PARISH HISTORY
Hongasandra Ward has emerged as a vibrant part of the
Bommanahalli parish, reflecting the community's dedication to the Virgin Mary.
Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. John Marius Manickanamparambil CMI,, the vicar
of Bommanahalli parish, the ward began its journey. The pioneering spirit of
Hongasandra was exemplified by its first councillors: Mr. T.J. Thomas, followed
by Mr. K.A. Joseph, K.C. Thankachan, and K.J. Thomas, who laid the foundation
for a united and thriving community.
On March 4, 2001, through the dedicated efforts of Mr. K.P.
Chakkappan, the Holy Mass was celebrated at the Nursery School in Assisi
Bhavan. The esteemed Dharmaram Rector Rev. Fr. Sebastian Poonoly, along with
Bommanahalli Vicar Rev. Fr. Thomas Kollamparampil CMI and Rev. Fr. Francis
Thonippara CMI officiated at this event. This pivotal moment marked the
beginning of spiritual growth in the community, as Thonipparayachan took on the
role of Priest-in-Charge of Hongasandra Ward, ensuring that Holy Communion was
offered every Sunday and on special occasions. In a historic meeting on March
18, the ward was named Thirukkudumba Ward, with Mr. S. Thomas, P.A. Lukose, and
Mrs. Omana Kurian chosen as Ward Councilors and Animators, paving the way for a
vibrant community united in faith and purpose.
The faith community experienced remarkable growth, deeply
anchored in God's providence. In a pivotal meeting on July 1, 2001, the
decision was made to purchase a plot of land. On August 30, the vision came to
fruition with the acquisition of the land where our church stands today,
purchased from Mr. Munivenkita O.P for Rs. 8,53,000.
On July 20, the vision for the church's construction was
embraced by the then-Bangalore Archbishop, Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius Paul Pinto.
Following this momentous decision, the foundation stone was laid on August 15
by Dharmaram Rector Rev Fr. James Narithookil, with Rev. Fr. John Maamlam
blessing the keystone during the ceremony. In a remarkable display of
dedication and unity, the church was completed in just six months and was
consecrated on February 16, 2002, by the Bishop of Manthavady Diocese, Rev.
Emmanuel Pothanamuzhi.
The Holy Family Trust was inaugurated on September 22, 2002,
marking the beginning of an inspiring journey that commenced with 10 dedicated
members. Over the years, this fellowship grew significantly, and after an
expansion in 2010, it blossomed to 102 members. On August 14, 2004, the sacred
building that now hosts our religious studies classes was established on the
eastern side of the temple. A significant milestone was achieved when 40% of
the land was purchased from the current M.L.A. Mr. Satheesh Reddy, fulfilling a
cherished vision of the Holy Family Worship Group. The groundwork for elevating
this temple to parish status was laid with the signing of the notification by Most
Rev. Dr. Ignatius Paul Pinto on December 30.
Rev. Fr. Francis Thonippara CMI became the first vicar,
inspiring the community with his three years of devoted service. On March 25,
2064, the general assembly gathered to honor Hon. Thonipparayachan with a
heartfelt farewell and to welcome Rev. Fr Cherian Thunduparambil,CMI. This
significant day also marked the release of the first parish directory by Rev.
Fr. John Marius CMI.
The journey of the parish hall began on May 16, 2005,
evolving into a remarkable space completed in just five months. It was blessed
on October 31, 2004, by Most Rev. Bernard Moras, Archbishop Emeritus of
Bangalore, and stands dedicated to the late Mar Emmanuel Pothanamuzhy CMI.
Under the guidance of the new pastor, the parish community deepened its
commitment to charity, launching various relief funds. A striking example of
the collective spirit was the Chavara Gram Project held from May 1 to 3, 2005,
flourishing through the efforts of promoter Mr. K.T. Francis, fellow
parishioners, and supporters beyond the parish. Their cooperation enabled the
acquisition of not only 400 feet of land adjacent to the church but also 200
feet in the Mother Teresa ward and 250 feet at the Anekal project site.
The miraculous growth of the Hongasandra Parish attracted
many Syro-Malabar families, fostering the establishment of new wards.
Originally divided into three zones - Hongasandra Zone, Canara Bank Zone, and 14th
Main Zone - the church evolved into the cherished Alphonsa Ward, Chavara Ward,
and Mariam Thresia Ward. In April 2008, the Mariam Thresia Ward was divided,
giving rise to a new ward named after Mother Theresa, while the Chavara Ward's
division led to the formation of St. Thomas Ward. By June 2005, our church had
begun to flourish with services, marking a new chapter in its inspiring journey.