Two models of conversion, exemplified by two missionary experiences in Southern India in the 16th and 17th centuries, are confronted in this article. The community model is illustrated by the collective evangelization of the Parava by St François Xavier. In this case, the whole community was converted and had to redefine its identity as a caste in Southern India in terms of the Christian rituals. The Parava fishermen interpreted the support offered more or less directly by the Portuguese as further encouragement. Unlike the aforementioned type, the new mission of Madurai, founded by Roberto Nobili, was based on Christian universalistic principles and laid emphasis on the individual and intellectual conversions. Nobili aimed particularly at converting members of the political and religious elites. In the segmented political context of the time, and also because of the tradition of religious pluralism, the "religious market" remained open, allowing all kinds of local adaptations of the Christian doctrine, but it was never in keeping with the universalistic scheme of conversion.