The year AD 345 has been of profound historical significance for the kerala church, owing to the advent of Thomas of Cana, a Syrian merchant and the 72 families with him heralded the renewal of the church. Among the various churches established imbibing the renewed sprit, ST Thomas Church Ranni known as “Ranni Valiyapalli” was established in 1742 by a group of enlightened knanaya christians who ha
d been active members of St. Marys Church Kallissery and had trade relations with Ranni.
“Kottayil Karthas”, who were the vassels of Pandalam Raja as well as the rulers of Ranni, Invited Syrian Christians who had trade relations with ranni to be establish a church to fulfill their spiritual needs. Ever since the church act as a refuge and inspiration to all who are associated with it. Through the devoted services of of various priests. The Church Established in 1742 was reconstructed in 1901 and 2001 when the church was reconstructed and consecrated in 1901; its spiritual leadership was done by St. Gregorious of Parumala, The Church is fortunate to have been blessed with the visit of H.H Moran Mor Ignetius Peter 2nd , H.H Elias 3rd , H.H Yakub 3rd and H.H Zacha 1st who are the successors of St. Peter on the throne Antioc and the whole of East. One of the most famous missionaries of the era Dr. Claudious Buchanan visited the church in 1810. He Was gifted one of the invaluable possessions of the church, a manuscript of Syriac Bible inscribed on hide, which is presently kept in the Cambridge Museum London. The church has two stone crosses situated at the east and west sides of the church. the stone cross facing the river Pamba (East) has anecdotes and myths associated with its establishment in the 16th c. the base part of the cross has carvings of flora and fauna and vattaluttu inscriptions (Vattazuthu) on the left side. The stone steps that leades to the river from church yard have also carved inscriptions on it. Antiques such as kasa, pilasa, arulika, candle stand, different types of crosses maid of gold and sliver have been kept in the church. Abraham Mar Clemis who led the knanaya community for 52 years belongs to this church. The tomb eructed in front of the church adds beauty to the church. Today there are more than 2000 families in this church. As for convenience 7 small churches or Kurissupallies were built and administrated under this church. Thomas College Ranni, M.S TTC, M.S.H.S.S, ST Thomas HSS, St Thomas UPS, Mor Cliems public school are the prestigious educational instructions of the church. Regardless of cast and creed the church has always be a source of consolation for all the inhabitants of Ranni
