History of St Luke’s Medical Trust
A legacy of service, sacrifice, and compassion
Dr. Rathnam Vedapodakam, born in 1888, graduated from Stanley Medical College. He served as the Medical Superintendent at St. Luke’s Hospital, Nazareth, from 1923 to 1953.
After retiring, he established St. Luke’s Leprosarium in Peikulam in 1954. Despite his retirement, he continued working as a consultant for eye surgeries at Nazareth Hospital while dedicating himself to leprosy care at the leprosarium until the age of 92 in 1980.
Dr. Rathnam Vedapodakam was known as the first Black missionary, and St. Luke’s Leprosarium Peikulam became the first mission hospital established in post-independence India.
Dr. Rathnam Vedapodakam – Founder of St. Luke’s Leprosarium
Foundation and Growth
Inspired by the biblical disciple Luke, a physician, Dr. Vedapodakam named the leprosarium St. Luke’s.
He faced significant challenges in establishing the hospital, as villagers feared having a leprosy hospital nearby. He appealed to the District Collector, who, after verifying his claims, allotted one acre of land on the outskirts of the village.
Through purchased land and generous donations from well-wishers, the hospital expanded into a seven-acre campus. In addition, a rehabilitation centre for leprosy relief activities was established approximately five kilometers away on a 275-acre campus, largely acquired through contributions from supporters.
As leprosy relief efforts grew, St. Luke’s Leprosarium became a referral centre for leprosy patients across South Tamil Nadu.
St. Luke’s Leprosarium, Peikulam – Established in 1954
Leadership and Legacy
Dr. Vedapodakam continued his medical work until the age of 90. As he advanced in age, with no successor in his family to continue his mission, he entrusted the hospital and rehabilitation centre to the Bishop of Tirunelveli Diocese.
Although some were unhappy with his decision, he remained resolute. A man of discipline, principle, and integrity, he lived by God’s word, undeterred by public opinion. He never succumbed to pressure or manipulation.
After his death in 1980, he was laid to rest in Vellore beside the renowned Dr. Ida Scudder, the founder of CMC Vellore. Those who knew him were also familiar with his sacrifices and struggles.
Continuing the mission of care, concern, and commitment
Continuing the Mission
After his demise in 1980, times have changed. People have changed. Administration, governments, staff, infrastructure, treatment methods, and protocols have all evolved. However, the need for care, concern, and commitment remains unchanged.
St Luke’s Medical Trust strives to carry forward this vision by:
- Providing effective and comprehensive healthcare without discrimination.
- Caring for leprosy-affected patients through medical, surgical, and rehabilitation services.
- Offering occupational and educational assistance to affected families.
- Providing food, clothing, and shelter for long-term patients.
- Caring for vulnerable, neglected, orphaned, and destitute individuals.
- Supporting elderly citizens to live with dignity.
- Aiding mission hospitals serving communities in need.
St Luke’s Medical Trust is a medical mission incorporating a wholesome, compassionate approach to patient care.