A Celebration of Faith, Unity, and Hope

The Diocese of Baruipur marked a monumental moment in its spiritual journey as it officially inaugurated the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, on the 29th of December, 2024, in line with the Holy See's decree. This extraordinary event began with a vibrant and sacred ceremony that united hearts, minds, and souls in prayer, reverence, and joyful celebration.

On the afternoon of the inauguration, the Palli Unnayan Samiti Baruipur's premises became the sacred ground for the grand beginning of this momentous occasion. The event was marked by the presence of around 600 faithful, many religious women and men, about 40 priests, and Rt. Rev. Shyamal Bose, the Bishop of Baruipur, along with Bishop Emeritus Savadore Lobo. Under the graceful leadership of Fr. Tushar Augustine Gomes, who served as the master of ceremonies, the atmosphere was charged with fervent faith.

The opening ceremony commenced with a grand procession of the Priests, Bishops and the altar servers who proceeded towards the altar with the Jubilee Cross, a powerful symbol of Christ's love and sacrifice. This cross was placed at the heart of the altar, setting the tone for the spiritual journey ahead.

Bishop Shyamal Bose, with a voice full of blessing and love, led the congregation in a prayer of unity. To mark the inauguration of the Jubilee year, the release of a dove displayed a beautiful representation of peace, soaring high as a sign of hope for the world. Mr. Ashim Campoo read a portion of the Spes Non-Confundit, the Bull of Indiction, in Bengali, connecting the faithful to the heart of the Jubilee's theme. The Gospel was then read by Fr. Ujjwal Mondal, the Diocesan Coordinator of the Jubilee.

With hearts full of reverence, the Jubilee Cross was carried in a palanquin by four dedicated pallbearers. The pilgrimage of the Pilgrims of Hope began with the Presbyterium and Faithful, walking together chanting the litany of the Saints. This journey from the Palli Unnayan Samiti Baruipur to the courtyard of Baruipur Cathedral was a testimony to the unity and spiritual strength of the Diocese. The procession became a beautiful witness to the hundreds of people of other faith as it passed through the main road.

As the procession neared its destination, some key events of the celebration followed. Firstly, the Jubilee Cross was venerated by Bishop Shyamal Bose, followed by the hoisting of the Jubilee flag. The congregation witnessed a beautiful rite of the commemoration of Baptism, following which the Holy Eucharist continued with the singing of the gloria.

Before the Holy Mass concluded, Fr. Ujjwal Mondal shared an inspiring overview of the upcoming Jubilee 2025 program, offering a glimpse into the spiritual journey that lies ahead. To help all believers stay connected to the vision of the Jubilee, a special booklet detailing the Synodal process and key aspects of Jubilee 2025, Fr. Pradeep Roy, after a short introduction, called upon the Bishop to release the booklet, the first copy of which was presented to Mr. Rupchand Baidya, a Core Committee member of the Jubilee.

The celebration concluded with words of appreciation from Fr. Kanauj Roy VG, acknowledging the dedicated participation and cooperation of everyone involved in making this event a resounding success.

This grand inaugural event of 2025 years of the birth of Christ was not just a ceremony; it was the start of an extraordinary journey that will deepen the faith of the Diocese of Baruipur. As we step together into this year of grace, renewal, and spiritual growth, may this Jubilee be a beacon of peace, love, reconciliation and hope for all.