Poonch is 240 km from Jammu. The province took over Poonch as the first center in 1989.Christianity was brought to Poonch through the mission work of some protestant pastors. The converts were from the valmiki caste, who were traditionally scavengers. At their request, the Jammu-Srinagar bishop sent Fr. George Karakkunnel SJ to work there in 1982. Staying at a house that belonged to a member of the community, he carried out missionary work and converted a few. He also constructed a small church and community center in Poonch.

Frs. Jacob Keekarikkat and Joseph Paikada were the first CMImissionaries in Poonch. There were 34 Christian families whenthey came to the mission. Now many have been converted and the Christian community is growing steadily. A parish church,priest’s residence and cemetery have been constructed. A small chapel has also been built in the Purani Poonch area of the city.Poonch parish has been declared the best in the diocese by the bishop.

Apostolates

1. Christ School, Poonch

2. Christ School Campus at Degwar

3. St. Ignatius Church

Inmates

Fr Shijo Kanjirathingal :	Prefect & Principal, Christ School, Poonch
Fr George Pallickamadathil :	Vicar & Finance Administrator
Fr Linju Malayickal :	Principal Christ School, Degwar