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Meghalaya

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

Cathedral Catholic Church, Shillong India 25 December 2018 - Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, named after mother Mary of Jesus Christ, first church of Shillong built in Gothic architectural style
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Cathedral Catholic Church, Shillong India 25 December 2018 - Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, named after mother Mary of Jesus Christ, first church of Shillong built in Gothic architectural style
map

January

2.2 - 18.6 °C

February

3.7 - 21.2 °C

March

6.8 - 25.6 °C

April

10.1 - 27.1 °C

May

11.8 - 27.0 °C

June

14.7 - 27.1 °C

July

16.3 - 27.4 °C

August

16.2 - 27.3 °C

September

14.8 - 26.9 °C

October

10.9 - 25.2 °C

November

7.1 - 22.8 °C

December

4.0 - 20.1 °C

Major Airports :

Shillong Airport (SHL), Shillong

Nearest Railway Station :

Guwahati Railway Station (GHY)

Major Airports :

Shillong Airport (SHL), Shillong

A sanctuary of faith and serenity

As one of Shillong's crowning achievements, its Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians provides spiritual solace and guidance for all those who visit it. Serving as Mother Church for Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong and drawing worshipers of all faiths alike to experience its profound tranquillity within sacred walls, it stands not only as a testament to Christian history in north India but also leaves an indelible mark upon all who enter its doors. As largest cathedral in this region it exudes grandeur while conveying spirituality - leaving an indelible impression on all who enter!

A divine creation

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians stands as an inspiring testament to its community's unyielding faith and resilience. Established by Salvatorians - German missionaries affiliated with Society of Divine Saviour - in 1913, its remarkable tale encapsulates their perseverance and unyielding dedication. As the Apostolic Prefecture of Assam was home to its inaugural Catholic Cathedral Church, its significance to its growing Catholic community in Assam was immense. Unfortunately, its original wooden structure known as Church of Divine Saviour succumbed to fire in 1936. Yet the faithful were determined not to let that stop them and set out on an ambitious project to build a new cathedral that would serve as a beacon of faith and resilience.

The cathedral that stands today fuses Gothic and Romanesque elements into one cohesive space, adding stained-glass windows that bring celestial beauty into the interior space. Furthermore, it features a magnificent high altar as well as several side altars for worshipping, reflecting, and connecting to divinity.

Tales of devotion

Grotto Church stands as an impressive testament to the creativity and devotion of its community, adding an additional sense of mystique and inviting visitors to explore its tranquil depths.

Within the cathedral stands Mary, mother of Jesus. Adorned with delicate flowers and flickering candles, her statue serves as a central point of devotion and symbol of Catholic faith, inspiring awe while providing access to divine guidance for those seeking solace or guidance.

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians holds an important position within its local community. It acts as the seat of Metropolitan Archbishop of Shillong and covers East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts. With 35 church districts under its care, known as Parishes, it acts as an oasis of spirituality serving its faith-filled flock.

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Experience
Witness Shillong's cultural kaleidoscope

Thoughtful mementos and enriching activities

Find keepsakes that honour Catholic symbols with timeless souvenirs from religious stores or cathedral gift shops. Rosaries have long been revered symbols of devotion. Find one at either your local cathedral gift shop or nearby religious stores as an everlasting token. Religious medals featuring saints or religious figures serve as tangible reminders of your spiritual journey. For more personal keepsakes, consider Bibles, devotional books or prayer books which you will treasure over time.

A transcendent experience

Shillong Peak: Make the trek up Shillong's highest point and be rewarded with breath-taking panoramic views of rolling hills and verdant valleys, witnessing nature unfold in front of your very eyes.

Ward's Lake: Come unwind at this tranquil artificial lake surrounded by an exquisite garden, perfect for picnicking and boating - or simply taking time to appreciate your surroundings.

Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Step back in time at this captivating museum to discover heritage and culture from all corners of this incredible land. Discover its long and rich history through art forms such as textile weaving and crafts production while deepening your appreciation of this diverse region's cultural legacy.

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians invites you to experience a profound connection with your spirituality while immersing yourself in Shillong's diverse cultural fabric. Step inside this sacred sanctuary and let its peaceful atmosphere envelop your soul - carrying its essence with you wherever life takes you and reminding yourself of its transformative power.