Most Rev. S. Iruthayaraj

The nominated first Bishop of Palayamkottai, Rev. Msgr. S. Iruthayaraj took canonical possession of the diocese on 9th September 1973, and was consecrated as the first Bishop of Palayamkottai on 12th Sep- tember 1973 at Palayamkottai by Archbishop P. Justin Diraviam of Madurai Archdiocese.

Bishop S. Iruthayaraj pastored the diocese of Palayamkottai for 26 years and contributed to its growth in the various fields of spiritual, pas- toral, educational, social, develop- mental, ecumenical activities etc. He voluntarily retired from his Episco- pal ministry of the diocese on 14th July, 1999.