Understanding the Difference Between Roman and Latin Catholics in Kerala

Kerala, known for its rich history and diverse cultures, is home to a significant Catholic community. This community is divided into two main groups: Roman Catholics and Latin Catholics. While these terms might sound confusing, understanding the distinctions between them can provide valuable insights into the religious and cultural dynamics of this ancient Christian community.

Definitions

Roman Catholics in Kerala: This term generally refers to Catholics who follow the Roman Rite, which is the most widely practiced liturgy in the Catholic Church.

Latin Catholics in Kerala: This term applies to Catholics who follow the Latin Rite as well, making the distinction in this context more about governance and identity rather than liturgical practices.

Liturgy

Roman Catholics in Kerala typically celebrate the Mass in the Latin Rite using the Roman Missal and other Roman liturgical texts. Similarly, Latin Catholics in Kerala also celebrate the Mass according to the Latin Rite, highlighting the overlap in liturgical practices.

Church Governance

While both groups use the Latin Rite in their liturgy, there are differences in church governance. Roman Catholics in Kerala are part of the Latin Church, under the direct jurisdiction of the Pope in Rome. Latin Catholics in Kerala, on the other hand, are governed by the Latin Bishops of Kerala and are part of the Archdiocese of Verapoly or other dioceses in the region.

Cultural Practices

Despite the shared liturgical practices, cultural practices can differ. Roman Catholics in Kerala may align more closely with Western traditions, while Latin Catholics may incorporate local customs and traditions into their practices. Both groups, however, are heavily influenced by local traditions in Kerala, showcasing a unique blend of cultural and religious expressions.

Key Points

Overlap

Often, in many contexts, the terms "Roman Catholic" and "Latin Catholic" are used interchangeably. This reflects the overlap in liturgical practices and shared core beliefs within the Catholic faith.

Distinct Identity

However, the distinction between Roman and Latin Catholics in Kerala often lies in the context of church governance and identity. While they share the same liturgical practices, the governance structure provides a unique identity to each group.

Historical Context

The presence of these two distinct groups of Catholics in Kerala can be traced back to the arrival of the Portuguese with Latin Catholic missionaries in the 16th century. This period marked the beginning of significant divisions within the St. Thomas Christian community, one of the oldest Christian communities in India.

Historically, the original Christians in Kerala date back to St. Thomas the Apostle and his companions or to Aramaic Jewish Christians who arrived following the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. The community was closely related to the Church in Persia and followed what we now call the East Syrian Rite.

The arrival of Latin Catholic missionaries in the 16th century led to complex and often tragic divisions within the community. While there have been efforts to reunite all Kerala Christians under the Catholic and Orthodox communion, this remains an ongoing process.

Conclusion

The distinction between Roman and Latin Catholics in Kerala often lies in the context of usage rather than significant theological differences. Both groups share core beliefs of the Catholic faith but may express their faith through different cultural lenses and liturgical practices. Understanding this distinction can help in appreciating the diversity and richness of Catholicism in Kerala, both historically and in the present day.

Related Keywords

Catholicism in Kerala, Roman Catholics, Latin Catholics, Liturgical Practices