Archdiocese of Bhopal Launches Jubilee Year 2025 with Solemn Celebration

Bhopal, December 30, 2024: The Archdiocese of Bhopal inaugurated its Jubilee Year 2025 with a grand celebration at Our Lady of Assumption Church on December 29. The event, presided over by Archbishop Alangaram Arokia Sebastin Durairaj of Bhopal, marked the beginning of a year-long spiritual journey. Faithful from across the city participated, carrying Jubilee Year flags and joining in solemn prayer.

The ceremony began in the church courtyard where the Archbishop blessed the Holy Crucifix, which is the symbol of the Jubilee Year 2025. The blessed crucifix was then carried in a grand procession around the church. During the procession, parishioners, sisters, altar servers and the faithful sang the Litany of Saints as they carried the cross. After the procession, the Archbishop venerated the crucifix, unfurled the Jubilee Year flag and officially declared the opening of the Jubilee Year 2025.

The Holy Crucifix was then carried in a procession into the church, where the Holy Mass was celebrated. During the liturgy, the Archbishop blessed holy water, which was then sprinkled on the gathered faithful by him and the priests, symbolizing purification and renewal. A choir composed of parishioners from various parishes filled the church with uplifting spiritual melodies, creating an atmosphere of prayerful reflection and unity.

In his homily, the Archbishop emphasized the significance of the Feast of the Holy Family, which coincided with the opening of the Jubilee Year in the Archdiocese of Bhopal. He traced the historical development of the feast, referencing Pope Leo XIII’s advocacy in the late 19th century and Pope Benedict XV’s 1921 declaration of the Feast as an international observance. Highlighting the virtues of the Holy Family—resilience, love, and trust in God’s will—he encouraged families to draw inspiration from their example. “Despite challenges, the Holy Family moved forward with faith and hope. Families today must seek inspiration from their example,” the Archbishop stated. He also echoed Pope Francis’ call for pilgrimage and spiritual renewal during the Jubilee Year.

The event concluded fostering fellowship and joy among the faithful as the Archdiocese embarked on its Jubilee Year journey.

By Steve Antao