Church History

Holy Cross Church, Muttada: A Legacy of Faith (1942-2023)

Introduction:

Nestled in Kesavadasapuram, Vattiyoorkavu Ward, Thiruvananthapuram, the Holy Family Church stands as a testament to the enduring faith of its community. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a vibrant parish, deeply rooted in the lives of its members. This is the story of that journey.

Early Years (1942 - 1969):

In 1937, the Diocese of Thiruvananthapuram was formed, separating from the Kollam Diocese. Muttada began as a mission center under the Palayam Subdivision. Believers gathered in a simple thatched shed in Keezhamkulam for prayer. Priests from Palayam would visit monthly to celebrate Mass. Kuravankonam, Peroorkada, Kudappanakunnu, and Manvila were worship centers associated with the Keezhamkulam Mission Center.

The Catholic population was initially small, with Alexander Contractor playing a significant role. Miss Kingless, then Inspector of Girls Schools in Travancore, spearheaded the effort to build a new church. Donations from Bishop Vincent D'Esterre, Judge Appu Nadar, and Miss Kingless's friends enabled construction to begin. Overcoming initial obstacles, the community rallied together, and the St. Philomena Church was consecrated on November 22, 1942, with Rev. Fr. Pious O.C.D. as the first Vicar.

The Golden Age and Transformation:

The arrival of Fr. Ireneus in 1948 marked a golden era for the Muttada Subdivision. Fr. Ireneus, hailing from Belgium, dedicated himself to serving the community, learning Malayalam to connect with its members. He also envisioned the spacious playground behind the church. In 1966, he was appointed as the Superior of the Carmelites and later went to Rome.

Following Fr. Ireneus, Rev. Fr. Mark Neto and Rev. Fr. Celestine served as Vicars. During Fr. Celestine's tenure, the church's name was changed to Holy Family Church, as St. Philomena was not included in the list of saints.

The Reemptorist Influence (1969 - 2023):

In 1969, the Reemptorist priests were entrusted with the subdivision, with Rev. Fr. Varghese Kochery C.Ss.R. appointed as the first Vicar. The church became an Ashram, further enriching the community's spiritual life. Several Reemptorist priests served as vicars over the years, each contributing to the growth and development of the parish (see list of Parish Priests). Kudappanakunnu and Mannanthala remained sub-stations under Muttada, while Koonthallur became an independent subdivision in 2019.

A New Church for a Growing Community:

As the parish grew, the old church became too small. During his time as Vicar (1983-1987), Fr. George Enanickal inspired the community to build a new church. Fr. Thomas Moolanani and Fr. Mathew Manakunnel continued the fundraising efforts. It was through the persistent efforts of Fr. Paul Pazhangatt that the construction of the new church became a reality. The foundation stone was laid on August 1, 1991, by Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, and the completed church was consecrated on September 8, 1992. Engineer T.S. Mathew and Varghese Mukkathirikal oversaw the construction.

From a small gathering of families in Madhavapuram, the Muttada Subdivision has blossomed into a thriving parish community with 491 families (plus 70 families in Kudappanakunnu substation).

Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life:

The Holy Family Church has nurtured several vocations to the priesthood and religious life. (See list of names).

The Feast of the Holy Cross:

The main feast of the Holy Family Church is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, celebrated on September 14th. Believers from all rites participate in this celebration.