St. Francis Xavier Church – Lalukkapuram Tirunelveli

Contact Details:

St. Francis Xavier ChurchLalukkapuram, TirunelveliLalukkapuram, Gandhinagar Post – 627008, Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
Parish Priest – Rev. Fr. M. A. Seshuraj.

Brief History:

Established in the 19th century by Jesuit missionary Julius Pillas, this church began with approximately 20 Catholic families worshipping in a thatched structure. A small permanent chapel was constructed in the early 20th century. Fr. George Joseph conducted the first Mass here and provided electrical connections. The congregation observes a nine-day novena honoring Saint Sebastian particularly during October-November. The church celebrated its centennial in 2003 under Bishop A. Jude Paulraj’s leadership. In 2005, when Nellai Town became an independent parish, Lalukkapuram became its branch. The roadside location attracts diverse travelers and pilgrims who pause briefly for prayer. The church serves 55 families and the feast is celebrated November 6-15.