“What if I told you this church helped give Chennai its name?” That’s the intriguing story of St. Lazarus Church. Standing here, you’re looking at a piece of Chennai’s oldest Christian history.
St. Lazarus Church is more than 400 years old. The Portuguese constructed it in 1582. This was during their time in the colony of Sao Tome de Meliapore now known as Mylapore. The church stood in front of Leith Castle and their port.
Father Ribeiro built the original church. Later, in 1637, a European named Manuel Madra extended and renovated it. Then, in 1928, Father A. M. Texeira laid the foundation for a new church. This project finished in 1954.
Originally, the parish was known as Madre-de-Deus meaning Mother of God in Portuguese. This area was entrusted to Jesuit Fathers for a Retreat House. St. Lazarus Church then became the Parish Church. The Portuguese name Madre-de-Deus evolved. Over time it gave the city its name Madras. On June 1, 1957, St. Lazarus Church was officially established as a parish. The statue of Our Lady of Guidance was installed here. It was moved from the Madre-de-Deus Church.
For years, St. Lazarus Church played a vital role in the community. Lepers received care and treatment in the nearby streets. The church offered solace and support to those in need.
Over the centuries St. Lazarus Church has undergone several transformations. It was rebuilt in 1637 by the Madeiros family. Again, in 1952 it was renovated. After the renovation, the church was renamed Our Lady of Guidance.
Today, St. Lazarus Church is known as Our Lady of Guidance Church. It remains an active parish in the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore. You can attend Tamil Mass. It’s held at 6:00 am 7:30 am and 5:15 pm on Sundays. There is also an English Mass at 9:00 am.
Though the original structure has seen changes and renovations the spirit of St. Lazarus Church endures. It stands as a testament to faith, community and the rich history that shaped Chennai. Take a moment to reflect on the stories held within these walls a legacy that continues to inspire.