When did Christianity come to India? | The story of St. Thomas | St. Thomas Basilica, Chennai

Storytrails2 minutes read

Christianity in India has a small following of 2.5% of the population, introduced by St. Thomas in Kerala in the CE 52-76 period, with the Santhome Basilica in Chennai being one of the three Churches globally built over an Apostle's tomb.

Insights

  • Christianity in India represents a minority, with only 2.5% of the population identifying as Christian.
  • St. Thomas, an apostle of Jesus Christ, is credited with introducing Christianity to India in the first century, establishing the earliest Christian communities in Kerala, showcasing the deep historical roots of Christianity in the region.

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Recent questions

  • Who brought Christianity to India?

    St. Thomas, one of Jesus Christ's apostles, is believed to have brought Christianity to India around 52-76 CE, establishing the first Churches in Kerala.

  • What is the percentage of Christians in India?

    Christianity in India is not the predominant religion, with only 2.5% of the population being Christian.

  • Where is the Santhome Basilica located?

    The Santhome Basilica is located in Chennai, India, and is built over the tomb of St. Thomas.

  • How old are the Thomas Christians in Kerala?

    The Thomas Christians in Kerala are considered among the earliest practicing Christians globally, predating the adoption of Christianity as a state religion in Armenia by 250 years.

  • What are the three Churches built over an Apostle's remains?

    The Santhome Basilica in Chennai is one of only three Churches worldwide constructed over an Apostle's remains, alongside St. Peters in Vatican and St. James in Spain.

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Summary

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Christianity's Early Roots in India

  • Christianity in India is not the predominant religion, with only 2.5% of the population being Christian.
  • St. Thomas, one of Jesus Christ's apostles, is believed to have brought Christianity to India around 52-76 CE, establishing the first Churches in Kerala.
  • The Thomas Christians in Kerala are considered among the earliest practicing Christians globally, predating the adoption of Christianity as a state religion in Armenia by 250 years.
  • The Santhome Basilica in Chennai is built over the tomb of St. Thomas, making it one of only three Churches worldwide constructed over an Apostle's remains, alongside St. Peters in Vatican and St. James in Spain.
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