Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra: a faithful servant and a beloved friar

Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra a faithful servant and a beloved friar was celebrated his Blissful Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee on  8th February 2025, with great joy and reverence at St. Francis Academy, Kanthalberia, Kolkata, West Bengal. The festivities began at 5:00 PM, as the air filled with anticipation and devotion. The event commenced with a vibrant processional dance performed by the Mahila Mandal of Holy Family Church, gracefully led by Mrs. Manju Tigga. Through this beautiful tradition, Rev. Fr. Kalyan Lakra and 20 other priests were warmly welcomed to the venue. In a heartfelt gesture rooted in tribal customs, their hands were washed as a symbol of purity and respect.

The highlight of the evening was the Thanksgiving Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Kalyan Lakra. During the Mass, Smt. Anupa Rekha Ekka eloquently narrated the inspiring life story of Fr. Kalyan Lakra, recounting his journey of faith and service. Rev. Fr. Marcel Dayasagar Barla then delivered a captivating sermon, leaving the congregation deeply moved. The Mass was further enriched by the melodious voices of Mrs. Sandhya Rekha Dungdung and Mr. Linus Dungdung, whose hymns resonated with the spirit of gratitude and celebration.

Following the Mass, a special welcome and reception program was held in honor of Fr. Kalyan Lakra. The event featured soulful songs that beautifully encapsulated his life and priestly journey, leaving the audience touched by his dedication and humility. As the evening progressed, a grand dinner was organized to mark the joyous occasion, bringing everyone together in fellowship and celebration.

The night reached its cultural pinnacle with the performance of the Silo dance, a traditional tribal dance that added a vibrant and heartfelt touch to the festivities. Finally, the Silver Jubilee program concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving, leaving everyone with a sense of fulfillment and divine grace.

The celebration was graced by the presence of 20 priests from various dioceses, who came to honor Fr. Kalyan Lakra on this momentous occasion. His beloved mother, Smt. Dulari Lakra, along with relatives from Ranchi, Jharkhand, Bihar, Siliguri -WB and Odisha, witnessed the jubilee with pride and joy. Additionally, the Father of Holy Family Church, Kestopur, and other esteemed dignitaries from Kolkata were also in attendance, making the event a truly memorable and blessed gathering.

A Journey of Faith, Dedication, and Service

As the faithful gather to celebrate the blissful Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee of Rev. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra, OFM Capuchin. on the 8th of february, 2025, at (Kanthalberia) Kolkata. It is a moment to reflect on the remarkable life and service of this humble servant of God.

Born on January 12, 1969, in the serene village of Rajaulhatu in Namkum, Ranchi Archdiocse , State of Jharkhand. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra grew up rooted in faith, nurtured by his devout parents, Late Mr. Marcus Lakra and Mrs. Dulari Lakra. Their unwavering guidance sowed the seeds of spirituality and discipline in his early life, which later flourished into a profound commitment to the Lord’s work.

Path to Priesthood

Rev. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra’s journey into religious life began with his First Profession on May 15, 1992, and culminated in his Final Profession on July 5, 1998. On May 6, 2000, he was ordained as a priest, marking the beginning of a dedicated and purposeful ministry.

Educational Excellence

A firm believer in the importance of education, Rev. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra achieved numerous academic laurels:

• Matriculation (1987) (Bihar Board)
• Intermediate (10+2) (1989) (Bhopal University)
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (1995) (Mysore University)
• Master of Arts (M.A.) (2006) (Mysore University)
• Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) (2010) (St. Xavier’s Autonomous College, Kolkata University)

Complementing his academic achievements, he also pursued religious studies, earning a Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) in 1999 and a Master of Theology (M.Th.) in 2001. These qualifications enriched his ministry and equipped him to inspire countless individuals through his pastoral and educational endeavors.

Ministry and Appointments

Over the years, Rev. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra has served in various capacities, leaving a lasting impact wherever he was called. From mentoring young novices to leading institutions, his leadership has been marked by compassion, wisdom, and humility.

• Vice-Novice Master, Vidya Sadan, Samlong, Ranchi (2001)
• Director of Orientation Students, Kripa Sadan, Aragate, Ranchi (2002)
• Guardian, Clara Nivas, Badibahal, Sambalpur (2005)
• Guardian & Vice Principal, Capuchin Ashram, Agra (2011)
• Principal of St. Conrad’s Inter College, Agra (2014–2020)
• House & School In-Charge, Assisi House, Kanthalberia, Kolkata (2020)

His roles extended beyond administration; he was elected IV Councillor in 2014 and III Councillor in 2017, reflecting the trust and respect he commands within the Capuchin community.

A Life of Dedication

Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra’s life is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the service of God and humanity. Whether guiding young minds, shepherding souls, or leading institutions, he has consistently embodied the values of humility, perseverance, and love.

As he celebrates 25 years of priesthood, Fr. Kalyan remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for all. His life reminds us that true greatness lies in serving others and walking humbly with God.

“To God be the glory for the remarkable journey of Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra, a faithful servant, and a beloved friar!”

Moral Conclusion

The life and ministry of Rev. Fr. Kalyan Paul Lakra, OFM Cap., are a shining testament to the profound impact of faith, humility, and dedication. From his humble beginnings in Rajaulhatu to his distinguished roles as a mentor, guardian, and principal, Fr. Kalyan has consistently exemplified the virtues of selfless service and unwavering commitment to God’s call.

Through his journey, he teaches us that true fulfillment lies in dedicating our talents and energy to uplift others, nurture the young, and build communities rooted in love and faith. His steadfast devotion reminds us that even in the face of challenges, a life anchored in God’s grace and guided by moral values can inspire transformation and hope.

As we celebrate his Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee, Fr. Kalyan’s life urges us to reflect on our own purpose, encouraging us to live with humility, strive for excellence, and serve with compassion. His legacy is a powerful reminder that every act of faith and kindness, no matter how small, contributes to the greater glory of God and the betterment of humanity.

“A life lived in service to God and others is a life truly well-lived.”