Publisher's Synopsis
I have had the privilege of belonging to a writing group with Mariamma Thomas for the last few years. It has been wonderful to hear Mariamma's family stories and to observe her development as a writer. [...] The life stories and sermons of her father, Reverend Samuel and his wife provide inspiration and lessons in Christian service and their impact on the lives of many people. [...] I know that other readers will find the life lessons and different worldview interesting, informative, and entertaining as well. -Margie Schwaninger, PhD Mariamma Thomas set out to describe her father's journey in the Christian faith and his family life in India so her American children and grandchildren who spoke English, could learn about their heritage. Mariamma has done so much more, painting pictures of life in a very different culture, of her father's humble beginnings and his work as a Pentecostal pastor, of her parent's marriage and their family life. She has provided background information to help readers understand the culture and some of the difficulties her parents faced. [...] She is to be congratulated on weaving an interesting narrative which will appeal to many outside her immediate family. -Margery Franklin, M.D. Show me an organization that is efficient, progressive and dynamic, I will guarantee for sure of a person behind the scene, who led the organization to the top of it, as a well-disciplined determined leader. That was none other than Rev. A.C. Samuel, the first National Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in India. His birth was very significant and purposeful upon the earth, in the first year of the 20th century, as a divinely appointed Stalwart. [...] Dr Mariamma Thomas, the author of this book is the only daughter of Rev. Samuel, the great servant of God. -Rev. Dr. T. P. Varughese. Senior Pastor, Kerala Christian Assembly Mariamma is the daughter of Kuttyamma and Pastor A. C. Samuel. Born and educated in Kerala, India, Mariamma has been living in the United States since her marriage to Dr. John Thomas in 1961. They have three daughters and five grandchildren who live in the States. Husband, Dr. John Thomas and daughter, Dr. Emily Thomas, passed away. She is a graduate of the Christian Medical College, Vellore and a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Mariamma worked as a consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Metro General Hospital and as an assistant professor in the Department of Reproductive Medicine at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio for 32 years before retiring in 2001. When she joined the medical college, it was unheard of for Pentecostal believers in South India to seek medical help. Mariamma was the first Pentecostal medical graduate in South India. Her father was responsible for revolutionizing the whole concept of medical treatment for the Pentecostal believers in South India.
