Mor Ignatius Dayara
Hightlight
-
Car parking
-
Non smoking
Mor Ignatius Dayara or Manjanikkara Dayara, located in the serene town of Manjanikkara in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, holds a significant place in history as a Syriac Orthodox Church monastery. This revered site was established on December 15, 1925, under the guidance of Mor Yulios Elias Qoro, the Patriarchal delegate to the Malankara Church. Serving as the seat of the Patriarchal Delegate to Malankara and the metropolitan of the Simhasana churches, both directly administered by the Patriarchate, this monastery carries profound spiritual importance.
The sacred grounds of the Dayara Church hold the mortal remains of notable figures, including Patriarch Ignatius Elias III, who was laid to rest here on February 13, 1932. It is noteworthy that he is the only Patriarch of Antioch to find his eternal resting place in Malankara. The church also houses the remains of Mor Yulius Elias Qoro and Mor Yulius Yacoub, former Patriarchal delegates to Malankara, adding to its historical significance.
Beyond its role as a final resting place, the Mor Ignatios Dayro church once served as a seminary school for the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church. This institution played a crucial role in fostering the study of the teachings of the holy fathers among seminarians. Distinguished scholars like Father V. C. Samuel and Curien Kaniamparambil, known for translating Peshitta into Malayalam, have been associated with this church, enriching its heritage.
Every year, on February 13, the tomb of Patriarch Ignatius Elias III draws thousands of pilgrims from around the world, who gather at the Dayara Church to commemorate the annual feast day. This grand celebration is a testament to the enduring spiritual significance of this pilgrimage destination.