St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral, Kottar: A Sacred Legacy
Where Heaven Touches Earth in Tamil Nadu
In the southern tip of India, where the ancient river Pazhayaru bends toward the sea, stands a testament to faith that has endured for over four centuries. St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Kottar, Nagercoil, is more than an architectural marvel—it is a living sanctuary where miracles bloom, martyrs rest, and countless pilgrims find the grace they seek.
In the southern tip of India, where the ancient river Pazhayaru bends toward the sea, stands a testament to faith that has endured for over four centuries. St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Kottar, Nagercoil, is more than an architectural marvel—it is a living sanctuary where miracles bloom, martyrs rest, and countless pilgrims find the grace they seek.
A Town Called by the River's Bend
Kottar derives its name from the Tamil word "Kottaru," meaning the bend of the river. This humble suburb of Nagercoil was once a thriving metropolis. Ancient Greek geographer Ptolemy visited in the first century and bestowed upon it the distinguished title "Metropolis." The town was mentioned again in the Periplus of the second century, testimony to its importance as a commercial hub in the Venad Kingdom.
Among Kottar's diverse population lived the Chavalakars, kinfolk to the Paravars of Cape Comorin. It was for these fishing communities and their neighbors that a Spanish Jesuit would risk everything to bring the light of Christ.
Kottar derives its name from the Tamil word "Kottaru," meaning the bend of the river. This humble suburb of Nagercoil was once a thriving metropolis. Ancient Greek geographer Ptolemy visited in the first century and bestowed upon it the distinguished title "Metropolis." The town was mentioned again in the Periplus of the second century, testimony to its importance as a commercial hub in the Venad Kingdom.
Among Kottar's diverse population lived the Chavalakars, kinfolk to the Paravars of Cape Comorin. It was for these fishing communities and their neighbors that a Spanish Jesuit would risk everything to bring the light of Christ.
The Apostle of the Indies Comes to Kottar
St. Francis Xavier, the great missionary saint and co-founder of the Society of Jesus, arrived in Goa in May 1542. Within months, drawn by the Holy Spirit's call, he sailed to Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari) in October of that year. What he found were scattered Christian communities descended from the mission of St. Thomas the Apostle, who had evangelized this region in 52 AD.
St. Francis Xavier, the great missionary saint and co-founder of the Society of Jesus, arrived in Goa in May 1542. Within months, drawn by the Holy Spirit's call, he sailed to Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari) in October of that year. What he found were scattered Christian communities descended from the mission of St. Thomas the Apostle, who had evangelized this region in 52 AD.
The Miracle of Vadasery
In 1544, a pivotal moment in the region's history unfolded. Under Captain Vittal Rao's leadership, the Vijayanagar army, joined by Pandian and Chola forces, marched to capture the Venad Kingdom. As news of the approaching Vadugars (invaders) spread, panic seized Kottar. People fled their homes, fearing for their lives.
Living then in a simple hut in Kottar, Francis Xavier sensed the danger. He rushed to an elevated area in Vadasery, just two kilometers north, and stood like a colossus—holding his crucifix aloft. The sight of this holy man, cross raised high against the sky, struck fear into the hearts of the marauding army. Heeding his warning not to advance, they retreated.
The grateful Raja of Travancore, moved by Xavier's courage and divine intervention, showed him special favor. He granted Xavier land in Kottar—land where a small shrine to Mary already stood. Here, the origin of the Cathedral begins: Francis Xavier built a chapel for Our Lady and celebrated Mass in this sacred space.
In 1544, a pivotal moment in the region's history unfolded. Under Captain Vittal Rao's leadership, the Vijayanagar army, joined by Pandian and Chola forces, marched to capture the Venad Kingdom. As news of the approaching Vadugars (invaders) spread, panic seized Kottar. People fled their homes, fearing for their lives.
Living then in a simple hut in Kottar, Francis Xavier sensed the danger. He rushed to an elevated area in Vadasery, just two kilometers north, and stood like a colossus—holding his crucifix aloft. The sight of this holy man, cross raised high against the sky, struck fear into the hearts of the marauding army. Heeding his warning not to advance, they retreated.
The grateful Raja of Travancore, moved by Xavier's courage and divine intervention, showed him special favor. He granted Xavier land in Kottar—land where a small shrine to Mary already stood. Here, the origin of the Cathedral begins: Francis Xavier built a chapel for Our Lady and celebrated Mass in this sacred space.
From Humble Chapel to Magnificent Cathedral
The cathedral's evolution mirrors the growth of faith itself—from a seed to a mighty tree.
The cathedral's evolution mirrors the growth of faith itself—from a seed to a mighty tree.
The Early Foundations (1542-1603)
Between 1542 and 1550, St. Francis Xavier himself constructed the primitive church that still subsists within the present structure. However, until 1602, the construction of Christian churches remained forbidden under Travancore's maharajas.
In 1602, a breakthrough occurred. The South Travancore maharaja, moved by divine grace, donated his own garden at Kottar to Italian Jesuit priest Fr. Andreas Pucchario. In 1603, Fr. Pucchario built the first formal church with mud and wood at the very spot where St. Xavier had offered prayers. The faithful called it "Trinity Church," though the people, with their great devotion to Xavier, lovingly referred to it as "Saveriyar Koil" (Xavier's Temple).
A Historic Dedication: In 1605, Fr. Pucchario formally dedicated the church to St. Francis Xavier—seventeen years before the saint's canonization in 1622. This makes St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral, Kottar, the first church in the entire world to be dedicated to the Apostle of the Indies.
Between 1542 and 1550, St. Francis Xavier himself constructed the primitive church that still subsists within the present structure. However, until 1602, the construction of Christian churches remained forbidden under Travancore's maharajas.
In 1602, a breakthrough occurred. The South Travancore maharaja, moved by divine grace, donated his own garden at Kottar to Italian Jesuit priest Fr. Andreas Pucchario. In 1603, Fr. Pucchario built the first formal church with mud and wood at the very spot where St. Xavier had offered prayers. The faithful called it "Trinity Church," though the people, with their great devotion to Xavier, lovingly referred to it as "Saveriyar Koil" (Xavier's Temple).
A Historic Dedication: In 1605, Fr. Pucchario formally dedicated the church to St. Francis Xavier—seventeen years before the saint's canonization in 1622. This makes St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral, Kottar, the first church in the entire world to be dedicated to the Apostle of the Indies.
Growth Through the Centuries
- 1640: The church was reconstructed in stone, as recorded in the Society of Jesus reports of 1644
- 1865: Major expansion occurred with the addition of cruciform wings, the present sanctuary was added and vaulted over, and the Shrine of Our Lady was renovated
- 1876: Architect Jokin Fernandes from Kollam designed the magnificent wooden main altar
- Late 19th Century: The iconic stone mandap (pillared hall) was constructed in front of the church, designed by architect John Louis Fernandes, who was later buried within it—a beautiful fusion of Indian architectural tradition with Catholic worship
- 1930: The church was elevated to cathedral status when the Diocese of Kottar was established on May 30th, with Msgr. Lawrence Pereira as its first bishop
- 1942: To commemorate the 400th anniversary of St. Xavier's arrival in India, a tower was erected with a statue of the saint atop it, along with a grotto to Our Lady of Lourdes and a small shrine to St. Ignatius of Loyola
- 1956: Further extensions were made on the western, southern, and northern sides, creating the cross-shaped layout
- 1640: The church was reconstructed in stone, as recorded in the Society of Jesus reports of 1644
- 1865: Major expansion occurred with the addition of cruciform wings, the present sanctuary was added and vaulted over, and the Shrine of Our Lady was renovated
- 1876: Architect Jokin Fernandes from Kollam designed the magnificent wooden main altar
- Late 19th Century: The iconic stone mandap (pillared hall) was constructed in front of the church, designed by architect John Louis Fernandes, who was later buried within it—a beautiful fusion of Indian architectural tradition with Catholic worship
- 1930: The church was elevated to cathedral status when the Diocese of Kottar was established on May 30th, with Msgr. Lawrence Pereira as its first bishop
- 1942: To commemorate the 400th anniversary of St. Xavier's arrival in India, a tower was erected with a statue of the saint atop it, along with a grotto to Our Lady of Lourdes and a small shrine to St. Ignatius of Loyola
- 1956: Further extensions were made on the western, southern, and northern sides, creating the cross-shaped layout
Architectural Splendor: A Symphony of Styles
Walking through St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral is like stepping through layers of sacred history. The architecture tells a story of cultural synthesis and evolving devotion.
Romanesque Foundation: The old church and original vaulting reflect the Romanesque style, solid and enduring.
Gothic Grandeur: The extensions and exterior showcase Gothic elements—soaring heights that draw the eye and heart heavenward.
Indian Cultural Identity: The stone mandap with its massive pillars stands as a purely Indian contribution, where Eastern and Western spiritual aesthetics meet in harmony.
The cathedral houses precious treasures: a wooden statue of St. Francis Xavier brought from Goa graces the main altar, and a major relic of the saint is exposed for veneration during feast days. High domes crown both the main altar and St. Mary's shrine, their vaulted ceilings echoing with centuries of prayers.
Walking through St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral is like stepping through layers of sacred history. The architecture tells a story of cultural synthesis and evolving devotion.
Romanesque Foundation: The old church and original vaulting reflect the Romanesque style, solid and enduring.
Gothic Grandeur: The extensions and exterior showcase Gothic elements—soaring heights that draw the eye and heart heavenward.
Indian Cultural Identity: The stone mandap with its massive pillars stands as a purely Indian contribution, where Eastern and Western spiritual aesthetics meet in harmony.
The cathedral houses precious treasures: a wooden statue of St. Francis Xavier brought from Goa graces the main altar, and a major relic of the saint is exposed for veneration during feast days. High domes crown both the main altar and St. Mary's shrine, their vaulted ceilings echoing with centuries of prayers.
The Tomb of a Martyr: St. Devasahayam Pillai
Within the cathedral's sanctuary rests one of Christianity's most remarkable witnesses—St. Devasahayam Pillai, India's first layman to be canonized.
Within the cathedral's sanctuary rests one of Christianity's most remarkable witnesses—St. Devasahayam Pillai, India's first layman to be canonized.
From Palace to Prison to Paradise
Born Neelakanda Pillai on April 23, 1712, into an affluent Nair family, he served as an official in the court of King Marthanda Varma of Travancore. Through conversations with Benedictus Eustachio De Lannoy, a Dutch officer who had become a trusted advisor to the king, Neelakanda encountered Christ.
In 1745, at Vadakkankulam, Fr. Giovanni Battista Buttari, S.J., baptized him "Lazarus"—or in Tamil, "Devasahayam," meaning "God is my help." This conversion from a high-caste Hindu to Christianity was revolutionary. Devasahayam began preaching fearlessly about the equality of all people before God—a message that challenged the rigid caste system.
Born Neelakanda Pillai on April 23, 1712, into an affluent Nair family, he served as an official in the court of King Marthanda Varma of Travancore. Through conversations with Benedictus Eustachio De Lannoy, a Dutch officer who had become a trusted advisor to the king, Neelakanda encountered Christ.
In 1745, at Vadakkankulam, Fr. Giovanni Battista Buttari, S.J., baptized him "Lazarus"—or in Tamil, "Devasahayam," meaning "God is my help." This conversion from a high-caste Hindu to Christianity was revolutionary. Devasahayam began preaching fearlessly about the equality of all people before God—a message that challenged the rigid caste system.
Three Years of Torment
The king, enraged by his conversion, tried to force him back to Hinduism. When Devasahayam refused, he was denounced as a traitor. For three long years, he endured imprisonment and brutal torture with unwavering patience and faith.
The king, enraged by his conversion, tried to force him back to Hinduism. When Devasahayam refused, he was denounced as a traitor. For three long years, he endured imprisonment and brutal torture with unwavering patience and faith.
The Final Witness
On January 14, 1752, by royal order, Devasahayam was dragged to Kattadimalai in Aralvaimozhi, at the boundary between Travancore and the Pandya Kingdom. According to tradition, when soldiers attempted to shoot him, their guns failed to fire. Devasahayam took the weapon, blessed it, and handed it back—inviting them to complete their duty if they wished. They fired five times.
His body was thrown among the rocks to be consumed by wild animals. But five days later, Christians discovered his remains. In a remarkable detail, while his flesh had been stripped away, his tongue remained incorrupt—the very tongue that had proclaimed Christ. His bones were gathered with reverence and buried in front of the high altar of St. Xavier's Church, Kottar.
On January 14, 1752, by royal order, Devasahayam was dragged to Kattadimalai in Aralvaimozhi, at the boundary between Travancore and the Pandya Kingdom. According to tradition, when soldiers attempted to shoot him, their guns failed to fire. Devasahayam took the weapon, blessed it, and handed it back—inviting them to complete their duty if they wished. They fired five times.
His body was thrown among the rocks to be consumed by wild animals. But five days later, Christians discovered his remains. In a remarkable detail, while his flesh had been stripped away, his tongue remained incorrupt—the very tongue that had proclaimed Christ. His bones were gathered with reverence and buried in front of the high altar of St. Xavier's Church, Kottar.
Recognition of Holiness
- 2012: Pope Benedict XVI declared him "Venerable" on June 28
- December 2, 2012: Beatification ceremony held in Nagercoil, exactly 300 years after his birth
- May 15, 2022: Canonized as a saint by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square
His tomb, beautifully restored and honored, continues to draw countless pilgrims. St. Devasahayam stands as a powerful witness that the call to martyrdom transcends culture and era—and that courage in faith can bloom even in the face of death.
- 2012: Pope Benedict XVI declared him "Venerable" on June 28
- December 2, 2012: Beatification ceremony held in Nagercoil, exactly 300 years after his birth
- May 15, 2022: Canonized as a saint by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square
His tomb, beautifully restored and honored, continues to draw countless pilgrims. St. Devasahayam stands as a powerful witness that the call to martyrdom transcends culture and era—and that courage in faith can bloom even in the face of death.
"Ketta Varam Tharum Kottaaru Saveriar"—Xavier Who Grants All Favors
After Goa, where St. Francis Xavier's incorrupt body is venerated, Kottar stands as the second most important pilgrimage site dedicated to this great missionary saint. The cathedral has earned a reputation that spans centuries and communities.
After Goa, where St. Francis Xavier's incorrupt body is venerated, Kottar stands as the second most important pilgrimage site dedicated to this great missionary saint. The cathedral has earned a reputation that spans centuries and communities.
A Reputation Built on Miracles
The favors granted through St. Francis Xavier's intercession at this church have been so numerous and powerful that Tamil-speaking devotees gave him an affectionate proverbial name: "Ketta Varam Tharum Kottaaru Saveriar"—"Saint Xavier of Kottar, the Granter of All Favors."
Pope Urban VIII's Bull of Canonization in 1623 referenced many miracles at Kottar, including the raising of a one-month-old child who had died and was being carried to the cemetery. The parents promised to name the child Francis if he survived—and through the saint's intercession, the infant was restored to life.
In the early 17th century, offerings to the church were so abundant that they sustained five other churches in the surrounding areas. Though wars and calamities destroyed those churches, St. Xavier's Cathedral survived—protected, remarkably, not only by Christians but also by Hindus who recognized the holiness of this place.
The favors granted through St. Francis Xavier's intercession at this church have been so numerous and powerful that Tamil-speaking devotees gave him an affectionate proverbial name: "Ketta Varam Tharum Kottaaru Saveriar"—"Saint Xavier of Kottar, the Granter of All Favors."
Pope Urban VIII's Bull of Canonization in 1623 referenced many miracles at Kottar, including the raising of a one-month-old child who had died and was being carried to the cemetery. The parents promised to name the child Francis if he survived—and through the saint's intercession, the infant was restored to life.
In the early 17th century, offerings to the church were so abundant that they sustained five other churches in the surrounding areas. Though wars and calamities destroyed those churches, St. Xavier's Cathedral survived—protected, remarkably, not only by Christians but also by Hindus who recognized the holiness of this place.
A Pilgrimage for All People
Next to Goa, Kottar receives the largest number of pilgrims venerating St. Francis Xavier. What makes this cathedral extraordinary is its universal appeal: people from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, language, or religion, come to worship and seek intercession here. Over 500,000 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and beyond throng to the cathedral during the annual feast.
Next to Goa, Kottar receives the largest number of pilgrims venerating St. Francis Xavier. What makes this cathedral extraordinary is its universal appeal: people from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, language, or religion, come to worship and seek intercession here. Over 500,000 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and beyond throng to the cathedral during the annual feast.
The Annual Feast: Ten Days of Divine Celebration
From November 24 to December 3 each year, the cathedral and surrounding streets transform into a living expression of devotion. The ten-day festival culminates on December 3rd, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier.
From November 24 to December 3 each year, the cathedral and surrounding streets transform into a living expression of devotion. The ten-day festival culminates on December 3rd, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier.
The Grand Car Procession
The highlight of the celebration is the magnificent car procession, where a beautifully decorated chariot carrying the statue of St. Francis Xavier is paraded through the streets. Music fills the air, special Masses are celebrated, cultural programs unfold, and the entire community—Catholic and beyond—participates in this sacred festival.
During these days, the cathedral becomes a place of intense spiritual activity: pilgrims offer petitions for healing, guidance, and miracles; others return in thanksgiving for favors already received; and all unite in celebrating the legacy of a saint who gave everything for the Gospel.
The highlight of the celebration is the magnificent car procession, where a beautifully decorated chariot carrying the statue of St. Francis Xavier is paraded through the streets. Music fills the air, special Masses are celebrated, cultural programs unfold, and the entire community—Catholic and beyond—participates in this sacred festival.
During these days, the cathedral becomes a place of intense spiritual activity: pilgrims offer petitions for healing, guidance, and miracles; others return in thanksgiving for favors already received; and all unite in celebrating the legacy of a saint who gave everything for the Gospel.
Living Stones: Bishops and Faithful
St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral is not merely a monument to the past—it is a living church where shepherds have led their flocks faithfully.
First Bishop: Msgr. Lawrence Pereira served as the first Bishop of Kottar from 1930 until his death on January 5, 1938. He was buried within the cathedral.
Fourth Bishop: Mt. Rev. Leon Dharmaraj was also interred at the main altar, his earthly remains resting in the same sacred space where countless Masses have been offered.
The cathedral continues as the mother church of the Diocese of Kottar, which was carved from the Diocese of Kollam in 1930 thanks to the recommendation of Bishop Aloysius Maria Benziger, OCD.
St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral is not merely a monument to the past—it is a living church where shepherds have led their flocks faithfully.
First Bishop: Msgr. Lawrence Pereira served as the first Bishop of Kottar from 1930 until his death on January 5, 1938. He was buried within the cathedral.
Fourth Bishop: Mt. Rev. Leon Dharmaraj was also interred at the main altar, his earthly remains resting in the same sacred space where countless Masses have been offered.
The cathedral continues as the mother church of the Diocese of Kottar, which was carved from the Diocese of Kollam in 1930 thanks to the recommendation of Bishop Aloysius Maria Benziger, OCD.
The Cathedral Today: A Beacon of Faith
Modern pilgrims arriving at St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral encounter more than historical significance. They experience:
- Spiritual Power: A palpable sense of the sacred pervades every corner
- Architectural Beauty: The harmonious blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Indian styles
- Universal Welcome: The cathedral embraces all who come seeking God
- Sacred Tombs: The resting places of both St. Devasahayam Pillai and faithful bishops
- Active Parish Life: Daily Masses, devotions, and sacraments continue uninterrupted
The cathedral is easily accessible, located just 650 meters from Nagercoil Railway Station in the heart of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu.
Modern pilgrims arriving at St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral encounter more than historical significance. They experience:
- Spiritual Power: A palpable sense of the sacred pervades every corner
- Architectural Beauty: The harmonious blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Indian styles
- Universal Welcome: The cathedral embraces all who come seeking God
- Sacred Tombs: The resting places of both St. Devasahayam Pillai and faithful bishops
- Active Parish Life: Daily Masses, devotions, and sacraments continue uninterrupted
The cathedral is easily accessible, located just 650 meters from Nagercoil Railway Station in the heart of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu.
Lessons from a Sacred Legacy
What can this cathedral teach us today?
What can this cathedral teach us today?
The Power of Witness
St. Francis Xavier's courage in standing with a cross against an invading army reminds us that faith is not passive. His three years of missionary work in this region resulted in thousands of conversions and the establishment of a Christian community that endures nearly 500 years later.
St. Francis Xavier's courage in standing with a cross against an invading army reminds us that faith is not passive. His three years of missionary work in this region resulted in thousands of conversions and the establishment of a Christian community that endures nearly 500 years later.
The Call to Martyrdom
St. Devasahayam Pillai's journey from palace official to martyr illustrates that discipleship may cost us everything—and that the cost is worth paying. His witness led to mass conversions in the interior villages of Kanyakumari District, proving that blood shed for Christ becomes seed for the Church.
St. Devasahayam Pillai's journey from palace official to martyr illustrates that discipleship may cost us everything—and that the cost is worth paying. His witness led to mass conversions in the interior villages of Kanyakumari District, proving that blood shed for Christ becomes seed for the Church.
Cultural Synthesis
The cathedral's architecture demonstrates that faith transcends cultural boundaries while respecting and incorporating local beauty. The stone mandap isn't a compromise—it's an affirmation that Christ came for all peoples and can be worshiped authentically within every culture.
The cathedral's architecture demonstrates that faith transcends cultural boundaries while respecting and incorporating local beauty. The stone mandap isn't a compromise—it's an affirmation that Christ came for all peoples and can be worshiped authentically within every culture.
Persevering Faith
Through wars, persecutions, natural disasters, and centuries of change, this cathedral has stood. Protected by God and preserved by the faithful—both Christian and Hindu—it reminds us that what God establishes, no power can destroy.
Through wars, persecutions, natural disasters, and centuries of change, this cathedral has stood. Protected by God and preserved by the faithful—both Christian and Hindu—it reminds us that what God establishes, no power can destroy.
A Personal Invitation
St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral, Kottar, is not a museum. It is a living encounter with the communion of saints, a place where heaven bends low to meet earth, where prayers rise like incense, and where miracles still occur.
Whether you come seeking healing, offering thanksgiving, thirsting for peace, or simply wanting to stand where saints have stood—you are welcome. The doors are open. The tomb of a martyr awaits your prayers. The legacy of an apostle invites your devotion.
Come and experience why generations have called this sacred place home. Come and discover for yourself why St. Francis Xavier of Kottar is known as the Granter of All Favors.
Practical Information:
- Location: Kottar, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
- Distance: 650 meters from Nagercoil Railway Station
- Annual Feast: November 24 - December 3
- Daily Masses: Contact the cathedral for current schedule
- Accessibility: Well-maintained and accessible for all visitors
"What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his very life?" — Cathedral Motto (Matthew 16:26)
May St. Francis Xavier and St. Devasahayam Pillai intercede for all who come to this sacred place, that we may have the courage to witness boldly, the grace to endure faithfully, and the joy to celebrate eternally.
Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen.
St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral, Kottar, is not a museum. It is a living encounter with the communion of saints, a place where heaven bends low to meet earth, where prayers rise like incense, and where miracles still occur.
Whether you come seeking healing, offering thanksgiving, thirsting for peace, or simply wanting to stand where saints have stood—you are welcome. The doors are open. The tomb of a martyr awaits your prayers. The legacy of an apostle invites your devotion.
Come and experience why generations have called this sacred place home. Come and discover for yourself why St. Francis Xavier of Kottar is known as the Granter of All Favors.
Practical Information:
- Location: Kottar, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
- Distance: 650 meters from Nagercoil Railway Station
- Annual Feast: November 24 - December 3
- Daily Masses: Contact the cathedral for current schedule
- Accessibility: Well-maintained and accessible for all visitors
"What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his very life?" — Cathedral Motto (Matthew 16:26)
May St. Francis Xavier and St. Devasahayam Pillai intercede for all who come to this sacred place, that we may have the courage to witness boldly, the grace to endure faithfully, and the joy to celebrate eternally.
Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen.
- St. Francis Xavier’s Chapel: A hallowed space in Kottar where St. Francis Xavier prayed, hosting Eucharistic Adoration from morning to evening on weekdays.
- Main Altar: Consecrated to St. Francis Xavier, embellished with 24-carat gold.
- Holy Tomb: The sacred resting place of Saint Devasahayam Pillai.
- Venerated Relics: Treasured relics of St. Francis Xavier, St. Ignatius Loyola, and Saint Devasahayam Pillai are preserved within the sanctuary.
