St. Francis Xavier's Church in Pallavaram, Chennai, holds a significant place in the history of Catholicism in South India. Established in 1851, it stands as the oldest church in the region, dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, a renowned Spanish missionary and co-founder of the Jesuit order. Rev. Fr. T. Mac Auleppe was the first Parish Priest for this parish, serving from 1851 to 1854. In 1856, a small church and a residence for the parish priest were built on the church campus.
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After 70 years under the leadership of Rev. Fr. A. Mascharenas as the parish priest, the foundation stone for the new church was laid by The Rt. Rev. J.B.M. Ribeiro, D.D., Bishop of Cochin, on August 24th, 1924.With the support and cooperation of the parish's ancestors, this huge church, with its unique architecture, was constructed in an impressive 16 months, showcasing beautiful design. The church was later erected, consecrated, and blessed by the Very Rev. F.H. Franco, V.F. on December 20th, 1925, with permission from the Very Rev. MC.R.A.M. Teixeira, Administrator of the Diocese. The cross-shaped church stands as a testament to the architectural excellence of its time. In the front part of the church is a statue of the crucified Jesus, gazing upon the altar. It is amazing that the stained glass window paintings in the church, made a hundred years ago, still retain their beauty. Additionally, the stations of the cross set up in this church are the most realistic, unlike any other church, making them visibly striking.
During the period when St. Francis Xavier’s Church was started, it was the main church for Chromepet, Tambaram, and Dharkast. In 1954, the Marian year was celebrated, and as part of the commemoration, the grotto for Mother Mary was constructed in our Church. Around the same time, the construction of the Parish church for Chromepet was also initiated. In 1985, Rev. Fr. Sebastian became the parish priest. During his tenure, the front elevation of the church gate and an arch bearing the name of St. Francis Xavier were constructed. With the assistance of Rev. Fr. Ignatius Prasad, they took the initiative to renovate the church altar, and they successfully completed the renovation. ... While its age has not altered, the altar has been renovated. In 1997, Rev. Fr. Patrick took over as the parish priest. He oversaw the completion of the Infant Jesus statue grotto and redesigned the area to showcase the crucifix of Jesus prominently at the front of the church. Additionally, in the year 2000, Fr. Patrick renovated the church for its 75th anniversary celebration, addressing damages to the doors, windows, and walls, and giving it a refreshed appearance. We celebrated the Tri Grand celebration at our St. Francis Xavier Church in the year 2000, marking 150 years since its establishment, 75 years since its construction, and 25 years of Rev. Fr. Patrick's priesthood.
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After 22 years, as the Church approached its centennial, damages to the roof and surrounding walls prompted Rev. Fr. Esthakiyus, the parish priest, to initiate the renewal of the church while preserving its antiquity. With the support and cooperation of Most Rev. Dr. A. Neethinathan, Bishop of Chingleput, church parishioners, and well-wishers, renovations began in 2023. The church renovation was completed, and a consecration ceremony for the renovated church was held on April 7, 2024, with the gracious presence and blessings of Most Rev. Dr. A. Neethinathan, Bishop of Chingleput, and Guests of Honor Very Rev. Fr. P. John Bosco, Vicar General, Diocese of Chingleput, and Very Rev. Fr. Backiya Regis, Vicar Forane, Pallavaram Vicariate, marking a new chapter in its long history.The First Class Holy Relic of St. Francis Xavier’s skin is enshrined inside the consecrated altar of this church.
