Mangaluru: St Joseph’s Seminary celebrated the 77ᵗʰ Republic Day of India with deep devotion, gratitude, and patriotic fervour, organised by the Hindi Academy. The celebration beautifully reflected the seminary’s theme of Human Formation, fostering values of responsibility, truth, unity and service.

The day began with a Holy Mass at 7:35 a.m., celebrated in Hindi, highlighting unity in diversity. The main celebrant was Rev. Fr Meckenzie Mendonca, OP, Assistant Parish Priest of St Dominic Church. The concelebrants included Rev. Fr Jencil, Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, Rector and Hindi Academy Moderator, along with four other priests.

The liturgical singing was meaningfully led by the brothers of the Hindi Academy, creating a prayerful and solemn atmosphere. In his inspiring homily, Rev. Fr Meckenzie beautifully connected Republic Day, the Word of God, and Christian responsibility. He reminded the community that Republic Day calls citizens to recognise their shared national identity and their duty to work for justice, peace, and unity.

Reflecting on the first reading, he emphasised that praying for leaders and authorities is not a mere ritual but a true Christian duty rooted in hope, peace, and human dignity. He further observed that in today’s world, many voices—media, politics, fear and public opinion—shape human thinking. However, true freedom, as taught by Jesus in the Gospel, does not come from power or position, but from truth. This truth becomes meaningful only when lived according to God’s Word. He invited everyone to grow in inner freedom—freedom from hatred, prejudice, division and falsehood—so that their lives may reflect the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, lived with love and compassion.

Following the Holy Mass, the community gathered for the Flag Hoisting Ceremony, expressing love and respect for the nation. Br Savio Fernando welcomed the gathering, while Br Ankit Toppo led the parade command. The National Flag was hoisted by Mrs Flavia and the Preamble to the Constitution was read by Br Rajath, followed by an address by Rev. Fr Meckenzie.

The programme was conducted with enthusiasm and a strong sense of national pride, reflecting values essential for human and priestly formation. The 77ᵗʰ Republic Day celebration proved to be a grace-filled and formative experience, nurturing patriotism, responsibility, truthfulness, and unity—key elements of human formation. It encouraged the brothers to become responsible citizens and committed servants, guided by Gospel values and constitutional ideals.