A Digital Visit to the Chapel at RCT!

Dear Viewers,

As you enter the campus of Ruhalya College of Theology, it is not difficult to understand that its chapel is the axis upon which the daily life and activities of this “abode the Holy Spirit” revolves.



At least that is the message conveyed by its unique architecture and central position in the complex of buildings that constitute RCT.



The entire structure of the chapel is heaven-oriented. One would be mesmerized by its symmetry. The roof of the chapel appears to be a symphony of many pyramids of varying sizes.






The first thing that draws the attention of the beholder as he crosses the portals of the chapel is the hovering white dove above, symbolizing the Ruha (the Holy Spirit).




Once you are inside this house of prayer, you will surely be disposed to spend a few moments in silent prayer in the presence of the Lord.



Our disposition to prayer and meditation is enhanced by the beautiful stained glass windows depicting the themes of the various liturgical seasons, biblical scenes and Indian saints.


Windows depicting the liturgical seasons of Annunciation, Epiphany and Lent


Windows depicting the liturgical seasons of Resurrection, Apostles and Kaitha


Two windows depicting the liturgical seasons of Elijah-Cross-Moses and Dedication of the Church, followed by a window on the Eucharist


Windows depicting Eucharistic themes: the first one adorns the Hykla and the other two adorn the Eucharistic chapel


A window depicting the multiplication of bread (a Eucharistic theme), adorning the Eucharistic chapel and two windows depicting Blessed Teresa of Culcutta and Blessed Kriakose Chavara, both adorning the Baptistery (Beth Mamodisa)


A window depicting St Alphonsa, adorning Baptistery, and two windows depicting Blessed Kunjachan and Mariam Thresia, adorning the sacristy.


Eucharistic chapel of this house of prayer is quite conducive to silent prayer and meditation. A large size etched depiction of the scene of Calvary is not only beautiful but also prayerful.


The small altar in this eucharistic chapel is also marked by the eucharistic motif: it is sculpted in red stone, depicting the multiplication of five loaves and two fish.


The scene of Jesus’ baptism at Jordan overlooks the Baptistery, which again is a large etched depiction


Icons too find their place in this chapel, where oriental liturgy is celebrated. The first icon that attracts out attention is the holy face of Jesus, in front of the Bema.


On either side of the sanctuary we have also the icons of the Blessed Mother and St Thomas, our father in faith.


The Sanctuary’s (Madbhaha) main attraction is the altar (Thronos ) made up of 12 separate stones, depicting the 12 Apostles. The Beth Gazze is finished in white marble.



At the centre of the eastern wall of the Sanctuary, we find the Mar Sliba sculpted in white marble and it shines forth from a fitting background provided by the mosaic artwork.




And finally, here is a night view of the Chapel situated at the heart of RCT