Travelling has always been a source of peace, joy, and spiritual renewal in my life. By God’s abundant grace, I have been privileged to visit many places over the years as a student, as a professional, and with my family. Yet, during my recent pilgrimage to Chennai, I could not help but wonder, why it had taken me so long to visit such a sacred and spiritually enriching destination within our own country. Those who have already undertaken this pilgrimage will undoubtedly agree that it is a deeply inspiring and soul-stirring experience. Chennai holds a unique place in Christian history through its profound association with Our Lord Jesus Christ through St. Thomas the Apostle. The rich blend of faith, history, and devotion that permeates these holy sites leaves an enduring impression on every pilgrim.
I write this article in the hope that those who have not yet visited these sacred places may be encouraged to do so at the earliest opportunity and experience the spiritual blessings and enrichment they offer.
There are three principal sites in Chennai associated with St. Thomas the Apostle: the Santhome Cathedral Basilica and National Shrine, St. Thomas Mount, and Little Mount.
My pilgrimage began with participation in the 6:00 a.m. English Mass at the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, which is built over the tomb of St. Thomas. The magnificent architecture of the Basilica is both inspiring and uplifting. The church also houses the revered statue of Our Lady of Mylapore, made especially significant by the fact that St. Francis Xavier spent several months in Santhome in 1545, offering fervent prayers at this holy place. Although the Tomb and Museum officially open at 9:00a.m., the priest graciously allowed the devotees attending the Mass to visit these sacred spaces immediately afterward, making the experience even more memorable.
My next destination was St. Thomas Mount, situated approximately 12 km from Santhome. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Chennai International Airport on one side and the city skyline on the other. This holy hill is traditionally recognized as the site of the martyrdom of St. Thomas around 72 A.D. At the summit stands the Shrine of Our Lady of Expectation, a place of deep devotion. Other notable attractions include the Calvary of St. Thomas, which depicts the martyrdom of St. Thomas and the other Apostles of Jesus, and the Relic Chapel, where numerous relics of saints—including those of our own St. Joseph Vaz-are preserved for veneration.
My final stop was the Shrine of Our Lady of Health and Apostle St. Thomas, popularly known as Little Mount, located about 5 km from St. Thomas Mount. This sacred site is closely connected with the life and ministry of St. Thomas. Here pilgrims can visit the Cave of St. Thomas, where the Apostle is believed to have prayed and preached. Inside the cave, one can still see the hand impression traditionally associated with the saint. Just outside stands the Miraculous Bleeding Cross, said to have been carved by St. Thomas himself, set against the backdrop of a perennial spring. The Chapel of the Holy Cross further enhances the sanctity of the site by enshrining a fragment of the Original Crucifixion Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
This pilgrimage to Chennai was far more than a journey to historical landmarks; it was a deeply moving encounter with faith, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of one of Christ’s Apostles. The experience renewed my spiritual life and strengthened my appreciation of the rich Christian heritage preserved in India.
“My Lord and my God” (Jn 20:28). Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle is celebrated on 3rd July.
Adlete Mascarenhas