It was a great joy and blessing for the confreres and the faithful to receive the relic of St. Gerard Majella at the Chennai community from 26th to 28th September. The relic, brought from the Coimbatore community, remained with us for three grace-filled days. We thank Fr. Kennedy, Rector of the community, for accompanying and guiding this spiritual event.
Day 1 – Warm Welcome
On the first day, we took the relic to the parish at Kasimedu, in the Archdiocese of Mylapore, Chennai. Fr. Ambrose, the parish priest, warmly welcomed the relic of St. Gerard. As it coincided with the parish’s feast and novena days, a large number of faithful attended and received blessings through the intercession of St. Gerard. As we carried the relic, many people touched it with devotion and prayed earnestly.
Day 2 – Special Blessing
On the second day, Fr. Kennedy led a special and meaningful service with the relic and imparted St. Gerard’s blessing to the faithful who gathered in prayer.
Day 3 – Solemn Procession and Mass
On the third and final day, we had a grand procession and a solemn Mass. Fr. Kennedy, Rector of the community, and Fr. Robert, the parish priest, together with the BCC group, led a small procession from the entrance of the church to the altar, where St. Gerard’s relic was placed on a special altar prepared by our youth.
The solemn Mass was celebrated by Fr. Kennedy and concelebrated by Fr. Robert. During the Sunday homily, Fr. Kennedy also shared briefly about the life and holiness of St. Gerard Majella.
At the end of the Mass, we reverently carried St. Gerard’s photo and relic from the altar. A solemn procession was held around the church, during which the faithful prayerfully and devoutly sought God’s blessings through the intercession of St. Gerard. The procession concluded back inside the church, where the final blessing was imparted to the faithful. After the general blessing, individuals came forward to receive the special blessing of St. Gerard Majella.
Words of Thanks
We express our sincere thanks to Fr. Robert, the parish priest, and the youth who worked tirelessly day and night to decorate the special altar. We are also grateful to all the people who helped organise the event so beautifully and meaningfully. A heartfelt thanks to all the community fathers for their constant support and encouragement.
Chennai Community
