St. Mary's Forane Church
Champakulam Kalloorkadu Marth Maryam (St. Mary’s) Basilica, popularly known as St. Mary’s Forane Church is an ancient Syro-Malabar church in the Archeparchy of Changanacherry. Constructed in 427 AD, the church is one of the oldest Syrian Catholic churches in all of India.
The brilliant architecture, elaborate rock inscriptions, and ancient artifacts boast about the Portuguese influence in the traditional designs and are worth a visit. Legend has it that this church was the first to have been founded by St. Thomas, the apostle himself.
Situated in Champakullam, on the banks of river Pamba, the rich history, legacy, and ingenious architecture attracts a large number of tourists to the spot. The pearly white building is a wonderful amalgamation of Syrian and Portuguese designs. It is believed that this church was the reason for reconciliation between Catholics and Jacobian Syrians centuries ago; hence it is considered a rich heritage of Christianity in India.
History of St. Mary's Forane Church
According to legend, the 9th-century St. Mary's Church was built on land donated by the Brahmin family of Ettanasseri. It is a token of thanksgiving for a male heir born to the family by praying to the Virgin Mary. The idol at the shrine, the statue of St. Sebastian, is said to have been brought by the Portuguese sailor Leonard D'Cruz in 1687. The crucifix in this church is unique, as it shows St. Sebastian without any wounds.
In 2016, the church was announced as a basilica and became the first in the archdiocese of Changanassery. So, this is the 23rd basilica in India and the 9th basilica in Kerala. Also, it is the fourth Syro-Malabar Basilica in India.
Annual Feasts at St. Mary's Forane Church
Many holy celebrations like Easter, Good Friday, Christmas, etc. are celebrated with great fun and joy. Apart from all these, there are two main feasts celebrated every year here.
The first one is the Feast of Mother Mary/ Marian Apparition which lasts for 11 days of pious celebrations and finishes on the Sunday following 15 October. The second one is the commemoration of the death of St. Joseph which is conducted every year on 19th March.
