In a profound moment of reflection and celebration, St. Joseph’s Church, Baramulla marked its centenary today, commemorating 100 remarkable years of faith, compassion, and dedicated missionary service. The grand event brought together an esteemed gathering of senior cabinet minister, civil and Military leaders, religious dignitaries, and the local community, all united in honoring a legacy that has shaped the region for a century.
From Humble Beginnings to a Regional Pillar
The celebration took place at the St. Joseph’s Campus, honoring the visionary missionaries who established the church exactly one hundred years ago. What began as a modest initiative to serve a small minority community has evolved into a cornerstone of society. Today, the institution boasts a prominent educational wing with over 70 classrooms educating more than 4,000 students, complemented by a hospital that continues to provide vital care and healing to thousands in the valley.
A Solemn Eucharistic Celebration
The centenary began at 10:30 a.m. with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration, marking a century of spiritual legacy. The service was presided over by Archbishop Anil Couto, Archbishop of Delhi, who led the faithful in a moving thanksgiving for the Church’s enduring mission.
The Archbishop was accompanied by a distinguished circle of clergy, including,
Bishop Ivan Albert Perreira (BishopofJammu-Srinagar)
Bishop Jose (Auxiliary Bishop of Faridabad)
Bishop Ignatius (Emeritus Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh)
Bishop Deepak (Auxiliary Bishop of Delhi)
Unity, Devotion, and Cultural Tribute
The atmosphere was marked by deep devotion as clergy and the community traveled from across the State and another parts of country to participate. Following the religious service, the program opened with a reverent rendition of the National Anthem and a warm welcome address by Rev. Fr. Soosai Rajan, Parish Priest and Vice Principal of St Joseph School Baramulla.
The highlights of the afternoon included a captivating dance-drama performed by students. The performance vividly depicted the missionaries’ inspiring journey from their humble, challenging beginnings to a century of unwavering humanitarian commitment.
Distinguished Presence and Inspiring Words
The event was graced by high-ranking officials who spoke on the impact of the institution, Chief Guest, Javid Ahmad Dar, Cabinet Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Election Departments.
Guest of Honour, Major General Manoj Joshi, General Officer Commanding, 19 Infantry Division, Chinar Corps, Indian Army.
The gathering also saw attendance from key local leaders, including Mr. Javed Hassan Beigh (MLA Baramulla), Mr. Irfan Hafiz Lone (MLA Wagoora-Kreeri), and senior security officials including Mr. Maqsood-ul-Zaman (DIG Police North Kashmir) and Mr. Gurvinderpal Singh (SSP Baramulla), alongside Deputy Commissioner Mr. Syed Fakhrudin Hamid.
Looking Ahead with Hope
The celebration concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Rt. Rev. Bishop Ivan Albert Perreira.
The event ended on a heartfelt note of optimism, affirming that the core values of faith, compassion, and excellence instilled over the last 100 years will continue to guide and inspire future generations of Baramulla.
