New Delhi: The Archdiocese of Delhi joyfully marked the Jubilee for clergy and religious with a solemn and vibrant celebration held at the DCC Hall, Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi. The event, themed “Pilgrims of Hope – Jubilee Year Celebration,” served as a tribute to God’s enduring faithfulness and the shared mission of Participation, Mission, and Communion that animates the Church’s life and ministry.
Presided over by Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, the celebration drew together bishops, priests, and members of various religious congregations from across the Archdiocese. The day’s events included a solemn Eucharistic celebration, thought-provoking reflections, cultural performances, and a fellowship meal that fostered unity and gratitude among all participants.
In his homily, Archbishop Couto expressed heartfelt appreciation for the selfless service of priests and religious, who continue to embody Christ’s compassion through their pastoral and social ministries. He called on them to remain steadfast in prayer and collaboration, working together for God’s glory and the common good, especially during times of national and societal challenges. “Our collective witness,” he said, “must always radiate the hope of Christ and strengthen the moral fabric of our society.”
Auxiliary Bishop Deepak Valerian Tauro, in his keynote address, emphasized the vital importance of priest-religious collaboration in the mission of evangelization. He highlighted that genuine unity among the clergy and religious is not merely organizational but spiritual, flowing from their shared call to service and communion in Christ. His address inspired the audience to renew their commitment to living as one body in the Lord’s vineyard.
The celebration also featured lively cultural programmes presented by Catholic youth and students, adding vibrancy and joy to the evening. Traditional and contemporary performances reflected the diverse expressions of faith and creativity within the Church.
As the gathering concluded, bishops, priests, and religious shared personal reflections on the meaning of the Jubilee Year an opportunity for spiritual renewal, gratitude, and recommitment to their pastoral mission. The event ended with a fraternal meal, symbolizing the spirit of communion and thanksgiving that defined the day.
The Jubilee celebration at Sacred Heart Cathedral thus became not only a moment of recognition but also a collective reaffirmation of the Church’s mission to be a beacon of faith, hope, and service in the heart of the nation’s capital.