Overview

The origin of St. Mary’s Forane Church in Muttom, Cherthala, dates back to 1023 AD. In antiquity, the early Christian community of Cherthala travelled north to Pallippuram—the historic mother church founded between 52 and 72 AD—for the Holy Qurbana and reception of sacraments. Given the long walking distance and the frequency with which liturgical rites commenced before the arrival of worshippers from Cherthala, permission was sought to erect a local place of worship. In 1023 AD, a small chapel was constructed at the northern edge of Muttom junction, where the St. Joseph shrine stands today. This modest sanctuary ministered to generations of coastal believers for over five centuries.As the parish community grew significantly, the present monumental church was erected around 1600 AD in grand Portuguese architectural design. Constructed with expansive proportions designed to hold the entire congregation, the edifice is acclaimed for its massive bell tower, ornately carved and gilded wooden retables, an ancient monolithic granite cross, and an indigenous silver-plated flag mast (Kodimaram) reflecting Saint Thomas Christian tradition.The church's renown as a major Marian pilgrimage center surged following miraculous manifestations reported in August 1945. Affectionately venerated as Muttathamma (Our Lady of Muttom), the miraculous statue was enshrined facing the main highway, turning it into a perpetual sanctuary of intercession, thanksgiving, and vehicle blessings for commuters and pilgrims alike. Liturgically, the parish is also renowned for celebrating the rare Vivaha Thirunal (Feast of the Espousal of Mary and Joseph) on January 21, alongside the grand Feast of Mary Immaculate celebrated annually in December.