Bangalore Archdiocese

Report : Fr Franklin Dsouza
Photo Courtesy : Fr. Clifford Roshan Pinto

Shivamogga, Oct 5, 2024 : On October 3rd, In a significant step towards spiritual renewal and communal preparation for the Holy Year 2025, approximately 85 priests and religious personnel convened at Sannidhi, the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal Center in Shivamogga, to establish the groundwork for the Jubilee celebrations. This event marks a pivotal moment in the Diocese's journey towards the Jubilee, uniting the clergy and religious in prayer, learning, and reflection.

His Excellency Most Rev. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga, delivered the keynote address, inspiring the gathering with a call to embrace the year of learning and prayer. "We have come together to prepare ourselves for the Holy Year 2025 through a year of learning and praying; let us impart this learning to the faithful of our Diocese. May the Holy Year renew our mission," he said, setting the tone for the Jubilee preparations.

The meeting, part of the Catholic Conference of Bishops of India (CCBI) Jubilee Yātra, was facilitated by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, who emphasized the importance of profound reflection on Vatican II and the spiritual path it offers to the faithful today.

The event was organized by Rev. Dr. Clifford Roshan Pinto, the Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, ensuring that the Diocese of Shimoga is well-prepared for the Jubilee celebrations.

Participants expressed their enthusiasm and spiritual enrichment from the session. Sr. Maria Evelyn AC, a member of the Jubilee 2025 committee, shared her insights: "I have studied the Second Vatican Council in my theology classes, but now I comprehend that it not only produced documents but also provided a roadmap for Christian life and mission."

The Diocese of Shimoga eagerly anticipates engaging the faithful in deeper prayer, learning, and preparation in the months leading up to Jubilee 2025, fostering a renewed sense of mission and commitment to the Church's call.