Diocese of Meerut celebrates the Jubilee Year inauguration

Meerut, January 11, 2025: The inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025 was a momentous and deeply moving event, filled with reverence, joy and spiritual fervour. On December 29, 2024, the Feast of the Holy Family, the Diocese of Meerut came together in a profound display of faith and unity to mark the beginning of this sacred year. The ceremony was conducted in accordance with the guidelines set by the National Coordinator, Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi, reflecting the heart of our Church and its mission.

The event unfolded at the spacious grounds of St. Joseph's Inter College, Meerut, where the faithful gathered in large numbers—priests, religious, youth, children, families, and the community at large. It was a sight to behold, as all were united in the spirit of anticipation, their hearts eager to embark on this spiritual journey together. Led by Rt. Rev. Bhaskar Jesuraj, the Bishop of Meerut, the celebration of this year of grace began.

The venue, adorned with beautiful decorations, was bathed in holiness and joy. The Jubilee Cross was placed in a central location, standing tall as a symbol of Christ’s presence in our lives and of the year.

 The opening began with an introduction to the significance of the Jubilee Year. This was followed by the procession, which was a true reflection of our shared faith and devotion. The altar boys, with incense and candles in hand, led the way, followed by Rev. Bishop Bhaskar, who carried the Jubilee Cross with reverence. Father John Chiman held the Holy Bible, symbolizing the Word of God that guides us through our pilgrimage of faith.

As the procession moved towards the Cathedral, Rev. Bishop raised the Jubilee Cross and invited everyone to adore the crucifix. This simple yet profound gesture reminded all of us of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and the hope we find in Him. Prayers at the Baptismal Pond followed, invoking a deep sense of renewal as we reflected on the spiritual journey ahead.

The heart of the celebration came with the solemn Holy Mass. The responsorial psalm, Pilgrims of Hope, composed by Mr. Prince, a young member of our diocese, captured the spirit of our pilgrimage elevating our hearts with its message of trust and hope in the Lord. In his homily, Bishop Bhaskar spoke with deep emotion about the Holy Family and its significance for us today. He spoke of the word “HOLY” as it applies to family life:

· H stands for Hope, the foundation that strengthens a family through every challenge.

· O stands for Obedience, listening to one another with hearts open to understanding.

· L stands for Love, the binding force that makes every family sacred.

· Y stands for Yeshu, for Jesus is the centre and the heart of every holy family.

With heartfelt sincerity, Bishop Bhaskar shared that when these values—hope, obedience, love, and faith in Jesus—are present, a family becomes a "Holy Family." His words were a reminder that the true essence of family life is found in the love and grace we share, in the trust we place in God, and in the sacrifices we make for one another. He also spoke powerfully of the theme Pilgrims of Hope. Hope, he reminded us, is a gift from God. It never disappoints, and it fills us with the courage to face life's challenges with unwavering faith.

The day concluded with an Agape lunch, where all the faithful gathered in fellowship and love, sharing not just a meal but a sense of community and spiritual bond. The inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025 was not just an event; it was an experience—a living testament to the faith, hope, and love that bind us as a diocese and as a family in Christ. As we move forward into this year of grace, we carry with us the blessings of this beautiful beginning, trusting in the promise that the Lord’s hope will always guide us on our journey.

By Sr. Meena Naidu