JAMSHEDPUR DIOCESE

 

Thrice blest is He to whom is given            For right is right, and God is God,

The instinct that can tell                              And right the day must win;

That God is on the field when He               To doubt would be disloyalty,

Is most invisible.                                           To falter would be sin.  ( F.W. Faber)

 

 

ENGAGEMENTS OF BISHOP FELIX TOPPO, S.J.        APRIL,2008
DATE	DAY	TIME		PLACE
01-03		08.30  a.m.	Classes at Pratiksha	Sundernagar
05	Fri	06.30 p.m	Easter Milan of JCUF	Golmuri
06	Sun	AM	Confirmation	Telco
06	Sun	03.30 p.m.	Meeting with Fr. Lisbert D’Souza	BH
08	Tue	AM	Blessing of the Chapel	Burigora
10	Thu	AM	Installation of Bishop Vincent Barwa	Simdega
11	Fri	AM	Consult	BH
13	Sun	AM	Silver Jubilee of Jisu Jaher Parish	Tundi
18	Fri	03.00 p.m.	Vikas Maitri  Meeting	Ranchi
19	Sat		Closing ceremony at Pratiksha	Sundernagar
22	Tue	AM	To Kolkata & to TLIG Convention	Egypt

 

 

 

 

D I O C E S AN   R O U N D  - U P !

 

Sacred Heart Church, Adra:  Fr. Edward Saldanha led a group of 21 members of the Parish Mahila Sangh for a pilgrimage to the tomb of Blessed Mother Teresa in Kolkata on March 01-02.It was the first visit for many and spent the time in praying the Rosary and reflection. Fr. Edward offered a special Mass at the tomb and visited the humble room where Mother lived. The fragrance of fresh flowers, bright candles evoked a feeling of special grace and holiness to all. It was indeed a great experience for the group. All returned strengthened in faith and love.

The election for the new Parish Council was held in the month of February and the members took oath of Office & Secrecy on Sunday, March 09. The following are the members : Fr. Jerome Pereira ( President), Ralph Francis (Vice President), Michael Joseph (Secretary), Ajay Lakra (Treasurer), Members:  Fr. Edward Saldanha, Atma Raj, M. Mandally Anthony, Emmanuel Tirkey, Thomas Paul, Benny, Shanta Deskai, Monica Francis, Martin John, Sonia Francis, Roselyn Perumal, Sr. Ann Minj, S. Dixion Mason, Sheela Francis, Dolly Chinna, M. Lazarus, Edward Samuel & Maxi Draper.

Fr. James Quadros preached a retreat for the parishioners on the 7^th, 8^th and 9^th in the parish Church. The retreat concluded at noon on the 9^th.(Sonya Francis)

 

Kripa Sadan, Bhilai Pahari:  Fr. Vernon returned after attending the Training for Formation Personnel at Navjyoti Niketan, Patna on March 09. He was delighted to see the clean and well laid out campus with much greenery and flowers. Bro. Arnold was to sell out the Roses for the Valentine Day but failed to attract many customers. Mrs. Elizabeth Johnston & Mrs. Lydia Richard (from Canada) managed the classes and trained the boys well during the absence of Fr. Vernon. The Holy Week Liturgy was held in the convent chapel. On Good Friday all joined for the Way of the Cross on the campus road and the seminarians carried a big cross for every station. Frs. Casimir and Vernon are busy in preparing for the blessing of the new classrooms chapel and dinning hall.. It is hoped that some sponsors will come forward and support them to construct a concrete and modern basketball court for the candidates.(Vernon)

 

St. John Mary Vianney Church, Dhowatand:   Fr. Edward Kongari is busy in registering more plots of land attached to his campus and supervising the construction work. Bro. Sonu Handa joined him for summer ministry in the parish on March 18th. Fr. Edward Kongari himself presided over the Holy Week liturgy at the center and people from all the villages took active part in the celebrations.  Fr. Edward stayed in the campus during the Holy Week and Sonu continues to be there during the vacation. On Easter Sunday after the morning Mass all stayed back to prepare and share the Easter meal. It was almost 3.00 p.m. that the faithful left for home celebrations. (Edward)

 

St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad: This year Charismatic retreat for the parishioners was preached by a team from Varnasi-Bareily. The whole day retreat for 3 days attracted many faithful and all experienced the love of the Lord. Congratulations to Fr. Richard Miranda for the initiative and guidance for the faith life of the parishioners. Fr. Richard presided over the Palm Sunday liturgy in the Church on March 16 at 7.00 a.m. The Church was filled with faithful from all over the parish.

 

 

Bishop’s House, Golmuri: The Diocesan Clergy Meeting was held on March 13 from 9.30 a.m. to 12.00noon. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided over the sessions and 43 priests were present. During the Tea-break at 10.30 a.m. a special birthday cake was cut by Frs. Chonas Xalxo (!3/3) and Elvius Dungdung (14/3) to add joy for the gathering.

Fr. Mathew Channikyzhy gave an inspiring talk for the recollection for Priests, Clergy and Religious at the Cathedral at 3.00 p.m.  Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided over the solemn Chrism Mass in the Cathedral at 5.30 p.m. This was followed by felicitation of the Jubilarians-: Sacerdotal Golden Jubilee of Bishop Emeritus J.R. Rodericks, S.J. and Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee of Frs. Pius Fernandes, Stan Kujur and Hilarius Kongari. Later all the Priests, Clergy, and Religious assembled at the Welfare Centre Hall for the agape. The Jubilarians jointly cut the special cake while the gathering rose to joyful singing. Bishop Joe Rodericks offered the prayer of the grace. All shared the family meal prepared by Fr. David Vincent and team at the Welfare Centre Hall. Thanks to Fr. Michael Raj for the beautiful decoration and seating arrangements in the Hall.

The oldest dog of the house, “Brownie” died on Easter Sunday morning at 3.00 a.m., says Nathu.  Msgr. was to officiate at the last rite at 11.00 a.m. for the 13 year old dog. Since he wasn’t well enough to do so Fr. Cyprian Lobo together with Bro. Jilson and James Laguri conducted the ceremony.

The community celebrated the Sacerdotal Golden Jubilee of Fr. Jonckheere, S.J. on March 26 during the lunch. Msgr. John Bodra offered a garland while Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. honoured him with a shawl.

On the same evening the community thanked all the priests who were part of the organizing committee for the CBCI meeting at XLRI.

Fr. Raphael Monteiro celebrated his 55^th birthday with the Bishop’s House community on March 27.

There was a special gathering of the town clergy to felicitate Bishop Joe Rodericks, S.J on the occasion of his Sacerdotal Golden Jubilee on March 27. The clergy of the town (48) came for the celebrations in the Curia Hall at 7.00 p.m.

The 3^rd year philosophers (28) from Morning Star College, Barrackpore visited Jamsehdpur from March 29-31 in the company of Fr. Samuel Lepcha and Fr. Patrick Walsh, S.J. They stayed at the Vikas Bharati and visited Dimna, Bhilai Pahari, XLRI, Jubilee Park, Centre for Excellence, Bishop’s House and Jamshedpur Dairy. 

 

 

St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri: Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided over the solemn Maundy Thursday Liturgy in the Cathedral at 5.30 p.m. The Church was packed with faithful. Fr. Amatus was the celebrant for the Good Friday and Easter Vigil Services. Frs. Michael Raj, Vijay Kachhap, S.J. and David Vincent were the Chief Celebrants at the Mercy Chapel and Gyandeep for the Holy Week.

St. Mary’s Church, N. Road : Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the Chief Celebrant at the Good Friday Liturgy at the Parish. The ceremonial liturgy was held at the forecourt of the Hindi School and the CAJ had made special seating arrangements for all. Fr. Marcel Barla OFM (Cap) presided at the Easter Vigil Mass and preached an inspiring homily for the joy of one and all.

 

 

 

 

St. Joseph’s Parish, Charbandia: Mr. Noas Lakra, a Catechist from Barilapta Parish, Gangur, Orissa conducted 3 days of Charismatic retreat for the Parishioners from February 27-30. Over 1000 faithful took part in the retreat and many experienced the Lord’s blessings for healing during the retreat. Faithful from Omra and other far out villages participated in the retreat and prepared well for the joyful celebration of Easter.(Bene) 

 

St. Anthony’s Parish, Kutkudungri:  Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided over the solemn Palm Sunday liturgy in the Parish Church on March 16 at 7.00 a.m. The palms were blessed outside the church and the faithful entered the Church in procession and singing with palms in their hand.  Frs. Pascal Sisto and Boniface Kujur concelebrated with the Bishop.(Pascal Toppo)

 

Sacred Heart School, Adra: An ‘orientation ‘ for the teachers of Sacred Heart School was held in the first week of March. Mr. Sheker Shukla (Calcutta) was the facilitator. Mr. John Majumdhar, Principal, Assembly of God’s Church, Purulia was present for the orientation. Theme of the orientation was TEACHABILITY AND FROM ORDINARY TO THE EXTRA –ORDINARY. The program was very informative and special tips were given how to handle children well in the class after knowing the child.

 23 students wrote ICSE examination this year. There is a great rush for the admissions and already 160 students have been admitted.

 17^th March was the 1^st day of the new session and it began with a prayer service for the parents, staff and children. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the Chief Guest and addressed the parents and students explaining the true meaning of Education. Bishop blessed and installed the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in front of the Principal’s office during the prayer service. Bishop blessed the new classrooms as well as every classroom and prayed for the teachers, students and parents. Bishop honoured Mrs. Jackline Lobo, who donated the statue and Mr. Arun Kumar Daw, who got the podium constructed and donated. 

Two minutes silence was observed to remember and pray for the soul of Mrs. Shakutala  Agarwal, mother of Gaurav Agarwal of Std. X, who passed away on 13^th March in a fire accident.

The Graduation Ceremony for the Class X students was held on 29^th March at 5.30 p.m. and Fr.(Dr.) Hilary Lobo, Principal, St. Xavier’s English School, Purulia  was the Chief Guest.( Mrs. Jaqckline Lobo)

 

St. Joseph’s center, Patamda: Bro. Arnold DDS and Mr. Thomas Murray make daily visits to the farm to see to the workers, trees and residence. The CO has ordered the final measurement of the land and it will be done shortly. The construction work will begin as soon as the legal formalities are completed. The villagers are anxious that we start a regular clinic at the site for the local villagers.(Arnold)

 

Prabhu Marsal Parish, Goilkera: The Holy Week services were well participated by the faithful. The continuous drizzling stopped some families to reach for the midnight Mass on the 22^nd night but those who came left only after the morning Mass. The trees and flowers in the campus have a new look and colour with the rains. All the villages of the parish were visited during the lent and with the help of the catechists penitential services were held. The new toilet block is ready for use with the inauguration of the new academic sessions.(Linus)

 

Krus Putri Niwas, Khuntpani:  Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. blessed and inaugurated the newly constructed hostel for girls in front of the convent on March 25 during the solemn concelebrated Eucharist. There were more than 400 faithful present for the solemn event. Sr. Flora Lakra, FC, the Vice Provincial was present. The Sisters honoured Mr. Ephrem Kisptotta (Architect) and Mr. Gopal Sharma (Contractor) during the felicitation ceremony. All shared tea and snacks after the Mass. The clergy and religious joined the Sisters for a sumptuous family meal at 12.30 p.m.

 

Amar Jyoti School, Pardih: Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was Chief Guest for the School Annual Prize Night on March 27 at 5.00 p.m. in the school grounds. Mr. James Davis, Chief Personal Manager of TCIL was the Guest of Honour The students mesmerized the audience with various cultural and artistic performances on the stage. The campus was crowded with parents guardians, invitees and villagers to witness the spectacular event at Amar Jyoti. Congratulations to Sr. Severine SSH (Headmistress), staff and students for the grand Annual Day.

 

St. Joseph’s Hospital, Bhilai Pahari:  On March 15, Katerina Vovkova, the First Secretary and Consul, Embassy of the Czech Republic in New Delhi paid a courtesy visit to the hospital. Srs. Annie, Mary and Anasthesia together with the Staff welcomed her with a flower bouquet. She visited all the wards and met the patients. She also went around the campus to see the facilities available for the patients. She was happy to see the beautiful campus and its greenery. She rushed back as she was to be to attend the inauguration of the International Film Festival at the Beldih Club in the afternoon.

Sr. Annie, Frs. Cyprain Lobo and Vernon D”souza together with couple of the hospital staff attended the wedding celebration of Priyanka Kerketta (Clerk/Receptionist) in Ranchi on March 28.

 

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Telco: Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided at the solemn Easter Vigil service at the Parish Church on March 22 at 11.00 p.m. The faithful actively participated in the Liturgy and gave glory and praise to the Risen Lord. Fr. Johny P.D. conducted the choir. 

 

St. Joseph of Tabes, Bistupur:  The Sisters of Tabes honoured St. Joseph with a special meal for the clergy, religious and benefactors on March 30 at 7.00 p.m. in the convent. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. offered the prayer of grace thanking the Sisters for their presence and valuable contribution for the people of the diocese.\

 

N A T I O N A L – I N T E R N A T I O N A L- R O U N D – U P!

 

St. Albert’s College, Ranchi: Month of March was one of the busiest months for us. On the one hand exam preparations, the extra-curricular activities to the other the Holy Week celebrations. 5th of March was the day of Annual pilgrimage to Ulihatu. The mass was at 10 a.m. 6th of March was the day of group singing competition animated by one of the animation groups of second year philosophers. 17th was the day of Debate contest on a burning issue of the Church, “Should the Catholic Church have the married clergy?” This was animated by one of the animation groups of third year theologians. Feast of St. Joseph was celebrated with traditional attire with a solemn Eucharist on 14th. On 14th and 15th, an English drama, entitled, ‘Kamala’ was staged as a part of the celebrations of the feast. His Eminence witnessed this drama on the second day. It was based on women exploitation, and trafficking.  27 theologians were initiated into the Sacred Order of Diaconate and Priesthood by His Eminence Cardinal at a solemn Eucharistic celebration on 17th of March. Due to rain, we had the privilege of celebrating the Lord’s Last Supper at SAC Common Chapel. The religious of the neighbouring houses packed the chapel to its full capacity. Fr. Suman Kumar Ekka was the Main Celebrant. He washed the feet of 12 brothers, chosen from both theology and philosophy. Lord’s Supper was also celebrated in the Cathedral. Good Friday and Easter vigils were commemorated at Loyola ground in spite of threats of rain. (rfcrasta)

 

Pope Urges Priests to Believe, Think and Speak with Church: The essence of priestly ministry is service, Pope Benedict XVI says, encouraging priests to renew their ‘yes’ to the call of God.

The Pope spoke about the essence of the priesthood today at the Holy Thursday Chrism mass held at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Mass brought together some 1600 priests, and Cardinals and Bishops to renew the promises they made on the day of their ordination.
According to the Old Testament, the Holy Father explained, there are two tasks that define the essence of the priestly ministry: to be present before the Lord and to serve. (cbcisite)

 

Morning Star College, Barrackpore: The Holy Season of Lent brought us all to a deeper God-experience and a stronger awareness of being loved by Him. The Theologians were out for the Holy Week Services in their respective Parishes of Pastoral Ministry and the Philosophers had theirs in the house with our neighbouring communities. The 11th of March was very significant for us all as we took a rally to protest the atrocities done unto the Christian brethren in Orissa and Chatisgarh. Bro. Bipin had two weeks of Contextual Theology programme among the people in the Parish of Shahanagar, Asansol Diocese, from 2nd to the 16th of this month. The 3rd year Philosophers are busy preparing for their comprehensive examination, which is on 28th of March.  Our summer vacation begins from April, 28.(Felix Anthony)

  

Holy Spirit College, Leuven: I wish you all a blessed Easter and Easter Season. I assisted at a parish in Germany during the Holy Week services. We had a beautiful Easter amidst hostile weather conditions. Heavy snow and bitter cold hardly dampened the spirits of the enthusiastic faithful. The second Sunday of Easter, which is also known as the White Sunday, is the day for Children's first Holy Communion. It was celebrated with devotion and fervour. I have submitted my doctoral dissertation to the Faculty Board. Four professors, including the Promoter, will read the text and are to submit the evaluation report to the Faculty Board within six weeks. So I expect the public defense to take place before May 31, 2008. (John Crasta)    

 

Orissa HC Stays Govt Order Restraining NGOs from Aiding Violence Victims:  The High Court of Orissa, Cuttack has granted stay on the implementation of the Order of the District Collector and District Magistrate of Kandhamal District proclaimed on 11 January 2008 which had affectively banned the Church and NGOs from giving relief to the victims of the Anti-Christian violence during Christmas week.

The Bench consisting of Chief Justice Mr. Justice AK Ganguly and Mr. Justice BN Mahapatra on 18 March 2008 passed the relevant order and posted the matter for further hearing on 3^rd April 2008 (cbcisite)

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