About Christ the King Church (also known as Christ the King Syro-Malabar Catholic Church) in Vilakkannur, Kerala, India:
Christ the King Church (also known as Christ the King Syro-Malabar Catholic Church) in Vilakkannur, Kerala, India, is a modest parish church (consecrated 1960) that gained global attention due to a Vatican-recognized Eucharistic miracle, the first Eucharistic miracle in India to be officially recognized by the Vatican. It serves a small rural community (around 600 families) in the Chempanthotty Forane.
The church is a typical Syro-Malabar Catholic parish building; functional and unassuming from the outside, with white and blue/gray accents, a cross-topped structure, and space for outdoor gatherings.
The Eucharistic Miracle at Christ the King Church in Vilakkannur, Kerala, India:
On November 15, 2013, during a regular morning Mass celebrated by Fr. Thomas Pathickal, as Father Thomas Pathickal raised the host during the consecration, a mysterious spot appeared and gradually developed into a radiant, human facea small dark spot appeared on the consecrated host as it was elevated. The spot gradually brightened and formed a clear image resembling the face of Jesus Christ (often described as the “Holy Face”). Witnesses present during the Mass observed the change.
The host underwent thorough investigations, including scientific analysis in Bangalore (Christ University) and review in Rome. Experts reportedly found that the image originated from within the host itself, with no external paint, ink, or material added. After years of study by the Syro-Malabar Church’s Theological Commission and Vatican review, the Holy See officially recognized it as an authentic Eucharistic miracle in May 2025 (with a solemn declaration and celebration on May 31, 2025). It is described as the first such Vatican-approved Eucharistic miracle in India.
The miraculous host is now enshrined for public veneration and perpetual Eucharistic adoration, making the church a growing pilgrimage site. Many faithful visit to pray, attend adoration, and reflect on the Real Presence in the Eucharist. Pilgrims come for quiet prayer, Masses, and to venerate the relic. The church hosts daily Masses and confession. As a pilgrimage spot, it emphasizes Eucharistic devotion and faith in Christ’s presence.
For more details, the parish has associated Facebook pages (e.g., holyfacevilakkannur) and mentions of an official site like holyfacevilakkannur.com.
Traveling to Christ the King Church in Vilakkannur, Kerala, India:
The church is reachable by road from Kannur or nearby towns like Naduvil. The area is rural and peaceful. Vilakkannur remains a simple village parish, but the miracle has transformed it into a place of deeper spiritual significance for Catholics, especially those drawn to Eucharistic miracles and the Syro-Malabar tradition. The miraculous host is now housed in a side altar at Christ the King Church for public prayers and veneration.
Address: Vilakkannur, Naduvil P.O., Kannur District, Kerala 670582 (under the Syro-Malabar Archdiocese of Thalassery/Tellicherry).
Phone: +91 94000 62892
email: vilakkannurchristthekingchurch@gmail.com
Sources: archdioceseoftellicherry.org