PIME Valarpirai, Trichy
A study house for the degree programme was opened in Chennai, Tamil Nadu in 2003. The same was shifted from Chennai to Trichy in 2006. The foundation stone was laid on the anniversary of Foundation of PIME by Rev. Fr. Augustine Mundupalakal. The present building named PIME VALARPIRAI seminary, was inaugurated on 3rd July 2008 by Rev. Fr. Mark Tardiff (Asst. Superior General) and blessed by Most. Rev. Antony Devotta, Bishop of Trichy.
The name Valarpirai is taken from the local language Tamil, which means “Waxing Moon,” a process which reminds us of the purpose of every missionary formation ‘the growth of the image of Christ the missionary par excellence in the heart of each one’. It is towards this purpose that each student who completes his intermediate studies is accepted here for 3 years of college UG course. They are admitted in St. Joseph’s college run by Jesuits, in various departments such as history, English Literature, Commerce and Economics.
PIME Valarpirai continues its journey of formation with four important dimensions: Spiritual, Intellectual, Human and Missionary. The formation house enhances the seminarians to arrive at a personal and collective discernment to Missionary Priesthood, to ensure an adequate comprehension of the basic mystery of faith and Christian life.
