WARANGAL, Telangana (Indian Catholic News) — Bishop Vijaya Paul Reddy Duggimpudi of Warangal set November’s spiritual tone, urging Catholics to pursue holiness, honour the departed, embrace Christ the King’s true leadership, and transform their faith into active service.
Opening the month that begins with the Solemnity of All Saints and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, the bishop reminded the faithful that holiness is accessible to everyone. Citing scripture, he noted that Jesus tells us, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16).
The bishop, in his pastoral message published in the November issue of Fatima Vani the diocesan newsletter, emphasised that the saints “became holy not because their lives were free from difficulties, but because they remained faithful to God amid their struggles”.
He added that ordinary circumstances—such as “a parent caring for a child, a priest serving his people, a religious sister ministering to the poor, a teacher forming young minds, or a young person choosing what is right despite pressure from others”—form the bedrock of everyday holiness.
“Dear faithful, let us not think that holiness is beyond our reach,” Bishop Duggimpudi stated, adding that “a forgiving heart, an honest life, a sincere prayer, a helping hand, and a word of encouragement can become steps towards holiness”.
Remembering the departed and embracing Christ the King
Addressing the remembrance of loved ones during November, Bishop Duggimpudi acknowledged that while absence leaves a deep emptiness, “Christian faith assures us that death does not have the final word”.
He quoted Jesus’ declaration: “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). He encouraged the community to offer Holy Masses, visit cemeteries with reverence, and accompany families who grieve.
Turning toward the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe on November 22, the bishop highlighted a model of servant leadership.
He explained that Jesus “reigns not through domination, but through love; not through pride, but through humility; and not through self-interest, but through self-giving service”. Quoting scripture further, he reminded the faithful that “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45).
“Leadership is not a privilege to be enjoyed but a responsibility to be exercised for the good of others,” the bishop noted. “As shepherds of God’s people, we are called to listen patiently, act justly, protect the vulnerable, and lead by example”.
Diocesan mission and preparing for Advent
Renewing his appeal for the diocesan mission, Bishop Duggimpudi stressed that outreach extends beyond sacraments and institution maintenance to encompass education, healthcare, family ministry, and preferential care for the marginalised.
Quoting the Gospel, he reminded the faithful: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
The month concludes with the beginning of Advent on November 29, moving the Church from remembering heavenly destiny to preparing for the coming of the Savior.
Concluding his message with a pastoral blessing, Bishop Duggimpudi expressed gratitude to the clergy, religious, catechists, teachers, healthcare workers, and lay collaborators of Warangal Diocese.
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