Norbertine Community in India Celebrates Feast of St. Norbert with Solemn Mass at Jabalpur Abbey

Jabalpur, 7 June 2025: The Norbertine community in India celebrated the Feast of St. Norbert with solemnity and joy on Thursday at St. Norbert Abbey in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The event, held to honour St. Norbert of Xanten, the founder of the Norbertine Order, brought together priests, religious, and lay faithful from across the region for a Eucharistic celebration and festivities.

The solemn Holy Mass for the day was presided over by Rt. Rev. Abbot Arul Amalraj, O.Praem., the Abbot of St. Norbert Abbey. Newly ordained priests of the Norbertine Order concelebrated the Eucharist and were honoured at the conclusion of the liturgy for their commitment to the Church's mission.

During the celebration, St. Norbert, who founded the Canons Regular of Prémontré—commonly known as the Norbertines during the 12th century—was fondly remembered for his contribution to introducing vital reforms in the Church. The Norbertine Fathers in India trace their spiritual and communal roots to this tradition. Their mother abbey in Jabalpur is notably the only Norbertine abbey in the entire country.

The celebration was a deeply meaningful occasion, embodying the spirit of community, prayer, and service, values that lie at the heart of Norbertine life. It marked yet another significant milestone in the rich and vibrant legacy of the Order in India.

By Fr. Thomas Antony,

Media and Communication Office, Jabalpur Diocese