Located in Kothamangalam, the St. Thomas Church, also known as Mar Thoma Cheriapally, is very significant historically and culturally in Ernakulam. Saint Baselios Yeldho is buried in this prominent parish in India. This church, which constantly welcomes pilgrims seeking the Saint's intercession, is a beacon of communal unity. The pilgrims come from a variety of castes and creeds. Moreover, on all Saturdays, the Holy Qurbono on three altars is offered in the church with special prayers seeking the Saint’s intercession.
The Cheriapally Festival, also known as Kanni 20 Perunnal, takes place on October 2 and 3. This is a great time to visit the church because it is especially lively during this time. On these days, Dhukrono of the Saint is celebrated in the church embracing spiritual grandeur in the festivities.
On the day of the festival, his successors are still allowed to carry the church's traditional lamp and lead the Rassa (Church procession) in remembrance of the time a Nair (Hindu) youth-led Mor Yeldho Bava to this church. Bava is the Patron Saint of Kothamangalam and Mar Thoma Cheriapally is the source of eternal light in this place. During the festival, devotees offer to their Church the fruits of their labour as well as a share of the money that they earn.
