Spaichingen, Germany: The Claretian Missionaries of the Province of Deutschland celebrated a day of profound significance and joy on 26th May 2024, the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, by celebrating three special events: the 175th anniversary of the congregation’s foundation, the centenary of the Claretian presence in Germany, and the Diaconate Ordination of Student Vinoraj Arulnesan, CMF.

The Holy Eucharist, a centerpiece of the celebrations, was presided over by His Lordship Gerhard Schneider, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart. In his homily, Bishop Schneider expressed deep gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to the Claretian Missionaries. He praised their invaluable missionary activities within the diocese and throughout Germany, urging them to continue spreading the Joy of the Gospel through both words and actions.

Bishop Schneider also addressed the candidate for diaconate ordination, encouraging Student Vinoraj Arulnesan, CMF, to embrace his new role with joy and courage. He emphasized the importance of proclaiming the treasures of the Catholic faith through both words and deeds, wherever his missionary journey may lead him.

The event was graced by the presence of several Claretians, including the Superior General, Fr. Matthew Vattamattam, CMF, and His Eminence Aquilino Cardinal Bocos, CMF. Besides, Provincial Superiors from the Santiago, Poland, Bangalore, and St. Thomas Provinces, as well as the Delegate Superior of the St. Joseph Vaz Independent Delegation from Sri Lanka and the Vicar of the Sanctus Paulus Province, honored the occasion with their presence.

A diverse assembly of religious men and women, priests, friends, benefactors, and collaborators of the Claretian Missionaries in Germany also gathered to witness and celebrate these events.

Source: Fr. Evans Iregi Njiraini CMF, Secretary, Province of Deutschland.