Among the oldest churches in Kerala, St. Mary’s Church at Niranam (popularly known as Niranam Valiyapally) in Pathanamthitta is believed to be one of the churches established by St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, in AD 54. This church, rich in history and tradition, celebrates several important feasts each year, attracting numerous devotees.

The church is renowned for its annual feast, held on December 21st, commemorating St. Thomas. Other significant feasts include the Feast of the Assumption of St. Mary (Vaangipu Perunnal) on August 15th, and the feasts of Mar Thoma II and Mar Thoma V on May 10th, whose mortal remains are buried in the church.

The St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church, Niranam, has been a symbol of Christian faith in Kerala since its inception by St. Thomas. The church’s historical significance is underlined by its connection to the apostle, who established it adjacent to the Sri Thrikpaleswara Hindu Temple of Lord Shiva. The present church building, constructed in 1912, is the fourth structure, replacing one built in 1259. Niranam was a coastal region in the first century, and local legends recount how St. Thomas re-established the church after recovering a lost cross from the river.

Niranam Church was a significant center for the Orthodox Church in Kerala, serving as the southern headquarters for centuries. It witnessed many historical events, including the establishment of a Catholicate in the Indian Orthodox Church in 1912. The first and second Catholicos of the church were ordained here, and four Malankara Metropolitans passed away while residing at the church, with two buried on its grounds.

The church celebrates the feasts of St. Mary, St. Thomas, and Mar Thoma II and Mar Thoma V with great devotion. The Feast of the Assumption of St. Mary on August 15th commemorates the belief that her body was taken to heaven by angels. The Nativity of St. Mary (Ettu Nompu) is celebrated on September 8th, attracting people from various denominations and religions.

The Feast of the Martyrdom of St. Thomas on December 21st remembers his missionary work and martyrdom in Mylapore near Madras on December 21, 72 AD. The Feast of St. Behanan on December 27th honors the martyrdom of St. Behanan, his sister St. Sara, and 40 other martyrs.

Feasts of Mar Thoma II and Mar Thoma V are celebrated together on May 10th. These High Priests provided significant leadership to the church, with Mar Thoma V known for his steadfast defense of the church's independence despite facing considerable adversity.

All these feasts are marked by grand processions (Raasa), communal meals, and the Holy Communion (Qurbana), celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, making Niranam Valiyapally a vital center of spiritual and cultural heritage in Kerala.