NEWSLETTER-MARCH

YOUTH DAY CELEBRATIONS

On the 30^th January, 2011, youth, numbering 370, from the Jamshedpur Deanery gathered at the Lupita Hall, Telco, for a day of reflections and celebration. The day began with the recollection which was guided by Fr. CR Prabhu. Later Fr. Raju Felix Crasta spoke about the saints who are very much associated with the youth and about the importance of imitating them and praying through their intercession. In the evening there was a grandiose cultural programme staged by the youth of the Deanery.

CHANDIL

On the 6^th February, 2011, Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ, blessed the newly built Grotto at Jisu Marsal Parish, Chandil and dedicated to Our Lady. The ceremony began at 8.30 am. There was a formal welcoming of the Bishop and the other priests who were present for the ceremony. The parish was in a festive mood and served a grand lunch for the guests.

CRI ANNUAL CONVENTION

The annual convention of CRI Jamshedpur Diocese took place on the 12^th and 13^th of February, 2011. The two days’ convention was based on the theme: “Creative Empowerment of Youth in all our Ministries.” Fr. Michael T. Raj, SJ, in his inaugural address, said that it was a privileged year for all of us to reflect creatively on our commitment to the youth Ministry. He continued to say that we have to focus from within to without, from self- knowledge to critical reflection on societal situations, through self- acceptance to the choices of one’s action and life task, and towards self- actualization towards creating a better world.

After the key note address the group dispersed for discussions on the ‘Strength, Weaknesses, Achievements and Needs of the Diocese as a whole in the area of youth ministry.

On Sunday, the 13^th February, the CRI body had panel discussion which was chaired by Sr. Hilda D’Souza, SJC, on the following topics:

1.      Youth Ministry in a Pastoral Context (by Fr. Petrus Barla, CSsR)

2.      Religious Vocation and Youth Ministry (by Sr. Christina, SJT)

3.      Organizing the Unorganized Youth (by Fr. Peter Martin, SJ)

4.      Working with University Students (by Fr. Emile M. Coelho, SJ)

Each of the panelists spoke efficiently and came up with fresh ideas, motivating everyone to take action towards this heroic task in this challenging world. The CRI body took some decisions to implement these ideas in the coming days, like: To have Vocation day, to have special Mass for the youth, to begin YCM units in the Schools, to revive ‘Anokha Jeevan’ programme, to organize some of the unorganized youth in Jamshedpur, to create a youth forum for the University students in Jamshedpur.

The convention came to a conclusion with the Solemn Eucharist which was followed by a sumptuous meal served by Vikas Bharathi, Sundernagar. (Sr.Sudha SJT, CRI Secretary)

FEAST OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES

The Dominican Fathers at Birsanagar, along with the neighboring Catholics and Christians, celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on the 11^th February. The faithful had preparatory Novena in honour of to Our Lady of Lourdes and confessions. During the novena different fathers from the city offered the Holy Mass and preached. Rev. Fr. Amatus Kujur, the parish priest of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, was the main celebrant at the concelebrated Solemn Festal Mass. The festal celebrations ended with a common meal which was arranged with the help of the neighbors.

 

DIOCESAN PASTORAL COUNCIL MEET

On the 17^th February, 2011, more than 100 persons, including Priests, Sisters, lay men & women and youth, representing different deaneries and institutions, were gathered to discuss a Diocesan Pastoral Perspective Plan and to make suggestions to the Council regarding the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Diocese. Those gathered shared their dreams and visions for the parishes and the Diocese at large and came out with some constructive suggestions. The meeting ended at about 1.30 pm, with lunch.

 
JAGO YUVA BHARAT

With this slogan a group of 25 youth who are travelling from Kanyakumari to Kashmir reached Jamshedpur on the 20^th February, 2011. These are the National Delegates of the ICYM, who are on this journey trying to spread the messages of National Integration, Peace & Harmony, Environment & Climate Change, Millennium Development Goals and Youth Leadership. The national Delegates were received at Mango Bridge and were escorted to St. Joseph Cathedral, Golmuri, with a spectacular motorcade. At Golmuri the youth of Jamshedpur welcomed them with a traditional dance. They also staged a verity entertainment programme. Then the National Team of ICYM presented their message in various forms. On the 21^st morning the team gathered at Cheshire Home, Patel Bagan, to meet the inmates. The day began with the Eucharistic celebration. Rev. Fr. Henry Sequeira, the Parish priest of St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih, was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Holy Eucharist. After the Holy Mass, the Team shared their mission and dreams with the people gathered. After the breakfast the team left for Ranchi.

Dear Fathers / Brothers / Sisters,            I am indeed happy to inform you that three of our Deacons will be Ordained Priests, in the month of April, 2011. I cordially invite each one of you to join in these moments of grace and joy. Date Name Place Time 27th April, 2011 Dn. Sonu Hansdah Jisu Marsa Parish, Chandil 09.00 a.m. 28th April, 2011 Dn. Bipin Kumar Barla Christ the King Church, CKP 09.00 a.m. 28th April, 2011 Dn. Jilson T.L. Verapoly Cathedral, Eranakulam 03.30 p.m.         S/d Fr. C.R. Prabhu     Vicar General

TALDANGA

29^th January, 2011, was a day filled with mixed feelings. The day began with the celebration of the successful closure of class 12 for the year. However, there was also the sorrow of having to bid farewell to many a memory of the many years of schooling. The programme was set in a very solemn way, sufficient to leave an indelible mark of the memories of the outgoing students. The occasion was graced by Sr. Teresa Martis, the Chief Guest, the Principal, the Vice Principal, the teachers and the parents of the 12^th class students. The messages from the Chief Guest and the Principal inspired the students not only to be toppers academics but to bloom into true human beings. Some senior teachers also shared their experience. Refreshment was served to all who were present.

The final term exams were conducted between 31^stJanuary to 10^th February. Answer scripts were shown to parents on 18^th (LKG to XI).

Earlier on the 26^th January, 2011, the Republic Day was celebrated with true patriotic spirit.  Both the English Medium and Hindi Medium students put up dances and songs and delivered speeches. The New Council of School Representatives took oath on 26^th Jan (Rita Sen).

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Rev. Fr. Michael Raj, the Director of St. Joseph’s Community College, Golmuri, was invited to give a presentation on the ‘Financial Aspects of Community College’, in the National Workshop on Quality Management, held on 26^th and 27^th of January, 2011,  conducted by Indian Centre for Research and Development of Community Education (ICRDCE), Chennai. The students of Diploma and Certificate programs, after the successful completion of the internship programme, will return to the College on the 5^th of March, 2011. The Community College would start the Admissions of the 3^rd Batch of students for the Diploma and Certificate Programmes, from the 7^th March. 15^th March onwards the admission forms will be distributed for the 3^rd batch of Vocational training Programmes in House Wiring and Mobile Repairing.

SINI & SERAIKELLA:

OUR LADY OF NATIVITY CHURCH, SINI: After a long interval the Parish has formed a Parish Council. The construction of the Church cum Residence is in progress and will be completed in two months. Around 30 parishioners and others will soon be going to Potta, Kerala, to make their retreat.

ASSISI CONVENT, SINI: Sr. Jeen, sister in-charge of St. Xavier’s School, Sini has undergone a major operation in Kerala. We wish her speedy recovery. Sr. Lellis, the former Superior of the community has replaced Sr. Jeen for a few months. Sr. Janciline is on a transfer to Madhya Pradesh. We thank her for her commendable service in the medical field for the last two years and wish her all the best.

The Sisters are busy learning to drive scooty, as they have purchased a new one with the help a benefactor.

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES SCHOOL, SERAIKELLA: Fr. Shiju, the Principal, is just back from Bangalore after an Update and Renewal Programme. The children are busy with their annual exams. Admissions are on the rise as more and more parents look forward to quality education.  The school is waiting for the NOC to be affiliated to the ICSE Board. The School has won second prize at the ‘Prabhat Pheri’ held on the eve of Republic Day. Fr. Sebastian, the Provincial, and Fr. David, the bursar will be visiting our school on 3rd March. Welcome dear fathers.

DSFS CONVET: Sr. Marykutty, who pioneered the DSFS mission in Andrapradesh, is just back after the Jubilee celebrations at Elluru. Sr. Corada, the DSFS Mother General and Sr. Phina, Provincial of Indian Province, are on their visit to DSFS Convent at Seraikella. Welcome to Mother Corada on her maiden visit to Jharkhand and Chhotanagpur. The Mother thanks the Bishop for his invitation and his words of appreciation. (Fr. Shiju Mangalath, msfs)

DHOWATAND

The month of January 2011 was filled with many programmes. However the 31^st of January was very memorable to the Students of St. John Mary Vianney School and the parishioners, as the School conducted the Annual Sports Day under the able leadership of Rev. Fr. Edward Kongari. On this happy occasion Mrs. Sona Devi, the newly elected Mukia of Kanchanpur, and Ganga Devi, the ward member, as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour. The guests and the people of the place were indeed very happy to witness the holistic formation of their children to be responsible citizens of India.

MONTHLY RECOLLECTION

The regents of Jamshedpur Diocese had gathered at the Bishop’s House for the Spiritual nourishment, which would help then to face the month ahead. The recollection was guided by Fr. Jottin Jose, OP, on the theme: “Proclaiming Christ to the world.” He invited them to reflect on three questions: (1) So far what have I done for Jesus? (2) At present what am I doing for Jesus? (3) What will I do in the future for Jesus? By the end of the Spiritual exercise all were rejuvenated and are ready to face the month ahead.

TOKLO

At the beginning of the month of February St. Mark’s School, Toklo, conducted the annual sports day with great enthusiasm. The students actively participated in the events. It was an opportunity for the students to tell the world that ham kisi se kam nahi hai.

The people of Toklo benefit greatly from the regular medical camps that are conducted in there, under the able guidance of Rev. Fr. George, the Director of St. Joseph’s Hospital, Bhilai Pahari. Now the people of the place look forward to the visit of the medical team. (Bro. Sushil)

OMRA

The St. Mary’s parish and school at Omra, were really busy with activities in this New Year. Among the many activities that took place in the month of January were the school sports day. The energy and the natural talents which the students displayed were amazing.

On the 28^th of January St. Mary’s School, Omra, had invited the neighboring Saubera RCM School, for a Prem Bhoj. The school also arranged football and hockey matches on the occasion. (Bro. Mukesh Kerketta)

SIADIH

The parishioners of the Bl. Mother Teresa Parish began the New Year with a Solemn Eucharist. Then the rest of the day the parishioners actively participated in various games and entertainment programmes.

The Annual Sports Day of the Vidya Jyothi Middle School was held on the 22^nd of January. All the students actively participated in the events. The sports day was well appreciated by the parents and well-wishers of the school. On the 29^th of January the School had arranged a Day of outing, which both the students and the staff enjoyed.

NEW WEBSITE

We are glad to inform you that the St. Joseph’s Community College has launched a new website for the College. We congratulate Fr. Michael Raj the director and the Staff for this achievement. The web address is: http://www.sjccjamshedpur.org

UPASANA

Focusing on the year of the youth, we are trying to get in touch with the principals of our Catholic Schools in the town, requesting them to encourage and send their Catholic Students to Upasana for a day or two for retreats and recollections – both in English and Hind. In fact, a big group of SH Convent catholic girls accompanied by Sister Mabel, AC, and an assistant teacher came on 27 February for a day of prayer. They were guided by Fr. Joseph Kalathoor. We also are making an appeal to the PARISH PRIESTS of Jamshedpur Denary to guide the catholic laity in organizing retreats, recollections, or a day of reflections on various issues and concerns, using the facilities that are available at Upasana. (Fr. C. Gautam)

                                  Birthdays (March)

Date	Name
13	Fr. Chonhas Xalxo
14	Fr. Elvius Dungdung
21	Fr. Dilip Marandi
27	Fr. Raphael Monterio
29	Fr. Hermon Tigga
31	Fr. Henry Sequeira
31	Fr. Nicholas Kerketta

Bishop’s Engagements

March, 2011

Date	Day	Time	Programmes	Place
06	Sun	06.00 am	Blessing of the Grotto	Kutukudungri
		12.00 pm	Clergy Fellowship Meal	JSR
		03.30 pm	Meeting - Mahila Sangh	Golmuri
10	Thu	09.30 am	Jubilee Core Committee Meeting	JSR
20	Sun	05.00 pm	Gov. Board Meeting of St. Joseph’s Hospital	Bhilai Pahari
22	Tue	09.00 am	SIGN Meeting at SDC	Ranchi
		02.00 pm	Gov. Body Meeting of SIGN at SDC	Ranchi
		05.00 pm	Vikas Maitri Meeting at SDC	Ranchi
24-25			Minor Seminary Rectors Meeting	Ranchi
26	Sat		XLRI Convocation	JSR
28	Mon	08.00 am	Blessing of the New Classrooms	Purulia
29	Tue	03.30 pm	Finance Committee Meeting	JSR

LOYOLA COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Telco, Jamshedpur (Recognized by National Council for Teacher Education & Accredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council) Admission Forms will be available at the College for the B.Ed. (one year) 2011-2012 batch from 7th March, 2011 onwards (9.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.) Cost of a form: Rs. 600/- Eligibility: Graduates: Science / Arts / Commerce with minimum 50 % (45 % for SC / ST) in aggregate at the Bachelor Degree.         S/d Fr. Kuruvilla V. SJ       Principal

NEWS LETTER – DECEMBER

JINKPANI

St. Theresa’s parish and school conducted various activities in the month of November. The parish had been preparing to celebrate the Kuntpani feast for some time. They had been organising prayer services and Novena. On 8^th November, schoolchildren staged a wondrous dance performance at Kuntpani. At their school, the children had various competitions in view of the children’s day celebrations. The completions began with Rangoli and ended with fancy-dress. The teachers and students staged various programmes on the children’s day. St. Theresa’s sub junior boys and girls took part in the MUNNA-MUNNI Football Tournament organised at St. Xavier’s, Chaibasa. The boy’s team won the trophy, while the girl’s teams had the privilege of first ever participating in the tournament.

The parishioners had motivational programmes to inform themselves about their rights and duties in participating in the forthcoming Panchayath Elections.

JUBILEE CELEBRATION

On 30^th October, Sr. Hilda D’Souza, Principal of the Little Flower School, Telco, celebrated the Silver Jubilee of her religious profession. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ. was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Solemn Eucharist. Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Bishop of Bagdogra, preached on the occasion. The well-arranged liturgy, with the melodious singing of the Students of LFS created a heavenly atmosphere. The students and teaches of LFS staged a short cultural programme and screened a short sketch of the life history of Sr. Hilda. We congratulate Sr. Hilda and wish her God’s abundant blessings and happy and fruitful life ahead.

BIBLE QUIZ

On the 31^st October, St. Joseph Cathedral organised a Bible Quiz Competition for the Catholic students of different schools in the city. Students from nine different schools participated in it. The students from St. Mary’s Hindi School, Bistupur, bagged the fist price. The students from Loyola School, Sonary and Sacred Heart Convent School, respectively came in to the second and third positions. It was noted that the participation in the Bible Quiz Completion is poorer each passing year. A need is felt among some for the Parishes and Schools to take necessary steps to inculcate and develop the love for the Word of God among children and the faithful.

ST. JOSEPH’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE:

St. Joseph’s Community College, in order to bring out the hidden talents of its students, had conducted various competitions, like singing, speech and dance during the first week of November. The three-member bench of the jury, the best and well-known judges of the Diocese, Fr. Felix Raju, Bro. Jacob, DDS, and Sr. Miriam PDDM, gave verdict on the competitions. The winners received their prizes and certificates on the 20^th of November at the hand of Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ, who is the president of the Community College. The students and staff had also arranged a small Birthday celebration of their loving Bishop. They also staged some colourful cultural programmes on this occasion. On the National Seminar, which was organised by Indira Gandhi National Open University, Ms. Vanitha represented the Community College and made a presentation, which was well appreciated by all. Now Mr. Henry Sarkey has headed to Kolkata to attend a seminar and to make a presentation.

KUNTPANI FEAST:

On 8^th November, 2010, the Church in Chotta Nagpur celebrated the memory of the first baptism, which took place at Kuntpani in the year 1873. A large number of faithfull had gatherd for the Solemn Holy Eucharist. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ, was the main celebrant. Most Rev. John Barwa, SVD, Bishop of Rourkela, too was present for the feast and he preached an inspiring homily. The celebration began with the blessing of the memorial stone and by venerating the Kuntpani Mata by the Bishops and the priests who were present for the Mass.

ST. MARY’S BISTUPUR:

On the 14^th November, 2010, 35 children received Jesus in the form of bread to their life for the first time and 45 children were sealed with the indelible mark of the Holy Spirit as they received the Sacrament of Confirmation. The parishioners of St. Mary’s Parish, Bistupur, gathered in big number to witness and thank God on this occasion. The ceremony began with an entrance dance and traditional welcome of the celebrants. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ, during his homily reminded the parents and the children about the need for growing in prayer and thus in grace.

CRI, JAMSHEDPUR DEANERY:

The CRI unit of Jamshedpur deanery had its meeting at Little Flower School, Telco, on 7^th November. The CRI Jamshedpur Unit reflected on the state of the youth and the need of giving importance to the Youth Ministry. Fr. Peter Martin, SJ, shared his thoughts on the subject and enlightened the members present.

ST. MARY’S SCHOOL, NOAMUNDI

St. Mary’s School, Noamundi celebrated its Annual Day “Spandan 2010” in the evening of Tuesday, 9^th November, 2010, at Noamunid Club. Rev. Fr. C.R. Prabhu and Mr. D.B Sundararaman, the General Manager, Tata Steel, were the Chief guests while Mother Elsa SABS, Regional Superior of Divya Jyothi Region was the Guest of Honour. Fr. Prabhu addressing the gathering, congratulated the school and the SABS Sisters for their effort in imparting generous service to the people and said, “School education should not only form the minds of the children but also their hearts. Mere bookish knowledge will not suffice in today’s competitive world. They need to receive lessons in excelling themselves in their field.” Sr. Bridget SABS, the principal of the school presented the annual report while the children presented various cultural episodes to add the flavour to the day’s solemnity. Frs. Camil Hembrom, Junas Purty, Raju Felix Crasta and Sister Karuna, BS, were present on the occasion. Earlier, the Catholic representatives of Noamundi met the fathers in the chapel and expressed their concern over the church of Noamundi.

ST. PAUL’S MALUKA

“I think Fr. Prabhu is falling in love with Bethany” exclaimed Sr. Naveen as she saw Fr. Prabhu and his team, Frs. Camil and Raju entering the Bethany Convent on 9^th of November. They were on their way to Noamundi. The construction of new hostel building is in progress. Fr. Junas finds no stones unturned in ensuring a speedy finish. The campus looks beautiful with lots of vegetables and fruits. Goats, ducks and fish add life to the campus. Br. Birendra Tete says, “Fr. Purty is busy going to the villages and meeting and catechizing the people. He also teaches English to the hostel boys during their free time.”

CHACHA NEHRU REMEMBERED

Schoolchildren remembered their beloved ‘Chacha’, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the First Prime Minister of Independent India, on 14^th November - the Children’s Day. St. Paul’s School, Maluka celebrated it in a unique way. The class teachers offered floral tribute to the portrait of Pandit Nehru, followed by a prayer. Then the teachers put up an impressive Cultural extravaganza in honour of the students. Sr. Karun, the Head Mistress, delivered a thought provoking speech in which she said, “Dear Children, I urge you to dream big. Work hard to achieve your dreams.” (Br. B. Tete)

CHRIST THE KING PARISH, CHAKRADHARPUR

The Setu Vidyalaya Children (bridge school) put up a mind blowing welcome dance on Khuntpani Feast on November 8^th. Congratulations to Fr. Jondko and his team for the fine preparation. Presently the Christ the King Church wears a Bridal look. The words of the Psalmist, “How beautiful is your dwelling place O Lord, God the Almighty” is really true looking at the magnificent the roof and decoration of Christ the King Church. Thanks to the efforts of the priests, parishioners, donors and well-wishers.

ALL IS WELL IN SINDRI

Fr. Robert Toppo along with his Regent, Bro. Jijo is working hard for the spiritual upliftment of the people. It is noteworthy to mention here, that on October 28^th, the BIT students arranged a seminar on the famous slogan, “ALL IS WELL,” basing on the Scripture. Mr. Alex Zam from Pakuda was the chief resource person. One of the participants said at the end of the programme, “It was very much enriching.” 25 students participated in this seminar. (Br. Jijo)

IT’S A MIRACLE INDEED !

“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou dost preserve my life; thou dost stretch out thy hand against the wrath, and thy right hand delivers me” (Ps 138:7). This is literally true! God delivers his people from every danger, specially the children. It was lunchtime for the hostel children at Jisu Marsal, Chandil. Children hardly had their first serve of meals under a tree on Saturday, 20^th November. All of a sudden, a big branch of the tree broke and fell down and, tumbled off the vegetable dish. Fortunately, Fr. Pradeep Marandi had just moved off from the place where the branch had fallen. One of the children was found himself under the branch unharmed while the other escaped with slight bruises. Fr. Valerian had no words to thank God for His protection.

CLERGY MEETING

The much awaited Clergy Meeting was held on 10^th November in the Curia Hall at the Bishop’s House. Fr. Prabhu chaired the whole meeting. Fr. Augustine Ezhakunnel, S.J, with the help of power point presentation explained the new Education Policy and its implications. Latter, discussions were held regarding the celebration of the Jubilee of the Diocese.

PRIESTLY ORDINATION

“We live our lives in two levels: physical and divine. Ordination is a divine incident. As Moses was called to be the leader of Yahweh’s people… In the New Testament we see that, Jesus offering once and for all the eternal sacrifice. An ordained priest offers himself, in union with the Eternal High Priest, as sacrificial lamb to God for the people… Jesus says: “Do this in memory of me…” These were the words of Bishop Felix Toppo, SJ., at the Ordination of Deacon Dileep Marandi at St. Antony’s Church, Dhanbad, on 13^th November, 2010. The Concelebrated Eucharist began at 8.30 a.m. with a solemn entrance dance. The Deacon walked in a basket in a Santhal traditional way along with his parents, brothers and sister. Over a thousand people, thirty priests and many religious sisters witnessed this grace filled event. Fr. Richard Miranda made all the arrangements very efficiently. A beautiful pedal, an artistic stage, a meaningful liturgy and the fine cultural programmes caught every one’s attention. The Church of Jamshedpur is grateful to Marandi Family, for giving two of their sons to the Diocese and One daughter as Religious Nun (SCN Congregation) to the Universal Church at large.

TOWARDS THE VICTORY PODIUM

Br. Bipin Kishore Barla has applied for Diaconate ordination. He has finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Theology and Pastoral Theology from Morning Star Regional Seminary, Barrackpore. He will be doing his ministry in St. Mary’s Church, Omra till his Diaconate Ordination.

Br. Jilson T.L too has completed his BTh and Pastoral Theology from St. Peter’s Seminary, Bangalore and will be back to the diocese soon and will be assigned for the Guided Diaconate Ministry in the Diocese until his Ordination. At present, he has gone for a home visit cum vocation promotion to Kerala.

C.R. PRABHU ON WHEELS

Month of November was one of the busiest months of Fr. Prabhu. He began the month by preaching a Retreat for the Diocesan Priests in Bhagalpur. As he returned, he made a brisk visit to Adra, Kumardhubi and Dhanbad. Then it was time for the Kuntpani Feast which he never missed in his life. From there on he went to Chakradharpur, Maluka and Noamundi with a handful of assignments. On 21^st evening along with the Bishop Felix Toppo, Fr. Valerian Lobo and Fr. Camil Hembrom left for Patna to attend a three days programme on of Bijhan Diocesan Priests meet. His driver, Deepak, says, “I do not know, when father would tell me, ‘Deepak, Chalo!’ Therefore, I need to be ready at anytime.”

CHRIST THE KING FEAST CELEBRATIONS

The solemnity of Christ the King was celebrated with great Joy and enthusiasm in all the deaneries of Jamshedpur Diocese on 21^st of November. In Jamshedpur itself it was held in the Cathedral campus in the afternoon. Bishop Felix was the main Celebrant. The procession began from the school ground, along the main road till the Kawali Maidan where a short adoration was held followed by a homily preached by Fr. C.R Prabhu. In his homily, Fr. Prabhu urged the gathering to make Christ as the King of their hearts by following the Gospel values.

CRUS VEER RALLY

Dhanbad Deanery: Crusader’s Rally (Crus Veer) was organized in Tundi Parish for the deanery. As many as 200 children participated in it.

Jamshedpur Deanery: Jamshedpur deanery organized Crusader’s rally on 6^th -7^th November at St. Mary’s English School, Bistupur Campus. The theme of the Rally was “Family Prayer.” Fr. Raju Felix Crasta was the resource person who gave an inspiring talk to the children. Several programmes such as, Bible Quiz, Role Play competitions, Sing-Song and games were conducted and well appreciated. Except for a couple of schools, all the schools participated in it.

GOLD MEDAL:

Bro. Prince Dibash, who is doing his regency at Teapasi, has got two Gold Medals for English Literature. He is the Gold medal holder in the RTM Nagpur University and he bagged the Fr. Victor ROCHA memorial Gold medal from SFS College Nagpur. He was also selected as the best student in the College, so has received an award for that too. Congratulations dear Bro Prince

ST. XAVIER’S ENGLISH SCHOOL, CHIBASA

Enjoying learning is every child’s right. What is important is that the knowledge gained by the child be applied to life outside the school. “Train up a child in the way he should grow, and even when he is old he shall not depart from it” (Proverb 22:6). To enable this, the school organised the school fest SCINTILLATION 2010 wherein the students found it not only enjoyable but also more interactive and enriching process.

November not only found the teachers busy with corrections, open house day but also packed with surprises for the students as they dressed themselves in school uniform to entertain the children on the “children’s day”

Three students from the primary section made it at the National level again in the General Knowledge Olympiad. Indeed another feather in the cap!!! (St. Xavier’s English School)

Enhancement of life and light is what we at St. Xavier’s English School proclaim through our motto “ Let your light shine”........We will keep it GLOWING.......We will keep it GOING!!!

UPASANA RETREAT CENTRE

A group of 25 diocesan priests from four different dioceses, who are engaged in their school cum parish ministry, came for the third renewal programme arranged by UPASANA this year. Keeping in mind the particular needs of the participants, the theme of the retreat was modified by Fr. Gautam and made relevant to their needs; and Fr. Amatus Kujur was requested to speak on ‘Pastoral Leadership’ and the need for ‘Effective Interpersonal Relationship’ which are needed in the life of a pastor. He obligingly treated the topics very effectively in two consecutive days and the outcome was an earnest response from the priests. UPASANA also received a group of Monfort Bothers on the evening of 7^th November who came from Jharkhand and the neighbouring states. It was a mixed group of very senior as well as young Brothers from different schools with rich experiences. It was a real pleasure to guide them through the week-long retreat while the Spirit accompanied them with its powerful presence. They were led by Fr. Gautam through the “Integrated spirituality for the School Leaders”.

A retreat is scheduled from December 4 to 12, which is offered for men and women Religious and others who could not make their annual retreat. They are most welcome to this retreat, which will be guided by Fr. R Tonyraj. And Fr. Carl Dincher will be giving a Thirty-day’ retreat which will commence from December 15. Those interested are welcome to join. (Fr.C Gautam)

CONGRATULATIONS

We congratulate Fr. Simplicius Khess, OP, the newly appointed superior of St. Dominic’s Prarthanalaya, Birsanagar. Wish you all the very best Fr. Simply… (The new telephone no of St. Dominic’s Prarthanalaya: 0657-2280137)

NEWS FROM ABROAD

Fr. Gyanprakash Topno reached his parish in Canada, safely after a month-long tour of India. In Jamshedpur, during his stay, he had his teeth fixed according to the perfect dental formula. Just before leaving, he got admitted in the Mercy Hospital and had a thorough check-up, especially of his leg which was swollen due to a simple pimple.

Dr. Fr. Joy Paul writes from Canada, “I am fine here. I came to Labrador on 3^rd November. I think I should be here for some time. It is a nice and beautiful city. We have Iron Ore Mines here. Most of the people are working in the mines. With much love and smiles…”

Fr. Alex Dodrai writes from USA, “…nice to know that all of you are keeping well… Thank God, your prayers were heard. On Thursday, 25^th November, we have celebrated Thanksgiving Day. This celebration in the State is almost like Christmas. They do a great deal; they have a national Holiday… Rest everything is fine, except cold, though so far we didn’t have snow, it is started freezing. So take care and love to all in the Diocese…”

Fr. Cyril too is fine in USA, and he is planning to come to India for a month’s vacation. We wish all our priests abroad great success in their ministry.

UPDATES

Rev. Fr. Paul Koonamparampath, the Director of Jyothi Hospital, Kuruda, Balasore, has informed that Dr. Rudiger Fringer, M.S., senior world class Surgeon from Germany will be available at Jyothi Hospital from 01-12-2010 to 28-12-2010. For more details, advanced booking and considerable subsidies please contact: 06782-256296, 0937049391, 09437295965, frthomaspaul@rediffmail.com and jyothihospital@myrealbox.com

Birthdays (December)

Date	Name
03	Fr. Junas Bhengra
04	Fr. Ajay Tiru

Bishop’s  Engagements

December 2010

Date	Day	Time	Programmes	Place
01	Wed	am – pm	CBCI-CRI Joint Commission Meeting	Mumbai
03	Fri	am	Back to JSR
04	Sat	05.00 pm	CC/SJVK Gov. Body & Gen. Body Meeting	Sundernagar
05	Sun	10.00 am	Parish Feast, Holy Eucharist	Mosaboni
06	Mon	08.30 am	Gen. Body Meeting of C.C.M.C.C.S.	Gumla
07	Tue	09.30 am	Diocesan Senate Meeting	JSR
08	Wed	08.00 am	Blessing of the Multi Purpose Hall, Communion & Conformation	Tepasai
11	Sat	08.30 am	Golden Jubilee, Sr. Leona, OSU	Lohardaga
12-18			Spiritual Exercises	Balarampur
18	Sat	05.00 pm	Welcoming H.E. Cardinal Toppo	Golmuri
19	Sun	07.30 am	Jubilee Mass & Reception: Cardinal Toppo	Golmuri
24	Fri		Vigil Mass	Golmuri
29	Wed		Ordination of Jesuits at Loyola School	JSR

Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ,

along with the members residing at Bishop’s House,

wishes each one of you,

A Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year!