Bro Vinod Kumar MSC.
Kelaguru: The St. Saturnine Chapel’s platinum jubilee celebration in Kelaguru was a joyous event marked by the esteemed arrival of His Excellency Most Rev Bishop Dr. T. Anthony Swamy.
The CEO of Kelaguru Tea Estate, Mr. Sanjay Mathias, and family members cordially welcomed the prelate. Eleven priests from the Balehonnur Deanery, including those who had been parish priests, attended the event with almost 500 devotees. They walked in a procession for celebrating the Eucharistic feast at the St. Saturnine Chapel. The Eucharistic liturgy was led by Bishop Most Rev. Dr. T Anthony Swamy, who was accompanied by 11 other priests from the Balehonnur Deanary, including those who had previously worked at Kelaguru Chapel.
Bishop T. Anthony Swamy emphasised the spiritual significance of the Jerusalem temple in his homily. He drew attention to the chapel’s illustrious past and fervent devotion. He urged the faithful to uphold the Church’s holiness. He highlighted the temple’s illustrious past and pushed for peaceful lives based on Christ and his teachings.
The Homily further highlighted St. Saturnine’s significant contribution and clarified his pivotal role in the Catholic Church. Bishop Anthony Swamy asked everyone in attendance to make a genuine connection with St Saturnine and make an effort to live morally upright lives in line with Catholic teachings. The festivities served as a tribute to Kelaguru St. Saturnine Chapel’s illustrious past and deep spiritual commitment.
The participation of the choir team, under the direction of Mr. Lancy Carlo, Mrs. Reena Carlo, and Mr. Roshan Cardoza, and Team, gave the celebrations of the Holy Eucharist a melodic touch. As the ceremony’s master of ceremonies, Mr. Valerian Pereira, Assistant Superintendent, emphasised the importance of the celebration after the Eucharist.
Mr. Mathias welcomed everyone and established the atmosphere for the occasion. In fact, the welcome dance performed by the students of Sacred Heart School in Hirebile made everyone in attendance grin in addition to adding a lovely and joyful flavour to the festivities. That energetic performance made a big difference in establishing a celebratory mood, improving the entire event, and encouraging happiness and camaraderie among the attendees.
The event was given an immense sense of grandeur by the presence of distinguished guests, including members of the Mathias family, local panchyat members, and revered clergy, including Rev. Fr. Lancy Pinto, Rev. Fr. Joseph Madtha, Rev. Fr. Prem, Rev. Fr. Anand, and Rev. Sr. Helen Sequeira, UFS.
Their presence enhanced the spiritual value of the event while also signifying community solidarity. Layers of cultural and spiritual richness were added to the celebrations through the seamless weaving of family links, local government representation, and the revered clergy. Their combined participation struck a deep chord, giving the occasion a greater sense of significance and greatly adding to the celebrations’ overall grandeur.
The Superintendent of the Estate, Mr. Saturnine D’Souza’s comprehensive report, chronicling the history of Kelaguru Tea Estate and the spiritual journey spanning 75 long years, intricately weaving a narrative that added profound depth to the celebrations. Besides detailing historical milestones, the account encapsulated the spiritual evolution of the community. Delving into the roots of Kelaguru St. Saturnine Chapel, the report symbolized a rich heritage, bridging the past and the present. It served as a poignant reminder of the collective journey, highlighting the chapel’s role as a spiritual anchor. D’Souza’s meticulous narration was not merely read but was handed over to Bishop T. Anthony Swamy.
That enriched the jubilant celebrations, coupled with historical and spiritual resonance.
Peter Mathias and his family took center stage, orchestrating a heartfelt felicitation for Bishop Rev Dr. T. Anthony Swamy, the revered priests, the esteemed Rev Sisters and other dignitaries. Their gesture, laden with warmth and respect, symbolised a collective acknowledgment of the spiritual leadership present. Adding sparkle to the celebrations, the 50th birthdays of distinguished figures, Rev. Fr. David Prakash and Mr. Sanjay Mathias were commemorated. These influential men, catalysts in reshaping the geographical, financial, and spiritual landscape of Kelaguru, were honoured with a birthday cake, a symbol of gratitude for their transformative impact.
Mrs. Peter Mathias and Mrs. Paul Mathias extended warm appreciation by presenting memorable mementos to retired employees of the estate, which recognised their dedicated contributions during their years of service.
This harmonious blend of recognition and celebrations beautifully enriched the jubilant atmosphere, embodying a sense of communal gratitude and shared milestones. In a heartfelt acknowledgment of dedication, previous sacristans were also honoured at St. Saturnine Chapel, underscoring their significant service. To further enrich the gathering’s understanding of Kelaguru estate’s origins, Mr. Peter Mathias eloquently delved into the legacy and contribution of Bahadur’s dream, emphasising the chapel’s spiritual prominence. Mr. Paul Mathias, expressing joy in serving the community, highlighted the seamless passage of legacy from one generation to another. He underscored the missionaries’ contributions, which shaped the growth of the people in diverse aspects of life.
As the jubilant celebrations unfolded, all participants were treated to refreshing interludes between programmes, followed by a sumptuous meal that catered to the taste buds of those attending the Platinum Jubilee. With four efficiently managed counters ensuring a smooth flow of service, the atmosphere resonated with communal spirit. A special counter was thoughtfully arranged for the priests and religious who had travelled from distant places which offered them a convenient space to partake in their meals. This thoughtful arrangement added a touch of hospitality, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude among all those who came together to commemorate the rich history and spiritual significance of Kelaguru St. Saturnine Chapel.