Mar Elia Cathedral Perunal

Sleeba (Holy Cross) Perunal

The Main Perunal of the Church – September 14

Sleeba Perunal commemorates the Exaltation of the Holy Cross—the instrument of our salvation and the visible sign of Christ’s triumph over sin and death. This sacred feast invites the faithful to venerate the Cross not as a symbol of defeat, but as the ultimate expression of divine love and self-sacrifice. It deepens our gratitude for the redemption won on Calvary and renews our commitment to Christ.

Celebrated annually on September 14, Sleeba Perunal is the main perunal of our parish, fostering unity, joy, and spiritual blessing. The evening Rasa through the locality sanctifies the neighbourhood, while the Perunal Day Rasa, Nercha after Qurbana, variety show, and fireworks serve as vibrant expressions of joy. These traditions draw our neighbours into the Church’s spiritual life, strengthen communal bonds, and warmly welcome newcomers to experience our faith and hospitality.

On a personal level, the feast offers renewal and spiritual protection. Venerating the Cross inspires interior conversion, hope in suffering, and confidence in God’s redeeming power to overcome every evil. Families bring offerings and prayers, seeking healing, guidance, and grace.

Perunal of Mar Elia

Feast of the Patron Saint – July 20

Mar Elia Orthodox Church, rooted in the sacred traditions of the Kerala Orthodox Church, is named for the prophet Elijah (Mar Elia), whose unwavering faith and fiery devotion inspire generations.

Each year on July 20, the parish solemnly observes the Perunal of Mar Elia, commemorating his heavenly ascent and prophetic legacy. The feast is marked with devotion, reflection, and thanksgiving to God for the life and witness of this great prophet.

The celebration features Holy Qurbana, special intercessory prayers, pradakshinam, and community fellowship, drawing the faithful from near and far for spiritual renewal and communal joy. It is a time for the parish family to strengthen their faith, experience unity, and receive blessings through the intercession of Mar Elia.

St Lazarus Church Perunal

Celebrated on all departed souls day'

St Lazarus Church, the cemetery church of Mar Elia Cathedral, celebrates its annual perunal on All Departed Souls Day, one week before the start of the 50-day Great Lent. The perunal, which usually falls in February, draws parishioners from near and far who come to pay tribute to their departed loved ones.

The celebration includes special prayers, dhooparpanam, rasa, and nercha distribution, creating a solemn yet communal observance of remembrance and intercession. It is a sacred moment of both grief and hope, reminding the faithful of the promise of resurrection and eternal life in Christ.

The perunal offers families an opportunity to gather together in prayer, honour their loved ones, and strengthen bonds within the parish community. In remembering the departed, the faithful are called to deeper faith, renewed charity, and hope in God’s mercy.

St. George Perunal

Geevarghese Sahada – May 6 & 7

St. George, known in the Malankara Orthodox tradition as Geevarghese Sahada (the Martyr), was a Roman soldier of Cappadocian origin who lived during the 3rd–4th century. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian (303 AD), George openly confessed his faith, refused to renounce Christ, and was executed by beheading. His steadfast witness made him one of the most venerated martyrs of the early Church.

Beyond the famous legend of “St. George and the Dragon”, he is remembered as a defender of the oppressed and a symbol of courage, faith, and divine protection. In the Kerala Orthodox tradition, Geevarghese Sahada is honored as a fearless martyr and heavenly intercessor.

The Perunal (Feast) of Geevarghese Sahada is celebrated in our parish every year on 6th and 7th of May, with prayers, Holy Qurbana, processions, and thanksgiving to God for the witness of this great saint.