Churches of Karnataka gained considerable prominence over time for sheltering Christian beliefs and rituals since ancient times. They also narrate the historical events of the past which led to their establishment. With time these churches have acquired a distinct position among the significant monuments not only in the state but also throughout the country.
St. John`s Church
St. John`s Church ranks fourth among the ancient churches of Bangalore. The church is dedicated to St. John the Evangelist. In 1858, the church was consecrated by Rev Thomas Dealtry who was the Third Bishop of Madras.
Sacred Heart Church
Another popular church of Karnataka is Sacred Heart Church, located in Bangalore. It serves Mount Holly and surrounding areas. The church is historically very significant and its community is ethnically, economically and culturally very rich. Apart from sheltering the spiritual needs of numerous people, this church also offers fellowship, sacraments and education.
Infant Jesus Church
Infant Jesus Church was established by Rev. Dr. D. S. Lourduswamy who was the Secretary of the Sacred Congregation for the Evangelism of the people. The church is a famous pilgrimage site and is highly acclaimed for divine solace and miracles, not only in the country but in the whole world. Devotees from different parts of the world visit this church to pay respect and honour to Infant Jesus.
St. Philomena`s Church
St. Philomena`s Church, situated in Mysore, has been enlisted among the oldest churches of the country. About 250 years ago a small church came into being when Krishnaraja Wodeyar III realized the need to have a Church for the locality. Thus on the Mysore-Bangalore Road, a small plot of land was devoted by the Maharaja. Later, with the expansion of the city and the Christians, a need for larger church arose. This spectacular church now attracts a sea of tourists from all over the world.
St. Marks Cathedral
St. Marks Cathedral is an eminent colonial structure that was founded in the year 1808. It is situated in Bangalore. Its construction completed in the year 1812. This graceful cathedral has a beautiful dome that covers a semicircular channel.
St. Mary`s Basilica
Located in Bangalore, St. Mary`s Basilica was built by Rev. Kleiner in September 1882. The church is dedicated to Mary mother of God, who is believed to bless everyone irrespective of religion, caste, creed and language.
St Mary`s Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Cathedral
This is the first Syriac Orthodox Church situated in the Garden city Bangalore. In the early phase of 20th century many Sirian Christians from Kerala migrated to Bangalore to nourish their livelihood with education and economy.
Other Churches in Karnataka
Other churches of Karnataka include Holy Cross Church, Cordel, Holy Cross Church, Pavoor, Milagres Church, Mangalore, Mount Rosary Church, Monte Mariano Church, Our Lady of Rosary of Mangalore, St. Aloysius Chapel, St. Francis Xavier Church, Mangalore, St. Lawrence Shrine and Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Farangipet.
Churches of Karnataka are the testaments of exuberant architecture and different parts of the churches are embellished with intricate artistry. These churches, since ages, have supported and served the growing Christianity in India.
