Jubilee Temperance Rally Calls for Addiction-Free Lives in Historic Manapadu, Tamil Nadu

Manapadu, Tamil Nadu, Dec 27, 2025: A Jubilee 2025 concluding temperance awareness rally was held at Manapadu, a historic coastal settlement in southern Tamil Nadu, under the auspices of the Thoothukudi Diocese. The initiative formed part of the global Jubilee Year commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, during which the Catholic Church has invited local Churches to offer thanksgiving for pastoral initiatives and to renew their commitment to prayer and service, particularly for those in need.

Occupying a distinctive place in the history of Christianity in India, Manapadu is closely linked to the missionary legacy of St. Francis Xavier. The Holy Cross Shrine, overlooking the Bay of Bengal, is historically associated with his missionary journeys along the Tamil coast, with records noting that several of his letters were written from this location, lending the shrine enduring spiritual, cultural, and historical significance.

Jointly organised by the Immaculate Conception Temperance Society’s De-addiction and Health Ministry and the Manapadu Immaculate Conception Temperance Society, with the coordination of parish priests, the rally began at St. James Church, Manapadu, proceeded via the Holy Spirit Church and the seashore, and culminated at the Holy Cross Shrine.

At the shrine, a solemn Eucharistic celebration was held, during which prayers of thanksgiving were offered for families who have experienced recovery following treatment at de-addiction and rehabilitation centres. Intercessory prayers were also offered for families currently affected by alcoholism and substance abuse, with special intentions for students and young people, entrusting their growth, well-being, and future to God.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Jayanthan D. Grace, Director of the Immaculate Conception Temperance Society’s De-addiction and Health Ministry.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Roosevelt, President of the Thoothukudi District Temperance Society, along with Bro. Russian and local community leaders Valentine Ilango and Siluvai, encouraged students and youth to adopt responsible lifestyles free from alcohol and substance abuse.

As the event coincided with the Christmas and New Year holiday period, a large number of local faithful and pilgrims from neighbouring regions participated in the rally and the Eucharistic celebration, receiving the special Jubilee blessing.

By Catholic Connect Reporter