The Jubilee Year 2025 was inaugurated with great splendour at the Holy Rosary Church, Yelahanka, for the Chikkaballapura Deanery on 31 December 2024. This momentous event marked the beginning of a year dedicated to spiritual renewal, unity, and deeper reflection on faith. The event brought together parishioners, clergy, and members of the community to witness the grand opening of this historic occasion, blending tradition with modern practices to foster unity and faith among all present. The Special Guests for the occasion were inmates from the Missionaries of Charity, Home for the Destitute.
The inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025 was held on Tuesday 31 December 2024 at Holy Rosary Church, Yelahanka. The event began at 8.00 pm with an invocation dance, the Jubilee Flag hoisting and Candlelight Prayer followed by Adoration and Night Vigil to mark this significant occasion.
1. Opening Procession and Flag Hoisting
Fr. Gregory Mariappa, the Parish Priest, carried the Jubilee Flag in a grand procession through the church premises. He was accompanied by priests, parishioners, volunteers, special inmates from Missionaries of Charity, home for the Destitute, and community members holding candles, symbolizing the light of faith and hope.
Co-Celebrant Fr Gilbert explained in detail the significance of the theme of the Jubilee Year “Pilgrims of Hope” and the relevance of each element of the Jubilee Flag. The Jubilee Flag was then blessed in a solemn ceremony and hoisted as a mark of the formal inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025. The flag symbolizes the unity and spiritual journey of the faithful during this sacred year.
2. Cultural and Spiritual Programs
Prayer Dance: A beautifully choreographed prayer dance was performed by parish youth, showcasing their devotion and joy. The performance added a cultural and spiritual dimension to the event, captivating the attendees with its grace and symbolism.
· Lighting of the Lamp:The lighting of the ceremonial lamp by parishioners, youth representatives, and the Parish Priest marked the official beginning of the Jubilee Year. This act signified enlightenment, unity, and the presence of God’s grace in the lives of the faithful.
3. Holy Adoration and Vigil Mass
The faithful participated in Holy Adoration, spending time in prayer and Thanksgiving before the Blessed Sacrament. The vigil culminated in a solemn Holy Mass, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Gregory Mariappa, along with Fr. Gilbert and Fr. Mathias. The Mass emphasized the themes of forgiveness, mercy, and hope, aligning with the Jubilee's core values.
Attendance and Participation
The event saw enthusiastic participation from various se
gments of the community, including:
· Parishioners, volunteers, and members of the Parish Council
· Parish youth and senior citizens
· Religious Sisters, and Members of the Vincent de Paul Society and Legion of Mary
· Altar boys and girls, alongside other laymen and women
Special guests included inmates from the Missionaries of Charity, Home for the Destitute, whose presence added a touch of grace and inspiration to the occasion.
Acknowledgments
The success of the Jubilee Year 2025 inauguration would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the following members/groups:
· Special thanks to Most Rev. Dr Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore and Auxiliary Bishops.
· Clergy: Fr. Gregory Mariappa, Fr. Gilbert, and Fr. Mathias, for their spiritual leadership and guidance.
· Sisters from Missionaries of Charity.
· Parishioners and Volunteers: For their active participation in the procession, cultural performances, and event coordination.
· Parish Council and Youth Groups: For their invaluable support in organizing and executing the event.
· Sponsors and Benefactors: For their generous contributions to making this event possible.
The inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025 at Holy Rosary Church, Yelahanka, was a deeply meaningful and spiritually enriching experience. It successfully set the tone for a year of reflection, renewal, and unity among the faithful. The Chikkaballapura Deanery is now poised to continue this journey, celebrating the Jubilee's timeless values while fostering a deeper connection with God and the community.
As we embark on this sacred year, may the Jubilee 2025 inspire us to live in hope, forgiveness, and faith, carrying forward the rich traditions of the Church into a brighter future.
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