Orthodox parish hosts first-ever Christian devotional music event in Muscat

MUSCAT: The Mar Gregorios Orthodox Maha Edavaka (MGOME), an Indian Orthodox parish, in Ruwi hosted a Christian bhajan (devotional music event) titled ‘Stuthiyude Vazhiyil’ (‘In the Path of Praise’).

Described by organisers as the first such devotional musical programme in the Sultanate of Oman, the event was held as part of the valedictory function of the Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Youth Movement (MGOCYM) for 2025–2026.

The programme was held on Friday October 2 at St Thomas Church Hall in Ruwi, bringing together hundreds of members of the Christian community, music enthusiasts and faithful from different denominations across Oman.

Priests and representatives of sister churches attended the programme and extended their blessings, contributing to an atmosphere of fellowship and prayer.

Coordinated by George Samuel and Benson Skaria, ‘Stuthiyude Vazhiyil’ combined Indian devotional musical traditions with Christian hymns and songs of praise. The choir and instrumentalists performed a selection of devotional compositions, with the programme receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience.

The musical presentation formed the highlight of the MGOCYM valedictory function, which also recognised the contributions of its members and volunteers during the 2025–2026 period.

Parish leaders commended the youth movement for organising the devotional programme and bringing together younger and older members of the community through music and worship.

The organisers also expressed appreciation to the choir members, musicians, coordinators and community members whose efforts contributed to the programme.

‘Stuthiyude Vazhiyil’, meaning ‘In the Path of Praise’, sought to bring together Christian devotional traditions and Indian musical forms while highlighting fellowship and worship within the expatriate Christian community in Oman.