Chennai Archdiocese Youth Celebrate 1,550th Day of Online Rosary

Chennai, September 1, 2025 — The Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore, spanning the northern Thondai region of Tamil Nadu from the Bay of Bengal coast to the hills of Thiruthani, marked a remarkable milestone as its youth celebrated the 1,550th day of online rosary prayer on 23 August at the Santhome National Shrine Basilica of St. Thomas.

The Archdiocesan Youth Commission, established in 1971, has long fostered vibrant initiatives, with successive youth directors shaping its mission. Since taking charge in 2021, Fr. Ronald Richard has implemented bold development plans. He introduced spiritual and lifestyle challenges such as the daily rosary, daily Mass, and weight-loss challenge, while also founding groups to sharpen youth talents in prayer, media, choir, dance, public speaking, printing, and political awareness.

For the first time, youth groups from all 132 parishes were registered under the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM). Weekly sports competitions, Bible quizzes, and parish activities continue to keep young people energised, guided by a model of 50% spiritual work, 30% social service, and 20% cultural activity.

When the pandemic struck in 2021, Fr. Richard launched the Annai Mary Prayer Group on 16 May to sustain youth spiritually. Under the voluntary leadership of Mr. Regilan, the group began daily online prayer services on 24 May. These prayers became the cornerstone of youth involvement, growing steadily to 100 days, 200 days, one year, 550 days, and now over four years.

The group’s major initiatives include a 24-hour rosary held annually since 2021 and the Marian devotion programme “In the Embrace of Our Mother” in 2022, 2024, and 2025, during which a statue of Mary visited parishes across deaneries. Pilgrimages, Lenten Way of the Cross services, and the creative competition series “Azhagoviyame” also strengthened participation among youth, children, and adults.

The prayer group operates with a distinctive governance model termed “Authoritarian Federalism,” combining strong coordination with teamwork. Its executive members are selected through interviews and background checks, ensuring commitment and accountability. The group also oversees three subcommittees: the Christ Job Forum for career guidance, the Blessed Carlo Tech Team for digital skills, and the St. Francis de Sales Media Apostolate for critical thinking and responsible online presence.

Milestone celebration

The 1,550th day celebration at Santhome Basilica featured competitions in solo singing, poster-making, reels, and photography, with Archbishop George Antonysamy presiding over the event and distributing prizes.

The group, now led by President Ms. Ashwini Arokya and Vice President Mr. Bernard Praveen, alongside 14 committed members, continues to receive strong guidance from Youth Director Fr. Ronald Richard. Their dedicated efforts highlight how prayer, creativity, and teamwork are shaping a mission-oriented generation.

By Ms. Ashwini Arokya

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