Vellonie Pastorate

Historical Background

The CSI Vellonie Pastorate is part of the Anamalai region of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese. It comprises two congregations: Holy Peter’s Church, Vellonie, and Holy Michael’s Church, Old Valparai. The pastorate was formed in 1997, when it was separated from the Iyerpadi Pastorate. Rev. Paul Rathinam served as its first pastor and pastorate leader.

Holy Peter’s Church, Vellonie

The congregation at first held its worship and church activities in estate school premises. A new church building was subsequently built in the Lower Division of Vellonie. On 17 August 1991, the church was dedicated under the name Holy Peter’s Church by Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. R. Paulraj. The building was later extended and rededicated on 26 April 1998.

Holy Michael’s Church, Old Valparai

A new church building was established at Old Valparai to serve the Christian community in the settlement. It was dedicated on 10 May 2005 under the name Holy Michael’s Church by Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. James Srinivasan. The church continues to serve as a place of worship and fellowship for the local congregation.

Pastoral Ministry and Missionary Service

The Vellonie congregation has contributed to the wider ministry of the Church through members who entered pastoral ministry, among them Rev. Gnanaponnaiyan, Rev. S. Chinnapparaj, Rev. P. Selvaraj, Rev. D. Sureshkumar, Rev. S. Nathaniel and Rev. Suganthi. Members of the congregation have also served in various missionary organisations and initiatives.

A Continuing Legacy

Since its formation in 1997, the CSI Vellonie Pastorate has continued to grow as a distinct congregation within the Anamalai region. The pastorate marked its Silver Jubilee in 2022, commemorating 25 years of its ministry. Its two churches remain centres of worship, fellowship and Christian witness among the hill communities.

The pastorate continues its ministry as part of the mission of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese.