History

Welcome to the Railway Colony Parish, a cherished community deeply rooted in the history and faith of Madurai. Established in 1911 by Southern Railway, our parish has evolved over the years, guided by dedicated priests and steadfast parishioners. Nestled within our community is the Sacred Heart Church, a magnificent Gothic structure built in 1927, serving as a beacon of spiritual solace and architectural splendor.

Our journey began with Fr. Simon, who served as Chaplain and Headmaster of St. Mary’s High School, laying the foundation for our spiritual growth. Despite initial challenges, including the rejection of a site for our church, our faith persevered, finding solace in the Sacred Heart chapel near Masi Street.

Over the years, under the leadership of devoted priests like Fr. Turlan and Fr. Lambert, our community flourished. The expansion of the Sacred Heart Church in 1937 symbolized our collective dedication, with contributions from generous parishioners reflecting our unity and commitment.

In the following decades, as Madurai evolved, so did our parish. Fr. Joseph Nedungat and Fr. V.M. Irudayam spearheaded initiatives to enhance our infrastructure and extend our reach, ensuring that our parish remained a beacon of faith and community.

In 2017, our parish received a significant honor when Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Antony Pappusamy declared it a personal parish for the Anglo-Indian Community across Madurai. This recognition affirmed our role as a spiritual home for believers from all walks of life.

At the heart of our parish lies a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Through weekly services, novenas, and special events, we foster a personal encounter with God, welcoming devotees from far and wide to join us in prayer and reflection.

In 2022, with the support of our parishioners, friends, and devotees, we embarked on a journey of renewal. The renovation and blessing of our church marked a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to worship and community.

Today, under the guidance of Fr. P. Devadass, we continue to uphold our traditions and values, embracing all who seek solace and spiritual nourishment. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to serve, inspire, and uplift all who enter our doors. Welcome to the Railway Colony Parish, where faith meets community, and hearts unite in devotion.