On 10th April 2025, the Diocese of Gulbarga witnessed a profound spiritual gathering at the Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Kalaburagi, as all the priests of the diocese came together in unity as Unum Presbyterium for the Chrism Mass and Day of Recollection.
The day began with a recollection talk by Fr. Francis, C.Ss.R., the resource person for the event. His inspiring session, attended by priests and religious sisters, set the spiritual tone for the day. Following the talk, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions were held, helping all participants prepare their hearts for the Holy Week and the Easter Triduum.
Before the celebration of the Chrism Mass, Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, blessed the newly constructed Infant Jesus Grotto and the newly erected flagpole in the cathedral premises. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr. M.Y Patil, MLA of Afzalpur , who attended as the Chief Guest.
The solemn Chrism Mass was celebrated by the Bishop along with his newly appointed Vicar General, Fr. Santhosh Bapu, and the priests of the diocese. In his homily, Bishop Robert reflected deeply on the theme of temptations faced in priestly life, highlighting three key areas:
- Temptation of Compromise – in prayer, talents, money, and other areas of life.
- Temptation of Surrogacy – avoiding pain and responsibility while shifting burdens onto others.
- Temptation of Discouragement – losing heart in ministry and vocation. The Bishop called upon the priests to renew their priestly commitment with zeal and joy. This was followed by the procession of olive oil containers and the blessing and consecration of the Holy Oils: – The Oil of the Sick was blessed after the homily. – After Communion, the Oil of Catechumens and the Sacred Chrism were solemnly blessed in the presence of all the priests.
Fr. Joseph Praveen, the Parish Priest of the Cathedral, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the priests, sisters, and lay faithful who contributed to the meaningful celebration. A special welcome was extended to Fr. Santhosh Bapu, the newly appointed Vicar General of the Diocese. The day concluded with a sense of renewed fraternity, mission, and hope as the diocese prepares to enter into the mysteries of Holy Week and Easter
