Diocese of calcutta

9, Mirza Ghalib Street, Kol-700 087 : Sunday Worship Service Timing – 8:30am

The story of St. Thomas’ Church is bound up with that of old Calcutta Free School, now known as St. Thomas’ School (situated presently in Kidderpore). In 1830 Bishop Turner first proposed to build a church in the school compound and his suggestion was adopted. The foundation stone was laid with due ceremony on Tuesday April 13th 1830 by Lady Bentinck, wife of the then Governor General of India, Lord William Bentinck. Bishop Turner preached to a distinguished gathering, taking as his text Psalm 127:1, “Except the Lord build the house, their labour is but lost that built it.” Before the Church was completed Bishop Turner died and so it was opened for public Worship on November 20th 1831 by the Archdeacon Daniel Corrie. The ceremony for consecration was postponed till the arrival of the new Bishop, and was performed by Bishop Daniel Wilson (who built St. Paul’s Cathedral) on February 2nd 1833. The Church was dedicated to St. Thomas, the Patron Saint of India and the Free School was founded on the festival of that apostle of our Lord Jesus Christ. The building cost the School authorities a meager sum of Rs. 22,614/-, but it is probable that the total cost was more than half a lakh of rupees and the balance was raised by public subscriptions.
In the earlier days there seems to have been no provision for lighting the Church and the evening service was held at 4’o clock, before it grew dark. Candelabra were introduced later and from about 1860 gas was used until the introduction of electric lights in 1900.
It is only fair to add that, in spite of these disadvantages, the Church was well attended and its funds flourished. This was then fashionable quarters of the town. When Sir John Lawrence was the Governor General of India (1864 – 1869) he and his staff attended service here.
The building is typical of its period, a classic construction with a Gothic tower. It has a beautiful altar window and a marble base relief of our Lord and of St. Thomas. The Bryan Hall is named after the Rev. R. Bryan who after service in this Church for ten years became the first Bishop of the CIPBC Diocese of Barrackpore.
It was on 28th March, 2006 that the lower portion of the main wooden beam got detached and came crashing down. Fortunately there was no damage to either life or property. Under the guidance of the Bishop, funds were provided by CDTA (P) and through fund raising efforts of the Church authorities.

Events and Programmes:

Events conducted by the Church, summaries the spiritual, communal, and celebratory essence of each occasion.

Mother’s Sunday – Mother’s Sunday is observed with great reverence as the Church honours the love and sacrifices of mothers. A special service features heartfelt tributes by Sunday School children and the Women’s Fellowship members. On this day Mothers are gifted with tokens of appreciation and prayed over, recognizing their spiritual role in the family and community.

Grahamite Flower Service – This traditional service is celebrated by offering flowers as symbols of purity and thanksgiving, especially by the children of the Church.

Father’s Sunday – Fathers are celebrated and uplifted in prayer for their leadership and guidance within families and society. Children present short performances and messages, expressing their love and gratitude. The men’s fellowship are actively involved in the service, making it a meaningful time of reflection and honour.

Independence Day – A special thanksgiving service is held to mark India’s Independence Day. Patriotic songs and prayers are offered for the nation’s leaders and future. The Church hoists the national flag followed by a fellowship gathering, encouraging unity and responsible citizenship.

Teachers’ Sunday – This Sunday is dedicated to appreciating teachers for their valuable role in shaping young minds. Educators in the congregation are recognized with blessings and words of encouragement. Youth members lead the service, sharing reflections on the Christian responsibility of teaching and learning.

Patronal Day – Patronal Day of St. Thomas’ Church is celebrated with much grandeur and spiritual joy. A special thanksgiving Holy Communion service is conducted by the Bishop, followed by intercessory prayers and cultural presentations. The Patronal Day Service reaffirmes the Church’s commitment to its mission and heritage.

World Day of Prayer – World Day of Prayer brings together members of all age groups in unified prayer for global peace, justice, and women’s empowerment. The theme for the year is expressed through scripture, music, and testimonies from different walks of life.

Fellowship of Least Coin – The symbolic act of offering “least coins” is observed to show solidarity with women worldwide in prayer and action. A meditative service is held focusing on humility, sacrifice, and global sisterhood. Funds collected are dedicated to global mission projects.

Children’s Sunday – Children of the Church lead the entire service with songs, skits, and scripture readings, embodying Jesus’ teaching: “Let the little children come to me.” Their vibrant presence remind all of childlike faith. Each child receives a small gift and blessing from the Church.

Church Picnic – Church picnic is a day of fun, games, worship, and fellowship. Members of all ages participate in sports, singing, and shared meals, strengthening community bonds in a joyful and relaxed setting.

Republic Day Service – The Church observes Republic Day with a special prayer service for the nation, law-makers, and judiciary. Emphasis laid on Christian responsibility towards truth, justice, and nation-building. The youth choir sing patriotic hymns, and the national flag is respectfully hoisted.

Couple Sunday – This unique service celebrates love and commitment within Christian marriage. Couples renew their vows and received special blessings. Thoughtful messages on companionship and faith in marriage isshared, followed by lighthearted couple games and a fellowship tea.

World Day of Prayer – Observance of the World Day of Prayer is held in March, focusing on the prayer theme and liturgy prepared by Christian women of a selected nation. It highlights unity in diversity and enriched by multicultural prayers and reflections.

Lenten Retreat – Lenten Retreat is a time of spiritual renewal. Guided meditations, quiet reflection, and thematic sessions led by clergy, understanding of the cross and the call to discipleship during Lent.