Malayattoor Kurishumudy International Shrine — Attraction in Kerala

St. Thomas is believed to have landed at Kodungallur (Cranganore) in Kerala in AD 52. In AD 62, St. Thomas returns to Malankara coast via Malayatur where he establishes ‘the half church’ (a small Christian community dependent on the Church of Maliamkara).[5]

Oral tradition says that while travelling through Malayattor, faced with hostile natives, he fled to the hilltop where he said to have remained in prayer and that he left his footprint on one of the rocks. According to beliefs, during prayer, he touched a rock, upon which blood poured from it.

The main festival is on the first Sunday after Easter. It is traditionally believed that St. Thomas used to make the Sign of the Cross on the rock, kiss it and pray at Kurisumudi. The story has it that a miraculous golden cross appeared at that particular spot. Pilgrims going up the hill call out incessantly "Ponnum Kurishu Muthappo, Ponmala Kayattom", meaning "''O Patriarch of the Golden Cross! Climb we shall, this golden hill!''"

This Shrine was promoted to Archdiocesan status by Major Archbishop Mar Varkey Cardinal Vithayathil on 4 September 1998. There is also an ancient Church in the name of St Thomas (Estd. 900 AD) at Malayattoor on the banks of Periyar River which serves as the parish Church at present. The annual festival of this church is known as 'Malayatoor Perunal' and it is celebrated in the months of March–April.

Kurisumudi Edit Kurishumudi (Hill of the holy cross) is a mountain at Malayattoor, that has its fame as a place visited by St. Thomas, one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ. Jesus gave a mandate to his Apostles to go out to the whole world and to proclaim the Good News. Thomas set out to India and landed at Kodungalloor in AD 52. A hostile reception was given and his life was in danger. He was forced to flee to the top of the mountain and had spent days in the abode of God. In deep anguish and agony, St. Thomas prayed to the Lord and he made a sign of the cross on the rock. The Mother of Our Lord, Blessed Mary, appeared to console and strengthens him. He descended from the top hill and continued his journey to Mylapoore in Tamil Nadu. Later on the hunters went to the mountain for hunting. While they stayed in the night they saw a glittering sign of cross on the rock. Out of curiosity they struck there with their rude weapons. To their surprise blood gushed out. They ran to the valley and told the locals. They went to the mountain and while they prayed there they got many miracles. This is the humble beginning of Pilgrimage to Kurishumudi

Golden Cross Edit Kurishumudi is where one can find the Golden Cross believed to have formed when St. Thomas knelt on a rock and signed a cross with his finger. He remained there praying for a long time, and ultimately a golden cross appeared on the spot. The church was later built on that cross, and another golden cross was erected right on top of that stone which remains in the center of the church.

Footprints of St Thomas Edit One of the most curious sights at the mountain was the permanent footprint and the marks of knees of St. Thomas imprinted on the rock. At present, the natural footprint is not there but instead there is a man-made footprint (A replica) made by the Church.

The ancient chapel struck by the elephants Edit An ancient chapel at Kurishumudi, was attacked by tuskers in the past when it used to be surrounded by thick jungle. Deep tusk marks can still be found on the back wall of the chapel.

The miraculous water spring Edit A well, situated near the ancient chapel at the top of the mount is believed to be the spot from where St. Thomas quenched his thirst during his time of prayer. Feeling thirsty, he struck the rock from which fresh water started flowing. Pilgrims consider the water in the well to possess divine power to heal ailments.

With its recent recognition by Vatican as an international pilgrim centre, this famous shrine at Malayattoor dedicated to St. Thomas would be extending its healing touch and spiritual bliss to more visitors and for those who come to enjoy...

Situated about 47 km from Kochi, Malayattoor is famous for the Catholic Church, located on top of the Malayattoor hill, at a height of 609 m. Dedicated to St. Thomas the apostle of Jesus Christ, thousands of pilgrims gather here for the annual festival of 'Malayatoor Perunnal', held during the months of March /April.

Sailing in an Arab merchant vessel, St. Thomas is believed to have landed at Kodungalloor port in Kerala, in AD 52. It is believed that St. Thomas took the initiative for establishing a Christian community at Malayattoor. In his journey through the length and breadth of the land, St. Thomas founded churches in Kodungalloor, Quilon, Niranam, Nilakkal, Kokkamangalam, Kottakavu and Paalayoor.

Blessed by natural bounties Malayattoor offers ideal environs for those seeking spiritual happiness. Nowadays, the hill shrine at Malayattoor has emerged as the largest pilgrim centre in the name of St. Thomas in India. Here, the big and auspicious occasion is the feast of St. Thomas, which is observed on the first Sunday after Easter, when thousands throng the shrine for his blessings.

Those interested in the architecture of the church would find it highly interesting. It has a combination of Greco-Roman architecture with the altar designed in traditional Greek style, and the front portion of the church following the traditional Roman Catholic Church architecture. Behind the central altar, one can find the carvings, designs and paintings, which include the five joyful mysteries of Jesus Christ. The church has separate facilities for confession and adoration. The ancient baptismal pond and the traditional pulpit are of historical relevance.

From the hill side, one can watch the soothing sight of the smooth flowing Periyar river, which itself would make the minds of pilgrims calm and serene. The church provides facilities for bathing in the river.

Devotees arriving at the shrine make several types of offerings. Some climb the hill carrying cross in their shoulders; women folk would carry long brooms with them with prayers for prosperity. Some pilgrims carry stones on their heads, an offering that is meant to remove burdens from their lives. There are various religious rituals in the parish church and at the top of the mount. Some of the services include high mass, ordinary mass, Novena, Adima, Vedi Litany etc.

Difficult to reach the church for the senior citizens and who go for the first time. Need good stamina to reach the church. Good atmosphere and spiritual positive energy...

Malayatoor Kurisumudi, located in the picturesque town of Malayatoor near Kochi, Kerala, holds significant religious importance for pilgrims, especially those of the Christian faith. Here's a review based on its pilgrimage aspects:

Spiritual Significance: Malayatoor Kurisumudi is believed to be the place where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is said to have prayed and left his footprints on a rock. This historical and religious significance draws pilgrims from far and wide, seeking spiritual solace and blessings. The site is revered as a sacred spot for prayer, reflection, and seeking divine intervention.

Scenic Surroundings: Nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, the journey to Malayatoor Kurisumudi is as spiritually enriching as the destination itself. Pilgrims trek through winding pathways, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, which adds to the sense of reverence and tranquility. The panoramic views from the summit of Kurisumudi provide a breathtaking backdrop for prayer and contemplation.

Pilgrimage Experience: The pilgrimage to Malayatoor Kurisumudi is not just a physical journey but also a deeply spiritual one. Pilgrims undertake the challenging ascent to the hill shrine, often barefoot as a sign of humility and devotion. Along the way, they engage in prayers, hymns, and rituals, immersing themselves in the sacred atmosphere. The sense of community and camaraderie among fellow pilgrims adds to the profound experience of faith and devotion.

Devotional Practices: At the summit of Malayatoor Kurisumudi, pilgrims find the ancient church dedicated to St. Thomas, where they offer prayers, light candles, and seek blessings. The presence of priests and religious leaders enhances the spiritual experience, providing guidance and support to pilgrims. Many devotees participate in special religious services and rituals, including the veneration of the footprints of St. Thomas, believed to possess miraculous powers.

Overall Experience: Malayatoor Kurisumudi offers pilgrims a transformative journey of faith, prayer, and spiritual renewal. The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and devotional practices creates a unique and unforgettable pilgrimage experience. Whether seeking blessings, seeking solace, or simply connecting with their faith, pilgrims find Malayatoor Kurisumudi to be a place of profound significance and...