Anjukottai, a rural village nestled in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu and part of the Diocese of Sivagangai, is a community marked by poverty, casteism, and communalism. Despite these challenges, the people here possess a deep thirst for the Word of God. It was this longing, combined with the Alphonsian spirit and the Scala-like mission experience, which led the Redemptorists to establish a foundation in Anjukottai, along with a shrine dedicated to St. Gerard Majella.
Each year, the parish of Anjukottai celebrates the annual feast of St. Gerard Majella in October. This year, we began our preparations well in advance, working on minor renovations and modifications to the temporary church structure to create a more spiritual atmosphere for the faithful. With the generous support of the Provincial government, as well as donations from sponsors, we were able to refresh the church premises, giving it a much-needed face-lift.
Our preparations for the feast included the purchase of a new statue of St. Gerard, a new palanquin for the car procession, new chairs for the laity, and a fresh coat of paint. The theme for the feast, taken from 2 Peter 1:5-7, reflected the virtues of our beloved saint: “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”
The festivities commenced with the hoisting of the flag on October 13th, followed by daily novenas and Eucharistic celebrations. Each day, special sermons were preached on themes that embodied the virtues of St. Gerard: living with hope, virtue, knowledge, humility, determination, love of God, fraternal care, and unconditional love. After each Mass, the faithful participated in a car procession around the church, holding candles and praying the Litany of St. Gerard. This was followed by Eucharistic adoration and benediction, with fellowship meals provided for all, thanks to the generosity of our parishioners.
A significant moment during the novena was on the third day when, in alignment with the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), No. 308, we erected a crucifix at our church. As GIRM states: “There is also to be a cross, with the figure of Christ crucified upon it, either on the altar or near it, where it is clearly visible to the assembled congregation.” In keeping with Alphonsian spirituality, this crucifix was installed to serve as a visible reminder of Christ’s sacrifice, enhancing the spiritual ambiance and deepening the faith of those gathered.
The highlight of the feast was on October 19th, when the festal Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Devasahayam, Vicar Forane of the R.S. Mangalam vicariate. Many diocesan priests and religious joined us in prayer and celebration. After the Mass, a grand car procession carrying the statue of St. Gerard took place from the church to the Oriyur diversion and back. The procession was a powerful spiritual witness, with the faithful holding candles, praying, and singing hymns as they marched through the streets. The day concluded with a special benediction and a fellowship meal, followed by cultural folk dances that brought joy to all who attended.
On October 20th, we concluded the celebrations with a Thanksgiving Mass and the lowering of the flag, which was brought back to the church in a solemn procession. This year’s feast was truly a time of revival and blessings for our parish. We experienced help and favors from unexpected places, and many witnessed daily miracles. The entire community was spiritually uplifted, and we felt the powerful intercession of St. Gerard Majella throughout the feast.
This year’s celebration will be remembered as a time of renewal, spiritual growth, and unity for the parish of Anjukottai. Through the intercession of St. Gerard, we have been blessed abundantly, and our faith has been strengthened in ways that will resonate for years to come.
The Redemptorist community at Anjukottai
Fr. Kaspar C.Ss.R, Fr. Anbu Anatharaj C.Ss.R., Fr. Clement Josepsh C.Ss.R., Fr. Amrith Kevin C.Ss.R.
