Aurangabad Diocese as Pilgrims of Hope

The Diocese of Aurangabad hosted an insightful webinar titled "Pilgrims of Hope on the Synodal Journey" on Friday, 15 November 2025, via Google Meet. The event, organized by Rev. Fr. Michael Francis, Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, brought together 30 participants who will play a pivotal role in the Diocese's Jubilee 2025 preparations and celebrations.

His Excellency Most Rev. Bernard Lancy Pinto, Bishop of Aurangabad, delivered the Presidential Address, stressing the significance of hope as a theological virtue. He highlighted the synodal process as a journey towards a more participatory and inclusive Church. "Hope is one of the three theological virtues, which invites us to have our minds and hearts on the future," Bishop Pinto said. "The invitation of our Holy Father comes in the context of synod for a synodal church, where we have already begun to journey together."

Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on "Pilgrims of Hope on the Synodal Journey." He explored the profound connection between the synodal process and Jubilee 2025, inspiring participants to embrace a spirit of hope and renewal.

The webinar served as a space for the Diocese of Aurangabad to update on Synod and Jubilee 2025, encouraging active participation in the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. 

Ajmer Diocese Sets Pastoral Pathways

The Diocese of Ajmer recently hosted the CCBI Jubilee Yātra on Friday, 15 November 2024. The event, organized under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Clement Countinho, brought together a diverse group of 128 individuals, including priests, religious, and lay faithful.

The Yātra was marked by a sense of hope and renewal, as participants delved into the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033. Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for the Jubilee 2025, guided the sessions, encouraging participants to explore pastoral pathways that would inspire and uplift their communities.

His Excellency Most Rev. Oswald Joseph Lewis, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese, emphasised the significance of the Jubilee 2025 in spreading the message of hope throughout the Diocese. He expressed his belief that each individual would play a crucial role in carrying forward the Jubilee 2025 preparations and celebrations.

His Excellency Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes, Bishop Emeritus of Ajmer, highlighted the Church's enduring presence and support, offering constant companionship through various events and activities.

Rev. Sr. Swapna, a member of the Organizing Team, expressed the collective excitement of the participants, stating, "We are indeed excited to journey together as pilgrims of hope."

The CCBI Jubilee Yātra in Ajmer Diocese was a powerful tool for spiritual renewal and a witness to the Church's commitment to fostering hope and transformation.

Photos courtesy: Diocesan Pastoral Centre

Jaipur Prepares for Jubilee 2025

On 14 November 2024, the Diocese of Jaipur launched its preparations for Jubilee 2025 with an evening of learning and planning at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. The gathering witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 54 priests, religious, and lay faithful, reflecting the collective commitment to making the Jubilee Year a fruitful and transformative journey.  

The event was graced by the message of His Excellency, Most Rev. Joseph Kallarackal, Bishop of Jaipur, who, in his felicitation letter, shared words of encouragement: "Our Holy Father wants us to embark on a pilgrimage of hope; may the Jubilee Year inspire us to proclaim hope in our parishes and institutions."

Convened by Rev. Fr. Melvin Jobard, Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, and coordinated by Rev. Dr. Jijo Varghese, Chancellor, the session aimed to equip participants with insights into the significance of the Jubilee and its themes. Discussions focused on practical strategies for fostering unity, proclaiming hope, and revitalising pastoral activities across the diocese during this special year.  

The participants expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming Jubilee celebrations, resolving to work together in their parishes and communities to embody the spirit of hope and renewal. 

Jubilee 2025 Cross was unveiled at the event, and the CCBI Pastoral Plan 2033, Pontifical Mission Organizations, and Communio were introduced to the participants.

Photos courtesy: Fr. Vishal Madtha