How Christianity Found Its Way to India: A History of Early Christian Missions

Christianity has often been perceived as a foreign religion imported to India, primarily by missionaries from the West. However, the history of Christianity in India is much richer and more complex, dating back centuries, with multiple waves of missionary work and various communities establishing their presence over time.

The Advent of St. Thomas Christians

Christianity first came to India through the efforts of one of Jesus's apostles, St. Thomas, in the 1st century AD. According to local legend, St. Thomas landed in Kerala, a southern state in India, in 52 AD, bringing the message of Jesus. However, the accuracy of this claim is debatable, as it is rooted in folklore rather than historical records. Nevertheless, the antiquity of these Christian communities in Kerala is a well-established fact, and their influence on Indian Christianity remains significant.

St. Thomas Christians

St. Thomas Christians, also known as Syrian Christians, trace their origins back to the arrival of St. Thomas. They established strong roots in Kerala and spread Christianity through a network of missionaries and communities. These early Christians adopted the Syriac language and were part of the larger Church of the East, which had significant centers of learning and religious activity in the Middle East.

The Church of the East was a distinct branch of early Christianity that spread beyond the West, influencing communities in regions like Iran, Turkey, and parts of Central Asia. They established a center of learning in Edessa, where many ancient manuscripts were translated and preserved. This intellectual exchange was fostered by frequent communication between Edessa, Antioch, and Kerala. Despite facing persecution from Zoroastrian rulers, the Church of the East managed to establish a robust presence in Kerala.

Latin Catholics and Jesuits

The second major wave of Christianity in India is represented by Latin Catholic communities. Their influence began with the arrival of Jesuit missionaries, particularly St. Francis Xavier, in the 16th century. Xavier’s arrival in Goa, a Portuguese colony, was followed by extensive missionary work in southern India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Tamil Nadu. This led to the conversion of significant numbers of locals, particularly Goud Sarasvat Brahmins, and the establishment of a substantial Catholic community, especially in Goa.

Baptists, Lutherans, and Other Reformists

From the early 18th century onwards, Protestant groups began to establish a presence in India. German Lutherans, such as those from the Serampore College, began missionary work and translated the Bible into local languages. The East India Company initially banned missionary activities, but this ban was lifted in the 19th century, allowing for a significant expansion of Protestant ministries. Particularly successful were the work done in Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, and the Garo hills. These efforts led to almost the entire Northeast region of India becoming predominantly Christian.

After India gained independence, these various Protestant communities merged to form the Church of North India and the Church of South India.

Latter Evangelicals and Fundamentalist Groups

With the global decline of traditional Protestant groups, modern evangelical movements have become more prominent. These movements, often associated with the 'Bible Belt' in the United States, continue to actively propagate Christianity in parts of India. Stores like Jehovah's Witnesses, Pentecostals, and others have also made significant inroads, particularly through the internet and social media.

One notable example is the case of a man from the US who attempted to introduce Christianity to a new region in India in 2018. The outcome of this effort was unexpected for the missionary, as the locals introduced him to Jesus instead.

In summary, the history of Christianity in India is a tapestry of diverse movements and cultures, each contributing to the rich fabric of Indian religious and cultural history. From the early days of St. Thomas to the modern Evangelicals, Christian influence in India continues to evolve, shaping the lives of millions.