The mortal remains of St Alphonsa, the first woman of Indian origin to be canonised as a saint, are entombed next to this shrine. The church, also known as 'Anakallu Palli', attracts throngs of devotees every year with its peaceful atmosphere. The Franciscan Clarist Convent, where Saint Alphonsa lived her life and attained martyrdom, is located near Forane church.
The room where she lived and died is preserved intact as a tribute to her legacy. There is a museum adjacent to the shrine where one can get a glimpse of her belongings that have been preserved with care all through these years. A souvenir shop called St. Alphonsa Stall allows the visitors a chance to cherish the memories of their visit by collecting CDs, DVDs, statues, candles and edible offerings.
Bharananganam sees a surge of people when they gather at the church to celebrate the 'Feast of Saint Alphonsa'. It is conducted every year on 28th July, the death anniversary of Saint Alphonsa. Devotees stream to the church irrespective of caste and religion to seek the blessings of the saint whom they trust to alleviate their worries.
