Thrissur, 3 October (IANS) Basilica of our Lady of Doles, known as Puthanpali (New Church), is celebrating its centenary on this Sunday, with grandeur, attracts political dignitaries, pastors, and thousands of loyal devotees. Standing 160 feet long with a bell tower up to 260 feet, Basilica is the longest church in India and is home to one of the highest vine towers in Asia. However, it is its vast charitable functions that have created a difference for society in Kerala.
This celebration is as much about the confidence in action as Christians as it is about the astonishing architecture that is proud to be such a beautiful church on their soil.
Its 25,000 square -foot Gothic expansion is decorated with 11 altars, detailed mural paintings, complex icons and sculptures depicting scenes of the Holy Bible.
The interior of the church is a visible symphony, combining devotion and artistic grandeur that enchanted visitors and swells the hearts of Keralas with pride.
Speaking to IANS, Rector Father Thomas Kakseri, Live Wire behind the year -long centenary celebrations, said that the support of the entire members of the reputed church has done all this.
“The true remedy of Puthanpali is not only in its stone and peak, but in the heart of its remuneration. Since October 2024, 590 families of the church have raised around Rs 2.50 crore to support education, healthcare and community welfare programs.
“This remarkable task of charity reflects the spiritual mission of the church, serving the society with devotion as its architecture. We are able to receive the plans made a year ago due to the support of the members of the church,” said Father Kakkaseri.
Our Lady of Dools’ visit to Basilica began on 10 October 1925, when Mar Francis Wazpali arranged for temporary worship at a nearby school building.
The Foundation Stone was placed on December 21, 1929, but the delay in construction due to the global upheaval, including two world wars, faced a delay, finally ended in its consecration on November 24, 1940.
Over the years, the church evolved into height and spiritual importance and was eventually given the title honor of Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1992.
Basilica’s major milestone included a historic reception of Pope John Paul II in 1986, inauguration of the Peritual Advention Center in 1987 and the inauguration of the Majestic Bell Tower in 2006.
As the centenary celebrations emerge, Putipali stands as a will for faith, flexibility and community spirit.
From its growing Gothic spires to countless life, touched by its charitable work, the church proves that greatness is measured not only in height, but also in the heart.
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SG/Red