Media Release
Mangaluru, Apr 7: In a grand and spiritually uplifting ceremony, the Episcopal City Deanery inaugurated the jubilee year 2025 at St Joseph Seminary premises, Jeppu, on Sunday, April 6. Themed ‘Pilgrims of hope; weapons of the gospel’, drawing clergy, religious, and laity from across the region. The evening was compered by Fr Antony George, who guided the programme with poise and grace.
The celebration commenced with a soulful welcome dance by the students of St Ann’s School, beautifully choreographed to a Hindi hymn that highlighted messages of peace, unity, and divine presence. This was followed by a warm welcome address delivered by Fr Bonaventure Nazareth, who extended heartfelt greetings to His lordship Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru, along with Msgr Maxim Noronha, Fr Ronald Serrao, rector of St Joseph Seminary, and all present.
A key highlight of the inauguration was a spiritually evocative dance by Lourdes Central School students titled ‘Vachan Tera Hey Prabhu’ (Your Word, O Lord). The performance set the tone for the evening, reminding the faithful of the power and presence of the Word of God in Christian life.
Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha delivered a thought-provoking address, reflecting on the biblical tradition of jubilee celebrations. He stated, “The Gospel lifts our hearts and brings life.” Drawing from scripture, he spoke of Mary Magdalene’s encounter at the tomb, which transformed her into a joyful witness of the Resurrection.
He described the Word of God as “life-giving, like conceiving and giving birth to God through faithful listening.” Citing the example of Jonah, the bishop warned that resisting God’s call may result in losing the capacity to receive His Word. His Lordship also lauded the organisers for their commitment and meticulous preparation, saying, “You have made this a truly spiritually enriching experience.”
Fr Arun Lobo later introduced the panel of judges for the cultural segment. The jury featured Fr Francis Rodrigues, parish priest of Adyapadi and former editor of Rakno, Alwyn Noronha, renowned musician and headmaster of Bajpe High School, and Swapna Crasta, a seasoned teacher and actor from Paldane.
The cultural programme, compered by Bro Avil Santmayor, unfolded with performances steeped in devotion and creativity. Cassia parishioners opened with a chanting of Psalms 5 and 7 that inspired quiet reflection. Bendur parishioners followed with a powerful skit on Mary Magdalene’s transformation into a disciple of hope.
Jeppu parishioners presented a heartfelt Psalm performance, while Kulur parishioners portrayed the love and guidance of Christ through their skit on Jesus the Good Shepherd. Milagres parishioners offered a deeply spiritual musical presentation of a Psalm, and the evening concluded with a stirring skit on St John the Baptist by the Tannirbavi parishioners, highlighting the prophet’s fearless proclamation.
The event stood as a profound expression of faith and artistic talent, reflecting the unity and vision of the Episcopal City Deanery. It marked a resounding start to the jubilee year 2025, urging the faithful to journey forward as ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ and to become steadfast ‘Weapons of the Gospel’ in today’s world.