Nestled in the serene town of Kallada in Kollam district, Kerala, St. Mary's Orthodox Church, also known as Kallada Valiyapalli, stands as a beacon of centuries of faith, resilience, and cultural fusion. Deeply intertwined with the legacy of Mar Andrews, a revered figure known as Kallada Valiappooppan, in the Malankara Orthodox Church, the shrine is believed to be more than 700-year old.

Origin of St. Mary's Orthodox Church
The roots of St. Mary's Orthodox Church trace back to the early centuries of Christianity in India. The church's foundation is linked to the evangelistic efforts of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, who is believed to have arrived in Kerala in 52 A.D. His missionary journey led to the establishment of several churches across the region, laying the groundwork for what would become the Malankara Orthodox Church.

Portuguese Influence and the Koonen Kurish Satyam
The 16th century marked a tumultuous period for the St. Thomas Christians with the arrival of the Portuguese. Their attempts to impose Roman Catholicism led to significant conflicts, culminating in the historic Koonen Kurish Satyam of 1653. This event saw the Malankara Orthodox Christians breaking away from Portuguese dominance, reaffirming their identity and traditions.

Legacy of Mar Andrews
Amidst these challenging times, the arrival of Mar Andrews from Syria in 1678 along with his three brothers, brought a wave of spiritual renewal to the region through their evangelical work.

Mar Andrews, known for his simple lifestyle and stringent adherence to Syrian Christian customs, played a pivotal role in maintaining the orthodox practices and rites that were under threat. 

His journey through Kerala saw him facing numerous hardships, but he eventually found a haven in Kallada Valiyapalli, which he made his spiritual centre. His arrival revived the zeal for evangelism in the region, leading to the establishment of churches in neighbouring areas like Kundara, Chathannoor, and Kayamkulam. 

Mar Andrews passed away on Kumbham 19th of the Malayalam calendar (March 2, 1692), and his commemoration feast is celebrated annually on this day. His body was laid to rest beneath the Madbaha of the shrine. The Mar Andrews Commemoration Festival at St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church, West Kallada, is observed on March 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, corresponding to the Malayalam calendar.

Syncretic tradition
The church, earlier known by the name of Thulassery Manapurathu Marthamariyam Church, possesses a wooden beam believed to be over 700 years old, adorned with a cross, a Hindu symbol, and a Muslim crescent, that speaks volumes about the shrine’s syncretic tradition prevailed during the time.

Connectivity and Accommodation
Kallada town is well-connected by road with frequent bus service to major cities like Kollam, Kochi, Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram. Kallada town is nearly 30 kilometres away from Kollam city.  Kollam and Sasthamkotta is the nearest railway station to this church which is only three kilometers away.  

Accommodation in Kallada ranges from budget-friendly lodges to mid-range hotels and homestays. Visitors can also opt for more luxurious stays in nearby Kollam, where several high-end resorts and hotels offer top-notch amenities and services. 

Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam beach, Thangasseri Light House, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Jatayu Earth Centre, Sasthamkotta Lake, Monroe Island are the other tourism attractions near the church. Ashtamudi Lake is one of the largest and most picturesque lakes in Kerala, perfect for boating and experiencing the serene backwaters.

St. Mary's Orthodox Church in Kallada stands as a beacon of spiritual heritage and cultural fusion. Its historical significance, marked by the enduring legacy of Mar Andrews, and its serene ambiance make it a compelling destination for both pilgrims and history enthusiasts.

The church not only preserves the rich traditions of the Malankara Orthodox faith but also reflects the harmonious blend of different cultural influences over centuries.