SURANAM  (1858)

Patron                                                  :           St. James

Parish Priest                                         :           Fr.

Asst.                                                    :           Fr.

Address                                               :           St. James Church

                                                                        Suranam - 630 713

                                                                        Sivagangai (Dt)

Cellphone                                            :          

Catholics                                              :           0000

Non-Catholics                                      :           0000

Vocation          : Priests                                    :           13

                        : Sisters                                    :           29

Institutions                                           :           1. Sisters of Immaculate Conception, Suranam

                                                                        2. Brothers of De La Salle, Suranam

                                                                        3. St. James Hr. Sec. School, Suranam

                                                                        4. St. Mary's Middle School, Suranam

                                                                        5. St. James' Primary School, Suranam

                                                                        6. R.C. Primary School, Udayanoor

    History

           The origins of Suranam Church trace back about 200 years ago when it began in a thatched shed dedicated to St. James. Initially overseen by Goanese priests and later by Jesuits, the church saw significant development under the guidance of its first parish priest, Fr. Peter Perrin. He laid the foundation for the present church in 1858, which was completed by 1875. Over time, this ancient parish became the catalyst for establishing several other parishes including Salaigrammam, Kundukulam, Ilayangudi, and Pagaianjan.

       Through the dedicated efforts of parish priests and their assistants, Suranam has progressed notably in various aspects like transportation, communication, electrification, water facilities, healthcare, and education. The parish also acknowledges the significant contributions of the late Archbishop of Madras - Mylapore, Most Rev. Dr. G. Gasimir. His efforts to improve Suranam, including upgrading St. James' Middle School into a High School, have greatly benefitted underprivileged children in the region. Additionally, the long and invaluable service of his father, the late Mr. Gnanadickam, as a catechist for over five decades, holds a cherished place in the history of Suranam Church.