Rosary marathon for world evangelization

(July 22, 2011) A 101-day, non-stop rosary recital for the evangelization of the world and the sanctification of the Church began on Thursday in the southern Indian diocese of Thamarassery, Kerala state. Bishop Remigious Inchananiyil inaugurated the rosary marathon at Bethania Renewal Centre in Pulloorampara. “We hope our chain rosary will help the evangelization of the world, which is in need of the gospel,” said Father James Kiliyananickal, director of the renewal centre. This year’s focus is on the evangelization of the world which is “being conquered by secularism” and thirsts for the gospel, he said, adding that more than 100,000 people would take part in the prayer service. Catholics from Thamarassery diocese’s 117 parishes will take turns to keep the rosary chain going day and night until October 29. Confession and counseling services will also go on simultaneously. The diocese has conducted this special rosary recitation for the past 9 years.