Srivaikundam is home to one of the most ancient and historically significant churches in South India, with a spiritual legacy spanning over 400 years. The roots of this sacred shrine date back to the early 17th century when Jesuit missionaries from Punnaikayal ventured into the interior regions to spread the Christian faith. Among the many churches they established, Srivaikundam and Thirukazhoor were among the earliest, built in 1600 as part of their evangelical mission.
On July 24, 1600, the Jesuit Provincial, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Pimenta, officially blessed the church at Srivaikundam, marking the beginning of a long-standing Christian presence in the region. The original structure was modest in size but held immense spiritual significance. It was uniquely built in the shape of a cross, a rare architectural feature at the time. A large stone cross was placed beside the altar, leading the local community to refer to the church as ‘Cruz Koil’ (Church of the Cross). This made it the first interior church in South India to adopt a cross-shaped design, symbolizing the profound faith and dedication of the missionaries and their followers.
By 1644, Srivaikundam functioned as a substation under the Thirukazhoor mission, which was the central hub for Christian activities in the region. However, the church faced immense challenges in 1774 when the Jesuit Congregation was suppressed worldwide due to political and religious conflicts. With the Jesuits forced out, the administration of Srivaikundam was transferred to the Diocese of Cochin, and the church was taken care of by Kathimars of the Syrian Rite and priests from Goa. Despite these hardships, the faith of the local Christian community remained steadfast, ensuring that the church continued to serve as a place of worship.
Following the reinstatement of the Jesuit Order, the Madurai Mission was entrusted to the Jesuits of the Thulus Province in France, bringing renewed missionary efforts to Srivaikundam. One of the most prominent missionaries of this period was Rev. Fr. Louise Durange, who tirelessly served the community. His dedication and close bond with the people earned him the affectionate titles ‘Chinnasamy’ and ‘Michaelnather’. His legacy remains deeply ingrained in the history of the church, as he passed away in Srivaikundam and was buried inside the church, a rare honor bestowed upon him in recognition of his service.
| Name | Years |
| Fr. Gnanapragasam D. | 1938-1941 |
| Fr. Singarayar K,O. | 1942-1952 |
| Fr. Immanuel Diaz | 1952-1959 |
| Fr. Fernando L.X. | 1959-1961 |
| Fr. Methodius N. | 1961-1968 |
| Fr. Paul Alangaram | 1968-1969 |
| Fr. Ignatius R.X | 1969-1970 |
| Fr. Jesu Arulappan | 1970-1975 |
| Fr. Viladmir Rayan | 1975-1978 |
| Fr. Irudayaraj M.J. | 1978-1981 |
| Fr. Alphonse D.S. | 1981-1984 |
| Fr. Irudayaraj V. | 1984-1988 |
| Fr.Cetricbrish. | 1988-1993 |
| Fr. Joseph G. | 1993-1997 |
| Fr. Victor M.G. | 1997-2001 |
| Fr. Benson | 2001-2002 |
| Fr. Mascarones | 2002-2003 |
| Fr. Benjamin D’Souza | 2003-2007 |
| Fr. Jeyakar. | 2007-2012 |
| Fr.S.Ravindran Fernando. | 2012 |
As the Christian community in Srivaikundam grew, the need for an independent parish became evident. On December 31, 1938, Srivaikundam was officially declared a separate parish, marking a new chapter in its spiritual journey. The first appointed parish priest was Rev. Fr. D. Gnanapragasam, who played a key role in strengthening the local congregation and enhancing the church’s religious activities.
In 1989, during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the parish, a significant renovation project was undertaken under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Cedric Peeris. To enhance the beauty and functionality of the church, a mandapam (portico) was constructed and attached to the church’s facade, providing additional space for worshippers. This renovation not only preserved the church’s historical essence but also adapted it to accommodate the growing needs of the congregation.
Another important milestone in the church’s history was the construction of a new presbytery, initiated by Rev. Fr. Viladmir Rayen. This new structure was officially blessed on July 24, 1977, by Bishop Ambrose Mathalaimuthu, further strengthening the infrastructure of the parish and supporting its pastoral mission.
Today, Srivaikundam’s Cruz Koil stands as a remarkable testament to four centuries of faith, resilience, and missionary dedication. From its humble beginnings as a small cross-shaped church to its evolution into a thriving parish, the church has played a pivotal role in nurturing the spiritual lives of countless believers. Its rich history, marked by the contributions of Jesuit missionaries, periods of hardship, and unwavering devotion from the local community, continues to inspire and uphold its sacred legacy.
With its deep-rooted historical significance and a steadfast commitment to faith, Srivaikundam’s Cruz Koil remains a beacon of divine grace, welcoming generations of worshippers to seek peace, solace, and blessings within its hallowed walls.
Cruz kovil Street,
Srivaikundam Tuticorin Dt. 628 601
Rev. Fr. Flavian
Mobile: +91 63806 51393
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