JAMSHEDPUR DIOCESE

 

 

Happy is the man who trusts in the Lord,

Whose hope is the Lord.

He is like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream;

It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green;

In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit.

God cares for all the needs of those who follow him.

Lord, God of hosts, happy is the man who trusts in you. (Jeremiah 17: 7-8)

 

SAINT ALPHONSA: Alphonsa (Annakutty) was born on 19 August 1910 as the daughter of Muttathupadathu Joseph and Mariam, in the village of Kudamaloor, Kerala. She was called Annakutty at home. On the 37^th day of her birth, mother died. Annakuty, then, was in the care of her maternal aunt, Annamma. She received First Holy Communion when she was seven years old. When she completed 7^th class from Mutuchira Government School, she was 13. When she came to know that her Aunt was making preparations to get her married early, Annakutty was sad. Although she did not reveal her desire to become a nun even to her aunt, she prayed earnestly for the fulfillment of her wish. At the age of 17, in 1927, she joined the Franciscan Clarist Convent at Bharananganam. The next year she was given the veil of the Order and took the name Alphonsa. On 19 May 19930 , she took the religious vows. By then she had become a victim of chronic illness. She started her official life as a teacher in Vakakkad school.  As a teacher, she was an exemplary model for others. But her illness became more intense, she returned to the convent after one year of teaching. Thereafter, her life was one of pain, suffering and contemptuous indifference by others. She never complained and for 16 years she was mostly bedridden. On 28 July 1946 she was called for her eternal reward. Her death was not much published, just like her life. On 08 February 1986, she was declared ‘Blessed’ by Pope Paul VI. Pope Benedict XVI canonized her on October 12, 2008 at Vatican. 

 

ENGAGEMENTS OF BISHOP FELIX TOPPO, S.J. – NOVEMBER, 2008
Date	Day	Time		Place
02	Sun		Bishop’s House	Golmuri
04-07	Tu-Fr		Seminar on Evangelization at SDC	Ranchi
08	Sat	8.00 a.m	Feast of Our Lady of Khuntpani	Khuntpani
11	Tue	10.30 a.m	Fr. Alfie Be, Vatican Radio	Jsr.
16	Sun		Confirmation , St. Mary’s Church	Bistupur
23	Sun	9.00 a.m	Christ the King Mass/Procession	Telco
25-28	Tu-Fr		RBC-CRI Meeting	Patna
29-30	Sa-Su		Visitation of Seminarians , SMS, Chakaram	Patna

D I O C E S A N - R O U N D – U P !

 

ST. THERESA’S CHURCH, SINDRI: The feast of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, the Parish Day was celebrated on October 02. Fr. George Manna presided at the concelebrated Eucharist in the Parish Hall at 10.00 a.m. Frs. Cyprian Lobo, Vijay Kachhap, S.J., Linus Kindo, Junas Purty, Pradeep Marandi, K.C. Anthony, S.J. and Sylverius Lugun,S.J were the concelebrants. The celebrants were led to the altar by a group of children in prayer dance and Fr. Robert Toppo, the Parish Priest introduced the Priests to the faithful.

The choir sang melodious and devotional hymns during the liturgy. The children in dance attire led the Bible procession as well as offertory gifts. One girl received ‘First Communion’ during the Mass.

After the Mass the parishioners felicitated the celebrants and Fr. Cyprian Lobo responded with a touching message basing the life of St. Theresa to do little things in the spirit of humility and love.(Vijay)

 

CHRIST THE KING PARISH, CHAKRADHARPUR: The Chaibasa Deanery ‘Krus Vir’ rally was held at the Carmel School from the 2^nd to 4^th. Fr. Bipin Pani, the Parish Priest inaugurated the rally on the 2^nd and Fr. George Manna presided at the concluding Eucharist on the 4^th at 11.00 a.m. Fr. Vijay Kachhap, S.J. and Fr. Bipin Pani concelebrated. 765 boys and girls actively participated in the programme. During the camp various competitions were conducted. Fr. Eugene Ekka, Sr. Michael and Fr. Camille Hembrom were the resource persons. Prizes were presented at the concluding gathering to all the winners. Sr. Michael OSU thanked the Guests and all the people who made the ‘Krus Vir’ rally a grand success. All the children were gifted with a copy of the ‘Children’s Hindi Bible’ donated by Fr. Vijay Kachhap, S.J.

Pastor, Fr. Bipin Pani celebrated his 46^th birthday on October 14. The day began with a special Mass in the church in the morning. The hostel children held a function to felicitate Fr. Bipin later in the morning. The clergy and religious of the deanery assembled in the evening at the Presbytery to shower God’s blessings on Bipin and to share a sumptuous meal prepared by Fr. Jondoko and team. (Sanjay)

 

ST. ANTONY’S CHURCH, KUTKUDUNGRI: On October 05, 2008 Navakhani feast was celebrated in a grand scale at Kutkudungri Parish. Mahila Sangh and Youth played a major role in this joyous occasion. There was a solemn Eucharistic Celebration in the morning at 6.00. Entrance dance was performed by the women and they were carrying on their heads the earthen pots full of wheat sprouts escorted the Priests into the Church. Fr. Linus Kindo was the Main Celebrant while Frs. Anand Praksh Toppo, Anselm Dungdung, Seraphim, and Boniface Kujur concelebrated. Little girls from different schools gave a beautiful offertory dance and offered the first fruits to the Lord. The choir sang very melodious and devotional hymns. The choir was prepared by Mrs. Kiran Toppo, Fr. Seraphim and Fr. Boniface. After the Mass the Mahila Sangh distributed Jagari and beaten rice among the parishioners as part of Navakhani celebration. It was a joyful day for the parishioners of Kutkudungri.   In the same evening at 7.30 p.m. the Capuchins hosted a special meal for the Clergy of the Parish and Bishop’s House Community to celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi as well as ‘Navakhani’. (Boniface Kujur)

 

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHEDRAL, GOLMURI: The year long Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Cathedral concluded during the solemn Mass presided over by Fr. George Manna on Sunday, October 05 at 7.30 a.m. Faithful from all the mass centers were present for the historic event. The celebrants were led to the church by the girls’ from St. Joseph’s School in prayer dance. The choir was superb and the hymns and songs instilled in everyone the spirit of prayer. Frs. Amatus Kujur, David Vincent, Harixson, OP, Alphonse, OP and Vijay Kachhap, S.J. were the concelebrants. Soon after the Mass all assembled in the forecourt of the Bishop’s House and shared tea and biscuits. Thus the Golden Jubilee of the Cathedral Church came to a grand finale. Congratulations of the Fathers, Sisters, Parish Council members for the faith filled concluding celebration of the Golden Jubilee Year. Fr. Michael Raj went to Bilaspur for his annual retreat on October 04 and returned on the 12^th.

Marriage preparation classes were held at St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre from October 03-05 and there were 17 participants. Fr. James Quadros was the resource person.

The Parish had a special Mass at the Canonization of Blessed Alphonsa on October 12 at 7.30 a.m.in the Cathedral. Fr. George Manna was the Chief Celebrant. Frs. Michael Raj and David Vincent concelebrated. Mr. Peter Bonnerjee, the Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council took special initiative to celebrate the day meaningfully. After the Mass, he presented every one sweets blessed after the Mass in front of the picture of St. Alphonsa.

Mr. A.J. Bhengra, the Area Leader of Sitaramdera was given a fond farewell by the Parish Clergy and Area Leaders on October 24 at 6.00 p.m.in the Welfare Centre Hall. Mr. Alois Bhengra served the Parish as an Area Leader for 32 years and helped the people in every possible way. He was honoured with special mementos and gifts. The programme ended with High Tea and snacks. Congratulations to Mr. A.J. Bhengra & family for the meritorious service for the welfare of the Cathedral Parish.(Michael Raj)

 

ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL, BHILAI PAHARI: The combined birthday celebrations of Srs. Anasthasia, JMJ (03/10) and Mary, JMJ (04/10) began on the proper day in the hospital with the staff and finally at the convent on the 4^th evening. Bishop’s House community and the JMJ Sisters from Telco were the special guests for the evening meal.

Msr. John Bodra is enjoying the company of the Hospital Staff, Kripa Sadan brothers-Fathers and the JMJ Sisters.  He has attendants for 24 hours and many visitors travel to meet him in the hospital. He is in good cheers.

The village children gather under the tree for the evening classes regularly and Sr. Rajeswari with the help of the hospital staff conducts the classes. Work has started to construct classrooms to conduct classes for these children of the neighbourhood. (Vernon)

 

 

GLOBAL PEACE FORUM, JAMSHEDPUR: Many eminent like-minded citizens of Jamshedpur formed this forum and organized an‘All-faith candle light peace gathering’ on October 02 at 6.00 p.m at the Triangular Park in Bistupur. More than one thousand people assembled for the prayer programme including Mr. Russi Mody, the former MD of Tata Steel. Some of the religious heads shared their anxiety on what happened in Orissa, Assam , Karnataka, Maharastra and Jharkhand. All the speakers opinioned and urged everyone to stand united so as to establish peace all over the country. Fr. Amatus Kujur is the convener of the forum.(David)

 

BISHOP’S HOUSE, GOLMURI: Fr. Gyan arrived in Jamshedpur on September 29 by the Geetanjali Express. He took couple of days rest and went off to Chennai and Nagapattanam. He spent a week at home in Anandpur with his family members and friends. He left Bishop’s House, Jamshedpur on October 28 p.m. in the company Fr. Ajay Tiru to catch the flight for Canada. Fr. Gyan reached safe in his parish at Gatineau on the 30^th and Fr. Ajay returned to BH by the Kingfisher on the 29th.

Mrs. Leen Luca reached Bishop’s House on the 29^th of September and visited some of the parishes, such as : Parsudih, Telco, St. Mary’s, Bistupur, Toklo, Siadih, Chandil and many institutions in Dhanbad Deanery while residing at the Mother Teresa Niwas.

Msgr. John Bodra showed signs of improvement for a few days and then on the downward order. He is having attendants for 24 hours and the Staff/ Sisters are monitoring his health condition day and night. Many visitors came and saw Msgr. as well as the hospital campus. On Saturday, October 25, he was shifted to Mercy with breathing problem and increase in uric acid. He is anxious to be back at Bhilai Pahari.

Bro. Sameer Soreng got admitted to Mercy Hospital on October 17 and underwent a surgery for appendicitis on October 21. He is resting at MTN before taking a ride to Hatikunder.

 

WELCOME TO THE PRIESTS FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CUTTACK-BHUBANESWAR:  Jamshedpur Diocese invited the 22 Priests from Kandhmal district of Orrissa attending a program at XLRI to the Bishop’s House on October 16. The guests arrived at the Curia Hall at 5.30 p.m. and the town clergy and religious were waiting for them . It was a session of interaction with the Priests from Orissa who were victims of the violence that shook the country recently. Four of the Priests working in Kandhmal addressed the gathering on the happenings of atrocities against the Christians and their state of affairs at present. The sessions were moderated by Frs. Augustine Ezhakunnel S.J. and Joe Surin,S.J. Fr. George Manna welcomed the guests and Fr. Augustine Ezhakunnel, S.J. read  2 passages from the Bible and led the assembly to prayer. The hall was packed with Clergy and Religious from the town areas. There were many clarifications as well as thoughtful suggestions. The Priests from Kandhmal were happy that Jamshedpur Diocese welcomed them to Jamshedpur and were really interested to know the reality of the happenings in Orissa. There were 108 clergymen and religious listening the narration and showing their support to the suffering brethren. All shared a sumptuous meal in the forecourt of the Curia building prepared by Frs. David, Vijay Kachhap, S.J. and team at 7.45 p.m and bid farewell to the guests.. 

 

MOTHER TERESA PARISH, SIADIH:  Pastor, Fr. Michael Jojo was  on duty during the puja vacation coaching the school/hostel children for the ‘Munna-Munni’ Foot Ball match  held in Chaibasa from October 22-25. The boys and girls really had an enjoyable time at Chaibasa. The girls’ team won the first prize while the boys’ had to content with the third prize. After the Matches and prize distribution ceremony, the group returned home singing and dancing with joy. Congratulations to Fr. Michael Jojo and Alwyn for coaching and guiding the children to the grand victory.

Fr. Michael Jojo rushed home on October 27 hearing the sudden demise of his beloved mother. Our prayers are for her and for all the members of the family. May the Good Lord bless her with Eternal Peace and Joy. Condolence to Fr. Michael Jojo.(Alwyn.C.V.)

 

 

ST. THERESA’S CHURCH, JHINKPANI: The feast of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, the Parish Day was celebrated on October 01. Fr. James Surin presided at the solemn Mass at 8.00 a.m. in the School Hall. After the Mass, the parishioners, hostel and school children had various cultural programs performed on the stage and they felicitated the Fathers, Sisters and Guests The clergy and religious of the deanery were invited for a special meal on September 28 noon and celebrated the feast in advance.

Fr. Edwin Coelho celebrated his 59^th birthday on October 04 in a very simple way as the hostel children and the Sisters were out of the campus for Puja vacation. Even then he had couple of guests to keep company for the Pastor’s birthday. It was an opportunity for him to complete some of the pending maintenance jobs of the school as well as the residence. (Edwin)

SACRED HEART CHURCH, ADRA : Fr. Jerome came to Jamshedpur to witness the engagement of Miss Sarla on October 06 in the company of Fr. Edward Saldanha at Telco. The Parish had many visitors during the month.  A fete named “Jyoti-Mela” will be organized in the 2^nd week of November at the Church campus to raise funds for the Church. The Parish Council Members as well as the other Parish organizations are work to make the Jyoti mela a grand success. This year many fruit trees and other trees are planted to beautify the garden.

The visit of Mrs. Leen Luca, Frs. David Vincent and Roque Cardoza on October 9-10 was indeed a surprise and blessing for the parish community. The group left on the 10^th morning for Jamshedpur via Catholic Ashram, Purulia. Fr. Jerome joined the Retreat at jesu Bhawan from October 19-24 preached by Fr. Gilbert Menezes, S.J.

The parish celebrated Mission Sunday with great joy and enthusiasm on October 19. The members of the Parish  Mahila Sangh offered breakfast to all and the proceeds will be for the Missions.  (Jerome)

 

ST. JOHN MARY VIANNEY CHURCH, DHOWATAND: Pastor, Fr. Edward Kongari is well settled at the campus in the company of Catechist, Mr. Augustine Horo and the cook. The campus is greener and beautiful with the fruit trees growing well. Fr. David Vincent, the Diocesan Treasurer donated a TV for Vianney Bhawan on October 08  when he visited us in the company of Mrs. Leen Luca and Fr. Roque Cardoza . We are grateful to the Lord for the many generous visitors and blessings through them for Dhowatand.

The catholic children who will be receiving ‘First Communion’ this year had five days of ‘Catechism Camp’ at the presbytery from October 02-06. Twenty children took part and are promoted for the ‘First Communion’ in the month of December together with the ‘Christmas Milan’ programme. Catechists Rupalal and Nandlal were the resource persons. The campers had brought along sufficient eatable items for all the days of their stay with us. Congratulations to the Catechists and the members of the Parish Council. The mission Sunday celebrations were grand and each family contributed Rs. 20.00 for the missions.  (Edward Kongari)

 

ST. XAVIER’S ENGGLISH SCHOOL, CHAKRADHARPUR: Science and Craft exhibition was organized at St. Xavier’s English School Chakradharpur from 26 to 28 Oct. 2008 where all the students of school participated with their latest high-tech models and beautiful crafts. The exhibition was inaugurated by Mr. J.J Suman SDM. of Chakradharpur, The other dignitaries of railways and civil administration were also present for the inaugural function in big number. The exhibition was open for the interested local public and the school children of Charkradharpur for two days. It was well appreciated by the parents and other school children who visited .The students of St.  Xavier’s collected money and one truck load of clothes for flood victims of Bihar and transported through the local administration.(Eugene)

 

 

ST. MARY’ ENGLISH SCHOOL, BISTUPUR:  The CBSE EAST ZONE HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIP-2008 was organized by St. Mary’s English School at the JRD TATA SPORTS COMPLEX, JAMSHEDPUR from October 14-17. Mrs. Suman Mahato, M.P, Jamshedpur inaugurated the Championship on the 14^th at 10.00 a.m. Mr. Sitaram Bari, DDC, East Singhbhum was the Chief Guest at the closing ceremony on October 17 at 3.00 p.m. at the JRD Complex. St. Mary’s English School was adjudged the overall champion and won the championship trophy. During the ceremony the school children presented a colourful dance and mesmerized the audience. Principal, Fr. Gerry D”Souza welcomed the Guests and Sr. Christi proposed the vote of thanks. Congratulations to the Principals, Staff and Students of St. Mary’s English School for organizing the championship efficiently and in good cheer.

 

OUR LADY OF LUPITA CHURCH, TELCO: The parish celebrated ‘First Communion’  on October 19. The solemn Mass was presided over by the Parish Priest, Fr. Vijay Bhat at 7.00 a.m. in the Church. Fr. Raphael Monterio, the Assistant Parish Priest, Fr. Leo D’Souza, Fr. Harixion, OP and Fr. James Quadros were the concelebrants. The multi-lingual choir rendered beautiful hymns during the liturgy. After the Mass the First Communicants were felicitated with gifts and snacks in the hall. Congratulations to the Parish Priest,  Cluny Sisters and Members of the Parish Council for the faith filled celebration.

The Parish Council members are at work to organize Christ the King Eucharistic procession for the Deanery on November 23 in the Parish.

 
 ST. MARY’S CHURCH, N. ROAD: During the month of October there were many eminent visitors including the Mr. Dulal Bhuinyan, the Land and Revenue Minister, the SP and many other officials to the campus regarding the desecration/theft on the night of September 23. The Policemen claim that they have arrested couple of people involved but so far none of the stolen materials have been recovered. Pastor, Fr. Joy Paul has arranged security guards for the nights.

The feast of ‘Navakhani’ was celebrated in the Parish on October 26 during the 7.15 a.m. Mass, Fr. Amatus Kujur, Dean presided at the solemn Mass in the Church. The parishioners offered fruits and grains during the Mass.

 

ST. ANTHONY’S CHURCH, DHANBAD: The parish had a special celebration of the Mission Sunday on October 19. The Parish Council had arranged breakfast for all after the Mass in the campus “ buy and share’ basis. It was indeed a wonderful sharing and meeting with one another on Mission Sunday.

 

ST. ROBERT’S CHURCH, PARSUDIH: The Parishioners had a Charismatic retreat from October 3-7 in the Parish Church conducted by the Divine Light team from Kolkata. More than 140 parishioners took part in the retreat which was from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon and from 3.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Congratulations to Fr. Henry Sequeira, the Parish Priest and Parish Council Members. Many experienced the healing touch of the Lord during the retreat.

 The 41^st birthday of Fr. Puthumai Raj was celebrated on October 23. The day began with a solemn Mass with the Staff and Students of the School in the Church at 7.30 a.m. This was followed by a felicitation programme in the school hall. The clergy and religious of the neighbouring communities numbering 30+ assembled in the evening at the Presbytery to wish Puthumai every blessing and to share a sumptuous meal. Fr. Edward Kongari offered the prayer of grace. Prior to the meal Fr. Puthuai cut 2 cakes to give a start for the celebration.(Henry)

 

ICYM YOUTH LEADERS MEET : A meeting of the ICYM Youth Leaders was held at the Curia Hall, Bishop’s House on October 19. There were 53 Youth leaders from the many parishes and Units for the halfday programme. Mrs. Leen Luca, a social worker from Belgium inaugurated the programme and encouraged the Youth to be effective leaders in the society. Fr. James Quadros, Parish Priest, Jisu Marsal Parish, Chandil gave input on the role of a Youth Leader to make the Church vibrant with the Gospel values. Fr. Sanjay Kujur, C.Ss.R encouraged the Youth to come forward to  give genuine leadership in the family as well as in the society.

During the concluding session the Youth unanimously decided to arrange financial and material support for the victims of Orissa violence. Plans are on to have a “Bumper Hamper”. Fr. Vijay Kachhap,S.J., Diocesan Youth Director,  Mr. Richard Sarky, Youth Coordinator and Miss Kiran Toppo, Youth President were present for the sessions. (Richard Sarky)

 

JAMSHEDPUR DIOCESAN CHARISMATIC CORE TEAM: The group met at the Bishop’s House on October 05 and Fr. Camille Hembrom, the President, chaired the meeting. The core team decided to participate at the National Hindi Convention  in Delhi from October 08-12. It was a great experience for the 13 members who went for the Convention and returned with renewed spirit and enthusiasm.

The Charismatic prayers held at St. Anthony’s Church, Kutkudungri is shifted to the Bishop’s House, Golmuri for the time being due to various reasons. The Core team is hopeful that they will have a center of its own and more Priests, Religious and Laity will profit by their presence and active participation.

 

MERCY CHAPEL, BARIDIH: ‘NAVAKHANI’ was celebrated at the Mercy Chapel on October 26 and Fr. Alphonse Jojo, OP was the Chief Celebrant for the solemn Mass. The community offered fruits, vegetables and beaten rice during the offertory and the same was blessed and distributed at the end of the Mass. Faithful from other Mass Centres joined for the celebration though the weather was inclement with slight drizzles.

 

CHESHIRE HOME, SUNDERNAGAR: Sr. Matilda, DC celebrated her Silver Jubilee in Religious life on October 25.  Fr. George Manna presided at the Concelebrated Eucharist in the Hall at 6.00 p.m. Frs. Jerome Pereira, Vincent David, Mathew Channikuzhy, and Joe Anthony, S.J. were the concelebrants. It was also an occasion to honour other Silver Jubilarians of the Daughters of St. Vincent de Paul from Kolkata , Sr. Helen and Sr. Emerencia . The Cheshire Home inmates led the Celebrants, Jubilarians and Sisters  to the Altar by a prayer dance. Fr. John P.D conducted the choir rendering devotional hymns suiting to the occasion.

Soon after the Mass the assembly felicitated the Jubilarians with cultural items that continued for one hour. Sr. Matilda thanked everybody twice and invited all to share a sumptuous meal prepared for the occasion. Congratulations to Sr. Matilda and Sisters of Cheshire Home for the beautiful and faith filled celebration. 

 

ST. JOSEPH’S WELFARE CENTRE, GOLMURI: Fr. Edward Kongari, Dean of Dhanbad blessed and inaugurated the new computer lab and Director’s Office on October 20 at 9.00 a.m. in the presence of the Staff, Students, Fr. Amatus Kujur and Fr. Michael Raj. The new lab has 20 computers and the new computers are gifted by  the Telcon Company. Thanks to Mr. Peter Bonnerjee and the company authorities for their generosity. (Henry Sarky)

 

 

CATHOLIC ASHRAM, BALRAMPUR: The spoken English Elementary group has 50 students on the roll and Professor Fr. C. Lobo is busy in giving the basics of Spoken English. There are many working people in the group to learn the language and they are delighted to see a foreigner in their midst speaking many languages including Santhali and teaching them English. The construction work is progressing slowly and steadily. Contractor Mr. Zaffar Khan is seen rarely but the work continues. (Guna G. Soren)

 

SAMEKIT JAN VIKAS KENDRA, SUNDERNAGAR : The Catholic Charities/SJVK celebrated ‘DEEPAWALI’ on October 27 at 3.30 p.m. at the conference hall of Vikas Bharati.. It was an ‘All Religion Prayer Service”. Dr. Ranjit Chouwdary, Director of Ramakrisha Mission Schools and Mr. Dasmath Hansda, Sarna Religion, and 2 representatives from the Muslim community addressed the gathering with special message. Frs. George Manna and Halan Bodra gave Diwali messages. Frs. Edward Kongari, Roque Cardoza, Linus Kindo were present for the celebration.  The rogramme ended with tea and snacks. Congratulations to Frs. Halan, Johny P.D, the Sisters and staff for organizing a meaningful DEEPAWALI .

 

DIOCESAN HEALTH MINISTRY: Fr. Halan Bodra called an emergency meeting of the partners of the Diocesan Health Ministry Team at the Bishop’s House on October 29 from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.  There were 14 partners from the Districts of East & West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsan participating in the meeting. The members present unanimously agreed to support the ‘DOTS’ programme of the Government of Jharkhand. All the partners will register themselves to take up this particular programme for the local beneficiaries. The Meeting concluded with lunch with the Bishop’s House Community.(Halan)

 

PRABHU MARSAL PARISH, GOILKERA: One day Seminar was organized for the Parish Youth on October 11. Bro. Tony John, S.J. was the resource person. There were 25 youth taking active part in all the sessions. The next day, October 12, the Youth conducted football tournament for the various ‘Mandalis’ of the Parish and 8 teams took part. The winning teams were presented with beautiful statues of Our Lady. Parish Priest, Fr. Roque Cardoza gave away the awards. Fr. Pradeep Marandi attended the ‘School Administrators Course’ at Jesu Bhawan from October 05-10. Frs. Gautam, S.J. and Joe Saldanha, S.J. were the resource persons. The school took part in the ‘Munna-Munni’ football tournament at Chaibasa and won the Runner’s up Shield. (Roque)

 

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 !

 

PALLOTI INSTITUTE OF PHILOSOPHY & RELIGION, GOA: Loving greetings from Santhosh Cordeiro. I am keeping good health over here. Mukesh & I are well settled in Goa.

These days we are busy with philosophical studies. Life over here is circled with many activities. We are trying to cope up with academic activities of the institution & the other very many activities of the seminary as well. After prolonged hard efforts   2^nd year Brothers finished their scientific thesis & submitted on 15^th October. On 25^th September our first semester got over. For the 2^nd semester I have been elected as prefect of the first year students' .On 28^th Mukesh & I accompanied  Fr. Rector to receive Bishop from Goa airport. Bishop's visit brought great joy to casa pallotti community. He was very happy to see the administration of the institute. On 30^th he left for Rome to attend the synod.

At present we are 51 in which 37 Pallottains, 7 Norbertains, & diocesans. The Pallottines are doing M.A studies from Karnataka University. Here all modern facilities are provided for the better development of seminarian's academics and physical health. We are also nourished in spiritual health as well.

Our seminary has got paddy fields, so from 20^th on wards we will be harvesting. Our seminary & institution is located in a beautiful hilly area, about 12 kilometers away from capital city, Panjim, close to Anjuna beach where a foreign girl, Scarlet was murdered.          

We are privileged to be in a religious community to know about community life & to practice it. Fr. make an attempt to visit Goa. We will be looking forward to your coming. Please do remember us in your prayer. (Santhosh)

                                                                                                                              

FROM THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS, ROME:  Today is holiday for us as the drafting committee is working on the various propositions. I thought I will write some news which can be put in the News Letter and Meshpal.

The Synod of Bishops is deliberating on the "Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church".

 There are 254 Cardinals, Archbishops and Bishops for the Synod. Most of them are elected delegates, but there are some who are invited by the Holy Father. Some religious Superiors, experts, and some lay people also are invited. In total we are about 300 from India Cardinals Oswald and Varkey Vithayathil are not attending due to the health reasons. Those attending from India are seven Bishops, Fr. Fio Mascarenhas and a layman.
The Synod was inaugurated by the Holy Father Benedict XVI on Oct. 5, 2008 with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration in the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. A large number of laity also participated.

 The Synod proper began on the following day with the Key Note Address by Cardinal Qwellet of Quebec City, Canada. After that each Synod Father made a five minutes presentation on any topic taken from the "Instrumentum laboris. In the evenings we had one hour free intervention in common. There were simultaneous translations in English, German, Italian, Spanish and French.

In my intervention I spoke of the great need of Unity of all the Churches and I also suggested that Eastern and Western Churches should have the Easter on one day.
On October 12 during a solemn Eucharistic Celebration the Holy Father cannonized four persons as saints, including Blessed Alphonsa of Kerala, India. There were a large number of Indians present on the occasion in the Piazza del St. Pietro. During the homily the Holy Father spoke of the persecutions in India. On October 13 we were taken to the Basilica of St. Paul outside the Wall. Two years ago they discovered the tomb of St. Paul under the altar. They accept it with certainty that this is the tomb of St. Paul. Since then everyday about 5000 pilgrims come from all over the world.

After the presentation of the intervention we are meeting in small groups and making propositions which are brought in the general sessions. The drafting commeetee is working on these. Bp. Thomas Menamparampil is one of the drafting committee members. He has been called by the Pope as an expert in culture and evangelization.

On Oct. 17 on the 30 Death anniversary of Pope John Paul II we were shown the film on him. It was the first time that this film was shown. The film is excellent.

 
From tomorrow onwards we will be voting on the propositions and drafts. By Saturday the  draft will be more or less ready which will be submitted to the Holy Father who will make the final document based on it. That will take almost a year.

 
There are much prayers offered for the success of the Synod. Everyday before we begin the Synod we have prayers. One can see that the Holy Spirit is really working on each one of the synod participants. There is total openness to the Spirit. Every intervention , formal or informal, is taken seriously.

Holy Father comes for all the sessions except when he has other engagements like public audience ort meeting some state dignitaries, etc

On Thursday I am free and I will try to send some more news.

Yesterday I took Dileep to one Parish where my friend is PP. We had lunch there. Then in the evening I went to Gregorian University and met Joseph Xavier, Jacob Shrampickal, Fr. Prem, Fr. Linus Kujur (who has come from Ranchi as a visiting professor) and my professors. (+Felix Toppo, S.J.)                                                                                              

 

ST. ALBERT’S COLLEGE, RANCHI: We had a week of minor holidays at the end of September. The whole house was divided into six groups and had lots of competitions. At the end of the week we had a group outing, since we did not have house picnic this year. The whole minor holiday program was interesting and useful. On 1st of October there was a meeting of the rectors of minor seminaries of Bijhan and other dioceses. Frs. Vernon and Mathew were present for the same. On the second of October two delegates of Loyola foundation of USA visited SAC. They were accompanied by Fr. John Guidera SJ. In the evening we had a short ‘swagat’ and felicitation program for them. The Silver Jubilarians of the Batch 1983-84 arrived in their Alma Mater on 14th. We felicitated them on 15th evening. They had lots of sharing among themselves and also with us. Some of the theologians had the opportunity to take interviews. Telesphore Cardinal Toppo was the chief celebrant for the Mass on that morning. Seventeen priests including two deacons from the tragedy hit places of Kandmahal arrived SAC on 18th of this month. The whole religious of the neighboring houses flocked to SAC on that evening to hear them. They received consolation and felt one with us. Their sharing of traumatic experiences of divine providence really inspired us. On that day, Cardinal’s words still echo in our ears, “These incidents will be a turning point in the history of Indian Church.” The mission Sunday was celebrated with great pomp and gaiety on 19th of October at the Cathedral church. On this great day, we specially prayed for all the missionaries. The YSM/YCS ministry brothers along with the Youth of the Cathedral parish put up a “Mission Mela” in the Cathedral campus which was a big success as usual. Fr. Rector along with other priests and church leaders found busy in these days in dialogue and meetings with Sarna Adivasis on account of the problems created by Nemha Bible. Though the issue was settled, on 19th of October, there was a RSS sponsored Big Rally at Morabadi ground which accused the Christians for all the violence and indifference. ( Ranjit Kullu)

 

AFTER EXERCISE, GO FOR A COLD BATH: After a hard workout, game or round of golf, taking a bath in cold water may shorten the duration of muscle soreness, although it will not take the pain away.

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the muscle pain and loss of strength experienced after intense exercise or activity. For most people, spending a few days hobbling around is little more than a painful reminder of an earlier excursion. However, in athletes who are pushing their bodies to the limit, DOMS is a serious impediment to resuming effective training or participation at the highest level.

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra has had a long interest in identifying the most effective recovery for elite athletes. A cold bath may provide rapid pain relief, but its impact on performance is less clear. The alternative is either a warm bath or a strategy of switching between hot and cold baths. (Insight – The consumer Magazine, Jul_Augut,08)

FRESHEN YOUR BREATH: Forget fancy mouthwashes and mini-mints. Keep your mouth clean with healthy diet that will reduce the bacteria and plaque that cause bad breath.

Curd reduces plaque and gingivitis and stinky hydrogen sulphide. Eat plain curd and made with low-fat milk and no sugar. Pineapple contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme that acts as a natural cleanser. Munching on raw vegetables increases saliva production, which helps wash food articles and acid from teeth. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth moist. Chewing sugar-free gum also stimulates production of saliva. (RD, August,08)

MORNING STAR COLLEGE, BARRACKPORE: The Association of Christian Philosophers in India (ACPI) Conference got underway in Progoloy, Barasat, Kolkata, from 23rd October. This year Morning Star being the host, all our Teaching staff and the 3rd Year Philosophers are directly involved in the proceedings. The Conference comes to an end on Sunday 26th October. Much of the month of October was spent on writing our First terminal examinations, which came to a close on 22nd this month. Due to the examinations, the ‘Puja-Holidays’ went past without much excitement. There is sad news for this month: Mr. Mariadasan, the brother-in-law of Bro. Anthony Felix, passed away on 23rd October evening. Kindly pray for the repose of his soul and for the bereaved family. Nearing the close of the Month of October, the weather has already become colder. (Felix Anthony)

 

 

ST. CHARELS’ SEMINARY, NAGPUR:  We are all keeping well. After our Unit Tests we are busy with our Philosophy Exams. This is a new experience for us as the method  is totally different. Some Fathers take written exams while others oral or both written and oral. Our class performance are also taken into consideration.

On September 21, the Chotanagpur Brothers ands Sisters celebrated the feast of ‘KARMA’ . Fr. Pradeep Tirkey was the Chief Celebrant  at the solemn Mass held at the Cathedral at 11.00 a.m. The Church was filled with faithful. The Choir sang beautiful and devotional hymns during the Mass. The cultural programme was at St. Anthony’s Auditorium. It was an occasion for us to come together and share our experience. It was really a memorable day. We are expecting His Eminence Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo in our midst on October 25 to meet all the Chotanagpur brothers and Sisters. In the moth of November, we will be going to Panchamari for 3 days for our class picnic. (Fabian.Alex & Melwyn)

RELIEF FUND RECEIVED - OCTOBER,2008.

 

 

Sl.Nos.	Names of the institutions	Amount
01.	Mr. Bartho Gagrai	200.00
02.	St. Xavier’s Church, Chaibasa	2,000.00
03.	Mercy Convent, Baridih	10,000.00
04.	Cluny Preparatory School, Birsanagar	6,401.00
05.	St.Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad	30,247.00
06.	Little Flower School, Telco	4,412.00
07.	St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad	500.00
08.	Bishop’s House Community, Golmuri	12,730.00
09	Glorson R.B. Chalil, C/o St. Mary’s Church, N. Road	15,000.00
10	St. Mary’s Church, N. Road	14,510.00
11.	Nirmala Convent, Amda	1,000.00
12.	St. Thomas School, Gandedungri	6,485.00
13.	St. Mary’s English School, Raharghora	4,045.00
14.	Little Flower School, Telco	60,169.00
15.	Cluny Preparatory School, Birsanagar	36,494.00
16.	Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Lupita Hall, Telco	530.00
17.	St. Anthony’s Church, Kutkudungri, Mango	2,235.00
18	Sacred Heart Church, Adra	10,410.00
19	St. Paul’s Church and Hostel, Maluka	3,980.00
20.	St. Paul’s School, Maluka	1,020.00
21	Prabhu Marsal Church, Goilkera Parish	1,000.00
22.	St. Xavier’s School, Purulia	12,000.00
23.	St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih	14,876.00
24.	St. Mary’s Hindi School, Bistupur	5,500.00
25.	St. Xavier’s English School, Chaibasa	12,360.00
26.	St. Xavier’s Church, Chaibasa	10,000.00
27.	St. Michael’s Church, Burighora	840.00
28.	Mr. Desmond Hogg C/o Lupita Hall, Telco	10,000.00

 

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