St. George Forane Church, also known as Aruvithura Church, is a popular pilgrim centre located on the banks of the Meenachil River in Aruvithura, Erattupetta. It is believed that this Syro-Malabar Catholic church was established in AD 151 and that makes it one of the two oldest churches in the Pala Diocese. The statue of St. George, which was brought to Aruvithura in the 13th century by a group of Christians from Nilackal who were escaping the wrath of their enemies, is still preserved here in its original form and is brought forward during the festival season for public veneration.
The Gothic style design is one of the many factors that make Aruvithura church distinctive. The structure underwent several renovations throughout the years and the present church was completed in 1951. Following the Oriental Liturgical tradition, the church was built facing to the west towards Jerusalem. The cruciform building is 170 feet long and 50 feet broad with a 'Manimalika' (bell tower) in the front that rises to 120 feet. The statue of Christ on top of the church stands tall at 15 feet showering blessings on all those who come here.
The church is quite famous for its Friday Mass. St. George is so beloved among the natives and his followers that he is affectionately called 'Vallyachan' (Grand Papa or Grand Uncle). The annual festival of the church, the Festival of St. George of Aruvithura, is celebrated from April 23- 24 every year and is an occasion of thanksgiving for all the blessings that St. George has showered upon the faithful.
