Testimony of Faith Shines in the Streets of the National Capital

New Delhi 23 November 2025: Thousands of Catholics from the Archdiocese of Delhi took to the streets of New Delhi on Sunday, 23 November 2025, giving a bold public witness to their faith. Praying the rosary, singing devotional hymns, and praising the Eucharistic Lord, the faithful marked the Feast of Christ the King with deep devotion and unity.

 

Archbishop Anil Couto led the solemn Eucharistic procession, which began at the Sacred Heart Cathedral and moved through Baba Kharak Singh Road, Shivaji Stadium, Connaught Place, Gole Market and Bhai Vir Singh Marg, before entering the grounds of Columbus School. Despite the winter chill and high pollution levels, thousands knelt in silence and reverence for Eucharistic Adoration and received the benediction.

 

The celebration opened with a solemn Holy Mass, presided over by Archbishop Anil Couto. Auxiliary Bishop Deepak Tauro, Bishop Ignatius Mascarenhas, Bishop Emeritus of Simla-Chandigarh, and hundreds of priests concelebrated. Msgr. Vincent D’Souza, the Vicar General, delivered the homily.

 

In his vote of thanks, Archbishop Anil praised the strong faith of the people. He said their large and prayerful participation “shows the courage of our community and the depth of our love for the Lord.”

 

For many young Catholics, the day is a much-awaited moment of renewal. “This celebration strengthens our faith every year,” said Jessica Minj, a youth leader of ICYM. “Our young people look forward to this day because it unites us and inspires us.”

 

Arnold Chris Joseph, from the Shrine of Our Lady of Health in Masihgarh, highlighted the discipline and devotion of the participants. “We come with full faith,” he said. “And the way the archdiocese organizes this procession, right through the heart of Delhi, without disturbing anyone shows real commitment.”

 

From the early hours of the morning, the Columbus School grounds were filled with faithful from parishes and mission stations across the Archdiocese, which covers the National Capital Region and Haryana.

 

Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General representing the Latin Catholic Church in India, joined the celebration and expressed his joy at witnessing such vibrant faith.

 

Delhi Archdiocese continues to hold a unique place in the Church in India because of its location in the national capital. Each year, it hosts events that allow the faithful to publicly express their faith in a spirit of love, peace, and service.

 

By Catholic Connect Reporter