St. John Church
Popularly known as the St. John Church in Wilderness, the St. John Church is a historic monument situated in Dharamshala and is also one of the oldest churches in Northern India. It is located roughly 10 kms away from Dharamshala and a kilometer from McLeodganj. The church with its unique gothic nature has a connection to the Church of England thereby crediting it with more significant importance. Built in 1852 dedicated to Saint John, the church is on the way to McLeodganj and is located in the midst of beautiful deodar trees.
The church is well known for its Belgian stained glass windows and is built with grey stone. The St. John Church is one of the few buildings that are still in existence from the British rule. The British style of architecture is extremely evident in the edifice of the church, with elegant wood of the altar and the brass handles of the oil lamps. These lamps have now been replaced with electric lamps.
The earthquake that rocked Dharamshala in 1905 destroyed literally everything; however the St. John Church survived the brutality of the attack and stood strong. The only portion of the construction that it lost was the Bell Tower, which was later replaced in 1915. The bell hangs down from a tower which is about 300 meters tall. The church went through a minor reconstruction in 1929.
The church is about a 15 minute stroll from McLeodganj. The path leading to the church is laid out with stone and is a pleasant walk essentially because of the cover of deodar trees. The church is the final resting place of Lord Elgin, who was the former viceroy of India during the British rule. The church also has a Christian style cemetery that is well maintained. It is believed that the viceroy liked the place of Dharamshala so much that he asked to be buried in the cemetery of St. John Church. The inscription on his burial stone reads – “He being dead yet speaketh”. Because of this, there is a monument of Lord Elgin erected near the church. The church is flanked by many cenotaph tablets, each of which has a specific story to tell.
The area around the church instills a sense of peace and calmness in the minds of people who visit there. Sitting on the benches of the church gazing into the deodar trees and enjoying the beauty of nature is a wonderful way to spend the evening. Having a conversation with the church authority provides valuable insights on the significance of the church as well as on some history, possibly some anecdotes too. The church conducts regular masses and all folks are welcome to attend. The church creates a sense of spiritual concord among Christianity, Buddhism and Hinduism which are the prominent religions practiced in Dharamshala.
There are a number of monuments around the globe with very interesting stories attached it. The St. John Church of Wilderness not only has stories, but also has a lot of history linked to it. It is a must-visit place during a trip to Dharamshala.