Report on the Celebration of the Day of Consecrated Life in the Diocese of Varanasi on 11th and 12th February 2025

The CRI Varanasi Uni hosted a remarkable two-day celebration to honour the Day of Consecrated Life, which took place on the 11th and 12th of February 2025. The event brought together a large gathering of religious under the theme "Pilgrims of Hope." The celebration was filled with moments of spiritual enrichment, cultural expression, and a strong sense of unity, highlighting the beauty and significance of consecrated life within the diocese.

Day 1: A Joyous Beginning

The celebration began on the evening of February 11th at Navsadaha, with a warm welcome from the organizing team, setting the tone for the two days of festivities. The lighting of the lamp, a symbolic gesture of divine presence, was performed by Rt. Rev. Bishop Eugene Joseph, Fr.Anuroop IMS (the President of CRI Varanasi Unit), and the major superiors of various religious congregations in the diocese. Sr. Arpita OLP, Vice President of the CRI Varanasi Local Unit, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, expressing gratitude and excitement for the occasion.

The highlight of the evening was the inspiring message delivered by Bishop Eugene Joseph, who reflected on the theme "Hope does not disappoint." His words encouraged the gathered religious to continue their mission with hope and trust in God’s providence. Following the bishop's message, the major superiors shared reflections on their congregation's charism and their vision for the Jubilee Year 2025, offering valuable insights into the spiritual and apostolic direction of their communities. This was followed by a Sharing by Rev.Fr. Anil Dev, whose spiritual reflection illuminated our path, to have a check on our Relevance and Quality of Life.

The first day concluded with a vibrant cultural program featuring performances from four different zones—Varanasi, Ballia, Gazipur, and Mau. Each zone showcased its unique cultural heritage through dance, music, and skits, adding a joyful and celebratory atmosphere to the gathering. The St. Anne’s Candidates performed a prayer dance, while the MSFS novices presented a melodious musical performance. The cultural evening was a beautiful expression of the unity and diversity within the diocese.

Day 2: A Deepening of Faith

The second day of the celebration began with a solemn morning prayer, led by the Balia Zone, followed by breakfast. Then we went to the Cathedral for an enriching input session by Fr. V. Sebastian. His talk challenged the religious to reflect on their consecrated life and the importance of community living. This session provided a platform for dialogue and interaction among the participants, fostering a deeper sense of communion.

The highlight of Day 2 was the Eucharistic celebration, which began with a candle procession from the Grotto of Our Lady. The entrance dance was performed by the SHM Candidates, while the readings and prayers of the faithful were led by the Gazipur, Mau, and Balia Zones. The liturgy team, under the guidance of Sr. Mable SRA and Sr. Snehal SHM, ensured that the celebration was both solemn and uplifting. The FSM Sisters led the doxology with a devotional "Maha Arati," adding a spiritual depth to the worship.

Closing and Vote of Thanks: The celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr. Wilson MSFS, Treasurer of CRI Varanasi Unit. He expressed gratitude to Bishop Eugene Joseph for his leadership, the organizing team for their meticulous efforts, and all the participants for their enthusiastic contributions. Fr. Wilson highlighted the significance of the theme "Pilgrims of Hope" and encouraged everyone to continue walking together in hope and faith as they return to their respective missions.

The event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended, and reaffirming the importance of consecrated life within the Diocese of Varanasi.