The inauguration ceremony and festive Mass of the newly constructed Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Thoondai, Uppumaaveli, Alampil, took place on July 30, marking a significant spiritual and communal milestone for the resettled faithful of the region.
The ceremony was organized under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Jude Amalanthas, Parish Priest of Udduppukulam. Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, Bishop of Jaffna, graced the occasion, blessed and opened the new church, and presided over the festive Eucharistic celebration.
A large number of priests, religious sisters, lay faithful, and members of other religious communities attended the event and participated in prayer.
The origin of this community dates back to 1990, when the war forced several families from the Mayiliddy area of Valikamam to relocate and resettle in Thoondai. Since then, the Catholic faithful have long desired a place of worship in their new home.
Under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Fr. Jude Amalanthas, the construction of the church began in 2024, with the support of Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam and generous contributions from local and international well-wishers. A significant portion of the funding was provided by Mr. Christy Arulgnanam Mariampillai, currently residing in France.
The faithful expressed profound gratitude for the completion of their long-awaited church, which now stands as a symbol of resilience, faith, and unity among the people of the area.