History:

is the famous pilgrimage center dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is located in the suburb of Mylapore in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Health. The shrine has its mention in the Franciscan Annals (1372). It is believed that Our Lady of Health appeared as a vision to a shepherd who built a chapel to commemorate her apparition. The shrine has been visited by many saintly figures, kings and devotees all over the centuries. To commemorate her apparition, a beautiful Basilica was built in the 16th century and stands tall against the skyline of Chennai. Annai Velankanni Church, Chennai is known for its miraculous healings and is considered to be one of the premier pilgrimage sites for thousands of devotees who come here to seek spiritual solace and healing. The annual Velankanni Festival is celebrated every year from the 10th of August to 5th September. It is one of the best temple in TamilNadu which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Annai Velankanni Church is a popular Catholic Shrine situated Chennai. 2. It is also known as 'Little Rome' of the East as it enshrines a copy of the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Good Health, of Velankanni in Tamil Nadu. 3. The Church was built in the year 1956, in honour of the Virgin Mary widely believed to have performed three miracles in the locality. 4. The annual Feast of Our Lady of Good Health is celebrated from September 8-19 every year in the church and it is attended by thousands of devotees, irrespective of religion. 5. It is famous for its healing powers and many miracles are said to have taken place here. The thousands of faithful who visit make donations in gratitude and thanksgiving to the saint. 6. The Shrine has also become a popular pilgrimage site for those looking for spiritual solace and peace. It is regularly visited by famous politicians and celebrities of Tamil Nadu. 7. Apart from the Velankanni Shrine, the complex also consists of a Shrine of Lord Siva, a Chapel of St. Ignatius and a hostel for the pilgrims. 8. The Church also houses the relics of Pope John Paul II, who visited the place during the Jubilee Year in 2000. 9. The 30ft tall statue of Our Lady of Health Vailankanni was installed in the Shrine in 1996. 10. There are also shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan and St. Joseph located within the complex. Here are some facts about the TamilNadu temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in TamilNadu

Worship Method:

Annai Velankanni Church in Chennai holds two services per day. The first service starts at 6:00 a.m. and the second service begins at 8:00 a.m. During both services, the priest chants hymns and verses from the Bible in Tamil, and the congregation responds with prayers. Throughout the service, candles are lit in the church as a sign of reverence for the faithful. At the end of the service, the priest leads the congregation in singing a prayer to the Virgin Mary, which is known as 'Namaskara Ragam'. After the service is concluded, there is a time for touching the feet of the Virgin Mary statue, and for making wishes for healing and hope. On special occasions, such as festivals and holidays, the church holds mass services with special processionals around the church. This most visited temple in TamilNadu

Opening Timing:

Annai Velankanni Church is open all days from 6 AM - 8 PM. top temples in TamilNadu

How to reach:

The Annai Velankanni Church is located in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The closest airport to the church is the Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or cab to reach the church. If you are travelling by train, the closest railway station is the Chennai Egmore Railway Station which is around 9 km away. Buses and auto-rickshaws are also easily available to get to the church. famous temples in TamilNadu