Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Tellicherry

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Tellicherry is an East Syriac Catholic church community in Kerala that serves thousands of faithful across the region. Saint Joseph's Cathedral in Palissery serves as the center of this religious community and coordinates its many parishes.

The archdiocese was established in 1953 in response to Syrian Christians who had moved to the Malabar region and needed their own church structure. Its founding directly answered the needs of these migrant communities seeking to maintain their own liturgical traditions.

The community worships using East Syriac liturgy with prayers and services conducted in Malayalam, showing how ancient traditions blend with local language and culture. This mix of old rituals and contemporary life shapes how people experience faith here.

Visitors can attend services at the cathedral in Palissery where the community gathers for worship and prayer. The location is easily accessible and welcomes those interested in experiencing the local Christian community and its traditions.

The archdiocese owes its creation to a high-ranking cardinal's visit who recognized the community's distinct needs and championed their ecclesiastical independence. This made it a remarkable example of honoring separate Christian traditions within the region.

Inception: 1953

Part of: Syro-Malabar Catholic Ecclesiastical Province of Tellicherry

Website: http://archdioceseoftellicherry.org

GPS coordinates: 11.76148,75.47612

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06