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CELEBRATING NEW BEGINNING
The Blessing of the New Administrative Block of
St. Joseph of Annecy Bhubaneswar Provincialate.
On October 6, 2024, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy in Bhubaneswar Province embarked on an inspiring new chapter, culminating in the blessing of our new Administrative Block. This momentous event was not just the inauguration of a functional space, but the beginning of a vibrant home infused with love, light, and life.
The early morning sun cast a warm glow over the Provincial House as sisters from across the province gathered eagerly, joined by a distinguished guest, Most Rev. Archbishop John Barwa SVD of the Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Archdiocese, along with other neighboring priests. The ceremony, though simple, was rich with emotion and filled with a celestial atmosphere that was felt by all in attendance. The air resonated with the spirit of prayer and the blessings bestowed upon the entire province.
In the midst of this gathering, the words of Psalm 127 echoed in the hearts of the attendees: "Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain." These powerful words served as a reminder that the sisters’ endeavors are grounded in faith, and the new Administrative Block stands as a testament to God’s enduring love and providence.
As the moment to officially open the building drew near, Sr. Leena Jacob, the provincial, took a pair of scissors in hand and, with a flourish, cut the ribbon, declaring, “May this building be a beacon of hope, a symbol of our commitment to Total and Double Union, and a sanctuary of peace for all who enter.” This proclamation underscored the deeper significance of the building, transforming it from mere bricks and mortar into a symbol of growth, unity, and unwavering devotion to the service of the Lord.
The ceremony continued with a time-honored tradition as Most Rev. John Barwa, alongside Sr. Leena and several other sisters, lit a lamp together. This act, rich with symbolism, represented the divine presence that the new building invites. The flame signified our collective hope that this space would nurture spiritual and moral values, serving as a cradle for missionary zeal and a sanctuary for all who seek guidance and solace.
As the blessing culminated, participants made their way to the chapel for a meaningful Eucharistic celebration, led by Archbishop Barwa and the priests. This sacred event offered the opportunity for all to raise their hearts in gratitude for the blessings received over the past 73 years since the foundation of the Bhubaneswar community. We reflected on the rich tapestry of history laid by those who came before us—pioneers who faced numerous challenges yet persevered with incredible faith and zeal.
Acknowledging the remarkable journey taken, we reminisced about the humble beginnings in 1951, when the Bhubaneswar community came into being amid hardships. After three decades of patience and devotion, a convent was blessed on May 12, 1983. With time, it evolved from a regional house in 2002 to a provincial house in 2006, overcoming various limitations to eventually fulfill the long-held dream of a well-equipped province office and comfortable accommodations for sisters in transit.
The ceremony touched the hearts of many, and several key figures were honored with the traditional shawl (utharium) and bouquets of flowers, marking their significant contributions during construction. As guests gathered for the agape that followed, the atmosphere was infused with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of relationship among everyone present.
As the day came to a close, the Sisters from neighboring communities, the clergy, and distinguished guests departed with hearts full of hope and rejuvenated spirits, eagerly anticipating the blessings that this new Administrative Block will undoubtedly bring. In the simple act of cutting a ribbon and lighting a lamp, we celebrated not just a building, but the essence of community, commitment, and love—the foundation upon which we will continue to build our legacy in Bhubaneswar.
Sr. Shiny Joseph SSJA