Breaking Free from the Shackles of Addiction
“The opposite of addiction is not sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection.” – Johann Hari
In today’s world, Addiction has become a pervasive and insidious threat, affecting individuals, families, and communities worldwide. As Pope Francis so aptly puts it, “Addiction is a new form of slavery” (Pope Francis, 2014). The Claretian Missionaries, driven by our commitment to serve the marginalized, have embarked on a mission to provide hope, healing, and liberation to those ensnared by addiction.
MANITHAM LIFE CARE: A Beacon of Hope
Our vision is to establish the Social Mission – ‘MANITHAM LIFE CARE’ (Claretian De-Addiction Ministry) as a shining example of compassion and care for those struggling with addiction. We aim to provide a comprehensive awareness and accompaniment programme, empowering individuals to break free from the shackles of addiction. Our Centre will be a serene haven of peace, harmony, integrity, and faith formation, where individuals can rediscover themselves and embark on a journey of transformation, holistic healing, and new life.
The Threefold Ministry
Our ministry encompasses three vital aspects:
1. Eyes of the Missionary: A vision for freedom, empowering individuals to recognize that God is above all, even addictions.
2. Heart of the Missionary: A sanctuary of compassion, embodying the heart of Christ, and providing empathy, confidentiality, and non-judgmental love.
3. Hands of the Missionary: A ministry of restoration, guiding individuals toward an addiction-free life through prevention, rehabilitation, and re-integration.
Establishment of MANITHAM LIFE CARE
-July 7, 2021: MANITHAM LIFE CARE is officially registered as a Trust, marking the beginning of the Claretian De-Addiction Ministry.
-February 28, 2022: MANITHAM LIFE CARE – Claretian De-Addiction Ministry commences operations in the renovated old building.
-February 9, 2024: MANITHAM LIFE CARE (De-addiction cum Rehabilitation Centre) receives Provisional Registration from the Tamil Nadu State Mental Health Authority, Kilpauk, Chennai.
-June 3, 2024: The Foundation Stone for the new Centre building is laid by Rev. Fr. S. Devadoss CMF, Vicar Provincial, Chennai Claretians, paving the way for holistic treatment facilities.
A new building is constructed to provide a comprehensive De-addiction cum Rehabilitation Centre.
-March 3, 2025: Inaugural Ceremony of the Newly Constructed Manitham Life Care: De-addiction cum Rehabilitation Centre was held. Rev. Fr. S. Jesu Doss CMF, Provincial Superior, Claretian Chennai Province, inaugurates the New Building and Rev. Fr. Joseph Callistus CMF, Provincial Superior, Claretian German Province, unveils the Inaugural Stone. Most Rev. P. Thomas Paulsamy DD, Bishop of Dindigul, blesses the New Building.
Celebrating a New Beginning
The inaugural ceremony was followed by a Thanksgiving Eucharist, a Felicitation Programme, and a Fellowship Meal. The grand event was attended by many priests, religious, people, and well-wishers, making it a truly memorable and grace-filled occasion.
New Face of MANITHAM LIFE CARE Centre
The newly constructed building is a testament to God’s providence and the generosity of our benefactors. The Centre boasts a range of facilities, including:
-A Study cum Prayer Hall for reflection and learning
-A Dormitory for residents
-A Refectory for meals
-A Kitchen for food preparation
-Toilets and bathing facilities
-Nine Individual rooms for administration, staff, medical care, counselling and therapy
We remain ever grateful to God for His gracious providence in providing a good structure and ambience for our social ministry.
Our Heartfelt Acknowledgements.
Join Us on This Journey: A Call to Action
As we embark on this noble endeavour, we humbly request your accompaniment through prayer, encouragement, and support. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we strive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction. Together, let us work towards creating a brighter tomorrow, free from the scourge of addiction.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
Reported By:
Fr. J .Joseph Victor Doss CMF
Director, Manitham Life Care
Dindigul, Tamilnadu
