Lucknow: St. Fidelis Church in Lucknow came alive with joy and devotion as it hosted the “Jubilee of Hope” on October 12, drawing over 250 children from nine parishes across the diocese. Organized by the St. Fidelis Youth, the event aimed to nurture faith and spiritual understanding among children through a series of Bible-based competitions inspired by the Gospel of John.
The day began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Fr. Dominic Pinto, Director of the Lucknow Diocesan Youth Commission, along with Fr. Simon Xalxo, Parish Priest of St. Fidelis Church. In his sermon, Fr. Pinto urged the young participants to cultivate gratitude, reminding them to “Thank God for His blessings at all times.” The liturgy set a reflective and celebratory tone for the day’s activities.
Following the Mass, the children engaged enthusiastically in a variety of competitions designed to blend learning, creativity, and faith. Activities included a Bible Quiz, Drawing and Colouring, Group Singing, Fashion Show, Monoacting, and a Recorded Skit, all centered around the teachings and stories of the Gospel of John. The Monoacting Competition, which featured a performance depicting Jesus healing the blind man, delivered a resonant message of hope and new beginnings, leaving a lasting impression on participants and attendees alike.
The St. Fidelis Youth also organized energetic games and action songs, ensuring that the children remained engaged and spirited throughout the event. The Champion of Champions Trophy was awarded to the Friends of Jesus group from St. Dominic Savio Church, judged by Mrs. Judith Ann Benedict and Mr. Abhishek Benedict, in recognition of their outstanding performance and teamwork.
The celebration concluded with heartfelt speeches by Fr. Pinto and Fr. Xalxo, who expressed joy at the children’s participation and offered prayers for future events that would continue to inspire faith and community among young parishioners.
The Jubilee of Hope at St. Fidelis Church successfully reinforced a sense of unity, faith, and spiritual growth among the youth, providing them with an opportunity to engage deeply with the Gospel while celebrating fellowship and creativity within the diocesan community.