Founders
In 1983, "Exodus" began as a rock band comprised of Sam John (Reji), Mathew Philip, Shibu Mathew, Abe Thomas, Benoy Jacob, and VJ Traven. Although they all hailed from Christian families, they had not yet cultivated a personal relationship with Jesus. Over the ensuing years, their individual paths led them to different locations.
However, 1984 marked a significant spiritual turning point for Reji and Mathew, as they both experienced personal encounters with Jesus and embraced belief in Him. Later, in 1992, Abe also had a transformative personal experience with Jesus, which inspired him to commit his life to full-time ministry and pursue theological education at Bible College.
Our Journey
In 1997, Reji and Abe reunited with a shared passion, started to reach out to the youth of Kochi with the love of Jesus. They began meeting for prayer in a small hotel room, eventually relocating their gatherings to the YMCA. This marked the re-emergence of Exodus, now as a Christian ministry centered around the vision of "true devotion, pure music." Their Wednesday meetings at the YMCA, characterized by music and a message of faith, began to draw a growing number of young attendees.
During this time, Mathew Philip, who was working in Saudi Arabia, had a personal experience with Jesus there and relocated to Kochi. During this time, VJ Traven, a recognized singer in India, based in Kolkatta, moved to Kochi and experienced a personal healing encounter with Jesus.
In 2002, Exodus became a church, founded on the Great Commission of the Lord, with a vision to "go and preach the gospel to all nations" and to make disciples who would serve as the salt and light of the earth.
Today, Exodus has expanded into a multifaceted ministry with a significant impact. Its work now includes church planting initiatives, counselling services, a variety of training programs designed to equip the body of Christ, and numerous community development projects operating across India and extending its reach to other nations.
Late Pastor Sam John
Late Pastor Sam John, affectionately known as Reji, was a pivotal figure in the establishment of Exodus Ministry in 1997, co-founding it with Pastor Abe Thomas Oommen. This ministry later blossomed into Exodus Church in 2002, where both men served as Senior Pastors.
Pastor Reji was defined by his deep passion for Jesus and his profound compassion for others. He consistently greeted people with a warm smile and an embracing hug, and through his personal, one-on-one conversations, he guided many individuals to Christ.
A true shepherd at heart, Pastor Reji lived out his pastoral calling with genuine care. He possessed an evangelistic spirit and served as a spiritual father to countless individuals.
Through the Lord's grace, Pastor Reji touched the lives of thousands of individuals and families, many of whom now actively serve the Lord in various capacities. His impact on those he encountered was profound and lasting.
The essence of his sermons can be summarized in his powerful statements: "There is only one Life, Live for Jesus," "The Greatest Miracle is Salvation through Lord Jesus," and "You are Precious for Jesus."
Pastor Reji's life exemplified that of a true disciple. He fought the good fight, finished his race, and remained steadfast in his faith until his passing on April 26th, 2024.
The Exodus family remains eternally grateful for the life of Pastor Reji and is deeply committed to upholding the legacy he has left behind. His wife, Sis. Asha, continues to serve alongside the church leadership, powerfully impacting the women's ministries.
Their eldest daughter, Linta, married to Boaz and residing in the USA, serves the Lord as a worship minister while also pursuing her profession.
Their youngest daughter, Rachel, driven by a humanitarian spirit and currently completing her Master's degree, leads the social media department and actively participates in the Junior Church ministry.