Devanur Pudur Pastorate

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous works among all the peoples.” — Psalm 96:3

The CSI Devanur Pudur Pastorate is part of the CSI Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese and is situated in the Udumalpet region. Its history is connected with the wider Christian missionary presence in the Anamalai and Valparai areas. During the nineteenth century, British enterprises developed plantations in the Anamalai hills, growing crops such as tea, coffee, cardamom and pepper. This brought missionary workers into contact with the people living and working in the hill settlements and the foothill villages around them.

Historical Background

As roads and access to the hill settlements were limited, missionary work also developed in the foothills. Angalakurichi became one of the places associated with this early Christian outreach. Missionaries and evangelists travelled among the local communities, shared the Christian faith and supported the formation of worshipping groups. Missionary workers, including Rev. O. T. Cole, contributed to the development of the Christian witness in the area.

The Christian work gradually extended to Devanur Pudur and neighbouring settlements. In 1986, the Devanur Pudur Pastorate was formed following its separation from the Udumalpet Pastorate. At that time, Angalakurichi was an important centre of the earlier missionary work. The pastorate’s development was sustained by ministers and church workers, including Sundar Singh, S. Chinnapparaj, Ponnaraj and Arulraj, who served the congregations as pastors.

A significant phase in the development of the church at Angalakurichi came during the ministry of Rev. Arulraj. The CSI Immanuel Church, Angalakurichi, was renovated, and the foundation for the renewed building was laid. The renovation and the work connected with it continued during 2006–2009. The congregation, which had earlier gathered in small numbers, grew steadily: approximately 20 people worshipped together at the time of the renovation, and the congregation later grew to around 200 worshippers.

The growth of the congregation reflects the commitment of local Christian families, the ministry of successive pastors and the support of the Diocese. The development of the church building provided a more suitable place for worship and fellowship and strengthened the congregation’s role in the surrounding community.

The pastorate’s continuing life has been shaped by the service of ministers, evangelists and lay members who have nurtured Christian faith across the area. Its history reflects the expansion of missionary witness from the Anamalai foothills into the villages, and the steady growth of congregational life in Devanur Pudur and Angalakurichi.

Continuing Witness

Today, the CSI Devanur Pudur Pastorate continues its ministry through worship, pastoral care, Christian nurture and fellowship among its congregations. With gratitude for the missionaries, pastors and local believers who laid its foundations, the pastorate remains committed to strengthening faith and serving the communities entrusted to its care.