New Delhi: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) marked a historic moment in Indian Catholic life with a grand Eucharistic Celebration at Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi, commemorating the National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, which gave birth to the Nicene Creed.
The solemn liturgy was presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, and was concelebrated by an assembly of Cardinals, Major Archbishops, Archbishops, Bishops, and numerous priests from across the country. In his homily, Archbishop Girelli reflected on the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed, underscoring its vital role in promoting Christian unity, faith, and witness in the modern world.
Most Rev. Anil Couto, Secretary General of the CBCI and Archbishop of Delhi, welcomed the faithful gathered for the occasion, highlighting the Jubilee as an opportunity to deepen spiritual communion across denominations. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Church, Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of clergy, religious, and laity who participated in the celebration.
The Eucharistic Celebration drew thousands of faithful from across India, including representatives from the Archdiocese of Delhi, the Archdiocese of Faridabad, and the Diocese of Gurgaon, making it a vivid manifestation of thanksgiving, faith, and ecclesial solidarity.
The event served not only as a celebration of a historical milestone but also as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the unifying vision of the Church, echoing the creed that has shaped Christian theology and practice for 1,700 years.