Achievements

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Achievements

Shrine
Date: 01-12-2008

The Eparchial Bishop Mar. James Pazhayattil, diocese of Irinjalakuda has declared and promoted on 28 October 2008 Maparanam Holy Cross Church to the status of a Shrine on 01-12-2008 onwards. This is the first and only one recognized Shrine of Irinjalakuda diocese.

This achievement marks a significant recognition of the Mapranam Holy Cross Church as a revered Shrine, highlighting its importance in the Irinjalakuda diocese and the broader community.

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation
Date: 10-09-2008

The Thiruvananthapuram postal circle of Postal Department of India has sanctioned the permanent pictorial cancellation with the name of ‘Holy Cross Church Mapranam and the picture of Candles’ for Madayikonam Post Office on 10 September 2008.

This achievement highlights the recognition of the Holy Cross Church Mapranam in the postal circle, connecting the church with the broader communication network.

Guinness Record
Date: 08-09-2008

We made a flaming image using candles on 08-09-08 by Marsleeva Association of Rural Guidance (MARG). It is the World’s Largest Flaming Image and it acquired a Guinness Record Certificate. (Ref: Guinness World Records Book 2010 Page No. 130)

This Guinness Record achievement showcases the innovative and creative spirit of the Marsleeva Association of Rural Guidance, establishing its place in the record books.

Guinness Record
Date: 08-09-2008

We made a flaming image using candles on 08-09-08 by Marsleeva Association of Rural Guidance (MARG). It is the World’s Largest Flaming Image and it acquired a Guinness Record Certificate. (Ref: Guinness World Records Book 2010 Page No. 130)

This Guinness Record achievement showcases the innovative and creative spirit of the Marsleeva Association of Rural Guidance, establishing its place in the record books.

Global World Records

Global World Record has provided FOUR Global World Record Certificates for the largest candle in India, the world's largest flaming image using 30,500 candles, the world's largest candle cross, and the world's heaviest candle exhibition from 1 kg to 100 kg continuously.

These Global World Records highlight the exceptional achievements of the Marsleeva Association of Rural Guidance, solidifying its reputation on a global scale.

Limca Records

MARG has achieved FOUR Limca Records the year 2007 onwards. MARG made the largest candle in India and got a Limca record. The Candle weighs 1079kg, 22 ft in height, 18-inch diameter, and has a 56.52-inch circumference was manufactured by Marsleeva Association for Rural Guidance- MARG on 31 August 2007 and installed in Holy Cross Church Mapranam for a long time. (Ref: Limca Book of Records 2008 Page No.65). However, now, the Limca authorities granted two Limca records for the largest flaming Image using 30,500 candles and for the largest image of a Cross on 8 September 2008. (Ref: Limca Book of Records 2010 Page No.34). On August 30, 2010, MARG made the fourth Limca record in the category of 'Huge Candle Exhibition'. The exhibited candles were 100 in number and weighed continuously from 1 kg to 100 kg.

The multiple Limca Records achieved by MARG showcase its dedication to innovation and excellence, making a mark in the Limca Book of Records.

Festival Area
Date: 06-09-2008 to 15-09-2008

The Health Department of the Kerala Government declared a festival area from 06-09-2008 to 15-09-2008 in connection with the main feast of Holy Cross Church. The festival area covers a 5 km radius and was extended to 10 km on 10-09-2009.

The designation of a festival area highlights the significance of the Holy Cross Church's main feast, attracting a wider community to celebrate and participate.

Gazette Notifications
Dates: 08-09-2008, 15-06-2009, 17-09-2009

The Kerala Government published official gazettes on various dates (08-09-2008, 15-06-2009, and 17-09-2009) about Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, and its festival in September 2008. (Gazette Extraordinary no. 1973 dt. 08-09-2008, Gazette Extraordinary no. 1078 dt. 15-06-2009 & Gazette Extraordinary no. 1678 dt. 17-09-2009)

The inclusion of the church and its festival in the official gazettes by the Kerala Government underscores the significance and recognition of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam.

Destination Board
Date: October 2008

The Kerala Public Works Department sanctioned the installation of seven destination boards with the name of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, at various places along the Shornnur-Kodungalloor State highway in October 2008.

Inclusion on the Guinness World Records website showcases the exceptional achievement of creating the world's largest flaming image using candles, establishing Holy Cross Church's global recognition.

Guinness World Records Website
Date: 08-09-2008

Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, was included in the Guinness World Records website on 8 September 2008 by the Guinness World Records authorities.

The inclusion of the church and its festival in the official gazettes by the Kerala Government underscores the significance and recognition of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam.

Historical Pilgrim Centre
Date: 12-09-2008

The Thrissur District Tourism Promotion Council of the Kerala Government Tourism Department declared Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, as a Historical Pilgrim Centre on 12 September 2008.

The declaration of Holy Cross Church as a Historical Pilgrim Centre recognizes its cultural and historical significance, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Tourism Website
Date: 12-09-2008

The Kerala Government included Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, in the official website of the Tourism Department as a Pilgrim centre on 12 September 2008.

The inclusion of Holy Cross Church on the official Tourism Department website promotes its significance as a cultural and religious destination, attracting visitors and tourists.

Tourism Map
Date: 12-09-2008

Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, was included in the official Tourism Map of Thrissur district and in the World Tourism Map on 12 September 2008 by the Kerala Government Tourism Department.

The inclusion on official tourism maps enhances the visibility of Holy Cross Church, making it accessible to tourists and enthusiasts worldwide.

Tourism Festival
Date: 12-09-2008

The Thrissur District Tourism Promotion Council of the Kerala Government Tourism Department declared the main feast (The Exaltation of Holy Cross) of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, as a Tourism festival of Kerala on 12 September 2008.

The recognition of the feast as a tourism festival showcases the vibrant cultural and religious celebrations of Holy Cross Church, attracting tourists and fostering cultural exchange.

Commemorative Postage Stamp
Date: 14-09-2009

The Central Government of India's Postal Department released a Commemorative Postage Stamp on "Holy Cross Church," Mapranam, on 14 September 2009, featuring the picture of the church and candles.

This recognition as a subject of a commemorative stamp highlights the historical and cultural significance of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam.

Antiques

Mapranam Holy Cross Church boasts a collection of precious antiques, including a Teak Beam (seelanthi) crafted from a single teak trunk about 700 years ago, Italian Church Bell from the Portuguese Era, Palm Leaves dating back to the period of Kingship, Old Map of East India Company marking the church, a special Cross made from jack wood with Hindu architecture before 1081 years, wood-carved statues of Saints, old paintings, rock furniture and pillars, Suriyani Books (Holy Mass Books in Syrian), old Holy vestments, and more.

The collection of these historic antiques adds to the cultural and spiritual heritage of the church, preserving its rich history and craftsmanship.

Registered Societies & Trust

Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, is associated with three government-registered charitable societies: Social Welfare Centre, Mapranam; Marsleeva Association for Rural Guidance (MARG); Marsleeva Cultural Organisation (MASCO). The church also manages Marsleeva Kuries through Holy Cross Trust.

These registered entities reflect the church's commitment to community development, social welfare, and cultural preservation.

Utsavam
Date: 27-02-2010

Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, served as one of the venues for the Kerala Arts Festival (Utsavam) on 27 February 2010. The event featured "Chavittu Nadakam" performed at the Parish Hall of Holy Cross Church, organized by the Kerala Government Tourism Department.

Hosting the Kerala Arts Festival contributes to the cultural exchange and exposure of Holy Cross Church to a broader audience.

Tourism Brochure

The Kerala Government Tourism Department included information about Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, in the new edition of its official Tourism Brochure.

The inclusion of the church in the tourism brochure promotes its cultural and historical significance to tourists.

Tourism Festival Calendar

The Tourism Department of the Kerala Government featured the Feast of Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, from 12-15 of every September in its official Tourism Festival Calendar.

This inclusion in the official festival calendar highlights the celebration's cultural significance and promotes tourism to the area.

Patta Book

The Kerala Home Affairs Department issued a 'Patta Book,' also known as a Beat Book, to Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, for security reasons.

The issuance of the Patta Book underlines the significance of the church as a secure and important establishment.

Lottery Draw
Date: 09-06-2008

The Lottery Department of Kerala conducted a lottery ticket draw at Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, on 9 June 2008.

Hosting the lottery draw showcases the church's involvement in local events and activities.

Organizations

Holy Cross Church, Mapranam, is supported by various organizations including C.L.C. Senior, C.L.C. Junior, C.L.C. Professional, St. Vincent De-Paul Society, Franciscan Almaya Sabha, Legion of Mary, Jesus Youth Boys, Jesus Youth Girls, Mothers Unit, Prayer Groups, Choir, Altar Boys, Social Action Unit, Self Help Groups, Social Welfare Centre, Marsleeva Association for Rural Guidance (MARG), Marsleeva Cultural Organisation (MASCO), Holy Cross Trust (Marsleeva Kuries), and Holy Voice, which contribute to its spiritual, ethical, social, cultural, and material development.

The involvement of these organizations reflects the strong community engagement and support for the church's mission.

Marsleeva Arcade - Commercial and Residential Complex
Date: 12-10-2006

Holy Cross Church purchased 27 cents of land on 12 October 2006 along the Shornnur – Kodungallur State Highway adjacent to the Cross Chapel at Cross Junction, Mapranam. A four-storey building named Marsleeva Arcade was constructed, featuring shops on the ground floor, offices on the first floor, and eight residential apartments on the second and third floors.

The construction of Marsleeva Arcade fulfills the church's development goals and provides commercial and residential space in the community.

Marsleeva Cultural Centre (Snehanjali)
Date: 12-10-2006

Snehanjali is the auditorium of Holy Cross High School and the Parish Hall of Holy Cross Shrine of Mapranam. The 12,000 sq. ft. hall is primarily used for school purposes and was inaugurated on 29th April 2006 by Bishop Mar James Pazhayattil, Irinjalakuda Diocese.

The establishment of Snehanjali supports educational and cultural activities within the church community.

St. Mary's Grotto
Date: 04-06-2006

St. Mary's Grotto was constructed in front of the church and blessed on 4 June 2006. It features a combination of ancient and modern architecture.

The construction of St. Mary's Grotto provides a place for devotion and reflection for the church community.

Stone Cross and Stone Lamps
Date: 14-04-2006

The Stone Cross and Stone Lamps were constructed right in front of the Church and blessed on 14 April 2006 (Good Friday). The Stone Cross is 21 ft. in height and 11 ft. in width. Stone Lamps were erected on the left and right sides of the Stone Cross. The lighting of the lamps in the evening illuminates the surroundings and brings solace to devotees.

The Stone Cross and Stone Lamps serve as symbols of light and hope for the church community.

MSt. Rose Chapel
Date: 928 A.D.

St. Rose Chapel was constructed in front of the Church at the same time as the Church itself, in the year 928 A.D. It follows an ancient architectural model, and St. Rose is the patron saint of the chapel.

The construction of St. Rose Chapel adds historical and spiritual significance to the church's premises.

Cross Chapel
Date: 928 A.D. and 1978

Cross Chapel (St. John Chapel) was constructed beside the Shornur – Kodungallur state highway in 928 A.D. using an ancient architectural style. In front of the old chapel, a three-storey chapel was constructed in 1978. The main idol of the chapel is St. John Nepuncian, and the chapel is renowned for its Candle Lighting ritual. Devotees began lighting huge candles here since 1986.

Cross Chapel stands as a place of devotion and spiritual practices for the church community.

Infant Jesus Chapel
Date: 09-09-1995

A chapel was constructed in the name of Infant Jesus at Mapranam junction near the south boundary of Mapranam Parish. It was blessed on 9 September 1995.

The construction of Infant Jesus Chapel provides another place of worship and devotion within the church premises.

St. Xavier’s L.P. School
Date: 01-06-1938

Fr. Anthony Kavungal, former Vicar, founded a school at Mapranam in 1905 for Holy Cross Church Mapranam and named it Holy Cross L.P. School. Then, the school was handed over to the government due to lack of funds to manage. Years later, Fr. Abraham Pulikel, former Vicar, received the school from the government on 19 May 1938 and got it transferred to Karuvannur Convent of Franciscan Clarist Congregation. They renamed it to St. Xavier’s L.P. School and managed it from 1 June 1938 onwards.

St. Xavier’s L.P. School has contributed to the educational development of the community and continues to provide quality education.

Holy Cross High School
Date: 1984

The government-aided educational institution managed by Holy Cross Shrine, Mapranam, was founded in 1984. In 2009, the school celebrated its SILVER JUBILEE. With more than five hundred pupils and a dedicated team of teachers and staff, the school consistently achieves 100% pass rates and is regarded as the BEST school in Porathissery Grama Panchayat, Irinjalakuda Diocese’s Corporate Educational Agency, Irinjalakuda Educational District, and Thrissur Revenue District.

Holy Cross High School's educational excellence has positively impacted the local community.

Pope John Paul II Memorial Pallimeda
Date: 2004

The Pope John Paul II Memorial Pallimeda was constructed in 2004. It houses the Shrine's office, Rector’s office & bedroom, store, conference hall, visitor's room, and guest rooms. The total carpet area of the pallimeda is 4040 sq.ft. in two storeys. It was named in memory of Pope John Paul II.

The memorial pallimeda serves as a functional space and a tribute to Pope John Paul II's legacy.

United Nations Organizations – Commemorative Stamp
Date: 19-02-2010

A letter was received from Mr. Robert Gray, the Chief of United Nations Postal Administration, on 19 February 2010, indicating that Holy Cross Shrine Church Mapranam is considered for the issuance of a Commemorative Stamp for the 2012 – 2013 programs.

The consideration for a commemorative stamp highlights the international recognition of the church's significance.

Quotes

Quotes of Day

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."