“Valan” once described this area. That Marathi term means turn or curve. Today we stand before Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem. It is more than just a religious building. It is a landmark with a rich history.
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, began as a small chapel. Fr. Joseph Maria Braz de Souza built it around 1880. He paid for it himself. At the time, Orlem was a small hamlet. Only about 12 families lived here. Fr. D’Souza dedicated his chapel to Our Lady of Lourdes.
In 1882, Bishop Meurin made the chapel an official part of the Bombay Apostolate. It was then connected to Our Lady of Assumption Church in Kandivli. Fr. D’Souza served as chaplain. In 1908, Pope Pius X honored Fr. D’Souza. He became a CAMARIERE SEGREDO EXTRA URBEM. Fr. D’Souza died in 1912. He was buried in the chapel he built.
Fr. Justin D’Souza, his nephew, succeeded him. He was appointed Chaplain at Orlem. Fr. Justin continued Fr. D’Souza’s work. He also built the first school. This uplifted Orlem’s Christian community. In 1916, Orlem became a separate parish. Fr. Justin extended the church. Mrs. Mary Magdalene D’Souza funded the choir’s elevation. Fr. Justin also donated his lands. This land now supports the Cardinal Gracias Colony. It provides welfare for Orlem.
Other priests contributed to Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem. Fr. Herman Mendes, Fr. Celestine Fonseca and Fr. Walter D’Souza served here. Msgr. Staney Pereira, Fr. Peter C. Gomes and Fr. Frank Noronha also led. Fr. Noronha began building the new school in 1959.
In 1976, Fr. Octavian Dias extended the school further. He also added a parochial house and a new church. Parishioners and friends donated generously. Mr. Raymond H. D’Lima chaired the project. He helped make the new church a reality.
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, has beautified Malad station. A century ago, Joseph Braz D’Souza lobbied for a railway station. He convinced the congregation to support it. The parish adopted the station. Volunteers created murals showing social awareness and local history.
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, marked its 100th year with social activities. They focused on fellowship, foundation and service. The church hosted events for youth to showcase their talents.
Christmas celebrations at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, attract thousands. The church also introduced “The Glow.” This program opens the church to everyone. It offers blessings through singing and prayers. Services are held in Tamil and English. People of all faiths are welcome.
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, stands as a testament to faith and community. Its history reflects the dedication of its leaders and the spirit of its people. It started small but grew into a significant landmark. It continues to nurture faith and serve the community.