Nestled in the folds of my heart and interwoven with my family’s journey lies a story that resonates deeply—a tale of a Sojourner who dared to dream, paving the way for fellow Sojourners to find a sense of belonging, to build a community that would worship the divine for generations. This is not just a story; it’s the legacy of the Sojourner’s Church, a beacon for all who seek belonging and meaning.

Amid the picturesque backdrop of the Rediaarpatti hills, a vision took root in the heart of my father-in-law, Mr. Jacob Jayachandra (Mama). In 1992, when the landscape was a barren expanse of black cotton soil (கரிசல் காடு), and the only signs of life were a few scattered houses kilometers away, Mama saw beyond the emptiness. He recognized the untapped potential of this land, nestled near Tirunelveli town, and foresaw its strategic importance as a future transit hub connecting Tuticorin and Vizhinjam ports.

Years later, the Golden Quadrilateral project turned Mama’s foresight into reality. The new highway connecting Chennai to Nagercoil passed right by the land he had purchased. Fueled by a bold dream, Mama set-apart a prime portion of his property near the highway to God. His vision? A church—a sanctuary for a community that didn’t yet exist but one he believed would come to life.

What began as prayers under a humble thatched roof in 1995 soon evolved. By 2014, recognizing the need for a permanent structure, Mama, alongside his daughters Priya and Angelin and their families, spearheaded the construction of a new church building.

The Church during Construction

Through our humble efforts and contributions, the church was completed and dedicated to the glory of God.Being raised in Christian faith in the CSI tradition, in 2018 we as family approached the CSI Tirunelveli Diocese to conduct mission work & evangelism and grow the congregation. To the Glory of our Lord God Almighty, Rt. Rev. J. J Christhudoss the then Bishop of Tirunelveli Diocese prayed and dedicated the Sojourners Church for conducting worship & communion services on 21st May 2018.

The first communion service followed soon after on May 27 2018, led by Rev. Jesu Nesa Pandian, marking the beginning of a new chapter in this journey of faith. Since then, through persistent efforts of Mr. Vayanan Thomas & Mr. Jeyaraj and by the support of many Reverends of the esteem CSI Tirunelveli Diocese, we have been having worship & communion services on all Sundays at 7 AM from May 27 2018. We as a family had privilege to do VBS Ministry in the Church in 2019.

As prayers and worship continued, the barren surroundings began to transform. Homes sprang up, and a vibrant community emerged around the Rediaarpatti hills. Mama’s dream was no longer just a vision; it was becoming reality. Under the guidance of Rev. IDS Abraham, the church welcomed its first regular congregants—30 families who found their spiritual home here.

Believing it was the right time, the family transferred the Sojourner’s Church to the CSI Tirunelveli Diocese to ensure its mission and ministry flourished for generations to come. On January 12, 2025, by the grace of God, Rt. Rev. Dr. ARGST Barnabas, Bishop of CSI Tirunelveli Diocese, dedicated the church anew to God’s glory

Positioned on a highway, the church was fittingly named Sojourner’s Church (வழிப்போக்கரின் ஆலயம்). It stands as a reminder that we are all sojourners in this world—pilgrims on a journey of faith. As the Bishop so beautifully articulated during the dedication service we believe this Church will be “Available for Service” to the Sojourner’s, will be “Aware” of the Sojourner’s needs & though “Accepting” the limitations but “Act” on the needs of the Sojourner’s depending on God’s provisions.

With hearts full of gratitude and humility, we praise God Almighty for His abundant grace and provisions. We thank all those who supported this journey and pray for the church’s continued growth—both in numbers and in the spiritual depth of its congregation. May the light of the Sojourner’s Church shine brightly as a beacon of hope and a blessing to many for generations to come.”

Mama’s testimony during the dedication service – Link

Couple of songs we sang as Thanksgiving during dedication service – Link