Anekal Jesuit Mission Concludes Golden Jubilee with Grand Celebration
On : 2025-06-28
The Anekal Jesuit Mission marked the grand conclusion of its Golden Jubilee celebrations on 28th June 2025, under the inspiring theme "ಜ್ಞಾನ - ಧ್ಯಾನ - ಸೇವೆಯ ಸಂಗಮ, ಸುವರ್ಣ ಕಾಲದ ಸಂಭ್ರಮ"
(A Confluence of Knowledge, Contemplation and Service – A Celebration of the Golden Era).
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, joined by Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, Provincial of the Karnataka Jesuit Province, and Fr Chinnapan Mariaraj SJ, one of the pioneering figures of the Anekal Mission. They were accompanied by former Superiors, Jesuits from across Karnataka, and Parish Priests from neighbouring missions.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from a wide cross-section of the Jesuit apostolic family: members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), staff and students of St Joseph’s PU College and St Joseph’s School, the team from CIRW, parishioners, benefactors, well-wishers, and religious communities from the region.
In his homily, Fr Melwin Lobo SJ offered a powerful reflection on the legacy of the Anekal Jesuit Mission, highlighting its deep-rooted commitment to education, social upliftment, and empowerment of the marginalised.
Following the Mass, a short but meaningful felicitation ceremony and cultural programme took place. A special souvenir chronicling the 50-year journey of the Anekal Jesuit Mission was officially released by Archbishop Peter Machado alongside Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, Fr Shanthraj SJ (Superior of the Anekal Mission), Fr Chinnapan Mariaraj SJ, and Fr Yesunath SJ, the Jubilee Coordinator.
In his address, the Archbishop lauded the Jesuits for their unwavering dedication to service, calling on them to continue being “beacons of hope” in society. Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ echoed this sentiment, praising the mission’s remarkable impact on social justice, education, and women’s empowerment, and stressing how small acts of service can have life-changing effects.
Former Superiors, Parish Priests, and Directors of Works (DoWs) from CIRW, JFCT, St Joseph’s College, and St Joseph’s School were honoured during the felicitation for their committed service over the years.
The cultural segment featured spirited performances by students of St Joseph’s institutions, Bala Jyothi Hostel residents, and SHG women. Traditional dances and thought-provoking awareness songs added colour and depth to the celebration, reflecting the mission’s cultural vibrancy and social consciousness. The day concluded with a joyful agape meal, drawing to a close a day filled with gratitude, celebration, and a renewed commitment to the Jesuit mission in Anekal.
Reported by Fr Shantharaj Thomas, SJ
