Saint Paul Church, Mela Ilandaikulam, Thirunelveli

Saint Paul Church, Mela Ilandaikulam, Thirunelveli

Saint Paul Church is located at Mela Ilandaikulam Village near Sankarankoil in Thirunelveli District of Tamilnadu. Mela Ilandaikulam is situated east of National Highway 7 between Thirunelveli and Kovilpatti.

History

St. Paul Church Mela Ilandaikulam Thirunelveli diocese (Marai Mavattam) launched on December 28, 1903. Tall Church Tower construction started in the year 2005 and opening ceremony of the tower was observed on May 20, 2007. This church operates under the Manur and Erandum Sollan church councils.

The Church

The height of the church tower is 50.4 meters (165 ft.), its width is 10.3 meters (34 ft.). Its interior is includes the giant campanile. The bell is sounded when a fire breaks out and for marriages and funeral.

Prayer Timings

·        Every day dawn - 4.30 to 5.30

·        Daily at night - 7.30 to 8.30

·        Sunday morning - 9.30 to 11.30

·        Full Night Prayers will be observed on third Saturday of every month

Festivals

Every year on May 20, a seven-day festival takes place. The first day is for prayer and worship. The second day a gospel meeting follows; school children's art shows play an important role. Festivities take place at night. Many people return to the village during the festival.

Connectivity

Mela Ilandaikulam is located at about 35 Kms from Sankarankovil, 40 Kms from Kovilpatti, 41 Kms from  Thirunelveli, 88 Kms from Thoothukudi, 140 Kms from Madurai and 193 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest Railway Station is located at Sankarankoil. Nearest Airport is located at Madurai, Thoothukudi and Thiruvananthapuram.