Heritage & History
From the shores of Kerala to Greater Manchester, our faith remains anchored in the apostolic tradition of St. Thomas.
Who We Are
The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church is an Eastern Catholic Major Archiepiscopal Church in full communion with the Pope. We trace our origin back to the missionary work of St. Thomas the Apostle, who arrived on the shores of India in AD 52. Rooted in Kerala, where the Christian presence accounts for roughly 18% of the population and has heavily driven development in health and education, our community has grown into a global diaspora. Today, our faithful dynamically contribute to communities across the Middle East, the US, Europe, and Oceania, while beautifully preserving our ancient East Syriac liturgical, theological, and spiritual heritage.
Apostolic Origin & Muziris Landing
According to ancient tradition, St. Thomas the Apostle landed in Muziris (modern-day Kodungallur, Kerala, India) in AD 52. He preached the Gospel and established seven Christian communities along the Malabar Coast. The early Christians were affectionately known as "Mar Thoma Nazranis" (St. Thomas Christians).
Ecclesial Growth & Communion
Over the centuries, the St. Thomas Christians established communion with the Church of the East, adopting the East Syriac Liturgical Rite. This liturgy is rich in symbols, deep prayers, and solemn chants, honoring the ancient Semitic-Christian traditions. In 1992, Pope John Paul II elevated the church to a Major Archiepiscopal Church, recognizing its right to self-governance.
Waves of Migration to Great Britain
During the 1960s and 70s, small numbers of Kerala professionals migrated to the UK, finding crucial roles within the NHS and other fields. A subsequent, distinct phase of migration surged from 2000 onwards, bringing families directly from Kerala as well as the Middle East. Supported by dedicated Syro-Malabar priests studying or working in local Latin parishes, vibrant lay communities began taking root across the country.
Establishment of the Eparchy
Responding to the spiritual needs of Eastern Rite Catholics, and following the Holy See's instruction 'Erga Migrantes Caritas Christi', Pope Francis established the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain on 28 July 2016. With its See in Preston at St Alphonsa Cathedral, and backed strongly by the Bishops' Conference of England, Wales, and Scotland, the Eparchy now coordinates 5 parishes and over 70 missions to shepherd nearly 80,000 faithful.
Missions in Salford & Bolton
As a localized expression of this global journey, our community thrives in the Greater Manchester area. The St Euphrasia Mission (worshiping at St Mary's RC Church, Eccles) and St Anne's Mission (Bolton) were formed to preserve our liturgical tradition and nurture our families. Currently led by Rev Fr. Stanto Vazheeparampil, we remain deeply thankful to the local ordinaries who welcomed us as we cultivate our spiritual, catechismal, and cultural life.