Origins: The Journey of Faith
A UK healthcare recruitment drive brings skilled professionals and families from Kerala, India, to Bristol. They begin regular prayer gatherings, laying the foundation for a deeply faithful community.
The Early Years
📍 St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church
- Sept 2001: First Syro-Malabar Holy Qurbana celebrated by Rev. Fr. Joseph Narikuzhi.
- Oct 2004: Rev. Fr. George Valliamthadathil MSFS appointed Mission Director.
- Key Milestones: First full Holy Week (2005), Malayalam classes introduced, and the first Children’s Summer Camp (2006).
Relocation & Community Growth
📍 St. Joseph’s Church, Fishponds
- June 2008: Formation of the youth group, STYL (St. Thomas Youth League).
- Aug 2008: Launch of the women's group, CLASS (Catholic Ladies Association).
- Nov 2008: The community's first official website is launched.
A Period of Consolidation
👤 Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Joy Vayalil CST
- Oct 2009: Family Units established; Qurbana increases to 3 Sundays a month.
- 2011: Joyful celebration of the 10th Anniversary, featuring the first Bristol Bible Kalotsavam and the publication of the bilingual Holy Qurbana Book.
Strengthening the Mission
👤 Under the leadership of Fr. Paul Vettikattu CST
- Oct 2014: Official UK Charity registration of the STSMCC.
- July 2018: Elevated to Mission Status (covering Bristol, Bath, Trowbridge, and Weston-Super-Mare).
- Nov 2018: Land purchased at Siston Common for £725,000.
- 2020: Navigated the COVID-19 pandemic via virtual Qurbana, Zoom catechism, and launching the Horizon youth e-magazine.
Becoming a Parish & Finding a Permanent Home
👤 Under the leadership of Fr. Paul Olickal
- July 2022: STSMCC officially erected as a Parish by Bishop Mar Joseph Srampickal.
- A New Home: Unanimously decided to purchase Edengrove Church for £185,000, establishing a permanent place of worship.
A New Era of Faith
👤 Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Christo Neriaparambil
Following the dedication of Fr. Paul Olickal and the opening of the Marian Garden (Sept 2025), the parish welcomed its new Shepherd, Fr. Christo, in February 2026. Today, we stand as one of the largest parishes in the Eparchy of Great Britain, supporting 19 family units in Bristol and 5 in Bath.