Aarogyamata Church in Wadali, Maharashtra, celebrated Silver Jubilee

Wadali, Maharashtra, December 27, 2025 — The faithful of Aarogyamata Church, Wadali, celebrated the Silver Jubilee of the church on December 18, marking 25 years of pastoral growth and faith journey within the Diocese of Amravati. Clergy, religious, and lay faithful joined the celebrations, reflecting the steady development of the Catholic community in the area.

The foundations of the Church’s presence in Wadali date back to 1986, when Bishop Joseph Rosario entrusted the Sisters of the Holy Cross of Chavnod with establishing a Catholic mission. Despite the small Catholic population, the sisters served the faithful and carried out social outreach, particularly among the underprivileged Pardi community.

As the community expanded, a dedicated place of worship was established in 2000 with the erection of a Mass Centre under the guidance of Fr. Jose Kottanattu, then Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Amravati. Blessed by Edwin Colaco, the Mass Centre became the focal point of pastoral and social activities, with diocesan clergy entrusted with its pastoral care. The arrival of the Indian Missionary Society Fathers in 2007 further supported pastoral and educational initiatives in the area.

In 2013, the Mass Centre was elevated to the status of a quasi-parish by the then Bishop of Amravati, Elias Gonsalves. Fr. Onil Gonçalves was appointed as the first Priest-in-Charge, guiding the community through a period of consolidation, catechetical formation, and outreach to the marginalised.

The Silver Jubilee celebration marked a significant milestone when Bishop Malcolm Sequeira announced the elevation of Aarogyamata Church, Wadali, to a full-fledged parish during the solemn Eucharistic celebration. The announcement recognised the faith, commitment, and ecclesial maturity of the local community. Former priests and religious who had served the church were felicitated on the occasion.

Currently, the parish is under the pastoral leadership of Fr. Arokiasamy, Priest-in-Charge, assisted by Fr. Rajesh Samad IMS, Fr. Anuj Kujur IMS, and the Sisters of the Holy Cross of Chavnod. The new parish status is expected to strengthen sacramental life, pastoral initiatives, and social outreach, enabling Aarogyamata Church to continue its mission of faith and service in Wadali.

The Silver Jubilee celebrations highlighted the journey of the church from a modest Mass Centre to a recognised parish, marking an important chapter in the life of the Diocese of Amravati.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download