Rev. S. Stanley Joseph

Dear Office Bearers, Elders, and Loving Congregation, Greetings in the name of our King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is 100 years old, and I am humbled and blessed to be celebrating my own 50th year alongside this historic milestone! It is with profound gratitude and immense joy that I join you today to mark this momentous occasion—a century of experiencing God’s love, grace, mercy, and faithfulness in the life of our congregation. In my pastoral ministry, this is my second blessing and privilege of serving a centenary church. First, I was honored to serve at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, KGF, and now, as the pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Ayanavaram, Chennai, I am overwhelmed with happiness and thankfulness to celebrate and serve this congregation during its centenary year. A centenary is not merely a marker of time—it is a living testimony to God’s unchanging grace, boundless provision, and divine guidance. Over the past century, this church has stood as a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of worship, and a spiritual home for countless souls who have sought and found the love of Christ.

It has been a pillar of this community, shaping lives, building faith, and spreading the Gospel through its mission, service, and commitment. As we reflect on the past, I feel deeply honored to be the successor of the faithful servants of God who have served before me. Their sacrifice and dedication laid the foundation for the mission and ministry of this church. I especially acknowledge the pioneers, pastors, leaders, and members who faithfully sowed the seeds of faith:

1. Missionary : Rev. Paul Heckel
2. Missionary : Pastor Rev. Steinoff
3. First Indian Pastor : Rev. Y. N. Devaraj
4. Pastor : Rev. James Selvaraj
5. Pastor : Rev. J.M.J Daniel Victor
6. Pastor : Rev. J. Adiss Arnold
7. Pastor : Rev. T. Samuel
8. Pastor : Rev. B.Y.M. Sureshkumar

Their legacy inspires us to walk boldly into the future, trusting that the same God who led us through the last century will guide us onward with renewed purpose and strength. As we celebrate this centenary, let us also recommit ourselves to the mission of this church: to love God, serve others, and proclaim the Good News to the world. May our theme for this centenary year—"Faith and Love"—guide us as we work together for His Kingdom, united in heart and spirit. “Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto us!” Once again, I congratulate each one of you on this remarkable milestone. May God continue to bless this congregation abundantly now and for generations to come. To God be the glory, forever and ever. Amen With blessings and love, Rev. S. Stanley Joseph

Rev. B.Y.M. Suresh Kumar

Rev. BYM Suresh Kumar began his pastoral service at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) on January 7, 2021. A versatile personality, he was a gifted musician, an eloquent orator, and had profound knowledge of the Bible. Prior to joining GSLC, he served at the renowned Concordia Lutheran Church for nearly a decade. Before that, he was involved in ministry with the IELC Tamil Services at churches in Mumbai. During his time at GSLC, Rev. Suresh Kumar played a key role in organizing the Cemetery Committee, bringing together representatives from all IELC churches in Chennai.

Through these efforts, he initiated the construction of a much-needed compound wall for the church cemetery, which had long been surrounded by encroachments and lacked proper maintenance. His tenure saw the successful completion of this project, securing the cemetery area. When the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in partial lockdowns in early 2021, Rev. Suresh Kumar ensured that church services continued uninterrupted. He also took the initiative to broadcast the services on YouTube, making them accessible to elderly members and those unable to attend in person due to health concerns. Additionally, he worked closely with the church leadership to provide financial support and monthly provisions to members of the congregation in need. Rev. Suresh Kumar, in collaboration with the leadership team, also streamlined the church’s monthly medical assistance program, ensuring that the support reached those who truly needed it. Furthermore, his leadership contributed to several improvements in the church premises.

The church’s pavement was restructured, and the backyard was cleared to create a designated car parking facility. With his guidance, the church now has the capacity to accommodate up to 25 cars. Additionally, new, high- security gates were installed at both the entry and exit points, along with a small gate in the middle, allowing worshippers to view the altar and pray. Despite his deep involvement in every church activity—whether it was leading carol services or organizing major celebrations like Harvest, Christmas, and New Year—Rev. Suresh Kumar’s time at GSLC was tragically cut short. In November 2022, he fell ill and, despite his tireless work for the Lord, passed away on January 21, 2023. His sudden loss deeply saddened the entire church community. On January 23, 2023, GSLC held a final farewell service for Rev. Suresh Kumar, paying tribute to his dedicated service. He was then laid to rest in his hometown of Ambur, in the Concordia Church Cemetery, a place he held dear. Though his time at GSLC was brief, Rev. Suresh Kumar served with deep commitment and mindfulness, leaving a lasting impact on the congregation.

Rev. Dr. T. Samuel

Rev. Dr. T. Samuel served as the pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) in Ayanavaram from 2014 to 2020. He was ordained as a pastor by the IELC in 2001 and initially served in the CRM Ministry at Vaniyambadi Circle. He later moved on to serve as the pastor of Gethsemane Lutheran Church, where he also pursued a Master of Theology (M.Th.) degree while continuing his pastoral duties. Subsequently, he served at an IELC Church in Kaveripatinam before being called to GSLC in 2014.

During his tenure at GSLC, Rev. T. Samuel spearheaded several initiatives that significantly impacted the church and its community. Under his leadership, GSLC saw a steady increase in membership. A major milestone was the celebration of the church’s 90th anniversary, a moment that not only commemorated the church's rich history but also set the stage for its centenary celebration. One of his most notable accomplishments was his efforts, alongside the Office Bearers and Pastorate Committee, to acquire land for a new church in the outskirts of Chennai, aimed at serving the village ministry. This goal was realized in 2014 with the purchase of land at TRP. In 2015, when Chennai was devastated by severe floods, Rev. T. Samuel, along with the church leadership, organized numerous medical camps and distributed food and provisions to those affected.

Rev. T. Samuel also played a pivotal role in strengthening village ministries. He collaborated with the Ambur Synod (ADS) to bring in an assistant pastor to serve at Thirumalaivoyal Church and established the CRM ministry at TR Palayam, which operated under a rental roof until 2019. That year, through his diligent efforts and the support of the church leadership, a new church building was inaugurated at TR Palayam on December 28, 2019. Rev. T. Samuel’s tenure also saw significant improvements in church organization. He led the reorganization of the Cemetery Committee in coordination with other IELC churches in Chennai. This reorganization introduced a structured fee system for cremation services, generating essential unds that were later used for building the church compound in 2021, under the leadership of Rev. BYM Suresh Kumar. Additionally, during his tenure, GSLC launched its first Sunday School Retreat, which became an annual event. The church also embraced digital technology, with services and events moved to PowerPoint presentations that were broadcast via projectors, enhancing member participation. A 55-inch screen was installed outside to accommodate the overflow of congregants, and a 360-degree camera was used to capture and broadcast the entire service. Rev. T. Samuel was instrumental in digitizing church operations.

Church accounts were moved to a digital platform using Office 365 tools, and the church membership database was fully digitized. Birthdays and wedding anniversaries of congregational members were celebrated weekly, with Rev. T. Samuel personally sending greetings and blessings. Under his leadership, the church accounts underwent independent audits starting in 2018, ensuring transparency and financial accountability. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rev. T. Samuel created a YouTube channel to broadcast weekly services and sermons, ensuring continued spiritual guidance for the congregation throughout 020. Rev. T. Samuel completed his Doctorate by 2021. On January 1, 2021, he conducted his final service at GSLC before being transferred to Nather Lutheran Church in Ambur. Later, his qualifications and experience led him to be appointed as a professor at Concordia Theological Seminary.

Rev. J. Adise Arnold

Rev. Adise Arnold began his pastoral ministry in Nagercoil after completing his theology studies. Rev. Adise Arnold moved into the field of theological education after serving as a pastor in Nagercoil. He held a number of important positions at Gurukul Lutheran Theological College. In his capacities as a teacher, professor, registrar, and director, he was able to influence the intellectual and spiritual growth of upcoming church leaders.

The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church saw a number of noteworthy advancements under the visionary leadership of Rev. Adise Arnold, which had a significant effect on the congregation as well as the larger community. Many important programs that greatly improved the church's outreach and community involvement were implemented during the illustrious term of Rev. Adise Arnold at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. The launch of a free tailoring school for impoverished women, which equipped them with useful skills to enhance their standard of living, was one of the most notable initiatives. Additionally, under Rev.Arnold's direction, other free medical camps were established, providing much-needed Blood donations and medical assistance to people in need further enhanced the church's community outreach responsibilities.His ten years of service, which ended on March 22, 2014, are recalled as a time of community uplift and spiritual development, symbolising the church's goal to care for the full person—body, mind, and soul. Tsunami Relief Campaign - 2004

Rev. Dr.J.M.J. Daniel Victor

After a remarkable career as a pastor and teacher in several Ambur churches and schools, Rev. Dr.J.MJ. Daniel Victor was ordained as the Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on October 8, 1984. He addressed his ministry with unshakeable determination and a strong commitment to proclaiming the Word of God. Significant improvements were made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church's infrastructure under Rev. Dr.J.MJ. Daniel Victor'sleadership, including the building of a parsonage. Furthermore, encircling walls were constructed to make the congregation feel welcome.

During the stewardship of Rev. Dr.J.MJ. Daniel Victor , Good Shepherd Lutheran Church organized its first pilgrimage to Israel, providing church members with a profound opportunity to walk in the footsteps of biblical history. This pilgrimage served as an impactful spiritual experience, allowing participants to gain a deeper connection to their faith and the Holy Land. Under the guidance of Rev. J. Daniel Victor, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church celebrated its 75th anniversary on December 26, 1999, with a lavish Thanksgiving service to thank God for his faithfulness throughout the church's history. A commemorative magazine detailing the church's development was released to commemorate this momentous milestone. Rev. J. Daniel Victor led the church with devotion and spiritual leadership during his 19 years of devoted service to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. He left a legacy of unflinching dedication to the church's goal and the spiritual development of its members when he retired on October 10, 2003, after serving in ministry for almost 20 years. The Church still remembers his lengthy service with great appreciation and reverence.

Rev. James Selvaraj

Rev. James Selvaraj became the Reverend of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in 1974 after being ordained. He founded the church choir because of his great love for music and his extraordinary singing abilities, establishing a thriving musical ministry to exalt God.

The English church service was started during Rev. James Selvaraj's tenure. In addition to broadening the church's reach, this program promoted inclusivity by allowing people from all walks of life to join in worship and spread the gospel of the triune God. The 50th anniversary of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church was commemorated during the tenure of Rev. James Selvaraj. To honour God Almighty, a Thanksgiving ceremony was held to commemorate this historic occurrence. In addition to renewing their dedication to their faith, the celebration gave the congregation a chance to consider the blessings and significant events they had experienced over the years. The The occasion served as evidence of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church's lasting heritage and its commitment to upholding God's glory. Rev. James Selvaraj tirelessly served Good Shepherd Lutheran Church until October 8, 1984, and his devoted ministry had a long-lasting effect on the congregation. On October 3, 1998, he entered the Kingdom of God after a life of faith and service. Even now, the congregation is still motivated and led by his legacy of spiritual leadership, music, and dedication to the church

Rev. Y.N. Devaraj

The unique privilege of becoming the pastor of the first church founded by the Indian Evangelical Lutheran Church (IELC) in Krishnagiri belonged to Rev. Y.N. Devaraj. From 1952 to 1969, Rev. Y.N. Devaraj and Rev. Steinhoff were co-servants at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Their cooperative leadership was essential to the congregation's development and spiritual progress during this time..

In 1969, Rev. Y.N. Devaraj became the first Indian Reverend of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, further solidifying the church's outreach and purpose after Rev. Steinhoff's.A major turning point in the history of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church was reached when the church building was constructed under Rev. Y.N. Devaraj's leadership. Future generations will have a permanent place of worship and communal meeting thanks to his leadership and effort, which were crucial in realising this vision. Up until his retirement on May 31, 1974, Rev. Y.N. Devaraj served Good Shepherd Lutheran Church with fidelity. He received a call to eternal rest after a lifetime of devoted service, and on December 23, 1993, he entered God's Kingdom. The congregation is still motivated by his legacyo f commitment and spiritual leadership.

Rev. Steinhoff

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) began a focused ministry in India in 1934 when Rev. Steinhoff travelled there on a high-profile mission. He served in Pernambut from 1934 to 1938 and then played a crucial part in Ambur from 1939 to 1948. From 1949 to 1950, he continued his ministry in the Thirupattur and Vaniyambadi regions. Rev. Steinhoff became the parish pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in 1950 after taking over as leader of the Chennai branch. He was instrumental in growing the flock and furthering the church's community service.

Rev. Steinhoff fervently preached the gospel program "Bringing Christ to Nation" on Sri Lanka Radio over the next twenty years, reaching a large audience and spreading the message of hope and faith. Apart from his evangelistic endeavours, he worked with American Food Relief to offer students financial aid, which enabled them to pursue their education and lessened hunger among the underprivileged. In addition to advancing the church's spiritual goal, Rev. Steinhoff's unwavering dedication to service met the urgent social needs of the community, demonstrating the church's commitment to both faith and action. In 1966, Rev.Steinhoff acquired the land of our church and the land for Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Choolaimedu and helped to build the church. Rev. Steinhoff not only provided a physical foundation for the congregation but also solidified its future as a spiritual home for generations to come. In 1969, Rev. Steinhoff returned to his homeland, where he continued his devoted service as a church pastor for the next 25 years. His commitment to ministry and the spiritual well-being of his congregation remained unwavering throughout this time. Rev. Steinhoff's went to be withthe Lord on February 18, 1990, His legacy of faith, leadership, and compassion continues to inspire the members of the church, leaving an enduring impact on both his local church and the broader community