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Hyderabad, January 21, 2025: The Salesians of Don Bosco, Province of St. Joseph, Hyderabad, marked a momentous occasion as they celebrated the Silver Jubilee of the Priestly Ordination and Religious Profession of eight distinguished confreres. The jubilee celebrations were held on January 21, 2025, at Don Bosco Shrine, Bandlaguda Jagir, Hyderabad, with gratitude and joy.
The event honoured four priests celebrating the 25th anniversary of their Priestly Ordination: Fr. Bellamkonda A. Sudhakar, SDB, Fr. Mallavarapu Rayanna, SDB, Fr. Valiaparambil James, SDB, and Fr. Puthussery Sojan, SDB. Also commemorated were four Salesians marking 25 years of their religious profession: Fr. Michael Jayaraj Alex, SDB, Fr. Pitchaimuthu Arul Das, SDB, and Fr. Yandava Kalyan Kumar, SDB
The program commenced at 5:30 PM with a solemn Holy Eucharist, a deeply spiritual celebration that set the tone for the evening. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the jubilarians, who gathered around the altar in a spirit of gratitude, offering thanks to God and Mary Help of Christians for their unwavering faithfulness and abundant blessings over the past 25 years of their dedicated service.
A highlight of the Eucharist was the homily delivered by Fr. Michael Jayaraj Alex, SDB, one of the jubilarians. In his profound and heartfelt sermon, Fr. Michael eloquently reflected on the sanctity of the priesthood, emphasizing its sacred and transformative nature as a divine calling. He spoke passionately about the unique role of the priest as a shepherd and servant, entrusted with the spiritual care and guidance of the faithful.
Fr. Michael also touched upon the mutual relationship between priests and the community they serve. He urged the congregation to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by priests, calling for a deeper sense of consideration, understanding, and support toward those who dedicate their lives to the Church and its mission. His words resonated deeply with all present, inspiring a renewed appreciation for the priesthood and the spiritual bond shared between priests and the faithful.
At 7:30 PM, a felicitation ceremony followed, where the confreres were lauded for their contributions to the Salesian mission, pastoral care, and dedication to their religious vows. The Provincial, Fr. Santiagu Thomas, SDB, extended heartfelt congratulations and called upon all Salesians to emulate their commitment and service.
The evening concluded with a festive dinner, bringing together Salesians, clergy, family members, and well-wishers, symbolizing the unity and joy of the Salesian community. This silver jubilee celebration stood as a testament to the unwavering commitment of these confreres to their mission of serving the youth and the Church.
