How to Travel to Sacred Christian Sites in India

Christianity in India dates back to the first century after the death of Jesus Christ. The presence of Christianity continues, and Christians from India and around the globe make pilgrimages to sacred sites in India. Focusing on God and eternal matters, Christians can visit such sites as the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, Church of the Sacred Heart in New Delhi, the Cathedral Church of St. Thomas in Mumbai and Mother Theresa Center in Calcutta, or they can schedule a retreat at Shantivanam in Tamil Nadu.

Instructions

1. 

   Visit the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa, at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, situated on India's West coast. In 1553, a year after his death, when the saint's body was relocated to Goa, the remains were reported to be as fresh as the day St. Francis Xavier died. Every 10 years, pilgrims flock to the Basilica of Bom Jesus to celebrate the miracle of St. Xavier.

2. 

   Travel to New Delhi and worship at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Prayers are conducted every day and regular Christian celebrations are held throughout the year. Catholic priest, Father Anthony de Mello donated the pure marble main altar.

3. 

   Journey to the cathedral dedicated to St. Thomas, who introduced Jesus' teachings 50 years after his death. The Cathedral Church of St. Thomas in Mumbai (Bombay) is Anglican Christian and is nearly 300-years-old. An architectural marvel, the Cathedral is an inspirational sacred site to visit any day or on Christian holy days.

4. 

   Witness the extraordinary works of the Missionaries of Charity and the legacy of Mother Teresa in Calcutta. The Mother Teresa Center disseminates information about Mother Teresa's charitable works and teachings. Lay missionaries are encouraged to take vows and work among the poor in Calcutta. See the Resources section for a link.

5. 

   Arrange a retreat at Saccidananda Ashram, Shantivanam (Forest of Peace) in Tamil Nadu, South India. Saccidananda (translated as being, consciousness and bliss) Ashram is open to people of all religious beliefs, but was founded by French Benedictines in 1950 and furthered with the help of Benedictine monk, Father Bede Griffiths. Worship services are held with Catholic and Hindu readings and prayers. People of all beliefs are invited to make retreats.

Resources

• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Church of the Sacred Heart Delhi
• St. Thomas Cathedral Mumbai
• Mother Theresa of Calcutta
• Shantivanam India