MIDS History
The Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS), the social service organization of the Marthandam Diocese, was established in July 9, 1997. Registered under the Indian Trust Act, MIDS works for the upliftment of marginalized communities in the Kanyakumari District and Madurai District of Tamil Nadu.
In the initial years, a section of the kitchen near the priests' residence at Christ the King Cathedral served as the MIDS office (1997-2002). Later, with the vision for independent functioning, land was purchased at Idaivilagam, Kazhuvanthittai, and a new office building was constructed under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Prem Kumar. The new office was inaugurated in April 2002 by Archbishop Cyril Mar Baselios. A dining hall with a kitchen and a chapel on the first floor were subsequently added to meet various needs.
Rev. Fr. Prem Kumar served as the director of MIDS until July 2006. Subsequent directors built upon the foundation laid by Rev. Fr. Prem Kumar, implemented various project works. Rev. Fr. S. Varghese served as the director from 2006 onwards. In October 2008, dormitories were built on the first floor for training purposes and to accommodate trainees. Rev. Fr. Peter Benedict Rajan was the director from July 2013 to July 2018, overseeing and implementing project works. Since July 2018 -2023, Rev. Fr. John Kumar served as the director and implemented numerous projects to uplift the weaker section.
Over the years, MIDS has developed sufficient infrastructure facilities within its office. During natural disasters and pandemics, MIDS staff worked together seamlessly. MIDS undertakes continuous projects and strives to implement impactful initiatives. Notably, during the Jubilee year, MIDS developed and implemented 25 special projects. The late Bishop Rt. Rev. Lawrence Mar Ephraem, the former Bishop Rt. Rev. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, and the current Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Vincent Mar Paulos, as the leaders of the MIDS organization, have provided valuable guidance and significantly contributed to the organization's growth.
Since November 2023, Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome has taken charge as the Director of MIDS, currently implementing various projects to uplift marginalized communities. His leadership continues to drive the organization's mission of service and compassion. For the past 27 years, MIDS has collaborated with Kolping and Save a Family Plan (SAFP) organizations and other partnering agencies to uplift women, children, and marginalized sectors. This partnership has enabled MIDS to reach a broader population, significantly contributing to the upliftment of society. Through this collaboration, MIDS could provide sustainable support and improved the quality of life for many vulnerable individuals.
Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) is actively working towards fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals, answering the universal call to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. Our initiatives align with these global objectives to create lasting, positive impacts on marginalized communities.