Stella Maris means the star of the Sea and this name suits beautifully to this Church. Stella Maris Church is situated on the coastal banks of the Arabian Sea.
Kalmady being a small village was totally unknown to the outside people. But now because of Stella Maris Church and the lady of Velankanni Shrine, it has become a great pilgrim Centre.
Inspired by Noah’s Ark, the new building of Stella Maris Church in Kalmady, is built in the shape of a boat and also has a bell tower in the shape of a lighthouse.
The concept behind the unique boat-shaped architecture of Stella Maris Church is Noah’s Ark. The Noah’s Ark is a biblical story, tells how all creation was safeguarded from being destroyed in flood. Similarly, the church aims to be the ark that will provide refuge to people and help them sail through hard times of life.

The belfry tower replicates the Kaup lighthouse. The tower is nearly 80 ft in height and the staircase is also constructed similar to the lighthouse design. The bell is brought from Hamburg Germany and weighs 305 Kg. The image of Our Lady of Vailankani is carved on the Bell.
Just like the lighthouse guides sailors to the shore, the bell tower symbolizes being a ‘guide’. While the world is compared to a sea of temptation, the tower and the bell aim to remind people that Jesus saves us when we call upon him.

To know more about the church, click here.