St. John`s Church, situated in Secunderabad city of Andhra Pradesh, is a prominent church of south India belonging to Medak Diocese. Also referred as Church of St. John the Baptist, it is credited as the oldest church of the twin cities Hyderabad and Secunderabad. A rich Anglican tradition can be witnessed in the church and it invites people from all strata of society for worshipping. It serves as a spiritual refuge for the Christians of the twin cities.
History of St. John`s Church
The license for the construction of St. John`s Church was issued in the year 1813. Its construction completed after a few years and it was consecrated and dedicated to the glory of God. St. John`s Church served the holy needs of the British forces who were stationed at Lancer`s Line, Secunderabad. Soldiers of the British Army, non-commissioned officers, military officers and railway officers of the Nizam warranted state railway used to worship regularly at the church. The south wing of the church accommodated many Indian Christians along with some British civilians. The maintenance of the church was attended by the Military Engineering Service. The first chaplain of the church was Rev. J. Brachenbury. In 1914 electric lighting was installed in the church. The aisles and open spaces were also tiled in 1914. The steps were made in marble from the sanctuary. New telescopic brass altars were raised. At the foot of the altar, there are three circular pieces of art floor that covers the entire floor with Minton tiles on either side.
Architecture of St. John`s Church
This church is shaped in a cruciform manner. The ceiling is made of the Rangoon teak which is supported by columns designed according to the Tuscan order which is known to be the simplified version of the Doric order.
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