June 15, 2024

From 24 to 27 May 2024, the AICUF had its Centenary Inauguration Celebrations at St. Joseph’s College (SJC), Tiruchi. It was graced by Most Rev. Savarimuthu Arockiaraj, Bishop of Tiruchi, Fr. Stanislaus D’Souza, President of JCSA, Fr. Thomas Amirtham, Provincial of MDU, Fr. Jebamalai Irudayaraj, Provincial of CEN, Fr. Pavulraj Michael, Rector of SJC, Fr. K. Amal, Secretary of SJC, Fr. Jesu Benjamine J. (DUM)., the National AICUF Advisor and a vibrant gathering of nearly 250 AICUF members from various Indian States.

On 24 May, the first day’s events began with a state-wise procession led by the Tamil Nadu State, followed by a Holy Mass celebrated by the Bishop. Then there was a traditional food exhibition. On the second day, the Justice Kurian Joseph gave a keynote address followed by interactive sessions with senior AICUF members and former national advisors like Dr. J. Amalorpavanathan, Dr. Daniel Ravindran, Advocate Henry Tiphagne and Fr. Cedric Prakash. Mrs. Anie Rose and Sr. Roselin OSM made presentations on AICUF from the State Women AICUFers’ perspective. In the afternoon, Fr. Selvin Raj (AND) facilitated participants in group work to trace their State histories.

On the third day, Fr. Dionysius, Provincial of KAR, celebrated the Holy Mass and Fr. Selvakumar SDB spoke on Socio-spiritual and Social Media for Youth. The State-wise reports highlighting unique activities and initiatives undertaken were presented.

The Final day began with an inter-religious prayer. Fr. Henry Jerome spoke on Youth as the Hope and Transformative Agents. Then the different teams discussed practical matters. In conclusion, the AICUF Centenary Inauguration Celebrations served as a momentous occasion fostering spiritual enrichment, cultural exchange, and critical dialogue.

Parthasarathi Narayanasamy