Vailankanni Institute Launches Online Diploma in Mariology to Expand Marian Formation

Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu, June 8, 2026: In an effort to make Marian studies more accessible to the faithful, Arokia Niketan Institute of Marian Studies, Vailankanni, has launched a one-year online Diploma Course in Mariology in English under the patronage of the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and with the blessings of Bishop T. Sagayaraj of Thanjavur.

The programme is designed to offer religious and lay faithful a deeper understanding of the Blessed Virgin Mary, her role in Salvation History, and the rich tradition of Marian spirituality within the Catholic Church. Organisers said the course seeks to combine systematic theological formation with the nurturing of Marian devotion and Christian discipleship.

Open to Catholics and other Christians between the ages of 25 and 60 who have completed higher secondary education, the diploma programme provides an opportunity for participants to pursue theological studies while continuing their personal, family and professional commitments.

Classes will be conducted online every Monday and Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The programme is being coordinated by Fr. Peter, who currently oversees the online initiative.

According to the Institute, participants will benefit from expert faculty members, comprehensive course materials and a structured learning experience. Those who successfully complete the programme will receive a diploma certificate.

The launch follows the success of the Institute’s Tamil-language online Mariology course conducted last year, which attracted 220 participants, including priests, women religious and lay faithful from different parts of India. The strong response highlighted a growing interest in Marian theology and faith formation among Catholics.

Arokia Niketan Institute said the new English-language programme is part of its ongoing mission to promote Marian scholarship and spiritual formation from Vailankanni, one of the world’s most prominent Marian pilgrimage centres, often referred to as the “Lourdes of the East.”

The course fee has been set at ₹1,000, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to making theological education affordable and accessible to a broad range of learners.

Applications will remain open until June 20, 2026. Interested candidates may obtain further information and application assistance through WhatsApp at 73387 98441.

By extending Marian formation beyond geographical boundaries, the Institute hopes to bring the spiritual heritage of Vailankanni to participants across India and abroad, fostering a deeper appreciation of Marian theology, devotion and the Church’s mission in the contemporary world.

By Catholic Connect Reporter