The Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (SS.CC.) joyfully and gratefully celebrated its Golden Jubilee on June 28, marking 50 years of fruitful presence and mission in India. This significant occasion also coincides with the 225th anniversary of the congregation's global foundation.
The celebration day, under the theme "Journeying with God towards a Blessed Future," began with a solemn Eucharistic thanksgiving. The Mass was presided over by John Barwa SVD, Archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, at St. Vincent's Pro-Cathedral in Bhubaneswar. The Superior General, Alberto Toutin, and the Regional Superior were also present.
During the ceremony, the rich history of the congregation, founded in France in 1800 by Father Coudrin and Henriette Aymer de la Chevalerie, was highlighted. A commemorative video shown during the event reviewed the milestones, challenges, and growth of the community since their arrival in India in 1975. A moving moment was the symbolic lighting of lamps, each representing a decade of their spiritual journey and unwavering commitment to Christ.
The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a congratulatory ceremony and a fraternal meal at St. Joseph's School Hall, also in Bhubaneswar. During this gathering, deep gratitude was expressed to the missionaries who have dedicated their lives to this service, including Fathers William F. Petrie, Michael Shanahan, Columban Crotty, Richard McNally, Felipe F. Lazcano, Patrick Crowley, John Roche, Jan Forma, and Brothers James Rukavina and David Reid.
Fr. Ajith Kumar Antony Dass, Regional Superior of the India Region, thanked all those present and those who have supported the mission of the Sacred Hearts over the years, reaffirming the Congregation's commitment to continue its spiritual and social work in the country.
Link to the video: https://goo.su/T0Q6T
06/29/2025