Kochi: The Jubilee of Hope celebrations organised under the leadership of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council concluded on Thursday with a solemn closing programme at the Pastoral Orientation Centre in Palarivattom.
The concluding celebrations witnessed the participation of priests religious sisters and lay faithful from all 32 dioceses of Kerala reflecting the unity of the Church in the state. The Holy Mass was the central event of the day and was presided over by Archbishop Dr Varghese Chakkalakal the newly elected President of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council. Bishops of the Council along with priests from various dioceses and religious congregations joined as concelebrants.
The Jubilee celebrations served as a moment to recall the many blessings received by the Church over the years and to renew the commitment to the Gospel mission in the present social context. The faithful were encouraged to strengthen their sense of unity deepen their missionary spirit and bear witness to Gospel values in daily life.
In his message Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos highlighted the responsibility of the Church to be a visible sign of unity faith and service in society. He said the Jubilee strongly reminded the Kerala Church of its rich spiritual heritage and its ongoing commitment to evangelisation and social service.
Bishops Mar Pauly Kannookadan and Dr Alex Vadakkumthala also addressed the gathering. They spoke about the challenges faced by the Church today and called for renewed pastoral dedication compassion and responsibility towards society especially the poor and the marginalised.
The conclusion of the Jubilee of Hope marks an important moment for the Kerala Church as it moves forward with renewed faith and mission under its new leadership.