CRI Shillong Celebrates the Jubilee Year of Consecrated Life with "Symphony of Hope"

Shillong, February 15, 2025 – The CRI Shillong unit celebrated the Jubilee Year of Consecrated Life with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Cathedral, followed by the Symphony of Hope concert at Biachi Hall. Over 500 consecrated men and women from various congregations attended the event, making it a significant gathering of religious life in the region.  

Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of Shillong presided over the Eucharistic celebration, accompanied by the VSDB (The Visitation Sisters of Don Bosco) postulants’ choir. The Symphony of Hope concert showcased fourteen captivating performances focused on the themes of Pilgrims of Hope, Journeying Together, and Care for Our Common Home. Young religious artists displayed remarkable musical talent, making the evening both uplifting and spiritually enriching.  

A Call to Be Pilgrims of Peace  

In his address, CRI Shillong President Br. Sunil Britto CFC explained the theme, stating, “For the whole Church, the theme is simply ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ but the Dicastery for Consecrated Life has added ‘on the Path to Peace’ for us, consecrated persons.”  

Reflecting on global and local conflicts, he asked, “How, then, are we as consecrated people called to be channels of peace?” His words resonated with the audience, highlighting the need for religious communities to foster peace in troubled regions like Ukraine, Gaza, and Manipur.  

During his homily, Archbishop Lyngdoh emphasised the dynamic role of consecrated men and women in the Church. “Their contributions in education, health, social work, and pastoral ministries make them true Pilgrims of Hope,” he said.  

Religious Leaders Reflect on the Celebration  

Sr. Baiahunlang Nongkhlaw, Provincial of the RNDM Sisters, described the event as deeply spiritual. “Processing with lit candles toward the Cathedral’s altar felt like a true entry into the house of our beloved God, who has called us to be with Him,” she shared.  

Mother Mabel Dkhar, Superior General of the VSDB Sisters, praised the event’s organization. “Every performance was creative and aligned with the Jubilee theme and care for Mother Earth. Bringing the religious together to celebrate this milestone was truly meaningful,” she said.  

Living the Vision of Synodality

The entire event was a clear and powerful witness to the Church’s vision of synodality—a celebration of communion, collaboration, and shared creativity. It demonstrated how CRI Shillong is vibrantly embracing this vision in a transformative way, journeying together as Pilgrims of Hope on the Path to Peace.

By Br. Sunil Britto