Ayyampadi Pastorate

Historical Beginnings

The CSI Ayyampadi Pastorate is in the Anamalai hill region, an area known for its natural beauty and distinctive hill communities. The Christian witness in this region developed through the ministry of the Church among the people living in the tea estates and surrounding settlements. In 1969, when the Anamalai area was organised separately, Ayyampadi was among the first five congregations in the region. Rev. Kaat Veerathevan served as its first pastor.

Growth of the Congregations

The Ayyampadi ministry gradually extended across a wide area, covering settlements around Lower Loiyar, Old Valparai, Villoni, Rottikadai, Ayyampadi, Kavarkal, Waterfalls, Waverly, Kattampaarai, Upper Aliyar, Attakatti and Navamalai. The area served by the pastorate extended for about 50 kilometres, and at one stage included 17 worship centres.

Over the years, the congregation grew considerably. Its church building was extended and renovated twice to accommodate the growing worshipping community. The expansion of the church and its ministry enabled the Christian witness to reach more people in the hill settlements. The wider Ayyampadi ministry later developed into three congregational areas: Ayyampadi, Villoni and Waterfalls. In the course of its history, 21 pastors served in the ministry.

Churches and Milestones

St. John’s Church, Ayyampadi, is an important part of the pastorate’s heritage. Its milestones include a Golden Jubilee celebration led by Rev. Paul Rathinam and a 75th-anniversary celebration led by Rev. D. Sureshkumar. The church has continued to grow in its witness and congregational life, and it marked its 80th year in 2022.

A Pentecostal place of worship was established in the Ropeway area in 1964, during the period of Rev. Joseph Jeyaraj’s leadership. A new church building was under construction there in 2022, reflecting the continuing growth of Christian worship in the region.

Continuing the Mission

From its beginnings as one of the early congregations in the Anamalai region, the CSI Ayyampadi Pastorate has grown through the dedication of successive pastors and the faith of its members. Its ministry continues among the hill and estate communities through worship, pastoral care, fellowship and Christian witness. The pastorate remains part of the wider mission of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese.