Purasawalkam is home to many heritage buildings and so it is not surprising that there is one celebrating its bicentenary year.

CSI Missionary Chapel located at Mookathal Street, Purasawalkam, is commemorating the bicentenary of its consecration. It was established on December 25, 1819 and is considered to be the oldest church in Purasawalkam and Vepery.

A commemoration tablet with a brief narrative on the history of the chapel was recently unveiled marking the year-long celebrations.

Several eminent persons from London Missionary Society shepherded the Missionary Chapel.

It was Anna Drew (wife of William Hoyles Drew, presbyter of Missionary Chapel) who started a small boarding school, ‘London Mission Female School’ for deserving children at Kellys. It is now known to be Bentinck Girls Higher Secondary School, Vepery.

I. Samuel Prabhakar, Presbyter and Chairman, CSI Missionary Chapel, recalled his childhood days when he was a member of the church. He considers serving at his mother Church as a rare opportunity and honour especially during its bicentenary year. Several social activities, including free medical camps, have been conducted through the church.

This year, the church’s medical team has started veterinary services.

The building has some additions. In 1957, a belfry was added and the rear portion of the church was extended to accommodate growing congregation in 1975. There are plans to renovate the church without making any structural changes. At present, nearly 450 families regularly worship at the church.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Chennai / by K. Lakshmi / February 08th, 2019