Holy Cross Church

The Holy Cross Shrine Church, popularly known as Mar Sleeva Syro-Malabar Church, is situated in the serene rural surroundings of Thrissur district in Kerala. Belonging to the Syro-Malabar Church under the Irinjalakuda Diocese, the church was established in 928 AD and is considered one of the oldest churches in India.

Over centuries, it has evolved into a renowned pilgrimage centre attracting devotees from different faiths. It also serves as a mother church to several nearby parishes, including the St. Thomas Cathedral.

Historical and Spiritual Significance

The church is among the very few in Kerala dedicated to the Holy Cross. Recognizing its unique importance in the history of the Syro-Malabar Archiepiscopal Church, it was granted the privilege on 21 September 1887 to enshrine a relic of the Holy Cross.

Additionally, by the order of Pope Leo XIII, the church received a relic associated with the Holy Blood of Jesus Christ on the shroud of St. Veronica from the Vatican.

Devotees are blessed with the rare opportunity to venerate the relic of the Holy Cross annually on:

• 14 September (Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross)
• 21 September
• Good Friday

Such an experience is granted by only a few churches worldwide.

The Persian Wooden Cross

One of the chief attractions of the shrine is its ancient wooden cross crafted in the Persian style. The cross remains unsmoothed by plane and is adorned with Panchlohas (five sacred metals), symbolizing deep spiritual and artistic traditions.

Unique Candle-Lighting Tradition

A remarkable and distinctive tradition of the church is its candle-lighting ritual. Since its foundation, devotees have offered candles as thanksgiving and prayer.

Every year on 13 September, the eve of the main feast, around 500 devotees light massive candles weighing between 1 kg and 300 kg. Over the course of the year, nearly one lakh worshippers light candles as offerings to the Holy Cross.

On 31 August 2007, marking this tradition, a giant candle weighing 1079 kg, standing 22 feet tall with an 18-inch diameter, was installed in the church. This extraordinary candle was manufactured by the Marsleeva Association for Rural Guidance (MARG), a registered society functioning under the church.

Artistic and Archaeological Treasures

The church preserves several ancient artifacts of religious and historical importance. Among them are:

• Palm-leaf manuscripts dating back 250–400 years
• A massive intricately carved beam known as Seelanthi
• A unique pulpit shaped like a dragon holding a sea flower
• A bronze bell over 300 years old, made in Italy
• Antique silver crosses, holy vestments, and a flower cross

These artifacts reflect the church’s rich heritage and artistic excellence.

Architectural Beauty

The new church building was consecrated on 6 February 1989. Its façade is a striking architectural masterpiece that harmoniously blends Christian, Hindu, and Islamic design elements. This fusion beautifully reflects Kerala’s tradition of cultural integration and religious harmony.

Commemoration

In recognition of its historical, spiritual, and cultural significance, a commemorative postage stamp was issued on the Holy Cross Shrine Church (Mar Sleeva Syro-Malabar Church), Mapranam, Thrissur, honouring its enduring legacy as a centre of faith and heritage.