IPRG - Indian Priests and Religious Gathering

The Heart of Our Community

For over three decades, the IPRG has been a vibrant, supportive community for Indian Catholic priests and religious serving in and around Paris. Though our membership is naturally floating—with priests and religious arriving for higher studies, specialized formation, or short-term pastoral mission—we exist to foster connection, spiritual solidarity, and shared joy.

35

Years of Fellowship

Established in 1991, growing stronger with every generation.

50–100

Dynamic Members

A flowing community of diocesan & religious priests and sisters in higher studies or mission.

2

Annual Gatherings

Coming together every Nov 1st and May 1st to share our joy.

India

France

United Across Two Nations

Celebrating our rich Indian spiritual heritage while fulfilling our pastoral mission in France.

Our Journey

Humble Beginnings

The story of the IPRG began over three decades ago with a simple desire for connection. When Fr. Balthazar Castelino MEP arrived in Paris from a mission in Madagascar, he proposed a modest idea to Fr. Lawrence Pius Dorairaj (then the Tamil chaplain in Paris, now the Bishop of Dharmapuri): to host a brief afternoon get-together over tea and coffee.

With incredible enthusiasm, Fr. Lawrence reached out to his contacts. Despite the short notice, the response was overwhelming. More than 40 individuals gathered for that inaugural meeting.

The gathering featured a special sharing by Fr. Charles D’Souza (SVD), who was awaiting transit to Africa. He briefed attendees on the latest news from India. Though Fr. Charles later passed away from cancer, his contribution to our first meeting remains a cherished memory.

Establishing a Tradition

That first meeting was held at the historic Missions Étrangères de Paris (MEP), with Fr. Balthasar and Fr. Lawrence personally covering the expenses. The joy was so profound that the group immediately decided it could not be a one-time event.

A democratic structure was formed by electing members to organize events, and the community shifted to a shared-contribution model to cover expenses joyfully.

The IPRG Today

Today, the IPRG has blossomed into a mature, 35-year-old institution. While some founding members have moved to new missions or gone to their eternal rest, the spirit of the IPRG has only grown stronger.

From 40 attendees, our family has expanded to approximately 100 active members, ensuring that Indian priests and religious serving in France always have a place to share their lives, their faith, and their joy.

3rd October 2026

35th Jubilee & Website Launch

To mark the historic 35th year of the IPRG, this official website was launched on 3rd October 2026 by our founder, Bp. Lawrence Pius Dorairaj (Bishop of Dharmapuri).

This digital platform opens a new chapter for our community, connecting Indian priests and religious across France, preserving our history, and fostering fraternal fellowship for generations to come.

Missions Étrangères de Paris (MEP)

Historical Tribute MEP & Madura Jesuit Mission

Seeds Sown in India, Fruits Witnessed in France

The historic Missions Étrangères de Paris (MEP) holds extraordinary significance in sustaining the IPRG for 35 years. Alongside the legendary Madura Jesuit Mission, MEP missionaries sowed the early seeds of faith across southern India centuries ago. Today, as Indian priests and religious gather at the MEP in Paris, we stand in profound gratitude as living witnesses of those fruitful seeds—now serving in France and serving the mission in turn.

Messages & Blessings

Words of encouragement and pastoral guidance from our Founder, Co-Founder, and Leadership.

“

Founder

Bp. Lawrence Pius

Bishop of Dharmapuri & Founder of IPRG

“What began decades ago as a modest afternoon gathering over tea has grown into a vibrant home for Indian clergy and religious serving across France. May the IPRG continue to be a refuge of joy, spiritual renewal, and deep fraternity for generations to come.”

Message from the Founder

“

Co-Founder

Fr. Balthazar Castelino MEP

Co-Founder of IPRG

“When we met for the first time in 1991 for just two hours, we never thought that the IPRG would last for 35 years. That first meeting gathered around 35 to 40 priests and religious (men and women). Ten years ago, we had over 80 people at our meeting, and now we average 50 to 60 members.”

“In some communities, we have one or two Indian members who may want to interact with others from the same region or state, as well as enjoy Indian food that they cannot get in their mixed communities. Our coming together can help those priests and religious experience a sense of warmth and closeness, helping them live out their vocation better in France.”

“Naturally, gatherings involve expenses. However, not being able to contribute financially should never stop anyone from attending. Those who are able, can give more so that those who lack the means can still participate and benefit from our gathering. Fraternal charity should be what motivates us to come together.”

“May the IPRG last for many more years!”

Message from Fr. Balthazar Castelino MEP

IPRG President

Fr. Martin SDB

President of IPRG

“As President of the IPRG, I am honored to welcome every Indian priest and religious serving in France into our community. Together, we continue to walk in faith, supporting one another and sharing our joy always.”

Spiritual Vision & Mission

Two Shrines of Grace, One Universal Catholic Mission

Connecting Our Lady of Vailankanni (The Lourdes of the East) in India with the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France through prayer, fraternity, and pastoral service.