MAJOR EVENTS

A large number of the faithful from the parishes gathered at Buxar Cathedral Church early in the morning on 29 Dec. to participate in the historic event of the inauguration of the Jubilee Year 2025. Bishop James Shekhar, who meticulously planned the inauguration months in advance, led the celebration with the support of a diocesan Jubilee committee and parish-level organizers from the Cathedral Parish.

The ceremony was meticulously planned and executed by Bp. James Shekhar and Jubilee Committee supported by the local organizers. The ceremony began with an hour of adoration, followed by the hoisting of the Jubilee flag, the formal declaration and the recitation of Jubilee Prayer. The blessing of the specially carved wooden Jubilee cross, which was carried in a solemn procession and now erected in the Cathedral Church, added to the significance of the occasion. The event concluded with a Solemn Mass.

Cathedral Parish priest, Fr. Anand Kumar along with the parish community ensured the smooth execution of the event. Priests from across the diocese contributed responsibly, fulfilling their respective roles with dedication. The Cathedral Church is to serve as a pilgrim centre. The whole diocesan event has set the tone for a year of grace, renewal and celebration for the faithful.

The Bhojpur Dean, Fr. Francis Palli SJ organized a three-day deanery level retreat on 21-24 Nov. at Dumraon. It was led by Fr. Satya SJ and his team from Fatima Susamachar Kendra, Patna.It was heartening to see the devotion of the retreatants, more than thousand in number from 8 parishes and especially the enthusiasm of our young diocesan priests. It is true that 'great things happen when God mixes with man'.

The Eucharistic procession, celebrating the feast of Christ the King was the icing on the cake. The peaceful long winding serpentine Rally along the busy streets of Dumraon, invoking the Eucharistic Lord's blessings of peace, prosperity and unity for the town, while loudly acclaiming Jesus as the Lord and King, will ever remain etched in our memories.

Fr. Francis Palli, Dean of Bhojpur

The Diocesan Family Commission, headed by Fr. Charles Isaac (V. G.) arranged the much sought after marriage preparation course from 6 to 10 November at Sewa Dham. The twenty participants guided by the resource parsons benefited much from the programme. It will definitely help these young men and women to negotiate with the challenges of marriage life in years ahead.

The Diocesan Annual Youth Retreat took place from the 15th to the 17th of November 2024, bringing together 60 enthusiastic youth from various parishes. The theme for this spiritual gathering was "Anubhav" (Experience), which focused on fostering a deep connection with God's love.

The retreat was led by the dynamic preacher Mr. Ajin Joseph, who inspired and enlightened the youth on the transformative power of God's Love, Confession, and the Holy Spirit. His sessions resonated deeply with participants, providing them with spiritual nourishment and an opportunity to experience the divine presence in a profound way. The participants expressed immense gratitude for this enriching spiritual journey. This retreat not only rejuvenated the spiritual lives of the youth but also strengthened their faith, leaving them motivated to live as true witnesses of Christ.

Fr. Jitender Kumar
Youth director, Buxar Diocese

On 12 of December the priests of Buxar Diocese had their recollection, guided by Fr. Richard D'souza SJ.

The Rohtas Deanery hosted its annual retreat and Marian pilgrimage on 7 and 8 December, uniting clergy, religious, and laity, above 700 in number, for spiritual renewal. The event attended by many priests, religious and lay faithful was inaugurated by Fr. Binoy Thomas, the Dean of Rohtas.

The retreat, held at St. John's Church, Durgawati, featured inspiring talks by Frs. Ranjit IMS, Vikas, and IMS. On 7 December the Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Archbishop Emeritus William D'Souza, SJ. Eucharistic procession in the church campus followed.

The feast day Mass on 8 December was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Charles, Vicar General. Special thanks to Fr. Pritam IMS, the PP and his team guided by Fr. Dean. Many participants reported spiritual renewal and blessings through this meaningful event.

The diocesan level Annual Krus Veer Rally took place from 3rd to 5th November 2024 at the Cathedral Church, Buxar. Fr. Charlie, the VG inaugurated the same by hoisting the Krus Veer flag. Its theme was "Let the Children Come to Me" (Mk 10:14). This year the event consisted of a retreat which was led by Mr. Rohit Sharma from Chattisgarh. On the second day we had Krus Veer Rally, followed by the Eucharist celebrated by our Bishop, James Shekhar. Two hundred Krus Veer children participated in the program.

Fr. Susai Raj

Inter School Competition for classes V-VIII was organized by LCC, Bhojpur on Nov. 30 for three events: Quiz, Speech (English and Hindi) and Folk Dance. Twelve Schools participated. CMS students stood First in Hindi Speech and 2 in Quiz. Student of St. Xavier's, Ara Yashwasini secured 2 Prize in English Speech in this competition while dance was awarded to the SMS, Buxar. Leading the event from front was the LCC Bhojpur President, Fr. Anand, supported by his team members and the SMS ICSE, Buxar who ensured a smooth conduct of the event in their maiden attempt.