The story of the Don Bosco Shrine began long before its consecration, as a cherished dream nurtured by Monsignor Louis Mathias and the Salesians. Initially functioning as a sub-station of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Perambur, the parish of Ayanavaram covered a vast expanse of nearly 25 square kilometers, from Sayani to Padi and Mannurpet.

On December 4, 1966, the area was declared an independent parish under the Salesian administration, with Fr. Augustine Moolacherry SDB as its first leader. The early days, however, were fraught with challenges. The site was low-lying and prone to waterlogging, necessitating substantial land rehabilitation. Tons of rubble and sand were brought in to elevate the ground, and basic roads were constructed to meet the pressing needs of the parishioners.

The initial chapel, a modest structure with thatched extensions, quickly became inadequate for the growing Catholic population. Recognizing the need for a more fitting place of worship, Fr. Adaikalaswamy Mariadurai spearheaded efforts to secure funds for a permanent shrine. Through the unyielding support of the Archbishop and the Salesian Province, construction began. Despite numerous hurdles, the shrine was completed and consecrated in 1978, a symbol of resilience and faith.

Today, the Don Bosco Shrine is more than just a Church; it is the vibrant heart of a flourishing Catholic community. The parish, home to approximately 4,500 faithful and nearly 1,000 families, thrives under the enduring guidance of the Salesian priests and the active collaboration of the laity.

The shrine itself is a stunning structure complemented by a well-equipped parish hall, where community events and spiritual programs are held. A hallmark of the parish is its meticulous organization. Responsibilities are clearly structured among the faithful, and the parish council plays a pivotal role in guiding both spiritual and administrative affairs.

The liturgical life is particularly vibrant. Holy Eucharist celebrations are marked by reverent participation, beautiful hymns, and well-organized services that foster a deeply prayerful atmosphere. Parishioners, young and old alike, contribute to the shrine’s spiritual vitality. Altar servers, youth groups, and Anbiams (Basic Christian Communities) work tirelessly to strengthen the bonds of faith and fellowship.

The influence of the shrine extends far beyond its immediate parish boundaries. The T.V. Nagar substation, under the shrine's care, benefits from extensive pastoral services and support. Education also remains a cornerstone of the Salesian mission in Ayanavaram. The Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, strongly tied to the parish, educates nearly 500 students, ensuring that the Salesian spirit of holistic development and education continues to flourish.

The Don Bosco Shrine in Ayanavaram is more than a brick-and-mortar structure; it is a living monument to the Salesian charism of education, spiritual formation, and community engagement. The dedication of generations of Salesian priests, coupled with the tireless efforts of the laity, has shaped the parish into a vibrant hub of faith and service.

As it continues to grow and adapt to the needs of its people, the shrine remains true to its original vision: a temple dedicated to Don Bosco, a monument to his enduring legacy, and a beacon of hope and devotion in the heart of Chennai. The thriving parish life—marked by active participation, spiritual depth, and community engagement—ensures that this legacy will inspire and impact generations to come.

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