Kerala the land of diversity, variant religions, costume, and traditions are giving importance to each community. Christianity commenced in the 1st century AD and prospered athwart the state thereon. Major part of Christian community (11 of the 23 dioceses) in the country is located in this state with magnificent churches and chapels here organized as Catholic and Non-Catholic. While a number of churches in Kerala are devoted to Mother Mary, there are many pledged to various patron saints like St. Thomas, St. George, St. Michael, St. Peter, St. Joseph and St. Paul among many others. Most churches in Kerala are huge colonial buildings finished of stylishly tailored stained glass windows, wooden doors and most roofs with hand curved designs are the must seen features of churches in Kerala. Most people belonging to Christianity are seen in Kottayam and Kochi. Kochi is the best places to meet old churches build during the colonial periods.
Some few churches in Kerala are listed below.
Aruvithira Church: - This church is situated from about 11 km from the Kottayam town, and it is whispered to be one among the seven churches to be founded by St. Thomas. The annual feast commemorated in the month of April is very special and it includes a great congregation of devotees.
St. George's Church: - The golden cross is the well-known trait, St. George's church was constructed during the period of Thekkumkoor Rajas. Its yearly event is the banquet of the patron saint.
St. Thomas Church: - This is one among the seven churches been established by St. Thomas and it is situated at Cherpungal. The church is considered to be an important religious haven in Kerala history for the raise of Christianity.
St. Mary's Church: - This church is developed in the year 1579; St. Marys church located at Cheriapalli is about 2km from Kottayam Town. The architectural style adopted to build this amazing church is an attractive combination of Kerala and Portuguese style. The church situated at Manarcad is known to be one of the most famous Jacobite Syrian churches in India. 8-day fasting program is organized under the devotee of globe is a specialty which we can observe.
St. Thomas Mount: - It is situated at a height of about 1200 feet above sea level. Emphasize of St. Thomas Mount is the tranquil surroundings that make for a fascinating view.
St Cruz Basilica: - This is the original cathedral elevated to the pope Paul IV in 1558. This magnificent church is custom-built a new building in 1887 by Bishop Dom Gomez Vereira and sanctified in 1905.
