As an oriental religion in Kerala, Christianity commenced in the first century AD and prospered across the state thereon.
11 of the 23 dioceses in the country are located in this state with churches here organized as Catholic and Non-Catholic.
While some churches in Kerala are committed to Mother Mary, there are many pledged to St.
Thomas and various patron saints like St.
George, St.
Peter, St.
Joseph, St.
Michael and St.
Paul among many others.
The elegantly tailored stained glass windows in the churches of Kerala are a must see.
Aruvithira Church:- At a distance of 11 km from Kottayam, this church is believed to be one among the seven churches to be founded by St.
Thomas.
Its annual feast is commemorated in April and includes a large assembly of devotees.
St.
George's Church:- Well-known for the golden cross, St.
Georges church was constructed by Thekkumkoor Rajas.
Its annual event is the feast of the patron saint.
St.
Thomas Church:- Yet another church to have been established by St.
Thomas, this church is situated at Cherpungal.
The church is considered to be an important religious haven in Kerala.
St.
Mary's Church:-Developed in the year 1579, St.
Marys church located at Cheriapalli is around 2km from the town of Kottayam.
It is the architectural design of this church that holds the attention of virtually every tourist visiting it.
The style adopted to build this church is a beautiful combination of Kerala and Portuguese fashion.
Another St.
Marys church based at Manarcad is known to be one of the most popular Jacobite Syrian churches in the country.
The important annual event sees devotees from across the globe gathering here to volunteer in the 8-day fasting observed.
St.
Thomas Mount:-The highlight of St.
Thomas Mount is the serene surroundings that make for an alluring view.
It is positioned at a height of 1200 feet above sea level.
Other churches in Kerala are St.
Josephs Monastery at Mannanam, Kaduthuruthi Valiapalli, Thazhathangadi Valiapalli and Kyomtha Chapel.