Meet our Pastor

Fr. John Juliet Ulaganathan, OCD

Fr. John Juliet Ulaganathan, OCD, serves as the dedicated Rector of English Martyrs Parish, bringing a deep spiritual richness to our community here in Newcastle upon Tyne. Originally hailing from the vibrant and faith-filled state of Tamil Nadu, India, Fr. John's journey to the Northeast of England is deeply rooted in his vocation as a Discalced Carmelite friar. Upon first arriving in the UK, he began his ministry as an Assistant Priest, serving alongside Fr. Arockia Mariadass Pagyasamy, OCD. This foundational experience not only helped him acclimate to pastoral life in Britain but also allowed him to beautifully blend the contemplative, prayer-centered traditions of the Carmelite order with the practical, everyday needs of his local flock. His warm presence and unique cross-cultural perspective have since become a cornerstone of our parish family, fostering a welcoming environment for parishioners from all walks of life.

This year marks a profoundly joyous milestone for our pastor, as Fr. John recently celebrated his 20th anniversary of priestly ordination on April 22, 2026. Two full decades of devoted ministry reflect a lifetime of compassionate leadership, spiritual guidance, and unwavering service to the Catholic Church. Here at English Martyrs, his pastoral approach is defined by a deep commitment to community building, attentive care for the sick and vulnerable, and the reverent celebration of the sacraments. Whether he is offering wise counsel, guiding parish initiatives, or simply sharing a moment of fellowship after Sunday Mass, Fr. John’s twenty years of priestly wisdom continue to enrich our parish deeply, shepherding us forward in faith, hope, and unity.