CATEGORY : PILGRIM TOURISM, CHURCHES
St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church, situated at the
heart of a small village called Kallooppara (on the banks of the river
Manimalayar), Pathanamthitta District , is a prized possession of Malankara
Sabha. The church has a legacy of around seven centuries, keeping its tradition
and culture intact without compromising on its religious values. The church is
an elegant representation of the beautiful shingled roof tops in the early
Travancore style. The church is a perfect example of the ancient temple
architecture and is a mystery the way it has overcome all the challenges of
time. The sanctorium that is abstract in all aspects is a mystifying beauty of
the ancient architecture, which has a keen and splendid blend of beauty and
science in it.
The church which is the worshiping place of
thousands has been a topic of research for many. Currently there are around 700
families worshiping in this church and the members of the church are present
all around the globe.
The church has been renovated with a newly built
balcony to accommodate more people during holy mass. Also a manimalika (place
to suspend the church bell) has been built near the church.
The church has been declared as
the "Pilgrim center of St. Mary" on January 9th 2009 by His
Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didimos Ist.
http://www.kalloopparapally.com/