Diamond Jubilee Concluding Eucharist: A Celebration of Gratitude and Hope

On the evening of January 3rd, St. Francis Xavier’s Chapel in Colaba became the sacred venue for a grand and spiritually enriching event—the Diamond Jubilee concluding Eucharist. This solemn occasion marked the culmination of 60 glorious years of the Congregation’s faith-filled journey. The event commenced at 6 PM with solemn vespers, creating an atmosphere of deep reflection and reverence. The chapel, illuminated with the warm glow of candles and filled with the harmonious chants of the vesper prayers, set a tone of sacredness that resonated with everyone present. It was an evening dedicated to gratitude for the past and hope for the future, as the community gathered to celebrate this historic milestone.

Solemn Celebrations

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Benzy sss, the Superior General, who served as the main celebrant of this momentous occasion. Joining him were a distinguished group of concelebrants, including Fr. Jose Antonio sss (General Consultor), Fr. Philip Watkins sss (Provincial of Australia), Fr. Justin Chawkhan sss (Provincial of Sri Lanka), Fr. Peter Jayakanthan sss (Provincial of India), and a great number of Indian SSS priests along with the neighbouring religious communities. Together, they formed a powerful representation of the unity and shared mission of the SSS family across different regions. The presence of these leaders highlighted the global nature of the community’s mission and the collaborative spirit that has driven its success over the decades. The liturgical celebration was marked by a deep sense of reverence and thanksgiving, with each element meticulously planned to honour the legacy of the past 60 years.

Reflecting on the Province’s Journey

During the homily, Fr. Benzy sss delivered an eloquent reflection on the history of the Indian province. He spoke of its humble beginnings, the milestones achieved, and the trials that shaped its growth, fondly remembering the pioneers Frs. Len McKenna, Paul Raiper, Joe Geran, Bro. Francis. His words brought to life the inspiring story of dedication, perseverance, and faith that has characterised the province’s journey. Fr. Benzy’s homily was not merely a recounting of historical events but a call to the congregation to continue building on this legacy with renewed commitment. He reminded everyone of the sacrifices made by the pioneers and the collective efforts that brought the province to where it stands today. The congregation listened intently, their hearts filled with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.

Acknowledgment of Roots

Fr. Justin Chawkan sss took a moment during the celebration to express profound gratitude to the pioneers who laid the foundation for the Indian and Sri Lankan provinces. In his address, he highlighted the shared roots of these provinces in the Australian province, stating, “We were two – Sri Lanka and India – given birth by the Australians.” This acknowledgment of the interconnectedness and mutual support among the provinces underscored the global mission of the SSS community. Fr. Justin’s words served as a reminder of the bonds that unite the provinces, despite their geographical separation, and the collaborative spirit that continues to strengthen their shared mission. His heartfelt reflection brought a sense of pride and unity to all present. Fr. Justin’s words of thanks were accompanied by a heartfelt wish for the province to continue its good work and embrace a promising future. This expression of gratitude reinforced the collective responsibility of everyone present to contribute to the ongoing mission of the community.

A Time for Renewal

The Eucharistic celebration was more than just a commemoration of 60 years of service; it was a moment of spiritual renewal for the entire community. The liturgy, prayers, and reflections emphasized the importance of faith, unity, and service in continuing the mission entrusted to the congregation. The symbolism of the Eucharist as a source of spiritual nourishment and strength was central to the celebration. It reminded everyone present of their shared commitment to the values that have sustained the community over the decades. The sense of renewal and inspiration was palpable as the congregation reflected on their role in the larger mission.

Looking Ahead

As the Diamond Jubilee celebrations drew to a close, the event left the congregation with a profound sense of purpose and commitment. The Eucharist served not only as a celebration of the past but also as a call to action for the future. The inspiring words of the leaders, the unity displayed by the concelebrants, and the active participation of the congregation all pointed towards a bright and promising path ahead. This historic event will be remembered as a testament to the enduring legacy of the SSS community and its mission to serve with faith, dedication, and love. We look forward to carry on the  legacy of the past 60 years into the future.