United Kingdom Knanaya Catholic Association

Coventry &

Warwickshire Knanaya

The Coventry & Warwickshire Knanaya Catholic Unit is a vibrant and welcoming community committed to preserving the cultural, religious, and social heritage of the Knanaya people. Located in the heart of Coventry and Warwickshire, our unit serves as a cornerstone for members to come together in faith, unity, and shared traditions.

Our Mission

Our mission is to nurture the Knanaya Catholic community in Coventry and Warwickshire by offering a platform for cultural, religious, and social engagement. We strive to uphold the unique traditions and values of the Knanaya heritage, ensuring they are cherished and celebrated by future generations.

Cultural Heritage

The essence of our community lies in safeguarding the rich cultural legacy of the Knanaya people. Through vibrant cultural programs, language classes, and heritage workshops, we aim to instill a deep sense of pride and identity in our younger generations. These initiatives ensure that our distinctive customs and traditions remain alive and relevant.

Spiritual Enrichment

Faith is at the heart of our unit. We provide avenues for spiritual growth through regular worship, prayer sessions, and religious education. With activities such as Holy Mass, prayer gatherings, and seminars, we foster a strong connection to our Catholic faith, enabling members to deepen their spiritual journey.

Community Service

Our mission extends beyond our own community, as we are dedicated to positively impacting the wider society in Coventry and Warwickshire. Through outreach programs and charitable initiatives, we embody the values of kindness, service, and compassion, contributing meaningfully to the broader community

Events and Gatherings

Throughout the year, we host a variety of cultural and religious events that bring our members closer together. From traditional festivals and feasts to social gatherings and performances, these events create cherished memories and strengthen the bonds within our community.

Be a Part of Us

Whether you are a member of the Knanaya community or someone eager to explore our rich heritage and faith, we warmly invite you to join the Coventry & Warwickshire Knanaya Catholic Unit. Together, we can celebrate our traditions, strengthen our faith, and build a vibrant community for generations to come.

Knai Thoma

Thomas of

Knai Thoma, a rich international merchant from Cana, brought a colony of 400 Syrian Christians consisting of 72 families belonging to 7 clans with instructions from the Patriarch of Antioch, Mor Yusthedius, to the Malabar coast of India. The group included men, women, children, priests, deacons and their bishop Mor Joseph of Urfa (Uraha/Edessa). The names of the seven clans were: Bagi, Belkuth, Hadai, Kujalig, Koja, Mugmuth, and Thegmuth. The legend is that Mor Joseph had a startling dream (vision) in which he saw the plight of the Christian church in Malabar established by St. Thomas, the Apostle, in the 1st Century. Mor Joseph and Knai Thoma landed in Kodungalloor (Crangannoore) in 345 AD. Knai Thoma and his group sailed in three ships. The leading ship called "Babylonia" had three masts. The main mast flew King David's flag, the second mast flew the Roman flag with the cross, and the third flew King Abgar of Edessa's flag.

Knai Thoma and his people were heartily welcomed by Cheraman Perumal, the Emperor. Cheraman Perumal sent his brother, Ramavarma, and his minister, Vettathu Mannan, to receive Knai Thoma and his people. Knai Thoma and his people were given permission to settle down in Kodungalloor and to do business. Later Cheraman Perumal bestowed Knai Thoma and his people with 72 princely privileges and there by elevated them over 17 castes. This proclamation was made on a Saturday in March (Kumbham 29), 345 and it was recorded on copper plates given to Knai Thoma (Knai Thomman Cheppedu). Knai Thoma and his people built a town in Kodungalloor with a church and 72 houses. The natives called it "Mahadevar Pattanam" meaning "town of superiors". Knai Thoma and his people converted many natives to Christianity and built many churches. Thus the arrival of Knai Thoma and his people (Knananites) reestablished the church founded by St. Thomas, the Apostle. For more pictures "Click the link below and like our page Knanaya.