Holy Trinity Church’s grandeur withstands time

Secunderabad: A historical marvel by itself, CSI Holy Trinity Church constituted in in 1847 and located in Bolarum, with all its original magnificence and architectural intricacies intact even today, is celebrating its 171st anniversary.

Constructed by Queen Victoria and visited by Elizabeth II, the church is known for its Victorian Gothic style infrastructure and was a place of worship for the British Army officers and their families who resided in Secunderabad.

The land for this historic church was donated by the Nizam’s government, when General Frazer was the resident of Hyderabad. The stained glass windows are similar to those of country churches in England. The pews in the church are original, as are the stained glass at the altar; the pulpit and the bell are all in their original eloquence, reflecting an era gone by.

The greatest jewel adorning it is the church altar. The pipe organ was built by Misquith & Co. organ builders company from the erstwhile Madras and it was erected by public subscription in May 1903.There are 44 tablets adorning the church interior, erected by the loved ones of departed souls.

The Queen of England, Elizabeth II came to Hyderabad on November 20, 1983. The Queen celebrated her 36th wedding anniversary in this church. The church service was officiated by Bishop Rt Rev Premasagar and his ministerial colleagues Rev T Prabhakar and Rev B P Sugandhar and Rev G J Hamilton, the then serving pastor.

Special invitation and passes were printed; every seat was marked and reserved for the guests and the congregation inside the church. The Queen’s visit to the church was scheduled for almost two hours, during which she unveiled a tablet to mark her visit. This is still inside the church.

This church is also referred as the ‘Queen’s Church’ Rev G Sandeep, in-charge pastor, said, “We have two services in English and Telugu. Almost 600 people come on Sundays. People come from all parts of India like North India, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to worship the lord. Devotees get peace when they visit this holy place as so much greenery surrounds this Church.”

Rev E J David, pastor of the church, said, “The cemetery next door has also been there since 18th century where the members of the church bury their loved ones. The people who have taken membership are allowed for burial.”