chapel, Kerala, where he served as a teacher from 2001 to 2007. With a strong commitment to nurturing the faith of the younger generation, he continues to dedicate his time and efforts to the spiritual growth of the parish community.
Reena Kuruvilla
Committee member
Reena Kuruvilla was appointed as one of the representatives for the NAMKC Sunday School Samajam. She is a dedicated member of St. James Knanaya Church, Houston, where she has been serving faithfully as a Sunday School teacher for the past three years. Reena previously played an active role in the Youth Association of St. Mary’s Knanaya Church, Sharjah, and continues to contribute to church life with great commitment. In addition, she is actively involved in the NAMKC Women’s Forum at the regional level, further demonstrating her leadership and passion for community service.
Tino Manimalethu
Committee member
From a young age, Tino was an active member of his home parish in Ranni, Kerala, where he led the church choir, sang at weddings, and worked tirelessly to raise funds for the parish. During his time in Bangalore, he was deeply involved with the Hennur Church, contributing to its construction and organizing numerous events.
Currently in Detroit, Tino is a member of St. Ephraim Knanaya Church. For many years, he has led the Sunday School and held various leadership positions, including Trustee, Secretary, and Committee Member.
He continues to wear many hats, serving as an active member of the NAMKC Committee and the NAMKC Sangamam Publicity Committee, while also being a passionate supporter of the NAMKC Sunday School Samajam. Through his dedication, he consistently advocates for the growth and spiritual formation of Knanaya children across North America.
Subin Mathew Kadakketh
Committee member
Subin Mathew was appointed as one of the representatives for NAMKC Sunday School Samajam from St. Mary’s Knanaya Church, Philadelphia, in 2025. He is an active member of the Philadelphia parish, deeply involved in various church activities. Subin has faithfully served as a Management Committee Member in both 2023 and 2024, and since 2017 he has been serving as the Sunday School Vice Principal, a role he continues to hold with dedication.
In addition, he is an active choir coordinator and singer, contributing his talents to the parish community. In 2025, he was also selected as one of the Christmas Carol Coordinators by church members. Subin’s commitment, leadership, and active participation make him a highly valued representative of St. Mary’s Knanaya Church, Philadelphia.