St. John’s Church turns 200

It is the oldest church in the capital

HYDERABAD, ANDHRA PRADESH, 08-02-2013: St John the Baptist Church, Secunderabad. We are a congregation of the Church of South India, Medak Diocese. Church is the oldest church in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The Church was consecrated and dedicated in 1813 and initially served the spiritual needs of the British Forces stationed at Lancer’s line, Secunderabad. Presently, we are serving a large cosmopolitan congregation of Anglicans in the city.. PHOTO: By Arrangement

The renowned landmark of Secunderabd, St. John’s Church is celebrating its 200 years, a feat that has made it the oldest church in the capital. The thanksgiving celebrations and special service programme, to mark the occasion, themed ‘Crossing the Centuries with Christ’, is being conducted from 5.30 p.m. on Saturday.

Unveiling of the logo for the bicentennial celebrations will also be taken up during the special service. Deputy Moderator of the Church of South India and Moderator’s Commissary, Medak Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. G. Dyvasirvadam, will be the chief guest.

The structure in cruciform of Tuscan architecture at St. John’s Church was built in 1813. The church is home to a rare Pipe Organ and a stained glass depicting John The Baptist, located above the altar.

Tiled with aesthetically patterned Minton tiles, the church was awarded the Heritage Award in 1998 by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage.