Jubilee of Health Personnel Celebrated in Buxar Diocese

Ara, Nov 10, 2025: As part of the ongoing Jubilee Year celebrations, the Jubilee of Health Personnel was held on 9 November in Buxar diocese. Marking the 25th event in the diocesan series, the celebration brought together Catholic doctors, nurses, lab technicians, pharmacists, Community Health Officers, and other health professionals to honour their vital contribution to the Church’s healing ministry. The event, organised at the Catholic Church premises in Ara, Bhojpur district, was coordinated by Sr. Anushila, SND, the diocesan Health Commission coordinator.

The significance of the Jubilee Year 2025 was highlighted by Fr. Anil through an insightful video presentation that deepened participants’ understanding of its spiritual meaning and purpose. In his opening address, Bishop James Shekhar of Buxar expressed heartfelt gratitude to health personnel for choosing their vocation, while Fr. Charles Isaac spoke emotionally about the compassionate care and healing touch they bring to society.

Serving as the resource person, Sr. Nirmala from CHAI, Jharkhand, encouraged the participants to be the hands and heart of Jesus, reflected on topics such as 'Christian Health Personnel', 'Self-care for Health Workers', 'Mental Health' and 'Holistic Healing'. Presenting Jesus as the ultimate role model, she urged health personnel to be visible signs of His compassion. Many nurses shared their field experiences of bringing the presence of Jesus and faith to non-Christians. They also expressed joy in their vocation of touching and healing lives.

The celebration also featured a recreational segment organised by Sr. Jyoti, which included games for the participants, with winners receiving prizes. Each participant was given a Jubilee souvenir as a memento of the occasion and a reminder of their role as healers in society.

The event culminated with the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Bishop James Shekhar. In his homily, the Bishop described health personnel as builders of the Body of Christ in a unique way. Quoting the late Pope Francis, he reminded them: “The sick bed can become a holy place, where charity burns away indifference and gratitude nourishes hope.”

The local coordinating team of Ara, Fr. Francis Palli, SJ, Bro. Siluvai Sathan, SJ, and others were instrumental in organising the event, along with Sr. Anushila, SND, whose tireless efforts ensured its success.

By Fr. Anil Benet Cruz

Jubilee Coordinator, Buxar diocese