How did caste distinctions affect Christian communities in India?

Caste distinctions have significantly influenced Indian Christian communities, where social stratification often persists based on the caste membership held by an individual or their ancestors at the time of conversion. While Indian Christian society is organized by geography and denomination, caste remains an overriding factor in social interaction.1

Historically, the impact of caste varied:
* Syrian Christians: Tracing their origins to St. Thomas, many were of high birth and maintained a mid-rank status in society after converting.1
* European Missions: When missionaries began converting lower-caste fisherfolk in the 16th century, some figures, such as Robert de Nobili, attempted to accommodate existing social hierarchies to gain acceptance among the upper classes.1
* Protestant Influence: In the 19th century, Protestant missionaries often focused on social reform, leading to a high number of converts from the lowest social classes.1

Today, while caste distinctions are gradually breaking down, they still influence community life. Although members of different castes may worship together, they generally do not intermarry, and in some Catholic churches, members of different castes continue to sit apart.1