Kattoor stands as a symbol of faith and unity, illuminated by the enduring spirit of survival along the coast and the miraculous protection of Saint Michael. Even during times when the public spread of Christianity was met with hostility, evangelization continued secretly in areas like Kattoor, with the region serving as a covert hub for the Arthunkal mission. In 1589, during the Portuguese missionary era, Father Phoenicio erected a cross at Kattoor on the southern side of the Senthanthirai Mission Centre. During a conflict between the King of Kochi and the King of Muthadeth, Father Phoenicio and the Jesuits played a pivotal role in mediating a peace treaty. In gratitude, King Muthadeth allowed the construction of a wooden cupola dedicated to Saint Michael at Kattoor.

Following Father Phoenicio’s relocation to Kozhikode, the community endured religious persecutions, including the loss of Christian property. The present-day temple at Kattoor was established in 1619, when Father Phoenicio returned, renovated the old chapel, and expanded it. Over the years, the church faced challenges due to political and religious unrest, but the community found solutions and support during difficult times. The church was rebuilt in 1760 on the site of the current cemetery.

As the population grew and more people sought refuge in Kattoor, the need for a larger church arose. Contributions from the local fishermen, the community, and others played a crucial role in funding the construction of the church. The current church, built in the 1930s, stands as a testament to the strong support of its believers. The church has undergone many improvements, including the addition of the altar in 1890. Devotees from far and wide gather at the church, especially for the forty-hour worship and the Passover celebrations, which are deeply cherished by the faithful.

Saint Chavara Kuriakose Elias, along with Nidhirikkal Manikathanar, studied at the priestly training center established around 1860 by Reverend Father Peter Presentation in Kattoor. Thanks to the efforts of Father Sebastian Presentation, a convent for nuns was founded on January 29, 1924, becoming the mother house of the Visitation Congregation. The building initially used for priestly studies later transformed into a church and was eventually elevated to a Malayalam middle school in 1910, which later became a government school in Kalavoor.

Simultaneously, on May 7, 1920, Father Sebastian established a primary school for girls named Holy Family School, which was upgraded to a high school in 1964. Today, Kattoor Holy Family Higher Secondary School stands as a beacon of educational and cultural excellence, spreading literacy across generations. The dispensary founded on July 19, 1969, under Father Wilson Odathankal, evolved into a hospital by July 1, 1971. The Visitation Sisters’ community continues to provide invaluable care to patients in the hospital.

Over time, Kattoor parish has flourished, growing into a community of 1,238 families and 40 small Christian groups. It has given rise to two new parishes: Cheriyapozhi Christurajan Church and Korthassery St. Vincent Pallotti Church. The parish has become a center of spiritual and social growth, with the Visitation Sisters’ schools contributing significantly to the region’s educational progress. The people of Kattoor have excelled in various cultural and artistic fields. Guided by the blessings of Saint Michael the Archangel, The Kattoor parish continues to thrive and make strides toward progress.