Bangalore: Sophia High School in Bangalore transformed its campus into a place of prayer, unity, and deep spiritual reflection as Christian students, their families, and the entire school staff gathered on November 22 to celebrate the Great Jubilee Year of the Lord 2025. The ceremony unfolded before the school’s open stage, drawing together a large and reverent assembly for one of the most significant events in the Catholic calendar.
The celebration was led by Fr. Maria Anthony, Director of Paalanaa Bhavana, the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, as well as the Director of the Archdiocesan Communications Centre and AVE Studios. He was joined by Fr. Balraj Joseph, Assistant Financial Administrator of the Archdiocese of Bangalore and Secretary for the Commission of Ecology. Their presence added immense spiritual depth and pastoral warmth to the occasion.
The event began with a solemn procession featuring a large banner of Jesus Christ the Universal King, flanked by the official logo of the Jubilee Year 2025. As the procession made its way toward the hall, students and staff sang hymns reflecting the Jubilee theme: “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The melodic chants set a tone of devotion as participants walked in unison, symbolizing the Church’s collective journey into a year of mercy, renewal, and spiritual awakening.
Upon entering the hall, the assembly was greeted by the powerful strains of the Jubilee Anthem, “Like a flame my hope is burning, May my soul arise to You.” This moving hymn served as the entrance song for the Holy Mass, drawing the congregation into a deeply prayerful atmosphere.
During the Mass, the celebrant delivered a compelling homily centred on the Kingship of Christ. He described Jesus not merely as a distant figure of reverence, but as the King of Kings guiding every individual, family, institution, and community.
He urged the faithful to cultivate an inner yearning for Christ and to embody His teachings through genuine actions rather than words alone. Reflecting on the meaning of the Jubilee Year, he called the community to honour Jesus with renewed dedication and to carry His message into their daily lives.
The spiritual impact of the celebration was felt throughout the gathering. Participants described the Mass as “grace-filled,” “beautiful,” and “deeply moving.” Many remarked that they felt the presence of Jesus Christ in a profound way, noting that the event offered both personal inspiration and communal renewal.
For the students, families, and staff of Sophia High School, the Jubilee celebration became more than an annual observance it emerged as a day overflowing with blessings, hope, and spiritual unity, setting the tone for their continued journey through the Great Jubilee Year of the Lord 2025.