Holy Sebastian Church – Sebastiyarpuram Madurai

Contact Details:

Holy Sebastian ChurchSebastiyarpuram, MaduraiChintamani Road, Sebastiyarpuram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
Parish Priest – Rev. Fr. Henry Jerome (SJ).
Church Established – 1958.

Brief History:

The community of Sebastiyarpuram sought Saint Sebastian’s intercession during cholera and typhoid epidemics. After receiving healing, residents wished to construct a shrine. Since local residents worked in brick-making, they contributed one-third of their bricks. In 1958, they built a thatched structure with mud walls. Under Rev. Fr. Victor’s guidance (1986-1991), the community fundraised and renovated the roof with tiles. In 2013, Rev. Fr. P.S. Arul expanded the chapel with a new adjacent building for liturgical services, consecrated by Bishop Peter Fernando. Electricity was installed in 2015-2016. An evening educational center now operates through Jesuit assistance, serving underprivileged students. The church serves 42 families as a branch of the Sorrowful Mother Basilica, Madurai, and the feast is celebrated in February.