Welcome to St George Malankara Orthdox Church Richmond VA

We are dedicated to guiding individuals towards an encounter with the transformative power of God. Our aspiration for each individual is to have a meaningful moment in the presence of God. Regardless of your background or previous church involvement, we extend a warm welcome to you.

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About Us

Discover Your Spiritual Home

The Indian Orthodox Church (also known as the Malankara Orthodox Church, Orthodox Church of the East, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, Orthodox Syrian Church of the East), is a prominent member of the Oriental Orthodox Church family. The Church traces its origins to St. Thomas the Apostle, who came to India in AD 52, established the Church and suffered martyrdom.The head of the Indian Orthodox Church is the Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan whose seat is at Kottayam, Kerala, India.

Our Vicar, Rev. Fr. Laby George Panackamattom

Rev. Fr. Laby George Panackamattom hails from the Panackamattom family of Niranam, known for its lineage of priests, and is the oldest son of Fr. George and Mrs. Annie George Panackamattom. He was highly involved in the MGOCSM student movement, serving as its central committee secretary in 1992-1993, before being ordained as a Priest on June 15th, 1999. Fr. Laby is married to Mrs. Merin Laby and they are blessed with a daughter, Lydia Ann Laby, and a son, Georgy Panackamattom Laby.

Our Faith and Mission

We believe in the Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and follow the basic faith established in the Universal Synods of Nicea, Constantinople, and Ephesus. For us, Church is not just the gathering of believers, but it is the holy catholic, apostolic community built as Christ as the corner stone, prophets, apostles and saints as the foundation, and all who are in Christ as its building blocks. Our mission is to respond to the call of our Lord Jesus Christ, to minister to those who are suffering and are in need throughout the world, sharing with them God's gifts of food, shelter, economic self-sufficiency and hope. Our congregation continues to engage families to learn and practice tradition, culture, and Biblical values. From studying the components of our Liturgy to serving the community, the traditions of our forefathers will continue to be the building blocks of our faith for future generations .For more detailed information regarding Orthodox faith, please visit Our parent diocese page.

Our History

Our Story at St George

November 20, 2010

Congregation Established / Founding

Began as a congregation. The first service was held at St. John's United Church of Christ, led by Rev. Fr. Laby George in the presence of Rev Fr. George Mathew (Benny Achen).

Approved by Metropolitan Mathews Mar Barnabas. Mr. George P Thomas and Mr. Mathew Chacko were instrumental in coordinating the first service.

2014

Regular Worship & New Location

Initial monthly services became regular.

Services were held at Westampton United Methodist Church (Location for 2014-2022), mostly led by Rev. Fr. George Mathew (Benny Achen).

2019

Sunday School Begins

The Sunday school program was initiated. Rajan George served as the Sunday school principal at that time.

2020 - 2021

COVID-19 Pause & Organization

Services were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The group used this time to organize and formalize its structure.

August 2021

Formal Registration

The group officially registered as the non-profit "St. George Malankara Orthodox Church of Richmond".

The first elected team included:

President: Fr. George Mathew (Benny Achen)
Vice President: Varughese Mathew
Secretary: Bobby Mathews
Treasurer: Baiju Cherian

It also runs a regular Sunday School and a Choir.

2023 - 2025

Increased Services & New Church Home

The location was moved to St. Cyprian Orthodox Church.

Church services increased to twice a month.

Celebrated holy week and Christmas programs

November 2025

Raising the status to Church

His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, Metropolitan of the Northeast American Diocese, visited the congregation and granted approval to elevate the status of St. George Malankara Orthodox Church of Richmond from a Congregation to a Church.

Events

Worship Services & Community Events

We regularly host worship services and community events to bring our church together in faith and fellowship. Our events are designed to nurture spiritual growth, foster a sense of community, and provide opportunities for worship and service. From weekly services to special celebrations and outreach programs, we strive to create meaningful experiences for all members of our church family. We warmly invite everyone to join us in these gatherings, where we can grow spiritually and support one another in our faith journey. Click here to see upcoming church services or Follow us on Facebook for updates

Connect

We Believe God is Transforming Our Community!

Everyone interested in deepening their understanding of the Malankara Orthodox faith or seeking to enhance their relationship with God through worship is warmly invited. We meet regularly for worship services, Bible studies, and various community events. Whether you are new to the faith or have been a lifelong member, there is a place for you here. Join us as we grow together in faith and fellowship. The church schedule can be found under this link.

Church Address

2570 Huguenot Springs Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113.

Phone : 804 244 5303
Email : contact@stgeorgerva.org
Vicar :vicar@stgeorgerva.org

Social Media

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Give

Give, and It Will be Given to You

We sincerely appreciate your interest in supporting our cause. Our church remains steadfast to this day, thanks to the Grace of God and the generous contributions from our parishioners and visitors. Every donation, no matter the amount, is valued and plays a crucial role in furthering our mission of spreading the gospel and sanctifying the faithful through worship within God's church. If you feel led to contribute, please consider making a donation. May God bless you abundantly for your generosity and support. Our Zelle: stgeorgeocric@gmail.com