A Journey of Faith and Creation: Ecological Way of the Cross in Kolkata

Kolkata, 29 March, 2025 - First-year theology students at Morning Star Institute of Theology organised an Ecological Way of the Cross on 28 March 2025, linking Christ’s Passion to environmental concerns. The event urged participants to embrace ecological stewardship as a sacred duty.

The procession began at 5:30 PM from Claret Niwas, with members of neighbouring communities, including the Claretian Fathers and Brothers, SDP Sisters and Novices, and DSA Sisters and Novices, joining staff and students of Morning Star Regional Seminary. Each station along the route highlighted an ecological issue connected to Christ’s suffering, reinforcing the idea that environmental harm wounds the Creator.

Participants sang hymns focused on Christ’s Passion, creating a reflective atmosphere. A key moment was a tableau presentation of the Passion by the first-year theology students, powerfully depicting the link between sin, environmental destruction, and Christ’s suffering.

The event concluded at the MSRS chapel with a final prayer. Fr. Henry Jose, MSFS, Director of Theology, emphasised the connection between the Way of the Cross and ecological responsibility. He thanked contributors, including Fr. George Panthanmackel, MSFS, Rector of MSRS; Fr. Augustus Kujur, CMF, Superior of Claret Niwas; Fr. Sebastian Rodrigues, Liturgy Moderator; Sr. Johncy, SMI, Associate Liturgy Moderator; and all participating communities. He especially commended the first-year students for their dedication.

A closing hymn marked the end of the observance, leaving participants with a renewed commitment to faith and environmental care.

By Xavier Gurung