Prison Ministry India – Tamil Nadu celebrated its 25th State Conference and Silver Jubilee on February 24–25, 2026, at the Pastoral Centre, Santhome, Chennai, under the inspiring theme, “Thy Kingdom Come” (Luke 11:2). The landmark event brought together 255 volunteers representing 18 dioceses across Tamil Nadu, making it a memorable celebration of faith, service, and commitment to prison ministry.
The conference was graced by Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. George Antonysamy of the Chennai–Mylapore Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, Chairman of Prison Ministry India – Tamil Nadu, and former Chairmen Most Rev. Dr. Peter Remigius and Most Rev. Dr. Neethinathan. Priests, religious brothers and sisters, and lay volunteers from across the state gathered to reflect on the ministry’s journey over the past 25 years and renew their commitment to serving prisoners and their families.
The inaugural sessions featured a keynote address by Honourable Justice A. D. Jegadish Chandra of the Madras High Court. Distinguished guests, including Mrs. Nikhila Nagendran, Superintendent of Central Women’s Prison, Puzhal, Mr. Natarajan, retired IPS officer and former Director General of Prisons, and Mrs. Kannagi Packiyanathan, retired IAS officer, shared valuable insights and encouraged the ministry’s efforts toward rehabilitation and restorative justice.
The second day of the conference was enriched by the participation of Mr. Sekar, IPS (former Director General of Prisons), Mr. Sagayam, IAS, and Mr. Kanagaraj, Inspector General of Prisons. They highly appreciated the Prison Ministry’s dedicated service and reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in promoting the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into society.
As part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations, participants also enjoyed a fellowship visit to Pulicat, where around 40 delegates joined in a day of recreation and community bonding.
The conference concluded with an inspiring message from Most Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, Chairman of Prison Ministry India – Tamil Nadu, who encouraged volunteers to continue their mission of bringing hope, healing, and dignity to prisoners and their families. The Silver Jubilee celebration ended with prayers of thanksgiving, seeking God’s blessings for the continued growth and service of the Prison Ministry in Tamil Nadu.
