Archbishop John Barwa Hails Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy as Beacons of Compassion

Bhubaneswar, October 9, 2025 – "The Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy have been a beacon of compassion and transformation in Odisha and beyond," said Archbishop John Barwa, SVD, of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar, in his homily during the Terquasquicentennial Jubilee celebration of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Annecy, Bhubaneswar Province.

In his homily, Archbishop Barwa paid tribute to the Sisters’ enduring witness to Christ’s love through their apostolic works.

 He highlighted their humble service in planting seeds of love, faith, and justice among the poor and marginalised, framing the Jubilee as a call to rekindle the flame of mission. 

He encouraged the Sisters to continue radiating Christ’s love through service, education, and healing, as over 2,000 participants, including clergy, religious, alumni, and laity, joined the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration enriched by traditional dance, ārati, and a Bible procession.

The event featured various concelebrants, reflecting the strong partnership with the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales. Sisters from Lyons, Annecy, and Chambéry Congregations joined in thanksgiving, embodying their founder’s vision of “Total Double Union” with God and neighbour. 

A documentary film and Jubilee Souvenir were premiered, culminating in a festive reflection on the Congregation’s charism of “unioning love,” inspiring continued service across India and beyond.

By Sr. Shiny Joseph SSJA

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