Our Bishop

Meet Our Lead Bishop

Rt. Rev. Timothy Ravinder B.Sc., B.D., Z.D., is a respected and visionary leader in the Church of South India, currently serving as the Bishop of the CSI Coimbatore Diocese since September 2013. His educational journey reflects a unique blend of academic rigor and theological depth. He began his schooling at Laidlaw Memorial School of St. George’s Homes in Ketti (1966–1975), and continued his education in the sciences at Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, completing his PUC with a focus on Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Physics from Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya (1977–1980), demonstrating his aptitude for analytical thinking and scientific inquiry. Feeling a strong calling to serve in ministry, he pursued his theological training at the United Theological College, Bangalore, where he earned a Bachelor of Divinity from Serampore University (1991–1996). His commitment to theological scholarship led him to Copenhagen University in Denmark, where he completed a specialized course on the New Testament (1996–1997), exploring topics such as Christ and Culture, Luther's Interpretation of Romans, Ancient Israel, and the teachings of Grundtvig.

Rt. Rev. Timothy Ravinder has held numerous prominent roles throughout his career that reflect his dedication to ecumenism, education, and spiritual leadership. From August 2003 to May 2005, he served as Z.D. at the Folks School of Applied Sciences, where he acted as a “bridge builder” between churches in Europe and Asia—fostering cross-cultural and interfaith dialogue. His international ministry continued as a Presbyter and Ecumenical Co-Worker with the Protestant Church in Baden (2003–2008), where he contributed to strengthening ties between Indian and European congregations. Returning to India, he served as Priest-in-Charge and District Chairman of CSI St. Paul’s Church, Tirupur under the CSI Coimbatore Diocese (2011–2012), and as the Liaison Officer for the CSI-EMS India Desk at the CSI Synod in Chennai (2012–2013), where he coordinated important initiatives between the CSI and international mission partners. As Bishop of Coimbatore since 2013, he has continued to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a global perspective, guiding the diocese through spiritual renewal, social outreach, and interchurch cooperation. His life and ministry are marked by a deep commitment to faith, education, and building bridges across cultures and denominations.

Rt. Rev. Timothy Ravinder

BISHOP