The Feast of Velankanni was celebrated by the Adelaide Tamil Catholic Community on 10th September 2023 at Annunciation Church, Hectorville. Supported by Fr Anthoni Adimai, the Chaplain to the Tamil Community this celebration is a very special annual event shared by this community.

The flag hoisting Mass was held on Friday, September 1, 2023, followed by the Rosary with nine consecutive days of novenas held in various houses.  Father Anthoni sincerely thanked the families that hosted these prayer evenings and those who joined in this prayerful worship as the statue of Our Lady of Velankanni travelled from family to family during this time.

On Sunday September 10th, 2023, at 2.30 p.m., the celebration commenced with a procession of the statue of Our Lady of Velankanni on the St Joseph’s Hectorville Primary School oval. The Feast day was attended by more than 200 faithful. The rosary was recited in Hindi, Tamil, English, Konkani and Malayalam, and the statue was processed into the church.  

The Mass began with the traditional Aarathi – with the altar prepared with much love and care - with flowers, lights and decorations. The choir was exquisite! showing the  Tamil community's music and the talent from the various parishioners. 

The main celebrant was Father Matthew Newman,  was joined by seven Indian Priests. The homily centered around our Mother Mary, her birth and devotion; and the beautiful faith the Indian community has brought to Adelaide particularly Hectorville this day. Father Mathew also took the opportunity to thank the missionary priests for their faith, their courage, and their strength in a sometimes challenging climate (when ministering abroad)– the people responded with spontaneous applause which showed that his words had touched the grateful hearts of our faithful here in Adelaide.

At the end of the Mass, the flag was lowered, and everyone was invited for fellowship and hospitality after the Mass. A very beautiful celebration for Our Lady of Good Health!