St. John the baptist church, Thane Overview

Christianity has existed in Thane since the 16th century, and the St John the Baptist church stands in glory as a proof to it. This church is one of the oldest in Thane and has existed over 500 years. This magnificent church surrounded by the Masunda Lake imparts a picturesque view to the entire city and has been a significant tourist attraction. The rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty have enhanced the importance of the church among tourists in general and Christians in particular. Christians or not, tourists make it a point to visit this century-old church at least once when they are in Pune.

St John the Baptist Church has been quite a favourite among tourists and the local Christians of Thane. The church attracts a large number of people during the occasion of Christmas and Easter, which is celebrated with great grandeur. Thus to enjoy the spectacular beauty of the church, these are the times that tourists should choose to visit.

History of St John the Baptist Church

The church was built as early as the 16th century when the Portuguese carried out trade in Thane. Located near the port, the Portuguese had always considered Thane as a very resourceful city and therefore tried to establish their colonies there. This church was often used to baptise the locals by the Christian missionaries apart from conducting regular masses for the Christians that is practised till date. Later with the onset of British rule in India, the grandeur of the church was significantly increased, making it a remarkable piece of architecture in Thane.

Architecture of the Church

The St. John the Baptist church is a mixture of Portuguese and British architectural features. The huge palatial construction comprises of high ceilings and enormous doors with beautiful paintings in the interior.

The walls of the church have exquisite carvings and paintings depicting the different phases in the life of Jesus Christ. One of the most significant paintings is the Last Supper. The church is beautifully lit by dim lights and candles which illuminate the entire place. The presence of the Masunda Lake constructed during British rule also adds to the beauty of the Church, and it is because of this scenic beauty that the place has become a significant tourist attraction.

Mass Timings

Sunday: 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:15 AM and 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM
Weekday: 6:00 AM, 6:45 AM and 7:00 PM.
Mass in Konkani: 4th Sunday of every month - 7:00 AM.
Mass in Tamil: 2nd Sunday of every month at 10.30 AM.
Malayalam Mass: Every Sunday 11:00 AM.

Church Cemetery Timings

Weekdays: 5.30 AM - 8.00 AM & 6.00 PM - 8.00 PM
Sundays: 5.30 AM - 11.00 AM & Evening 4.30 PM - 7.30 PM

Other Facilities at the Church

Marriage 5:00 PM on all days
Sacrament of the sick- on any day with prior notice
Funerals- Monday to Saturday- 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Sundays- 3:00 PM.
House blessing- with prior notice.
Sunday school- After 8:00 AM.

How To Reach St. John the Baptist Church

St John the Baptist Church is located in Kopdi Thane and is very well connected by buses which take the Borivali road. In fact, it is the easiest for tourists to take a bus to reach the spot. There are frequent bus services from Thakur College of Science and Commerce, Galleria Mall, Haiko supermarket and many other places. 602, 90, 65 AC and 58 are some of the most frequent buses that travel through this route.