A Peek Into The History of St. Antony’s Roman Catholic Latin Shrine

St. Antony’s Roman Catholic Latin Shrine in Kaloor, Kochi, is famous for the beautiful experiences that the church gives to its believers. St. Antony and his wonders are numerous, and people who place their trust in the saint will never be disappointed.  Hence, the church is also called Kaloor Church.

St. Antony, born as Fernando Martins de Bulhões or Saint Anthony of Lisbon, was a Portuguese Catholic priest and friar of the Franciscan Order. He lived during the Middle Ages (1195-1231), and during his short lifespan, he became very famous for his miraculous deeds. However, he was born in Portuguese and lived in Padua, Italy and inspired people to turn to God. He gave powerful sermons in Padua, and people got motivated and inspired.

The St. Antony’s Roman Catholic Latin Shrine at Kaloor(one of the famous churches in Kerala ) is second in popularity, after Padua, among pilgrims. There may not be a huge one, nor as ornate as other world-famous churches, but it is equally popular. It is one of the most important pilgrim centres that give relief, peace and happiness to people.

People pray to the saint when they lose something of value when they want something in life. He acts as a guide when you turn spiritual, and you no longer need anything “materialistic” from life. When you visit the church, you will meet dozens of people who would be ready to recount thankful accounts of how the saint protected them from misfortune and diseases.

About the Kaloor Church

Image via  St.Antony’s Shrine Kaloor Website

The blessing of the Holy Shrine of St. Antony happened in 1915, with the first mass being held in 1962 by Rev. Fr. Francis Rebeiro. However, several years later the Holy Relic of St. Antony was brought in. Novena prayers also started with the then Archbishop of Verapoly, His Grace Dr Joseph Kelanthara.

The Kaloor Church is easily accessible from railway stations and bus stations. The moment you enter the church premises, you feel its magic.

Tuesdays are special days at Kaloor Church with Holy Mass and Novena in the mornings and evenings. Hundreds of people who pray together in divine bliss fill the Church. The shrine is the substation of St. Francis Xavier’s Parish Church at Kathrikkadavu, Kaloor. In the shrine’s compound, you can visit the Adoration chapel and Antonian Bible College as well.

Image via  St.Antony’s Shrine Kaloor Website

On the 13th June of the month every year, the feast day is held. Preparations for the feast start on June 4th, making it a 9-day festival.

To visit more places in Kochi, please click Must see places in Kochi.

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