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.