St. Mary’s Orthodox Valiya Cathedral, located in Kumbazha, Pathanamthitta, is a beacon of faith and tradition within the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church Since 1887.Church Foundation Stone was Laid by Saint Parumala Thirumeni on 1894, the cathedral has served as a spiritual home for generations, offering worship, fellowship, and community support for over 138 years. What started as a simple place of prayer has grown into a vibrant church community with over 378 families and 1,600 members. In 1986, it was elevated to the status of a Valiya Cathedral, marking its importance in the church hierarchy and its continued dedication to the Orthodox faith. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Mary, the Mother of God, and also honors St. Thomas the Apostle and St. George, saints deeply revered in the Orthodox tradition.The Holy Relics of St. Thomas were placed at this cathedral on July-6-2009 .The relics have made the cathedral Church a bustling center for pilgrims from all walks of life seeking blessings. It is home to the sacred 'Skintho Yukno' of Mother Mary, A powerful symbol of divine grace that draws many pilgrims. Rooted in the ancient liturgical practices of the Orthodox Church, the cathedral is a place where tradition and spiritual devotion come alive. Services, sacraments, and prayers connect worshippers to their faith and heritage. Beyond worship, the cathedral actively engages in community outreach, youth programs, and charity work, staying committed to Christ’s call to serve others. The annual St. Thomas Day pilgrimage unites the faithful in prayer and celebration. Inspired by the life and teachings of Mother Mary & Saint Gregorios (Parumala Thirumeni) remains a welcoming place for all, Whether for worship, fellowship or service, there is always a place for you here. We invite you to be part of our growing spiritual family—united in faith, tradition, and love.

• "Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord." Jeremiah 17:7

Standing proudly on the banks of the Achankovil River, St. Mary’s Orthodox Valiya Cathedral is the first Christian church in Kumbazha—an enduring symbol of unity, faith, and divine grace. Founded over 138 years ago, this sacred space was blessed by Saint Parumala Thirumeni, who personally laid its foundation stone in 1894 AD. The church’s origins trace back to 1833 AD, when faithful Christian families from Makkamkunnu and nearby villages established a humble church. As their numbers grew, a temporary shed called Kumbazha Bethel Church was built in 1887. Through perseverance, they secured permanent land and built the church that still stands tall today. Saint Parumala Thirumeni’s connection to the church is profound—he visited before his pilgrimage to Jerusalem and received the congregation’s heartfelt support, noting it in his own hand. Despite facing internal disputes, the community stood strong. A formal agreement in 1903 AD laid the foundation for parish unity. Under visionary leaders like Kochitti Geevarghese Kathanar, the church thrived, expanding its structure and spirit. Major milestones include the 1936 church renovation, the 1953 erection of the Holy Cross, and the construction of a new, grand church in 1975, consecrated by His Holiness Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews I. The altars were dedicated to St. Thomas, St. George, and Parumala Thirumeni. On January 2, 1986, the church was elevated to Valiya Cathedral status, a crowning moment of glory. Today, with 378 families and 1,600 members, the cathedral remains a beacon of the Orthodox faith—vibrant, united, and rooted in legacy. It continues to inspire generations, reminding all who enter of the power of faith, sacrifice, and community.