Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore Launches 5th National March for Life with Call to Uphold Human Dignity

Chennai, April 2, 2026: The Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore formally inaugurated India’s 5th National March for Life on March 29 with a solemn and prayer-filled celebration at Our Lady of Health, Little Mount, setting the tone for a renewed commitment to the dignity and sanctity of human life.

The inauguration, led by Archbishop George Antonysamy, drew clergy, religious, and lay faithful into a reflective gathering marked by prayer and visible signs of solidarity, including the distribution of pro-life caps among participants.

Coinciding with Palm Sunday, the event began with a Way of the Cross led by Fr Joseph Felix. Centered on the theme of sustaining and upholding life, the devotion fostered a contemplative spirit ahead of the formal proceedings.

In his homily, Archbishop Antonysamy issued a strong pastoral appeal to uphold the gift of life, drawing from the Gospel message of Christ who came to offer life in its fullness. He urged the faithful to bear witness to the truth with compassion, emphasising the Christian responsibility to defend life while promoting justice and love.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Archbishop unveiled the official logo and banner for the upcoming national event, which were formally received by members of the Pro-Life team, including priests and representatives of CHARIS, represented locally by the Madras Service of Communion in collaboration with the archdiocese.

The initiative has garnered support from several lay movements, including Jesus Youth and Missionary Families of Christ, highlighting a broad-based effort to promote a culture of life across communities.

In a significant step towards strengthening grassroots engagement, around 140 Pro-Life Cell volunteers from various parishes were commissioned during the event, marking a renewed push for local-level advocacy and awareness.

The Archdiocese is set to host the 5th National March for Life on August 8 and 9, 2026, inviting the faithful across the country to participate through prayer, formation, and active promotion of respect for human dignity.

The inauguration concluded with a sense of spiritual resolve, as participants looked ahead to the national gathering with a shared commitment to prayerful witness and the defence of life at every stage.

By Catholic Connect Reporter