Church doors open for worshippers after 32 years

Aluva (Ker), Jan 23 (PTI) After a gap of 32 years, the
doors of the disputed Thrikkunnath St Mary's church near here
were thrown open for worshippers this morning.
The church had remained closed for the past three
decades due to ownership dispute between the Orthodox and
Jacobite factions of the Malankara church.
The Kerala High Court had permitted opening of the
church on Saturday and Sunday for offering worship and
celebrating the 'remembrance day' of departed Bishops laid to
rest there.
The orthodox faction worshippers began thronging the
church from 7 AM IST Saturday morning and have been allowed
time till 11 AM. The Jacobite faction worshippers have been
given time from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Security has been tightened near the church to prevent
any untoward incident.
Following the High Court order, the church was opened
late last night by Metropolitan Yuhanon Mar Policarpose of the
Orthodox church under the supervision of Ernakulam District
Collector M Beena and senior police officials for cleaning up.
Orthodox church catholicos designate Poulose Mar
Milithios was also present. PTI