Welcome to St. Mary's Knanaya Church Pennsylvania, Inc.

A Place of Hope, Healing, and Worship. Discover a vibrant community dedicated to spiritual growth and service.

About Us

The Knanaya community traces its origins to 345 A.D. when Knai Thoma, a wealthy merchant from Edessa (modern-day Urfa), led 72 Jewish-Christian families, along with clergy and Bishop Mor Joseph of Uraha, to the Malabar Coast of India. Welcomed by Cheraman Perumal, the ruler of Kerala, they settled in Kodungalloor, building a vibrant community with a church and 72 houses. Distinct in their endogamous tradition and deep-rooted Semitic heritage, the Knanaya maintained their identity alongside the native St. Thomas Christians. Over centuries, the community preserved its customs, faith, and autonomy, culminating in the establishment of the Knanaya Diocese in 1910. Today, this global community proudly upholds its rich spiritual and cultural legacy.

Service Times

• Sunday Worship: 9:00 AM