JAMSHEDPUR DIOCESE

 

 

God rises up and scatters his enemies.

Those who hate him run away in defeat.

As smoke is blown away, so he drives them off:

As wax melts in front of the fire,

So do the wicked perish in God’s presence.

But the righteous are glad and rejoice in his presence;

They are happy and shout for joy. (Psalm 68)

 

 

 

 

D I O C E S A N   R O U N D  - U P!

 

ST. MARY’S CHURCH, BISTUPUR:  St. Mary’s Church was desecrated and vandalized in the night of 23^rd September. Some miscreants broke open the Church door towards the Presbytery and entered.  They broke the sacristy lock and took the key and opened the Tabernacle. They threw the Blessed Sacrament on the altar and on the floor. The Sacred Vessels, the big brass oil-lamp and some of the brass candle-stands were taken away. They bolted the presbytery door from out side so that nobody can come out. It was discovered in the morning of 24^th when the sacristan and some parishioners reached the Church for Mass. Immediately information was given to the local police and they rushed to take stock of the vandalism. The SP and 3 DSPs visited the campus with force for investigation. On the 24th evening Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided at a special Mass in the Church in reparation for the desecration to the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.  Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. conducted the adoration after the Concelebrated Eucharist. Priests,  Religious and Faithful from the many town parishes voluntarily came for the evening service. There were 27 Priests for the Con-celebration.

The parishioners celebrated ‘Mother’s Day’ on August 31. Fr. George Manna presided at the Con-celebrated Mass in the Church at 7.15 a.m. Members of the Parish Mahila Sangh took care of all the arrangements including the introduction, prayers of the faithful, offertory and thanksgiving. The mothers with lighted candles led the celebrants to the altar. After the Mass all assembled in front of the Grotto for tea and snacks. Later all the mothers assembled in the school hall and Mrs. Dilith Castleton addressed them and led them to discussions and action plan. The Parish celebration concluded with the lunch at 1.00 p.m.

Fr. Gilbert D’Souza, S.J. was the Chief Celebrant at the solemn Mass in honour of the Nativity of Mother Mary on September 08 at 5.30 p.m. and Fr. Mike Thanaraj, S.J., the Jesuit Provincial of Jamshedpur gave an inspiring homily. The Church was packed with faithful. (Joy Paul)

 

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, TELCO: Fr. Raphael Monteiro, the Assistant Parish Priest presided at the “Mother’s Day” Mass in the Church at 7.00 a.m. on August 31. Mothers in large number were present to participate in the Mass and the programs that followed. All had breakfast and lunch together in the Parish Hall. The children honoured the mothers with special gifts and flowers.

The Parish Council organized a silent march in the colony to express solidarity with the suffering brethren in Orissa on Sunday September 14 at 3.00 p.m. More than 800 parishioners took part and prayed for the suffering fellow Christians in Orissa.. At the end of the procession, various religious heads addressed the congregation.

Pastor, Fr. Vijay Bhat celebrated his 60^th birthday on September 19.  He presided at the special birthday Mass in the Church in the evening. Few clergymen from the town assembled at the Lupita Hall in the evening for the special birthday dinner.

 

 

ST. ANTHONY’S CHURCH, KUTKUDUNGRI:  Grand celebration took place in the Parish to commemorate ‘Mother’s Day’ on Sunday, August 31. Fr. Sanjay Kujur, C.Ss.R was the Chief Celebrant at the solemn Mass in the Church. Mothers in tribal prayer dance led the celebrants into the Church and organized the liturgy in a very fitting manner. After the Mass all assembled in the Parish Hall and felicitated the Mothers with flowers and cultural items. The Parish Council arranged a sumptuous meal for all the mothers to conclude the parish celebration of ‘Mother’s Day’.(Sanjay)

 

BISHOP’S HOUSE, GOLMURI :  Mgr. John Bodra had the 2^nd dialysis on September 01 and that gave him much relief. Streams of visitors were lining up outside the ICU to have a word with him or just for a glance of the great veteran missionary of the Diocese.

Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. took classes for the Propaedeutic Seminarians at Pratiskha, Neeldungri from September 01-03 on ‘ Human Psychology’.

Dr. John Mundu, S.J. guided the recollection for our ‘Regents’ on August 30-31 at the Mother Teresa Niwas. Fr. John Mundu later camped at the MTC to give support to Msgr. for sometime. Fr. Patras Mundu, C.Ss.R came and spent some time with Msgr. in the hospital. On September 03 Fr. George Manna gave Msgr. the Sacrament of the Sick on his request in the presence of Fr. Michael Raj. He was warned later that visa will not be granted so easily. On the next day he was able to sit up and enjoy food and then went into a coma for 4 days. On September 10 Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo visited him and blessed and Msgr. rose back to life. On the 25^th he was shifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Bhilai Pahari as he wanted a change of place and to enjoy greener environment. 

The community celebrated the 52^nd birthday of Fr. Vijay Kachhap, S.J. on September 04 during the community meal in the evening. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. returned after attending the FABC Seminar in Bangkok on the 16^th and left for Rome on September 26 via Bangalore. 

Fr. David rushed Bishop Joe Rodericks, S.J. to Mercy Hospital on September 25 evening with blood oozing out from both his legs. The doctors on duty attended to him and permitted him reluctantly to return home with a special request to meet them the next day. He is hale and hearty and at work as usual.

Fr. Joseph Horo, C.Ss.R  from Kenya paid a short visit to Jamshedpur in the last week of the month and visited the many known people in the diocese. He had done his Regency at St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih and hails from Rumtukel Parish.

The meeting of the Principals/Headmistresses/Headmasters was held at the Curia Hall, Bishop’s House on September 13 from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. Fr. George Manna presided at the meeting. Fr. Savarimuthu, S.J. was the resource person.

 

 

 

ST. ANTHONY’S CHURCH, DHANBAD :   Fr. Valerian Lobo was the Chief Celebrant at the ‘Mother’s Day’ Mass on August 31 at St. Anthony’s at 7.00 a.m. The Liturgy was well organized and the women took special interest to get everybody involved in the celebration. Later all the women gathered at the School Hall and Fr. Valerian Lobo addressed and led them to meaningful discussion. The programme concluded with lunch.(Edward)

ST. JOSEPH’S SCHOOL, GOLMURI: The Alumni Association of St. Joseph’s Hindi School organized a special gathering of its members and School Staff on August 31 at 12.15 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Welfare Center Hall. This was to thank one another after the successful celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the School as well as to gift copies of the “Golden Jubilee Souvenir”. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J and Fathers from the Bishop’s House were present. Bro. Jacob, DDS welcomed the guests and Alumni Members. The School Staff presented a prayer song and invited everybody to share the family meal arranged for the occasion.

The students of St. Joseph’s School celebrated the ‘Teacher’s Day’  on September 05  with great enthusiasm. All the teachers were felicitated and honoured during the cultural programme with flowers and token gifts. The school celebration ended with a special meal for the teachers at 1.00 p.m. (Jacob, DDS) 

 

MOTHER TERESA PARISH, SIADIH: The Siadih Parish community was enriched by the loving visits of Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J, Fr. Eugene Ekka and team, Fr. Halan Bodra, Frs. David and Vijay Kachhap and Fr. Panner Selvam, S.J. and company during the month of August.

Vianney Day was celebrated on August 04 and Fr. Michael Jojo, the Parish Priest presided at the Mass. Parishioners and hostel children felicitated Fr. Michael Jojo during the cultural programme. Competitions were conducted for the women and a Hockey Match for the men to conclude the community feasting.

On August 14 to 17 the Parish organized ‘Hockey’ tournament with 12 ‘Khasi’ and one ‘Banda,. The village ‘Munda’ inaugurated the tournament. Teams from Tata, Khunti, Vijayagiri participated in the games.

The Parish bid a fond farewell to Sr. Nirmala, F.C., the Superior of Deepanjali Convent and welcomed Sr. Usha, F.C. as the new Superior. Sr. Usha, F.C. had to rush home to attend the funeral of her own sister. (Alwin. C.V.)

 

OUR LADY OF NATIVITY CHURCH, SINI: Thanks to Frs. Cyriac and George for their tireless effort for the people of the mission and welcome to Frs. Shantwan Khutekar ,Shiju Mangalath and Bro. Rijo, the new team at Sini. The solemnity of the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary, the Parish Day was celebrated on September 07. Fr.Vijay Kachhap, S.J. was the Chief Celebrant at the concelebrated Eucharist at 10.00 a.m. in the Church.

St. Xavier’s School at Sini has classes up to V. and St. Francis de Sales (SFS) School at Seraikela has reached up to class VII. The SFS School bagged many prizes in the competitions held on the occasion of the Independence Day at the district level. Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate (ASMI) of Bhopal Province, along with the MSFS Fathers are involved in the Pastoral, educational and health ministry. Assisi health Centre at Mohitpur village in Sini is rendering excellent medical care for the local people. Srs. Lellis, Jessy, Josilia and Vineeta are residing at Assisi Sneha Bhavan, Mohitpur and Sr. Christy pursuing Nursing Studies at Jeevan Jytoi School of Nursing, Telco.

The contact numbers: MSFS House ( 9304284758), Fr. Shantwan (9905316266), Fr. Shiju (9470386837), SFS School ( 06597- 290887), Assisi Convent/Hospital, Mohitpur   (  9308196918), Sr. Lellis (9430183472). ( Shiju)

MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY, DHANBAD: Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. presided at the Feast Day Mass in honour of Blessed Mother Teresa in the Convent Chapel at Barwada, Dhanbad on September 05 at 10.00 a.m. The Catholic families residing near to the convent and some Priests from the area took part in the celebrations.

The new plot of land acquired for the Sisters is being fenced and the buildings will soon come up.   

 

ENGAGEMENTS OF BISHOP FELIX TOPPO, S.J. – OCTOBER, 2008
01	Wed		To Delhi
02	Thu		To Rome
03	Fri		Visitation of Pon. Urbano- Dileep Marandi	Rome
05-26			Synod of Bishops	Rome
27	Mon		Visit to Germany

 

DAMIEN SOCIAL WELFARE CENTRE, GOVINDPUR: The AGM & Governing Body meeting of DSWC was held at the Nirmala Campus on September 04 at 4.00 p.m. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. the President of the Board of Governors presided at the proceedings. Fr. Walter Crasta, Director, presented the annual report of the organization and its activities. The audited statement of account was presented and the members approved the same unanimously. The members discussed and approved the various action plans.

The first part of the 4 winged new block for the Girl’s Hostel with classrooms was held on September 05 and the second lot on the 28^th. (Nicholas)

 

CATHOLIC ASHRAM, BALRAMPUR: Fr. Cyprian Lobo was rushed to Jamshedpur by Mr. Ranjit on Monday, September 08 as he felt giddy in the morning. He got admitted in Mercy Hospital until 12^th .

The construction work is progressing well.  The Nursery Class has 55 children. Two Anglo-Indian Lady teachers shuttle from Anara daily to take classes.  Bro. Guna Gabriel is the Acting Headmaster at present.

Spoken English classes will begin from the 1^st week of October for the youth of the area and Fr. Cyrpian Lobo will head of the department.(Guna Gabriel)

 

JISU MARSAL ASHRAM, HATIKUNDER: The Teacher’s Day was celebrated at St. Xavier’s School on September 05 with much joy and solemnity. Pastor, Fr. Manu Horo presided at the Eucharist and the children offered special prayers for the teachers. It was also an occasion to remember Blessed Mother Teresa. After the Mass and breakfast the children performed on the stage many items and expressed their gratitude for the teachers. The children felicitated the teachers with flowers and gifts. Then followed the football match between the Staff and Students that ended in a draw to the surprise of one and all. The penalty shoot out proved that the students are faster and stronger in the game.

Pastor, Fr. Manu Horo celebrated his 59^th birthday on September 07 in company of the hostel children and teachers. Frs. Vijay Kacchap, S.J. and George Manna reached the for lunch. Fr. Manu had to cut a special Chocolate cake with the whole community at noon and shared in great jubilation. The celebrations continued even after the sumptuous meal. (Sameer)

 

CONVENTION OF BIJHAN DIOCESAN PRIESTS’ COUNCIL: The convention was held at the Catholic Charities, Sundernagar on September 09-10. Bishop Charles Soreng, S.J., Bishop of Hazaribagh inaugurated the convention on September 09 at 9.15 a.m. Cardinal Telepshore p. Toppo though arrived a bit late took part in all the sessions and presided at the Con-celebrated Eucharist at 6.30 p.m.

Fr. Anil Dev, IMS was the resource person for the sessions with the theme ‘ WORD OF GOD IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF THE DIOCESAN PRIESTS’. It was indeed a challenge for the 87 Diocesan Priests  present to listen to Fr. Anil.

Bishop Charels Soreng, S.J. was the Chief Celebrant for the Mass on the 10^th at 6.30 a.m. On the 2^nd Day Cardinal addressed the Priests and presided at the inter-actions. Bishop Charles  Soreng too addressed the gathering and was present throughout the convention.

Reports were read out from all the dioceses. Fr. Camille Hembrom is the elected representative from Jamshedpur Diocese. It is suggested that all the dioceses of the region will form units as per the bye-laws and report back to the Executive Body.  Jamshedpur Diocese had 21 priests but some of them attended only few sessions.

The assembly unanimously agreed to have the next convention at the SDC, Ranchi in 2009. Congratulations to the Executive Committee of the Bijhan Diocesan Priests Forum.(Camille)

 

ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH, BURIGORA: We are fine here and doing our best to reach out to the people all around us. This month we were really involved in the preparation and celebration of St. Monica's Feast as ‘Mother’s Day’. It was a great day for all the mothers and women of the Burigora. We had many meetings for planning. The women took it wholeheartedly and got organized.  They made it very colourful and meaningful on 7th Sept preceded by a special prayer and fasting for all the victims of Orissa's religious intolerance and also for Bihar and Assam flood affected people. Four Priests Con-celebrated at the solemn Eucharist. Apart from Fr. Petrus & Fr. S. Ekka, the presence of Fr. Ranjit Beck C.Ss.R (Rourkela, Kalunga) and Fr. Sanjay Kujur (Golmuri) added joy in the festivity. Soon after the mass there was praise and worship for 45 minutes. Later the mothers were felicitated with songs hymns and offering a flower each.  Mrs. Bodra from CKP was the Chief Guest. She shared the entire life story of St. Monica and her persistent prayer for St. Augustine. She enlightened and encouraged not only the mothers but the entire assembly. The celebration came to the climax during the cultural programs and sport organized for the mothers. The mothers themselves acted out Kawali which brought smiles and laughter at every face. The men folk also joined hand and prepared a delicious meal for everyone present. it was the first experience the people of Burigora ever experienced as this feast brought unity and collaboration. thanks, ( Petrus Barla)

 

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHEDRAL, GOLMURI: Fr. Michael Raj presided at the solemn Mass on the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary in the Cathedral Church. The faithful assembled at the flag post at 5.00 p.m. and a Rosary procession was taken out through the school campus. The Mass began at 6.00 p.m. and the church was filled with devotees of Mother Mary. The choir rendered devotional hymns during the liturgy.

Celebrations were held at the Mercy Chapel and at Gyan Deep and this is the first time no mass centre had the food distribution for the people.

BIBLE QUIZ: The Bible Quiz on the Gospel according to St. Mathew was organized by the Cathedral Parish Council at the Welfare Centre Hall on September 14 at 3.30 p.m. The programme began with the lighting of the lamp by the Guests. Fr. George Manna was the Chief Guest. Mrs. Arputham Mary was the M.C. Mr. Ephrem Kispotta, the Quiz Master gave an introduction of the proceedings. The following twelve schools participated in the competition.(1) St. Joseph’s School, Golmuri, (2) St. Robert’s School, Parsudih,(3) Gyan Deep Vidyalaya, Birsanagar, (4) St. Mary’s Hindi School, Bistupur, (5) St. Mary’s English School, Bistupur, (6) Sacred Heart School, Jamshedpur, (7) Loyola School, Jamshedpur, (8) Loyola Project School, Jamshedpur, (9) Carmel School, Sonari, (10) Amar Jyoti School, Pardih, (11) Little Flower School, Telco and !(12) St. Thomas School, Gandedungri. The winners were: First : Little Flower School, Telco, Second – St. Joseph’s School, Golmuri and Third , Gyan Deep Vidyalaya, Birsanagar. The awards of 1^st,2^nd and 3^rd were presented by the Chief Guest, the Merit Certificates by Mr. Peter Bonnerjee, and  Participation Certificates by Sr. Hilda D’Souza, Principal, Little Flower School, Telco. All the 6 rounds of the quiz were flashed on the screen with an LCD Projector operated by Fr. Michael Raj. The Bible Quiz was prepared by Frs. Vijay Kachhap, S.J., Amatus Kujur and Michael Raj. Mr. Ephrem Kispotta conducted the competition with perfect order and precision. Congratulations to the Cathedral Parish Council for the Golden Jubilee gift for the children of the town. (Michael Raj).

 

HOLY FAMILY CHURCH, KUMARDHUBI: The feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary was celebrated in the parish with much devotion and fervor this year. Fr. Paulus Bodra, the Parish Priest hoisted the flag signaling the feast on august 29. Fr. Raphael Lakra, S.J. was the Chief Celebrant of the Solemn Mass on September 07 at 5.30 p.m. in the Church. The faithful assembled at the Church at 4.30 p.m. and went out with the statue of Mother Mary in a devotional procession through the market. The Church and Campus was beautifully decorated well by the members of the parish Council for the feast. Congratulations to Frs. Paulus Bodra, Edward Saldanha , Sisters , Parish Council Members and all the Parishioners of Kumardhubi.

The 51^st birthday of Fr. Edward Saldanha was celebrated on September 21. The Loyola English School had a special celebration on the 19^th with felicitation programme. The Hindi had the privilege to celebrate on the 20^th, Saturday. The parishioners felicitated Fr. Edward on Sunday after the Mass. The Sisters of the Deanery assembled in the School Hall at noon for the celebration and the clergy came together in the evening. (Paulus Bodra)

 

ST. JOSEPH’S WELFARE CENTRE, GOLMURI: The Governing Body of SJWC met in the conference room on September 21 at 6.00 p.m. to discuss on the various programme that the center has under taken. It also gave a thought to begin a ‘Community College’ at the center. The board members constituted a committee to study the facilities available and the requirements needed for the college.

The 22^nd National Karate Championship Competition was held in Welfare Centre hall from 21^st to 24^th September 2008. Fr.Michael Raj was the Chief Guest for the inaugural ceremony on the 1^st day. Mrs. Suman Mahto, MP was the Chief Guest for the concluding ceremony. The participants were from 29 States and Union Territories. Madhya Pradesh won the championship and Jharkhand got the second place. This tournament was organized by the Jharkhand Karate Association. Black-belts were awarded to Frs. Amatus and Michael as they are associated with Karate at SJWC!  

The Welfare Centre had the teachers’ day celebration on 8^th September and the Chief Editor of  Prabhat Khabar was the chief guest. The teachers and the Staff were honoured and felicitated on the occasion. (Michael Raj)

 
ST. XAVIER’S SCHOOL, PURULIA: Sunit Bhattacharya of Class VIII brought laurels to the school by winning first prize in  the  Block level  and then district level  seminar on the topic” Water Crisis, problems and remedies” at the Science Centre in Purulia. Then he went to participate in Kolkata in the state level seminar for schools and adjudged fourth in the order of merit. He was the youngest participant among  the students.
Tamsil Hussain and  Saurav Sinha of Class XI  bagged  the trophy and  Rs 5000 each  at the Inter school Quiz  Contest organized by the Rotary Club of Purulia  by  excelling  the best team out of  61 teams  from 12 schools.
The newly constituted Inter Act club has collected cash and kind for the flood victims of Bihar and Assam, the victims of Orissa violence.

The student Council and class XII under the dynamic leadership of our Head Boy Bidyut Biswas and Head Girl put up an excellent show in the hall on Teachers’ Day. The students sense of gratitude was well appreciated by teachers in such appellations as  “wonderfully staged , coordinated very mature performance”, spectacular, mind blowing, excellent  performance , darling children.”  The spectacular performance of our Head Boy and Head Girl  with the student council  tells that the important subject we teach in the school is not science, math, history or language . Important as they are, the most important thing we teach is responsibility and maturing into responsibility.
Principal Hilary attended the Principals’ Summit  based  on the  theme : Education without  boundaries: revolutionizing education through appropriate use of IT consisting of  300 Principals at the Park Hotel in Kolkata  well organized by  The Telegraph In Schools  on 20th September 08.The second term have already commenced from 22nd September  08 and the school will close  the Pujas on 4th October 08.( Hilary Lobo )

 

SACRED HEART SCHOOL,ADRA : Preparations were going on for at least a week ahead, though under very limited time by the children of Sacred Heart School to honour the Teachers on 5th September. Each Teacher was greeted at the main School gate by our Tenthers with a rose and a small Tilak on the forehead. We really felt we were a little off our feet with this gesture. At 8:00 a.m. All the teachers were taken in a procession to the stage with a Diya in the hand, a beautiful comparison made between the teacher and a light. Prayers were offered to God from the Bible, Bagwat Geeta and the Quran. The prayer service was solemn and we felt really blessed. The celebrations started with all the teachers cutting one big cake and sharing with one another, followed by a cultural program with some “One minute” games organized for the teachers.  At the end of the program, each teacher was greeted with a small bouquet and a beautiful gift. After a small break of 15 minutes we were challenged with a game of Throw ball by the Tenthers which ended in a draw as the children put up a tough fight. Students were sent home after the match. At 12 noon we were taken for lunch to a room beautifully arranged with tables set for four. This was a real surprise and it made us feel really special. The meal was sumptuous and delicious. The person behind all our surprises was none other than our Principal Fr. Sahaya Thason who along with the senior children took great care to see that every minute detail was not left out. We sincerely appreciate and thank them for the special touch they gave to 5th September. (Jackie)

 

ST. JOHN MARY VIANNEY CHURCH, DHOWATAND: Pastor, Fr. Edward Kongari moved into his new residence on September 23 in the company of Fr. Manu Horo and hosted a ‘House warming’ celebration on the 24^th. The Clergy of the Deanery gathered to congratulate Fr. Edward to know facilities he may require to set the house in good order.. The major supports came from : DSWC, Govindpur, St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad; DNS, Digwadih; Holy family Church and Loyola School, Kumardhubi; Sacred Heart Church and School, Adra; St. Mary’s Church and St. Mary’s English School, Bistupur, MC Sisters, Dhanbad. Fr. Edward is hopeful that many more donors will come to his surprise.

Fr. Manu Horo addressed the parishioners on the 24^th on ‘Santhal Colloquim’ and it was attended by 24 leaders of the parish. (Edward)

 

N A T I O N A L - I N T E R NA T I O N A L  R O U N D – U P S:

 
MORNING STAR COLLEGE, BARRACKPORE :The month of September was very eventful. The month began with week-long Annual Retreat from 1st to 6th September. One of these six days of spiritual awakening was dedicated to fast and penance to express our solidarity with our suffering brothers and sisters in Orissa and a few other parts of the country. The Nativity of our Blessed Virgin Mary, the Patroness of our Seminary, was celebrated with a deep sense of religious fervor on 8th September. This day was also celebrated as our Community Day and on this day various ministries were conferred on us. The 4th Year Theologians were admitted to candidacy for Diaconate and Priesthood, the 3rd Year Theologians were conferred with the ministry of Acolyte and the 2nd Year with the ministry of Lector. The 3rd Year Philosophers were given Clerical Habits. The visit of our Bishop on 14th to 16th September brought in joy for all of us here.  As the Puja holidays are closing in, the streets of Kolkata have already begun to wear a festive look. As the attack on Christians is on the rise and is threatening to spread all over, the atmosphere in our seminary is very grim. We pray that Lord shows us the way.(Anthony Felix) 

 

ST. ALBERT’S COLLEGE, RANCHI: We had lots of activities in the month of September. On the eve of 1st of September, the Albertine family kept vigil in honour of the Martyres of Karondabera and prayed for them. When whole country celebrated the teacher’s day, we celebrated the feast in honour of Blessed Teresa of Kolkota. Bengal region brothers and sisters took the lead in the celebration. Mother reminded us, “Love begins in the family. Peace begins in the family where there is love, unity and joy.” We joined an all-religion prayer meeting organized by the All Churches Committee, Ranchi at Loyola ground on 7th of September to show our solidarity with the suffering brethren of Orissa and Bihar. His Eminance Telesphore P. Cardinal Toppo was the chief guest of the prayer meeting. He said, “All must keep in mind the tradition of Mother India and must follow the path of truth and non-violence.” The Vice-president, C.R.Prabhu said, “the hate campaign harmed not only Orissa but also affected communal harmony through out the country.” The leaders of different religions condemned the attack. The 69th Birthday of C.R.Prabhu was celebrated on 11th of September with a solemn Eucharist followed by a short felicitation programme.  The same day Karam was celebrated. Br. Ranjit Kullu was the Pahan and cut the Karam branch for the celebration.

 There was a protest rally organized by all churches committee, to condemn the Orissa attack demanding peace, justice and president rule in Orissa. A human chain was organized from Ambedkar Statue Doranda (who represent minorities and law) to Gandhi statue (who represent non-violence and peace)  in Moradabadi ground. It was a great success. Cardinal and Mrs. Rama Xalxo, the Mayor of Ranchi were the were the chief dignitaries in it.  As a mark of our solidarity with the suffering brethren, we have canceled our annual picnic. And everyday we pray for the suffering Church of India.
On 19, 20,21 final Year Philosophers enacted a Hindi Drama “Dahej Ki Deevaar”, a social drama. Br. George Ekka acted as a girl and looked very beautiful. The drama was a grand success. Kudos to the philosophers.

 
We celebrated our Gurukul Divas on 22nd of September. the day began with the solemn mass  followed by the felicitation of the gurus. Fr. Rector gave a beautiful homily on the occasion. Deacon Raju Crasta was the Master of the Ceremony
(George Ekka)

 

LOYOLA SCHOOL, KUMARDHUBI: On 31^st July, 2088 at the Loyola Auditorium, it was time again to meet and honour the school Patron Saint, St. Ignatius of Loyola. His life story introduces us every yer to the indomitable human spirit that refuses to ‘give up’ and says ‘sacrifice for others’. This year was no different. The prayer Service and Cultural programme highlighted his work and teachings. The school was honoured to have Rev. Fr. Jerome Pereira as the Chief Guest on the occasion.

The Loyolians celebrated Independence Day in full patriotic mood on 15^th August. It began with the flag hoisting and the singing of the National Anthem. This was followed by the March-past. Dr. D. Banerjee, the Chief Guest addressed the students and teachers assembled. The students’ representative delivered a thought provoking speech. A colourful dance and many patriotic songs were presented by the Hindi School students.

The Council Members put their best foot forward to make the Teacher’s Day a very memorable one for all. They conducted a Prayer Service and followed by a fun-frolic cultural programme. The masterminds were undoubtedly our Principal Fr. Edward Saldanha and Vice Principal, Sr. Jossy. (Rita Sen)

 

DOZING AT DAY TIME ? BEWARE OF STROKE ! Regular unintentional dozing may be an early warning sign of stroke in elderly people, say researchers at Columbia University, New York. Their study found that those who habitually dozed off were more vulnerable to stroke than those who never fell asleep in the day.

The research team advised doctors at the International Stroke Conference of the American Stroke Association to check out older people found dropping off in front of the TV. The study monitored for over two years the health of 2153 people with an average age of 73 years while they were watching TV, sitting and talking to someone, sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol and stopping briefly in traffic while driving.

The researchers allowed for various risk factors, including age, ethnicity, sex, education, blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and low physical activity. (Health)

 

PLASTIC BOTTLES WASHED IN HOT WATER MAY BE HARMFUL: Can sterilizing bottles in hot water be harmful? A researcher and his colleagues at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio have found that polycarbonate plastic bottles release up to 55 times more bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental estrogen, after they’ve been washed in boiling water. BPA is a man-made chemical classified as endrocrine disrupter, which alters the function of the endocrine system. The chemical is widely used in reusable water bottles, food can linings, water pipes, dental sealants etc. Previous studies have shown that if you repeatedly scrub, dish-wash and boil polycarbonate baby bottles, they release BPA. That tells us that BPA can migrate from various polycarbonate plastics, explains the research team, whose findings have been published in the journal Toxicology Letters. (Consumer).

 

FUND RECEIVED FOR THE ‘RELIEF WORK’ IN ORISSA/BIHAR/ASSAM FROM THE INSTITUTIONS AND PARISHES:

 

	Names of the institutions	Amount
1	St. Joseph's Hospital, Bhilai Pahari	1,310.00
2	Amar Jyoti School, Mango	6,000.00
3	Maria Sadan, Tundi	2,500.00
4	St. Francis De Sales School, Seraikela	10,000.00
5	Nirmala Ashram, Govindpur	600.00
6	SSH Provincial House, Mango	5,000.00
7	St. Joseph's School, Golmuri	5,000.00
8	St. Joseph's Convent, Golmuri	1,000.00
9	Little Flower Convent, Telco	5,000.00
10	Disciples of Divine Savior, Golmuri	500.00
11	Christ the King Church, Chakradharpur	24,050.00
12	Jeevan Jyoti, Telco	27,100.00
13	Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Telco	7,025.00
14	St. Anthony's School, Dhanbad	14,000.00
15	St. Robert's School, Parsudih	15,065.00
16	Sacred Heart Convent School, Bistupur	1,48,250.00
17	Prem Niketan Society, C/o Sacred Heart Convent, Bistupur	10,000.00
18	Association of Sacred Heart Alumni, Bistupur	5,000.00
19	Catholic Ashram, Purulia	4,000.00
20	Loyola Academy, Jilling	6,600.00
21	Loyola School, Jamshedpur	92,000.00
22	St. Joseph's Convent High School, Mosaboni	15,000.00
23	Pratiksha, Neeldungri, Sundernagar	2,500.00
24	St. Mary's English High School, Bistupur	25,377.00
25	St. Xavier’s School, Tundi	5,500.00
26	Cheshire Home, Sundernagar	3,000.00
27	Cluny Preparatory School, Birsanagar	64483.00
28	St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad	30,747.00
	Total  as of 27.09.08	3,88,357.00

 

All the Parishes and Institutions are requested to come forward and extend help to the victims of the tragic events in our country. We have already dispatched one truckload of relief materials to Muzaffarpur. (Diocesan Treasurer)

 

Violence erupts in trouble-Torn Kandhamal:: Fresh spate of violence erupted in the trouble torn Kandhamal district today with unidentified men torching several houses and hurling crude country made bombs killing one Raghab Digal and injuring at least three others at villages of Raikia and Tikabali police station areas.The district which has been virtually on fire for over a month now witnessed escalation of violence since yesterday even as chief minister Mr Naveen Patnaik and top officers of the home department continued to state for the umpteenth time that situation was under control and efforts are being made to restore calm.

Persisting with the routine of seeking more central forces after each spell of violence the state government today sought 10 more companies of para-military forces.

Chief minister Mr Naveen Patnaik held yet another review meeting at the state secretariat before declaring “the administration is controlling the situation, every effort is being made to maintain law and order and the centre has been asked to send 10 more companies of para-military forces”.

He informed that police reinforcements were being sent to the district. Mr Patnaik appealed to the people to maintain peace and harmony.

The DGP Mr Gopal Nanda informed that seven more companies are being rushed to Kandhamal district. Presently there are 26 companies of para military forces and three companies of Rapid Action Force.

 
The government was jolted into action following violent incidents since last night including an instance of a ex-army man reportedly went missing after he had fired two rounds at a tribal mob. Today five houses at Sisapanga village under Raikia police limits were set ablaze. The goons reportedly hurled a bomb in which two people sustained injuries. Another police report revealed that miscreants damaged 55 houses in Beheragam under Tikabali police station and 12 houses in Badapanga village under Sikaketa GP in Daringbadi police limit last night.

Two people in Beheragam incident have been injured and hospitalized , police sources said. The daily market in some places in Raikia, G Udayagiri and Tikabali  was closed since the day of Raikia police firing due to tribal unrest. Road communication to various areas of the district were cut off as tribals felled trees and put boulders preventing movement of police and para military forces. Communication has completely been disrupted in seven routes as the miscreants have blockade the roads at least 35 points by feeling trees and putting boulders including Phulbani-Berhampur road.

 
Police teams engaged in clearing the roads were attacked near Gosaguda. Miscreants indulged in brick batting the police who retaliated by firing in the air. Movement of officials and police force has been hit badly admitted the district collector Dr Krishan Kumar. In the incidents that had taken place yesterday, a tribal mob confronted an ex-army man at Damiguda village. The person fired two rounds which irked the tribal people who chased him to the nearby forests.

The ex-army man is still to be traced said Tikabali police sources today.  Some business man of Gochhapara 36 km from here have left their houses out of panic when some miscreants forcibly took bags of rice, dal and other ration. When they went to lodge FIR in this regard, the police allegedly did not accept the same, they said.

Meanwhile, the Orissa Government today clamped curfew in sensitive areas in the tribal district.(cbcisite)

 

BACK