Jubilee of Priests Celebrated at St Francis Xavier Church, Udyavar

The Commission for Seminary Formation & Religious, together with the Parish Pastoral Council, joyfully organised the Jubilee celebration of priests at St Francis Xavier Church, Udyavar. The felicitation program was held immediately after the 7:30 am Holy Mass on Sunday, 10th August, transforming the morning into a moment of thanksgiving, joy, and inspiration.

The short but heartfelt program was gracefully compered by Mrs Dora Arouza, the Coordinator of the Seminary Formation & Religious Commission. The parish community honoured both the Parish Priest, Rev Fr Anil D’Souza, and the Assistant Parish Priest, Rev Fr Stephan Rodrigues, in recognition of their dedicated pastoral service, spiritual guidance, and tireless commitment to the flock entrusted to their care.

In his reply, Rev Fr Stephan Rodrigues expressed deep gratitude to the parishioners for their constant encouragement, prayers, and support in every spiritual and pastoral endeavour. With warmth and humility, he acknowledged the joy of serving the parish and the blessing of being part of a vibrant, faith-filled community.

Fr Stephan also shared a heartfelt appeal to the faithful: to foster and encourage vocations to the priesthood among children and youth. He reminded parents that inspiring their children to embrace the call of God is one of the greatest gifts they could offer — not only to the Holy Catholic Church, but to the mission of Christ in the world.