St Andrew’s Orthodox Church to Launch Platinum Jubilee Celebrations on Sunday
HYDERABAD: St Andrew’s Orthodox Valiyapally in Secunderabad, originally built in 1865 as the Scottish Church during British rule, will begin its Platinum Jubilee celebrations on Sunday, marking 75 years since the establishment of the Orthodox parish in 1951.
Elders said Syrian Christian worship in Hyderabad began 75 years ago, although the original Scottish Church structure has stood on the premises for 165 years. The colonial-era building was once a key place of worship for British soldiers stationed in Secunderabad.
Church rebuilt in 2005 with historic relics installed
After Independence, the Government of India handed the property to the Syrian Christian community. The old structure was later demolished, and a new church was consecrated in March 2005. During the consecration, the holy relics of St Gregorios of Parumala and St Dionysius of Vattasseril were installed.
Church leaders noted that the Platinum Jubilee honours both the parish’s growth and its legacy of ecumenism.
Secretary Robin Wilson said the Jubilee inauguration coincides with the Feast of St Andrew. “The church is visited by thousands of Malayalis in the twin cities. Many nursing students and staff from Kerala worship here during their time in Hyderabad,” he said.
Ecumenism and charity set as central Jubilee theme
The year-long celebrations will include ecumenical gatherings, community service initiatives, medical camps, blood donation drives, a youth sports meet, and a musical evening featuring Malayalam congregations from Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
Vicar Rev Fr Bino Samuel said the church’s foundation rests on ecumenism and charity. He added that the historic Scottish Church was initially attended by families of English soldiers in the Secunderabad Cantonment until it was formally handed over on March 5, 1948, to the United Malayalam Congregation, bringing together members of the Mar Thoma, Orthodox, and Church of South India (CSI) communities.
