Jubilee 2025: A Moment of Grace and Renewal for the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore

Chennai, January 14, 2025: The Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore marked a historic moment on the Feast of the Holy Family, December 29, 2024, as Archbishop George Antonysamy officially inaugurated Jubilee 2025 at Santhome Cathedral Basilica. This significant event, set on the day prescribed by Pope Francis for dioceses worldwide, ushered in a year dedicated to grace, renewal, and unity under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.”

Santhome Cathedral Basilica, standing over the Tomb of St. Thomas, the Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, is a place of profound spiritual significance. It is one of only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle, making it a true apostolic church and a beacon of faith for the Archdiocese.

A Sacred Pilgrimage

The celebration commenced at Our Lady of Guidance Church, R.A. Puram (formerly known as St. Lazarus Church), with a solemn liturgy during which the newly crafted Jubilee Cross was blessed by Archbishop George Antonysamy. Designed by Rev. Dr. Vincent Chinnadurai, the Jubilee Cross symbolizes the faith, heritage, and mission of the Archdiocese.

Hundreds of faithful, including clergy, religious, and laity, participated in the pilgrimage, carrying the blessed Jubilee Cross in procession to Santhome Cathedral. This act of devotion and solidarity set the tone for the day’s celebrations, embodying the spirit of synodality as the faithful journeyed together in faith.

The Significance of the Jubilee Cross

The Jubilee Cross, a powerful symbol of hope and heritage, reflects the rich spiritual legacy of the Archdiocese. Rev. Dr. Vincent Chinnadurai, who also serves as the Parish Priest and Rector of the Cathedral, explained its unique design:

1. The Thomas Cross: Modeled after the Bleeding Cross of Saint Thomas, this element honors the martyrdom of the Apostle who brought the faith to India and remains the patron of the Archdiocese. The Bleeding Cross, an enduring symbol of Indian Christianity, reminds the faithful of the sacrifices and witness of St. Thomas, whose blood sowed the seeds of faith on Indian soil.

2. Christ as Prophet, Priest & King: Inspired by the Cathedral’s altar, this depiction of Christ emphasizes His triple mission of leading, serving, and sanctifying, a calling shared by all the faithful.

3. Anchor of Hope: Rooted in Hebrews 6:19, the anchor symbolizes steadfast hope, guiding the Archdiocese’s journey of faith and unity during the Jubilee year.

The Solemn Opening of Jubilee 2025

The pinnacle of the celebration was the Holy Mass at Santhome Cathedral Basilica, presided over by Archbishop George Antonysamy with priests from across the Archdiocese concelebrating. The liturgy began with the traditional Kyrie, after which the Archbishop solemnly proclaimed the Jubilee Year open.

This sacred moment was marked by the sounding of the jubel, the release of doves—a sign of peace and the Holy Spirit—and the choir’s resounding Gloria, filling the Cathedral with songs of jubilation. The faithful, gathered in their hundreds and thousands, joined in prayer and thanksgiving, signifying the official commencement of Jubilee 2025.

Installation of the Jubilee Cross

Following the Mass, the Jubilee Cross, carried in solemn procession into the Cathedral, was installed near the pulpit in the sanctuary. This placement symbolizes its central role in the liturgical and spiritual life of the Archdiocese throughout the Jubilee year.

Santhome Cathedral Basilica, as the site of St. Thomas's Tomb, serves as a powerful reminder of the apostolic foundation of the Church in Chennai. The Jubilee Cross, placed prominently in this sacred space, calls the faithful to deepen their commitment to the Gospel and the mission entrusted to them.

A Journey of Grace and Renewal

Addressing the congregation, Archbishop George Antonysamy called on the faithful to embrace the Jubilee as a time of spiritual renewal, communal solidarity, and a deepening of faith. He urged all to journey as Pilgrims of Hope, inspired by the Archdiocese’s heritage and the universal call to walk together in faith.

The day’s events, meticulously planned and executed, reflected the spirit of unity and devotion that characterizes the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore. As the Jubilee Year begins, the faithful are invited to a year-long journey of reflection, renewal, and joy.

With the Jubilee Cross as its guiding symbol and Santhome Cathedral Basilica as its spiritual heart, the Archdiocese looks forward to a transformative year, united in its mission to proclaim the Gospel and live out the faith authentically. The Cathedral is also expecting thousands of pilgrims from all over the world to visit the Jubilee Cross throughout the year, underscoring its significance as a global spiritual destination.

Fr. Ritchie Vincent

Secretary, Commission for Social Communications 

Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore