The terms “Syro-Malabar Christian” and “St. Thomas Christian” refer to the ancient Christian community whose origins are traditionally traced to the apostolate of St. Thomas the Apostle, who, according to tradition, arrived in India and landed at Kodungallur (Cranganore), Kerala, in AD 52. From time immemorial, a community of Christians has existed along the Malabar Coast, tracing its spiritual heritage and faith tradition to those believed to have been converted by St. Thomas. This apostolic tradition has been faithfully preserved and cherished by the St. Thomas Christians of Kerala for generations.

Kerala is renowned for its hardworking, adventurous, ambitious, and enterprising people. Drawn by the opportunities and promise of Australia, the first Syro-Malabar families began settling in Melbourne more than two decades ago. These pioneering families remained deeply connected to their faith, culture, and spiritual heritage, actively participating in the available Catholic pastoral and spiritual services in and around the parishes of Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, and Laverton.

As the Syro-Malabar community continued to grow, more families settled in the rapidly developing western suburbs of Melbourne, particularly Point Cook and Tarneit. This growing community strengthened the desire for a dedicated Syro-Malabar pastoral presence where families could nurture their faith, preserve their traditions, and pass their spiritual heritage on to future generations.