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Golden Jubilee of INC as Province, Sesquicentennial Grotto, and Jubilee Hall Inaugurated
Indore, India, February 27, 2025 – A momentous occasion marked the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the India Central Province (INC) of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) as a province (1975-2025).
The event also witnessed the inauguration of the Sesquicentennial Grotto and Sesquicentennial Jubilee Hall at Seva Sadan, the provincial headquarters of the India Central Province of SVDs.
The grand ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Fr. Xavier T. SVD, Vice-Superior General of the Society of the Divine Word, along with all PRM Superiors of the Indo-Bangla Subzone, making it a truly golden moment.
Fr. Xavier T. SVD inaugurated the Sesquicentennial Jubilee Hall in the presence of Fr. Paulraj SVD, Provincial Superior of INC, along with Archbishop Durai Raj SVD, Archbishop Leo Cornelio SVD, Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal SVD, PRM Superiors, INC confreres, and the SSpS sisters. Archbishop Durai Raj SVD, the Archbishop of Bhopal, bestowed his blessings upon the hall, officially making it available for the use of INC confreres.
The event commenced with a warm welcome by Fr. Paulraj SVD, who honored all dignitaries with a traditional shawl and garland. This was followed by a short video presentation by Fr. Anthony Swamy SVD, the Communication Coordinator, highlighted the INC’s remarkable journey from 1932 to 2025, evoking cherished memories among the attendees.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. Xavier T. SVD articulated his thoughts through three key pillars: Membership, Mission, and Model. He elaborated on the significance of membership within the society, delved into the core mission of the SVDs as we commemorate 150 years, and drew inspiration from St. Arnold Janssen, St. Joseph Freinademetz, and Pope Francis. Their unwavering commitment, humility, and passion for humanity served as guiding principles for the confreres and sisters of the India Central Province.
A significant highlight of the event was the release of the book Martyr of Love: The Life of St. Freinademetz, authored by Fr. Clarence SVD. The author provided a brief insight into the book’s contents, emphasizing its relevance to the SVD’s mission.
Acknowledging the contributions of the documentary team behind Witnessing to the Light – Indo-Bangla Subzone, Fr. Xavier T. SVD felicitated Fr. Anthony Swamy SVD, the convener, Fr. Clarence SVD, and Fr. Dixson Lawrence D’Souza for their dedicated efforts in bringing the project to fruition.
In commemoration of 150 years of the SVDs, a Sesquicentennial Grotto was constructed and was solemnly blessed by Archbishop Emeritus Leo Cornelio SVD. Fr. Xavier T. SVD, Vice-Superior General, inaugurated the grotto, marking another milestone in the province’s history.
The celebrations culminated in a solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration, presided over by a newly ordained priest assigned to the India Central Province, Fr. Aanil Tandi SVD. Fr. Xavier T. SVD delivered the homily, imparting profound reflections on the significance of the milestone.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr. Paulraj SVD, Provincial Superior of INC, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and PRM Superiors for their presence and contribution to the grand occasion. The day will remain etched in the history of the India Central Province as a testimony to its unwavering commitment to faith, mission, and service.
Fr. Anthony Swamy, SVD
INE Communication Coordinator
