Malayatoor Church: A Sacred Journey to St. Thomas' Footsteps in God's Own Country

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Kerala, India, lies the Malayatoor Kurisumudy, an international shrine that holds profound significance for Christians worldwide. This isn't just any church; it's a place steeped in history, faith, and the enduring legacy of one of Christ's original apostles, St. Thomas.

What is an International Shrine? - Malayatoor Church

Before we delve deeper into Malayatoor's story, it's worth understanding what an "international shrine" signifies. In the Catholic Church, an international shrine is a sacred place designated by the Holy See (the Pope and the Roman Curia) due to its exceptional spiritual importance, historical significance, and its role as a destination for pilgrims from across the globe. These shrines often house relics, commemorate significant events, or are associated with apparitions, drawing people seeking spiritual solace, healing, and a deeper connection to their faith.

St. Thomas Church Malayatoor

St. Thomas and His Arrival in India

The narrative of St. Thomas's arrival in India is a cornerstone of the Malayatoor church's significance. It is widely believed that St. Thomas, after the Ascension of Christ, embarked on a missionary journey that brought him to the shores of the Arabian Sea. His landing point is traditionally identified as the ancient port of Muziris, a bustling maritime hub in present-day Kerala.

From Muziris, legend has it that St. Thomas ventured inland, possibly walking upstream along the Periyar River. This arduous journey would have led him through diverse landscapes, eventually bringing him to the very spot where Malayatoor now stands. This direct link to St. Thomas's missionary endeavours in India makes Malayatoor a truly unique and hallowed ground.

Malayatoor on the banks of the river Periyar

It's important to note that historians are divided on the certainty of St. Thomas's arrival in India due to a lack of strong corroborating historical evidence. While numerous stories recount his journey, some historians suggest that the traditional accounts might be confused with the arrival of Thomas of Cana, a merchant leader who arrived at Port Muziris with a group of 72 families around the same period. This highlights a fascinating aspect where deeply held belief and tradition often transcend the limitations of verifiable historical facts.

Adding to the complexity, the destruction by fire of much of the library and liturgy of the existing Orthodox Church of Kerala by Portuguese forces in the 16th century might have tragically erased whatever detailed history and tradition existed prior to their arrival. The already established Orthodox Church of Kerala was not ready to accept the dominion of the Catholic Church, leading to a period of intense conflict and the deliberate destruction of many invaluable historical records, which might have otherwise shed more light on early Christian presence in the region.

The Malayatoor Kurisumudy: A Pilgrim's Ascent and a Glimpse of History

The Malayatoor St. Thomas Church is not merely a place of worship; it's a vibrant pilgrim center, especially during Holy Week. The most striking tradition associated with the shrine is the annual pilgrimage during Good Friday. On this solemn day, thousands of devotees from across the region gather to hike up the nearby hillock, the "Kurisumudy" (literally "hill of the cross").

This tradition is rooted in a powerful belief: that St. Thomas, facing local resistance during his evangelistic efforts, sought refuge and solace by fleeing up this very hill. The arduous climb undertaken by pilgrims today is a symbolic reenactment of St. Thomas's struggles and perseverance. As they ascend, many carry wooden crosses, transforming the path into a poignant procession of faith and devotion. The atmosphere is charged with prayer, reflection, and a deep sense of connection to the apostle's journey.

The climb to the top of Kurisumudy is steep and can be challenging in certain spots, traversing rocky terrain. However, it's a frequently used path, and some good support systems are in place, making it manageable even for the elderly. Atop the hill, a smaller, older church stands, offering a serene space for prayer and reflection after the challenging ascent. The path up the hill also takes you into a region close to the foothills of the Western Ghats, offering glimpses of the surrounding forests.

The old and new church interiors at Malayatoor

At the foot of the Kurisumudy, the main church complex beckons. While a modern, architecturally striking new church dominates the landscape, don't miss the charming old church adjacent to it. This smaller, heritage structure still exudes a timeless appeal, offering a glimpse into the past and the enduring devotion of generations.

Adding to the serene ambiance is the proximity of the Periyar River. This long and majestic river, originating in the Western Ghats and finally merging into the Arabian Sea, flows gently by the church, its waters often shallow and inviting. The river adds a picturesque backdrop to the spiritual experience of Malayatoor.

A Perfect Stop on Your Kerala Journey

For travellers exploring the beauty of Kerala, the Malayatoor pilgrim center offers a meaningful detour. Conveniently located as a slight deviation on the route between Cochin International Airport and the scenic hill station of Munnar, it provides an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in history and spirituality. In fact, some Kerala tour programs, like a five-day Kerala holiday package, are designed to include a visit to this significant site for those with an interest in its profound story. The Abhayaranyam elephant sanctuary is very close by on the opposite banks of the River Periyar.

starting point to the Malayatoor hillock - Malayatoor Kurishumudy

The Malayatoor Kurisumudy stands as a testament to centuries of unwavering faith and the enduring legacy of St. Thomas. It's a place where history intertwines with spirituality, inviting pilgrims to not only witness a sacred site but to actively participate in a tradition that brings them closer to the very foundations of Christianity in India. If you ever find yourself in Kerala, a visit to Malayatoor is more than just a trip; it's a profound journey into the heart of faith and an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of an apostle.