India has always been in the spotlight globally due to its historical landmarks, which attract large numbers of tourists every year. These sites of historical significance showcase unique features, allowing visitors to explore both the interiors and exteriors and appreciate the structural beauty of these places. St. George’s Cathedral in Chennai stands as a testament to the past, drawing people from around the world to witness this remarkable part of our national heritage, which continues to be cherished.
- Location: Cathedral Road, Chennai
- Built In: 1815
- Built By: Col. J. L. Caldwell (East India Company)
- Timings:
- Morning Service: 7:30 a.m.
- Evening Service: 6:00 p.m.
- Holy Communion: 2nd & 4th Sundays
- How to Reach: Accessible by taxi, MTC buses, suburban trains; near Chennai Airport and Railway Station
- Sightseeing: Stained-glass windows, memorials, statues, 8 bells, environmental programs
History
The construction of the church was completed in 1815, and it was consecrated in the same year. It is believed that the funds for the construction were raised through a lottery. The cost of the construction was estimated at 57,225 pagodas.
The church’s design was proposed by an engineer named Colonel J. L. Caldwell, who was employed by the East India Company. The services were initially conducted by the Presidency Chaplain, and the church was consecrated in 1816.
Since its inception, the church has served as a cemetery. Over the years, the church has received several gifts from various organizations, authorities, and individuals. For instance, the British forces presented insignia they had collected during the Battle of 1799. The East India Company donated the turret clock. Other gifts include the belfry, altar table, lectern, gold chalice, and Litany stool, among others.
By 1835, the church had attained the status of the town’s principal cathedral.
Starting in 1947, the cathedral underwent several changes to its structure, and new additions were made. On September 27 of the same year, it was inaugurated as part of the Church of South India.
Today, the church serves a congregation of over 1,200 families in and around the city. Various departments such as the Community Welfare Centre, the Leprosy Project, Sunday School, and Gospel Teams have been actively serving the community since their inception.
The cathedral hosts all major diocesan events. The Cathedral’s Men’s Fellowship is involved in social activities like visiting hospitals and prisons and helping to distribute refreshments after the Good Friday service.
The Women’s Fellowship meets regularly for prayers and visits the Senior Citizens Home managed by the Cathedral on the fourth Friday of each month. They are also involved in supporting the underprivileged members of society.
The church’s 40-member choir sings during every worship service. Additionally, choirs from outside are encouraged to participate in services.
The “Green Pastures” environment group organizes awareness programs to address ecological concerns and explore solutions to these issues.
Today, St. George’s Cathedral is considered one of the most important churches in the world. Located in the heart of the city, it has become one of the town’s landmarks, attracting visitors regularly.
The church is managed by a trust that oversees its activities, building, and assets.
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Structure
The church is renowned for its stained-glass windows. The two panels on either side depict major events from the Bible: The Baptism of Jesus and the image of Jesus after his resurrection, with Mary Magdalene by his side.
Equally stunning are the stained-glass panels installed above the cathedral doors. When sunlight shines through them, it casts beautiful medieval-style images, creating a mesmerizing effect for visitors.
There is a statue of Rt. Rev. Daniel Corrie near the left entrance, where he is depicted holding a Bible and blessing a young boy. A bas-relief of Rt. Rev. Thomas Dealtry can be seen as one enters the church through the main entrance.
A bust of Rt. Rev. Frederick Gell is placed at the entrance leading to the Lady Chapel, near the statue of Reginald Heber.
The cathedral has eight bells, which were presented at Christmas in 1873. These bells vary in size.
The church also features several memorials and tablets commemorating personalities associated with the church, as well as those who served in the British army. Memorials for engineers, doctors, merchants, and others are also installed here.
Daily Service and Other Events
- Morning services are held at 7:30 a.m., and evening services are held at 6:00 p.m. on Sundays.
- Holy Communion is organized on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.
Best Time to Visit
While the church is open year-round, the best time to visit is between October and February when the weather is more favorable for sightseeing. Visitors can explore the church and other parts of the city without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rainfall.
How to Reach
Reaching St. George’s Cathedral is easy as it is located in the heart of Chennai, a city well-connected by rail, road, and air networks to other states, cities of India, and major international destinations.
Chennai’s international airport is one of the busiest in India, with over 300 flights daily. The city’s railway station is also busy, with trains running in all directions throughout the day.
From the airport or railway station, visitors can hire a private taxi or use the network of MTC buses and other public transportation options, including suburban railways. Bus fares are reasonably priced, though non-metered auto-rickshaws may charge higher fares.
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