The Church and the Parish

The Syro Malabar Catholics living in and around Nagercoil had to attend liturgical services and receive the sacraments in the Latin Rite until 1985. But they were keen on retaining their distinct religious and cultural identity. It was in such circumstances that Rev.Fr.Damian Thuruthumaliyil C.M.I., took up residence at Bharathi Nagar, Nagercoil – 2, organized the Syrian Catholic Community of this locality and rendered them pastoral care in their own Rite from 1985 to 1989. Under his guidance they submitted a memorandum to the Archbishop of Changanachery to provide them with a church and a vicar. His Excellency took a sympathetic view of their demand and bought a piece of land on A.R.P.Camp Road for this purpose.

Blessed Alphonsa Church was blessed on 10th September,1989 by Rev.Fr.Mathew Vakkayil, the then Syro Malabar Catholic Christians' Mission Co-ordinator of Kanyakumari District. This is the first Church in Tamil Nadu in the name of St.Alphonsa. Later on the church building was renovated in the Syrian style and was consecrated by His Excellency, Mar Joseph Powathil, Archbishop of Changanachery on 13 th August 1993.

In the beginning, the parish had 15 families as members. By 2008, the number of families has gone up to 85. When the Syro Malabar Diocese of Thuckalay was erected in November 1996, the church came under its jurisdiction and episcepal care.

The Vicars

The first parish priest was Rev.Fr.Mathew Kuzhinjalil. He served the parish from 1989 to 1992. Rev.Fr.Mathew Odalani succeeded him and served the parish for one year. Rev,Fr.Thomas Powathuparambil took charge as parish priest on 17 th February 1993 and continues to serve till date. Rev.Fr. Peter Kizhakkiyil rendered a years dedicated service as Asst. Vicar in 1995.