Chengalpattu Diocese Youth Mark Jubilee 2025 with Vibrant Celebration in Pallavaram

Pallavaram, Tamil Nadu, August 19, 2025 – The Chengalpattu Diocesan Youth Commission hosted a grand Jubilee 2025 celebration on the theme “Christ’s Kingdom, Hope, and Youth Participation” on Sunday, 17 August, at St. Sebastian’s Higher Secondary School, Pallavaram. The event, held under the guidance of Commission Secretary Fr. Lawrence, was presided over by the Bishop of Chengalpattu, A. Neethinathan.

The day opened with a solemn procession of the Jubilee Cross carried by the Bishop, priests, and invited dignitaries. Bishop Neethinathan then hoisted the flag of the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM), officially inaugurating the event.

In her address, Ms. Catherine Saranya, IAS, urged young people to draw inspiration from Christ:

“Just as the young Jesus was a revolutionary who stood against social oppression, today’s youth too must act with Him as their model. Like Jesus, who reached His goal with clarity of purpose within three years, youth must set clear goals for themselves and work with dedication to achieve them.”

TCYM Director Fr. Edison highlighted the life of Blessed Floribert Bwama Chui, a young Congolese martyr beatified on 15 June, praising his integrity and courage. He recalled Pope Francis’ exhortation in Christus Vivit, encouraging dioceses to form trained youth leaders who can guide others and ensure vibrant participation in parish life.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Peter Alphonse, former Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Minorities Commission, challenged young people to define life goals, persevere with discipline, and choose careers aligned with contemporary needs.

An engaging dialogue session followed, with Fr. David Stanley Kumar, Financial Administrator of Salem Diocese, and Fr. Sebastian George, Property Administrator of Chengalpattu Diocese. Responding to youth concerns, they emphasised that:

• “The Bible becomes ineffective if it does not reach the streets.”
• “The Jubilee reminds us of equality—everything must be available for all, without caste, creed, or religious barriers.”
• “It calls us to safeguard not only humanity but also all of creation, protecting soil, nature, and biodiversity.”

Cultural performances by youth from across the diocese added vibrancy to the afternoon. The celebration culminated in a Solemn Holy Mass led by Bishop Neethinathan, who underlined:

“It is the youth who can bring transformation in both society and the Church. Just as young Jesus confronted the injustices of His time, today’s youth must recognise the injustices around them and act accordingly.”

The liturgy reflected the diocese’s diversity, with intercessions offered in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and English. A symbolic moment came when ten young people were selected by lot as “Pilgrims of Faith,” set to visit sacred sites in Tamil Nadu later this year.

The day also witnessed the launch of Friend En Trend, a new song by VJ Vijay, a singer and actor from Malligapuram Parish renowned for voicing the concerns of ordinary people.

To conclude, Jubilee saplings were distributed to all parishes as a token of gratitude. The celebration ended with thanks expressed by Mr. Stephen, Youth Commission Coordinator, and Ms. Priska, TCYM President.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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