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St. Marys Syro Malabar Catholic Church is one of the most recognized Syrian Catholic churches in Kerala, more specifically in the district of Alleppey. On visiting this historical church you can have a glance at a wide range of ancient relics and rock engravings which together offer a brief but detailed idea about the prestigious history of this church. St. Marys Forane church is under the archeparchy of the Changanacherry town in Kottayam, Kerala.
Historical Background of St. Marys Forane Church:
Various historical documents suggest the establishment of St. Marys Forane Church in 427 AD. And, after its birth, it has been reconstructed a number of times. We have other stories depicting that this ancient church was founded back in the 9th century. The land on which it was built was offered by a devoted Brahmin family from Ettanasseri. It was a thanksgiving by them for the birth of a male heir in their family with the blessings offered by Virgin Mary.
In 1687, a Portuguese sailor Leonard DCruz has brought the St. Sebastian’ statue and he finally placed it inside the church. For all the global tourists, the distinctive crucifix of St. Sebastian is a major attraction as the statue lacks of any injuries!
Recently in 2016, St. Marys Forane Church is turned into a Basilica which itself created a history in Changanassery’ archdiocese. But it is ranked ninth of the basilica of Kerala and twenty third in our country. As a Syro-Malabar basilica, it is ranked fourth in India. So, overall, St. Marys Forane Church – Alleppey is a key player in the South Indian Christians’ history.
Important aspects about St. Marys Forane Church:
The building has a pleasant white colour.
The architecture of this church has a royal appearance which bears the combinations of Syrian Christian and Portuguese styles of constructing buildings.
It is standing with pride as a symbol of peace.
History says that it was the major reason why the settlement of Jacobian Syrians and Catholics happened 3 centuries back.
It popularly carries the Christian heritage in this country.
When you make a visit here, you can positively expect a range of glorious festivals to witness which are solely associated with the church and are exclusively performed in the honour of St. Sebastian. If you make a perfect timing to visit this church you could see lots of sparkling fireworks which illuminate the nights.
How to reach St. Marys Forane Church
As the St. Marys Forane Church –Alleppey is situated in Champakulam so, after entering Alleppey, Kerala, you need to hire a private cab or auto-rikshaw to reach the spot. Inter-state buses are also available at cheaper rates. Another interesting way to reach this place is by boats through the backwaters of Alleppey.
Church timings:
St. Marys Forane Church remains open for its visitors and locals in two intervals every day - from 9.30 am to 1.00 pm and again from 3.30 pm to 6.00 pm.
Festivals celebrated in St. Marys Forane Church:
The major festival celebrated here is the annual feast organized every year in the honour of St. Sebastian. It is celebrated with lots of eye-catching fireworks in the night. Devotees of Christian religion offer silver and gold arrows as a token of respect.
Annual Feast celebrated at St. Marys Forane Church Alleppey:
Annual feasts organize in every holy occasion of Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, etc. The participants celebrate these occasions with joy and lots of fun. And, apart from these festivals, St. Marys Forane Church is recognized for hosting two major feasts each year which are Marian Apparition feast (lasts for 11 consecutive days and ends on Sunday!) and St. Joseph feast (on his death day!) which happens on 19th March of every year.
