Youth holding a Jubilee Cross during the pilgrimage to Diphu Cathedral.
On November 12, 2025, around 300 young people from Mary Help of Christians Parish, Satgaon, West Karbi Anglong, under the Diocese of Diphu, undertook a Youth Pilgrimage to the Cathedral as part of the Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations.
The spiritual highlight of the pilgrimage was the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Jecky Sangma, Assistant Parish Priest of Amkachi Parish, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Albert Thyrniang, Parish Priest of Satgaon, Rev. Fr. Charles Sangma and Rev. Fr. Daniel Sangma (both Assistant Parish Priests of Satgaon), and Rev. Fr. Cherak Sangma, Assistant Parish Priest of Umswai, who also delivered the homily.
In his warm and engaging manner, Fr. Cherak enlightened the young faithful on the mission of Jesus in bringing salvation to humanity. He highlighted the grace-filled significance of the Jubilee Year 2025, offering catechesis on indulgences and encouraging the youth to live out the spiritual fruits of the Jubilee in their daily lives.
The pilgrims began their journey from Satgaon at 5:00 a.m. in four buses, filled with enthusiasm and joy. They arrived at the Cathedral well ahead of time, ready to commence the pilgrimage as scheduled. Sr. Silsila Marak, MSMHC, also joined the group as part of the pilgrimage.
The day’s celebration commenced with a solemn procession from the entrance of the oval lawn below the Cathedral. Leading the procession, Fr. Albert Thyrniang carried the Jubilee Cross with reverence. Upon reaching the Holy Door, Fr. Thomas Maripurath, Parish Priest of the Cathedral, welcomed the pilgrims and explained the proceedings of the day. His message was translated into Garo by Fr. Daniel Sangma. The rite of prayer and the ceremonial opening of the Holy Door followed, after which all pilgrims entered the Cathedral in a spirit of devotion.
Once assembled inside, Fr. Albert briefly reminded the faithful of the conditions necessary to obtain the Plenary Indulgence granted by the Church during the Jubilee Year.
A period of Eucharistic Adoration, animated by the youth leaders, allowed the pilgrims to encounter the Lord in prayer and reconciliation. During this time, confessions were made available, with Fr. Vivek Lakra, Assistant Principal of Don Bosco College, Diphu, joining the other priests in administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The pilgrimage was well-coordinated under the leadership of Fr. Daniel Sangma, YS, with the support of the other priests and the active involvement of the ICYM leaders. Their dedication contributed greatly to the smooth and prayerful unfolding of this final parish pilgrimage to the Cathedral during the Jubilee Year.
It is worth recalling that earlier in the year, the men and women of Satgaon Parish had separately organized pilgrimages on March 27 and September 12, marking the parish’s full participation in this Jubilee Year of Hope.
News Courtesy: Fr Albert Thyrniang SDB
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