About

Early 1960s had Ambattur – one of the suburbans in Madras (presently Chennai), developing into a great industrial place. The people predominantly industrial labourers, industrialists of small scale private firms and the traditional business people began to settle down in and around Ambattur. Christian families of that time did not have proper place for worship. However, some families got together in a house for prayer and on Sundays, Pastor from a neighbouring place came to lead them in worship.

Days went by and with the initiative of some active members supported by pastors, a temporary hut was constructed and used for worships. Soon, the number of families joining the prayer increased and the need for a permanent place for worship arose. By God’s grace and dedicated efforts of several elders and pastors, the prominent land near the present O T bus stand, was allotted for building a church.

To the Glory of God, on 7th Feb 1967, the old church building was dedicated by Bishop Leslie Newbigin, the then bishop of CSI diocese of Madras, as “CSI Christ Church, Ambattur”, with an initial congregation of about 50 families.

While Ambattur was establishing as a famous Industrial location, the Christian families associated with the church also grew in numbers, year after year. In order to accommodate more people participating in the regular worships, extensions to the original church building were constructed.

The church located as a landmark close to the bus terminus continued to be a blessing for several people, including many non-Christians who usually come and pray to receive the Lord’s mercies during week days.

Late 1990s, saw the inadequacy in space within the church building for the entire congregation and hence the practice of having 2 services for the Sunday morning worship was introduced. Yet, during festivals and special occasions temporary structures were made outside the building to accommodate the congregation.

In the early years of the 21st century, with a lot of ambition and prayers, the members of the congregation joined together and decided to rebuild the church. Efforts to raise the church building fund had begun slowly and steadily. In February 2006, the 40th anniversary of the church dedication was celebrated and then after, raising funds for rebuilding the church became the priority for every member of almost 700 families.

In August 2010, the construction of the new building had started with the blessings of the Bishop of CSI diocese of Madras, Rt.Rev.Dr.V.Devasahayam, the presbyter and many elders of the church. The design and construction of the new church is estimated for almost seven crore rupees.

The Lord God has guided the members in every way as the construction is in progress now (Jan 2012) marching towards the completion, targeted for mid year 2012.