Shillong, June 29: The Catholic Church on Monday celebrated the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, commemorating the martyrdom of the two apostles who laid the foundation of the early Church. The occasion also marked the Platinum Jubilee (75 years) of the presence and mission of the Daughters of St. Paul (DSP) in India.
In the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong, the Platinum Jubilee was observed with a solemn Holy Mass at Mary Our Help of Christians Cathedral in Laitumkhrah. The Eucharistic celebration was led by Victor Lyngdoh and concelebrated by priests of the Archdiocese in the presence of religious sisters, faithful and well-wishers.
The Daughters of St. Paul, under the leadership of Sr. Shalini Rose Joseph, currently have eight sisters serving in Shillong. Their apostolate focuses on proclaiming the Gospel through books, publications, digital media and other modern means of communication. Their media centre is located near Laitumkhrah Police Point.
In his homily, Archbishop Victor reflected on the lives of Saints Peter and Paul, describing them as the two great pillars of the Church whose witness continues to inspire Christians to remain steadfast in faith and courageous in mission.
Referring to the Platinum Jubilee, the Archbishop thanked God for His faithfulness throughout the past 75 years of the Daughters of St. Paul’s ministry in India. He said the congregation has touched countless lives through evangelisation, education, catechesis, publications and digital media, faithfully bringing Christ’s message to society.
Drawing inspiration from the Jubilee theme, “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:16), Archbishop Victor reminded the faithful that evangelisation is not merely an option but the mission of every baptised Christian. He urged them to become living witnesses of Christ in their families, workplaces and communities.
He also encouraged the sisters to continue embracing new digital frontiers while remaining deeply rooted in prayer, faith and joyful service. At a time when misinformation and hatred spread rapidly through modern media, he said, the Church needs communicators who proclaim truth, hope and Gospel values.
Reflecting on the Scripture readings for the feast, the Archbishop highlighted Peter’s unwavering faith, Paul’s missionary zeal and the importance of completing one’s earthly journey with fidelity. He called on the faithful to remain committed to Christ despite trials, trusting that God’s grace is stronger than every obstacle.
Concluding the celebration, Archbishop Victor prayed that the Daughters of St. Paul would continue their mission with renewed zeal and that all Christians would be inspired by the example of Saints Peter and Paul to proclaim the Gospel with courage, joy and unwavering fidelity.
