India: Island Catechism students gather for a “Day with God, Away from the Internet”

More than 1,500 catechism students from the island parishes of the Diocese of Sivagangai, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, came together at St. Joseph’s Parish, Susaiyappar Pattinam, for the Island Catechism Students’ Conference 2025, held under the theme “A Day with God, Away from the Internet.”

The colorful and faith-filled event aimed to help children rediscover joy in faith and community amid today’s technology-driven world.

The day began with a prayerful procession from the Church of the Infant Jesus within the parish campus. Carrying banners that read “A Day with God, Away from the Internet,” the children walked together in unity and enthusiasm. The procession was inaugurated by Hon. MLA Mr. Kadhar Basha Muthuramalingam, who praised the Church’s efforts to guide young people toward meaningful and faith-centered living.

Learning to Be “Little Children in His Arms”

From morning to evening, students participated in a series of sessions and activities at the Glory Pavilion, centered on the theme “A Day in His Arms, as Little Children.” The conference officially opened with the hoisting of the conference flag by Fr. Analin, Secretary of the Catechetical Commission of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC).

In his keynote message, Fr. Analin expressed deep joy at the vibrant faith life in the island parishes. He commended the catechism teachers for their dedication and the children for their active participation. Using humor and storytelling, he reflected on the blessings and challenges of the digital world, encouraging children to use technology wisely and to keep their hearts rooted in God.

The highlight of the event a the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Bishop Lourdhu Anandam of Sivagangai, together with island priests, Fr. Sebastian (Pastoral Director), and Fr. Jeevan (Diocesan Catechetical Commission Secretary). The Mass was offered especially for the children, thanking God for their growing faith and enthusiasm.

A Celebration of Faith and Community

The Youth and Women’s Associations of St. Joseph’s Parish worked hand in hand with catechism teachers to organize and animate the program. Preparations took place over two months under the guidance of the Assistant Parish Priest, whose leadership was widely appreciated.

As the day drew to a close, the initial call to “Leave the Internet, Be with Jesus” was transformed into a deeper invitation, “Spend a Day in His Arms as Little Children.”

Reflecting on the experience, Parish Priest Fr. Infant shared: “This revival conference has inspired our island catechism students to participate more faithfully in catechism classes. In today’s internet-driven world, we wanted to help them turn their hearts toward God, because that is where real joy and well-being begin.”

The Island Catechism Students’ Conference 2025 concluded with renewed faith and a shared commitment to live each day in God’s presence, connected not by the internet but by the spirit of love, faith, and community.