SEVEN&HALF
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SEVEN AND A <strong>HALF</strong> CHURCHES OF ST.THOMAS : PROF, M.M.NINAN<br />
St.Thomas Cross<br />
The cross reputedly erected by the Apostle Thomas in Kokkamangalam (the original one is at<br />
Pallippuram; the replica in stone was erected in 2002).<br />
This splendid granite carving of the Cross is erected at the Vembanadu lake shore in honour of St<br />
Thomas arrival in 52 AD and in remembrance of his first foot prints on the land of Kokkamangalam<br />
The pilgrims make seven circles around the Cross either by walking or kneeling.<br />
The seven storied Kerala lamp burning in front of the Relic denotes the integration of seven<br />
Christian Communities founded by the Apostle. Pouring coconut oil in this lamp is a sacred practice<br />
here. The archives of Kokkamangalam are also an attraction with historians, pilgrims and tourists.<br />
A church was erected near the village temple. The present church was rebuilt in 1900 on the same<br />
site.<br />
St. Thomas sailed to Kokkamangalam where he preached the gospel for about a year. 1600 people<br />
converted to Christianity through him according to the narration in "Rampan Pattu", an ancient form<br />
of Christian folk-song prevalent in Kerala. He formed a Christian community at Kokkamangalam<br />
and enshrined a Cross for the faithful. This cross was later cut off by saboteurs, and thrown into the<br />
Lake Vembanad, through which it floated up to Pallippuram, where it is enshrined.<br />
50
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