Vettukad Church – Historic Christian Church in Kerala
Madre de Deus Church or The Mother of God Church, popularly known as Vettukad Church is a renowned Christian pilgrimage site that belongs to the Latin Catholic Archdiocese of Trivandrum. Dating back 500 years, Vettukad Church is situated in Vettukad, in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.
Vettukad Church - Kerala
The church has evolved into a significant center of Christian faith ever since the visit of St. Francis Xavier sometime between 1543 and 1547 C.E. People from across Kerala and beyond, irrespective of caste or creed, flock to the church to seek blessings from Christ the King. Warmly welcomes worshippers from diverse religious backgrounds without any discrimination, this sacred haven dedicated to the Mother of God becomes a symbol of unity, transcending religious boundaries.
Vettukad Church is renowned for its Feast of Christ the King, a ten-day celebration that begins on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, corresponding to the third Sunday of November each year. The festivities include various religious ceremonies and culminate in a grand procession with the statue of Christ the King on the penultimate day. The final day features a feast, along with a high mass conducted by the Archbishop of Trivandrum Archdiocese and other religious rituals.
Mass Timings
Sunday: 6 AM, 8 AM (English), 5 PM
Monday to Thursday: 6.15 AM, 5.30 PM
Friday: 6.15 AM, 11 AM, 5.30 PM, 7 PM
Saturday: 6.15 AM, 5.30 PM
Specialty
Vettukad Church welcomes people from all religious backgrounds without discrimination.
Dress Code
There is no special dress code for visiting Vettukad Church. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully while visiting the shrine.
Festivals
'Feast of Christ the King' or Vettukad Feast
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport, 3.1 Km away from Vettukad Church. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the church.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Kochuveli Railway Station, 3.2 Km away from Vettukad Church. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the church.
By Road :Vettukad Church is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the church.