A Century of Service

”A Journey Through Marthandam Church's Past”

1. The period between 1958 and 1993 marked a transformative chapter in the history of Marthandam CSI Church. The devoted efforts of the reverends and community leaders during these years helped shape the church's spiritual and infrastructural growth. Through selfless service, leadership, and a commitment to evangelism, they not only nurtured the faith of the congregation but also laid the foundation for future generations. Their contributions in church management, educational development, and community outreach created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and guide the church. The enduring impact of their work remains an essential part of the church's history and mission.

1. Reverends 
2. V. Jothipackiam B.D.,                                         1958 - 1963                         
3. M. Amos, B.A., B.D.,                                           1963 - 1969
4. V.D. Sagayam, M.A.,                                           1968 - 1969
5. S. Dathi B.A., B.D.,                                              1969 – 1973 
6. J. V. Thilakadas,B.A., B.D.                                1971 - 1972
7. S. Selva Nayakam, B.A.,                                    1973 - 1975
8. A.J.M. Kesari, B.A., B.D.,                                   1975 - 1978       
9. C. Samuel B.A., B.D.,                                          1978 - 1983         
10. A. Thureimani B.A., B.D.,                                   1983 - 1988
11. M.I. Kesari M.A., B.D., STM                               1988 - 1993
12.  
13. Rev. V. JOTHIPACKIAM  B.D         

1.                                                                            
2.            Rev. V. Jothipackiam, born on April 22, 1908, in Andithope, was deeply moved by a sermon on Christ’s second coming and had a vision of Heavenly Jerusalem. After completing theological studies in Bangalore, he became an evangelist in Vairagudi and married Devapoo, with whom he had four sons and two daughters. Ordained as a pastor in Anandanadargudi, he helped eliminate drinking among church members. He later worked in Bible training in Erode, studied in England, and returned to serve in various pastoral roles. He was instrumental in bringing people to Christ, organizing conventions, and preaching about the second coming. He later became an independent preacher.
3.  
4. Rev. M. AMOS, B.A., B. D     

1.                                                                                                                                     
2.          During Rev. Amos's tenure as pastor and District Minister of Marthandam District, he made significant contributions to the church. He worked alongside Mr. N. Dennis, M.P., to establish the college in Marthandam. Rev. Amos also supervised the construction of the clock tower steps with the guidance of Mr. Bhanu and the cemetery compound walls with the help of Mr. Joseph Deacon. Under his leadership, the L.M.S. & C.S.I. case was resolved, and the altar communion was introduced. Additionally, gospel work in Panthivilai, Padiyanvilai, and Ayiramthengu was encouraged, with Padiyanvilai officially recognized as a church during his time.
3.  
4. Rev. V. D. SAGAYAM M.A                     

1.                                                          
2.  
3.           Rev. Sagayam was a selfless individual known for his charity work in the Kumari District Archdiocese. He excelled academically, earning a gold medal from Chennai Christian College. His wife, Mrs. Siromani a graduate of the University of Cambridge, supported him in his endeavors. His contributions to the Marthandam Church included reforming the service and beautifying the church complex. Construction of the compound wall and front gate. 
4.  
5. Rev. S.T. DUTHI B.A., B.D       

1.                                                                                
2.  In one of his letters to the congregation, Rev. S.T. Duthi reflects fondly on his time at Marthandam church, a congregation where he served with love and devotion. Upon taking charge in 1969, he was deeply moved by the generosity and enthusiasm of the people, especially in funding church repairs and building the church steps.
3.  
4. Rev. J.V. THILAKADAS, B.A., B.D., M.D.H.,    
5.  

1.    Rev. J.K. Thilakadas  served as a preacher at Marthandam for less than a year, a time that significantly enriched his spiritual life of Marthandam congregation the church’s loving community and their strong support for ministry, which deeply impacted his work. During his tenure, he contributed to various activities including the choir, devotional association, Sunday school, and the Women’s United Association. 
2.  
3. Rev. S. SELVANAYAGAM, B.A., B.D.,             

1.                                                      
2.     Rev. S. Selvanayagam was born on May 20, 1925, in Parisuvaikkal District church, South Kerala. After completing his education at St. Xavier's College and he completed his B.A in Scott Christian College, he became actively involved in politics, representing the Congress Party. A dedicated social worker, he also pursued religious duties, becoming the leader of several congregations, including Karakonam, Kannanamula, and Maruthangode. He was ordained as a priest in 1964, serving various churches, including Marthandam and Neyur. He held leadership roles in the Church’s governance and passed away on June 23, 1990, after 65 years of pastoral work.
3.  
4.  Rev. A.J.M. KESARI M.A.,   

1.         
2.                                                                                 
3.  In one of his letters to the congregation, Rev. A.J.M. Kesari, M.A., reflects with joy on the centenary of the Marthandum congregation, a community close to his heart. Recalls the teachings of Ephesians, emphasizing the role of pastors in guiding believers toward maturity in faith. Inspired by Christ’s mission to save others, he praises the Marthandum Church for its dedication to serving the community 
4.  
5. Rev. C SAMUEL, M.A., B.D.              

1.                                                                   
2. During Rev. C. Samuel's tenure at Marthandam, he oversaw key initiatives, including the foundation and basement of the Sinclair Memorial Hall. He facilitated significant events such as a convention with Rev. Richard Wurmbrand and Rev. Mark Rohrer’s visit, which led to a $5000 donation for a church in Saral. Rev. Samuel's leadership saw the repair of the Marthandam church, the introduction of a Christmas illumination display, and the expansion of gospel work in several villages. He was also instrumental in founding the United Christian Organization, fostering unity and growth within the local Christian community. His period marked a time of spiritual revival and collaboration.
3.  
4. Rev. A. DURAIMANI, B.A., B.D., M.TH.,    
5.  

1.           Rev. A. Duraimani, a member of the Senamvilai church, completed his theological studies at Tirumareiyor College of Theology in 1971. After serving as a pastor in various congregations, including Kumarapuram Thopur, kodupeikkuzhi Kulathuvilai, and Philipspuram, he became the pastor of Maruthancode in 1979. Duraimani later pursued an M.Th. at Madurai Royal Theological College. From 1993, he served as the district pastor at Moolachal church. He diligently managed all worship activities at Marthandam, overseeing Sabbath Schools, prayer groups, and ceremonies. His leadership led to increased offerings and a harmonious relationship with the congregation and staff, contributing to the church's growth.     
2. Rev. M.I. KESARI, M.A., B.D.S.T.M          
3.                                                               
4.  

1.           Rev. M.I. Kesari highlights the Marthandam Church’s significant role as a center of worship and witness, emphasizing its leadership in the Diocese. He prays that the church remains a spiritual powerhouse, overcoming divisions through God’s love and radiating joy to the community. Acknowledging the early contributions of Rev. Sinclair, he reflects on how Marthandam was developed and its importance recognized by the early missionaries. He also remembers the church as the place where his children, Godfrey and Merline, were confirmed. Rev. Kesari hopes the church will continue to grow and be a true example of Christ-like love and service.
2.  
3. CHURCH DEACONS
4.  Mr. P. PAUL       
5.                                                                                      
6.  

1.           Mr. P. Paul was from Vettumani, near Marthandam, and was raised in a family that did not know Christ. However, he accepted Christ and was baptized through the influence of missionaries in the area. With his extensive experience in teaching, he was affectionately called "Paul Vathiyar." He worked as both a P.W.D. and railway contractor, and served as a Deacon in the Marthandam Church for many years. Mr. Paul owned a bullock cart, which he regularly used to attend church. On Sundays, he would travel in the cart, arriving at the church well before the bells rang. He was a compassionate man who provided free eye disease treatment and was always ready to help the poor. Blessed with seven sons and two daughters, he passed away in the Lord at the age of 99.
2.  
3.  
4. Dr. SIMEON FLETCHER

1.                                                                     
2.  
3.           Dr. Simeon Fletcher, son of Rev. William Fletcher, completed his Matriculation in 1888 and pursued medical studies at Neyyoor, graduating in 1893. He served in Neyyoor Hospital for 1½ years before working in Karakonam, where he developed a hospital and founded a local school. From 1901 to 1904, he worked at Mission Hospital, Nellikkakuzhi, and then at Martandam Mission Hospital until 1914. After retiring, he established a private nursing home. A dedicated medical evangelist, Dr. Fletcher was deeply concerned for the poor and initiated several new churches. He was elected Deacon of C.S.I. Marthandam and served as president of Travancore H.M.S. He passed away at 92.
4.  
5. Mr. S. TIMOTHY                   
6.                                                                      
7.  

1.           Mr. Timothy, born on 7-2-1880 in Marthandam, was the youngest son of M. Sebagnanam, a Catechist, and Sarah Sebagnanam, a Mission School teacher. His family was deeply involved in church service, with his brothers serving as pastors, catechists, and deacons. Mr. Timothy taught at the English Middle School from 1904 to 1909 and later worked as a writer in the Mission office. He was also a Deacon and Secretary on the Church Committee for several years. Known for his kindness and dedication to the church, he passed away on 27-8-1963 at 83, leaving a legacy of service.
2.  
3. Mr. B. DEVADASAN        

1.                                                                             
2.  
3.           Mr. P. Devadasan Deacon, born on 29th January 1893 in Marthandam to a Hindu family, walked weekly to Nagercoil for his education at Scott Christian School, where he later accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. At 20, he became an intermediate teacher in a Travancore Government school, serving with excellence. He worked in various places, including Karakonam and Tidanadu, and spent 30 years at Marthandam Government High School, retiring at 55. Afterward, he worked for 10 years as an office writer at Marthandam C.S.I. Girls High School. A dedicated Deacon and accountant, he served the church for 30 years before passing away at 91.
4.  
5. Mr. S. JOSEPH                    

1.                                                           
2.  
3.           He was deeply engaged in the development of the church throughout his life. He served as a Marthandam  C.S.I. church  member from 1947 until his death on April 5, 1973. Additionally, he was an active participant in church leadership, holding positions as a Church Committee Member and a District Council Member of the congregation.
4.  
5. Mr. PAUL CHELLAPA

1.                                                                           
2.          Mr. Paul Chellappa, born in 1897 in Vettumani, Marthandam, was the son of Mr. Paul Vathiar, a long-serving church deacon. From a young age, Paul Chellappa dedicated his life to Christ and actively ministered to children and youth, leading many to Christianity. He worked as a teacher at Bishop Sargent Teachers’ School in Palayang Fort for 35 years and developed close relationships with prominent church leaders, including Archbishop Rev. Archbald and Rev. G.T. Selvin.
3. For years, he served as the secretary of the Tirunelveli Archdiocese’s children’s magazine, Paliya Nesan, and played a key role in training numerous teachers and missionaries who continue to work with children in the Tirunelveli district. Known for his ability to translate sermons from English and Malayalam to Tamil, he also organized pre-school festivals, composed devotional songs, and provided profound spiritual guidance. His approach to parenting balanced discipline with love.
4. Mr. Chellappa's children included his eldest daughter, Mrs. Susilaa Martin of Palayangottai, Mrs. Lillan Egbert in Hyderabad, and Jayasingh Paul, a head teacher at a Kanyakumari Archdiocese Mission High School, as well as the choir leader of Marthandam Church. After retiring in 1959, he returned to Marthandam, where he continued preaching in various congregations, known for his early morning devotions, special children's messages, and introducing nursery rhymes in church services. He passed away on August 20, 1966, leaving a lasting impact on the community and church.
5.  
6. Mr. S.W. FLECTCHER, B.A., L.T.                

1.                                                               
2.  
3.           Mr. S.W. Fletcher made significant contributions to the growth of Marthandam C.S.I. He served as a teacher, headmaster, and inspector of schools, retiring in 1948. After retirement, he continued his service in various roles until 1970, including Deacon, Treasurer, Church Secretary, and Member of the Diocesan Council. He played a key role in establishing the N.M.C. College and founded the L.M.S. Boys School. As an Honorary Judge of the Panchayat Court, he also supported the YMCA's beekeeping initiative. A dedicated member of the H.M.S., he served for forty years, ultimately passing away at the age of 94.
4.  
5. Mr. PAUL EBENEZER
6.              
7.                                                                  

1.            Mr. Paul Ebenezer was born in Vettuvanni, Marthandam. His father Mr. Paul was a teacher and for many years Deacon of the Marthandam Church.  As a student. Paul Ebenezer was quite smart and studious.  After completing his education he went abroad at the early age of 19 years.  He worked for five years in Basar (Iraq) and for twenty three years in Iran British Oil Company.  He was taken three as a prisoner of war in 1941 for seven days by the Iranians.
2.        Then he settled down in Martandam.  He was a very good Tennis and Table Tennis Player he and got a lot of cups and toophies. He served as Deacon and as secretary of the Martandam Church.  He collected money to buy a baby organ for the church and for the boarding school. He formed a tennis club in the Martandam Y.M.C.A. and established weekly prayer meeting in the Y.M.C.A.  He was one of the directors of the Martandam Commercial Bank.  He was also a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Nagercoil.  At Nagercoil, he worked under Dr. A. Nobel, as Office Manager in Putheri Hospital for seven years.  He is noted for his integrity of heart and innocence of hands.  He is a veteran and versatile genious.  In all his dealings,  he worked with probity and uprightness.  He has lived a model life for us to follow and the sweet memories will be cherished for ever and ever.  He was called to eternal rest on 17-7-1975. 
3.  
4.  
5. Mr. A.S. DEVAVARAM    

1.                                                           
2.  
3.          Mr. Devavaram, born on December 21, 1880, in Parachalai, served as a deacon for over 45 years and worked as a secretary. He was the second pastor of Marthandam Church and the headmaster of Marthandam Mission School, where he elevated both male and female schools to vernacular middle school status. He declined a government school headmaster offer to remain in mission service. Retiring in 1937, he continued to serve with dedication. Known for his bold opinions, he passed away on August 20, 1969, at the age of 88. His funeral was held at Marthandam CSI church, with many attending in tribute.
4.  
5. Mr. D. HUBET GEORGE    

1.                                                              
2.  
3.           Mr. D. Hubert George, born on May 18, 1915, was the second son of A.S. Devavaram and Chalammal. His grandfather, A. Samuel, was the second pastor of Marthandam Church. Hubert received his early education at Government English School, Marthandam, and graduated from Scott Christian College, Nagercoil. He served as a deacon for 40 years and as an influential figure in the Marthandam Church. A patriotic individual, he held key positions in the government, including Chief Clerk and Sirashtar. After retirement, he served as a legal advisor and contributed to the study of Tamil Nadu Christianity. He passed away on September 19, 1984, at the age of 69.
4.  
5. Mr.N. SAMUEL NADAR

1.                                                                           
2.           Born into a Hindu family on June 11, 1904, in the village of Aayiram Dengu, as the son of Nadankutty Nadaar and Ishakiyammal, he faced a life-changing event in 1918 when cholera struck his family. Leaving the village, he declared, “If there is a living God to protect me, Christ is the only one,” and moved to Keel Bammam. He married Kamalammal and became involved in the Karupukatti business. He joined Marthandam Church through his friend Sathiyanesan, where he served as a priest and treasurer. He passed away on January 16, 1977, leaving behind 6 sons and 2 daughters. His third son, S. Sathiyadas, also served as a deacon and treasurer.
3.  
4. Mr. P. ALFRED, B.A., LD., D.B.E.                      
5.                                                         
6.  

1.           Mr. P. Alfred B.A., LD., D.B.E., born as the second son of  Mr. Ponnapan peshkar Mrs. Lizi in the small village of Devikodu, passed away on December 26, 1916. He completed his schooling in Taukkalay and Nagercoil, earning his B.A. from Scott Christian College, LD from Thiruvananthapuram, and D.B.E. from Chennai YMCA. He served as an exercise instructor for Indian soldiers during World War II. Later, he worked as a physical education teacher, science teacher, and English teacher. From 1982 to 1992, he served as the Principal of LMS Higher Secondary School, Marthandam. He was a dedicated elder in the Marthandam parish and remained committed to serving others with honesty until his death on March 31, 1992.
2.  
3. Mr. J.G. JOHNSON  B.A.     

1.                                                                      
2.           Mr. J.G. Johnson was born on April 4, 1913, to Dr. John Joseph and Mrs. Grace. His father, Dr. John Joseph, served as the YMCA Secretary. Mr. Johnson held various important roles in the church, including Secretary, Deacon, and Archbishop, over a long period. During his tenure, he supported the Evangelists Band, which was established to promote evangelism, especially in rural areas. Additionally, he played a significant role in the founding of Marthandam Christian College and High School, contributing to the growth of education in the community.
3.  
4. Mr. N. EBENEZER 

1.                                                                              
2.           Born in 1927 in Marthandam to Mr. Nallathambi and Mrs. Meripakkyam, he was raised in a Christian family. He joined the church’s Evangelistic Band early on and later served as Secretary of the Sinclair Memorial Club, gaining the respect of the youth. . Mr. N.R. Raj worked with the Christian Devotional initiative Society as its vice president and worked with him as its secretary for 15 years.  A lifelong choir member, he was instrumental in organizing church events, especially during Christmas, and founded the Elderly Prayer Group. He served as a deacon from 1971 to 1990. His sudden death left a deep void in both his family and the congregation.
3.  
4. Mr. EDWIN J. PAUL     

1.                                                                     
2.           Mr. Edwin J. Paul was the son of late Mr. Paul Rethinam, a freedom fighter and lawyer, and Mrs. Mercy Rethinam. On 14th August 1966, he was elected as a church deacon , and on 18th March 1967, he was unanimously appointed as the Secretary of the Committee. He served as the Council Secretary for an impressive 24 consecutive years, until 27th January 1991. During his tenure, numerous spiritual meetings were conducted by renowned individuals such as Mr. Vedanayagam Shastri, John Solomon, Mohan C. Lazarus, Arulraj, O. Joe Moses, John Rabindranath, and Dr. Pushparaj. 
3.           Under his leadership, the church associations thrived, and significant initiatives were launched, including the establishment of the Elderly Prayer Group in 1980 and the Diocesan Prayer Group in 1983. The elders of Marthandam Church and members of the Aadi Council, elected from among the elders, worked in close collaboration with the overseers, ensuring the smooth functioning of church activities and fostering a strong sense of community.
4.  
5. Church deacons
6. Mr. P. Ambrose                                 1939 – 43, 44 – 46, 47 – 52
7. Mr. P. Paul                                          1944 – 46, 47 – 48
8. Dr. John Joesph                               1944 – 46 
9. Mr. P. Devadasan                             1947 -51, 52 – 56, 57 – 59, 60 – 63, 64 – 66, 67 – 69
10. Mr. A. S. Devaram                            1947 – 51, 52 – 56, 57 -59, 63 – 66, 67 – 69 
11. Mr. S.W. Blucher                              1952 –56, 57 – 59, 60 -63, 64 -66, 67 - 70, 71 – 73, 74 -75
12. Mr. S. Joseph                                    1952 – 56, 57 – 59, 60 – 63, 64 – 66, 67 – 70, 71 – 73
13. Mr. Paul Ebenezer                           1952 – 56
14. Mr. I. Josai                                         1952 – 1982
15. Mr. Eustace Jacab                           1952 – 56
16. Mr. N. Samuel                                   1957 – 59, 60 – 63, 64 – 66
17. Mr. R. Devadasan                            1957 – 59, 60 – 63, 64 – 66, 67 – 69, 70 – 71
18. Mr. S. S. Joseph                               1960 – 63, 64 – 66
19. Mr. J. G. Johnson                             1960 – 63, 64 – 66, 67 – 70, 71 -72
20. Mr. Edwin J Paul                               1967 – 199
21. Mr. Aron Anbaiya                              1967 – 1991
22. Mr. Hubert  George                          1967 – 1982
23. Mr. D. Oliver Bright                          1967 - 1975
24. Mr. S. Sathyadas                               1967 – 1991
25. Mr. N. Ebenezer                                 1971 - 1991
26. Mr. D. Dennison                                 1967 - 77
27. Mr. J.Gnanaya                                    1967 – 70, 74 – 76, 77 – 79, 80 - 81
28. Mr. N. S. Denial                                  1967 – 70, 75 – 91
29. Mr. P. Amirthaiya                               1967 – 70, 78 - 87
30. Mr. J. Nesamani                                 1955 - 56
31. Mr. J. Johnson                                    1982 – 84, 85 – 87, 88 - 91
32. Mr. Arthur J. Harris                           1982 – 84, 85 – 87, 88 - 91
33. Mr. P. Alfret                                          1982 – 1992
34.  
35.   ARGANIST
36. Mr. J. Bose Chandran                       1962 – 65              
37. Mr. Harris                                             1943 - 62
38. Mr. Dennis                                           1966
39. Mr. Joel                                                1934 – 42, 1967 - 68
40. Mr. C. Jeyasingh Paul                      1968
41. Mr. I. Josai Mr. S.S. Joesph Mr. D. Oliver Bright 
42. Mr. R. DevadasanMr. P. AmbroseMr. Cabriyel
43. Mr. . Eustace Jacab     Mr. A.Narkunathan  Mr. N. Jacab Johnson
44. Mr. M. Lazar    Mrs. Natchathiram PaulMrs. Lilybai Chelleya 
45. Conclusion     
46.           This blog highlights individuals who made lasting contributions to Marthandam Church (1958-1993) through selfless service, leadership, and dedication. They supported preaching, teaching, managing church affairs, and building educational institutions. Their efforts in church growth, community outreach, and infrastructure development left a lasting legacy of faith, service, and love.

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