by Fr Mayank Parmar for BIS Mumbai

Sahayak Mata Parish in Kawant organized a grand Mahabhajan to commemorate the Feast of the Holy Family and inaugurate the Jubilee Year 2025, declared by Pope Francis as the "Year of Hope." This remarkable event brought together faithful from various Christian denominations in the Chhota Udepur district, located on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The district is home to a vibrant Christian community comprising diverse denominations united by their shared mission to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Christmas, a season of joy and spiritual enrichment, served as a precursor to this event. The carolers from Sahayak Mata Parish traveled across denominations, sharing the message of Christ’s birth and spreading festive cheer. Their efforts were warmly received, fostering unity and goodwill among the Christian community.

The Mahabhajan, which served as the culmination of these Christmas celebrations, was a grand expression of unity and hope, aligning with the Jubilee Year 2025. The event began with a solemn lamp-lighting ceremony by Fr. Mayank Parmar, the Parish Priest of Sahayak Mata Parish; Br. Manikam, Administrator of Don Bosco, Chhota Udepur; Fr. Cedric Sankul, Principal of Don Bosco High School, Chhota Udepur; Sr. Enone Pinto, Administrator of Nikol Bhavan, Kawant; and various pastors and sevaks representing different denominations.

Fr. Mayank Parmar delivered a powerful message from the Gospel of John, emphasizing that Jesus is the door through which all believers are invited to enter. He highlighted the significance of the Jubilee Year as a time to rekindle hope and foster collaboration among Christian denominations in their mission to spread the Word of God, especially in the tribal areas where the challenges are many. Fr. Parmar reminded everyone that through Jesus, they have been graced with strength and resilience to carry forward their shared mission of building God’s Kingdom.

The event witnessed the participation of 16 mandalis, with over 500 faithful from the Chhota Udepur district attending. Each mandali presented soulful bhajans, angelic songs, and devotional dances, transforming the evening into a divine celebration. The atmosphere was filled with spiritual fervour, as attendees rejoiced in the shared expression of faith.

The program, which began at 6:00 PM, continued until 11:00 PM and concluded with a delicious meal served to all attendees. Remarkably, despite preparations for only 300 people, the food sufficed for over 500, a miracle many attributed to the blessings of Jesus.

Sevak Bhil Balsing from Ambadunagar, deeply moved by the event, shared, “In my 30 years of experience, I have never seen all denominations come together like this. It is truly wonderful to witness so many believers united in one place.”

Pastor Mathur from Chhota Udepur echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are delighted to collaborate with our fellow brothers in Christ. This gathering inspires hope, and we look forward to more such events.”

Mr. Ranchod Rathwa, a past pupil of Don Bosco, expressed his amazement at the large gathering: “I never realized so many Christians lived in this region. It’s incredible to be part of such a strong and united community.”