JANUARY, 2013

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

We begin our New Year Liturgy with Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. Let us say, “Hail, Holy Mother, who gave birth of the King who rules heaven and earth for ever”. Mary is Mother of Jesus. Mary is acclaimed by Elizabeth, at the prompting of the Holy Spirit and even before the birth of her Son, as ‘the Mother of my Lord’. In fact, the One whom she conceived as man by the Holy Spirit, who truly became her Son according to the flesh, was none other than Father’s eternal Son, the Second person of the Holy Trinity. Hence the Church Confesses that Mary is truly ‘Mother of God’ (Theotokos).

Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived free from all stain of Original Sin, Her Immaculate Conception is the most beautiful fruit of the work of redemption accomplished by her Son, Jesus Christ. Chosen to be the Mother of the Saviour, God did not allow sin to contaminate her, which makes a model of holiness of life for all Christians.

The Blessed Mary became a Mother without loss of her virginity. In fact her Motherhood and virginity were united in a perfect and divine way. Her faith in and love for God was perfect. She played an active role in Christ’s redemptive work. Lord Jesus is our redeemer and Mother Mary is co-redemptress. She is Mother of Christians and the Church, model of womanhood and sign and hope for the world.

On Sunday, October 14, 2012 we inaugurated the ‘Year of Faith’. Blessed Virgin Mary is our Model of faith. Through Baptism we have entered the ‘Door of Faith’. Now we need to grow deeper and deeper in the Christian faith. In my Pastoral Letter on the ‘Year of Faith’ (Sept 21, 2012) I suggested some activities for the parishes which could help to deepen our faith. During the Priests’ Meeting on December 18, 2012 many more suggestions were made for much more meaningful celebration of the ‘Year of Faith’. The suggested activities are: to write a history of the Diocese, to have a workshop on the Assessment Report presented by Fr. Paul Fernandes, S.J., to update the salaries of the catechists and the staff, to improve the coordination and integration of the Diocesan priests and Religious, to set up health fund for medical care for the poor, to renew the zeal and commitment to evangelization, to continue to have renewal programs which were conducted during the Golden Jubilee Year, to recite the Nicene Creed instead of singing during the Mass, to take Apostles’ Creed for Sunday homilies, to organize Charismatic Prayer and Worship and pilgrimages in the parishes, to organize diocesan level retreats for priests, to show religious movies and to catechize the parents of the children before Baptism and Confirmation.

The above suggestions are very good. Let us promote these activities so that all of us may grow in faith, hope and love and march towards the Fullness of Life.

May the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God may guide us in deepening our faith in God Our Father, Her Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit!

           

                                                                                                +Felix Toppo, S.J.

                                                                                                Bishop of Jamshedpur  

         

CHAKRADHARPUR: ANGELA HOSPITAL GOLDEN JUBILEE

“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. Clemencia Kujur, OSU recited with gratitude to God Almighty on 15^th December, 2012, as she celebrated the Golden Jubilee of her religious profession at St. Angela Hospital, Chandmari. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ. was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Solemn Eucharist. Her sister Martina, M. C. along with other family members and relatives were present for the occasion. A good number of priests and religious of the diocese joined in thanking God through the Eucharistic celebration. The Ursuline communities in CKP together with the nurses of the St. Angela Hospital and students of Carmel School led the liturgy with beautiful singing and dancing. The celebration came to its end with a delicious meal. We congratulate Sr. Clemencia, OSU and wish her God’s abundant blessings and happy and fruitful life in the years to come.

ST. ROBERT’S HIGH SCHOOL PARSUDIH

The year 2012 was a year of blessing for St. Robert’s High School family. We are ever grateful to the Almighty for the enormous blessings.It was a long cherished dream of getting the final Permanent Affiliation for School. Many Principals put their efforts in their own way. Finally Fr. P.D. Johny’s hard work brought the long nourished dream come true. On 18^th March 2012 our school got the Permanent Affiliation from J.A.C.

 In the year 2011 during summer, the whole of Jamshedpur, especially Parsudih area had experienced a terrible water scarcity. We had a hard time to purchase water and fulfill the need for the school and house. So, Fr. Johny P.D. our Principal, rose according to the need of the situation and knocked at the door of “TSRDS” for a “Deep Bore – Well” and after getting the green signal, we had to get the permission from the DC. After accomplishing this Herculean task, finally on 18^th Jan.12 we got a deep Bore-well in our compound to meet all our water problems once and for all.

Nearly 750 students come to school by cycling and we had no provision for the cycle stand. Finally the long awaited proposal of TELCON – A dream become true and now we have a beautiful, spacious cycle stand, inaugurated on 10^th April 2012.

A long awaited dream of having a decent toilet block for our children and staff is almost getting completed.

A new, well established computer room and well equipped library wing are under progress.

We had a wonderful Annual Sports Day Meet on 11^th Nov. 2012. Mr. Ashok Ghosh (Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs & communication – TATA steel was the chief guest & Sri Bageecha Singh – Arjun Awardee was the Guest of Honour.

Our school staff members under the able guidance of our Fr. Principal are touching the new horizons of achievements. (Asha Toppo & Reena Kujur)

ST. JOSEPH’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE, MANGO

It’s a long time since we gave you news from St. Joseph’s community college. The students of the 4th batch of Community College have just finished their Midterm exams and are getting ready for Christmas. We will have our Christmas Gathering on 22^nd December 2012.

As the Year begins these students will go for their internship to Mercy Hospital, they will have their internship from the month of January 2013 to 9^th of March 2013.

New Batches for Conversational English classes will begin from the January 2013. We are also happy to inform you that we will be issuing forms for the new batch of Community College (5^th Batch) from 7^th January to 9^th February 2013. We will continue with the two trades, DTP and Health Assistant courses, please announce in your parishes and encourage all the students who can't go for further studies to come and join the Community College, we will equip them with skills that will help them to gain confidence in themselves as well as learn one trade which will help them to get a job and make their lives useful and fruitful.

We take this opportunity to wish all our readers a Very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

GOLMURI: DIACONATE ORDINATION

“I will give you leaders who will be faithful to me” (Jer. 3:15). This promise of God is realized once again as three of our seminarians Brs. Alwyn C. V., Sameer Soreng and Nestor Soreng were ordained deacons by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. on 12^th December, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri. On this occasion 25 priests and approximately 200 people including the family members of deacons participated in the Holy Mass to witness this important event in the life of these deacons. The Golmuri Choir by melodious singing helped the congregation to take part in the liturgy with devotion.

The beautiful liturgy was not the end of the celebration. After the diaconate ordination all the people were given tea and snacks, whereas all the priests, religious and their family members joined together for a fellowship meal in auditorium of St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre.

All the three deacons Alwyn C. V., Sameer Soreng and Nestor Soreng were appointed in three different parishes St. Xavier Church Chaibasa, Christ the King Church CKP and St. Paul’s Church Maluka respectively for their diaconate ministry. Congratulations to the newly ordained deacons and best wishes in their diaconate ministry!

KUMARDUBI TALDANGA

Though the year 2012, is coming to an end there is no sagging in the activities of the Loyolians. The zeal is continued all through the year. The Loyola family has gone through a lot of ups & downs in 2012 but we thank the Lord for His blessings that have enabled us to overcome all odds.

The students of class ten & twelve turned up in full attendance to write the Pre-Mock exam. They have been shown the corrected scripts & it is hoped that this will greatly boost their preparation for the Mock & ISC – ICSE 2013.

The eleventhers had a great experience at Carmel School Dhanbad on 30^th Nov. They participated in a number of contests and bagged the 2^nd prize in Collage making.

The 4^th Annual Sports Meet was held on 8^th Dec. The school ground was well decorated with proper pandals for parents, guests and the students. The Chief Guest was Mr. R.K. Dhan IPS Superintendent of Police Dhanbad. The Guest of Honour was Mr. Bhaskar Sarkar CEO Maithon Power Limited, Maithon. Both of them delivered very inspiring speeches and praised the performance of the students as athletes.

The March-Past was quite an admirable sight. All the four houses did well. They were given a special training by an NCC personnel. The rhythm and colour of the Drills enthralled one & all present.

To make the students aware of their responsibility towards the society and help the marginalized in the society, we have decided to dedicate the week, 11^th to 18^th of Dec., as Social Service Week. Children are generously contributing various items like clothes, soaps, grains, pulses, sugar, oil etc. Collected material will be given to the Leprosy Rehabilitation Centre at NIRMALA Leprosy Hospital, Govindpur, Dhanbad. This is the theme of our Christmas Celebration – reach out to the most needy with love and compassion.

Loyola family wishes you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS & A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR 2013.( Rita Sen)

JISU MARSAL PARISH CHANDIL

A long awaited dream for boys’ hostel building in Chandil Parish, which looks like a Church, was fulfilled on 16^th December with the blessing and inauguration by Rev. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. The construction of hostel building took nearly one year to be completed. Fr. Valerian Lobo and Fr. Pradeep Marandi worked day and night to raise local fund. The colourful inaugural function began with Holy Mass and celebrants were led to the Altar by Santhali Traditional dance. A short exciting cultural programme put up by the hostel children and parishioners compelled to clap hands and enjoy throughout. Whole programme ended with non-veg delicious meal. Congratulation, to Fr. Valerian, Fr. Pradeep and all the Sisters for their joint effort to make this inaugural function successful!

BHILAIPAHARI: INAUGURATION AND BLESSING OF “BAMBINO” BLOCK

The afternoon of Sunday December 16, 2012 had a joyful atmosphere at St. Joseph’s Hospital Campus, Bhilai Pahari. It was because Dr. Vojtech Elias (President) and Mr. Lubos Hajas (Chairman) of Likvidace Lepry, Check Republic had come here for the blessing and inauguration of the “Bambino” Block (Orphanage Block). They were accompanied by three young students from Check Republic. The Governing Board and the Managing Committee had a meeting with Dr. Fr. Vojtech Elias and Mr. Lubos at 3.00 p.m. Thereafter at 4.00 they were welcomed with tribal dance to the “Bambino Block”, which Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. blessed and dedicated. There are already 10 orphans living in the house. There was a short cultural program. Dr. Fr. Vojtech expressed his happiness and satisfaction at the great service St. Joseph’s Hospital was doing and assured to continue to collaborate in serving the sick. High Tea was given to all the present. Dr. Fr. Vojtech and his team left for Kolkata after that. Congratulations to Fr. George Manna and the JMJ Sisters!

BALARAMPUR : GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY

The Sisters of Sacred Heart of Balarampur were all smiles, when Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J, Fr. C.R. Prabhu, Fr. John Otto, Fr. Eugene Ekka and Mr. Ephrem Kispotta arrived for the ground breaking ceremony to construct a convent building. Fr. Jerome Pereira welcomed them all and offered them tea/coffee. At 11.00 a.m. together with the students of Standard Three, all gathered at the future convent building site. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J led the prayers and did the ground breaking followed by others present.

JHINKPANI: LAYING OF FOUNDATION STONE

At 3.30 p.m. on 22^nd December, 2012 amid the Sisters, students, village leaders, Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. after the prayers laid the foundation stone for the presbytery in our new land property. According to Fr. Water Crasta, the parish priest, the new presbytery should be ready within eight months.

GOVINDPUR: NIRMALA DAY

Nirmala Day was solemnly celebrated by D.S.W.C, Govindpur Dhanbad on 9^th December, 2012.  It began with the Holy Mass at 9:00 am which was presided over by Rev. Fr. Amatus Kujur, the Dean of Dhanbad deanery. Fr. Bipin Pani, Fr. Ajay Tiru and Fr. James Surin were the concelebrants in the Mass.  After the Mass a beautiful cultural programme was presented by students and hostellers of Nirmala Girls’ School, Govindpur to entertain the guests.  Rev. Fr. Amatus Kujur, the dean of Dhanbad deanery was the chief guest of the occasion. Prizes were given by the Chief Guest to the winners of various school academic activities as debate, singing and G.K competition etc. At the end of the programme everyone shared the delicious lunch served by the DSWC community, Govindpur.

BISHOP’S HOUSE, GOLMURI

Finance Department: To assist in the office of Finance Department of the Diocesan Curia, Golmuri, Sr. Rita Colaco, PDDM has joned from 4^th of December, 2012. She is an experienced accountant and she will assist the diocesan treasurer in managing various accounts of the diocese. We extend Rev. Sr. Rita  a hearty welcome and wish all the best in all her undertakings.

Clergy Meeting: On Tuesday, 18^th December, 2012, the Diocesan and Religious Priests came together for the clergy meeting and Christmas Milan for the year 2012. The meeting began with a bhajan and welcome address by the Bishop. After that Fr. C.R. Prabhu lead the group in discussions and deliberations on various issues concerning the Year of Faith, life and relationship of the clergy in the Diocese. The meeting came to an end with a Christmas get-to-gether and a delicious meal.

Christmas Gift by Dr. Ajay Kumar, MP of Jamshedpur: On the happy occasion of Christmas Dr. Ajay Kumar, MP of Jamshedpur gifted some computers and lap tops to Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. as a help in educating the poor children. Thanks to Dr. Ajay Kumar, MP for his generous contribution.

CONGRATULATIONS!

On the Episcopal ordination of Most Rev. Anand Jojo, Bishop of Hazaribag we congratulate him and the diocese. He was consecrated on 8^th December, 2012 by His Excellency Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo.

Hearty congratulation to Most Rev. Binay Kandulna on his appointment of the Bishop of Diocese of Kunti. The solemn installation will take place on 12^th January, 2013, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Khunti.

With prayerful support and encouragement the Catholic Diocese of Jamshedpur wishes God’s blessings and extends best wishes to   Most Rev. Anand Jojo, Bishop of Hazaribag and Most Rev. Binay Kandulna, Bishop of Khunti.

DIVYA BHARATHI, CHAIBASA

On the 2^nd of this month we had the CRI Meet of Chaibasa Deanery under the able leadership of Sr. Flora, UMI, President, Chaibasa CRI Unit and 36 Religious participated in the One day Meet which was facilitated by Fr. Hilary Lobo, SJ who through inputs and group discussions, animated the CRI Meet preparing them to celebrate the “Year of Faith” in a meaningful and fruitful manner. His availability and Power point Presentations were well appreciated and it ended with a Eucharist.

From the 7^th- 19^th of December, we had six couples from CKP, Noamundi and Chaibasa Parishes coming for the “Marriage Preparation Courses” which was held in Hindi and English. Fr. John Mundu also helped out in the various courses. Special thanks goes to the Parish Priests in taking extra care in encouraging couples to attend the courses.

From the 29^th-31^st, we had seven Jesuit Regents coming for their Triduum which ended in their Renewing their commitment to the Lord and also siepping into the New Year with renewed vigour and zeal.

During the year 2012-13, we had 23 programmes conducted in the Diocesan Pastoral Centre and in the New Year; the leadership will be carried forward by the new Director, Fr.Cyril Tigga, SJ.

-George Anthony

RIP NEWS

Fr. Richard Miranda: His mother Mrs. Alice Noronha Miranda died on 21^st December, 2012 in Mangalore. 

Fr. Robert Toppo: His mother Mrs. Lucia Toppo died on 25^th December, 2012 in Noadih, Gumla.

We wish you Fr. Richard and Fr. Robert Toppo a heart-felt condolence. May their souls rest in peace!

DIVYA JYOTI RENEWAL CENTRE, SUNDERNAGAR

To celebrate the Year of Faith, Divya Jyoti Renewal Centre, Sundernagar is organizing two weeks Retreat and Pilgrimage. The programme include five days retreat at Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Potta (June 2-7) and visit to important Churches in Kerala. Please announce the news in the parishes and centre. Last date to give the names: 31st January, 2013. For further details contact: Fr Sebastian Kallath VC, Mob. 8294923337. Happy New Year!

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 has programs such as vocation seminar and meetings for prospective candidates for priesthood. Contact to the Vocation Offices for more informations at:

Diocese of Jamshedpur:                    
The Vocation Promoter                                                     

Bishop’s House                                                                 

P.O. Golmuri                                                                     

Jamshedpur-831003                                                          

Jharkhand                                                                          

Phone No.: (0657) 2318130/09572752429                     

Jesuit Province of Jamshedpur:
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

DECEMBER, 2012

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE OF BISHOP FELIX TOPPO, S.J.

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

In preparation of Christmas we enter into Advent Season. Let Us remind ourselves that "When the Church celebrates the Liturgy of Advent each year: she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviour's first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming" (CCC 524). "The coming of God's Son to earth is an event of such immensity that God willed to prepare for it over centuries. He makes everything converge on Christ: all the rituals and sacrifices, figures and symbols of the 'First Covenant'. He announces this through the mouths of the prophets who succeeded one another in Israel. Moreover, he awakens in the hearts of the pagans a dim expectation of this coming" (CCC 522).

St. John the Apostles understood the infinite love of God in the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. He says, "For this how God loved the world: he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him many not perish, but may have eternal life" (In 3:16). Christmas should be seen, reflected upon, understood and meditated upon as an act of love of God's immense love and mercy in order to bring salvation to humankind.

During Advent the spiritual attitude we need to take assume and invoke is to say, "Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation" (Ps 85:8) and "Come and save us, Lord our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved" (Ps 80:4). But this attitude calls for true repentance of heart. "Interior repentance is a radical reorientation of our whole life, a return, a conversion to God with all our heart, an end of sin, a turning away from evil, with repugnance toward the evil actions we have committed. At the same time it entails the desire and resolution to change one's life, with hope in God's mercy and trust in the help of grace" (CCC 1431).

We wish to welcome and receive in our hearts the Second Person of Trinity during Christmas. For this we need to be purified and sanctified. We need to have deep faith in the mystery of God's love and mercy. Mother Mary who was immaculate, body and soul, was able to welcome and receive the Incarnate Word in her heart and womb. She was most sublime masterpiece of God the Father. She had an immaculate womb and heart to receive he unblemished Lamb of God. She became the virgin Mother of God and Co- Redemptress with the Redeemer. She had deep faith in the mystery of God's immense love and mystery of God's ways.

Like Mother Mary we need to have deep faith in God's Love and Mercy. Then "the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh will see the salvation of our God" (Is 40:5). Then we will be able to understand the angel's message, "I proclaim to you good news of great joy: today a Saviour is born for us, Christ the Lord" (Lk 2:11).

In the depth of our hearts, let us sing with the angels, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those whom his favor rests" (Lk 2:14).

I wish you Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

                                      Your Friend and Servant

                                          +Felix Toppo, S.J.

GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION

3^rd November, 2012

This Day belongs to the Lord!

Let’s rejoice and be glad.

The Lord is our God and He has given us Light! (Ps. 118)

Golden Jubilee of Mercy Hospital was celebrated on 3^rd November, 2012 in Mercy Hospital Campus. Mr.H.M.Nerurkar, MD Tata Steel was the Chief guest who laid the foundation Stone for the MERCY SCHOOL OF NURSING. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J., Jamshedpur Diocese our Guest of Honour, blessed the ground before laying the foundation stone. The function began with a meaningful prayer dance invoking the blessings of the Lord for the day followed by a Lamp lighting ceremony. Sr. Lilly Pallipurath, Provincial Superior gave the welcome address. Golden Jubilee Souvenir was released by Mr. H.M.Nerurkar MD Tata Steel along with Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J., Sr. Lilly Pallipurath and Sr. Jessy Joseph. Mr. H.M.Nerurkar and Bishop Felix Toppo gave their messages to the audience on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee.

We had a beautiful and meaningful thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration  on 4^th November, 2012 at 7 a.m. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the main celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration along with Fr. C.R.Prabhu, Vicar General , Rev. Fr.Michael T.Raj, S.J., Provincial, Jamshedpur Jesuit Society and Rev. Fr. Camil Hembrom, Parish Priest, Golmuri Jamshedpur with priests from the Diocese. The parishners felicitated the sisters after the Mass as a kind gesture of their love and concern towards the sisters. Our deep felt gratitude to our dear Parishners.

We would like to thank one and all who participated in our function and the thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration .Thank you for your help, support and encouragement at all times.

In Joy and Gratitude we raise our hearts to the Lord our God for the abundant blessings and graces He showered upon us to see the successful completion of the occasion.( Sr. Jessy Joseph, Administrator)

KHUNTPANI: ANNUAL FEAST CELEBRATION

The annual feast of Khuntpani Shrine was celebrated on 8^th November, 2012, with great joy and festivity. On that day the Church in Chotanagpur remembered the divine intervention of God in the community through the first Baptism, which took place at Khuntpani in the year 1873, and thanked God for the same. A large number of faithful from different parts of Jharkhand and Odisha had gathered for the Solemn Holy Eucharist. Rev. Fr. C.R.Prabhu, Vicar General was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Solemn Holy Eucharist. During the homily he spoke about the different ways in which God intervenes in our life basing on the life of Blessed Mother Mary. The celebration began with the blessing of the memorial stone, lighting of the lamps and by venerating Khuntpani Mata by the Priests who were present for the Holy Eucharist. After the Holy Eucharist, in order to accelerate the festive mood, children from various schools presented cultural items. Congratulation to Fr. Edwin and his team!

BHILAIPAHARI: SILVER JUBILEE

On 27^th October, 2012, Sr. Matilda Kujur, JMJ celebrated the Silver Jubilee of her religious profession at Bhilaipahari. Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ. was the main celebrant of the concelebrated Solemn Eucharist. Her sister Margret Kujur, S.H. along with other family members and relatives were present for the occasion. A good number of priests and religious of the town joined this rare celebration. The staffs of the St. Joseph’s Hospital and Jeevan Jyoti Nursing School took great initiative in organizing the liturgy. The celebration came to its end with a delicious meal. We congratulate Sr. Matilda and wish her God’s abundant blessings and happy and fruitful life ahead.

BURIGORA: CHILDRENS’ DAY CELEBRATION

The village school at Ichakuti and Dharamsai celebrated the children’s Day on 14^th and 15^th of November, 2012.  The day was filled with lot of fun as the children were given the opportunities to participate in various games conducted on the occasion. 25 youths from Jamshedpur and CKP joined the children to share their joy. They distributed some blankets, copy books, pen and pencils to the children. Thanks to the youths and congratulation to Fr. Sanjay Kujur and team for giving these privileges to the children!

JADUGORA

“So I have decided to build a temple to honor the Lord my God, as the Lord instructed my father David…” (1 king 5:5).

The long awaited dream of the faithful of Jadugora was realized when the newly built chapel was inaugurated by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. on 18^th November, 2012. It is dedicated to “Infant Jesus”. The faithful gave the bishop a traditional welcome by receiving him at the main road. Then the bishop was led to the newly built chapel by dancing women and the faithful. The inaugural ceremonies began at 10:30 am by cutting the ribbon by Fr. C.R. Prabhu and it was blessed by Bishop Felix in the presence of a big number of faithful and 13 priests. The liturgy was very devotional with beautiful singing.

A short entertainment programme after the inaugural Mass cheered all who came. It was also an occasion to honour the people of the place who kept their faith and concretized it. At the end of the programme all share the delicious meal prepared by the faithful of Jadugora.

CHAIBASA: ST. XAVIER’S CHURCH

One day “know your faith” programme for the parish youth was held on 28^th October, 2012. It was conducted by Fr. Joseph Beck CsSr. 40 parish youth participated in it. The programme included a talk, group discussion, sharing the report and planning activities for the year of faith for the youth of the parish.

Christ the King Feast: On 25^th November, 2012 the parish celebrated Christ the King feast with the solemn procession. It started from convent school and ended in the boys’ school campus. Every unit of the parish had its own banner. The units stayed and walked together singing and praying during the procession. The girls of St. Xavier’s School took in procession the Eucharistic Lord and priest with traditional dance from the school gate to the specially erected stage for the grace-filled occasion. Fr. Edwin Coelho preached the homily and highlighted the salient features of the year of faith. All the religious communities of the parish gave a helping hand to make this occasion a grace filled event for all.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION & CONFIRMATION

The First Holy Communion was received by the children in different parishes.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Thirty Five children received the First Holy Communion on 11th November at the solemn Eucharistic celebration led by Fr. Bipin Pani and Fr. Camille Hembrom in the presence of devoted congregation.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Telco, prepared 16 girls and 12 boys to receive the First Holy communion on 18^th November. On this occasion parents of the children too were given the opportunity to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation. Fr. Oskar Beck, the Rector of Pratiksha was main celebrant of this important event who through his inspiring homily asked the children to be true and honest follower of Jesus.

St. Mary’s Church, Bistupur: On 18^th November, 2012, 28 children received First Communion and 38 boys and girls received the Confirmation by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. A big crowd participated in the Mass to pray and to wish the children the very best in their faith journey. Congratulations to all of them!  

CHRIST OF KING FEAST

The feast of Christ the King was celebrated in a very grand way on 25^th November, 2012 in all the deaneries of the diocese. Jamshedpur deanery had it in St. Mary’s Church, Bistupur as the venue for the celebration. The celebration began in the afternoon at 1 o’clock. Large number of people was gathered for the celebrations. Bishop Felix Toppo was the main celebrant of the concelebrated holy Eucharist. Fr. Augustine Ezhkunnel was the preacher.

KUMARDUBI: LOYOLA SCHOOL, TALDANGA

In the recent past the achievements of the Loyolian athletes have made us proud. At the Zonal Meet Mou Gorai XI Sc won 1^st prize in 100 mts Race, Jyoti Kumari X A – 2^nd in Triple Jump & 3^rd in High Jump,  Nishi Agarwal IX A – 1^st in Javelin Throw,  Ashish Kumar IX A 1^st in Long Jump & 2^nd in 100 mts Race. At the Regional Athletic Meet, Jamshedpur Mou Gorai stood 3^rd in the Relay, Jyoti Kumari 3^rd in Triple Jump. The students have yet another occasion, The Inter – School Contest ‘Questergy’ is on 30^th November and students of Class 11 are participating in Debate, Slogan Writing, Collage, Creative Writing, Elocution, Quiz, Choir & Folk Dance. It is being organized by Carmel School – Dhanbad.

Children’s Day was celebrated with a twist this year. It was holiday on the 14^th as it was a day after the Diwali. The teachers performed for the children on the 17^th. Among the colourful dances and songs what moved the children the most was the Prayer Service. The theme was to be aware of all the children of the world and particularly India who are under-privileged. The condition of such children was presented with perfect data & charts. In his message the Principal said that the children are in darkness and it is WE who must bring the change as we live the School Motto – Light Ever Shines.

The Puja Vacation this year did not take off on a happy note. It is because on the 11^th October a Prayer Service was held for our dear Sakcham Singh of KG B, whom we lost on 20^th Sept, due to blood cancer. His parents and family members attended the service. All present sat with a heavy heart. We pray that his soul rests in peace and his family has the strength to bear the loss.

We have another student, Palak Agarwal, who is suffering from cancer. We have put up a united effort to help her overcome this disease. Parents, students, local organizations, neighbouring school, Staff Members have made a contribution of Rs.2,57,051/- for her treatment at CMC–Vellore. At present she has been taken there. (Rita Sen)

DIVYA BHRATHI

There was a training programme for the Lay Catechists from the 5-7^th of November in our Diocesan Pastoral Centre in Chaibasa. This Module was dedicated to “ADVENT PREPARATION” and “HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS”. This being the Year of Faith, this was an attempt to renew the faith of the people whom they serve and also to prepare worthily for the forthcoming Christmas. On Nov. 7th , we had 37 parishners from Chandil Parish and also 3 Diocesan priests from Balasore  Diocese and a Catechist as guests in our place before they attended the programme of November 8^th, Feast of our Lady of Khuntpani. Our Dean, Fr. Edwin Coelho and team, with their meticulous planning ensured that the programme went forward with a clockwork precision and the devotional liturgy followed by colourful cultural programme ended before 12 noon. As usual, we had a good sale of the HO Books (We also sold Hindi Bibles and Hindi Prayer Books this time and all were sold out!!).

On the 13^th, I attended a Renewal cum Retreat programme in JDV PG Block, Pune (where Fr. Raju Crasta of Jamshedpur Diocese is doing his studies). Fr. Paul Fernandes directed the programme on PASTORAL LEADERSHIP helped by Fr. Vincent Crasta, SJ (KAR). From our Province, Frs. Gulshan Kujur, Cornelius Lakra, Cyril Tigga, Rajesh Dungdung and Amrit Kujur attended the Pastors’ Updating programme and also made their Retreat. It was also a good opportunity to meet our Jam Wallahs and old friends in the Campus. Frs. Alex G and Francis Ezha who made sure all the participants had comfortable and fruitful stay with no complaints! All the participants appreciated the inputs by Paul Fernandes, and found the entire programme fruitful for their Pastoral Ministry.

I also attended a CCBI Bible Commission Meeting in Mysore from the 26-30 November which was a good opportunity to interact with people and scholars involved in promoting the Word of God in various parts of India as well as the ways of promoting Bible Study and Praying. Bible in every Family is our aim. (George Anthony, S.J.)

JHINKPANI

St. Teresa’s Convent, Jhinkpani was inaugurated on 24^th November, 2012 by Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. in the presence of large number of people, priests and religious. While Bishop Felix Toppo was the main celebrant, Fr. C.R. Prabhu was the preacher. Melodious singing during liturgy was led by Fr. Jonny P.D. There were many dances during the liturgy and cultural programme. The Sisters were very happy with the convent building which is quite large. Priests, religious and invited guests were served sumptuous meal. Congratulations to Sisters of CMC and Fr. Walter Crasta!

CRI: A Brief Report of the Jamshedpur Deanery Level Meeting

The Jamshedpur Deanery Level CRI meeting  was held on 11^th November 2012 in the MDP Conference Hall, XLRI. The number of participants was  50 which included among other fathers, brothers and sisters, Fr. Mike T Raj, the Provincial, Fr. C.R.Prabhu, the Vicar General,C.L.  Fr. George, the Superior, XLRI Jesuit Community. The meeting began with an inspiring  Bhajan and prayer  by Sister Kiran, JMJ. This was followed by the reading  of the minutes of the meeting held  on  5^th August 2012  in Loyola School by Sr. Sharel, A.C. the CRI Secretary.Fr Hilary Lobo, S.J. the CRI President thereafter  announced the theme” The Year of Faith” of the conference. FR. S.Tony, the Odisha Mission Superior and the resource person enlightened the gathering by an enriching power-point presentation on the faith received at our Baptism which should be appreciated, deepened and shared with others. Then Fr. Tony divided the gathering after the coffee break into six groups with specific questions. In the groups the religious shared freely their experience of faith with one another. The reporting from each group enriched all with various action plans to be implemented in every community. The meeting ended with a meaningful Eucharist presided over by Fr. S Tony in the conference hall, who shared his faith experience drawn from the gospel readings of the mass. Thereafter deep appreciation and  praises were showered by Fr. Alex Mascarenhas upon  XLRI Jesuit Community especilly Fr. Abraham, S.J. the Director, Fr. George the Superior and  Fr.Tony Uvari,who made all arrangements for the meeting and an enjoyable and delicious lunch that gave all a true feeling of generosity and hospitality.

 P.S. The next CRI meeting will be the Annual General Meeting on 9^th & 10^th February 2013 at Jan Vikas Kendra, Sundernagar, Jamshedpur. All are welcome. More the merrier! (Hilary Lobo,S.J.)

JEEVAN JYOTHI SCHOOL OF NURSING, TELCO

On  26^th  November  2012  Jeevan  Jyothi  School  of  Nursing  braced  itself  to  take  25^th  batch  of  students  with  a  Lamp  Lighting  Ceremony.  The  theme  chosen  to  vivify  this  auspicious  occasion  was  “  Shine  like  a  Candle  never  loose  hope  and  every  long  journey  needs  first  step.”   

This  solemn  occasion  was  graced  by  the  presence  of  Chief  Guest   Dr.  M.  L.   Ali  Head,  Medical  Service,  Tata  Motors  Hospital  and  the  Guest  of  honor  Dr.  Mrs.  Rekha  Chandra,  Chief  Consultant,  Tata  Motors  Hospital.

The occasion  began  with  prayer  dance  by  the  students  which  moved  everyone    into  prayerful  atmosphere.  Then  it  was  tagged  to   welcome  the  distinguished  guest  staff,  parents  and  well  wishers  of   students.

    

The  Main  lamp  lighted  by  Dr.  M.  L.   Ali,  Dr.  Mrs  Rekha  Chandra,  Rev  Fr.  Fdwin  Coelho,  Dr.  D.  K.  Singh  and  Sr.  Heleena.  Fr.  Edwin  kindly  blessed  the  hands  of  newly  commissioned  and Dr.  M.  L.  Ali  addressed  the  gathering.

Cultural  event  followed  after  the  ceremony  and  concluded  with  word  of  appreciation  and  refreshment.

BIRTH DAYS (DECEMBER)

Date	Name
04	Ajay Tiru
04	Junas Bhengra

RIP NEWS

The life and death of each of us has its influence on others; if we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord, so that alive or dead, we belong to the Lord. (Rom.14:7-9). 

The untimely death of Fr. Michael Raj on 29^th October, 2012 gave an unforgettable shock to the Diocese as well as to all his loved ones. He was one of the energetic and vibrant priests of the diocese who worked in different parishes and institution of the diocese in various capacities. His Ministries in the diocese were as follow:

1999: St. Joseph’s Church, Anandpur

2001: Asst. PP. St. Paul’s Church Maluka

2002: Asst. PP. St. Mary’s Church, Bistupur

2003: Asst. Director of DSWC, Dhanbad

2007: Asst. PP. St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Director of St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre, Golmuri,

2011: Director, St. Joseph’s Community College, Mango, till the date.

His Requiem Mass was on Wednesday, October 31^st, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri, Jamshedpur. May his soul Rest In Peace!

Fr. Abhay Tigga TOR: His father Mr. Elias Tigga died on 1^st November, 2012 in Barbil parish at the age of 71 years.  He was sick for a long time. We wish you Fr. Abhay, a hearty condolence.

DIACONATE ORDINATION

The Diocese of Jamshedpur cordially invites all the Priests, Sisters and faithful to the Diaconate Ordination of

Bro. C. V. Alwin

Bro. Sameer Soreng

Bro. Nestor Soreng

                          By

Most. Rev. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J.

On December, 2012, 5:00 PM

At St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Golmuri, Jamshedpur.