Throughout the year, Redemptorist Fathers across Tamil Nadu undertake parish missions that bring profound renewal and spiritual revitalization to local Catholic communities. Recently, the Redemptorists of the Province of Bangalore, particularly those from the Tamil Nadu zone, brought their zeal and pastoral care to St. Francis Xavier Church in Kovilur, Dharmapuri—the diocese’s oldest and most historic parish.
St. Francis Xavier Church is not only a beloved spiritual home but also a historical treasure, serving the faithful for over 100 years, with Catholic roots in the region dating back more than 300 years. Known as the “mother church” of the Dharmapuri Diocese, the parish holds a relic of the Holy Cross of Jesus, enriching its deep heritage.
The mission, led by Fr. Kaspar, C.Ss.R, and Fr. John Paul, C.Ss.R., included personal visits to all 400 parish families, fostering a spirit of unity, renewal, and spiritual growth. Throughout this time, hundreds attended, with the final day dedicated to honoring Our Lady. The missionaries focused on reviving the Novena Devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, a significant Redemptorist devotion, after discovering an old but faded icon of Our Mother. The Redemptorist missionaries sponsored a new icon for the parish, ensuring that the rich legacy of devotion could continue in vibrant form.
Fr. Arokia Sami, the parish priest of St. Francis Xavier Church, played a key role in preparing the parish for the mission. His heartfelt welcome set a warm tone for the Redemptorists, and his thorough preparations reflected his dedication to his parishioners. Fr. Arokia Sami distributed invitation handbills well in advance, inviting the faithful to join in this time of grace, and worked diligently with the Redemptorists to design and provide a Mission Invitation card to every family during home visits. His prayers for the success of the mission, along with his consistent support, added greatly to the mission’s impact.
On the final day, a grand procession brought the new icon to the parish church, led by Fr. Christopher Louis, C.Ss.R., Provincial Consultor. Parishioners walked in unison, carrying copies of the icon as a personal keepsake of this meaningful renewal. Redemptorist priests in their pastoral year from Bangalore—Frs. Sebastian, Nidhin, Jackson, and Vivek—joined in this special celebration, lending their presence and support.
The timing of this mission added further significance, taking place on November 9, a day of dual importance as the universal Church commemorates the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, while the Redemptorists worldwide celebrate their founding. The day was crowned by the presence of the Bishop of Dharmapuri, Most Rev. Dr. Lawrence Pius, who joined in blessing the new chapter of renewal and Marian devotion.
For the parishioners of Kovilur, this mission has brought spiritual nourishment and a renewed bond with Our Lady. The heartfelt commitment of the Redemptorists, joined by Fr. Arokia Sami’s welcoming spirit and dedication, has left a lasting impact, reminding the faithful of the powerful intercession of Our Mother of Perpetual Help and the enduring legacy of the Redemptorist mission.
Fr. Michael Kaspar, C.Ss.R.
