RTPTCA held its 10th Annual General Body Meeting on 15th February 2026, attended by 30+ member families, reflecting strong participation and community spirit.

The meeting opened with prayer and hymn led by Rev. Fr. Arul Yagappan and was coordinated by the Secretary, Sebastian Periyanayagam. Meeting minutes were recorded by Jeyaraj Kanagaraj, Board Director. Monicka Raja Board Director delivered the welcome address, followed by the 2025 Year Review presented by the President, Nirmaala Francis.

In her address, the President reflected on Jesus’ call to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, emphasizing that the association’s focus is not on the size of events but on growing closer to God each year. She thanked all volunteers, members, and priests for their faithful service and echoed the words of Mother Teresa:
“My work may be just a drop in the ocean, but the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”
She affirmed that all achievements of the past year are by God’s grace and that all glory belongs to Him.

The financial statement was presented by the Treasurer, Christopher Mangalanathan. Jeyan Pushparajan felicitated the outgoing board members Chris and Sebastian for their dedicated service.

The Vice President, Savariyar Innasimithu, inducted Michael Jesudoss and Susai Savarimuthu to the 2026 Board. The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session and a vote of thanks delivered by the Vice President.

Lead Volunteer: Noah Joseph

Youth Volunteers: Anaya Susai, Angelina Peter, Ashik Favio Jose, Asvika Amalrajan, Eugene Vijayan, Joel Jayan, Mahilan Patrick, Riana Austin, Riana Richard, Rishika Jayaraj , Samuela Christopher, Thiran Raja

Adult Volunteers: Caroline Patrick, Benitta Joseph

Write-up By: Benitta Joseph

Our church community recently came together for a meaningful volunteering program to support Dorcas Ministries. Caroline organized the effort by sending out a sign-up sheet for food donations, inviting both adults and youth to participate. The response was heartwarming, as many families eagerly signed up to contribute.

Noah served as the Youth Lead for this program, helping coordinate the collection of items. To make it convenient for everyone, both adults and youth dropped off their donations at Noah’s house. Over the weeks, generous contributions filled the space — including peanut butter, flour, sugar, oil, soup, noodles, as well as gently used clothes and shoes.

Although our original drop-off date had to be postponed due to a snowstorm, the delay did not dampen our spirits. Once the weather cleared, we were finally able to deliver all the donated items to Dorcas Ministries.

This volunteering program not only provided essential supplies to families in need but also strengthened our sense of community and teamwork. It was a wonderful example of youth leadership, service, and generosity in action.

Donated Items: Sugar, Flour, Vegetable Oil, Chicken noodle, Tomato Soup, Jiffy Cornbread Mix, Pasta Sauce, Pancake Mix & Syrup, Black Bean Bag, Peanut Butter, Canned Peas, Canned Beans, Canned Fruits, New and Gently used clothes, Kids shoes

Date: Dec 13^th, 2025 Saturday between 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM at  200 BellaRose Lake Way, Garner, NC 27529

Youth Volunteers: Amizhtha Mani, Amuthan Mani, Anaya Susai, Angelina Peter, Asvika Amalarajan, Chrishan Michael, Eugene Vijayan, Evelyn Jinu, Johan Leo, Johanna Vijay, Lauren Xavier , Nora Marquies , Riana Austin, Rishika Jayaraj, Samuela Chris, Tennie Jeyan

Write-up By: Tennie Jeyan

We were blessed with an incredible opportunity to volunteer at BellaRose Nursing Home, a long-term care facility for the elderly. As we walked in, we were filled with anticipation, ready to share what we had been practicing and preparing for over a month. The residents slowly gathered, eagerly awaiting our performance. We were given an hour to entertain them and bring Christmas joy, so we presented dances, carols, and even a puppet show that had been carefully prepared for weeks.

Our program began with a set of festive Christmas carols led by Mr. Jeyan Pushparajan along with our youth. We could see the happiness on the residents’ faces as they clapped and sang along to the familiar tunes. Mrs. Maria Gnanspragasam dressed up as Santa Claus, which brought even more laughter as she walked around greeting residents, shaking hands, and spreading cheer. I was even pulled aside and asked when we were going to sing again — a simple question that showed just how much they enjoyed it.

Next, we performed a joyful musical dance depicting the Nativity story, choreographed by Mrs. Genrose Hirudayaswamy. The dancers beautifully brought the story of Christmas to life in a way that was both meaningful and entertaining.

Then we presented a Bharatanatyam dance, choreographed by Mrs. Maria Gnanspragasam, which was truly divine to watch. The dancers gracefully shared the beauty of our culture and heritage.

After that, Evelyn Jinu delivered a heartfelt message reminding us of the true spirit of Christmas — love, compassion, giving, and being present for one another.

We then performed an Indian folk dance choreographed by Mrs. Nancy Mani. This lively performance was full of color, rhythm, and energy. The dancers’ bright costumes and joyful movements filled the room with excitement.

Finally came the showstopper: a hilarious and lively puppet show curated by Mrs. Caroline Patrick. It illustrated a funny Christmas family moment and was filled with dances and laughter, making it the perfect ending to our program.

As the event came to an end, some of us helped escort residents back to their rooms. Although finding the right rooms was a bit challenging, it became one of the most meaningful parts of the day. As we walked with them, they shared stories about their lives, families, and cherished memories. Many told us how much they enjoyed our performances. These conversations reminded us that sometimes the smallest gestures create the greatest impact.

-Nirmaala Francis, President

Dear RTPTCA Families,
We are deeply thankful for your support this past year—through your contributions, volunteering, and participation! Your prayers and involvement mean so much.

Thank You, Lord, for blessing us in 2025. We pray for continued blessings for all RTPTCA families and their loved ones in 2026. Let us continue to keep our focus on Him, His glory, and the wonderful plans He has for us.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

Wishing you all a very blessed and joyful New Year 2026!

RTP Tamil Catholic members participated in a volunteering event at the Durham Food Bank, located at 2700 Angier Ave, Durham, NC 27703 on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

Here is the list of volunteers who took part in this activity:

Youth Volunteers:
Eugene Vijayan (Leader), Annya Susai, Ashik Favio Joseph Raj, Ashvika Amala Rajan, Evelyn Jinu, Jenelle Vijay, Johanna Vijay, Lauren Xavier, Mac Amala, Mahilan Pancras, Riana Austin, Samuela Christopher, Tennie Amala, Thiran Raja

Adult Volunteers:
Amala Kuna Jeyan, Austin Maria Antony, Joseph Raj Maria Thomas, Maria Gnanaprakasam, Prabha Vijay, Savariyar Innasimuthu, Vijay Lawrence, Vijayan Muthuraman

Here is beautiful writeup from youth Leader Eugene.

Food Bank Volunteering

By: Eugene Vijayan

The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina in Durham supports people in need by providing food and other essentials. The RTP Tamil Catholic youth volunteering group visited the Food Bank at  2700 Angier Ave, Durham, NC 27703on October 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. Fourteen youth volunteers and Eight chaperones from our group participated in this effort.

When we first arrived, the instructor guided us to the wash area to wash our hands with soap. Then we put on gloves and gathered in a circle to receive instructions. The instructor introduced us to another group visiting the Food Bank for the first time and explained how many states they are partnered with. After the briefing, we moved to the warehouse to sort and pack various fruits and vegetables, such as capsicums and chilies.

We were divided into four groups to begin packing. One person held the bag while another filled it with vegetables until the scale reached three pounds. Then we tied the bags and placed them in large cardboard boxes. We followed the same process for the capsicums as well.

By the end of our shift at 12:00 noon, we had packed approximately 4,500 pounds of chilies and capsicums. After cleaning up, we gathered in the front office to listen to the instructor’s closing remarks.

By Venista Dharmaraj

This year RTPTCA Vacation Bible School, themed “Frame It – Frame Your Life with God,” invited children and youth to see their lives through the lens of faith. Over five spiritually enriching days, they discovered how God’s Word and love can shape the way we live, think, and grow.

About 30 children enrolled and participated across five tracks, guided by dedicated teachers and leads. The Elementary group (Grades 1–5) explored daily themes of God’s Word, Relationship, Actions, Guidance, and Perspective through Bible stories, crafts, memory verses, and songs. The Middle School group (Grades 6–8), anchored in Psalm 1:1–3, studied the lives of Daniel, Joseph, Saul, and Peter, reflecting on how to walk with the Lord, stand for what is right, and choose good company.

The week concluded with a joyful Celebration Day, where students showcased memory verses, enjoyed teacher skits, Bible quizzes, games, and a pizza party. Each child left with a gift pack of biblical verses as a keepsake.

VBS 2025 was truly a week of faith, fellowship, and joy—an experience beautifully framed in the hearts of our children. We sincerely thank all our teachers for their dedication and all families for their support and trust.

This event is about writing letters to lonely elderly people. It was held on September 27, 2025, at Ed Yerha Park, 1216 Jenks Carpenter Rd, Cary, NC 27519. Anaya Susai led this event.

Participants are:

Arock Raja ,Arvin Dharmaraj ,Asvika Amalarajan, Anaya Susai, Davin Dharmaraj, Evelyn jinu , Jebin Anton Rousseau, Jeyenya Tennie Jeyan , Josanth Maclor jeyan, Mahilan Pancras, Riana Austin,Samuela Christopher, Thiran Raja

Org Name : https://loveforourelders.org/

Here is beautiful writeup from Anaya:

By Anaya Susai

We went to the park because we wanted a nice place to sit and write letters. These letters were for elderly people living in nursing homes or retirement communities—people who might not have family visiting them often. Writing to them was the reason we went, and it turned out to be a really fun and meaningful activity.

It was nice to read about the people we were writing to. We saw their names and thought about all the things they might have seen and done in their lives. That made it easy to start writing. We shared simple details about ourselves—our favorite things to do, special memories, and little stories. We tried to find ways to connect with them, even just through words on paper.

The whole purpose of the letters was to make these seniors feel special and loved. We knew that a small note could bring a big smile to someone who feels lonely, especially those without family nearby. It felt wonderful knowing our words would reach them and remind them that someone cares. It was truly a beautiful day of sharing kindness and making real connections with others.

Writing these letters taught us more than we expected. Our organization helped us understand the true value of giving our time to others. This project taught us about social responsibility—caring for people in our community, especially those who might be forgotten or feel alone. We learned that every person has value, no matter their age or where they live.

By taking the time to write, we realized that being a good citizen means being kind and making sure everyone feels included and loved. This project gave us an important lesson: even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world. ❤️❤️❤️

By: Karol Joel, Jayan

This year, we organized a pilgrimage to visit Belmont Abbey Basilica, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and St. Matthew Catholic Church in North Carolina. The pilgrimage is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, during the day. Mr. Chris will lead this year’s pilgrimage, which has attracted many participating families, and 19 families have joined. We will travel to Belmont Abbey Basilica in our vehicles, aiming to arrive in time for the 11 a.m. Mass. Belmont Abbey Basilica has been designated as a historic site in North Carolina. On July 27, 1998, the Vatican issued a decree elevating the abbey church at Belmont to the rank of a minor basilica. The church features a baptismal font carved from a stone upon which enslaved African Americans were once sold in the North Carolina market.

After the 11 a.m. Mass, we visited a nearby grotto dedicated to Mother Mary’s devotion, where we prayed the rosary. Mr. Chris arranged a delicious lunch for us, which we enjoyed from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Haid Ballroom near the church. Following lunch, Brother Edward gave us a tour of Belmont Abbey Basilica. We learned a great deal about the Basilica, and the tour was very educational. Finally, at 3 p.m., we went to St. Patrick’s Cathedral for the Divine Mercy rosary.

On March 17, 1938, St. Patrick’s Day, the first consecrated Catholic church in North Carolina was established. We attended an evening Mass at St. Matthew Catholic Church at 5 p.m. This church serves 11,000 registered families and has over 34,000 parishioners, earning it the title of a Catholic megachurch. After Mass, we enjoyed refreshments followed by dinner at a banquet hall at St. Matthew’s.

Once the pilgrimage concluded at 6:30 p.m., we packed up and headed back home. It was a meaningful way to express our devotion to God, and everyone truly appreciated the experience. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for all to feel God’s grace.

If you want to learn more about these churches, click on the following links:

• Belmont Abbey Basilica – https://belmontabbey.org/
• St. Patrick Cathedral – https://www.stpatnc.org/
• St. Matthew Catholic Church – https://stmatthewcatholic.org/
• Belmont Abbey Tour – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PiWyxNL-IU&t=35s

RTPTCA hosted CPR training at Holy Cross Church, Durham, on Sept 9th — and what an amazing day it was! With 26 participants, the energy was high and the learning invaluable.

Why CPR Matters
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a lifesaving skill that keeps blood circulating and oxygen flowing when someone’s heart stops or breathing ceases. It acts as a vital bridge until emergency medical services arrive, reducing the risk of permanent brain damage. Beyond technique, CPR training builds confidence — empowering ordinary people to step in and make a lifesaving difference during emergencies.

Our fantastic young trainers — pre-med students from UNC Chapel Hill — made the 2-hour session fun, clear, and hands-on. From CPR basics to using an AED, everyone (kids and adults alike!) gained skills and confidence to act in an emergency.

Best surprise? We discovered an AED kit right in the Narthex of Holy Cross Church — something many had never noticed before!

Huge thanks to all who joined in. Together, we’re not just learning skills — we’re preparing to save lives.