Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Fifty-two religious men and women were honored during a Mass for the World Day for Consecrated Life on February 2, coinciding with the feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre led the service at the Cathedral of the Assumption, celebrating jubilees ranging from 25 to 80 years. The archbishop expressed gratitude to those gathered, describing them as a "light" in their ministry.

Among those commemorating their jubilees was Conventual Franciscan Father George Manjanattu, who delivered the homily. Reflecting on St. Luke's Gospel account of Jesus' presentation in the temple, Father Manjanattu highlighted Simeon and Anna as devout figures serving in the temple who exemplify consecrated life today.

"Simeon and Anna could be called the first Christian evangelists. What is special about them?" asked Father Manjanattu, marking his 25th year as a Franciscan priest. He noted that their understanding of Jesus stemmed from "intimacy with God." According to him, devotion, prayer, fasting, and adherence to God's commands are essential lessons taught by Simeon and Anna.

Father Manjanattu described consecrated life as "a beautiful thing," emphasizing its inherent freedom. "I have found that the greatest freedom in consecrated life comes from opening the gates of everything that I am and letting God in on it," he stated.

He further emphasized that Simeon and Anna remind religious individuals of their role in spreading Christ's light: "The more intimate we become with the Lord, the greater his light grows within us."

In conclusion, he urged those present to embrace their roles as modern-day Annas and Simeons: "Let us, then, with renewed enthusiasm on the feast of the Lord’s Presentation, take up the challenge to be Annas and Simeons of our time."

Religious men and women serving in Louisville's Archdiocese attended this special Mass. Those celebrating jubilee years received recognition at this liturgical event.