Ulhasnagar

Opp. Gulraj Tower, Mumbai

Maharashtra – 421 003

Rev. Fr. John Mankulam   started celebrating Holy Qurbana in the Ordinance Factory quarters of late Mr. V. Joseph in the year 1982 for the eight families residing at Ambernath and nearby areas. In February, 1991, Rev. Fr. Ignatius Thangalathil OIC took initiative to purchase land for constructing a church in Ulhasnagar.  On April 17^th 1991, the foundation stone was laid for the Church construction and the church was blessed by Arch Bishop Benedict Mar Gregorios on Sept 29, 1991 for the sixty families.  St. Joseph Bethany Convent School also was started adjacent to the Church during the same period. On Nov 1st 1992, St. Josephs parish at Ulhasnagar was established and Fr. James Mammoottil was the first vicar. The Church was reconstructed during the tenure of Rev. Fr. Mathai Iranathara and Rev. Fr. Jacob Oravackal. On Oct 1st and 2^nd of 2002, the reconstructed church was blessed by Late Major Arch Bishop Cyril Mar Baselios and His Excellency, Isaac Mar Cleemis was present. This was the first Malankara Catholic Church in the Mumbai Region. The strength of the community has grown to 110 families from the initial 60 families.