Focolare Pilgrims of Hope for Peace

A transformative and inspiring gathering, titled 'Pilgrims of Hope for Peace,' took place on February 6, 2024, at Nava Spoorthi Kendra, Bengaluru. The event was organized by Sig. Marco Cittadini of Focolare India, bringing together participants from various walks of life to reflect on the profound significance of walking as pilgrims of hope for peace.

The gathering was graced by the presence of Sig. Carlos Palma, Founder and Coordinator of Living Peace International, who animated the reflection on the importance of fostering hope and working towards peace. The participants engaged in meaningful discussions and shared insights on the role each individual can play in contributing to a world marked by harmony and understanding.

The event also witnessed a special felicitation of Sig. Carlos Palma by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, Executive Secretary to the Commission for Bible, Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. Rev. Prof. Dr. Karunanidhi, who also serves as the National Coordinator for the Jubilee 2025, expressed his appreciation for Sig. Palma's dedicated efforts in promoting peace and fostering a culture of dialogue.

The informal gathering served as a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, exchange ideas, and reaffirm their commitment to being ambassadors of hope and peace in their communities and beyond.

Sig. Marco Cittadini, in his remarks, highlighted the importance of such gatherings in fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. He expressed gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and commitment to being agents of positive change.

As the Pilgrims of Hope for Peace embark on their respective journeys, the event echoes the call to collective action and emphasizes the transformative power of hope in building bridges and overcoming barriers.

Servite Leaders Walk Jubilee 2025 Journey

In a momentous gathering on February 7, 2024, at Nirmal Nagar, Dindigul, the Congregation of Mother of Sorrows Servants of Mary launched the Jubilee Yātra for team leaders, marking the beginning of a spiritual journey towards the Ordinary Jubilee 2025. The event was presided over by Rev. Sr. Decla Mary OSM, Superior General of the Congregation, who encapsulated the essence of the forthcoming jubilee.

In her address, Rev. Sr. Decla Mary OSM articulated, "The Jubilee 2025 invites us towards universal fraternity, solidarity with the peripheries, and care for our common home." The Ordinary Jubilee 2025 is anticipated to be a time of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to the values cherished by the Congregation of Our Lady of Seven Dolours.

Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, facilitated the discussions reflecting on 'Pilgrims of Hope in Communion, for Mission.' In the background of the 35 Council Notebooks, published by the Dicastery for Evangelisation: Section for Fundamental Questions regarding the Evangelisation in the World, he initiated the search to identify the pastoral priorities.

The team leaders, who play a pivotal role in guiding the Congregation through this jubilee year, welcomed with enthusiasm and anticipation. The Jubilee Yātra aims to spiritually prepare the leaders for the significant responsibilities they will shoulder in the coming months, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among them.

As the Jubilee Yātra embarks on its journey, the Congregation looks forward to embracing the themes of universal fraternity, solidarity, and environmental stewardship, as outlined by Rev. Sr. Decla Mary OSM.

The Ordinary Jubilee 2025 promises to be a time of spiritual growth, community building, and a rekindling of the congregation's commitment to serving humanity. As the journey unfolds, the Congregation of Mother of Sorrows Servants of Mary invites all to join in the spirit of jubilation and collective purpose, striving towards a more compassionate and harmonious world.

The event was hosted by Servite Alexis Province, Dindigul. As many as 27 team leaders of the Congregation participated in the Jubilee Yātra. During the interaction session various concerns such as missionary of mercy, synodality at the grassroots, challenges to live communion, and obstacles to mission were emerged.