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CSI St Georges Cathedral

CSI St. George’s Cathedral is a place of immense faith for the Christians of the state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the most popular and important churches of the state and attracts large number of devotees. The cathedral is one of the oldest churches and known for its architectural grandiose.

Location

CSI St. George’s Cathedral is located in the heart of Chennai city and stands out as a wonderful expression of British-styled architecture. The grand building with its steeple rising high into the skies is a visual delight.

History

CSI St. George’s Cathedral was built in 1815 AD and is regarded as one with the most creative architecture created in true ancient style. The Church was designed by Colonel J L Caldwell and built by Captain De Havilland during the reign of the British East India Company. The Anglican Bishop of Calcutta, Rev. Thomas Fanshaw inaugurated the church a year after it was built, in 1816 AD. A cemetery was carved out of the eastern part of the church which was separated from the main structure.

Interesting Things to Look For

There are many interesting things and objects that capture your attention and heart. The belfry, the altar table, the bells and the chiming device being used today were donated by prominent personalities of those times. The brass altar cross, the gold chalice and paten for Holy Communion are from the early 1900s. The chalice weighs 3 lbs 7 ounces in 18 carat gold and has diamonds in the form of a cross. There are turret clocks that face three directions of the church and are placed at a height of approximately 140 feet. These clocks were donated by the directors of the British East India Company.

Role of the Church in Today’s Society

Today, all key diocesan events are held at the Cathedral. These include the ordination service and major celebration events of the diocese where people from all over the diocese would join in. The Cathedral also plays a major role in the life of rural congregations. It has been helping people in different villages by providing financial and emotional support to help people overcome the clutches of poverty. In recent times, the Cathedral has built eight village churches in different village pastorates in the Diocese of Tamil Nadu. The trust is also in the process of building a church in the Sriperumbudur town of the state.

Events

The management of the church is under the control of the Bishop of CSI Madras Diocese Rt. Rev. V. Devasahayam. Regular services and evening services are held every Sunday in English and Tamil. Men’s Fellowship, Women’s Fellowship, Youth Fellowship, Choir and Men’s Chorus are held on specific days. Holy Communion is held on second and fourth Sundays every month.