Designed by iconic architect Laurie Baker, the cathedral has a temple-like exterior but a conventional church interior.
The cathedral’s interior has a depiction of biblical themes in stained glass.
The stained glass images depict the story of the Good Samaritan, The Prodigal Son, The Parable of the 10 Virgins, Zacchaeus, Parables of the Lost Sheep and Coins, the Rich Man and Lazarus, and the Last Judgment; important incidents in the life of Jesus from birth until the resurrection.
In response to the call of the Second Vatican Council to regain the cultural heritage of the eastern churches, Bishop Mar Athanasios invited Laurie Baker to design and build a new cathedral in the tradition and culture of Kerala.
The circular structure of the church had 12 pillars symbolising the 12 apostles of Christ.