About
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, also called the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Delhi, is a Roman Catholic church designed by Henry Alexander Medd, who was part of Lutyen's team that designed much of New Delhi. In 2011, the Hindustan Times named the cathedral as one of the icons of the city of Delhi.
Location
Spread over an area of 14 acres, the holy monument is located on the Bhai Vir Singh Marg near the Gol Post Office in Connaught Place, New Delhi. It lies between two convent schools: the Convent of Jesus and Mary, and the Saint Columbus. The official address is 1, Ashok Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001.
History
The establishment of the church was initiated by Father Luke, a member of the Franciscan first order, founded by St. Francis of Assisi.
In 1929 the foundation stone of the Sacred Heart Cathedral was laid by Rev. Dr. E.Vanni, the Archbishop of Agra, while the construction started in 1930. The main altar of the church was donated by Sir Anthony de Mello whereas the vestments, the altar furniture and the bell were given by the Archbishop of Agra. Other expenses were met by the colonial officers of the British Empire.
Best Time to Visit
Weather wise, Delhi experiences the best conditions from the months of October to March. The month of January, however, tends to be the coldest, and should be ideally avoided.
One must not miss the two most important celebrations at the church which occur at the time of Easter and Christmas. The church must be visited during the Christmas week to enjoy the tune of jingles and lighted well-decorated trees in the vicinity of the church. The Christmas Vigil Service and the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth are the highlights of the Christmas celebration. It takes place an hour before midnight of the Christmas Eve.
How to Reach
There are many options to reach to the holy place as it is located in the heart of the capital. One may opt for the local bus service that connects Connaught Place from different areas of Delhi. However, it is best to commute to the church via the Delhi Metro till the Rajiv Chowk station, which lies on both Yellow Line as well as Blue Line. From here, you can either walk or hire an auto-rickshaw for about Rs. 30-50.
Timings
One may visit the church between 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. or between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. On Saturdays the church remains open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. So make sure you do not disappoint yourself by visiting it at odd hours.
Services are offered twice daily, once in the morning and then in the evening.
Last Updated on : December 18, 2013
