Saturday, December 28, 2013

January, 2014

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP FELIX TOPPO, S.J.

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
First of all I pray for the blessings of Almighty God for the New Year on all the priests, religious and laity of the Diocese of Jamshedpur Diocese.

I would like to draw your attention that on December 18, 2013 the Diocese called for a meeting cum Christmas get-together for the Priests and Religious, the Heads of the Institutions and the Superiors of religious communities of the Diocese of Jamshedpur. The main theme was “Pastoral Collaboration” and other two related themes were “Small Christian Communities” and “Policy Regarding Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Abuse” (Guidelines by the CBCI 2012). The first topic was presented by Fr. C.R. Prabhu and the other two topics, by me. All three topics were presented by power-point. At the end Fr. Mike T. Raj, S.J. facilitated the discussion and helped to draw some resolutions to be realized in the year 2014.

Presenting the theme - Pastoral Collaboration - Fr. C.R. Prabhu said that the concept of partnership, collaboration, team-work and net-working is in fact the Biblical concept of Covenant between Yahweh and his people in the Old Testament, the collaborative leadership of Jesus in the New Testament and the communitarian life and mission of the Christians in the early Church. Keeping in mind our mission of proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God, we, as the disciples of Jesus, need to work in partnership and collaboration.

Fr. Prabhu also spoke inspiringly about the role and mission of the Religious in the Church, especially in the field of pioneering missionary movements in the Church and bringing the Good News to the unknown, unreachable people and territories. The religious have played an excellent role in building up the local Church and local Clergy. He said that the Religious are a gift of God to the Church. He also mentioned that the Bishop has a serious obligation in preserving and promoting Religious Life in the diocese; in promoting respect, love, unity and harmony among the diocesan priests and the Religious men and women.

Fr. C.R. Prabhu also emphatically said that the mission of the Church was our common heritage, common obligation and common responsibility and also for furthering the objectives and goals of the mission. All our priests and Religious, men and women, in our diocese need to work together in collaboration, partnership and in harmony.

My Dear brothers and sisters, Small Christian Communities (SCCs) are “little Church cells wherein the mystery is lived directly and with great simplicity”. Our God is a Trinitarian God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – three persons, but one in nature. In the process of creation God shares the Trinitarian life with humankind. Therefore we are relational in nature. SCCs are an excellent means to promote relationship among people in their neighbourhood. The Son of God, with his twelve Apostles formed a small community. The Apostles listened to Jesus, the Eternal Word, and grew in his ways. The community became a school of faith and a loving family. After Pentecost, the Apostles spread out and formed similar Christ-centred communities in different places. Thus the Church grew in grace, strength and number. The Church of Christ, therefore, evolved from such Christ-centred, Gospel based, outward-oriented small communities of the first century, as can be seen from the “Acts of the Apostles”.

In SCCs the Christians “come together for prayer, Scripture reading, catechesis and discussion on human and ecclesial problems with a view to a common commitment. These communities are a sign of vitality within the Church, an instrument of formation and evangelization, and a solid starting point for a new society based on a civilization of love” (Redemptoris Missio no.51). In SCCs the Word of God becomes the centre of the community. By reading and reflecting they begin to understand the immense love of God offered to them in sacraments. Sharing, proclaiming and praying the Word of God builds up the human and divine relationship. Thus they are led to proclaim and witness Jesus Christ.

The presentation of the “Policy Regarding sexual misconduct, sexual harassment and sexual abuse” dealt with the policy statement, definition of the terms, redress committee and code of conduct for everyone in the Church related institutions.

Fr. Mike T. Raj led discussion at the end and helped to draw concrete action plans for implementing them in near future. These are:
1.      The parish priest will call an urgent meeting of all priests and the Religious within his parish and will discuss these issues and plans various ministries within the parish.
2.      Every parish will organize “Small Christian Communities” within the parish. Parish will arrange for a training program for all the parish leaders on this SCC/BCC.
3.      Priest and Religious will visit families. Different communities of Sisters will be assigned to visit different areas regularly and to pray in the families.
4.      Every convent should set aside as full time parish pastoral Sister. The big and well-off Congregations would take care of that Sister as their contribution to the Church’s ministry. Those who cannot, the diocese would take care of their remuneration.

Please consider it mandatory to execute the action plans presented above. Let us collaborate with one another to build up the Kingdom of God and to evangelize people who are waiting to listen to the Good News. May the Lord bless our effort!

I once again wish you God’s Blessings and my Best Wishes for you in the New Year.

                                                                                                          Your Servant and Friend,
                                                                                                            +Felix Toppo, S.J.

Jamshedpur Diocesan official website: “www.jamshedpurdiocese.org  is at your service to give you the basic information about the diocese and its mission. It is launched on 25th of December, 2013 but most of the pages are under construction which will be completed as the eeliest possible. You are requested to give you suggestions to improve it according to our need. Thanks!

THE GOLDEN JUBILEE OF DSWC, GOVINDPUR IS INAUGURATED

Damien Social Welfare Centre, Dhanbad begins to wonder its 50 long years of successful journey in serving the least in the society namely lepers. The two days inaugural ceremony and celebration began on 6th of December, 2013 at Nirmala Hospital, Govindpur. Rev. Fr. Michael Lurdu Samy the Chief Guest and Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was of the inaugural function. Fr. Bipin Pani, the Director of the DSWC introduced and welcomed the honourable guests as well as to all the people who came from different colonies and neighboring villages to participate in the programmes.

During these two days various programmes were conducted in order to count the God’s blessing. The children from Nirmala School staged the beautiful entertainments for all the guests. It was also an occasion to give away the prizes to all the outstanding students of the school.


TIME FOR CELEBRATION: KUMARDHUBI
The Annual Parents’ Day 2013 was held on the 14th of December, and it was a great success. Children put up colorful – rhythmic dances & meaningful dramas. Rev. Fr. Victor Misquith, S.J. Director of De Nobili Schools was the Chief Guest. A good number of parents turned up for the show and the audience included many Principals, Vice Principals, Sisters and other dignitaries.

The programme concluded with the drama “THE FOURTH WISE MAN” by Henry Van Dyke, which unfurled the Christmas message “We must serve man to serve GOD”.

The Children’s Day was also celebrated with  great pomp & show. Children and Teachers gave instant performance, making the programme even more attractive.

Amidst all fun & laughter the Loyola family has had to bear much grief. Last month we lost two of our family members, Mr. Kevin Peters (Asst. Teacher) and Suresh Bouri (maintenance Staff) . We pray that their souls rest in peace. (Rita Sen)

MOSABONI PARISH FEAST CELEBRATION
On Sunday, 01th December, St. Barbara Church, Mosaboni, celebrated the Parish Feast. The celebrations began with the solemnly Holy Eucharist. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the chief celebrant who was given a traditional welcome by the parishioners. A large crowd participated in the Eucharist celebration. Excellent singing during the liturgy helped the faithful to pray with great devotions.
  
The joy was doubled as 18 boys and girls received the Sacrament of Confirmation. All the faithful prayed and wished the children the very best in their faith journey. After the Holy Mass everyone was given tea and snacks. Congratulations to Frs. Edward Saldanah, Cornelius Tigga and Sisters at Mosaboni!

BOYS’ HOSTEL CHANDIL CELEBRATED ITS SILVER JUBILEE
15th December, 2013 was a joyful day for the hostelrs and the people of Chandil area as they recalled the 25 years of the existence of the Boys’ Hostel which has given shelter to many young boys who came to study in Holy Cross School, Chawka. Presence of Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. along with other priests at this function was a great encouragement for the boys and their parents. The program began thanking the Lord for his numerous blessing through a beautiful liturgy. With the presentation of the brief history of Chandil Mission and Boys’ Hostel they were refreshed the purpose of the hostel.

After the Mass Golden Jubilee Scholarship were distributed to some of the poor children to help them in their studies. Bishop was offered a big ‘Khassi’as a Jubilee gift. At the end of the program everyone shared the fellowship meal.

BALARAMPUR CELEBRATES XAVIER’S DAY
On 3rd December, Fr. Jerome Pereira called for Deanery gathering at Balarampur. To his big surprise, everyone arrived, including Fr. George from Bhilaipahari. The Sacred Heart Sisters at Balarmpur were a perfect host. St. Xavier’s School, which is up to 5th Standard, had its Annual Parents day on 17th. Fr. Augustine Topno, the Principal of St. Xavier’s, Purulia was the Chief Guest. Huge crowd watched the beautiful stage-display with rapt attention. St. Anice the headmistress expects a record number of admissions in coming months.

RAJAPAROM IS ALIVE AGAIN!
Rajaparom village of CKP parish organized special First Communion Day for its Children. 25 boys and girls well prepared by Sr. Magdali and Bro. Mukesh of CKP for the day. Fr. C. R. Prabhu was the main celebrant of this Mass. After the Mass, Fr. Prabhu blessed the beautiful Grotto in honour of our Lady. This Grotto was built by the people of Rajaparom. Congratulations to Fr. Richard Miranda for his leadership in organizing these beautiful events.

ST. XAVIER ‘S, CKP, HOLDS GREAT CELEBRATIONS ON 3RD DECEMBER
Fr. Vernon D’Souza organized a beautiful Mass in the recently constructed Administrative Block for over 200 Catholic Students of his School. Fr. C. R. Prabhu was the Chief Guest of the day.  After the Mass, a common breakfast was served to the Staff and Parent’s representatives. The entire students with their parents/Guardians witnessed three and half hour long a colorful variety entertainment programme. The programmes were so entertaining that the parish priest, Fr. Richard Miranda to the surprise of everyone, sat through the entire programme. Fr. Eugene Ekka gave away awards to the contractors and builders of the Administrative Block. Congratulations to Fr. Vernon D’Souza and his competent staff on organizing such a beautiful day!

SEASON OF CHRISTMAS MILANS
During the month of December, one can see Santa Claus everywhere.  He is being propped up by commercial and market interests. Almost all the schools and Institutions- Christians and non-Christians alike hold special celebrations in honour of our Lord Jesus. Every parish in this city organized renewal programmes during Advent. The biggest attractions are the Christmas Cribs in all our parishes. On Dec. 25, literally thousands of non-Christians throng to see the cribs like Durga Pujua Panadlals, and pay obeisance to Lord Jesus. The Christmas Milans have become the fashion of the day, at least during this Season.

PASTORAL COLABORATION IN THE DIOCESE OF JAMSHEDPUR
The Bishop called for a special meeting of all priests, Heads of Institutions and Superiors of Religious Communities on 18th December to reflect on Pastoral Collaboration in the diocese. Over 110 priests and Religious responded to Bishop’s call and held a 3-hr long dialogue on various issues. Prior to the discussion, there were 3 Inputs, namely on Small Christian Communities, on CBCI guidelines on Sexual Misconduct and on Pastoral Collaboration. The Discussion session was chaired by the Jesuit Provincial, Fr. Michael Thanaraj SJ.  It was a brain–storming session to plan for coming years.  Being the Christmas season and end of the year, the Bishop thanked all priests and Sisters for the wonderful work  that they are doing  in/the diocese and assured them of his blessings. He gave each one a Christmas Gift and with singing of a few Carols and a sumptuous meal, the day was concluded. The minutes of the meeting are being sent out to all parishes and Communities, hoping that a concrete action plan will be drawn up at the parish level.

MICHAEL DEOGAM OF BURIGORA ORDAINED A DEACON
Bishop Felix Toppo SJ ordained Seminarian Michael Deogam a Deacon on December 18th during a beautiful Liturgy in the Cathedral Church. A number of people from Kolhan-Porhat came all the way for this Ordination. Over 20 priests participated in this religious function. Congratulations to Deacon Michael and his family. Soon after he becomes a Deacon, Bishop assigns him to Maluka Parish for his diaconate ministry.

CHRISTMAS MILAN IN JAMSHEDPUR
All churches of Jamshedpur under the banner of “Christians of Jamshedpur” organized a very special Christmas Milan on Sunday 22nd December at St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre.  Bishop Felix Toppo, SJ was the Chief Guest. Fr. Michael Thanaraj, SJ, Provincial of Jesuits gave an inspiring message on the occasion.  Mr. Indwar Secretary of GEL Church also gave a message extending Greetings to all Faiths of Good will. The Sikh Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee led the gathering through a beautiful “Kirtan” greeted all Christians on that occasion while the Muslim Community presented the theme of Forgiveness through “Skit”. St. Joseph’s School presented a beautiful welcome dance, Mr. Saban Barla welcomed the gathering and the  Mahila Sangh presented a  welcome Song. Mr. Peter Bonnerjee presented the vote of thanks.  Congratulations to all our lay-leaders for organizing this function.

ANNUAL PARENT’S DAY AT ST. FRANCIS DE SALE SCHOOL, SARAIKELA
21st December, 2013 at St. Francis de Sale School was a memorable day of this academic year for the students and teachers as they celebrated the annual parent’s day. On the joyous occation Deputy Commissioner of Saraikela-Kharswan Mr. Kripanand Jha was the chief guest and Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the guest of honor. The excellent cultural programmes staged the by students of the school were the wonder for their own parents who came to witness the evening. The discipline and systematic flow of the programmes on the stage showed that the value of management the school is cultivating in the students. Frs. Walter Crasta and Edwin Coelho too were present to enjoy the programmes. Congratutions to Fr. Shiju Mangalath and his staff and students.

Fr. GYAN WISHES MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

Dear Bishop,
Thank you very much for your email of Christmas wishes.
I had an Oblate priest from Ottawa to help me for Christmas. I led the service in three places and was glad to see quite many young people who came with their parents or grandparents (at least once a year) for Christmas celebration.

As our priests are growing old and going into retirement, the archbishop has asked us to train 3-4 lay people from each parish, who could lead the Sunday liturgy of the Word, in the absence of a priest. I hosted the English Zone training session for this purpose recently at St. Aloysius. There were 44 participants and I shared with them how our village catechists in Jamshedpur run the Sunday Girja in our village chapels. That was helpful. I wish you a very happy Christmas and a bright New Year.

Wishing you the Merry Christmas and the upcoming New Year to you I feel very Happy to extend the Love and Peace of God to you. The Christmas preparation and the celebration went on very well in snow and cold.  The Churches are usually packed during the Christmas time. We had good participation in the Church despite of the freezing cold and snow. Before the Christmas, I visited Fr. Cyril place and stayed one night to celebrate his Jubilee Mass in his parish. There were about 22 priests who concelebrated the Jubilee Mass followed by sumptuous meal. I have been enjoying the pastoral ministries in the parish, offering Masses, visiting nursing homes for administering the sacraments and also being chaplain to the Bishop Dwenger High school students. I do not depend on anyone for the ride I take a car by myself to attend any sick calls or emergency. The parishioners are happy and co-operative, inviting me for any kind of celebration at their homes. Fr. Mark Gurterner is the pastor of Our Lady of Good Hope he is very close to Bishop Rhodes. He is mostly busy with his Judicial work of the Diocese, since he is the only alone canonist looking after the judiciary works. (Fr. Gyan Prakash)

HEALTH BULLETIN
Fr. C.R. Prabhu loses his voice: After directing a 6-day retreat to 40 Salesians of Don Bosco of Kolkata Province Fr. Prabhu came back from Kolkata using mostly the sign language. The Doctors have strictly advised him not to use his voice for some days. He grounded himself for sometime but as his sugar is beyond control he is admitted at Mercy Hospital, Baridih.

Fr. James Quadros was admitted in Brahmananda Hospital, Mango, Jamshedpur, to be operated the stone in his abdomen. He was earlier admitted in Mercy Hospital, Baridih, due to the same urinal infections. His operation was successful and he is on his mission at Khuntpani Shrine.

On 6th December, 2013, Fr. Manu Horo, was admitted in St. John’s  Hospital, Bangalore for his check as he suffered continuous blackout. He was accompanied by Fr. Cornelius Tigga. After he was diagnosed with occipital lobe epilepsy complex partial seizures with secondary generalization, he came back to Jamshedpur on 21st December.

HEARTY CONDOLENCE TO FRS. PRADEEP AND DILEEP MARANDI
Frs. Pradeep and Dileep Marandi lost his father Mr. Ruplal Marandi (Catechist) on 25th December, 2013 due to high blood pressure and stroke. He was 71 years old. Hearing the news Pradeep and Dileep rushed to Dowadanr to give the last tribute to his father. At this difficult moment let us remember them and their family in our prayer. May his soul rest in peace!

Funeral mass and burial took place in Tetulia village on the following day. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the main celebrant. Besides Frs. Pradeep and Dileep Marandi and seven other priests concelebrated with the bishop. A big number of people, children and non-Christian were present for the last rites.

BIRTHDAY (JANUARY)

Date
Name
02
Gerald M. D’Souza
11
Raju Felix Crasta
21
Selva Raj
21
Walter Crasta
28
Gyan Prakash Topno

 The Call to the priesthood… Can you hear it?
The Diocese of Jamshedpur and Society of Jesus, Jamshedpur province have programs such as vocation seminar and meetings for prospective candidates for priesthood. Contact to the Vocation Offices for more informations at:

Fr. Linus Kindo
Bishop’s House
P.O. Golmuri
Jamshedpur-831003
Jharkhand
Phone No.: (0657) 2318130/09572752429

Fr. Somy Mathew, S.J.
Inigo Niwas, Candidate House
St. Xavier’s High School
P.B. No. 10, Chaibas P.O.
W. Sighbhum-833201
Phone No.: 09546721569

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.