Bangladesh's major seminary marks its 50th anniversary

 Bangladesh Holy Spirit Major Seminary celebrated its 50th foundation anniversary in Banani, Dhaka, on April 19.

The theme of the Jubilee celebration was "Glorious 50th Years of Building a Local church."  Over 600 Catholics, including 250 priests and 9 bishops, participated in the gathering, marked by day-long celebrations. Archbishop Kevin Randall, the Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh, was also in attendance.

Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze, OMI of Dhaka, adorned the occasion as the Guest of Honor, while Bishop Emmanuel K. Rozario of Barisal and Chairman of the Episcopal Commission for Seminary, presided over the Mass.

Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, in his homily, hailed the Holy Spirit Major Seminary as a divine gift and the very heart of the Bangladesh Christ Church. He emphasized the pivotal role of the seminary in nurturing leaders for the local church and urged the students to embody the essence of the Good Shepherd.

Reflecting on the seminary's profound contributions, Bishop Rozario highlighted its role in shaping the future of the local church. He lauded the seminary for producing hundreds of priests, religious brothers, and sisters who have tirelessly served the church with zeal and dedication.

Archbishop D’Cruze, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Bangladesh, underscored the historical significance of the seminary's establishment post-liberation war. He commended its role in not only producing priests but also fostering quality religious vocations across various domains.

Worship music in multiple languages further enhanced the jubilant atmosphere, enchanting all present during the solemn Mass. Following the service, bishops and priests congregated for photographs, capturing the essence of camaraderie and celebration.

Francis Rozario, a layperson who studies in this seminary, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the seminary authority for the transformative education he received. "Although I couldn't become a priest, I became successful in my family and professional life due to the quality education imparted here," he remarked.

Holy Spirit Major Seminary was established on August 23, 1973, and was ceremonially inaugurated by His Excellency Archbishop Edward Cassidy.

Over five decades, the seminary has educated 987 students, ordained 445 priests, including 9 bishops, and enlightened 83 religious brothers, 11 sisters, and laypeople through its distinguished programs. A total of 103 professors have directly contributed to this illuminating endeavor.

As the seminary embarks on the next chapter of its journey, the spirit of gratitude and commitment pervades, inspiring all to continue building a vibrant and synod-worthy local church in Bangladesh.- Nikhil Gomes