June, 2015

THE NATIVITY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

Every year according to our Liturgical Calendar, on June 24, we celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of John the Baptist, the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth. St. Luke writes about Zechariah and Elizabeth saying, “In the days of King Herod of Judea there lived a priest called Zechariah who belonged to the Abijah section of the priesthood, and he had a wife, Elizabeth by name, who was descendant of Aaron. Both were upright in the sight of God and impeccably carried out all the commandments and observances of the Lord. But they were childless: Elizabeth was barren and they were both advanced in years” (Lk.1:5-7). They lived in a village known as Hebron in the mountainous area of Judea. They were well to do, with a pretty house surrounded by an orchard with a kitchen garden, olive grove and other fruit trees. They were respected because of their uprightness and loved because of their fraternal charity to everyone.

St. Luke tells us that when Zechariah was in the Lord’s sanctuary and was burning the incense, the angel Gabriel appeared to him and announced saying, “Your wife Elizabeth is to bear you a son and you shall name him John... he will be great in the sight of the Lord...even from the mother’s womb he will be filled with the Holy Spirit....he will go before the Lord preparing a people fit for him” (Lk.1:13-17). Zechariah did not believe in the message of the angel and was punished to be speechless till the child was born.   

When Mary greeted Elizabeth with an embrace, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and with a deep salutation exclaimed, “You are blessed amongst women! Blessed is the Fruit of Your womb! How did I deserve that the Mother of my Lord should come to me, Your servant? There, at the sound of Your voice, the child leaped out of joy in my womb and when I embraced You, the Spirit of the Lord whispered deepest truths to my heart. You have brought holiness to my son whom I feel leaping with joy, like a happy little kid, in my womb, because he feels free from the burden of guilt, and is called to be the predecessor, sanctified before Redemption by the Holy One Who is growing within You!” Hearing Elizabeth’s inspired words, Mary raised her face and hands to heaven and exclaims, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord” and continues the canticle as it has been handed down to us. Elizabeth, a holy and humble woman deserved to understand the mystery that was enclosed within Mary. The Spirit spoke to her through the child’s bouncing in her womb. The Baptist pronounced his first speech, as the Announcer of the Word, through the joy in his mother’s womb.

After Elizabeth gave birth to a boy child, Zacharias, remembering the name given by the angel, wrote on a tablet: “His name is John”, his tongue became free and filled with the Holy Spirit he began to exclaim: “I did not believe the angel, but now I believe and the Light is now in me. The Light is amongst us, but you do not see it. It is its destiny not to be seen, because the souls of men are encumbered and idle, but my son will see it, and will speak of It, and turn to It the hearts of the just in Israel. Oh! Blessed are those who believe in It and will always believe in the Word of the Lord. And blessed be You, O Eternal Lord, God of Israel, because you have visited and redeemed Your people, and You have raised up for us a powerful Saviour in the house of Your servant David”. And he continues the Benedictus given in St. Luke’s Gospel.

John the Baptist was the last and greatest of prophets. As the forerunner of the Saviour, he prepared the Jews for the advent of Christ. When Christ had come, St. John bore witness to him and encouraged his own followers to follow him. In fact, St. John is more than a prophet. He is the one of whom the scripture says, “Look, I am going to send my messenger before you; he will prepare your way before you” (Mi 3:1). In him, the Holy Spirit concludes his speaking through the prophets. He proclaims the cycle of prophets begun by Elijah. He proclaims the imminence of the consolation of Israel; he is the ‘voice’ of the Consoler who is coming. As the Spirit of truth will also do, John ‘came to bear witness of the light’. In John’s sight, the Spirit thus brings to completion the careful search of the prophets and fulfils the longing of the angels: Lamb of God.

+Felix Toppo, S.J.

Bishop of Jamshedpur

THE WORLD COMMUNICATION DAY

The World Communication Day was celebrated on the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord- Sunday, May 17, 2015. The theme of this year’s World Communication Day was ‘Communicating the Family: A Privileged Place of Encounter with the Gift of Love’. (A summary of Pope’s Message is given below.)

In the family, we learn to embrace and support one another, to discern the meaning of facial expressions and moments of silence, to laugh and cry together with people who did not choose one other yet are so important to each other. More than anywhere else, the family is where we daily experience our own limits and those of others, the problems great and small entailed in living peacefully with others. A perfect family does not exist. We should not be fearful of imperfections, weakness or even conflict, but rather learn how to deal with them constructively. The family, where we keep loving one another despite our limits and sins, thus becomes a school of forgiveness.

When it comes to the challenges of communication, families who have children with one or more disabilities have much to teach us. A motor, sensory or mental limitation can be a reason for closing in on ourselves, but it can also become, thanks to the love of parents, siblings, and friends, an incentive to openness, sharing and ready communication with all. It can also help schools, parishes and associations to become more welcoming and inclusive of everyone.

In situations apparently dominated by hatred and violence, where families are separated by stone walls or the no less impenetrable walls of prejudice and resentment, where there seem to be good reasons for saying ‘enough is enough’, it is only by blessing rather than cursing, by visiting rather than repelling, and by accepting rather than fighting, that we can break the spiral of evil, show that goodness is always possible, and educate our children to fellowship.

Today the modern media, which are an essential part of life for young people in particular, can be both a help and a hindrance to communication in and between families. The media can be a hindrance if they become a way to avoid listening to others, to evade physical contact, to fill up every moment of silence and rest, so that we forget that ‘silence is an integral element of communication; in its absence, words rich in content cannot exist’. The media can help communication when they enable people to share their stories, to stay in contact with distant friends, to thank others or to seek their forgiveness, and to open the door to new encounters.

The great challenge facing us today is to learn once again how to talk to one another, not simply how to generate and consume information. The family is a community which provides help, which celebrates life and is fruitful. Once we realize this, we will once more be able to see how the family continues to be a rich human resource, as opposed to a problem or an institution in crisis. At times the media can tend to present the family as a kind of abstract model which has to be accepted or rejected, defended or attacked, rather than as a living reality.

This year’s message calls on the faithful to see families as “a resource rather than as a problem for society” and invites families to be examples of Christ’s love, kindness and fellowship.

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHEDRAL, GOLMURI

May 1^st was indeed a remarkable day for the parishioners of St Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri. The Parish Day was celebrated with lots of joy, pomp and glory. The festivity began with the solemn Eucharistic celebration presided by Ret. Rev. Bishop Felix Toppo, S. J. The cultural progaramme presented by the parishioners at the Welfare Hall was appreciated by all. In Bishop’s message, the story about the miraculous spiral staircase, attributed to have been built by St. Joseph, inspired everyone present. On this event, many who have been the back-bone of every development and various activities of the parish were remembered and honoured. Frs. David Vincent, V.G., Camil, Michael Deogam, Edwin and Jilson graced the occasion. Congratulations to Frs. Camil and Michael for the successful Parish Day Celebrations.

VIRAL BONANZA

Many members of the Bishop’s House Community were struck down by viral fever. The first one to be down and to be admitted in the hospital was Fr. Jilson, as he returned from holidays. The next one in queue was Fr. Johny Vithayathil. Though affected by fever, Fr. Edwin succeeded in evading hospitalization. Thanks to Fr. Linus for the timely care and Sisters of Mercy Hospital for their healing hands.

THE HOUSE FEAST OF MERCY CONVENT

The House Feast of Mercy Convent was celebrated on 4^th of May 2015. Bishop Felix Toppo, SJ., all the neighboring priests and friends joined the SCJM sisters in thanking the Lord in the solemn Eucharistic celebration  for all the blessings that the Lord has been showering  upon them in their life and ministry. Srs. Asha, Saroj, Stella and Roshni renewed their vows of their consecrated life in the Congregation of Jesus, Mary and Joseph and submitted their vows to Sr. Teresa, SCJM., the superior of the community, who represented the provincial. A sumptuous meal was served for everyone present.

CONFIRMATION AND PASTORAL VISITATION: KIRIBURU

May 10, 2015 will be inscribed in golden letters in the annals of history of St Joseph’s Church, Kiriburu. It was indeed a joyous day for the whole of Jamshedpur diocese as 167 members of Kiruburu Parish were administered the sacrament of Confirmation, of whom 50 were adults. The candidates of confirmation were from 6 units, namely, Kiriburu, Holonguli, Chotanagra, Gua, Kudlibad and Karampada. They were prepared separately in their own units for the reception of Confirmation and on the last three days all of them were brought together in the Church and were given special instructions and classes.

There was an aroma of joy and festivity everywhere. The culmination of joy was at the Eucharistic celebration; the very well-responses and the celestial choir added colours to the celebration. Congratulations to Frs Sureesh and Ranjeet for making this event remarkable in the history of St Joseph’s Church, Kiriburu.

ORDINATION OF DEACON MARIA CHARLES

St. Charles Parish in ‘the Pearl City’ known as Tuticorin beamed with joy as it received its first priest pearl, Fr. Maria Charles who got ordained for the diocese of Jamshedpur on 7^th May, 2015 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral campus along with seven other deacons of Palayamkottai diocese by the Most Rev. Jude Paulraj DD, the bishop of Palayamkottai.  Over five thousand faithful and two hundred priests witnessed this event. There were people representing various seminaries and parishes where the deacons were formed – Chennai, Pune, Ranchi and elsewhere. Fr. Roque Cardoza, Fr. Selvaraj, Deacon Jeyaraj, Br. Jino Jonis represented the diocese of Jamsehdpur. The presiding bishop in a private conversation spoke highly of the diocese of Jamshedpur. The diocese gratefully acknowledged the diocese of Jamshedpur for accepting Fr. Maria Charles from their diocese as a missionary. On the following morning, i.e., 8^th May, 2015 Fr. Maria Charles along with Frs. Roque, Selva, Dn. Jeyaraj and other priests offered the thanksgiving Eucharist at St. Charles Church, his home parish. A sumptuous breakfast was served soon after the mass. The mother, brother, relatives and friends of Fr. Maria Charles were thrilled to have their loved one at the altar of God, breaking the bread and wine.  Congratulations and all the best for your future priestly ministry, dear Fr. Maria Charles! (Fr. Raju f Crasta)

SILVER JUBILEE OF FR. VALERIUS LAKARA, SDB

It is a blessing to be a priest, but what is more gracious is, when you become a blessing for others; Quarter century in the service of Lord’s Vineyard! Hearty congrats Fr. Valerius for completing this great milestone, touching thousands of souls.

With grateful hearts to God, with a lot of appreciation and love towards Fr. Valerius Lakara, the Christian Community at Jhargo celebrated the Silver Ordination Jubilee of Fr. Valerius. On this auspicious occasion, four children were administered the First Holy Communion. Bishop Felix Toppo, the main celebrant at the Eucharistic celebration, congratulated and thanked Fr Valerius for his dedication and selfless service and exhorted the communicants about the invaluable gift of Holy Eucharist. Fr. Edward Dang, the assistant parish priest, gave a small biography of Fr Valerius and anchored the whole programme. The active participation and remarkable choir of the people reinstated that how successful Fr. Valerius is in his ministry. A small cultural programme followed the Eucharistic celebration. In his response, Fr. Valerius requested the prayers of the people for everyone at the service of the Lord. Frs. Vijay Bhatt, the former parish priest, Thobias Kujur, Dileep Marandi and Jilson represented the diocese along with Fr. Edward, the  Asst. PP, joined Fr. Valerius in thanking God for the blessed 25 years of his service. A sumptuous meal was served for everyone present.

LENDING A HAND OF RELIEF TO THE PEOPLE IN NEED

The City Youth on Sunday, 24^th May, carried out a unique drive; selling cold-drinks after the Mass in all the city parishes and Mass centers in view of raising funds for the Nepal earthquake victims. Over 50 youth from different parishes took part in the drive.

Congratulation to all the youth for their commendable effort as well as for bringing some relief to the parishioners on a day when the temperature went beyond 44º. Sincere thanks to the parish priests and sisters for their support and encouragement. (Fr. Dileep Marandi)

LANGUAGE COURSE AND SUMMER CAMP OF THE BROTHERS

May 1- 26, 2015 marked a remarkable event for the brothers of Jamshedpur diocese. It was a golden opportunity for the brothers, studying at various seminaries, to come together and to spend a part of their holidays in learning Ho language and culture at St. Theresa’s Church, Jhinkkpani, under the guidance of Frs. Halan Bodra and Bipin Barla from May 1-18^th. The life experiences shared by Mr. Dhanusingh Purty, Mr. Paulus Bodra and Sr. Magdali, OUS inspired the brothers and gave an impetus to work at the vineyard of the Lord.  After these mind storming sessions the brothers were sent to villages, two by two, to spend time with the people, putting into practice what they have learned and helping the people to spend the month of May more devotedly reciting rosaries and guiding them in their spiritual life.

A summer camp followed the language course. St. Mary’s Junior Block witnessed the zeal and vigour of our brothers as they were instilled the rudiments of music and computers.  Few sisters and lay people shared their expectations and experiences with the brothers while the priests reminiscenced their life as seminarians and gave guidelines for their formation. On the final day, there was a friendly basket-ball match between the brothers and fathers in which the seniors bet the youngsters. A cultural bonanza presented by the brothers entertained everyone present. (Fr. Linus Kindo)

FR. JILSON @ THE BISHOP’S HOUSE

With the new appointment, Fr. Jilson T L has already taken over the offices of P.A., Secretary, Chancellor, and at the marriage tribunal of the diocese from 11^th May 2015. He has just completed his licentiate in Canon Law from St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore. Congratulations to Fr. Jilson and all the best wishes in his new undertakings.

Contact No:08521608509; email id : fr.jilson@gmail.com

BISHOP’S PROGRAMME, JUNE 2015 Please Note: Most Rev. Felix Toppo, S.J. has left for U.S.A. He will be out of the Diocese from 18th May – 20th June, 2015. In his absence Rev. Fr. David Vincent, the Vicar General, will take care of the ordinary office of the Diocese.

  

BIRTHDAY BABIES - JUNE

Date	Name
16	Fr. Halan Bodra
24	Fr. Michael Jojo
30	Fr. Roque Cardoza

May 2015

OFFICIAL TRANSFERS/APPOINTMENTS/STUDIES-2015

MAY THE MONTH OF MARY

The month of May is the month that the piety of the faithful has especially dedicated to Our Blessed Lady. It is the occasion for a “moving tribute of faith and love that Catholics in every part of the world pay to the Queen of Heaven. During this month Christians, both in church and in the privacy of the home, offer up to Mary from their hearts an especially fervent and loving homage of prayer and veneration. In this month, too, the benefits of God’s mercy come down to us from her throne in greater abundance” (Paul VI: Encyclical Mense Maio: On the Month of May, No. 1).

This Christian custom of dedicating the month of May to the Blessed Virgin arose at the end of the 13^th century. In this way, the Church was able to Christianize the secular feasts that were to take place at that time. In the 16^th century, books appeared and fostered this devotion.

The practice became especially popular among the members of the Jesuit Order. The practice took hold among their students at the Roman College and a bit later it was publicly practiced in the Gesú Church in Rome. From there it spread to the whole Church.

The practice was granted a partial indulgence by Pius VII in1815 and a plenary indulgence by Pius IX in 1859. With the complete revision of indulgences in 1966 and the decreased emphasis on specific indulgences, it no longer carries an indulgence; however, it certainly falls within the category of the First General Grant of Indulgences.

This pious practice has been especially recommended by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent references to it and in his great Encyclical on the Sacred Liturgy (Mediator Dei) characterized it as one of “other exercises of piety that although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by the Bishops” (no.182).

In his 1965 Encyclical Mense Maio, Paul VI used the Month of Mary devotion as a means of obtaining prayers for peace. He urged the faithful to make use of this practice, which is “gladdening and consoling”, and by which the Blessed Virgin Mary is honoured and the Christian people are enriched with spiritual gifts.

There are no official prayers or rites for this practice. Many churches have a daily recitation of the Rosary in public or some other prayers in honour of Mary, including the crowning of Our Lady’s statue. For private use, one can follow the format of a liturgy of the Word: entrance chant, opening prayer, Scripture reading, and brief reflection or homily, with a concluding prayer of invocation. The only necessary element in that is that Mother Mary be honoured in a special way.

Blessed Virgin Mary is our loving and caring Mother and Queen par excellence. She is definitely a powerful mediatrix between God and us. She can fulfil all our needs, because God always grants her whatever she asks. Therefore, in great love and humility we need to approach her in our needs. I encourage all the laity, men and women religious and priests of the Diocese of Jamshedpur, to venerate Our Lady in the month of May. We can beg for various favours. In particular, let us pray for two intentions: first, that the Kingdom of God may spread in the Diocese of Jamshedpur; second, that all the families of the Diocese may cultivate deep love, trust and faith in Our Lady.

+Felix Toppo, S.J.

Bishop of Jamshedpur

FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH’S OF TARBES, BISTUPUR

Sisters of St. Joseph’s of Tarbes rejoiced as they celebrated the feast of their patron saint on 9^th April, 2015. Though the feast is celebrated on 19^th March, due to the Lenten season it was postponed. All the priests and religious of the town were invited to join in the celebration. Sr. Mariam, SJT, the superior of the community welcomed the guests. To invoke God’s blessings upon the Sisters and their congregation, a hymn was sung in honour of St. Joseph. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. graced the meal prepared for the occasion. It was a great joy to share the fellowship meal served by the Sisters.

GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION OF SR. CAMILLA, DSA PARSUDIH

“My soul glorifies the Lord my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has done great things for me”. (Lk. 1:46-47) This was the song which Sr. Camilla, DSA recited with gratitude to God Almighty on 11^th April, 2015, as she celebrated the Golden Jubilee of her religious profession at St. Ann’s Convent, Parsudih. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ. was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Solemn Eucharist. A good number of priests and religious of the town joined in thanking God through the Eucharistic celebration. Parishioners of St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih led the liturgy with beautiful singing and dancing. The celebration came to its end with a delicious fellowship meal. We congratulate Sr. Camilla, DSA and wish her God’s abundant blessings and happy and fruitful life in the years to come.  

CONFIRMATION

St. Xavier’s Church, Chaibasa

12^th May, 2015 was a memorable day for 78 boys and girls of St. Xavier’s Church, Chaibasa who received the Sacrament of Confirmation by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. On the same day 48 boys and girls received the First Communion. Holy Mass began at 7.00 a.m. with beautiful singing and entrance dance. The whole liturgy was very devotional.

After the Mass the parishioners welcomed and thanked the bishop. The Confirmation certificate was given to all the boys and girls who received the Sacrament. Congratulations to the parish priests and his team!

St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri

April 19, 2015 was a grace filled day for 64 boys and girls of the St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri. They were sealed with the Holy Spirit when the Sacrament of Confirmation was conferred by Rev. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. Their graceful faces speak of their joy and happiness, brave soldiers ready for fight against sin, and confess their Catholic faith as mature Catholics. There were many dedicated helping hands who taught children to know, to experience, to love and to seek the presence of Holy Spirit. Children are grateful to Fr. Camille, Sisters Jessy, Suchita, (SSH), Lily (SCN), and Miss Vinita Kandir for their guidance. Many faithful from Mercy Unit and Gyandeep Unit were there to pray for the children. Frs. Amatus Kujur, Bipin Pani, Emmanuel Horo, Dileep Marandi and Michael Deogam were present to bless the children. It was a great day for the conferred children. May Holy Spirit inspire them throughout their life. (Fr. Michael Deogam)

St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad

16^th April, 2015 was a memorable day for 54 boys and girls of St. Anthony’s Church, Dhanbad who received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Along with Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. Fr. Amatus Kujur, the parish priest, Frs. Norbert Kindo and Fr. Soreng were present at the Altar. The Solemn Mass began at 7:00 am with beautiful entrance dance by Mahila Sangh. The Church was filled with the faithful.

After the Mass the parishioners welcomed and thanked the bishop by giving a bouquet of flowers and a shawl. The Confirmation certificate was given to all the boys and girls who received the Sacrament. At the end of the programme all shared the snacks and tea. Congratulation to Fr. Amatus Kujur, the parish priest and dean of Dhanbad deanery!

BLESSING AND INUAGURATION-ST. TERESA’S SCHOOL, JHINKPANI

St. Theresa’s School, Jhinkpani gets a complete view with the completion of 06 new class rooms and a toilet block. The blessing and inauguration of the same took place on 24^th April, 2015. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the Chief Guest who blessed and inaugurated the new class rooms by cutting the ribbon whereas DSP Mr. Kullu inaugurated the newly built toilet block.

To honour the invited guests, the staff and students of St. Theresa’s School staged a short cultural program. The well prepared program was enjoyed and appreciated by all. Congratulations to the Headmistress, staff, students and management of the school!

SILVER JUBILEE CELEBRATION OF FRS. PAULUS BODRA & VALERIUS LAKRA, SDV

Fr. Paulus Bodra celebrated his 25 years Anniversary of his priesthood on 27^th April, 2015 at St. Xavier’s mission, campus Balarampur. The place was filled with the friends and well wishers of Fr. Paulus Bodra from every corner of the diocese. The thanksgiving Eucharist began with at 10.00am which was presided over by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. and concelebrated by many priests. On this occasion Fr. C.R. Prabhu a Golden jubillarian and Fr. Vallerius Lakra another Silver Jubillarian were present who also thanked God joining in the Eucharist.

Soon after the Holy Mass a short cultural program was put up by the Students of St. Xavier’s School, Balarampur and the guests who came from Govindpur, Dhanbad. All enjoyed the short program. Finally all present in the program shared a family meal. Congratulation dear Fr. Paulus Bodra!

VOCATION CAMP AT SUNDERNAGAR PRATIKSHA

Jointly organized vocation camp for the boys by the Diocese and Province of Jamshedpur Jesuits was held in Pratiksha seminary Sundernagar from 12-17^th April, 2015. 60 boys from the parishes of different dioceses came to participate in the vocation camp with a desire to become a priest. During these five days the boys were helped by the animators and various personnel of the Province as well as the diocese to understand the choice of life. Finally they opted either for the diocese or Province. Thanks to all the fathers who encouraged the boys to participate in the vocation camp.

DSWC GOVINDPUR

With the support of Ratna Nidhi Charitable Trust (RNCT), Mumbai 3 days Mobility camp was organized by Damien Social Welfare Centre (DSWC), Dhanbad at the Nirmala Hospital campus from 11^th April to 13^th April. Parvez Ibrahimi, District Social Welfare Officer was the Chief Guest and Mr. Anand, officer from District Child Protection office was the Guest of honour on this occasion. The Chief Guest lauded the efforts of DSWC and RNCT of rehabilitating the downtrodden. Dr. S. N. Sharma from Central Hospital, Dhanbad, Dr. A. K. Takur from Patliputra medical College and Hospital, Dhanbad Dr. Adidit, and Dr Ganesh A team of five technicians from RNCT came to conduct the camp. More than 500 persons had enrolled their names. 224 persons received Hearing Aid, 78 persons were identified for Jaipur foot, 45 persons were identified for crutches and 54 persons were identified for calipers. Measurements were taken for Jaipur foot, crutches and calipers. These people will get Jaipur foot, crutches and calipers after a month.

Students of Nirmala Nursing School, a unit of DSWC have started going to Primary Health Center for practice. Indian Nursing Council has given them Govindpur and Nirsa PHC for practice.

CONGRATULATION FR. MANOJ TIGGA

Diocese of Jamshedpur is blessed with another priest, Fr. Manoj Tigga who was ordained to the Sacred Order of Priesthood on the 29^th April, 2015 at Tamra Church by Most Rev. Felix Toppo, S.J., Bishop of Jamshedpur.

7 priests along with some brothers and faithful from the diocese represented the diocese of Jamshedpur.  The ordination ceremony began at 07:00 am. colored with traditional tribal dances and singing. We thank God for New Priest and congratulate Fr. Manoj Tigga whole heartedly!

CATHOLIC CHARITIES GETS A NEW HEALTH COORDINATOR

Sr. Suchita, the Ursuline Provincial of Ranchi has made available the services of Sr. Loui OSU, hitherto fore working at St. Angela’s Hospital, Chandmari to Catholic Charities, Jamshedpur to be its Health Coordinator.  Sr. Loui has already joined the CCJ and has already begun her ministry in good earnest.   CCJ/SJVK offered a big welcome Sr. Loui.  We thank Sr. Suchitta for her generosity in giving us the new Health Coordinator. We also thank Sr. Aupama, SRA for her generous services during the past 6 months.

SJVK takes up   a new Challenge: At the invitation of the Deputy Commissioner of West Singhbhum, Samekit Jan Vikas Kendra is exploring the possibility of developing a New Model Panchayat in Goilkera block.  Fr. Alwin has already begun surveying that panchayat, meeting with concerned officials and thus develop a plan in collaboration with DPO and other District Officers of West Singhbhum.  Fr. Michael Jojo’s help is being sought to make these efforts successful.  In the meantime, the Government of Jharkhand is planning in a big way to develop the villages within Saranda Forest.  SJVK is trying to get involved in this development project of the Government. Catholic Charities is also trying to tap Government resources to further develop Primitive Tribes in Greater Singhbhum District.

ST. MARY'S ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL

The Orientation for the Lower KG and Std.XI (Session 2015-16) was held on the 11th of April, 2015 at the Junior Block Auditorium. The LKG parents orientation was held at 11 a.m. and the Std.XI orientation was held at 5 pm.  The Principal, Vice-Principal, Class Teachers and coordinators welcomed them to the school and explained what St. Mary's has to offer them and what we expect from the parents and students. All the new-comers were agog with excitement and eager to start in the new environment. The classes began for the LKG and Std. XI on the 15th of April, 2015.

In memory of Fr. Gerry, (as we affectionately addressed him), Fr. David Vincent, and Sr. Mariam- Vice-Principal, together with Mr.Sajjad Ahmad Khan , our Basketball Coach and all the teachers & students of the Junior Block, organized the 1st Fr. Gerald Martin D'Souza Memorial Basketball Tournament at St. Mary's English High School, Junior Block Basketball grounds. 

Fr.Gerry's favourite game was Basketball and he enthusiastically supported all the necessary infrastructure to make the St. Mary's Basketball team a force to reckon with.Therefore, the initiative taken by Fr. David to honor late Fr. Gerry was appreciated by all the Parents, teachers and students. 

We hosted 16 teams from the city schools from 23rd April to 25th April, 2015. The Chief Guest at the Inaugural Ceremony of the Basketball tournament, on the 23rd of April, was Mr.Ravi Prasad, President Tata Worker's Union. He praised the elaborate arrangements and hospitality of the host school, and encouraged all the players to enjoy the spirit of sportsmanship and healthy competition. On behalf of Tata Worker's Union, he promised his support to St. Mary's in all its endeavors in sports and education.

The closing ceremony was held on the 25th of April and the Chief Guest was Mr. Charles Borromeo, Head, Tata Steel Sports. He gave away the prizes to the winning schools. 1st Place-Kerala Samajam Model School, Sakchi and 2nd Place-Hill Top School, Telco.

However, the closing ceremony on the 25th, ended on a sombre note as we got the sad news that Sr. Mariam's father was seriously ill and in a coma. Sr. Mariam had to rush off to her native place on the same day, but her father had already expired on the 26th before her arrival. (Mrs. Wendy Mary Reid, PA & Secretary to the Principal)

BIRTHDAY (MAY)

Date	Name
07	Alwin C.V.
13	Fr. Robert Toppo

April, 2015

DIVINE LOVE AND MYSTERY OF SUFFERING

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,                                

As we enter into the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ, I would like to reflect on Divine Love and the Mystery of Suffering. The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ is beyond the comprehension of human intelligence. Our Lord suffered physically, spiritually and mentally. We ask many questions to ourselves and others, “Why did Our Lord suffer? Was it necessary for him to suffer to save us? Often seeing the human beings, specially young and innocent suffer, we ask, “Why is he/she suffering? For whose sin is he/she suffering?”

Passion of Our Lord: Concerning the sufferings of Jesus the Messiah, the Scriptures have given answers and though we don’t fully understand we accept them as the right answers. Prophet Isaiah says, “Yet ours were the sufferings he was bearing, ours the sorrows he was carrying, while we thought of him as someone being punished and struck with affliction by God; whereas he was being wounded for our rebellions, crushed because of our guilt; the punishment reconciling fell on him, and we have been healed by his bruises” (Is.53:4-5). “By his knowledge, the upright one, my servant will justify many by taking their guilt on himself (Is.53:11 b) and “he was bearing the sin of many and interceding for the rebellion” (Is 53:12 b). The sufferings of Our Lord, reveals the mystery of God’s immense Love he has for us, his creatures.

The Earth an Altar for Praising God: The sufferings of human beings are very much connected to Divine Love. God is Alpha and Omega. Everything on earth and heaven is created by God. Everything comes from God, is for God and everything returns to God. Every creature, animate or inanimate, is expected to give praise to God. In fact the earth was to be an expansive altar to render everlasting praise to its Creator. The earth ought to sing praises to God who created it, but, sadly speaking, the earth is full of sin. Therefore, it must be the altar of endless expiation and sacrifice, on which the victims are consumed.

Human beings Responsibility to Praise God: The countless stars continuously sing the praises of God with their voices that are light and motion in the infinite spaces of firmament for thousands and thousands of years. The earth also sings praises to God spontaneously with its winds, water, the voices of animals and birds, rivers and mountains, trees and plants. But this is not sufficient, because on earth there is man, the perfect creation, superior to all living beings, gifted with spirit like the angels of heaven. He is destined to know, to love and to possess God, intelligently and voluntarily in order to repay God for granting him life on earth and Heaven after death.

Expiation of Sins Needed: God is self-sufficient. Yet God-Love wanted to have love. He created in order to receive love. What can God get from his creation? Only love!  This intelligent and free love, gifted only to the human beings on earth is the glory of God. This is the love which becomes the offering of love on the altar of the earth. If the earth omits the praises and entreaties of love, it will cease existing, because once love is extinguished, the expiation also would cease. Consequently, the earth would become a hell and the wrath of God would destroy it. Therefore, the human beings must love God freely and intelligently in order to exist. But the truth is this that the fallen and redeemed human being is sinful, offends God and needs to expiate for his sins. For expiation he needs to sacrifice victims, which are pure, spotless and faultless. These are the only victims agreeable to the Lord.

Sufferings are Gifts of God: The Earth has two-fold sacrifice to make: one of praise and the other of expiation. This is because mankind, living all over the earth, has sinned in Adam and Eve. Consequently, the relationship of human beings with God was ruptured. Mankind is continuously sinning and is adding to the sin of Adam and Eve, its countless sins and drifting away from God. Mankind, created in the likeness and image of God with intelligence and freedom, is endowed with divine grace, is becoming more and more sinful. Stars and planets, animals and birds, trees and plants, air and water, all obey God and praise him as best as they can. Men do not obey and do not give sufficient praise to God. That is why the victim-souls are needed so that they may love and praise God and expiate for the sins on behalf of everybody. These are the innocent children, who, though unaware, pay for the bitter punishment of sorrow for those who can do nothing but sin. They are the saints who willingly sacrifice themselves for everybody.

Perpetual Sacrifice of Jesus Our Lord: In the Old Testament times we see that the people, in order to praise God and to expiate their sins, offered sacrifices of bullocks, rams, lambs, doves, etc. But this was not sufficient. In the New Testament, the Son of God, Jesus Christ sacrificed himself as the Great Victim for giving highest praise to God and for expiation of the sins of mankind. Love consumed Himself for the Love of God and made it a perpetual Sacrifice. Only this Sacrifice of Love pleases God. It is a great mystery that God had to become incarnate to appease divine Justice for the great Sin of Adam and Eve and many sins of human beings. It shows that only the sacrifice of love and spirit can appease the Lord. Jesus through his life and sacrifice revealed the Love of God. After the sacrifice of Jesus, man has to understand the love and replace himself as a victim of love and expiation, on the model of the Lamb of God, his Master and Redeemer. He should not consider sorrow as a punishment, but as a gift of perfect love. Sorrow is not a punishment, when one knows how to accept it and use it rightly. Sorrow is like priesthood open to everyone and confers great power on the heart of God. Sorrow is a great merit. Sorrow can appease the Justice, because God can use for a good purpose also what Hatred created to give sorrow. Our Lord Jesus Christ did not choose any other means to cancel Sin, because there was and is no greater means than sacrificing himself.

May the lord bless all of us during the Holy Season of Lent and Easter!

                                                                                                                   +Felix Toppo, S.J.

                                                                                                                  Bishop of Jamshedpur

CONFERENCE STATEMENT

13TH National Conference of Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI)

Nagpur, 24-27th February 2015

We, the Members of the Conference of Diocesan Priests of India, after pondering over the discussions and deliberations that emerged from the Vatican’s Extra-ordinary Synod on the theme “The Family”, assembled at Nagpur on 24 -27 February, 2015 for our 13th National Council in which 65 of our member - priests participated and reflected on “The Effective Ministry to the Families in the light of the synod”.

While we immensely rejoice over many of our Christian families which strive to live their Christian faith more fully, we also realize that poverty, migration, caste-system, domestic violence, heightened materialism and consumerism, new age movements, rise of new philosophies and dangerously changing cultural and thinking patterns on socio-moral and religious issues in India, have subjected the institution of marriage and the family to tectonic shifts leading to a widespread erosion and disregard for traditionally held Church teaching on conjugal love and the Christian family.

The culture of violence and sexually immoral activity is blatantly being promoted in the media in the garb of ‘tv shows’, ‘video games’, movies, cyberspace and advertisements.

Threats to the sanctity of marriage are getting increasingly noticeable in the rise of pro same-sex marriage campaigns and civic bodies and NGO’s espousing the cause for LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexuals, Transgenders) and even questioning the validity of Church teaching on such groups of people.

The declining sense of sin and need for repentance is the fall-out of such changing ideologies and trends in society at large. In this present scenario the priests are called-upon to protect the Faith and the Family from this tsunami of moral degeneration.

This conference reiterates firmly that the Church unbendingly insists on the doctrine on marriage on the basis of reason and in the light of Divine Revelations has a prophetic voice in the current mentality shaped by relativism, hedonism and materialism.

Despite the dismal situation, the CDPI considers it absolutely necessary to be kind and compassionate in communicating the church teaching through empathetic dialogue instead of insensitively turning the faithful away. Our priestly ministry calls us to render greater and meticulous care towards estranged couples and families that have their spiritual life at stake.

With the help of the laity and adequately trained professionals, priests must engage in actively preparing partners, both before and after marriage. Accompanying the couples after marriage at various stages of their lives, through various programs must serve to strengthen the bonding. The exemplary married couples can be encouraged to serve as out-reach teams to help those preparing for marriage and to assist as counselors where couples and family relationships are in the doldrums. Priests, together with spiritually and morally mature couples have the obligation to reach out to children and elderly in gearing them up to guard themselves from the harsh and erosive forces in society that threaten their growth into mature and fully human persons.

Priests not only need to update themselves with the changing trends in society, but need to be well informed about the encyclicals and church teachings on Marriage and the family and incorporate them effectively in their preaching and programs for couples and the family.

We, priests, have the responsibility to preach more fervently, with conviction, but with kindness and compassion of the love, mercy and forgiveness of God to keep couples and families together and reach out to those who have gone astray. When couples and families are spiritually strong, the world becomes a better place to live in. We priests can effect that change through our ministry.

Given this day 27th February, 2015 at Pallotti Animation Centre, Nagpur, India.

                                                                                                                       

                                                                                                Fr. I. Raymond Joseph

                                                                                                Executive Secretary for CCBI

                                                                                                Commission for Clergy

                                                                                                CCBI Centre

                                                                                                Banglore - 560084

WOMAN: YOUR ARE TENDER, NOT WEAK

On 8^th March, 2018 the women of Jamshedpur diocese joined together at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Telco to celebrate the International women’s day. More than 259 women from different parts of the diocese came together to reflect on how important they are in building up the nation. The program began at 10:00 am with lighting the lamp. Rev. Fr. Camille Hembrom was the Chief Guest of the gathering. Dr. Kavita Pasar was the main speaker of the day who highlighted the indispensable place of women in every sphere of life in the society. In her speech she advised the women to be aware of the various evils and stand firm against it. There was also some slide show on girl child trafficking of the country and particularly in Jharkhand.

OUR LADY OF NATIVITY CHURCH, SINI

The high school Catholic students of Sini gathered for a day program to reflect on their career building as well as to prepare for the Easter. The program began at 8:00 am with lighting the ceremonial lamp. Fr. Linus Kindo facilitated the students in their program. Fr. Sijumon MSFS too came and encouraged the students. The participants had rich and good experience in the program. In the evening they received the sacrament of reconciliation. The program ended with the Holy Eucharist. Thanks to Sr. Jessy Francis and the community for organizing the Catholic students! May God bless you all!

CATHOLIC  CHARITIES /SAMEKIT JAN VIKAS KENDRA / VIKAS BHARATI

International Women’s  Day.

Over 600 Self-Help groups of women, federated into 12 Cooperatives came together on 10^th March to celebrate women’s power. These women put up various stalls in the Campus of Catholic Charities, exhibiting all sorts of rural wealth, what they -produce through their Income Generating programmes. Ms Ranjana, the Director DRDA, East Singhbhum was the Chief Guest; Bishop Felix Toppo SJ along with Commandant of CRPF/RAF, Sundernagar, the BDO of Jamshedpur and several other VIP were the Guests of Honour.  Nearly 1000 women participated in this event. Ms Dilit Castleton and Dr. Nilima Bara also addressed the gatherings. The programme was crowned with various Tribal Community Dances. The SHG s also organized a small lottery to help them cover some of the expenses. Congrats to the women of Jamshedpur.

Diocesan Strategic Health Planning

CCJ/SJVK organized a very special session on planning Health in this diocese. Sr. Rosita SRA, director of Chabi-jan with her team was the resource persons. Nearly 25 Sisters involved in promotion of Health participated in this One Day Strategic Planning.  Due to various reasons, most of the rural based health centres are not functioning well and nurse –sisters are struggling to keep the Health Centres going. It is hoped that new, innovative methods in the field of rural health are adopted and health becomes an important mission in the diocese. Thanks to Sr. Rosita and Chabi-jan  for infusing new spirit among our health personnel.

ADOLESCENT HEALTH AND CHILD RIGHTS

UNICEF, JHARKHAND is entering into East Singhbhum  with a program promoting adolescent health among young boys and girls and  awakening people against child /early marriage, sex-abuse and child-abuse. They have invited SJVK  and some 5 NGOs to join them in this movement.  There was already a preliminary meeting on 19^th afternoon.  SJVK has agreed to challenge and work in a couple of blocks of East Singhbhum. SJVK is becoming more involved in East Singhbhum.

SUSTAINABLE  DEVELOPMENT

Dka-Austria  has been supporting Catholic Charities in the field of Women’s Empowerment and NGO-Networking.  Recently, their Indian-Team (Gerry Rosario (Bihar-Sheriff) and Edlina Kerketta from Dibrugarh) spent 4 days in CCJ/SJVK visiting different villages where the programs are being implemented. They interacted with of our Partners and Women’s Co-operative officials.  This team was in high praise for CCJ/SJVK for the wonderful  work that is being done in villages strengthening women and other  CBOs and  small NGOs.

The program was concluded with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Leo D’Souza. At the end of the Mass all present in the program shared the fellowship meal.

GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY FOR RETREAT CENTRE AT SUNDERNAGAR

On 19^th March, Feast Day St Joseph, Bishop Felix Toppo S.J. blessed the foundation stone and led the ground breaking ceremony of residential block and prayer hall of Divya Jyoti Renewal Centre, Sundernagar. Rev Fr David Vincent, Vicar General; Rev Fr John Ottaplackal Parish Priest, Parsudih; Rev Fr Oscar Beck, Director Pratiksha; Rev Fr Alwin Jose Asst. Director Catholic Charities; Bro. Joyson DDS, representative from Cheshire Home, Holy Cross and St Ann’s, the village Mukhya and nearly 50 people mostly from Parsudih attended the ceremony. Presence of five Vincentian Priests from different centres added more joy to the occasion. With the completion of the building we hope to start regular retreats in the centre. (Sebastian Kallath VC)

LENTEN RETREATS BY DIDYA JYOTHI, JSR AND POPULAR MISSION CENTRE, BARELY

Rajaparam Mission Station: From 13-15 March, we conducted the Lenten Retreat at the Rajaparam, a village station of Chakradharpur parish. Every day the number of people kept on increasing and on the last day more than 400 people attended the retreat. Rev Fr. Prabhul Kumar Kerketta VC from Popular Mission Retreat Centre, Bareilly, UP was the main preacher. Some of the preaching was in Ho and we gratefully remember the service of Mr. Densor Hembrom for his preaching in Ho. Full time presence of Fr. Richard Miranda and his Holy Eucharist in Ho was very inspiring.

St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih: It was a gracious occasion for the faithful of St. Robert’s Church, Parsudih to participate in annual renewal retreat and prepare themselves spiritual to celebrate the great feast of Easter. The retreat began on 18^th March, 2015 and continued till 22^nd of March. According to their convenient people devotedly took part strengthened their faith in the risen Christ.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Mercy Chapel: “God has a plan for you, a place for you and the time for you” was the motivational statement of the retreat preachers for the faithful of Golmuri parishioners. In both the places a God experience retreat was preached simultaneously from 26-29 March, 2015. Prior to the retreat the preachers visited all the Catholic families of the parish and got acquainted with the family members. Special prayers were offered for the students, youth and family. The opportunities for counseling and for the celebration of the sacrament of reconciliation was given to all the faithful. A large number of the people percolated and profited from this beautiful retreat.

Jisu Marsal Church, Chandil: The same team led the renewal retread at Jisu Marsal Church, Chandil from 30^th of March to 1^st of April. It was definitely an great opportunity for the faithful of Chandil Parish to participate this retreat. From far away villages people came took part and received the blessiong for their families and community. Thanks to the retreat preachers and Parish Priest for giving such a rare opportunity.

St. Barabara Church, Mosaboni: In preparation of Easter the parishioners of St. Barbara Church Mosaboni also organized a renewal retreat from 20-22 March, 2015. Fr. Oscar Beck was the preacher who helped the faithful to reflect and meditate their life during these three days. All the faithful of the parish participated in this retreat and prayed for their special intentions. Jadugora Mission Station too had the same nature of renewal program from 27-28 March. It is a small community but very actively took part throughout the prayer service.

The Call to the priesthood… Can you hear it?

The Diocese of Jamshedpur and Society of Jesus, Jamshedpur province has programs such as vocation seminar and meetings for prospective candidates for priesthood from 12-17 April, 2015 at Pratiksha (Seminary), Jamshedpur. 10^th & +2 pass boys please contact to the Vocation Offices for more information at following address:

The Vocation Promoter

Bishop’s House

P.O. Golmuri

Jamshedpur-831003

Jharkhand

Phone No.: 09572752429

The Vocation Promoter (S.J.)

Inigo Niwas, Candidate House

St. Xavier’s High School

P.B. No. 10, Chaibasa P.O.

W. Sighbhum-833201

Phone No.: 9798736320/09546721569

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

APRIL
Date	Name
03	Richard Miranda
12	Leo John D’Souza
16	Sahaya Thason
19	Paulus Bodra
24	Pascal Minj
MAY
07	Alwin C.V.
13	Fr. Robert Toppo