The World Day of Consecrated Life was solemnly celebrated on February 2 at the Bangladesh Conference of the Religious (BCR) Centre in Savar, under the Archdiocese of Dhaka.
Held under the theme “Consecrated in Christ, Illuminated by Hope,” the event brought together around 300 participants, including priests, brothers, and sisters from various religious congregations, as well as seminarians and aspirants from different formation houses across the country.
Fr. Ripon Rozario, SJ, who reflected on the theme, emphasized that being illuminated by hope in consecrated life means carrying out every task selflessly and becoming a source of light that renews hope in the lives of others. He noted that consecrated persons are called to move forward with joy and perseverance, even amid difficulties and moments of despair.
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr. James Cruze, CSC. In his homily, he described the life of consecrated persons as a guiding light for the Church and society. “Self-sacrifice and the courage to move forward in the face of challenges are the true beauty of consecrated life,” he said.
During the celebration, priests, brothers, and sisters who have dedicated their lives to consecration shared personal reflections. Drawing inspiration from Mary and Saint Joseph offering Jesus in the Temple, they said they had freely chosen a life of offering and service, which they continue to live with joy and fulfillment.
They also shared that, filled with inner peace and divine love, they are selflessly engaged in the service of Jesus and in mission work. At the same time, they made a special appeal to young people, encouraging more young men and women to respond generously to the call to consecrated life and to participate actively in the mission of the Church.
In her concluding remarks, Sr. Pushpa Gomes, CSC, President of the BCR, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee and to all those present for making the celebration meaningful and successful.
