Amidst the hustle and bustle of the high range town of Kothamangalam, in Ernakulam district, stands the St. Thomas Church, a serene oasis of spirituality, history and cultural heritage. The historic shrine, also known as Marthoma Cheriapally, is a beacon of hope for the region’s Christian community.

History
The Mar Thoma church is one of the oldest in India, with a history tracing back to the early centuries of Christianity. Believed to have been established in 1455 by St. Thomas, the Apostle, who is credited with bringing Christianity to India in 52 AD, the church has great historical and cultural significance. 

Maphrian of the East of the Syriac Orthodox Church, Saint Baselios Yeldho, who travelled to India in 1685, is buried in this prominent church. The Saint died on September 29, 1685.Serving as a beacon of communal unity, this church welcomes pilgrims from diverse castes and creeds on a daily basis, each seeking the Saint’s intercession. 

Architecture
The Church is a unique blend of traditional Kerala style architecture with elements of Gothic design. The wooden carvings, intricately designed altars, and stained glass windows are a visual feast, reflecting the artistic heritage of the region. The church’s towering spires and serene ambiance create a perfect setting for reflection and prayer.

Spiritual Significance
Marthoma Church is not only a historical monument but also a vibrant center of spiritual activity. It plays a pivotal role in the religious life of the local community, hosting regular masses, prayer meetings, and religious festivals. The church’s serene environment and spiritual aura provide solace and peace to visitors, making it a haven for those seeking a deeper connection with their faith.

Cheriapally Festival
The Church has always been a cornerstone of community life in Kothamangalam. It hosts various cultural and social events, bringing together people from different walks of life.

The “Kanni 20 Festival”, also known as the Cheriapally Perunnal, held every year on October 2-3, is a joyous occasion. The event, held to honour Saint Baselios Yeldho, attracts thousands of people from far and wide.  The church is fully decked up with colourful lights during the festival and processions are taken out to mark the occasion. 

The church premises come alive with music, dance and fireworks during the Perunnal with the pious seek the blessings of Saint Baselios Yeldho.

The church is also a symbol of communal harmony. It was a Nair (Hindu) youth who showed the way to the Saint to the Church when he first entered Kerala. In memory of this, the youth’s successors are given the privilege of holding the lamp of the church during the procession (Rassa) on the day of the festival.

The festival that culminates in the Saint’s Dhukrono is a testimony to the enduring legacy of St. Basalios Yeldho and the cultural legacy of Kothamanagalam.

Exploring the town and neighbourhood
Visitors can explore the area by travelling in local buses which starts from Kothamangalam and passes through forest paths covering Kuttampuzha, Mamalakandam, Pazhambillichal, Kurangathi and Mankulam. The jungle safari, often sights wild animals, ends at Munnar, the prime tourist destination in South India.

Kothamangalam is also an entry point to Thattekkad bird sanctuary also known as Dr. Salim Ali Park. The bird sanctuary, one of the most popular in Kerala with rare birds, and spread over an area of 25 square kilometres, is a nature lover’s paradise.

Peaceful retreat
A visit to Marthoma Church is a time travel, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. The church is well-connected to Madurai, Kochi and Munnar, and its serene surroundings make it a perfect destination for the faithful, the history buff and the mundane traveller. 

So get ready for a journey to Marthoma Church in Kothamangalam and enjoy yourself in the rich tapestry of history, faith, and community while exploring the rich flora and fauna of its surroundings.