Jubilee Joy at Vailankanni: A Grand Celebration of Priesthood by CDPI, Tamil Nadu – Pondy Region

Vailankanni, January 31, 2025: The serene and sacred grounds of Vailankanni Shrine witnessed a historic gathering of diocesan priests from across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, as they came together to celebrate their Jubilee Year Conference under the theme “Let Us Celebrate the Priesthood” from January 28-30.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome by Fr. Ambrose, the regional president, followed by an insightful introduction to the Catholic Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI) by Fr. Crispin Boniface, the state secretary of the Vocation Commission.

The keynote address, delivered by Bishop Lawrence Pius of Dharmapuri, delved into the essence of the diocesan priesthood. His words inspired the gathered clergy, urging them to remain steadfast in their vocation amid modern challenges.

Focusing on Holistic Well-being

The conference featured a series of engaging talks on the holistic well-being of priests:

Fr. Irudayaraj, Rector of Vailankanni Shrine, spoke on spiritual nourishment for priests.

Fr. Francis Xavier Nelson addressed the crucial topic of physical and mental wellness.

Fr. Jackson Louis introduced an intriguing session on artificial intelligence and its role in pastoral ministry.

A Sacred Celebration of Brotherhood

The spiritual highlight of the day was a grand Eucharistic celebration, led by Fr. Arputharaj, Parish Priest of the shrine, along with Fr. Angel Raj of Madurai and a host of concelebrating priests. The air was filled with prayer, thanksgiving, and a deep sense of unity as priests rededicated their lives to the service of God and His people.

Honouring 25 Years of Faithful Service

One of the most touching moments was the Silver Jubilee celebration of priests who had completed 25 years of dedicated service. In a heartwarming gesture, these priests were honoured during a special Mass, followed by a felicitation ceremony, where they received commemorative gifts as a token of gratitude for their unwavering commitment.

Fr. George Santhanaraj led the celebrations, with Fr. Gilbert Joe and the jubilarians joining in a thanksgiving Mass. Fr. Bhakiya Regis of Chengalpattu Diocese extended his heartfelt wishes, while a representative of the Silver Jubilee priests delivered an emotional response speech, reflecting on the joys and challenges of their priestly journey.

A Gathering of Over 250 Priests

This extraordinary Jubilee celebration was made possible by the dedicated efforts of:

Fr. Ambrose (Regional President)

Fr. Joseph Sagayaraj (Vice President)

Fr. Irudayaraj (Rector of Vailankanni Shrine)

Fr. Arputharaj (Parish Priest of Vailankanni Shrine)

With over 250 priests in attendance, the gathering was not just an event but a spiritual milestone, reaffirming the bond of priesthood and the call to serve with renewed zeal and joy. As the sun set over Vailankanni, the priests departed with hearts full of gratitude and spirits uplifted, carrying forward the light of their sacred mission into the world.

Fr. Joseph Jayakumar

Director, Pastoral Centre