Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Participate in Lenten Pilgrimage Focused on Jesus’ Mission for Liberation

Madurai, April 9, 2025: In a spiritually enriching and socially conscious initiative, the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM) organised a two-day Lenten pilgrimage on April 5 and 6, bringing together 15 youth from various dioceses across the state. The pilgrimage, held in Madurai and Kodaikanal, aimed to deepen the participants’ understanding of Jesus Christ’s liberative mission by visiting sites associated with social justice struggles and interfaith harmony.

The journey began on April 5 at St. Joseph’s Church in Samayanallur, Madurai, where the youth gathered in prayer before embarking on the pilgrimage.

One of the key stops of the journey was Arittapatti, a region celebrated for its successful grassroots resistance to a proposed tungsten mining project. The project, which threatened over 50,000 acres of ecologically and culturally significant land, was halted after four years of sustained local opposition. The youth met with movement leader Mr. Selvaraj and other activists, gaining firsthand insight into community-led ecological defence.

Another significant stop was the Thirupparankundram hill, home to both a Hindu temple and an Islamic dargah. At this site of religious coexistence, the youth reflected on the importance of interfaith harmony—especially meaningful in a time when divisive politics often threaten unity among people of different faiths.

On the second day, the group travelled to the Silva Retreat Centre in Kodaikanal for a spiritual retreat focused on the life, values, and socio-political mission of Jesus. Led by Fr. Edison, Director of TCYM, the retreat featured Eucharistic Adoration and the Youth Way of the Cross.

During the retreat, Fr. Edison spoke about Jesus’ liberating mission and encouraged the youth to follow in His footsteps by standing in solidarity with the oppressed.

The Youth Way of the Cross offered meditations on the passion of Christ alongside the lives of contemporary justice martyrs like Fr. Stan Swamy and St. Oscar Romero. Drawing connections between these contemporary figures and Jesus’ own suffering, the youth reflected on the call to courageous discipleship in today's world.

The pilgrimage concluded with a Holy Mass, during which participants shared personal reflections and spiritual insights. Many spoke of how the experience stirred a deep desire within them to live as authentic Christians—committed to justice, truth, and service to the oppressed.

By walking the path of Christ the Liberator—both spiritually and socially—this unique Lenten pilgrimage marked a significant step toward forming a generation of youth rooted in faith, compassion, and action.

By Catholic Connect Reporter