A Place of Worship, Fellowship, and Service
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Akbar's Church
Akbar’s Church, also known as the Church of Akbar, is the first Roman Catholic Church built in the Mughal Empire. Established in 1600 by Jesuit Fathers in Agra, it was founded on land granted by Emperor Akbar, who invited priests from Goa to learn about Christianity.
The church saw generous support from Akbar’s son Jahangir and other patrons. Though demolished in 1635 under Emperor Shah Jahan, it was rebuilt the following year with his permission. The first Holy Mass was celebrated on 8 September 1636.
Over the centuries, the church endured challenges, including looting after the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761. It was rebuilt in 1769 by Father Wendel S.J. with the help of Walter Reinhardt, and later expanded in 1835 by Bishop Antonino Pezzoni with contributions from Jean Baptiste Filose.
Today, Akbar’s Church stands as a historic symbol of faith and resilience in Agra.
Akbar’s Church, also known as the Church of Akbar, is the first Roman Catholic Church built in the Mughal Empire. Established in 1600 by Jesuit Fathers in Agra, it was founded on land granted by Emperor Akbar, who invited priests from Goa to learn about Christianity.
The church saw generous support from Akbar’s son Jahangir and other patrons. Though demolished in 1635 under Emperor Shah Jahan, it was rebuilt the following year with his permission. The first Holy Mass was celebrated on 8 September 1636.
Over the centuries, the church endured challenges, including looting after the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761. It was rebuilt in 1769 by Father Wendel S.J. with the help of Walter Reinhardt, and later expanded in 1835 by Bishop Antonino Pezzoni with contributions from Jean Baptiste Filose.
Today, Akbar’s Church stands as a historic symbol of faith and resilience in Agra.
Growing Together in Faith and Service
150+
Years of faithful unity
Celebrating over 150 yeards of worship, service and unity.
1500
Baptism
Celebrating 1500 souls welcomed into God’s family through the grace of baptism.
1300+
Confirmation
Celebrating over 1300 faithful confirmed strengthened in the Spirit and committed to Christ’s mission.
1000+
Marriages
Celebrating over 1000 sacred unions blessed in faith, love and lifelong commitment.
WHAT WE DOES
United in Living Faith
Worship
Discover renewal and deeper faith through uplifting worship and shared fellowship. All are welcome to participate.
Outreach
Join us in compassion and outreach, building connections and sharing God’s love with those around us.
Learning
Grow in understanding and faith through engaging classes and learning opportunities for all ages.
Meet Out Priests
A Word of Faith and Hospitality
Father Rajan
Father Rajan
Parish Priest
A sanctuary of faith and fellowship, uniting generations in the love of Christ
- 1842Education BeginsFounding of St. Patrick’s Jr. College, marking the parish’s early commitment to education.
- 1846 Foundation StoneConstruction of the Cathedral initiated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Anthony Borghi, OFM Cap.
St. Peter’s College also established this year. - 1848 First BlessingCathedral solemnly blessed on January 1 by Dr.Borghi.
Architect: Rev. Fr. Bonaventure from Florence. - 1857 War DamageCathedral extensively damaged during the First War of Independence.
- 1886 Metropolitan ElevationPope Leo XIII elevates Agra Vicariate Apostolic into a Metropolitan See.
- 1899 Marble GloryMagnificent High Altar donated by Messers John & Co. consecrated by Most Rev. Dr. Gentili, OFM Cap.
Enhancements: floor paved with black & white marble, six plaster side altars replaced with marble ones. - 1912 Girls’ EducationEstablishment of St. Vincent’s Girls’ High School.
- 1959 Expanding LearningFounding of St. Paul Inter College.
- 1986 Centenary RenovationMajor restoration under Archbishop Cecil DeSa and Msgr. Thomas K.C.; ceiling repainted, Stations of the Cross restored, boundary wall built.
- 2013 Modern RenewalRenovation led by Archbishop Albert D’Souza, Fr. John Ferreira, and Rev. Fr. Joe Thykkattil; oval boundary wall around Akbar’s Church added.
- Capuchin Fathers EraTransition of CareCathedral managed by Capuchin Fathers for many years, later handed to diocesan priests after the demise of Archbishop Derminic.
School / Institution within the Parish
Former Parish Priest's
- Fr. John Pachelli Fernandes : 1969-1973
- Fr. Ivan Thotungal, OFM Cap : 1973-1976
- Fr. Joe Vadakekkara: 1976-1985
- Msgr. K.C. Thomas : 1985-1990
- Fr. Joe Thykkattil : 1990-1999
- Fr. Gregory Tharayil : 1999-2001
- Fr. John D’Cunha : 2001-2005
- Abp. Raphy Manjaly : 2005-2007
- Fr. Jose Maliekal : 2007-2012
- Bp. Joe Thykkattil : 2012-2018
- Fr. Ignatius Miranda : 2018-2024
- Fr. Rajan Dass : 2024-
Why is community important to us?
Community is the heart of our parish, where friendships grow, support is shared, and faith is lived together.
How does worship strengthen our lives?
Worship unites us in prayer and praise, renewing our spirits and drawing us closer to God’s presence.
What role does service play in our mission?
Service reflects Christ’s love, inspiring us to care for the needy and bring hope to those around us.
Why do we value tradition?
Tradition connects us to our roots, honoring generations of faith while guiding us toward a faithful future.
How does scripture guide our journey?
God’s Word lights our path, teaching us wisdom, compassion, and strength to live faithfully each day.

















