A significant number of priests and religious from the Diocese of Nashik gathered for the Advent Recollection and Christmas Celebration on Thursday, December 19, 2024, joined by the Shepherd of the Diocese, Rev. Bishop Barthol Barretto. The Bishop extended a warm welcome to the assembly present in the Cathedral of St Anne. Thereafter, Fr Andrew Jadhav, Fr Sanjay Pathare and Fr Peter D’Souza of Catholic Church, Tilaknagar, led the congregation into a meaningful Adoration Service before the Blessed Sacrament. As the assembly continued in silent prayer and adoration, nine priests from the Diocese were available to administer the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Bishop Emeritus Lourdes Daniel imparted the Eucharistic blessing before the Blessed Sacrament was reverently closed.
In the spirit of Synodality, Bishop Barthol invited Sr Anita Nazareth RSCJ to share an Advent message with the gathering. Sr Anita spoke with simplicity and grace, offering a message of hope in Christ and encouraging each of us to be beacons of hope for those in need—whether the young, the elderly, the sick, the sorrowful, or the destitute. The Bishop expressed heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to Sr Anita for her inspiring words. Before concluding this first part of the day's program, Bp Barthol addressed the gathering and shared some important points and reflections with all present.
The prayer and reconciliation session was followed by a fellowship gathering in the beautifully arranged open space of Bishop’s House. The Salesian Brothers of Divya Daan Philosophate organized a series of exciting Christmas games and carol singing, with an overwhelming participation from all present. Bishop Barthol expressed his sincere gratitude to all who contributed to make this occasion such a pleasant and enjoyable one. The day concluded with a shared meal, appreciated by all. It was truly a time of grace, fellowship, and the sharing of Christmas hope and joy among the priests and religious of the Diocese, with our Shepherd, Bishop Barthol.
Sr Supriya Noronha FMA