Our Lady Of Ransom Church, Kanyakumari - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 2 km from Kanyakumari Bus Station, Our Lady of Ransom Church is a Catholic church located at Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the prominent churches in Tamil Nadu, and among the must-include places in Kanyakumari pilgrimage tour.

Our Lady of Ransom Church is dedicated to Mother Mary. The original modest thatched church built in the 15th century was transformed into a prominent structure by 1700 AD. Built in the Roman architectural style, a statue of Mother Mary was transported from Rome to the church, where it was enshrined at the center of a golden altar and venerated as Alangara Matha. Flanking this statue are the figures of St. Joseph and St. Francis Xavier. In 1862, Kanyakumari was established as an independent parish, and the present church was constructed in 1900 AD.

The Kanyakumari Parish nearly aligns with the civil village of Kanyakumari. Archaeological evidence indicates that St. Thomas, a disciple of Jesus Christ, visited this region. In 1542, St. Francis Xavier arrived and was pleased to discover the 'Our Lady of Delights Grotto' in Kanyakumari. This site subsequently became a hub for Jesuit missionary activities extending from Thoothoor to Ramanathapuram. It is believed that the grotto, where St. Francis Xavier worshipped, eventually evolved into the church of Our Lady of Ransom. Our Lady of Ransom serves as the Patron of the congregation in Spain, which played a crucial role in redeeming Christians from Muslim invasion in 1218.

The newly built church is renowned for its exquisite Gothic architecture, which rises majestically against the backdrop of the ocean. It measures 153 feet in length, 53 feet in width, and 153 feet in height, all of which symbolize the beads of the Holy Rosary. The two side towers, which are connected to the main tower, serve as a belfry housing church bells that were imported from Italy in the year 1900. Its white spires and stained glass windows contribute significantly to its aesthetic appeal, while the golden cross atop the central tower enhances the charm of this remarkable edifice.

Each year, the feast of Our Lady of Ransom is observed for ten days in December, commencing with a flag hoisting ceremony. The festivities include an evening Corpus Christi Procession on the eighth day, conducted with great reverence. Special vespers and celebrations take place on the ninth evening, culminating in a grand golden car procession. On the ninth and tenth days of the Annual Feast, Our Lady of Ransom and St. Joseph are paraded in a magnificent golden car procession, accompanied by traditional Nathaswaram music and the heartfelt praises of Mother Mary through the art of pala padal.

Timings: 5.30 AM - 8 PM

Entry: Free