1706
Ziegenbalg and Plütschau arrive at Tharangambadi
Church of South India · Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur DioceseThe Householdof God
“That they all may be one.” From the shore at Tharangambadi in 1706 to 8 District Church Councils today — one flock, gathered in many windows.
Eight District Church Councils · 98 pastoratesChoose your council
Our Heritage
The Story of a Living Legacy
On 9 July 1706 the Lutheran missionaries Ziegenbalg and Plütschau landed at Tharangambadi — the first stirring of a story that became the Tiruchirappalli–Thanjavur Diocese of the Church of South India in 1947.
Read our story- 1706The Gospel reached Tharangambadi
- 8District Church Councils
- 98Pastorates across the Diocese
- 115Educational institutions, hostels and hospitals
- 13Ministry committees
Find your church
Where do you worship?
Type a pastorate, a minister or a council. Among 98 pastorates, the matching windows light up as you write.
The Household of God · The Flock of Christ
One flock, in eight councils
98 pastorates across 8 District Church Councils, from Tiruchirappalli and Thanjavur to Dharapuram and the Anamalai hills.
Our Journey
Three centuries of faith and service
From the first missionaries at Tharangambadi to a united Diocese — every date the History records.
13 ministries
Serving in the name of Christ
Schools and hospitals, hostels and homes, gatherings and camps — a few of the ministries, each in the Diocese's own figures.
Institutions
Learning, healing and care
115 institutions on the Church of South India Trust Association's list, carrying the Diocese's ministry into every community it serves. The taller the building, the more of them there are.
Our Bishop
Rt. Rev. Dr. S. Samuel Rajadurai
The seventh Bishop · consecrated 6 December 2025, St. Luke's Church, Tiruchirappalli
Balancing scripture and constitution for the development of faith and distribution of justice.
- 1Revival of Christian faith and works rooted in faith.
- 2In managing the providence for the people, to do mercy and justice to the marginalised.
- 3To conduct the financial affairs of God’s household with integrity and faithfulness.
News & publications
From the life of the Diocese
Diocese News
The river is running. Reports from the councils, institutions and ministries will be set here, newest first.
Diocese news itemsBeing prepared
Thiruchbai Malar
Soft copies, to read or keep.
Thiruchbai Malar — soft copiesBeing prepared
“Thus far the Lord has helped us.” — 1 Samuel 7:12