ST. THOMAS

It is the tradition in Malabar, that the Apostle was successful in the conversion of the high caste Nambhudiri Brahmins. Four of the leading Brahmin families are believed to have been raised to the privilege of priesthood. They are: Pakalomattam (Palamattam), Sankarapuri, Kalli and Kallian Kavu. The head of the Malabar Church - the Archdeacon - had to be selected from Pakalomattam. This practice was continued among the Jacobite seceders, till a hundred years ago.

There is a strong tradition throughout Malabar that St. Thomas founded seven (or seven and half)churches or groups of Christians, in the following places:

1. Kodungalloor / Azhikode
2. Palayur
3. Parur or Kottakavu
4. Kokkamangalam
5. Niranam
6. Chayal or Nilakal
7. Quilon or Kollam
Half Church . Thiruvithamcode ( Kolachal), Thukalay

All the churches, save the one at Chayal, are on the coast or very near it. A glance at Kerala map will show that Palur is the northernmost church while Quilon is the southernmost, the distance between them being about 230 miles. Chayal is situated very much in the interior on the Sabarimala Hills. The old church is now in a dilapidated state amidst jungles. Kokkamangalam is about 20 miles south of Parur. Half church Thiruvithamcode is near Kanyakumari.

✏ Kottakavu St.Thomas built church Website
✏ Azhikode/Kodungalloor(erstwhile Muziriis- the port where St.Thomas - Landed in India in AD 52) Website
✏ Palayoor Church - the oldest church in India built by St Thomas where he baptised some of the local people Website
✏ Jerusalem Retreat Centre (More than 50 relics of Saints is kept in this retreat centre) Website
✏ Chalakudy - Replica of Holy Land at St.Mary's Forane Church. Website