This appointment follows the important amendment made to Canon 588 §2 of the Code of Canon Law by Pope Francis through the Rescriptum ex Audientia Ss.mi dated 18 May 2022. The amendment provides that, with the required authorisation from the Holy See, a non-cleric may assume the leadership of a clerical religious institute.

Building upon this provision, the 29th General Chapter (CG29) of the Salesian Congregation, held on 13 March 2025, expressed a favourable opinion authorising the Rector Major and his Council to make use of the concession granted by the Holy Father. Consequently, a resolution was approved ad experimentum, allowing the office of Rector of a Salesian community to be entrusted to a Salesian Brother without the necessity of priestly ordination.

In harmony with this historic development, Bro. Arunraj Chelladurai was formally installed as the Rector of Don Bosco Provincial House during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. L. Don Bosco SDB, Provincial of the Chennai Province, and concelebrated by Fr. John Alexander SDB, Vice Provincial, Fr. John Britto SDB, Provincial Economer, along with the Rectors and community leaders of the Province. Bro. Arunraj's parents, family members, relatives, and numerous confreres gathered to witness this memorable milestone.

Bro. Arunraj made his first religious profession on 24 May 2007 at the Idaya Deepam Novitiate in the Yelagiri Hills and his perpetual profession on 24 May 2015. Widely appreciated for his vibrant personality, deep Salesian spirit, and commitment to youth ministry, he has distinguished himself as an effective youth animator and a gifted media professional.

Academically, Bro. Arunraj holds a Master's Degree in Visual Communication from Loyola College, Chennai, and a Master's Degree in Pastoral Communication from the Don Bosco Centre of Studies, Manila. Over the years, he has rendered valuable service to the Province in numerous capacities, including Administrator, Manager, Director of the Youth Centre, Assistant Director, Coordinator, and Provincial Delegate for Salesian Brothers. His rich pastoral experience, administrative competence, collaborative leadership, and dedication to the Salesian mission have earned him the confidence and esteem of the Province.

Along with his appointment as Rector, Bro. Arunraj also assumes the responsibility of Province Secretary, further reflecting the confidence reposed in his leadership and organisational abilities.

As the Chennai Province embarks upon this new chapter, the installation of Bro. Arunraj Chelladurai stands as a powerful sign of hope and renewal. We expect this to inspire Salesian Brothers throughout India and the South Asian Region to embrace their vocation with renewed confidence and generosity. The Province entrusts Bro. Arunraj's ministry, guided by Mary Help of Christians and the paternal intercession of St. John Bosco, prays that his leadership may strengthen fraternity, deepen the Salesian mission, and continue to bring Christ's love to the young, especially the poorest and most abandoned.