Holy Land Seminar Unites Hearts in Hope

Bengaluru, 7 April 2025: The Holy Land Awareness Seminar was held on Monday, 7 April 2025 at Paalanaa Bhavana, the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre in Bengaluru. Jointly organized by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Jubilee 2025 Desk and the Israel Ministry of Tourism, Mumbai, the seminar brought together 36 high-profile leaders of the Christian Churches in India to explore various pilgrimage and tourism programs to the Holy Land.

 

Presided over by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore and Vice-President of the CCBI, the event focused on preparing the Church in India to spiritually engage with the upcoming Jubilee Year through meaningful pilgrimages.

In his presidential address, Archbishop Peter Machado said, “A pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a return to the heart of our faith. In this Jubilee journey, we are called not only to see the sacred sites but to be transformed by the spiritual roots of our Christian identity.”

 

The Guest of Honour, Honourable Inbal Ston, Deputy Consul General of Israel in Bengaluru, lauded the initiative and emphasized the shared spiritual ties between India and Israel. She enumerated different types of visas and the procedures to obtain them. 

 

Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, welcomed the dignitaries and participants with heartfelt words. He remarked, “The present seminar is an act of Tikkun Olam (Hebrew: תיקון עולם), a Jewish concept that means ‘to better the world.’ May what we do today, better the world for faith, hope, and love.” 

 

The event was graced by His Excellency Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainathan, Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore. 

 

Ms. Amruta Bangera, Director of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, India (Mumbai), presented the various programs and facilities available for Indian pilgrims. She stated, “We are committed to offering seamless, safe, and spiritually enriching experiences to every pilgrim. The Holy Land is open to all who seek the divine.”

 

Mr. George Devassy, Founder CEO of Magi Holidays, shared insights from years of pilgrimage organization, affirming that “every journey to the Holy Land is a personal gospel encounter, an opportunity to walk where Jesus walked.”

 

The seminar witnessed the participation of honourable major superiors, vicars forane, and representatives of various Christian Churches. The dialogue fostered mutual learning, inter-church cooperation, and a deeper appreciation of the Holy Land as a spiritual and pastoral resource for the Church in India.

 

As part of the CCBI’s preparations for Jubilee 2025 'Pilgrims of Hope,' this initiative stands as a sign of hope and unity, reaffirming the role of pilgrimage in the Church’s mission of evangelization and renewal.

Our gratitude to Rev. Dr. Cyril Victor Joseph, Director of Paalanaa Bhavana and Director of CCBI Media Apostolate for the organisational assistance.

Photos courtesy: Mr. Noel, Ave Studios, Bangalore Archdiocese

Jubilee 2025 Celebration by Bangalore CRI Cooke Town Zone

On Sunday, 23 March 2025, the Bangalore CRI Cooke Town Zone celebrated Jubilee 2025 in a meaningful way by combining it with the season of Lent and making a special pilgrimage. This event was held at the Thejas Provincial House of the Sisters of St. Ann of Luzern, Bengaluru.

A total of 75 consecrated men and women, along with candidates in formation, came together for a Lenten conference titled "Journey with Christ to the Cross: A Pilgrimage of Faith." The session was animated by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, the CCBI National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025.

The gathering was part of a larger spiritual journey to Nirmala Shishu Bhavan, one of the six centres announced by His Grace Most Rev. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, as places to “instil and imbibe hope” during the Jubilee Year.

In her orientation address, Dr. Sr. Roshni Karimundackal PHJC, President of the Zone, placed the event in the wider context of the Synod for a Synodal Church (2021–2024), the Jubilee Year 2025, and the Lenten season. She emphasised that the pilgrimage is not just a visit but a deep experiential and transformational journey of faith.

The event was well-coordinated by Sr. Bincy Emmanuel SAL, Secretary of the Zone.

The day marked a significant moment of reflection, renewal, and hope as the consecrated communities journey together towards the Jubilee.

Photos courtesy: BCRI Cooke Town Zone Media Team

Redemptorists of Bangalore Province for Synodal Parishes

Redemptorists of Bangalore Province Resolve to Implement Synodality in Parish Ministry

Bangalore, 3 March 2025 – In a significant move towards fostering a more synodal Church, 40 Redemptorist priests of the Bangalore Province convened for an online seminar on Implementing Synodality in Parish Ministry and Administration.The seminar, held on 3 March 2025, focused on deepening the understanding of synodality and integrating it into parish structures, especially in light of the Holy Year Jubilee 2025.

The seminar was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Edward Joseph Raju CSsR, Provincial Superior of the Bangalore Province. In his presidential address, Fr. Edward Raj CSsR urged parish priests to embrace synodality as a way of being Church. “We must own synodality in order to implement it effectively,” he emphasized, calling for active participation, co-responsibility, and inclusion in parish life.

Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, National Coordinator for Synod and Jubilee 2025, facilitated the session with an insightful exposition on the practical steps for implementing synodality in parish governance. In the light of The Final Document, and the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033, he highlighted how a synodal approach can lead to deeper communion, participation, and mission-oriented pastoral ministry.

The event was efficiently coordinated by Fr. Sandeep Menezes CSsR and Fr. George, ensuring an interactive and engaging session for the participants.

Voices from the Participants

Fr. Christopher CSsR, a parish priest from Karnataka, shared his enthusiasm: “This seminar has been an eye-opener. Synodality is not just a concept but a call to action. I am now committed to creating more spaces for dialogue and participation in my parish. And I wish more lay people come forward to take up different roles.”

Fr. Arul Sekar CSsR, a missionary in Tamil Nadu, reflected on the session’s impact: “Understanding synodality as a shared responsibility has transformed my approach to ministry. I now see my parish community as co-pilgrims on a journey of faith, where every voice matters.”

As the Redemptorists of Bangalore Province step into the Holy Year Jubilee 2025, they reaffirm their commitment to making their parishes vibrant centers of synodal renewal. This seminar marks a decisive step in embracing a collaborative and inclusive model of Church ministry.

Tamil Nadu Lay Leaders Learn the Synod Final Document

Tamil Nadu Lay Leaders Learning the Final Document in View of Jubilee 2025. Regional Symposium on 'Challenges and Invitations of Jubilee 2025'

On 1 March 2025, the Tamil Nadu Bishops' Council (TNBC) Commission for the Laity organized a Regional Symposium on Challenges and Invitations of Jubilee 2025 at the TNBC Laity Training Centre, Trichy, Tamil Nadu. The event, which brought together 312 lay faithful and priests from 18 dioceses of the Tamil Nadu Region, was a significant step in deepening the understanding of the Final Document of the Synod and preparing for the Jubilee Year.

His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Antony Pappusamy, Archbishop Emeritus of Madurai and Chairman of the TNBC Commission for the Laity, delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the necessity of overcoming division, differentiation, and indifference to foster a more synodal spirit within the local churches. “We need to overcome the challenges of division, differentiation, and indifference in order to be more synodal in our local churches,” he remarked, setting the tone for the discussions that followed.

Fr. Maria Michael, Secretary to the TNBC Commission for the Laity, provided an orientation address, framing the symposium’s objectives. “We are reflecting on the invitations of the Jubilee 2025 in the light of the synod for a synodal Church,” he said, inviting participants to actively engage with the themes of the event.

Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, CCBI National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, delivered an insightful presentation on the role of lay faithful as articulated in the Final Document of the Synod. His exposition enabled participants to see their role in the Church’s mission with renewed clarity. The session was moderated by Mrs. Dhanaseeli Dhivyanathan.

Adding a socio-cultural and political perspective, Mr. Eronimus, an educationist, contextualized Jubilee 2025 within the contemporary realities of Tamil Nadu. This was further complemented by the contribution of Adv. Mr. Rajan, who proposed synodal actions aimed at transformative engagement in society and Church life. These sessions were moderated by Fr. Nithiya Sagayam Anthony OFM Cap, and Mr. Henry Julius respectively.

During the session, the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033 was also introduced, enriching the participants’ understanding of the Church’s long-term vision for evangelization and mission.

Voices from the Participants

Mr. Arul Bhaskar, a lay leader from the Archdiocese of Madurai, shared her reflection: “This symposium has been a profound experience of learning and dialogue. The emphasis on synodality has given me a fresh perspective on how laypeople can actively participate in shaping the Church’s future. I feel inspired to initiate small synodal communities in my parish.”

Mrs. Mary Regina, from the Diocese of Salem, echoed similar sentiments: “Hearing about the Final Document of the Synod and Mission 2033 has motivated me to be more involved in my parish. The discussions on overcoming divisions within our communities were particularly striking. We, as lay leaders, have a crucial role in fostering unity and mission.”

The event began with a procession carrying the Jubilee 2025 cross symbolically marking the journey as pilgrims. At the open hour at the end of the symposium, an action plan was devised to carry the works of the Commission forward in the Jubilee Year.

The symposium concluded with a collective commitment from the participants to embrace the Jubilee 2025 as a time of renewal and transformation. The event was a landmark in preparing the Tamil Nadu lay faithful for a more participatory and mission-oriented Church, embodying the vision of a truly synodal community.

Heralds of Hope: Embracing Vatican II in Mission and Jubilee

The priests of the Mary Queen of Apostles Province of the Heralds of Good News gathered for their annual retreat from 24 to 28 February 2025 at Sacred Heart College, Shenbaganur, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. This year’s retreat held special significance as it was placed within the context of the Ruby Jubilee of the Congregation, marking forty years of its mission in proclaiming the Good News.

Rev. Fr. A. Hermans Raj, Provincial Superior, inaugurated the retreat by situating it in the broader context of the Ruby Jubilee, emphasizing how the call of the Heralds of Good News resonates with the spirit of Vatican II. He invited the priests to see themselves as ‘pilgrims of hope’ in light of the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025, urging them to make an 'inward journey' to rekindle their commitment to evangelization through the wisdom of the Council’s teachings.

Guided by the learned and insightful reflections of Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, the CCBI National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, the retreat centred on the Four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council: Dei Verbum (Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation), Lumen Gentium (Dogmatic Constitution on the Church), Sacrosanctum Concilium (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy), and Gaudium et Spes (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World). The theological, biblical, and pastoral dimensions of these landmark documents were explored in depth, offering the 40 participating priests a renewed vision for their missionary vocation.

The retreat days were marked by profound scriptural reflections, theological expositions, and pastoral applications, leading the priests into an atmosphere of deep prayer and discernment. Each of the Four Constitutions was presented in a way that connected their doctrinal insights with contemporary pastoral challenges.

One of the participants, Rev. Fr. Gnanasekar Kulandai, shared his experience: “This retreat was an eye-opener, helping us reconnect with the vision of Vatican II in a way that makes it relevant for our missionary work today. We are called not just to preach but to live the Gospel in communion with the people we serve.”

Another priest, Rev. Fr. Selvakumar, expressed how the retreat reshaped his understanding of the liturgy: “Sacrosanctum Concilium reminded me of the transformative power of the Eucharist. It renewed my commitment to making the liturgy more participatory and meaningful in my parish.”

As the retreat concluded, the participating priests collectively pledged to be ‘pilgrims of hope’ in their pastoral endeavours, embracing the call of the Jubilee Year and beyond. The retreat served as a moment of spiritual rejuvenation, enabling them to rediscover their vocation in the light of the Church’s teachings and the urgent demands of the modern world.

With hearts renewed and minds enlightened, the priests of the Mary Queen of Apostles Province returned to their respective missions, carrying forward the spirit of Vatican II and the hope of the Gospel. Their commitment to being heralds of good news stands as a testimony to their faithfulness to Christ and the Church.

Fr. A. Britto, Fr. S. Maria Antonyiar, Fr. S. Agustin, and Fr. Maria Antony Velladurai, the members of the Provincial Administration organised the retreat.

Photos courtesy: HGN Mary Queen of Apostles Province Media Team

Jubilee Yātra in the Diocese of Vellore

As part of the clergy annual retreat, the CCBI Jubilee Yātra was held on 21 February 2025 at the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni, with the participation of 110 priests from the Diocese of Vellore. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the Final Document of the Synod and to plan for the Jubilee 2025 celebrations in the parishes.

In his message, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, Bishop of Vellore, exhorted the clergy: "The Jubilee 2025 calls us to embrace a renewed spirit of service, rooted in the Gospel, and to journey together as a witnessing community."

Participants shared their perspectives on the pastoral vision for the Jubilee: "This retreat has deepened my commitment to fostering a culture of encounter and dialogue within our parish communities." "Planning for the Jubilee is not just about events but about transforming lives through faith, prayer, and mission."

The session, which was animated by Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi, CCBI National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025, concluded with a commitment to pastoral renewal and collaboration, ensuring that the Jubilee celebrations in the Diocese of Vellore become a meaningful experience of faith and mission.

Photos courtesy: Diocesan Media Team

Jubilee Yātra in the Diocese of Chingleput

The CCBI Jubilee Yātra was held on 20 February 2025 in the Diocese of Chingleput, Tamil Nadu, as part of the clergy recollection, drawing the participation of 120 priests from across the diocese. This significant gathering served as a moment of deep reflection on the Final Document of the Synod, engaging clergy in discerning pastoral priorities for the Jubilee 2025.

In his message, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Anthonisamy Neethinathan, Bishop of Chingleput encouraged the clergy, stating: "As we journey towards the Jubilee 2025, let us renew our commitment to a Church that listens, accompanies, and serves with the heart of Christ."

The floor discussions brought forth insightful reflections from the participants: "The Synodal process invites us to move beyond structures and embrace a spirituality of communion, making our pastoral outreach truly inclusive." "Jubilee 2025 is a call to reimagine evangelization in our local context, ensuring that the Gospel resonates with the realities of our people." – Fr. Maria Lawrence A.

The recollection concluded with a collective commitment to implementing synodal insights in pastoral ministry, ensuring a more collaborative and missionary Church in preparation for the Jubilee year.

The session was led by Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi and focused on fostering synodal leadership and mission-oriented pastoral renewal. The event was convened by Rev. Fr. I. Yesu Anthony, Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Chingleput.

Photos courtesy: Pastoral Centre

Jubilee Yātra in the Archdiocese of Goa-Daman

The Archdiocese of Goa-Daman marked a momentous step in its spiritual journey by hosting the Jubilee Yātra of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, aligning with the Church's preparation for Jubilee 2025 and the celebration of the Sunday of the Word. The event, held on 23 January 2025 at Pius X Pastoral Centre, Old Goa, brought together 140 participants, including priests, religious, and lay faithful, in a spirit of renewal and hope.

Welcoming the participants and setting the tone for the day, His Excellency Most Rev. Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop and Convenor of the Program, shared an inspiring vision: "It is not a journey on foot but a pilgrimage of the heart; it is not a physical journey, but a spiritual voyage that seeks to connect the believers across the country in a shared pursuit of hope. Renewal, reflection, and consciousness are the milestones of the journey."

In his presidential address, His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa-Daman, emphasized the importance of building ecclesial connect. He stated, "We need to make an ecclesial connect between the Synod for a Synodal Church 2021-2024 and Jubilee 2025. We journey together as pilgrims of hope."

The program was further enriched by Fr. Enoch Macwan, a member of the CCBI National Facilitating Team for Jubilee 2025, who animated the session and introduced the participants to the scope of Jubilee Yātra. He outlined the opportunities presented by Jubilee 2025, encouraging a deep engagement with the themes of hope, renewal, and unity.

A special moment of the gathering was the veneration of the Word of God as the source of hope, emphasizing its central role in the spiritual lives of the faithful.

The Goa-Daman is the 63rd Diocese to host the CCBI Jubilee Yātra, an initiative of the CCBI National Facilitating Team for Jubilee 2025 to take the fruits of synodal discussions to the local churches and to engage them in Jubilee 2025 preparations and celebrations. 

Photos courtesy: Media team, Archdiocese of Goa-Daman

Living the Word: Celebrating 60 Years of Dei Verbum

Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu, 21-23 January 2025. The 22nd National Conference of the CCBI Commission for Bible, held at Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu, brought together 210 participants, including Regional Secretaries, Diocesan Directors, Religious Collaborators, Seminary Professors, Catechists, and Lay Bible Volunteers. Themed “Sixty Years of Dei Verbum: Its Significance for Us Today in India, Towards the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033”, the three-day Bible Congress marked a significant milestone in preparation for the Jubilee Year 2025.

Presidential Address & Book Release

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antonysamy Peter Abir, Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Bible, set the tone for the Congress with his stirring presidential address. He emphasized, “This Bible Congress is an invitation to reflect, celebrate, and act. As we journey together as ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ let us foster a deeper love for the Word of God among the faithful, equip one another with insights and tools for effective biblical ministry, and strengthen our unity as a Church preparing for Jubilee 2025.” 

The Chairman released the handbook "Biblical Pastoral Ministry: Methods and Dynamics," co-authored by Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi. The book was released in the presence of Prof. Dr. Lucien Legrand MEP, Fr. Jan Stefanów SVD, Secretary General of the Catholic Biblical Federation, and Very Rev. Fr. C. Irudayaraj, Rector of the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni.

Felicitations from Eminent Leaders

His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, extended his felicitations to the delegates, highlighting the enduring relevance of Dei Verbum. “This Congress,” he said, “reflecting on the enduring relevance of Dei Verbum, is a call to renew our commitment to being a Church that listens to the Word, interprets it faithfully, and lives it radically.”

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, National Director of PMS - India, commended the National Council of the CCBI Commission for Bible for their vision and dedication. In his address, he reflected, “The Congress, which also serves as a follow-up to the International Symposium on Ecclesia in Asia 25 Years, shall inspire us to move from Dei Verbum to Ecclesia in Asia and to Spes Non Confundit.”

Engaging Sessions and Insights

The Congress featured a keynote address, thought-provoking presentations, and panel discussions by eminent biblical scholars and ministers of the Word. Delegates explored the transformative role of Dei Verbum in the Church’s life and mission, focusing on the theme's contemporary significance in India.

Towards Mission 2033

This gathering marked an important moment in the journey towards the CCBI Pastoral Plan Mission 2033, uniting participants in their shared mission to nurture a vibrant and biblically rooted Church. Discussions aimed at equipping leaders with practical tools for biblical ministry and fostering a culture of listening, interpretation, and radical living of the Word of God.

As the Congress has begun, participants feel inspired to carry forward the rich insights and commitments, ready to deepen their engagement with Scripture and contribute to the broader mission of the Church in India. The event stands as a witness to the Church’s ongoing dedication to the Word of God as it journeys toward the Jubilee 2025 and beyond.

The event was planned and organized by the National Council along with the Regional Secretaries, and was powered by MEP, Pontifical Mission Organizations - India, and Communio.

Photos courtesy: Fr. Vijayaraj Jaunet

Balasore Diocese Inaugurates Jubilee 2025 Celebrations

The Diocese of Balasore (Odisha) inaugurated Jubilee 2025 celebrations on Monday, 6 January 2025, with a meaningful day of reflection at the diocesan headquarters. This gathering, attended by 120 priests, religious, and lay faithful, marked a spiritual beginning for a year focused on hope, renewal, and service.

Welcoming the assembly, Most Rev. Varghese Thottamkara CM, Bishop of Balasore, reminded everyone of the transformative call of this special year, saying, “Jubilee 2025 invites us to be messengers of hope in our life and ministry.”

The day’s reflections were skilfully led by Fr. Enoch Macwan, a member of the National Facilitating Extended Team. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, discussing how to live out the spirit of Jubilee in their communities.

Sharing her thoughts on the gathering, Sr. Mary Thresia, a religious sister from the diocese, expressed, “The Jubilee invites us to rediscover our commitment to serving others. This day’s reflections have stirred my heart and renewed my passion for our shared mission.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. James Francis, a lay leader, remarked, “I feel energized and supported by everyone here. This Jubilee is our moment to work together more closely, sharing hope and light with our families and neighbors.”

With the official inauguration of Jubilee 2025, the faithful of Balasore depart with renewed purpose, prepared to carry out the Church’s mission of hope and unity in the coming year.

The event was convened by Msgr. V. L. Chacko, Vicar General, and Fr. Joseph Marndi, Diocesan Director for Biblical Apostolate.

Photos courtesy: Diocesan Media Team