Pilgrims of Hope: A Jubilee of Faith at St. Fidelis Parish, Aligarh, U.P

The Archdiocese of Agra ushered in the Jubilee Year of Hope with great fervour on December 29, 2024, coinciding with the Feast of the Holy Family. Among its many participating parishes, St. Fidelis Parish, Aligarh, has embraced this sacred year with deep devotion and a series of spiritually enriching activities.

A Year of Celebration and Renewal

Every jubilee is a time of joy, but the Jubilee Year 2025 holds special significance. It reminds Catholics worldwide that God's reign has spanned over 2025 years, and His kingdom knows no boundaries. More importantly, this jubilee serves as a prelude to the much-awaited Great Jubilee of 2033, marking 2000 years of Christ’s resurrection.

The theme of this jubilee—"Pilgrims of Hope"—resonates deeply, encouraging the faithful to walk in faith, unity, and love. Pope Francis has urged Catholics across the world to “fan the flame of hope” and embrace the future with trust, open hearts, and a far-sighted vision during the jubilee year. At St. Fidelis Parish, this message has come alive through prayer, acts of solidarity, and most notably, the pilgrimage of the Jubilee Cross.

The Journey of the Jubilee Cross

The Jubilee Cross is a sacred symbol of Christ’s sacrifice, resurrection, and boundless love. As the new year began, the cross arrived at St. Fidelis Parish, where it was reverently placed in the church. Throughout the month, parishioners gathered to venerate it during the Sunday Eucharistic celebrations.

However, the true essence of the cross’ pilgrimage began when Rev. Fr. John Roshan Pereira, the parish priest of St. Fidelis Parish, made an inspiring decision—the Jubilee Cross must visit the home of every parishioner. This would allow each family to experience its divine presence and receive abundant blessings.

Thus began the spiritual journey of the Jubilee Cross within the parish. It travels from one home to the next home within the parish every few days. In a solemn procession, the head of each household, accompanied by fellow parishioners and the priest, carries the cross to the next home. Over time, all 90 families in the parish would have the privilege of hosting the cross, embracing it as a beacon of faith.

Prayer, Unity, and Community Spirit

When the Jubilee Cross reaches the home of a parishioner, it becomes the focal point of a community prayer gathering. Parishioners assemble for a one-hour session led by Fr. John. The prayer meeting comprises opening prayers, recitation of the Holy Rosary, Bible reading and reflection, intercessory prayers, and blessing of the household.

This intimate gathering strengthens both spiritual devotion and community bonds. After the prayers, the host family serves tea and simple snacks, fostering a sense of togetherness. To encourage maximum participation, these prayer meetings are scheduled for 6:00 PM, allowing families to attend after completing their daily commitments.

A Year of Grace and Blessings

The pilgrimage of the Jubilee Cross at St. Fidelis Parish is more than just a tradition—it is a testament to faith in motion. It embodies the spirit of hope, reminding the faithful that each one of us is a pilgrim journeying toward Christ.

As this sacred year unfolds, the parishioners of St. Fidelis Parish, Aligarh, stand united in faith, prayer, and community. May this Jubilee Year bring abundant blessings, and may the Lord reign in our hearts forever!

By Mr. Tom K. Mathew,

Parish Media Incharge