The Tomb of the Apostle of Tirunelveli

Rhenius Aiyar, affectionately known as the "Apostle of Tirunelveli," was a remarkable German-born missionary of the Church Mission Society (CMS). His pivotal role in the history of Palayankottai is commemorated by his tomb, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Born in Germany, Charles Theophilus Ewald Rhenius felt a divine calling to become a missionary at a young age. In the early 19th century, the Church Mission Society was seeking missionaries for Dr. John's Schools of the Danish Mission in Tharangambadi, India. Among the volunteers, Rhenius and Schnarre were chosen and underwent 18 months of missionary training in England. They embarked on their journey to India in February 1814, making Rhenius the first CMS missionary to arrive in India.

Upon their arrival in India, Rhenius and Schnarre received Tamil language training. However, Rhenius was soon redirected to Madras to serve in the CMS Mission in Madras. He established schools in Black Town and surrounding villages, contributing to education in the region. In 1815, he was entrusted with the revision of the Tamil Bible by the Bible Society in Calcutta.

In 1820, Rhenius was assigned to Palayamkottai at the request of Reverend James Hough, who sought a missionary for village ministry. Despite challenges and differences with the CMS, Rhenius continued his mission work in Tirunelveli. He founded the first CMS congregation in Palayamkottai in 1822, marking the beginning of a significant spiritual journey.

During one of his journeys through Tirunelveli in 1822, Rhenius was struck by the grandeur of the Nellaiyappar temple. Inspired by what he witnessed, he resolved to construct a colossal church that would beckon people towards Christianity.

In a remarkable display of dedication and determination, Rhenius oversaw the construction of this monumental church in a mere six months. Astonishingly, the entire project cost a modest sum of just Rupees two thousand. On June 16, 1826, the church's doors swung open to welcome the public, marking a momentous occasion. This church, known locally as "Oosi Gopuram," holds a special place in the hearts of the community. It officially bears the name Holy Trinity Church.

Rhenius's contributions extended beyond religious teachings. He authored "A Grammar of the Tamil Language: With Appendix," a Tamil grammar work published in 1859. His commitment to education and religion led to the establishment of the Palamcottah Preparandi Institution and the purchase of valuable property for educational purposes.

Tensions between Rhenius and the Anglican Diocese of Calcutta grew due to differences in church governance, ultimately resulting in Rhenius's dismissal from the CMS. 

In his final years, Rhenius's health deteriorated as he grappled with divisions in the churches he had planted. He had a profound desire for people to have access to the Bible in their native languages. On June 5, 1838, Rhenius signed notes seeking subscriptions to the Madras Auxiliary of the Bible Society, emphasizing his commitment to spreading the Word of God.

Tragically, Rhenius passed away on that same evening at the age of 48. He was buried in Adaikalapuram, Palayamkottai. His remarkable missionary work earned him recognition during the bicentennial celebrations of the Tirunelveli Diocese of the Church of South India (CSI) in 1978.

Today, Rhenius's tomb stands at the heart of Palayamkottai, surrounded by modern buildings. Tamil and English inscriptions on the tomb recount his impactful life. A memorial stone placed in 1990 pays tribute to his enduring legacy. Rhenius's tomb remains a significant historic and heritage site in Palayamkottai, though its full historical importance may be underestimated by many locals.

Happy travelling.