Tamil Nadu Conference of Religious Fuels Global Eco Movement on Consecrated Day

Chennai, February 5, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu Conference of Religious (TNCRI) marked the Day of Consecrated Life with a grand environmental initiative, “Nature is Godliness”, on February 2 at St. Anne’s Generalate Campus, Madhavaram. Coinciding with the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, the event brought together religious communities, political leaders, and the public in a symbolic commitment to ecological preservation through the planting of 1,000 saplings.

Environmental Stewardship

The event was inaugurated with Thiru S. Sudharsanam, MLA of Madhavaram Constituency, presiding. Dr. S. Inigo Irudayaraj, MLA of Trichy East Constituency, attended as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Fr. Xavier Arulraj, Senior Advocate and Secretary of the Legal Cell - TNLBC, and Fr. S. Antoinsamy, Secretary of TANCEAN, were present as special invitees. In their speeches, they emphasised the urgency of ecological preservation and the role of faith communities in addressing environmental concerns.

Rev. Fr. C. Joe Arun S.J., Chairman of the State Minorities Commission, commended the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment to religious minorities, stating, “The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M. K. Stalin, has shown exceptional concern for religious minorities. Under his leadership, religious communities are accomplishing something unique and spectacular today.” He further announced that one lakh trees would be planted throughout the year by religious sisters in Chennai, reinforcing their long-term environmental commitment.

Silent Peace Rally and Public Meeting

A Silent Peace Rally commenced from Besant Nagar Beach, concluding at the Annai Vailankanni Shrine, Besant Nagar. Rev. Fr. C. Joe Arun S.J. flagged off the rally, which carried the theme “If water rises, paddy will rise; Let’s save water footprints,” highlighting the critical need for water conservation.

A Public Meeting honoured 25 key environmental contributors, facilitated by Sr. Nambikkai SAP, Secretary of TNCRI. Rev. Fr. Jebamalai Raja S.J., Executive Member of TNCRI and Provincial of Jesuit Chennai Province, delivered a powerful speech on sustainable living. The audience was captivated by a Street Play performed by the Tertian Sisters, creatively conveying the importance of environmental awareness.

Way Forward & Spiritual Conclusion

The roadmap for future environmental efforts was outlined by Rev. Fr. Don Bosco SDB, Vice President of TNCRI and Provincial of the Salesian Chennai Province. The event concluded with an oath-taking ceremony led by Rev. Dr. Maria Philomi FBS, President of TNCRI and Superior General of Bon Secours, where participants pledged to continue their efforts for ecological preservation.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Don Bosco SDB, bringing a spiritual conclusion to the day’s events. Rev. Sr. Jebamalai FMM, DCRI President of Chennai Zone, delivered the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and organisers.

The event was jointly organized by

Mother Maria Philomi FBS – President, TNCRI; Superior General, Bon Secours

Father Don Bosco SDB – Vice President, TNCRI; Provincial, Salesian Chennai Province

Mother Fabi Lynnette FSPM – Executive Member, TNCRI; Superior General, Presentation

Mother Clara Vasanthi SSAM – Superior General, St. Anne's Madhavaram

Mother M. Arockiam FSJ – Superior General, Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph

Mother Decla Mary OSM – Superior General, Servants of Mary

This initiative reinforced the significant role of religious communities in ecological advocacy, demonstrating that faith-driven collective action can make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability.

By Fr. Ritchie Vincent