St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India

Did you ever hear of a church starting in one city and finding its true home in another? St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India, right here in Franklin Square, has just such a story. It began its journey in Garden City in October 1990. Reverend Fr. P.S. Samuel Corepiscopa led the initial congregation. Later, in April 1992, Rev. Fr. Thomas Paul, also known as Johnson Achen, took over as Vicar, appointed by H.G. Mathews Mar Barnabas. Initially, services were held in a chapel generously provided by the Cathedral of Incarnation Episcopal Church. This act of Christian brotherhood allowed the nascent St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India to grow. In 2001, the congregation finally found its permanent location in Franklin Square. The church began with just 12 families. Now, it embraces over 80 families and more than 300 members. St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India welcomes everyone. Even non-members frequently join Sunday services. The church is open daily, offering evening prayer from 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm, except for Saturdays when it’s from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Wednesdays and Fridays are particularly popular. Sunday morning prayer starts at 8:00 am, followed by Holy Qurbana at 9:00 am. Sunday school runs from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm every Sunday, September through June. St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India is part of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as the Indian Orthodox Church. This church traces its lineage back to St. Thomas the Apostle in AD 52. The church follows the ancient West Syrian Liturgical Rite and is in communion with other Oriental Orthodox Churches. This includes the Antiochene, Coptic, Armenian, Eritrean, and Ethiopian Orthodox Churches. St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India maintains strong ecumenical relationships with Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Churches as well. So, next time you’re in Franklin Square, remember St. Baselios Orthodox Church of India’s story of faith, perseverance, and community. It’s a testament to the power of shared belief and the welcoming spirit of this vibrant congregation.