Luz Church: A Beacon of Light in Chennai's History

In the tranquil Kennedy Street of Mylapore, Chennai, stands Luz Church, an enduring symbol of faith and history. Officially known as Our Lady of Light Church, this sacred site is reputed to be the oldest surviving church in the city. The locality, named Luz after the church, is well-known, yet many may not have visited this historical gem.

Dating back to 1516 CE, Luz Church was established by the Franciscan monk, Father Pedro de Atongia. The church's name, "Luz," meaning "light" in Portuguese, is rooted in a fascinating legend passed down through generations. The original church was merely a small prayer place. The current structure was built sometime in the 1550s or 1560s.

Luz Church faced significant challenges, including damage during the occupation by Golconda forces between 1662 and 1673. During Hyder Ali's occupation between 1780 and 1782, the East India Company Forces occupied the Luz Parish Residence for several years. Despite these troubled times, the church survived and stands today as a testimony to faith and resilience. The Church of Our Lady of Light, built in 1516, has been renovated and restored to its original form.

According to local lore, a group of lost Portuguese sailors was guided to this spot by a mysterious and divine light. As suddenly as it appeared, the light vanished, inspiring the church's name and legacy. This miraculous event is said to have occurred during the sailors' journey to India, and the site has been revered ever since. 

Luz Church is not only a spiritual haven but also an architectural gem. The structure boasts a large vaulted masonry roof that covers the main hall, creating a simple yet awe-inspiring space. A small wooden staircase leads to a tiny gallery above the entry, adding to the church's quaint charm. The front façade has a symmetrical design above the entry door, decorated with columns, decorative moldings, horizontal bands, and curved ornaments, all topped with a cross and finials.

Our Lady of Light is venerated as a powerful symbol of divine guidance and protection. The image on the central altar, beautifully crafted, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus. Mary's serene expression and the gentle, loving gaze upon her child convey a sense of peace and maternal care. The image is often adorned with intricate garments and a crown, emphasizing her role as the Queen of Heaven.

A unique feature of Luz Church is its bell tower, located to the south of the entry. This tower is accessed by an open staircase and is expressed on the façade as a large tapering wall. Inside, the church comes to life with a painted ceiling over the altar, marble plaques, statues, and a floor of old Italian tiles interspersed with grave stones of 1800s.

Despite being surrounded by modern residential developments, Luz Church has retained its historical and spiritual essence. It continues to attract a large congregation of Roman Catholics and serves as a community church. Known locally as "Katu Kovil," or "forest shrine," this name hints at the church's earlier environment, which was likely more wooded and secluded.

Luz Church's story is a testament to Chennai's rich cultural tapestry, blending Portuguese heritage with local traditions. It stands as a beacon of light, offering spiritual solace to its visitors and preserving a legacy of faith and resilience.

Happy travelling.