Sholayar Nagar Pastorate

The Christian witness in the Anamalai hills grew through the missionary work and congregational life of the Church among the people living in the hill and plantation communities. The formation of the Church of South India on 27 September 1947 brought together Anglican and Wesleyan Methodist congregations in the region. The Christian communities of the Anamalai area continued to develop within the wider ministry of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese.

Historical Background

When the Diocese was organised, the wider ecclesiastical area included the regions of Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur and Dharapuram. On 17 November 1969, the Anamalai area was organised as a distinct ecclesiastical region. At that time, five principal congregations formed its foundation: Valparai Town, Mudis, Sholayar Nagar, Karamalai and Ayyampadi. Sholayar Nagar was among these early congregations and has continued its ministry as part of the Anamalai Christian community.

The Sholayar Nagar Congregation

Rev. S. Paul Theodore Iyer served as the first presbyter of the Sholayar Nagar congregation. Under the guidance of successive ministers and through the commitment of its members, the congregation developed into a wider fellowship of churches serving families across the surrounding settlements.

The pastorate comprises seven congregations: Holy Andrew’s Church, Solaiyar Medu; Christ the Lord Church, Manjakkapparai; Christ the Lord Church, Veshakkalmudi; St. Peter’s Church, Urulikkal I; St. Mark’s Church, Urulikkal II; St. Paul’s Church, Pudhukadu; and St. John’s Church, Kallaanapathal. Together, these congregations provide places of worship, prayer, fellowship and pastoral care for the people of the Anamalai hills.

Pastoral Care and Community Service

The ministry of the pastorate extends beyond regular worship to the care and support of people across the estate communities. Its congregations have sought to respond to the needs of children, widows, persons with disabilities and older persons. Families in remote settlements face challenges in accessing healthcare and other essential services. Through pastoral concern, community support and practical assistance, the Church continues to stand alongside these families.

The work of the pastorate has been sustained by successive presbyters, church workers, office-bearers and members of the congregations. Their collective service has contributed to the spiritual life, fellowship and community engagement of the seven churches.

Continuing the Mission

The CSI Sholayar Nagar Pastorate remains part of the Anamalai region of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese. Rooted in the faith of the early congregations and strengthened by generations of Christian families, it continues its witness through worship, evangelism, pastoral care and community service.