Holy Trinity Church celebrates 120th anniversary

The Holy Trinity Church, nestled behind the shrine of Shah Turkman Bayabani at 1781 Ajmeri Gate Road in the national capital, celebrated its 120th anniversary on Friday.

Withstanding the buffets of time for over a century, the church continues to overawe with its timeproof grandeur without a brick displaced. The place of worship also serves as one of the historical landmarks of Shahjahanabad, the old walled city of Delhi.

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“The church was built in 1905 by Rev Mary Rosetta Maitland in memory of her late husband, Rev Alexander Charles Maitland of the Church of England. The surrounding compound, known as the King’s Compound, is named after Rev. Hugh Basil King, who served the church until his passing in 1939. The traditional fans that adorn the church today date back to the time of their installation as a memorial to Rev Hugh, “ a press release by the church said.

“Frail in his early years, Rev. Alexander undertook long voyages to restore his health. It was during one such journey that he passed through Delhi en route to Kashmir on a shooting expedition. Captivated by the missionary work of the Cambridge Mission Brotherhood, he joined their ranks in 1880 — a decision that defined his life’s calling,” it added.

During the turmoil of the Partition, the church opened its doors to refugees of all faiths, offering food, clothing, shelter, and peace — living proof of its message of universal love. Even today, people from all communities visit the Holy Trinity Church, especially on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Easter, Good Friday, and Palm Sunday, drawn by its message of harmony and hope.

Now recognized as a heritage religious site, the church has always stood as a symbol of love, peace, and fraternity in Delhi’s vibrant cultural fabric.