“Jubilee Year – A Day with the Diocesan Clergy”
The Conference of Religious of India (CRI), Mangalore Unit, joyfully organized and animated a special day for the Diocesan Clergy of Mangalore in celebration of Pastors’ Day, marking the Jubilee Year with reverence and fellowship on Wednesday, October 1st at Saint Joseph’s seminary Jeppu.
The day began with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration at Saint Joseph Church, Jeppu, presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore and concelebrated by Retired Bishop Aloysius Paul Dsouza, along with 55 Priests and 65 religious women. This spiritual gathering set a prayerful tone for the rest of the day, invoking blessings and gratitude for the pastoral ministry.
Following the Mass, the celebration continued at the Jubilee Hall, Jeppu, where Rev. Fr Dominic Vas, CRI President, warmly welcomed the gathering. The atmosphere was enlivened by a vibrant and enthusiastic welcome dance performed by the candidates of Bethany congregation from Rosa Mystica, Gurpur, showcasing their talent and hospitality.
Adding an element of engagement and learning, Rev. Fr Melwin Pinto, SJ, conducted an interactive quiz session, keeping the audience energized and intellectually stimulated. This was followed by a short and focused group discussion, encouraging meaningful reflection and dialogue among the participants. Winners of the quiz were acknowledged and awarded with prizes, adding a joyful and celebratory touch.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Rev. Fr Anisio Mota, CRI Secretary, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and contributors. The gathering then moved on to share in a fellowship meal, strengthening bonds of communion among the diocesan clergy and religious.
It was heartening to witness the presence and participation of Superior Generals, Provincials, Superiors and especially the Diocesan Clergy, who were the honored guests of the day. The active and gracious involvement of Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha in every part of the program added deeper meaning and joy to the celebration.
The CRI Executive Committee deserves special appreciation for their wholehearted commitment and joyful coordination, ensuring the success of this spiritually enriching and fraternal event.
