St. Gregorios Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Church

St. Gregorios Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Church, Hosa Road, is a parish of the Bangalore Diocese, serving the Jacobite Syrian Christian community in the Hosa Road and surrounding areas of Bangalore.

Our church is part of the ancient Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch, one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world. We maintain the apostolic faith and traditions that have been passed down for over two millennia, tracing our heritage directly to the apostles of Jesus Christ.

Our Patron Saint

Our church is dedicated to St. Gregorios of Parumala, one of the most revered saints of the Malankara Church. Born as Geevarghese Mar Gregorios in Mulanthuruthy, Kerala (1848-1902), he was consecrated as Metropolitan in 1876 at the age of 27, making him one of the youngest bishops in church history.

St. Gregorios led a life of exemplary holiness, deep spirituality, and selfless service. He was known for his humility, asceticism, and miraculous healing powers. Throughout his ministry, he visited parishes across Kerala, ministering to the faithful and strengthening the church during challenging times.

He departed to eternal rest on November 2, 1902, and was canonized in 1947, becoming the first saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church to be formally canonized. His mortal remains rest at the St. Peter and St. Paul's Church in Parumala, Kerala, which has become a major pilgrimage center where thousands gather annually, especially on his feast day. Many miracles and healings have been attributed to his intercession, making him one of the most beloved saints in the Syriac Orthodox tradition.

The Bangalore Diocese

The Bangalore and Mylapore Diocese was established to bring together the faithful living in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu under one spiritual leadership. Under the pastoral care of His Grace Mor Osthatheos Issac, our diocese serves the growing Syriac Orthodox community in South India.

Our diocese falls under the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch and is part of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church in India, which traces its origins to the apostolic mission of St. Thomas to India in 52 AD. The Malankara Church has maintained its unique identity while remaining in communion with the Patriarch of Antioch.

Our Community

Our parish serves families from various parts of South India who have settled in the Hosa Road area, including neighborhoods such as:

  • Singasandra
  • Electronic City
  • Bommanahalli
  • HSR Layout
  • And surrounding areas

We are a close-knit community that comes together for worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth. Our church provides a spiritual home away from home for those who have moved to Bangalore for work or other purposes.

Our Mission

Our mission is to:

  • Preserve and practice the ancient faith and liturgical traditions of the Syriac Orthodox Church
  • Provide spiritual guidance and pastoral care to our parishioners
  • Nurture the faith of younger generations through religious education
  • Serve the community through charitable works and social service
  • Maintain communion with the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch
  • Promote unity and fellowship among the faithful

Parish Organizations & Spiritual Associations

Our parish has a vibrant community life with various spiritual organizations and activities serving all age groups. Each organization is structured with elected committees and works under the guidance of our Vicar.

Sunday School

Age Group: Children (3-14 years)

Our Sunday School is the foundation of religious education, teaching children the Orthodox faith, Bible stories, church traditions, prayers, and the lives of saints. The curriculum is designed age-appropriately with dedicated teachers who nurture young minds in the faith.

Activities:

  • Weekly classes after Holy Qurbana
  • Age-based class groups (Pre-primary, Primary, Secondary)
  • Annual examinations and certificate programs
  • Special programs on feast days and church celebrations
  • Arts and crafts activities with religious themes
  • Summer vacation Bible school programs

Contact the Sunday School Superintendent for enrollment and class schedules.

MGJSM - Mor Gregorios Jacobite Students' Movement

Age Group: High School & College Students (14-25 years)

MGJSM is the spiritual organization for students, fostering deeper spiritual life and fellowship among the student community. It is one of the oldest Christian student organizations with a rich tradition of nurturing young minds in the Orthodox faith.

Objectives:

  • Deepen spiritual life through prayer and study
  • Create livelier sense of fellowship among students
  • Develop leadership qualities in young members
  • Promote Orthodox Christian values in academic life
  • Organize seminars, debates, and study groups

Activities: Monthly meetings, Bible study circles, educational seminars, social service initiatives, sports events, and diocesan-level conferences.

Youth Association (JSOYA)

Age Group: Young Adults (18-35 years)

The Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Youth Association provides a vibrant platform for young members to grow in faith, serve the community, and develop leadership skills. The association plays a crucial role in parish activities and outreach programs.

Focus Areas:

  • Spiritual formation through retreats and prayer meetings
  • Bible study and theological discussions
  • Service projects and charitable activities
  • Leadership development programs
  • Cultural and recreational activities
  • Assisting in church services and feast day celebrations

Martha Mariyam Samajam (Women's Association)

Members: All women of the parish

Named after the blessed Virgin Mary and the faithful sisters Martha and Mary, this association brings together women for spiritual enrichment, fellowship, and service. With the Blessed Virgin Mary as patron saint, the Samajam is a pillar of prayer and community service.

Activities:

  • Monthly prayer meetings with hymns and devotions
  • Bible study groups and spiritual discussions
  • Charitable works and support for those in need
  • Assistance in church events and feast preparations
  • Visiting sick and elderly parishioners
  • Fundraising for church and community projects
  • Special programs on women saints' feast days

Church Choir

Our choir enhances worship through sacred music, preserving the ancient Syriac musical tradition while incorporating Malayalam Christian hymns. The choir plays a vital role in creating the spiritual atmosphere during liturgical celebrations.

Activities: Weekly practice sessions, performing during Holy Qurbana and special services, learning traditional Syriac chants and contemporary Christian songs.

New members with or without musical experience are welcome. Training is provided.

Family Prayer Units

Small prayer groups meeting in homes throughout the month, fostering intimate fellowship and spiritual growth among families. These gatherings strengthen community bonds through shared prayer, scripture reading, and mutual support.

Activities: Rotating house prayer meetings, Bible study, hymn singing, and fellowship meals.

Parish Administration

Parish Managing Committee

The parish is administered by an elected Managing Committee working under the guidance of the Vicar. The committee manages church affairs, finances, property, and coordinates various activities.

Committee Structure:

  • President: The Vicar (Ex-officio)
  • Vice President: Elected from parish members
  • Secretary: Manages correspondence and records
  • Treasurer: Handles financial matters
  • Committee Members: Elected representatives

All positions have a two-year term and are elected democratically by parish members.

Special Events & Celebrations

  • Feast Days: Celebration of major feast days including St. Gregorios Day, Christmas, Easter, and other important dates in the church calendar
  • Passion Week Services: Special daily services during Holy Week commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of our Lord
  • Nineveh Fast: Three-day fast observed with prayer services
  • Community Events: Cultural programs, fellowship gatherings, and community service activities
  • Charitable Works: Regular assistance to those in need, supporting educational initiatives, and social service projects

Visit Us

We welcome all to experience the beauty of ancient Christian worship and fellowship.

Contact Us