Rev. John J. Williams, affectionately known as William Achen, a senior priest of the Church of South India, was honored with the title “The Very Reverend” during a special Holy Communion service held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at CSI Christ Church in Danbury, CT. This distinguished title was conferred by the Moderator of the Church of South India, The Most Rev. Dr. Reuben Mark. In recognition of his more than fifty years of dedicated service in Christian ministry, William Achen was also awarded an honorary doctorate.


To mark this blessed occasion, the Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Connecticut, presented The Very Rev. Dr. John J. Williams with a commemorative clock – a symbol of the precious gift of time that Achen has so graciously and selflessly devoted to the Lord’s work. We thank and praise God for Achen’s lifelong ministry that has left an enduring impact on countless lives, transcending denominational boundaries, and reflecting a deep, unwavering commitment to the Lord’s call.