Jabalpur Diocese Observes Christian Unity Octave

Jabalpur, February 1, 2025 – The Madhya Pradesh Council of Churches (MPCC) and the Jabalpur Diocesan Ecumenical Council, in collaboration with various Christian denominations, organized the Christian Unity Octave in Jabalpur from January 18 to January 25, 2025. This eight-day event, aimed at fostering unity among Christians, was held under the theme "Do You Believe This?" (John 11:26). The event was marked by a series of prayer meetings held across multiple churches in Jabalpur, bringing together Christians from different communities for prayer and reflection.

Most. Rev. Bishop Valan Arasu, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Jabalpur, encouraged all Christians to participate in the event, highlighting how such initiatives bring Christians closer in faith and fellowship.

The event commenced on January 18 with an inaugural function at Christ Church CNI Cathedral, Jabalpur. During the function, Rev. Bishop Ajay Umesh James, the CNI Bishop of Jabalpur, delivered an uplifting sermon on "The Fatherhood and Care of God Who Rules the Universe."

Over the course of the eight days of the event, various churches in Jabalpur hosted prayer meetings, inviting participation from priests, pastors, religious leaders, and laity from diverse Christian denominations. These meetings provided a meaningful platform for individuals to come together, pray, and reflect on their shared beliefs.

Esteemed preachers, including Rev. Bishop M.A. Daniel from the Methodist Church, Dr. Fr. Ben Anton from St. Aloysius College, Rev. Shyam Babu from the Presbyterian Church, Rev. Bruce from CNI Church, Rev. Daniel Nath from the Bible Society, Rev. Benny Mathal from the Mar Thoma Church and Rev. Fr. George T, Catholic Diocese of Jabalpur led daily reflections during meetings on the eight days of the event. Their powerful messages further reinforced the event's theme of unity in Christ, deepening the understanding and fellowship among attendees.

The prayer week concluded with a valedictory function on January 25 at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. During this function, Fr. Walter Xalxa, convener of the Jabalpur Diocesan Ecumenical Council, voiced hopes for future programs of this nature to continue fostering unity within the Christian community of Jabalpur.

The eight-day event was met with widespread appreciation from various Christian communities, who hailed it as a significant step toward enhancing interdenominational relationships in Jabalpur.

By Fr. Thomas Antony O.Praem,

Media & Communications Coordinator, Diocese of Jabalpur.