Sacred Heart Forane Church Facade
Our Spiritual Home

Sacred Heart
Forane Church

A beautiful and welcoming Syro-Malabar Catholic community serving the faithful of Keelkattalai, Chennai. Rooted in Eucharistic devotion, rich traditions, and dedicated to the infinite mercy of the Sacred Heart.

Historical Chronicle

A story written in prayer.

The history of Keelkattalai parish is a testimony of faith and collective dedication. From meeting in homes to building a grand Forane parish, God has guided our path step by step.

1980s

Spiritual Seeds

A few Syro-Malabar Catholic families in the southern suburbs of Chennai gathered regularly for family prayers and Rosaries, laying the groundwork for a future spiritual community.

1992

Erection of the Parish

Under the spiritual guidance of dedicated priests, the Archbishop formally erected the Keelkattalai community as an independent parish on May 3, 1992, dedicated under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

2000s

Expansion & Construction

As the suburbs grew, the parish expanded rapidly. To accommodate the increasing congregation, the community laid the foundation for the current grand church building, featuring tall white columns and arches.

2016

Elevation to Forane Church

In recognition of its growth, spiritual vitality, and administrative strength, the church was elevated to the status of a Forane Church under the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Hosur.

Parish Overview

  • LocationKeelkattalai, Chennai, India
  • DioceseEparchy of Hosur (Syro-Malabar)
  • First LiturgyMay 3, 1992
  • Annual FeastJune (Feast of the Sacred Heart)
Cathedral interior with arches
Cathedral interior with arches
Candles on altar
Candles on altar
Parish Priests

Spiritual Shepherds through time.

These dedicated priests have guided our parish community with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

1992 – 1995

Rev. Msgr. Jose Malieckal

Laid early spiritual and community foundations, guiding the parish during its developmental years.

Rev. Msgr. Jose Malieckal
1992 – 1995

Rev. Dr. Msgr. Varghese Perepadan

Focused on compassionate pastoral care and strengthening family prayer groups in the community.

Rev. Dr. Msgr. Varghese Perepadan
1996 – 1997

Rev. Fr. Antony Mukkattukaran

Initiated multiple community development programs and educational outreach ministries.

Rev. Fr. Antony Mukkattukaran
1997 (4 months)

Rev. Fr. Charley Alookaran

Served the parish with deep devotion, sustaining active spiritual animation programs.

Rev. Fr. Charley Alookaran
1997 – 2001

Rev. Fr. Johnson Tharayil

Led the parish through a significant phase of community growth and youth engagement.

Rev. Fr. Johnson Tharayil
2001 – 2004

Rev. Fr. Andrews Chelthalan

Fostered parish unity, spiritual renewal, and active family unit coordination.

Rev. Fr. Andrews Chelthalan
2004 – 2008

Rev. Fr. Dr. Anto Karippai

Promoted academic and faith formation, enhancing catechism education and local ministries.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Anto Karippai
2008 (5 months)

Rev. Fr. Joseph Kanamkoodam

Served the parish with quiet dedication and supported charitable assistance networks.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Kanamkoodam
2008 – 2011

Rev. Fr. Sinto Chittilapilly

Supervised and coordinated key infrastructure care and parish coordination efforts.

Rev. Fr. Sinto Chittilapilly
2011 (5 months)

Rev. Fr. Saji George Vattakuzhy

Dedicated vicar who enriched community prayer life through devout liturgical celebrations.

Rev. Fr. Saji George Vattakuzhy
2012 – 2016

Rev. Fr. Sinto Alapatt

Expanded parish outreach programs and revitalized pious associations and ministries.

Rev. Fr. Sinto Alapatt
2016 – 2020

Rev. Fr. Jose Pulluparambil

Dedicated pastor who navigated challenges with faith, resilience, and pastoral care.

Rev. Fr. Jose Pulluparambil
2020 – 2024

Rev. Fr. Chiramel George

Initiated modern parish infrastructure coordination and strengthened youth ministries.

Rev. Fr. Chiramel George
2024 – Present

Rev. Fr. Franson Thannadan

Shepherding the parish today in faith, charity, unity, and diocesan coordination.

Rev. Fr. Franson Thannadan
Moments of Grace

Parish Life & Celebrations

Marble altar

Marble altar

Mosque-like dome — sacred architecture

Mosque-like dome — sacred architecture

Choir loft

Choir loft

Pews and aisle

Pews and aisle

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