Our Origins: The Journey of Faith

Throughout the history of the faithful, we witness how God leads His chosen people through migration, guiding their paths in extraordinary and mysterious ways. Our own journey to the United Kingdom reflects God’s providence and purpose. Like the great migrations of the past, our community’s story stands as a testimony to the Lord’s faithful guidance.

In the early 2000s, a significant recruitment drive in the UK healthcare sector led to an influx of skilled professionals from across the globe, particularly from Kerala, India. The city of Bristol became home to many healthcare workers. A unique feature of these early years was that the community gathered under the unified banner of Malayalee Christians. In a remarkable display of ecumenical unity, initial gatherings brought together faithful from diverse backgrounds across Kerala, including Knanaya Catholics, Knanaya Jacobites, Jacobites, Orthodox, Mar Thoma, and other Christian denominations.

The Early Years at St. Nicholas of Tolentino (2001–2006)

In September 2001, the first Syro-Malabar Holy Qurbana in Bristol was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Joseph Narikuzhi at St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church, marking the official formation of the St. Thomas Catholic Community. We remain eternally grateful to Rev. Fr. Richard McKay, parish priest of St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church, who graciously gave us the opportunity to use his church as our very first place of worship. We also express our gratitude to Rev. Canon Gregory Grant and Rev. Canon Thomas Finnegan for their ongoing support.

In October 2004, Rev. Fr. George Valliamthadathil MSFS was appointed as Director of the Syro-Malabar Mission under Clifton Diocese. Key initiatives introduced during this time included:

• March 2005: Full Holy Week observances in Syro-Malabar rite.
• April 2005: Malayalam classes introduced into catechism curriculum.
• July 2005: First celebration of St. Thomas Day (Dukhrana).
• August 2006: First Children’s Summer Camp.

Relocation and Pastoral Care (2006–2009)

In October 2006, the community relocated to St. Joseph’s Church in Fishponds. During this phase, our community’s spiritual needs were met by visiting Syro-Malabar priests including Rev. Fr. George Valliamthadam, Rev. Fr. Sunny Paul MSFS, Rev. Fr. Anil Paul SVD, Rev. Fr. John Kudiyirippil MST, Rev. Fr. Thomas Parayadyil MST, Rev. Fr. Roji Narithookkil, Rev. Fr. George Cheeramkuzhy, Rev. Fr. C. D. Sebastian, Rev. Fr. Jimmy Pulikkakunnel MCBS, Rev. Fr. Joy Vayalil, Rev. Fr. Tony Pazhayakalam CST, Rev. Fr. Joby CST, Rev. Fr. Cyril, Rev. Fr. Jiji Alakkalam, Rev. Fr. Jibin Paradiyil, and Rev. Fr. Mathew Palarakkarottu, with formative contributions.

• June 2008: Formation of youth group STYL (St. Thomas Youth League).
• August 2008: Launch of women's group CLASS (Catholic Ladies Association).
• November 2008: Official website inauguration by Rev. Fr. Eric Foxwell.

A Period of Consolidation (2009–2012)

In September 2009, Rev. Fr. Joy Vayalil CST became resident priest. Under his leadership, Family Units were established (October 2009), Qurbana expanded to three Sundays a month, and in 2011, the 10th anniversary was celebrated with the launch of Bristol Bible Kalotsavam.

Strengthening the Mission (2012–2021)

Fr. Paul Vettikattu CST took charge in October 2012. Key milestones included Charity Registration (October 2014), elevation to Mission status (July 2018), and acquisition of Bridge House Farm at Siston Common for £725,000 (November 2018). During COVID-19, spiritual care continued via YouTube and Zoom.

Becoming a Parish & Permanent Home (2021–2025)

In July 2022, during the Dukhrana celebrations under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Paul Vettikattu CST, STSMCC was officially erected as a parish by Mar Joseph Srampickal. Following the transfer of Fr. Paul Vettikattu to Bridgwater and a brief tenure by Fr. Binoy Mandapathil CRM (September–November 2023), Fr. Paul Olickal (November 2023) was appointed as the first official Vicar. Under Fr. Paul Olickal's leadership, the parish unanimously acquired Eden Grove Church for £185,000 as a permanent place of worship. The Marian Garden was developed in 2025.

A New Era of Faith (2026–Present)

Following Fr. Paul Olickal's return to Kalyan diocese (February 2026), the parish welcomed Rev. Fr. Dr. Christo Neriamparampil as Vicar on February 4, 2026. Today, STSMCC stands as one of the largest parishes in the Eparchy of Great Britain, with 19 family units in Bristol and 5 in Bath.