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Episcopal City Deanery Jubilee Year 2025 Celebration  - “Pilgrims of Hope; Weapons of the Gospel”

Date & Time: 06th April, 2025, 5:30 PM onwards  
Venue: St Joseph seminary premises, Jeppu, Mangalore

The Episcopal City Deanery gathered in a spirit of profound faith and joyful communion to solemnly inaugurate the Jubilee Year 2025, centered on the inspiring theme: “Pilgrims of Hope; Weapons of the Gospel.” This spiritually rich and culturally vibrant celebration commenced at 5:30 PM, and was gracefully compered by Fr. Antony George, who guided the program with clarity and warmth.

Opening Ceremony

The event began with a welcome dance by the talented students of St. Ann’s School, choreographed to a melodious Hindi hymn that encapsulated the themes of unity, peace, and divine grace.

This was followed by a gracious welcome address delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth, who extended heartfelt greetings to:

- His Lordship Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore  
- Msgr. Maxim Noronha  
- Rev. Fr. Ronald Serrao, Rector of St. Joseph Seminary  
- All clergy, religious, and laity gathered for this momentous occasion

Inauguration of the Jubilee

A symbolic and moving inaugural dance by the students of Lourdes Central School, titled “Vachan Tera Hey Prabhu” (Your Word, O Lord), set the spiritual tone of the celebration, reminding the faithful of the central role of the Word of God in the Christian journey.

Address by His Lordship Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha delivered an enlightening and motivational address. He reflected on the nature of the Jubilee, comparing it to the biblical tradition of Jubilee meals and celebrations spanning three days, centered around the good news. Key highlights from his message included:

- The uplifting nature of the Gospel, which brings encouragement and life.  
- The encounter of Mary Magdalene at the tomb, who became a joyful witness of the Resurrection after hearing the Word.  
- The life-giving presence of God’s Word, likened to conceiving and giving birth to God through faithful listening.  
- A cautionary tale from the life of Jonah, who attempted to flee from God’s call—reminding the faithful that disobedience may lead to the Word of God no longer returning.

His Lordship concluded with words of appreciation for the organizers, commending their dedication and meticulous preparation in making the event spiritually enriching.

Introduction of Judges

Fr. Arun Lobo introduced the distinguished panel of judges for the cultural segments:

1. Fr. Francis Rodrigues – Parish Priest of Adyapadi, noted writer and former editor of the Konkani weekly Rakno.  
2. Mr. Alwyn Noronha – Renowned musician and composer, and Headmaster of Bajpe High School.  
3. Mrs. Swapna Crasta – Accomplished teacher and versatile actor from Paldane.

Cultural Program

The latter part of the evening saw a vibrant array of performances, compered by Bro. Avil Santmayor, who carried the program forward with elegance and enthusiasm. The cultural highlights included:

- A soulful chanting of Psalms 5 and 7 by the Cassia Parishioners, inspiring reflection and prayer.  
- A dramatic and faith-filled skit on Mary Magdalene by the Bendur Parishioners, portraying her transformation as a disciple of hope.  
- A beautifully rendered Psalm performance by the Jeppu Parishioners, rich in devotion.  
- A touching skit on Jesus, the Good Shepherd by the Kulur Parishioners, portraying the care and call of Christ.  
- A moving Psalm presentation by the Milagres Parishioners, blending music and spirituality.  
- A stirring skit on St. John the Baptist by the Tannirbavi Parishioners, depicting the prophet’s courage and proclamation of the truth.

Conclusion

The event was a resounding testament to the unity, faith, and artistic talents of the Episcopal City Deanery. It marked a powerful beginning to the Jubilee Year 2025, calling all the faithful to journey as “Pilgrims of Hope” and become true “Weapons of the Gospel” in today’s world.