The Rector of St. Bernard Seminary Hostel, his co-formators, seminarians, and representatives of various Catholic institutions within the Emene Denary of the Diocese of Enugu gathered at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Emene, to celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope proclaimed by Pope Leo on the 18th of October, 2025. The gathering aimed at obtaining the Plenary Indulgence and renewing the faithful’s trust in God’s mercy and hope.

The celebration began with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, led by Very Rev. Fr. Victor Eze, followed by the recitation of Psalm 51, the Sacrament of Confession, and 20 decades of the Holy Rosary. Prayer intentions included growth in holiness, the triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, peace and good governance in Nigeria, economic stability, God’s mercy on victims of violence, release of captives, forgiveness for past injustices, and individual and family intentions.

The event climaxed with the Holy Mass, presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Liberatus Isife, assisted by Rev. Fr. Lazarus Alor and Rev. Fr. Michael Ikechukwu Ngwu. In his homily, Very Rev. Fr. Callistus Aneke encouraged the faithful never to lose heart despite present economic and social challenges, but to remain steadfast as agents of hope in their communities. He emphasized that:

“Hope is not a distant dream; it is a living reality.”

The celebration concluded with a joyful moment as cakes brought by various parishes were cut in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday, celebrated on September 8th. This gesture symbolized unity, joy, and devotion to the Mother of Hope.

The day ended with renewed faith and a deepened commitment to live out the message of the Jubilee Year of Hope trusting in God’s promises and spreading His light in the world.