Kanjirapally: The Diocese of Kanjirapally witnessed a moving celebration of faith, family, and gratitude as Thanal 2K25 a gathering of couples marking the golden jubilee of their marriage was organized under the leadership of the Diocesan Family Apostolate. The event was hosted at St. Mary’s Church, Podimattom, where about 250 faithfuls joined in the joyful occasion.
The day began with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Dr. Sebastian Kollamkunnel, Syncellus of the Diocese, invoking blessings upon the jubilarians and their families. Following the Eucharistic celebration, participants gathered at St. Mary’s Parish Hall for the official ceremony, presided over by Mrs. Jiji Jacob Puliyamkunnel, President of the Diocesan Mathruvedi.
Rev. Mar Jose Pulickal inaugurated Thanal 2K25 and delivered the keynote blessing address. In his homily, he reminded the gathering that old age is not a burden but a divine gift a time to embrace life with hope and to accumulate virtues that lead to eternal joy. He urged parents to continue being channels of blessings for their children and emphasized that even in pain and struggles, there lies a path toward spiritual enrichment.
As a gesture of love and appreciation, every couple celebrating their golden jubilee was honored with mementos and gifts. The hall resonated with gratitude as testimonies were shared, notably by the couple Sr. Philip and Rosamma Manimalakunnel, who reflected on their journey of love, faith, and perseverance.
Warm greetings were extended by Fr. Thomas Kappiangal and C. Anna Maria CMC, while Fr. Mathew Olikkal, Director of the Diocesan Family Apostolate, guided the program with spiritual reflections. Diocesan Matruvedi office bearers including Swapna Roy Kadanthode, Tessie Sajeev Muttath, Alice Baby Pazhukunnel, Jubi Antony Vezhambasseril, Benzie Joshi Valliyamthadam, Lovely Kalapurakkal, Mini Vengathanam, Annie Kurishumoottil, and Jollamma Pazhanilat joined in offering leadership. Animator C. Rosmi SABS and Brother Kevin coordinated the day’s proceedings with dedication.
The celebration concluded with a collective prayer for the continued health and grace of the jubilarians, as the faithful left the venue with renewed inspiration to cherish family life as a sacred mission.