Close friend of churchgoers; St. Mary's Church is family for Nasser Hameed

THODUPUZHA: Nasser will reach St. Mary's Jacobite Syrian Church in Thodupuzha at 5 am. He will light the lamp and ring the church bell. That's how a day starts for 60-year-old Nasser Hameed. Nassar will go home after closing the gate only after doing all the work including cleaning the church and its premises, ringing the church bell at 6.15 pm and locking the gate.

Whether it's Christmas or Easter, the churchgoers need Karikode Kizhakkamparambil Nasser Hameed's presence in the church. Nasser has been the sole employee of the church for more than 30 years.

Yesterday Nasser ikka was with the children to prepare the Christmas Crib and buy crackers. At the same time, Nasser is a staunch believer of Islam who prays five times a day and observes all fasts.

Nasser, who was selling vegetables in Thodupuzha market, used to clean the small kappela inside the market without being asked by anyone. This relationship started there. Later, when the church near the private bus stand was renovated, Nasser joined the team. Seeing his sincerity in his work, the vicar and church committee members entrusted him with small tasks in the church. The devoted young man soon became a salaried employee of the church. No matter if there is a death or a wedding in the parish, Nasser will be there all the time. On Sundays, Nasser cooks food for about 200 people, including the bible class students, who come to the church after mass. Nasser is married to Shahina. They have three children, Badusha, Basim and Bima.

'Reliability is what makes Nasser endearing. He is beloved by all the vicars who have worked here.'

-KV Joy Kotamkottil, Church Trustee

This church is like my home. Everyone who comes here is my family. I have never had a bad experience from my community or parishioners.'

-Nasser Hameed