Colloquium on “Pilgrims of Hope on the Synodal Journey” Held in Agartala

Agartala, August 7, 2025 — St. Joseph’s Hall in Agartala hosted a one-day colloquium titled “Pilgrims of Hope on the Synodal Journey” on 5 August 2025. Organised in preparation for the Ordinary Jubilee Year 2025 and World Mission Sunday, the event gathered priests, religious, and lay leaders for a day dedicated to reflection and spiritual renewal.

The programme commenced with a prayer led by Fr. Bala Showry, setting a reverent tone for the day. Fr. Ivan D’Silva extended a warm welcome to all participants, paving the way for the keynote speaker, Fr. Antony Samy—National Coordinator for Jubilee 2025 and Associate Secretary General of the Pontifical Mission Organizations—who delivered two significant sessions.

Jubilee 2025: A Call to Hope and Renewal

Fr. Antony’s first presentation focused on the Jubilee Year’s central theme, “Spes Non Confundit” (Hope Does Not Disappoint). He described the Jubilee as a sacred time for spiritual renewal, rooted in divine love and fortified by hope. He outlined the key practices of the Jubilee observance, which include church pilgrimages, crossing through Holy Doors, receiving the sacraments, and performing acts of charity. He also emphasised the importance of unity, peace, and a renewed commitment to the poor—principles that resonate with the Church’s ongoing synodal journey.

Mission Sunday 2025: Becoming Missionaries of Hope

In his second session, Fr. Antony unpacked the Pope’s Message for World Mission Sunday, which will be observed on 19 October 2025 under the theme “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples.” He encouraged all baptised individuals to embrace their missionary identity by becoming carriers of Christ’s hope in a world longing for healing and reconciliation. He underscored the significance of prayer, active participation, and tangible support for the Church’s mission, especially in emerging and challenged regions.

Words of Encouragement from the Bishop

Bishop Lumen Monteiro, CSC, DD, was present at the event and addressed the assembly, urging attendees to engage earnestly with both the Jubilee and the synodal process. He called on all present to become visible signs of hope within their respective communities.

The colloquium concluded with the recitation of the Angelus and a shared lunch, leaving participants spiritually enriched and motivated to walk forward as pilgrims and missionaries of hope.

By Fr. Bala Showry

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