“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18).
In a profound spirit of gratitude and joy, the Rosarian family of Devamatha Ashram in Pariyaram, Kannur, Kerala, gathered to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Priesthood of their beloved confrere, Rev. Fr. Pius Joseph Cheeniveetil CR, on the 22nd of October 2024 at 11 am. This significant occasion marked 25 years of Fr. Pius’s devoted service to the Church and his community as a priest, embodying the spirit of compassion, dedication simplicity and humility.
The Jubilee Mass and celebrations were graced by the presence of Very Rev. Fr. Justin Raj CR, the Prior General, who preached the homily highlighted on qualities of Priests like Love, humility, holiness to serve the people of God. A Rosarian Priest is a Praying Priest can do much to the Church. Fathers and brothers from various Rosarian communities across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka were in attendance, making the occasion even more special with their prayers and support.
Very Rev. Fr. Francis Jeyaseelan CR, the Regional Superior of Sri Lanka, and Rev. Fr. Mariasuthan CR, who brought their warm wishes and spiritual solidarity to the celebration. The celebration was further blessed by the presence of Fr. Pius’s Brother Sebastian John and his cousin Mathew, adding a personal touch to the joyous occasion.
The Rosarian community recognized the invaluable contributions of Fr. Pius over his 25 years of priestly service, through his humble, silent, dedicated service to the Congregation as Prior, Sub-prior, Formator and Spiritual guide to many. The Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee was not just a time of celebration but also one of deep reflection on the grace of priesthood and the unwavering faith of Fr. Pius. His life of service, rooted in the spirit of the Rosarian mission, has left an indelible mark on those he has ministered to over the years. The Rosarian community, along with all the attendees, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to God for the gift of Fr. Pius’ priesthood. They lifted their prayers for his continued service and strength, as he embarks on the next phase of his ministry with the same passion and dedication that has defined his past 25 years.
The Silver Jubilee Celebration was meticulously arranged under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Manoj Mathew CR, the Prior of Devamatha Ashram, along with the active participation of the Fathers and Brothers from the Devamatha Community. In keeping with the Rosarian tradition, the event was an intimate family celebration, highlighting the close-knit bond among the Rosarians and their shared commitment to the priesthood.
The event also reaffirmed the unity and bond of the Rosarian family, strengthened by the presence and prayers of those who gathered in love and support. The celebration concluded with a festive gathering, filled with warmth and fellowship, as the Rosarian family and the guests shared in the joy of this milestone, further strengthening their bond of unity and faith. Very Rev. Fr. A.F. Jeyaseelan CR gave a felicitation to the Jubilarian, Very Rev. Fr. Prior General too thanked and appreciated everyone with vote of Thanks. The Jubilee celebration came to a happy end.
