Picture the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer. His outstretched arms embrace you as you stand before the Church of Our Lady of Graces. This isn’t Rio de Janeiro. This is Delhi. Specifically West Delhi near the Outer Ring Road.
The Church of Our Lady of Graces is more than just a place of worship. It’s a landmark a beacon for commuters zipping along the flyover between Vikaspuri and Meera Bagh. It’s a testament to the Christian community that blossomed here.
Initially Vikaspuri Catholics attended St Paul’s Church. However as the Catholic population in Vikaspuri grew a need arose for their own parish. This happened in 1985. The first masses were held in a private home. Imagine the intimate gatherings the shared faith amidst humble surroundings.
Father Augustine Kuriapally became the first parish priest. He started holding multiple masses. One was in P M Apartments another in Nightingale Apartments. He was a busy man. The parish was growing. He also started the Vincent de Paul Society a youth group and a choir.
Then in March 1986 the Archdiocese of Delhi secured land. The task of clearing the land was daunting. Thirty families lived in small huts on the land. The families worked nearby. They were reluctant to move. The parish priest and his team with the help of the local police relocated these families. They arranged for trucks. They even slept on the cleared land to prevent the families from returning.
The construction was a community effort. Parishioners donated money. Other parishes helped too. A generous benefactor provided significant funding. The foundation stone was laid on April 22 1990 by Archbishop Angelo Fernandez.
Three years later on February 21 1993 the Church of Our Lady of Graces opened its doors. Archbishop Alan de Lastic blessed it. It’s a beautiful building a blend of faith and architectural design. It sits nicely within Sir Edwin Lutyens city plan. It’s a place of quiet prayer generous giving and vibrant community.
Today the Church of Our Lady of Graces continues its mission. It serves a large and diverse congregation a testament to its enduring spirit. Its story reminds us of faith resilience and the power of community. It’s a story worth remembering. A story that continues to unfold.