India: Thanjavur Diocese celebrates Altar Servers’ Jubilee with faith and fellowship

The Diocese of Thanjavur, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, gathered more than 2,000 altar servers from 99 parishes at the International Marian Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Vailankanni, on September 30, 2025, for a grand Jubilee celebration.

Themed “Let the little children come to me” (Mt 19:14), the event was part of the global observance of Jubilee 2025, a year of renewal and evangelization proclaimed by the late Pope Francis.

The celebration was inaugurated by Fr. Irudhayraj, Rector of the Shrine, who warmly welcomed the altar servers and encouraged them to serve with faith and joy. His words set the tone for a day that combined prayer, catechesis, cultural programs, and fellowship.

Two keynote sessions became important moments of learning and inspiration. Fr. Xavier Claudius, a well-known preacher and animator, led a session on the meaning of the Holy Eucharist and the vital role altar servers play in the liturgy. Another session, by Fr. Ranjith, focused on vocations to religious life, planting seeds of reflection in the hearts of the young participants.

The children were also captivated by Bommalattam, a traditional Tamil Nadu puppet show performed by Johny and Co. from Coimbatore. Through its colorful storytelling, the show communicated the message of God’s love in a way that deeply resonated with the young audience.

The diocese ensured the children enjoyed a joyful day together, serving them refreshments and a festive lunch. Each participant received a Jubilee souvenir kit containing a Bible, a rosary, an altar server’s handbook, and a vocation brochure.

In the afternoon, a vibrant procession was held, with children carrying placards declaring “We are Carlos”, recalling Saint Carlo Acutis, the young model of holiness for the digital generation.

The event was jointly organized by the Diocesan Liturgy Commission, represented by its secretary Fr. Paul Raj, and the Vocation Promotion Commission, represented by its secretary Fr. Nepolean Albert. The day concluded with a solemn valedictory Mass presided over by Bishop Sagayaraj of Thanjavur, together with more than 40 priests and numerous religious.

The Jubilee of Altar Servers in Thanjavur echoed the universal Church’s call during Jubilee 2025: to walk together in faith, to celebrate with joy, and to inspire the next generation to serve Christ and His Church with dedication. Across the world, dioceses are marking this Holy Year through pilgrimages, catechetical congresses, youth rallies, and parish missions, all aimed at renewing the spirit of faith and communion.