Overview.

The Edappally Church: A Journey Through Centuries of Faith, Myth, and History

Tucked within the annals of time, the Edappally Church stands as a testament to a history spanning over fourteen centuries. A history intertwined with myth, religion, magic, folklore, and the passage of time, it has emerged as a pilgrimage site drawing people from far and wide. Central to its allure is a perennial well that has, over the ages, beckoned travelers and seekers alike, transforming the humble hamlet of Edappally into a sanctified haven of devotion.

The origins of this historic church are rooted in the narrative of Thomas the Apostle, known as Mar Thoma Sleeha in Malayalam/Syriac. According to historical accounts, Thomas built seven churches during his time, and among them, the Edappally Church came to life in the sixth century. This was shortly after the construction of the famed seven churches, marking the beginning of a spiritual journey that would unfold over the centuries.

A prominent feature of the church is a statue that captures the essence of St. George, also known as Mar Geevarghese Sahada. This iconic representation depicts St. George on horseback, courageously impaling a serpent beneath his horse's hooves. The statue is not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol that intertwines religion, myth, and history, encapsulating the rich tapestry of beliefs that have shaped the Edappally Church's narrative.

In the annals of time, Edappally was but a humble hamlet, a part of the princely kingdom of Elangalloor. Its Syrian Christian congregation, a small community, was the legacy of those converted to Christianity by none other than St. Thomas the Apostle himself, who arrived in India in the year 52 AD. The original Edappally church, erected in the year 593, remains preserved as a poignant reminder of the past. This one-room structure, built by families from Paravur, was a place of worship for those who had to undertake journeys to the Kottakkavu Mar Thoma Syro-Malabar Church in North Paravur.

As the congregation grew, so did the need for a larger space of worship. Thus, in the year 1080, a second church emerged on the horizon. This church underwent transformations over the years, including renovations to its main Madaba (altar) and façade during the 1970s. The addition of a picture of the Virgin Mary became a pivotal addition, underscoring the evolving layers of devotion that characterized the church's story. The imported-tile floor, a relic from the past, persists as a tangible link to history.

The year 1994 marked a significant milestone for the Edappally Church, as it celebrated its 1400th anniversary since its founding. To honor this occasion, a bell tower was erected on the church grounds, housing a bell that resonated with the call to prayer. Notably, Mother Teresa graced the event with her presence, a beacon of humility and compassion. The bell that initially adorned the tower was later moved to the archangel tower of the new church, preserving its reverberating resonance within a new context.

It was in the dawn of the new millennium, on January 1, 2001, that the foundation stone for the third and most remarkable iteration of the church was laid. Blessed by Pope John Paul II himself, this octagonal masterpiece soared to a height of 141 feet, dominating the landscape with its grandeur. Encompassing an expansive area of 88,000 square feet, it stands as one of India's largest churches, a breathtaking union of European and Keralite architectural influences.

Within the sacred walls of this grand church, a fusion of cultural influences and spiritual stories unfolds. The Madbaha, or altar, adorned with gold foil imported from Italy, is a masterpiece crafted from teak wood. A symphony of European and Keralite styles, the church's aesthetics blend seamlessly, creating an environment of awe and reverence. The rich narrative of the Old and New Testaments comes to life through intricate sculptures that adorn the structure. From the story of original sin and Noah's Ark to the poignant narrative of Cain and Abel, these sculptures serve as visual chronicles of faith.

Within the main chapel, spanning an area of 19,500 square feet, an ethereal ambiance is created. With a seating capacity of 5,000, this sanctuary provides a space for communal worship, where devotees gather to offer their prayers and experience a sense of spiritual unity. The overarching capacity of the entire church, accommodating up to 10,000 individuals, reinforces its significance as a place of congregation, reflection, and shared devotion.

While the grandeur of the third church shines brightly, the two older iterations have not been forgotten. Preserved for their historical importance, these structures stand as echoes of bygone eras, where the faithful of generations past sought solace and connection with the divine.

In the captivating saga of the Edappally Church, the passage of centuries becomes an intricate tapestry of faith, history, and human endeavor. It is a place where myth and devotion intertwine, where the footprints of saints and pilgrims have left an indelible mark. As the sun continues to rise and set over its hallowed grounds, the Edappally Church stands as a timeless testament to the enduring power of spirituality, and a beacon of light guiding all who seek the embrace of faith.

9.30AM - 1:00PM, 2.30PM - 5.30PM