St. Francis Xavier’s Church in Vijayapuram, Trichur, an emblem of enduring faith and historical grandeur, stands as a venerable testament to centuries of spiritual devotion. Nestled in a tranquile corner of the metropolitan cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur, the church’s origins can be traced back to a period of significant ecclesiastical expansion in the early nineties. It was established in 1909 to serve the burgeoning Christian community of Cheroor by providing a place of worship that would inspire and sustain the faith of its parishioners. The initial construction was funded by the local benefactors including Sri Manavalan Alangattukaran Chakkunny Porinchu who generously donated the land and the foundation stone was laid on 7 August 1910 by Rt. Rev. Dr. John Menachery, Bishop of Trichur. The church was consecrated on 7 May 1911 by the same bishop, marking the official beginning of this sacred edifice. Venerable Fr. Yohannan Ukken was then appointed as the first vicar, a role he diligently fulfilled from 1911 to 1914.
In 1936, the church joyfully commemorated its silver jubilee, an occasion that honoured 25 years of unwavering spiritual leadership and dedication. This milestone was a testament to the enduring commitment of the clergy and the deep faith of the congregation, reflecting a quarter-century of guiding the community through times of both challenge and growth. Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations and expansions, each adding layers to its rich tapestry of history while preserving its original splendour. In 1957, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Antony Vellaniparambil, the north wing was constructed, enhancing the church’s facilities. The golden jubilee in 1961 underscored the church’s longstanding commitment to pastoral care, followed by a major renovation in 1964 overseen by Rev. Fr. John Vazhappilly. A further significant renovation occurred in 1991, directed by Rev. Fr. Lawrence Olakkengil, which preserved both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the church.
The foundation stone for a new church was laid on 8 September 2003 by His Grace Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, Metropolitan Archbishop of Trichur. This significant event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the church’s history. The new church was solemnly consecrated on 3 December 2005, by Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, with Mar James Pazhayattil, Bishop of Irinjalakuda, and Mar Andrews Thazhath, Auxiliary Bishop of Trichur. Rev. Fr. Paul Vattakuzhy, the vicar, played a central role in this momentous occasion, signifying the culmination of a shared vision and the church’s continued evolution to serve its growing congregation.
The interior renovation of the new church was meticulously completed under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Ajith Thachoth, vicar and was ceremoniously reconsecrated on 14 August 2022 by His Excellency Mar Tony Neelankavil. The church has also been a hub of charitable activities, providing support and solace to those in need. St. Francis Xavier’s Church now stands as a luminous beacon of faith and community service in Vijayapuram, Cheroor, embodying its historical heritage and its continuing commitment to spiritual and communal growth.
