March 20, 2013 : CBCI together with the Archdiocese of Delhi organized a thanksgiving Mass on the occasion of the solemn inauguration of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Francis at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Delhi on March 19, 2013. The day is also the Solemnity of St. Joseph who is Patron of the Church. His Excellency Archbishop Most Rev. Salvatore Pennacchio, Apostolic Nuncio in India concelebrated Holy Mass with Most Rev. Albert D’Souza, Secretary General Catholic Bishops’ Conference India and Archbishop of Agra; Most Rev. Anil J. T. Couto, Archbishop of Delhi; Archbishop Most Rev. Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, Bishop of Faridabad; Most Rev. Vincent Concessao, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Delhi; Most Rev. Jacob Mar Barnabas, Apostolic Visitator of Malankara Catholic Church; Most Rev. Franco Mulakkal, Auxiliary bishop of Delhi. Hundred priests, religious as well as delegates of various embassies, dignitaries’ from the government were joined for the thanksgiving Mass. Bishop Franco welcomed everyone. Archbishop Anil preached the Homily. He took extracts from Pope Francis homily, which was really inspiring.
After the mass short felicitation program was held. Various dignitaries read out the messages supporting Pope Francis. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chinnayyan, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI led the program. Apostolic Nuncio thanked everyone for their presence. From the CBCI Fr. Dominic Dabreio, PRO & Spokesperson; Fr. Charles, Justice, Peace and development Office, Fr. Jaison, from Labour office, Sr. Helen from Women Office, Fr. Stany Thirky from ST Office and Fr. Franklin from CBCI/ICYM - Youth Office as well Caritas India Director Fr. Freddy, Asst. Director Fr. Paul Munjelly, Administrator Fr. Chinnappa were present with their staff. It was a meaningful occasion to thank God for the gift of Pope Francis.
