The India-Great Britain-Ireland Province of the Society of St Paul honoured on 20 August eight of its priests who completed 25 years of their religious priesthood. The colourful event in Mumbai, which coincided with the 110th anniversary of the Foundation of the Society of St Paul, was a momentous occasion filled with gratitude, joy, and a deep sense of fraternal love. The eight jubilarians — Frs Devasia Puthiyaparambil, Dominic Tirkey, Herman Dungdung, Joby Madan, Jose Pulickakunnel, Robert Correa, Vincent Kuttikatt and Wilson Thekkanath — concelebrated a solemn Thanksgiving Mass, joined by numerous priests, religious, family members and friends from across India. The theme of gratitude was highlighted in the Jubilee celebration, a theme encapsulated in the words of 2 Corinthians 9:15, “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift,” which was also highlighted by Fr Saju George, the Provincial Vicar, during his welcome address. Fr Devasia Puthiaparambil, in his homily, dwelt on the significance of the occasion, describing it as a time to celebrate God’s abundant blessings while acknowledging personal weaknesses and failures. He encouraged the Jubilarians, making many references to their beloved Founder, Blessed James Alberione, to embrace the challenges ahead, emphasizing that “the best things are yet to come”. The liturgy was beautifully enriched by the melodious singing of the Pious Disciples of Divine Master, led by Sr Gracelet, adding a spiritual depth to the celebration. Following the Thanksgiving Mass, the jubilarians, dressed in special princely costumes, were led to the podium, each accompanied with decorative umbrella, for the felicitation programme. The programme, emceed by Fr Renold Paschal, featured a classical dance performances by Sr Sushma PDDM and team, and a special dance performance by sisters from the Daughters of St Paul who captivated the audience with their rhythmic and graceful movements. One of the highlights of the event was the release of the Hindi version of the Bible Diary (God’s Word) —Ish Vachan 2025. Fr Henry D'Souza, the Parish Priest of St Theresa's Parish, Bandra, launched the book and presented copies to Rev. Fr Tomy Thomas, the Provincial Superior of the SVD, Mumbai Province, and to Fr Joseph Tirkey, the Editor of Hindi Publications. Then there was a special felicitation of the Jubilarians presenting them with personalized pencil sketches of their images. They were also honoured with traditional shawls by Fr Joby Mathew, the Provincial Superior of the Society of St Paul, India. Fr Joby in his message, acknowledged his gratitude and love towards the Jubilarians for their long years of dedicated service in the Society of St Paul. The celebration of the Priestly Silver Jubilee was not just a tribute to the eight priests but also a testament to the enduring spirit of the Society of St Paul, as it continues to inspire and nurture its members in their mission to spread the Good News by modern means of communication.
