Founding Members

Honoring Our Heritage

Founding Members

The Bergen County Malayalee Christian Fellowship was established through the vision, faith, and dedication of pioneering families and leaders who believed in creating a unified Christian fellowship for Malayalees in Northern New Jersey.

Joseph Varkey (Raju)

Visionary Founder

In the summer of 1985, Joseph Varkey invited local Malayalee families to meet in Bergenfield, New Jersey, initiating the conversations that eventually led to the formation of BCMC Fellowship.

Abraham Varghese

Founding Member

Among the early participants in the initial gatherings, Abraham Varghese played an important role in supporting the vision of a united Christian fellowship in Bergen County.

Thomas George

Founding Member

An early supporter of the fellowship, Thomas George participated in the foundational discussions that shaped the mission and purpose of BCMC.

George Philip

Founding Member

George Philip was among the first group of community members who came together to establish a platform for Christian fellowship and unity.

Fr. Babu K. Mathew

First President

Following the formation of the organization, Fr. Babu K. Mathew was nominated as President and later elected to lead BCMC beginning in 1987.

Sebastian Joseph

Early Member & Historian

An active participant in the fellowship's early years, Sebastian Joseph helped preserve and document BCMC's founding history for future generations.

The Beginning of BCMC Fellowship

In 1985, a small gathering of Malayalee Christians met in Bergenfield, New Jersey, to discuss the need for an organization that could unite believers from different Christian denominations. Their vision was to create a fellowship where families could worship together, celebrate their faith, and support one another.

These discussions eventually led to the formation of the Bergen County Malayalee Christian Fellowship (BCMC). An ad-hoc committee was organized, and Fr. Babu K. Mathew was chosen to lead the fellowship as its first President. The first Christmas and New Year celebration drew nearly 600 participants and became a defining moment in the history of the organization.

Today, BCMC continues to build upon the foundation laid by these visionary leaders, carrying forward their commitment to Christian unity, fellowship, and service.