The people of Kothamangalam celebrate the Cheriyapally festival on October 2 and 3 with piety and festivity. The State Government also have been cooperative always by extending to the church help in managing travel facilities, security arrangements and by declaring a local holiday during the festival. The colourful ‘Rasa’ (Ceremonial procession) of the festival days is led by a Nair youth from the Chakkala family carrying a traditional lamp recalling how Bawa was escorted to the Church by his ancestor.
The Kanni 20 Perunnal is an auspicious time to pay homage to Bawa. It is a popular feast and hence the best time to be here is early October when the Festival is held to commemorate Bawa. This brings devotees from near and far for a great religious and cultural meet. It also provides a social occasion to invite close families and friends to share moments of joy and love.

The people of this land share everything with the church. During the festival, devotees offer to their Church the fruits of their labour as well as a share of the money that they earn. They believe all their gains are due to the blessings of Bawa and they faithfully offer to Bawa a share of the fruits of their hard work.

People come to this Church all throughout the year. Devotees are well taken care of by the Church Managing committee. Free food and accommodation are provided to the devotees. The pleasure and pain are shared by every home here and Bawa of Cheriyapally. This makes the place a hallowed ground of holiness for devotees and pilgrims.

Bawa is the Patron Saint of Kothamangalam and Mar Thoma Cheriyapally is the source of eternal light of this place.