Ranchi Faithful Mark 132nd Death Anniversary of Fr. Constant Lievens

Ranchi, Jharkhand, November 15, 2025: The enduring call of Fr. Constant Lievens, SJ — “The fire must burn” — resonated deeply as the faithful marked his 132nd death anniversary at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Ranchi. Although his death anniversary falls on 7 November, the commemoration was observed on 9 November to ensure wider participation. The memorial was held not only across the Ranchi Archdiocese but also in the dioceses of Andamans, Gumla, Khunti and Simdega, where devotees honoured his legacy with devotion and gratitude. The annual observance aims to advance the ongoing process of his beatification and eventual canonisation; he is currently recognised as a Servant of God.

Fr. Lievens, known as the Apostle of Chotanagpur, was born on 11 April 1856 to John Lievens and Barbara. He arrived in Chotanagpur in 1885, where he encountered the harsh realities faced by the Adivasi communities, who were subjected to exploitation and reduced to bonded labour. Deeply moved, he identified himself with their struggles and wished to remain among them until his final breath. His mission lasted barely seven years before illness forced his return to Belgium, where he died on 7 November 1893 at the age of 37.

The principal celebration took place on the grounds of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Ranchi. The Archbishop of Ranchi, His Grace Vincent Aind, DD, presided over the solemn Eucharistic celebration. Concelebrants included Fr. Sylverius Chermako, Socius to the Ranchi Jesuit Province, and Fr. Anand David Xalxo, Vicar General of Ranchi, along with several clergy. Hundreds of faithful, religious sisters, seminarians, lay leaders and devotees gathered to honour Fr. Lievens’ missionary zeal and his profound contribution to the growth of Catholicism in Chotanagpur. The liturgy highlighted his life, challenges and lasting inspiration.

In his homily, Archbishop Aind reflected on the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica and linked its significance to Fr. Lievens’ tireless missionary spirit. He spoke of Lievens’ courageous stand against social injustices inflicted by landlords and moneylenders upon the Adivasi people, emphasising his commitment to justice, faith and human dignity. The Archbishop urged the faithful to embody these Christ-centred values in their daily lives, ensuring that the fire lit by Lievens continues to burn in contemporary society.

Participants felt that the commemoration was not only a tribute to Lievens’ legacy of evangelisation and his role in restoring dignity and identity to the Adivasis but also a call to renew their commitment to defending the rights of the marginalised. The celebration inspired many to reflect on service, justice and faith — keeping alive the legacy of Fr. Constant Lievens, whose guiding conviction remains: the fire must burn.

By Fr. Anupchand Minj, S.J.

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download