The Diocese of Ootacamund, Tamil Nadu, celebrated an important step toward Jubilee 2025 by raising the Jubilee flag on Tuesday, 12 November 2024. This was part of the CCBI Jubilee Yātra to the diocese, with around 90 priests and religious gathered for a special day of updates on the Synod for a Synodal Church and the upcoming Jubilee.
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. A. Amalraj, Bishop of Ootacamund, presided over the gathering, extending a warm welcome to the National Team led by Rev. Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi. In his address, Bishop Amalraj spoke about the significance of the Jubilee, saying, "Jubilee 2025 is an occasion for celebrating God’s grace and mercy, a time for renewal and for deepening our faith as we journey together as a Church."
Msgr. V. Christopher Lawrence, Vicar General, in his introductory address, highlighted the harmonious vision of the CCBI in linking the Synod, Jubilee 2025, and the Pastoral Plan Mission 2033. He said, "The CCBI has beautifully connected these milestones, setting a clear path for our Church to move forward in mission and unity."
The event, coordinated by Rev. Fr. Stephen Lazer, Procurator and Rev. Fr. Felix Jayakumar, Diocesan Contact Person for Jubilee 2025, included moments of reflection, learning, and fellowship, empowering the participants to carry forward the spirit of Jubilee in their respective ministries.
During the event the outline of the Pastoral Plan 2033 was exposed to the gathering.
The Diocese of Ootacamund’s Jubilee flag is now a symbol of faith and hope, encouraging everyone to join in this spiritual journey as we prepare for Jubilee 2025.
Photos courtesy: Fr. S. Anthony Raj