Monday, August 31, 2015

News Letter for the Month of September, 2015

DIOCESE OF JAMSHEDPUR
                       
Vol. 45 No. 9                                      Private Circulation Only                  September-2015


                   THE VIRTUE OF HUMILITY OF OUR LORD AND OUR LADY

On September 8 every year we celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This Feast commemorates the birth of her who was to be the Mother of the Saviour because the Blessed Virgin Mary occupies a unique place in the salvation history. Our Lord reserved for her the highest mission ever entrusted to any creature. About her glory the book of Revelation says, “A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman, robed with the sun, standing on the moon, and on the head a crown of twelve stars” (Rev.12:1). Yet Mary was humble and says, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour; because he has looked upon the low state of his handmaid. Yes, from now onwards all generations will call me blessed” (Lk.1:46-49) In these words we hear an echo her great fiat: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord: let it be done to me according to your word” (Lk. 1:38).

The virtue of humility of Mary derives from the very nature of God. Humility is a virtue that belongs essentially to Christ, not only as man, but more especially as God. For the sake of his love for the human beings, God can lower and humiliate Himself. “He humbled Himself, He emptied Himself” (Phil.2:7-8). In the mystery of Incarnation we see immense humility poured out from heaven. Nothing could be more sublime than the words of St. John’s Gospel, “In the beginning was the Word” (Jn. 1:1) and no abasement can be deeper than that which follows, “And the word was made flesh” (Jn1:14). Jesus Christ calls us all into His school to learn, not to work miracles, nor to astonish the world by marvellous enterprises, but to be humble of heart. “Learn of Me, because I am meek and humble of heart” (Matt. 11:29). Jesus totally submits himself to the Father, as he says, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me” (Jn.4:34). During his agony in Gethsemane He prayed, “Father, if you are willing take this cup from me, Nevertheless, let your will be done, not mine” (Lk.22:42). From womb to tomb, Jesus revealed himself to us through his humility as the conqueror of the world, of sin, death and hell.

The Blessed Virgin Mary in all things lived the wisdom of Saint John the Baptist: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Today let us ask Our Lady of Humility to teach us this same wisdom and to show us how to live it every day. We need to accept God’s daily will for ourselves, instead of responding with impatience, anger, fear, refusal, dejection, sarcasm, mockery, or such life responses.

Holy Spirit through the mouth of Prophet Isaiah says, “Look, you are less than nothingness, and what you do is less than nothing” (Isa.41:24). Jesus Himself has said, “Without me you can do nothing”. “Humility is an abomination of the proud” (Sir.13:20).

St Augustine tells us that “Humility is the foundation of all the virtues:  therefore, in a soul where it does not exist there can be no true virtue, but the mere appearance only”. He further says, “No one reaches the Kingdom of Heaven except through humility”. St. Thomas of Villanova says, “Humility is the mother of many virtues. From it springs obedience, holy fear, reverence, patience, mildness, and peace; for, whoever is humble easily obeys all, fears to offend any, maintains peace with all, shows himself affable to all, is submissive to all, does not offend or displease any, and does not feel the insults which may be inflicted upon him. He lives happy and contented and in great peace”. St Theresa of Avila warns us saying “Whoever is not very humble, can never draw profit from contemplation, in which any little amount of insufficient humility, though it may seem nothing, works the greatest harm”. St. Bernard has said, “Humility is necessary not only for the acquisition of virtues, but even for salvation. For the gate of Heaven, as Christ Himself testifies, is so narrow that it admits only little ones”.

Each of us, priests, religious and laity should remind oneself and say, “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return”. “True self-knowledge makes you aware of your own worthlessness and you will not take any pleasure in the praises of others” (Imitation of Christ. Bk 1, Ch.2. no.1).  Let us humble ourselves with St. John the Baptist and say, “He must increase: but I must decrease” (Jn. 3:30).
                                                                                                            Your beloved Pastor,
                                                                                                            Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J.

Sacred Heart School, Adra:

                         
Sacred Heart School, Adra had organized an Inter School literary and cultural competition on 25th July 2015 at our premises. This mega event with the motto “Strive to excel” was conducted at three different venues within the campus viz. Jubilee Hall, Bio. Lab and K.G. Block, which  saw the participation of seven schools with 210 participants, covering six events i.e. quiz, debate, declamation, drawing, solo and group dance. The participants represented, besides the host school, St. Xavier’s School, Purulia, St. Xavier’s School C.K.P., Holy Cross School, Chandankiyari, Kendriya Vidhyalaya, S. E. Rly. Boys’ School, S. E .Rly. Girls’ School, Adra.

The atmosphere and excitement was really electrifying as the participants competed with enthusiasm and they came out with the best of their ability. In its first attempt, Sacred Heart School made it to be a keenly contested competition where the students were exposed to a variety of experiences.

In declamation, the famous speech of Charlie Chaplin was brought to life vividly by the participants. The judges included the noted Professor from J. K. College Purulia, Dr. Ashok Agarwal, Mrs. Ruma Guha Neogi, A. G. Church School Purulia, Fr. Saleth, Fr. Edward Saldanha, Sr. Kevin H.C. Bokaro, Mr. Moumita Das and Mr. Ramesh Rao. The peak of the programme was the group dance on patriotic theme which kept the audience on their toes throughout the day.

In spite of nail biting moments of the day, Sacred Heart School had the privilege to hold the “ Champions Trophy” on its own stage in its first ever such attempt. Three cheers to SHS, Adra. 

Green India – Green SAC Abhiyan :



Following the clarion call from our beloved Pope and his encyclical, Laudato Si, we, the Albertine Family are serious about the protection of our mother earth. Government of India has similar plans too. Dainik Bhaskar Newspaper group has initiated a plantation drive called, “ek ped, ek zindagi” and encourages people to plant at least one sapling in their lifetime. The Dainik Bhaskar requested us to be part of their abhiyan and therefore, a programme was arranged to have a massive plantation drive in the Seminary campus.

Accordingly, on 11th of August 2015 a massive plantation programme was organized. The Bhaskar team provided us one hundred various tree saplings. Earlier, the brothers had already planted 200 various tree saplings in the campus. The saplings plated so far are: Mahugani, Teak, Mango, Guava, Jamun, Champa, Sesam, Karam, Saal and many other ornamental plants. Dainik Bhaskar associate editor- Mr. Vinod and Marketing director - Mr. Anish and Fr. Raju Felix Crasta, the Prefect of Philosophy were people behind this drive. Mr. Anish exhorted the brothers the need for the green and clean campus. Fr. Rector, Minister, Staff and students were present on the occasion. (Fr. Raju. F. Crasta)

Mosaboni, St. Barbara Church:



On 4th of August, the Feast of St. John Mary Vianney was celebrated with a lot of fervor and enthusiasm. On that day a big number of parishioners came for the mass and prayed for the Priests. Soon after the mass, there was short programme by St. Joseph Convent School Children, Parish Youth and Sisters. Fr. Robert Toppo, the Parish Priest spoke on the life of Vianney and gave the message. At the end, all had a delicious cake. On the 5th of August, Fr. Cornelius Tigga celebrated his birthday. The celebration began with the Eucharistic clebration at 5.30 pm; many people came for the mass and prayed for Fr. Cornelius. At the end all shared the birthday cake.  (Dn. Baldeo Hembrom)


St. Mary’s English High School, Bistupur: Academics are of central significance in the school, but it is the extracurricular activities of the students that make them attractive and talented. The school had organized two Inter School Events. FELICITY and CYBORG; several competitions pertaining to analytical skills, writing skills and entertainments were organized. It was heartening to see the team spirit, unity, innovation, enthusiasm and high energy levels that prevailed in the campus. As expected all their hard work paid rich dividends and FELICITY and CYBORG were grand success. Our students had also brought laurels to the school by taking part in other activities. One of the leading news papers had organized a RAKHI competition in the school itself. The best ones are sent to the border for the soldiers to show our love and brotherhood to the Jawans who serve our country. Thanks to Fr. David Vincent for encouraging such activity in the school.

Where the mind is without fear and the head held high,-into that heaven my Father let my country awake”. Taking this wonderful composition of Raindra Nath Tagore as our inspiration and to ignite the spirit of patriotism in the young minds we celebrated our Independence Day with great zeal and love for the country. August 10th to 14th we   celebrated a patriotic week in which the teachers prepared the morning assemblies very creatively. On August 15, our national flag was unfurled by DR. Avinash from ESI hospital. All of us together saluted the national flag by singing National anthem.

We congratulate Fr. David, Fr. Linus, Sisters, Teachers, students and staff for their hard work and commitment in achieving the International British Council Award (2015-2018) (Sr. Mariam)

Feast of M. C. sisters, Baradwari:

The feast of M.C. Sisters was celebrated on Aug. 20th, Saturday. Bishop Felix Toppo, S.J. was the main celebrant; many priests & religious, in and around the city, along with many friends & well-wishers came to share the joy of M.C. Sisters. The angelic choir by the Jesu Bhavan brothers & the community spread an aroma of heavenly joy in the atmosphere. In the mass Bishop expressed his gratefulness to the M. C. Sisters for the wonderful service they render to the poorest of the poor. The M.C. Sisters renewed their vows at the Eucharistic celebration. A cultural programme by the inmates followed the Eucharist and a sumptuous meal was served to all present.

Certificate Day at St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre, Golmuri:

On August 24, St. Joseph’s Welfare Centre celebrated the Certificate Day, Bishop Felix Toppo, S. J. was the Chief Guest. The Certificates were distributed to the students who successfully completed their training programmes. The certificates were given for courses in computer, Forklift & Stitching. Congratulations to all the students. The other students put up a beautiful cultural programme for the Function. Varieties of talents were displayed on the stage. We thank all the teachers who worked hard to make it a memorable Day.

Marriage Preparatory Course:



St. Joseph’s Cathedral organized a three days’ Marriage Preparatory Course. It was arranged for those who are planning to get married during Christmas or New Year Season. There were 36 participants who benefitted from this course. Dr. Francis Xavier. Bara, Mr. Ronel Rakesh, Mr. Peter Bonerjee, Fr. Tobias, Fr. Jilson, Fr. Camille & Fr. Pradeep gave them inputs for their happy & successful life.

St. Xavier’s English School, Chakradharpur:  The results for the 1st term examinations were declared on the 1st Aug, in spite of the heavy downpour parents along with their children thronged to the school to collect their report cards.

On the 8th the teachers had a seminar on English Language Teaching. The training was conducted by Mrs. Reshmi Sensharma from Kolkata who is a clinical psychologist and trainer with many corporates. The seminar was a good experience for teachers, who had not experienced such sessions before, and gave others insights on their teaching methods so as to how to improve them.

The school celebrated the country’s 69th Independence day with great fervor. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Mr. Krishna Singh Dugtal commandant of the CRPF. On this day the second issue of the School Magazine “SOPHIZOMAI” was inaugurated by the Chief Guest. The children performed many patriotic theme based programmes. A sizeable number of parents also attended the function. (Theodosius Salvadore)

Vianney Day at the Bishop’s House:



The Feast of St. John Mary Vianney was celebrated on 8th of August at the Bishop’s House. It was kept on a weekend to help many to join for the celebration. The Priests, Brothers & Sisters, residing in & around the city were invited for the Feast. All assembled in the Cathedral at 4 pm for a recollection. Fr. K.M. Joseph, the Guide, spoke on the “Consecrated Life”. He highlighted very beautifully the importance of this Sacred Call. He presented to us the gospel of St. John, which narrates about call & cost of discipleship. The sacrament of Reconciliation made the day more meaningful. All in one voice appreciated the unique way of this festive celebration. Later all joined us for the festive Meal. Thanks to Fr. David and Community for the good celebration of Vianney Feast. (Fr. Pradeep Marandi)

BIRTHDAY BABIES – September
Date
Name
07
Emmanuel Horo
09
A. Alphonse
11
C.R. Prabhu
17
Nestor Soreng
19
Vijay Bhat
21
Edward Saldanha
22
Benedict Minj
27
Paschal Toppo
30
Bipin Kishore Barla

  

BISHOP’S ENGAGEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 2015


02

[\\\
Wed

09.30 am

Diocesan Clergy Meeting

Golmuri

02.00 pm

JDC Governing Board Meeting

Golmuri
03
Thurs

am-pm

RBC, CRI, Maj.Sups& CDPI Joint Meeting at SDC

Ranchi
04
Fri

am

RBC, CRI, Maj.Sups& CDPI Joint Meeting at SDC

Ranchi
05
Sat

05.00 pm

Mass at St. Mary’s Bistupur for Catholic Students

Bistupur

13

Sun

07.00 am

Confirmation and Pastoral Visitation

Noamundi

20

Sun


Erection of a New Parish

Jadugora

27

Sun

07.00 am

Confirmation and Pastoral Visitation

Dhobatand



               “Come away by yourself to a secluded place and rest a while.” (Mk 6:31)                  

Since priests are “leaders of God’s people and particularly prone to activism, overwork and sometimes a feeling of being alone in the mission, extra effort - and sometimes heroic effort- is needed to dedicate time to spiritual renewal and continuing education. We are blessed to have an opportunity to be with the Lord and to be ‘with oneself’, keeping aside all the works and worries.   

The Annual retreat for the priests has been scheduled to be held from 18th to 23rd of October 2015 at Vikas Bharati, Sundarnagar, JSR.  Fr. Peter Francis (XLRI) will be guiding the Retreat.              

Every priest in the diocese is exhorted to make the arrangements and attend the retreat. It is the Church, the people of God that benefits when the priests have the chance for renewal and continuing formation.

  
 Up-Coming Programmes – Upasana
C/O Jesu Bhavan Mango, Jamshedpur
Sl. No.

Programme

Pro. Director

Duration
Seats Available
1
Clergy Retreat
Fr. C. R. Prabhu
Sept. 06 pm -11 pm, 2015
34
2
Clergy Retreat
Fr. Fabian Bhuinyan, S.J
Sept. 20 pm – 25 pm, 2015
34
3
Religious Retreat
(Consecrate Life)
Fr. Fabian Bhuinyan, S.J
Sept. 30 pm- Oct 24 pm, 2015
15
4
Religious Srs. + Frs
Retreat (Consecrate Life)
Fr. Emil Coelho, S.J
Oct. 16 pm – 24 pm, 2015
20
5
Gestalt Therapy
Dr. Dick McHugh, S.J
Dec. 28, ’15 – Jan 4, ‘16
34
6
NLP -  Basic
Dr. Dick McHugh, S.J
Jan. 08- 18, 2016
34
7
NLP – Advance
Dr. Dick McHugh, S.J
Jan. 22- Feb. 01, ‘16
34
8
Health
Dr. Dick McHugh, S.J
Feb. 05-  09, 2016
34
9
Tools of the Spirit
Dr. Dick McHugh, S.J
Feb. 12 – 16, 2016
34

Contact : Fr. Fabian Bhuinyan, S.J

07091120815/ upasanaretreathouse@gmail.com