The Centenary Jubilee Celebration of the Santal Mission was marked with grandeur and enthusiasm, commemorating 100 years of dedicated service. The event, held at St Xavier’s College, Maharo, was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Most Reverend Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The Guests of Honour included Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Kolkata, who presided over the Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist, along with Most Rev. Vincent Aind, Archbishop of Ranchi, host Bishops Most Rev. Julius Marandi, Bishop of Dumka, Most Rev. Fulgence Tigga and Most Rev. Francis Tirkey, Monsignor Joseph Galea-Curmi, Auxiliary Bishop of Malta, Fr Jimmy Bartolo, the representative of the Euro-Mediterranean Province, His Excellency Mr Reuben Gauci, High Commissioner of Malta to India, Rev.Fr Stany D’Souza, President of the Jesuit Conference of South Asia, as well as several Bishops, Provincials, esteemed Dignitaries, Fathers, and Sisters. The celebration was further enriched by the participation of approximately 20,000 lay faithful and well wishers, making it a truly memorable occasion.
Following the ceremonial washing of the feet of the dignitaries and the traditional entrance procession, His Eminence Leopoldo Girelli illuminated the gathering by switching on 100 bulbs, each representing a milestone in the mission’s journey of growth and enlightenment. The glow of the lights mirrored the spirit of the occasion, signifying hope, renewal, and an unwavering commitment to the mission’s cause. This was followed by a heartfelt welcome address by Fr Provincial K.C. Stephen SJ, who gratefully acknowledged the tireless efforts of the missionaries in making the Santal mission what it is today. In his homily, the host Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Marandi, further enriched the moment with his reflections on the journey, challenges, and triumphs. The Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist infused the gathering with a profound sense of solemnity, gratitude, and reverence. At the end of the Eucharist, the Bishops, Provincials, and dignitaries were honoured by the three host Bishops, and the host Bishops were honoured by the Apostolic Nuncio.
In their address, the Apostolic Nuncio and other esteemed dignitaries lauded the legacy of the Santal Mission and its contributions to the spiritual and social well-being of the people of God in the region. The celebration was further enriched by vibrant cultural performances, where parishes and institutions presented mesmerizing dances and soul-stirring skits, capturing the essence of local tradition and unity. The event also featured a heartfelt felicitation ceremony, during which some of the past and present members who dedicated their lives to the Santal Mission were honoured for their unwavering service and invaluable contributions. As the jubilant occasion drew to a close, heartfelt gratitude was extended to all participants and well-wishers whose support and presence added to the grandeur of the event.
