12 April, Madhavaram, Chennai: St. Sebastian’s Church, Madhavaram, celebrated its annual parish feast with prayer, devotion, and active participation of the faithful on 11 and 12 April 2026. The celebrations commenced on Easter Sunday, 5 April 2026, with the traditional flag hoisting, inaugurating a period of spiritual preparation for the parish community.
Following the flag hoisting, a solemn novena was observed, during which eminent preachers guided the faithful through days of reflection and prayer. The central themes of the preparation focused on the renewal of relationships and the strengthening of bonds, encouraging the faithful to rediscover vitality in their relationship with God and with one another.
The parish feast was organised under the able leadership of the Parish Priest, Br. Michael Anand, who coordinated the celebrations with pastoral care and commitment. He was supported by the Assistant Parish Priests, the Parish Council, Anbiyam leaders, the youth, and several pious associations and volunteers, whose collective efforts ensured the smooth and prayerful conduct of the feast.
A significant spiritual moment was the Eucharistic Procession held on 10 April 2026, led by Bishop Jude Paulraj, during which the faithful participated in reverent adoration as the Blessed Sacrament was taken through the parish. The festive Holy Mass on 11 April 2026 was solemnly celebrated by Bishop Singarayar, drawing a large congregation and highlighting the witness of St. Sebastian as a model of faith and perseverance. This was followed by a car procession, during which the statue of St. Sebastian was taken through the surrounding areas, invoking blessings upon the neighbourhoods.
On 12 April 2026, a series of Eucharistic celebrations began early in the morning at 5.00 a.m. and continued until the final Mass at 3.00 p.m. All the Masses on this day were celebrated and concelebrated by Franciscan Friars from across the Province. A good number of friars were present, reflecting the strong spirit of fraternity and shared mission. The celebrations concluded in the evening with the lowering of the flag, led by Br. Xavier Duraiaraj, Minister Provincial.
From the night of 11 April until the evening of 12 April, thousands of faithful visited the parish, participating in liturgical celebrations and personal prayer. The feast served as a moment of spiritual renewal for the parish community, strengthening faith and fostering communion among the people of God.
