Diocese of Vasai Opens Jubilee Year 2025

Vasai, December 30, 2024: The Diocese of Vasai inaugurated its Jubilee Year 2025 with a grand celebration at Our Lady of Graces Cathedral in Papady, Vasai, on December 29. The event, presided over by Bishop Thomas D'Souza of Vasai, brought together clergy, including Archbishop Emeritus of Vasai Province Most Rev. Felix Machado and the faithful from across the region for a solemn and spiritually enriching occasion. The celebration marked the beginning of a year-long journey of reflection, prayer, and renewal for the diocese.

The ceremony commenced in the church premises with a procession featuring the Holy Crucifix, specially crafted to commemorate the Jubilee Year. Carried amid hymns by parishioners, clergy, and altar servers, the crucifix symbolized the theme of the Jubilee. The procession moved through the church compound before returning to the premises, where the crucifix was venerated by Bishop D'Souza. Following the veneration, the bishop officially declared the Jubilee Year 2025 open.

This was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. In his homily during the Holy Mass, Bishop Thomas D'Souza reflected on the history of Jubilee celebrations, highlighting the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy declared by Pope Francis in 2015 and the current Jubilee of Hope in 2025. He emphasized the significance of the Jubilee as a year of thanksgiving, mercy, and grace, urging the faithful to recommit to their faith and responsibilities toward society.

"Let this year be a time for rest, reflection, restoration of families, and reconciliation," said Bishop D'Souza. He called on families to emulate the Holy Family, whose feast day was celebrated on the same day, and to make their homes a foundation of faith. He also echoed Pope Francis’ call for pilgrimages, explaining that the concept extends beyond physical journeys to include the glorification of God in daily life through words and actions.

The ceremony concluded with a special blessing imparted by Bishop D'Souza, Archbishop Emeritus Felix Machado, and Archbishop Emeritus Thomas Dabre. Parish Priest Fr. Anil Pereira expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the successful organization of the event, including clergy, choirs, and technical teams.

The faithful venerated the Jubilee Cross at the end of the celebration, marking a hopeful and prayerful start to the Jubilee Year 2025.

By Steve Antao