The Golden Jubilee of Priestly Ordination of Most Rev. Dr. Gerald D'Almeida, Bishop Emeritus of Jabalpur Diocese, Madhya Pradesh, was celebrated with great joy and reverence on Tuesday, 31st December 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Church, Udyavara.
The celebration commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass at 10:30 a.m., concelebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, along with Rev. Dr. Roshan D’Souza, Chancellor and Judicial Vicar of Udupi Diocese; Rev. Fr. Anil D’Souza, Parish Priest of Udyavara Church; Rev. Fr. Roque D’Souza, Parish Priest of Mount Rosary Church; Rev. Fr. Reginal Pinto, Director of Sampada; Rev. Fr. Stephan Rodrigues, Assistant Priest of Udyavara Church; and other esteemed priests. The Mass was attended by a large gathering of family members, relatives, and well-wishers who came together to honor Bishop D'Almeida's remarkable 50 years of dedicated service in the priesthood.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation program and lunch were held at St. Francis Xavier Sabha Bhavan. The program was a heartfelt tribute to Bishop D'Almeida's unwavering commitment to his vocation, his pastoral care, and his significant contributions to the Church over the decades. Speeches, messages, and tokens of appreciation highlighted his exemplary journey in serving God and His people.
The event was filled with gratitude, camaraderie, and joy as attendees celebrated this milestone in Bishop D'Almeida's life. The day concluded with a spirit of thanksgiving and blessings, as everyone extended their best wishes to him and warmly welcomed the New Year 2025.
This momentous occasion was a testament to Bishop D'Almeida's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the faithful.