Petition from Shaffer Memorial Church Members

To

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Vincent Vinod Kumar
Bishop
CSI Karnataka Central Diocese

Respected Bishop in Christ,

Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
We, the members of the Shaffer Memorial Church, write this letter with  deep respect for your episcopal authority and prayerful concern for the pastoral well-being of our congregation. We humbly and earnestly request your kind consideration to retain our present Pastor, Rev. Raju S, at Shaffer Memorial Church for the completion of his full pastoral term, as he is approaching the end of two years of service with us.

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We wish to respectfully draw your attention to the fact that a similar petition was submitted last year, requesting that his transfer be deferred. Our present appeal arises not out of resistance to diocesan discipline, but from the lived pastoral realities of our congregation and the visible fruits of Rev. Raju aiyah's ministry among us.

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Since assuming pastoral charge, Rev. Raju has demonstrated exceptional commitment and shepherd-like care. He has almost completed personal house visits to every family in the congregation, fostering trust, spiritual encouragement, and a renewed sense of belonging. In moments of illness and distress, he has been consistently available, responding promptly to sick calls and standing faithfully with families during times of vulnerability.

We also wish to highlight his significant role in harmonising the various fellowship groups within the church. Through his patient guidance and inclusive leadership, cordial relationships have been strengthened among the youth, women’s fellowship, senior citizens, Sunday school, and men’s fellowship. This spirit of unity has positively transformed the internal life of the church.

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Of particular note is his outreach to families who had earlier been irregular or absent from church life. Through personal engagement and 
pastoral sensitivity, many such families have returned to active participation. This has resulted in a visible and testimonial increase in 
regular Sunday worship attendance. Rev. Raju shares a genuine emotional bond with the congregation, one that is deeply felt and widely 
acknowledged.

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At this crucial juncture, we firmly believe that continuity in pastoral leadership is essential for consolidating these gains. Stability in ministry is vital for nurturing spiritual growth, sustaining unity, and ensuring long-term pastoral care. A premature transfer, we fear, may disrupt the progress made and unsettle a congregation that is presently experiencing renewal and cohesion.

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Therefore, with humility and hope, we plead with your good self to graciously permit Rev. Raju S to continue his ministry at Shaffer Memorial Church for his full term. We assure you of our prayers, cooperation, and obedience to the Diocese in all matters.

Thanking you for your pastoral concern and kind consideration, and seeking your prayers and blessings.

Yours obediently in Christ,
Congregants of the Shaffer Memorial Church