Vellore Diocese Holds Annual Clergy Retreat at Velankanni Shrine

Velankanni, November 14 2025 — Clergy of the diocese of Vellore conducted their annual retreat on Friday at the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Velankanni. Held from 9 to 14 November, the week-long programme offered priests sustained time for prayer, reflection, fraternity, and spiritual renewal.

On 13 November, Bishop P. Ambrose and all diocesan clergy concelebrated Mass at the Velankanni Basilica in remembrance of the deceased priests of Vellore. The celebration was marked by gratitude for their service, sacrifice, and lasting pastoral legacy.

The Eucharistic celebration on 14 November was presided over by Bishop A. Sagayaraj of Thanjavur, who encouraged the clergy to remain steadfast in their mission. He reminded them to reflect Christ’s compassion, simplicity, and pastoral zeal, and imparted his blessing as they prepared to return to their parishes.

Retreat preacher Fr. Anthony Raj OFM Cap. led the week’s conferences and scriptural reflections, emphasising personal holiness, fraternal communion, and missionary discipleship. His simple and inspiring approach resonated deeply with the clergy.

The programme also provided space for adoration, confession, and community moments that strengthened unity across the presbyterium. At the start of the retreat, Bishop Ambrose urged the clergy to “rewind, reset, and refocus,” inviting them to realign themselves with God’s call. In his final message, he reminded them: “Do not turn back. Not ‘God is everything,’ but ‘God is in everything.’ He dwells in each one of us.”

By Fr. Daniel Sharma

Diocese Communication Centre