Pilgrims of Hope: Indian Diocese Takes Initiative to Form Young Disciples in Jubilee 2025

As part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, the Diocese of Dindigul in Tamil Nadu, South India, organized a Children’s Faith Formation Convention on June 7, 2025, at St. Mary's Higher Secondary School Campus, Dindigul.

The event brought together more than 850 participants, including students from all parishes across the diocese, along withcatechism teachers, religious sisters, and lay collaborators.

Presiding over the event, Bishop P. Thomas Paulsamy, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Dindigul, encouraged students to grow in faith during this Jubilee Year and to live as true Christian witnesses of Jesus. “Let your lives be a testimony to your faith in Christ,” he said.

Fr. Benedict Analin, Regional Secretary of the Catechetical Commission, spoke on the theme "Children as Pilgrims of Hope." He emphasized, “The Church has always championed the protection of children,” and reminded the gathering that we are all beloved children of God, called to care for all living beings and the Earth. “We are born not just to dominate the Earth, but to journey with it—safeguarding and nurturing it. When we walk in prayer and faith, the Kingdom of God blossoms among us,” he added.

The convention began with a warm welcome from Fr. A. Soosai Arockiadoss, Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. He explained the purpose of the convention, referencing the call of Pope Francis for the faithful to renew their life of faith during the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. He affirmed that the event was organized to help students grow and deepen their faith during this special year.

Following lunch, students from various parishes showcased cultural performances that reflected on themes of faith and hope.

All student participants received gifts, and the coordinators who accompanied them were honored for their service.

Fr. T. Sahayaraj, Vicar General of the Diocese and in charge of the Diocesan Seminarians, and Fr. Marivalan, S.J., Rector of St. Mary's Residence, delivered congratulatory messages to all participants.

Fr. R. Maria Ignaci, Jubilee Year Coordinator, Vicar Forane, and Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dindigul, concluded the event with words of gratitude and inspiration.

With inputs from Fr. R. Maria Ignaci, Jubilee Year Coordinator, Vicar Forane, and Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dindigul Diocese.