Marking the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore's (Tamil Nadu) preparations for Jubilee 2025, the Jubilee Cross and the Luce Mascot were unveiled during the CCBI Jubilee Yatra, held on Wednesday, 13 November 2024, at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, as part of the clergy recollection. This symbolic event celebrated the beginning of the Archdiocese’s journey toward the Holy Year Jubilee.
Most Rev. Dr. George Antonysamy, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore, President of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC), and Vice-President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), delivered the Presidential Address. Reflecting on the recent Synod for a Synodal Church, he said, "Although the Synod has concluded, the process of synodality continues; journeying together, as pilgrims of hope, we walk into the Holy Year Jubilee 2025."
The Jubilee 2025 Cross, crafted by Rev. Dr. Vincent Chinnadurai, Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, was unveiled by Archbishop Antonysamy in the presence of Msgr. G. J. Antonysamy, Vicar General. The cross stands as a powerful symbol of faith and unity, setting the tone for the Holy Year’s upcoming celebrations.
The Luce Mascot, representing the Jubilee of Children in the Archdiocese, was then introduced by Rev. Fr. Peter Thumma, Episcopal Vicar, alongside Rev. Fr. Raymond Peter, Secretary of the Commission for Catechetics. The Luce Mascot will play a central role in engaging young members of the Archdiocese, symbolizing the spirit of illumination and guidance on their journey toward the Jubilee.
Rev. Dr. J. Joseph Arockia Jayakumar convened the event, which also included an insightful talk by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025. In his presentation titled “Jubilee 2025: Context, Preparations, and Celebrations,” he outlined the vision for the Holy Year and shared insights into its importance for the faithful.
As the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore journeys toward the Holy Year, these symbols and initiatives exemplify the unity and dedication of the faithful in embracing the spirit of Jubilee 2025 with renewed hope, faith, and purpose.
Photos courtesy: Fr. Ritchie Vincent