Christ the King Knanaya Catholic Church

In 1993, a small group of Knanaya Catholic families in the tri-state area embarked on a new mission. Christ the King Knanaya Catholic Church, as we know it today, didn’t exist yet. These families, scattered across New York and New Jersey, yearned to preserve their unique traditions. They attended local Latin churches but celebrated Knanaya customs during Christmas and Easter in their homes. Their first mission director, Fr. Joseph Sauriamakil, traveled extensively to serve these dispersed families. He celebrated mass in Queens, Westchester, Rockland, and New Jersey once a month. The New Jersey mission began humbly in a church in Fort Lee. Masses were held on the third Sunday of every month. The mission moved several times, from Parsippany to Linden, then Hillside, Roselle Park, and finally Iselin. Over the years, different priests led the mission, including Fr. Michael Nedumthuruthil, Fr. Thomas Animootil, Fr. James Ponganayil, and Fr. Renny Kattel. Eventually, Knanaya families from Staten Island also joined the New Jersey mission. A significant turning point came in 2017 under Fr. Kattel’s leadership. A new executive committee was formed. Josekunju Chamakalayil and Lumon Manthuruthil served as trustees. Peter Manthuruthil managed the finances as treasurer. The committee embarked on a search for a permanent home for the mission. They found the Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Carteret, New Jersey. The entire parish voted to purchase the church. Fundraising efforts, led by Shaji Vemmelil with support from Tom Kadiampallil, began in earnest. The entire NJ mission contributed. A raffle program and even an Elakka Mala auction were held. Donations poured in from other Knanaya communities in Chicago, Florida, and Arizona. In July 2018, the purchase was finalized. The church was renamed Christ the King Knanaya Catholic Church of New Jersey. On September 15, 2018, a grand inauguration and blessing ceremony took place. Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakat, Bishop Jacob Angadiath, and Bishop Joy Alappatt officiated the ceremony. Forty priests, numerous nuns, and a large gathering of Knanaya people from the tri-state area attended. Fr. Renny Kattel became the first pastor. Christ the King Knanaya Catholic Church now thrives under the leadership of Fr. Bins Chethalil. He was appointed pastor two years ago. The church has become a vibrant center for the community. It offers activities for all ages, religious education, social gatherings, and more. It stands as a testament to the perseverance and faith of the Knanaya community in New Jersey.