About
History
Kurisumala is one of the most prominent pilgrim centres in South India. It is situated Kerala, in the Diocese of Neyyattinkara.The word Kurisumala literally means Mount of the Cross. It lies about three thousand feet (more than 900 m) above the sea level on the Western ghats.
The scenic beaty and serenity make this mount most suited for prayer meditation and God experience.
Singing, chanting prayers and taking temporary recess at each of the fourteen Stations pilgrims commemorate the journey of Christ to Golgotha. The devotees while climbing the mount experience the healing touch of God. A good number of pilgrims get relief from torments, heart breaking thoughts and emotional crisis.
Journey from darkness to light
Five decades ago Kurisumala was known as ‘Kondaketty Mala’. The history of Kurisumala can be traced back to 1940s. The humble farmers, George and Esthron resided in a cave on the summit and experienced the wonders and healing power of the Cross.
On 27th March 1957 Fr. John Baptist OCD, a Belgium missionary climbed the summit with a small group of parishners and established a wooden Cross. That marked the beginning of the pilgrimage.
The Cross on the summit has a history of its own. Due to bad weather the wooden Cross was partially damaged. There for a 24 feet (7m) high concrete Cross was established in its place.
In the 1980s the 14 Stations of the Cross were erected. In 1984 it was declared the official Pilgrim Centre by Rt. Rev. Dr. Jacob Acharuparambil, Bishop of Trivandrum Diocese.
With the bifurcation of Trivandrum Diocese, Kurisumala became part of the Diocese of Neyyattinkara. As a result of the untiring efforts of many priests, religious and lay people further developments were brought about. In ‘Sangamavedi’ (the meeting place) the Holy Altar, the Shrines of Pieta and Gethsamane were built.
Kurisumala Pilgrim Centre has been going through a significant phase of development since the commencement of Golden Jubilee Celebrations. Various spiritual, social, cultural and ecumenical programes have been organised on the basis of the jubilee theme ‘Cross is the unifying Force to Mankind’.
