Hyderabad: The Catholic Association of Hyderabad (CAH) hosted a grand felicitation ceremony on Sunday, October 12, at St. Francis College, Secunderabad, celebrating more than 200 Catholic teachers both retired and serving who have dedicated their lives to education and moral formation within the Archdiocese of Hyderabad.
The event, held in conjunction with the Vatican-instituted Jubilee Celebration of World Education announced by Pope Leo XIV, honoured educators who have served as pillars of faith, discipline, and compassion in shaping generations of students.
Dr. Naveen Nicolas, Commissioner and Director of School Education, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest. In his address, he lauded the Catholic teachers for their unwavering commitment to values-based education. “Your faith-inspired dedication does not just build careers it builds character,” he remarked, emphasizing that true education nurtures both intellect and compassion.
The ceremony gathered prominent leaders from across the Catholic community, including Mrs. Larisa Peter, YOUCAT India member recently honoured by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican for her contributions to Catholic youth formation. She spoke passionately about the vocation of teaching as a “divine calling” that transforms not only minds but also societies.
The day began with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration led by Fr. M. M. Kennedy, Principal of Fr. Roch Memorial High School. In his homily, Fr. Kennedy paid heartfelt tribute to educators, acknowledging them as “architects of the soul” who have shaped hearts, inspired dreams, and built futures with patience and love. “Teaching,” he said, “is not merely a profession it is a sacred mission rooted in God’s grace.”
Messages of appreciation and blessing poured in from several Church leaders and national Catholic figures. Cardinal Oswald Gracias, in his message, commended the teachers for their “silent, steadfast service in nurturing a generation grounded in truth and love.” Mr. Elias Vaz, President of the All India Catholic Union (AICU), and Mr. Raphael, AICU leader from Mumbai, also extended their congratulations, highlighting the indispensable role of teachers in upholding moral integrity in a rapidly changing world.
The honourees, representing decades of service across Catholic schools in Hyderabad and Secunderabad, were felicitated with mementos and certificates of appreciation. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and nostalgia as teachers shared their experiences and reflections, recalling the joy of teaching and mentoring students who have gone on to excel in diverse fields.
In his closing remarks, a CAH representative noted that the event was more than a felicitation it was a reaffirmation of the Church’s enduring commitment to holistic education. “Our teachers are the backbone of our faith community,” he said. “Their lives are testimonies of dedication, humility, and the power of education as an instrument of God’s love.”
As hymns of thanksgiving filled the hall, the event concluded with a renewed call to continue nurturing minds and hearts in the light of faith an enduring mission that the Catholic educators of Hyderabad have embraced with devotion and grace.