As part of Jubilee 2025, the Adorers communities in Kolkata and Punjab, from the Kolkata Province, have actively participated in the opening celebrations, reaffirming their commitment to the message of hope, reconciliation, and transformation of this Holy Year.

The Opening of the Jubilee in Kolkata

In response to Pope Francis’ decree, Mons. Thomas D’Souza, archbishop of Kolkata, inaugurated Jubilee 2025: The Year of Hope at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary, Murgihatta, on Sunday, December 29, 2024. This special day coincided with the Feast of the Holy Family, making it a meaningful occasion for the faithful of Kolkata, among whom were the Sisters Adorers of that community.

As a symbolic gesture of the Jubilee theme: “Pilgrims of Hope”, a solemn procession took place through the cathedral courtyard. Near the main entrance, young girls performed the traditional ritual of washing the Archbishop’s hands, signifying purification and renewal.

Following this, Archbishop D’Souza lifted the Jubilee Cross in prayer and hoisted the Jubilee Flag, while the Jubilee Song resounded in the cathedral. Holding the Jubilee Cross high, he then entered the church, where he was welcomed with a liturgical dance.

Once inside, he placed the Cross near the altar, blessed the Baptismal Font, and sprinkled holy water over the gathered faithful, signifying renewal and commitment to faith.

During his homily, he reflected on the journey of Jesus’ parents from their home to Jerusalem and back, emphasizing their simple family life of love, joy, faith, and unity a profound inspiration for Christian families today.

The Jubilee Opening in Jalandhar

On January 1, 2025, the Jubilee Year 2025, themed “Pilgrimage of Hope”, was solemnly launched at the Cathedral of St. Mary in the diocese of Jalandhar.

The special Mass for the Jubilee Year inauguration was presided over by Bishop Angelo Gracias, marking the beginning of a year dedicated to hope, renewal, and faith.

A procession carrying the Holy Cross brought together thousands of faithful, symbolizing a collective pilgrimage of faith guided by hope. The Jubilee Pilgrim Cross was then distributed to the Deaneries, reinforcing the call to reconciliation and hope throughout the diocese.

Concluding the celebration, Bishop Gracias encouraged all present to embark on a Pilgrimage of Hope, so that through our witness, hope may be shared with all those who anxiously seek it.

A Year of Faith, Renewal, and Commitment

The Jubilee 2025 celebrations in Kolkata and Jalandhar mark the beginning of a spiritually enriching year for the Adorers of Kolkata Province and the wider Catholic community. Sisters Adorers from the Punjab community attended this event.

As pilgrims of hope, we continue this journey with faith, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to sharing God’s love and mercy with all.

May this Jubilee Year inspire us to walk together in faith, reconciliation, and hope, strengthening our bond as one universal Church.

What is the Jubilee 2025?

The Jubilee 2025, proclaimed by the Catholic Church under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”, is a time of grace, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal.

Celebrated every 25 years, the Jubilee is an invitation to deepen our faith, embrace God’s mercy, and strengthen our commitment to the Gospel.

In May 2024, Pope Francis introduced the Holy Year through the Papal Bull Spes Non Confundit (“Hope Does Not Disappoint”), inspired by Romans 5:5. In this document, the Holy Father emphasized that this Jubilee will be a year characterized by unwavering hope, praying that it may help us restore trust—in the Church, in society, and in our relationships with one another.

The Jubilee Year 2025 will be celebrated from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, with liturgical celebrations, pilgrimages, and spiritual activities in Rome and dioceses worldwide.