REDISCOVER THE PRECIOUSNESS OF THE VOCATION AS ST. THOMAS DID | 03-07-2025
“REDISCOVER THE PRECIOUSNESS OF THE VOCATION AS
ST. THOMAS DID”-Rt. Rev. Dr Antony Valunkal
Rt. Rev. Dr. Antony Valunkal, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Verapoly, who
was the chief guest of Dukhrana emphasized the importance of a priest’s relationship with
God and with the people of God. He encouraged seminarians to rediscover the preciousness
of the vocation to the priesthood, as St. Thomas himself did through his journey of faith.
The Feast of Dukhrana, commemorating the martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle, was
celebrated with great devotion. The day began with the solemn celebration of the Raza
Qurbana, the most solemn form of the Holy Mass in the Syro-Malabar church.
The celebrations were marked by an academy in honour of the feast. The event was graced by
the presence of Rt. Rev. Dr. Antony Valunkal.The academy was presided over by Fr. Rajesh
Maruthukunnel, Vice Rector of the seminary, who spoke about the spiritual enlightenment
that guided St. Thomas in overcoming challenges as he fearlessly proclaimed the Gospel. Br.
Loyola Moolayil delivered the message of the day, reflecting on how the doubt of St. Thomas
ultimately wipe out the stains of doubt of all other believers. Br. Paulson Thurappatt and Br.
Raphael Madassery performed a heartfelt song that enriched the beauty of the celebrations.
The entire event of Dukhrana provided a deep insightful experience for all seminarians.