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Bhopal Archdiocese Grandly Concludes Jubilee Year 2025: 'Pilgrims of Hope'

28 Dec, 2025

A grand closing ceremony for the Jubilee Year 2025, themed "Pilgrims of Hope," was celebrated with immense joy and spiritual fervor at the Assumption Co-Cathedral Church in Bhopal on Sunday 28 Dec. 2025. The event was marked by a solemn Holy Mass presided over by the Most Rev. A.A.S. Durairaj, Archbishop of Bhopal. The occasion held double significance as the Catholic Church also observed the "Feast of the Holy Family" on the same day.

​During his address, Archbishop Durairaj stated that this Jubilee Year, declared by Pope Francis, has been a period of spiritual renewal and a time to light the lamp of hope within society. He called upon the faithful, reminding them that while the formal Jubilee Year is ending, their journey as "Pilgrims of Hope" must continue in their daily lives. On the occasion of the Feast of the Holy Family, the Archbishop offered special prayers for the peace, prosperity, and unity of all families in Bhopal, urging everyone to take inspiration from the lives of Mary, St. Joseph, and Lord Jesus to live with love and forgiveness.

​The ceremony saw a large gathering of the faithful from various churches across Bhopal city, with the cathedral premises resonating with special hymns and devotional songs. At the conclusion of the Mass, the Holy Year was officially closed with symbolic rituals and special prayers. Jubilee Coordinator Father Thomas Philip mentioned that various social and spiritual activities were organized throughout the year to mark the Jubilee. He acknowledged that the programs flourished due to the collaborative efforts of Archbishop Durairaj and Vicar General Father Ishwardas, alongside the Archdiocese's commissions and the Archbishop's strategic guidance.

The event concluded with a blessing for the priests, religious brothers, sisters, and the large number of devotees present, spreading a message of peace and harmony.