MSMHC Generalate, Hatigaon hosted the golden and silver jubilee celebration of 18 Sisters on 27 August. Welcoming the august assembly gathered for the solemn Eucharistic celebration of the day, Sr. Philomena Mathew, the Superior General said, “During this year of mercy, we want to sing the mercies of the Lord for the wonders that the Lord has accomplished in life of our three golden and fifteen silver Jubilarians; we want to thank the Almighty for the inestimable gift of their life and precious religious vocation which was indeed a journey with God.” Recounting the blessings of God over the past years, she stated, “It is a fitting moment to acknowledge in the name of the Church and the Congregation, their generous contribution, selfless sacrifices, inspiring life and profound faith which made them instruments of God’s unconditional mercy and love to thousands …”
The chief celebrant, Archbishop John Moolachira of Guwahati Archdiocese began the solemn celebration of the Eucharist with a note of appreciation to the Jubilarians for their life of commitment through which they added to the life and holiness of the Church. In his homily, quoting Prophet Isaiah (61: 10), he called on the Jubilarians to become aware of God’s special love and care. Speaking about the significance of God’s call he said, “Our call is to delve deeper into the relationship and savour the fact that the Lord delights in us.” “As a fruit of this love relationship we go out to serve Christ in His people,” he added.
The beautifully decked hall, angelic choir and special prayers made the Eucharistic celebration meaningful and awe-inspiring. Followed by the Holy Mass was the time for special greeting, felicitation, cutting of Jubilee cake and sumptuous meal.
The day concluded with an hour-long cultural programme jointly hosted by the Novices and the students of Little Flower School, which was attended by the Jubilarians, their friends and relatives. The celebration came to a close with the message from the Superior General, Sr. Philomena Mathew. In her brief message, she exhorted the Jubilarians to continue their fervour in serving the Lord in His people. She wished God’s blessings upon their years ahead and on all their endeavours.
The celebrations had begun on 25 August with the arrival of the Jubilarians, wherein the community of Hatigaon offered them a colourful welcome. Sr. Philomena Mathew, the Superior General along with Council members welcomed each of them with ‘Aronai’ and flowers. The golden Jubilarians were specially honoured with ‘Jhappi’. They were then solemnly led to the main porch of the Convent as the Little Flower School (LFS) band marched forward with joyful music and cheer. Followed by it was the welcome words by the Superior General and a short entertainment programme by the Novices and the Students of LFS. The community had also arranged a grand dinner and it was specially served by the Superior General, members of General Council and community.
The occasion of coming together did not remain in mere meeting and parting but it gave ample time to know about the Jubilarians. The hour-long presentation by Sr. Shiji James on the eve of the Jubilee day familiarised to all the life, call and mission of each one. Followed by it was a prayer service organised by Sr. Ancilla Jose, the Economer General and her team to thank God and pray for the jubilarians.