St. Thomas Forane Syro-Malabar Catholic Church

Introduction:

St. Thomas Forane Syro‑Malabar Catholic Church, Dharmaram, Bengaluru is a significant spiritual and cultural hub on Christ School Road, near Dairy Circle, in the SG Palya area.

History & Background

Founded in 1983, it originated through active dialogue between Dharmaram Theology College and the Archdiocese of Bengaluru, led by Archbishop P. Arokyasamy; Fr. Jose Frank CMI was its first parish priest.

A 2¼‑acre plot within Dharmaram College gifted to establish a chapel and parish office; by 1990, a multipurpose auditorium was built, becoming the center for Sunday services.

The dedicated church building was completed in 1998 and shortly thereafter, in 1999, the parish was elevated to a Forane church, serving as a key regional center.

Schedule & Spiritual Life

Mass (Holy Qurbana):

Sundays: Malayalam services at 06:00, 07:15, 09:00, and 18:00; English at 11:00.

Daily (Mon–Sat): Malayalam at 06:15 and 18:00.

Online services: Sunday at 09:00 (Malayalam) and 11:00 (English); with weekday live streaming .

Community, Charitable Works & Pilgrimage Status

With over 1,500 families (~10,000 faithful), the church is vibrant with many active lay ministries: St. Vincent de Paul Society, Cherupushpa Mission League, youth groups, mothers’ forums, liturgical choirs, and more.

St. Chavara Krupalaya, started in 2005, is a residence and support center for underprivileged or differently-abled individuals, managed by FDSHJ Sisters.

In 1996, it was designated a Diocesan Pilgrim Centre under the Mandya Diocese, reflecting its role as a regional spiritual landmark.