Servant of God Bishop Anastasius Hartmann The Maritime ...design concept Mustardtree.in printed and published by fr. Januario rebello on behalf of Delhi Catholic archdiocese design

THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF DELHI CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE VOL. 36, ISSUE 8 AUGUST 2020 `10

15Cathedral virtual meeting Parish Council

Chetanalaya- Wear Mask Campaign

33The Maritime WorldWe pray for all those who work and live from the sea, among them sailors, fishermen and their families.

Servant of God Bishop Anastasius Hartmann

HOLY FATHER’S P R AY E R I N T E N T I O N F O R AU G U S T 2 0 2 0

The Maritime World

We pray for all those who work and live from the sea, among them sailors, fishermen and their families.

fr. sTanley KozhiChira

5 The Shepherd’s Voice8 We Drink from Our Own Wells - XXXXV9 Musings of the Month10 Theology & Christian Life - 911 Special12 Christus Vivit - 714 Parish Roundup18 School Snippets28 Diocesan Digest34 National35 Youth Corner38 Calendar of Feasts

patronarchbishop anil J.T. Coutoeditorfr. stanely Kozhichiraeditorial boardaugustine KurienDeepanjali raoDivya Joyfinance and circulation managerfr. francis PrasadsecretariatTency Thomasdesign conceptMustardtree.inprinted and published byfr. Januario rebelloon behalf of Delhi Catholic archdiocesedesign & printed at Bosco society for Printing & Graphic Training,okhla road, new Delhi - 110 025Tel.: 26839864, 26910729Published by Delhi Catholic archdiocese1 ashok Place, new Delhi - 110001Tel.: (+91-11) 23343457, 23362058fax: (+91-11) 23746575email: [email protected]: Voiceofdelhi archdiocese DelhiWebsite: www.archdiocesedelhi.com

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The articles, news reports and other materialspublished in this magazine (other than theshepherd’s Voice) reflect the views of the authorsand not of the archdiocese of Delhi and VoD doesnot take any responsibility or liability for the same.

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from the editorContents

Maritime Prayer During Pandemic

Last week there was an interesting strike headed by the parish priest of Poonthura, Kerala requesting government officials to serve fish to COVID patients in

the COVID Care Centers. He argued that the secret to fishermen’s strong immunity is fish, so they must be provided fish.

I remember Fr. Thomas Kocherry CSsR, who spearheaded the fishermen welfare movement in south India came to Varanasi during my philosophy days to conduct a session on the plight of unorganized sector of the fishermen. Every word he spoke pierced the hearts of listeners like an arrow, interpreting the scripture and the plight of the fishermen.

Many priests in the coastal parishes of India are deeply involved in the life of the people, especially during the present pandemic period.

The lockdown has caused, like in other sectors, a lot of uncertainty to their lives, as fishermen are daily wagers. In these situations, quite a number of activist priests come to my mind who have been involved in the lives of people who work and depend on the sea.

Pope Francis’ video message to the Apostleship of the Sea, on June 17, 2020, said, “Your work as maritime personal and fishermen has thus become even more important, since it is providing our greater human family with food and other primary needs”.

In this month he wants all of us to pray for those who are involved in maritime life. During this pandemic period, as per the statement from the UN labor agency, anywhere between 150,000 to 200,000 seafarers are stranded at the sea. We need to pray for them and their families. Every time we pick up a fish in the market, do we ever remember the hard work that has gone into it? From the preparation for fishing, the logistics involved in bringing them to the market, enormous amount of hard work has gone in. Holy Father wants us to remember them and pray for these persons who risk their lives for their livelihood and food for each of us.

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption our Lady this month, let us pray through her intercession for these seafarers for protection and care. May Mary, Star of the Sea, guide and protect these persons who look upon her.

Happy Feast and Happy Independence Day.

Celebrate Life!

3August 2020

Lettersthank you for writing to us, we're sharing it here for aLL to read!

October 2017

Dear Editor, “Discovering Identity” by Professor Dean Fernandes, was a great read this time. Like many youngsters I also have such confusions in mind about identity. The article did really help me to realize a great line of thoughts.

Zen Johnson AyyanadGurugram

Respected Rev Fr. Stanley Kozhichira, Prayerful greetings! For and on behalf of Parish Priests and parishioners of St. Michael’s Church, Prasad Nagar, I take this opportunity to express gratitude to your goodself and the Editorial Board for publishing write-up and photographs in the Voice of Delhi, October 2017 issue on the following: "Celebration of St. Thomas Feast And SCC Annual Day" With respects and regards, Yours sincerely

C M Thomas Prasad Nagar

Dear Father, grateful to you for the monthly Parish roundups. It is such a beautiful way of sharing and getting inspired through the activities of various Parishes. Thanks for the efforts put in to get us updated with everything happening in various Parishes.

Catherine ThomasAlaknanda

Thanks a lot for the beautiful Voice of Delhi every month with a lot of creativity and newness.I would like to say the “well issue” by Fr. Maxim Pinto is really enriching.

William HeraldRohini

St. Anna and Joachim presented young Mary to the temple. Mary Presented in the Temple, Pray for us.

Dear Editor, I happy to see the changes in the Voice of Delhi and your teams effort to make it look better and readable. Kindly pay attention to the the language and spellings.

ShreedharLaxmi Nagar

4 The voice of Delhi

4 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 5

It was a pleasant surprise to all of us to see January issue of the Voice of Delhi in a new shape with quality inputs for readers. Your efforts to make the VOD classical magazine of the Archdiocese has borne fruit. Please accept our congratulations and gratitude for the initiative put in by you and your team in revitalising VOD making it the readers' delight.Regards,

A ChinnappanMAYUR VIHAR III

While congratulating you for the new look VOD, I wish I am 50 years younger to read your script.Love and prayers

KC Jacob PITAMPURA

I take this opportunity to wish VOD A Very Happy New Year and congratulate the team on the NEW LOOK given to VOD. It is very

in Christ or life in the Spirit is a life of virtue. The New Testament constantly calls us to repent and lead virtuous lives if we are truly disciples of Christ and members of his Body the Church. The call of Christian life is to have “the mind of Christ” (cf. 1Cor. 2:14-16; Phil. 2: 5-7) which leads us to “empty ourselves” as Christ emptied himself so that we become joyful people.

The beautiful words of St. Paul to the Philippians: Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:8-9).

The Catechism of the Catholic Church begins the section on “Virtues” by quoting the above words of St. Paul. Virtues are divided into “Human Virtues” and “Theological Virtues”. “Human virtues: are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections of intellect and will, that govern our actions, order our passions and guide our conduct according to reason and faith. They make possible: ease, self-mastery and joy in leading a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good” (CCC 1804). It is in the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments that give us the divine teachings on virtues. The Wisdom literature of the Old Testament is particularly filled with moral teachings pertaining to human behaviour. Human virtues are “acquired by education, by deliberate acts and by a perseverance ever-renewed in repeated efforts”, but they are also “purified and elevated by divine grace” (CCC 1810).

Four human virtues play a pivotal role in our moral life, hence they are called “cardinal” virtues. All other virtues are grouped around them. The cardinal virtues are:- Prudence “is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it” (CCC 1806). Justice “is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC 1807). Fortitude “is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his life in defense of a just cause” (CCC 1808). Temperance “is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honourable. The temperate person directs the sensitive appetites toward what is good, and maintains a healthy discretion” (CCC 1809).

The human virtues are rooted in the theological virtues “which adapt man’s faculties for participation in the divine nature: for the theological virtues relate directly to

The Little Virtues

life

the shepherd’s voiCe


The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. PSALM 19:1-2

we look forward to communicating more often with our readers, feel free to write to us, with the kind of information you would like us to include, your views on the content! Together we are the Voice of Delhi. email: [email protected]

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welcoming and refreshing. It has been given a VERY INTERNATIONAL LOOK. May God bless the team in bringing forthcoming issues successfully.My best wishes

Sophia Biju MathewSHAHBAD

I liked the entire new look of the Voice of Delhi - January 2017 edition. The change is very much appreciated and draws an instant attraction.The quality of paper and printing is of high standard and the cover design deserves special applauds. Articles are informative giving people insightful perspectives that allow to adapt the spiritual needs. Wishing you all the best and may the coming editions be of great reflections.With best wishes, Philamin PhilipALAkNANDA

Congrats on the very impressive makeover of VOD. The Look is polished and professional, the article layout very well done, as also the quality of the printing. Clearly a lot of thought and effort has gone into this remodeling and the result is there for all of us to appreciate. Once again congrats to you, and the team of VOD and Mustard Tree.

Audrey Carvalho Daver

It is with a stunning surprise to our eyes we all at our parish received the Voice of Delhi January 2017 issue having fascinating design, style, composition and as

if an international magazine of magnificence. Really incredible! It is indeed endearing. All of us at St. Michael’s Church, Prasad Nagar congratulate you and the entire team at VOD for such a marvelous make over in the beginning of its 26th year of publishing. With respects and regards,

C.M. ThomasPRASAD NAGAR

JANUARY 2017July 2020

Dear Father Editor. Kindly convey my heartiest greetings to archbishop for the very inspiring shepherds voice about cross of hope. I was very touched by this as we go through difficult times of history.

Daniel josephMehrauli

I appreciate the inspiring articles by Fr. Maxim Pinto. They are eye openers to life

Christy JosephGurugram

WRITE TO USWe look forward to communicating more often with our readers. Feel free to write to us, with the kind of information you would like us to include and your views on the content! Together we are the Voice of Delhi.Email: [email protected]

“In trial or difficulty I have recourse to Mother Mary, whose grace alone is enough to dissipate every fear.”

- St. Therese of Lisieux

4 The Voice of Delhi

The Spirit Produces Fruit in Our Lives





KC Jacob PITAMPURA







The Little Virtues

life





WRITE TO US



I liked the entire new look of the Voice of Delhi - January 2017 edition. The change is very much appreciated and draws an instant attraction.The quality of paper and printing is of high standard and the cover design deserves special applauds. Articles are informative giving people insightful perspectives that allow to adapt the spiritual needs. Wishing you all the best and may the coming editions be of great reflections.With best wishes, Philamin PhilipAlAknAnDA





C.M. ThomasPRASAD nAGAR

JANUARY 2017





KC Jacob PITAMPURA







The Little Virtues

life





WRITE TO US



I liked the entire new look of the Voice of Delhi - January 2017 edition. The change is very much appreciated and draws an instant attraction.The quality of paper and printing is of high standard and the cover design deserves special applauds. Articles are informative giving people insightful perspectives that allow to adapt the spiritual needs. Wishing you all the best and may the coming editions be of great reflections.With best wishes, Philamin PhilipAlAknAnDA





C.M. ThomasPRASAD nAGAR

JANUARY 2017

ile reading a book Breath of God: Living a Life Led by the Holy Spirit by Dave Pivonka, T.O.R. (Mumbai, St. Paul’s, 2016) I was very much taken up by the story he narrates about himself in Chapter 4 “The Spirit Produces Fruit in our Lives”. He was visiting Austria where the driving rules are very strict. One day when

he was driving through a lovely manicured village he came upon a group of school children and a police officer standing on the side of the road. Behind the police officer was a display screen that stated he was driving thirty-seven kilometers per hour; the limit was thirty-five, so he wasn’t worried. To his surprise the police officer motioned to him to pull over and he immediately began worrying. Being pulled over by the police is a nerve-wracking experience in any setting, but in a foreign country it is even worse. He was concerned about how he was going to communicate to the officer given his German wasn’t great. Thank the Lord there was another priest with him who spoke German pretty well and would be able to help him. The officer approached his car with two small school children dressed in traditional matching outfits. In the hands of one of the small girls was a large lemon. As the officer approached, he rolled down his window and greeted him with the best German he knew: “Grüß Gott” (“God greet you”). The officer proceeded to receive the lemon from the little girl and handed it to him. He then began speaking to him in German. Apparently, the two words he spoke were so flawless that the officer mistook him for a native. At any rate, he interrupted and explained to the officer that he had exhausted his German with the greeting and that he did not understand anything he was saying. The priest with him explained that he did not speak German. The officer hesitated and then chuckled recognizing the humour of the situation. He then went on to explain that the village was trying to raise drivers’ awareness about their driving speed. Everyone driving through the village that morning was stopped by the police. If they were driving under the speed limit, they would receive a beautiful, sweet orange from the children. If they were over the limit, even by two measly kilometers per hour, the driver would be stuck with a lemon. So he received a sour lemon and it left a lasting impression on him: “I will be known by my fruit”. The moral of this experience is that our lives are constantly producing fruit for which we will be known whether we are aware of it or not.

Referring to false prophets Our Lord has warned us that grapes are not gathered from thornbushes, nor figs from thistles. So also a healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit just as a diseased tree cannot bear good fruit. We will be recognized by our fruits (cf. Mt. 7: 15-18). Again Our Lord has made it very clear to us that we cannot bear good fruit unless we abide in Him: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15: 4-5). This is our mystical union with the Holy Trinity.

Being aware of the tension within us between good and evil – which even the great Apostle St. Paul experienced (cf. Rom. 7: 13-25) - we need to pray constantly to the Holy Spirit for the grace of being totally healed of our diseases and becoming personalities that produce only good fruit, fruit that helps to build the Church and human society; and this begins from the family – otherwise the ‘bad fruit’ will continue for untold generations.

Fr. Dave Pivonka applies the ‘fruit’ metaphor to the family as he shares another personal experience: “I recall my parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary attended by my four brothers, my sister, their fifteen grandsons, four grand-daughters, one great-grand-daughter (hard to get a girl in my family), and countless others whose lives have been

Wh

5August 2020


God” disposing Christians “to live in a relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCC 1812). The theological virtues are:- Faith which “is the theological virtue by which we believe in God and believe all that he has said and revealed to us, and that Holy Church proposes for our belief, because he is truth itself” (CCC 1814). Faith, which is indeed a gift of God, is “dead” if it is not allied to works (cf. James 2:26). Hope “is the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817). Charity “is the theological virtue by which we love God above all things for his own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God” (CCC 1822). This is what Christ has taught us in the new commandment of love at the Last Supper.

above catechesis on virtues is of a classical nature. I would like to also mention the “Little Virtues” which Fr. Denis Pereira of Mumbai had spoken about during a clergy retreat 19 years ago. The Little Virtues are as important to our Christian life of discipleship as the two main

categories mentioned above. WhAT ARe The LiTTLe ViRTUeS? � Sometimes it is a little indulgence, which easily pardons the faults of others, without the least desire of a little consideration for self.� Sometimes it is a holy dissimulation, which blinds the eye to the patent faults of one’s neighbours, and which is entirely different, as is apparent, from that petty vanity with which some preen themselves on discovering the secret faults of others.� At times it is a tender compassion, which takes to itself the task of mitigating the sorrows of the unfortunate, and it is a joy which spends itself increasing the happiness of the fortunate.� Sometimes also it is a certain elasticity of spirit which recognizes spontaneously and without the effort the worth of an idea which another has had before us, applauding it as a discovery, and in no way being envious of the author of it.� Now it is a solicitude which anticipates another’s need, desirous to spare the pain or humiliation of asking for help.� Again it is a generosity of heart which does anything in its power to oblige, and which when it can do but little, would wish to be able to do more.� Finally it is a sweet quiet affability which listens to the troubles of another with no apparent weariness, instructing the ignorant without the bitterness of reproach or reprimand; or it is a certain politeness which fulfills all the requirements of urbanity not only interiorly, as happens in the world which makes show of these graces, but with artless and Christian cordiality.

Affability, condescension, simplicity, kindliness, sweetness of aspect, of action, of manners, of words, such are, to resumé, the pleasant Little Virtues. However, the Little Virtues are by no means of a lesser degree than the virtues expected of a Christian as taught by St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians:

AFFAbiLiTy, COnDESCEnSiOn, SiMPLiCiTy, kinDLinESS, SWEETnESS OF ASPECT, OF ACTiOn, OF MAnnERS, OF WORDS, SuCh ARE, TO RESuMé, ThE PLEASAnT LiTTLE ViRTuES.


@archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these (virtues) put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as you teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col. 3:12-17).

would like to end with a little story that may well fit into our Lord’s teaching on going the “extra mile” (cf. Mt. 5:41): A man was asked to paint a boat. He brought with him paint and brushes and began to paint the boat a bright red, as the owner asked him. While painting, he realized there was a hole in the hull and decided to

repair it. When finished painting he received his money and left. The next day, the owner of the boat came to the painter and presented him with a nice cheque, much higher than the payment for painting. The painter was surprised:

-You’ve already paid me for painting the boat! he said.-But this is not for the paint job. It’s for having repaired the hole in the boat. Ah! But it was such a small service… certainly it’s not worth paying me such a high

amount for something so insignificant! My dear friend, you do not understand. Let me tell you what happened. When I asked you to paint the boat, I forgot to mention about the hole. When the boat dried, my kids took the boat and went on a fishing trip. They did not know that there was a hole. I was not at home at that time. When I returned and noticed they had taken the boat, I was desperate because I remembered that the boat had a hole. Imagine my relief and joy when I saw them returning from fishing. Then I examined the boat and found that you had repaired the hole! You see, now, what you did? You saved the life of my children! I do not have enough money to pay your “small” good deed.

So, no matter who, when or how. Just continue to help, sustain, wipe tears, listen attentively and carefully repair all the “leaks” you find, because you never know when God has a pleasant surprise for us to be helpful and important to someone. You may have repaired numerous “boat holes” along the way, of several people without realizing how many lives you’ve saved.

+ Archbishop Anil Coutoarchbishop of delhi

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impacted by my mom and dad. I preached about the fruit produced from their “I do” fifty years earlier. My parents’ yes to the Lord and each other has produced beautiful fruit that is concrete and can be seen” (p. 63).

These days we talk much about the ‘gifts of the Holy Spirit’, especially in the context of the Charismatic Movement, but very little about the ‘fruits of the Holy Spirit’; but without the fruits the gifts are “a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal” (1Cor. 13: 1). Our lives are producing fruit every day and we need to take time out to reflect and think about the type of fruit we are producing because our spiritual and psychological well-being is related to the type of fruit our lives bring forth. The question we need to ask is: is the fruit we are producing ripe or spoiled, sweet orange or a sour lemon?

St. Paul in his letters has spoken at length about the fruit of Christian life springing from our baptism which is the mystery of our dying and rising with the Lord. He says: “Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Eph. 5: 8-11).

Still more powerful is the imagery he presents in his letter to the Galatians contrasting the “desires of the flesh” with the “desires of the Spirit” (cf. Gal. 5: 16-25), in other words the fruit of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit. We have to remember that the fruit our life produces impacts our surroundings and the people we live with and deal with, beginning with our family. We are known by our fruit. It is also the measure for our spiritual growth. One of the ways we can determine if we are growing in our spiritual life is by the fruit. We have to ask ourselves all the time: what kind of fruit my life is producing – more of the flesh or more of the Spirit? St. Paul expresses it very clearly and without mincing words that the ‘desires of the flesh’ are destructive, disordered and ultimately lead us away from ourselves, from God and from one another. They are in conflict with the ‘desires of the Spirit’ which causes ‘tension’ within us, but the ability to recognize this conflict and the tension is God’s grace. The recognition itself that

there is this battle between the flesh and the Spirit within us is transformative and supportive of our growth in holiness of life.

If we are living by the desires of the flesh, then the fruits are obvious: immorality, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, rivalry, jealousy, outbursts of fury, acts of selfishness, dissensions, factions, envy, drinking bouts, orgies and the like. The ‘flesh’ leads us to seek more and more of pleasure with a blatant disregard for the needs of others. We become selfish, thinking mostly of ourselves, our wants and our desires. Our life is marked with impatience – with self, family, colleagues, traffic etc. We become prone to anger and bursts of yelling. ‘Flesh’ makes it hard for us to get along with people other than those who think and behave like us. We are never happy with what we have and always make comparisons. St. Paul warns that those who live according to the flesh “will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Gal. 5:21). So living according to the flesh is not a matter of a few bad habits but a consistent behaviour that closes the doors of heaven on us. It is important therefore that we make the right kind of choices in our life and allow others also to tell us what they see in us and to point out our ‘blind spot’. Of the greatest importance is prayer and regular contact with the Bible especially in a group like the SCC where we share with one another how the Word of God has touched us.

If we have the Spirit in us we will also produce the fruits of the Spirit and these are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits are a sign that our life is transformed in the Holy Spirit and protected by God. Joy is a concrete sign that the Spirit of God is working in our life. In our fast and stressful world of today patience is of a great premium and the one who manifests it is such a beautiful witness to

The ‘flesh’ leads us to seek more and more of pleasure with a blatant disregard for the needs of others. We become selfish, thinking mostly of ourselves, our wants and our desires. Our life is marked with impatience – with self, family, colleagues, traffic etc. We become prone to anger and bursts of yelling. ‘Flesh’ makes it hard for us to get along with people other than those who think and behave like us.

















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the presence of the Spirit in him/her! That person will also be calm and peaceful in most trying situations. A Chinese proverb says: “One moment of patience may ward off great disaster; one moment of impatience may ruin a whole life”. Self-control is the tremendous power of the Holy Spirit in us and integral to living a fruitful life. Lack of it is the source of both our stupid and sinful actions in life, if we examine our past. And the greatest fruit of course is LOVE which comes from my relationship with God. The more I experience what it means to be loved by God, the more I am able to love in the sacrificial way of love Jesus has taught us. Our spiritual life is a journey that leads us into a more profound experience of the love of God which purifies and transforms us. When love becomes our natural way of dealing with people we know we have become so consumed by the Spirit of God that love is our default!

There is no doubt that it is impossible to produce the fruits of the Spirit by our own power i.e., of the ‘flesh’, but by the power of the Spirit everything is possible. Our life will produce great fruit and people will notice this fruit.

It is important to remember that there is a two-fold blessing to the fruits of the Spirit – the blessing we receive as well as the blessing the fruit provides to others. When our life is producing fruits of the Spirit, we are more peaceful, calm, joyful, patient, and loving. All of this blesses us and those around us, making our lives more abundant.

A question for reflection: How would my life be different if I had more patience or any particular fruit of the Spirit?

Let me take some time out to pray asking God what fruit He would want to develop in me.

“One moment of patience may ward off great disaster; one moment of impatience may ruin a whole life”. Self-control is the tremendous power of the Holy Spirit in us and integral to living a fruitful life. Lack of it is the source of both our stupid and sinful actions in life, if we examine our past. And the greatest fruit of course is LOVE which comes from my relationship with God.

7August 2020

We drinK from ouroWn Wells - XXXXV


The Mystery Of

fr. MaxiM PiNTO

Being Human

human being is a complex being, an eternal enigma. The more we know, the less we understand! Thinkers down the ages, whether philosophers, psychologists or others, have tried their best to decode the nature of human beings, but met with little success. ‘I know him/her’ is but a white lie. One may have stayed together for years as in the case of a marriage, or, one may have been a friend for years,

who has poured out his/her heart to the other, may tempt one to say that ‘I know that person,’ but this is far from truth. For, human being is a dynamic being and ever evolving. S/he is not a thing to be known or a problem to be solved but a mystery to be lived with all its complexities and beauties. In this context, it is good to remember Gabriel Marcel, an existential philosopher, who makes a distinction between ‘problem’ and ‘mystery.’ A problem is that which presents its data objectively and which one can solve either by sense experience or by experiment. Thus, there are problems in the scientific and social order: gravitation, imposition of taxes, demonetization, etc.

The mystery cannot be completely objectified, because one’s own subjectivity is involved. We cannot place the data completely outside of ourselves. There are mysteries of knowledge, of love, of freedom, of evil, of body-mind relation of incarnation, etc. Human being as a mystery is also corroborated by present-day psychology. One may recall ‘Johari Window Model,’ a technique to understand one’s relationship with oneself and others. This was proposed by Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham (hence ‘Johari’), which speaks of unknown area of the self. The `unknown area’ is neither known by the self nor by others. Hence, a human being cannot be fully known, either by him/herself or by others.

Moreover, we must keep in mind that a person is never a problem, contrary to our day-to-day thinking. Once a journalist asked a bishop, whose diocese was mired with many complex problems: “You seem to have myriad of problems in your diocese,” to which the wise bishop replied: “Young man, I don’t have problems but only persons in my diocese.” At times, for reasons both known and unknown, a person might create a problem. In our inter-personal relationships, we must be wise enough to distinguish between a problem and a person. Mixing them up would dent human inter-personal relationships. The heads of institutions and communities must be careful not to equate problem with a person. Remember the famous one-liner: hate the sin but not the sinner.

Young man, I don’t have problems but onlY persons In mY dIocese.

The biblical writers understood the grandiose of being human. They employ sublime language when it comes to the creation of human beings. We read in the Book of Genesis: “Then God said: “Let us make humankind in our

image, according to our likeness… So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them (1, 26ff). Because of humans’ proximity with God, they become the “crown of creation.” St. Paul adds another noble dimension to the understanding of human beings: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you. If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple” (1 Cor. 3, 16-17). The Psalmists too have seen ‘hand of God’ in the creation of human beings: “What are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care of them? Yet you have made them a little lower than God, and crowned them with glory and honour. You have given them dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under their feet” (Ps. 8, 4-6).

This does not mean, however, that a human being is not accessible at all to other human beings. We know that human being’s nature is marked by inter-subjectivity; s/he draws his identity by being present to the other. In him/her, there is a readiness to receive and a readiness to give oneself to others. The other is an extension of oneself. It is in this context, many sociologists, psychologists have attempted to decode the nature of human beings. Generally, sociologists hold that human being is a social being, meaning, a human being expresses him/herself in an adequate within a social environment. Without jeopardizing ‘mystery element’ in human beings, we must make an attempt to understand him/her as far as s/he is related to oneself and other human beings, and above all, to God.

the World We liVe in – our common home ii

As we have already seen in the last article that

neither the Bible denies ‘creation out of nothing’

nor affirms that primal matter co-existed with

God quite independent of Him. Later thinkers such

as St. Thomas Aquinas would hold that there is no

contradiction in the notion of an ‘eternal creation,’

that is, the co-existence, with God, of matter that

‘always was’ provided, of course, it always remained

totally dependent on God for its existence. The Book of

Genesis makes use of the prevalent imagery and concept

to communicate a message about what the world and

human being is, and not much how it began. In other

words, the purpose of the First Book is theological

anthropology and not cosmology and cosmogenetics.

Moreover, our understanding of God would be enriched

if we look at God not so much as ‘maker of out of

nothing’ but as ‘bringing out of chaos.’ We do read

not after many verses that God made human beings in

his ‘own image and likeness’ (cf. 1, 26), which implies

that human being’s fundamental vocation is, like God,

to bring order out of chaos. S/he has to continue and

complete the work of fashioning this world and s/he

becomes most like God when s/he uses his/her unique

natural talents and capabilities to direct and give shape

and meaning to the unfinished process of ordering our

unfinished planet. This understanding also resonates

with the economy of salvation. Due to “origin of sin,”

chaos entered the world, which rendered human beings

fundamentally sinful. S/he continues to create ‘chaos’

individually and collectively. Salvation would mean

to fashion this ‘chaos’ until we become God’s perfect image

and likeness. Needless to say, Jesus has shown us the way.

Moreover, the first eleven chapters of Genesis are known as

pre-history. One of the reasons for this is the first experience

of God of the chosen people was not God as creator but God

who brought victory as Israelites had to confront many enemy

tribes Thus, God as creator was a retrospective experience,

meaning, God who could bring victory also could create the

world and all in it! In other words, the one who has the power

to ‘fashion’ or ‘mould’ also has the power to ‘create’! We may

learn a few more lessons from the creation story. First, the

origin of the world is irrelevant to the First Book. It speaks of

something else, more important, using the literary form of a

genealogy (toledoth). Often, we miss that theological relevance

when we offer literal interpretation of these texts. For example,

the Gospel of Mathew begins with a ‘book of genesis’ (cf. 1,

1ff), giving the ‘genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David,

the Son of Abraham’ (cf. 1, 1). The author is clearly alluding

to the first verse of the first book of the Pentateuch. It must

be abundantly clear that this is not chronologically accurate

list of the ancestors of Christ. Of course, it is presented rather

stylishly –broken up into three convenient part of just fourteen

generation each. But it cannot be reconciled with either the Old

Testament books (for example, Ruth 4, 18-22; I Chr. 2, 1-15)

or with other genealogy given by St. Luke (3, 23-38). Hence,

it should be clear to us that the evangelists use the literary

form of the genealogy, not to tell us exactly the historical of

a person’s (Jesus) or a thing’s (world) origin or lineage but to

tell us the role o or purpose of the person or thing concerned.


Queen of Heaven

cOlVille De sOuza

musings of the month

In the Catholic Church, Mary has several feast days and often there is more than one celebration each month in honour of Our Lady. The celebration of

these feast days can be noticeably different across the world, but it is important to know how Mary, our Blessed Mother, is honoured throughout the world. In the month of August every year, we celebrate two important feasts that of the Assumption our Lady on 15 August and that of Mary Queen of Heaven on 22 August.

Pope Pius XII established the Feast of the Queenship of Mary to be celebrated throughout the world on the 11th

of October 1954, and commanded that on that day each year, the world should renew its consecration to her. Later, it was decided that this Feast of the Queenship of Mary be celebrated instead on 22nd of August, eight days after the Feast of the Assumption, showing the link between the two celebrations. Pope Pius XII said “The purpose of the Feast is that all may recognize more clearly and venerate more devoutly the merciful and motherly sovereignty of her who bore God in her womb”. Pope Pius XII pointed out that Mary deserves the title because as she is Mother of God, she is closely associated with Jesus’ because of her pre-eminent perfection, and because of her intercessory power.

Mary is Queen, not only because of her Divine Motherhood but also because God has willed her to have an exceptional role in the work of our eternal salvation. From the moment of the Annunciation, Mary also became a queen and accordingly she being the mother of Jesus, the King of Kings, is the Queen mother. Mary’s Queenship in her earthly life, had none of the human privileges usually associated with royalty. She did not grow up living in palaces or rich homes. She had no wealth, yet, she had the greatest privilege and treasure of all: she was the Mother of God. She gave birth to Jesus and had a unique human relationship with Him.

On the day of her Assumption, Mary our Mother was solemnly crowned by Christ and received by the whole court of Heaven as Queen. As Queen of Heaven, the Mother of God, and the spouse of the Holy Spirit, Our Lady, therefore holds a special place in the hearts of the faithful.

Pope Benedict XVI said “How does Mary exercise this queenship of service and love? By watching over us, her children: the children who turn to her in prayer, to thank her and to ask her maternal protection and her heavenly

help, perhaps after having lost their way, or weighed down by suffering and anguish on account of the sad and troubled events of life. In times of serenity or in the darkness of life we turn to Mary, entrusting ourselves to her continual intercession, so that from her Son we may obtain every grace and mercy necessary for our pilgrimage along the paths of the world…”

Mary’s Queenship is recognised much for her greatness, her ability to aid those who seek her intercession, in adversity, in light, in darkness, for consolation in sorrow. Innumerable statues and images of the Virgin around the world are “crowned” — with actual crowns — to remind us of Mary’s Queenship.

We honour Our Lady as Queen when we recite the fifth Glorious Mystery of the Rosary. The title of Mary Queen of Heaven is a title of trust, joy and love. She loves us, and helps us in our difficulties. How great are these mysteries of the Assumption and the Crowning of Mary, and how thankful must we be to God for having given us such a Mother who continues to watch over each of Her children. Let us not hesitate to have recourse to Her at all time, mainly through the recitation of the Rosary and our other prayers.

9August 2020

theology & christian life - 9

SCH. WESLEY D’COSTA SJ

The Assumption of Mary into the Glory of Heaven

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated as a solemnity on August 15 in the Catholic Church. On November 1, 1950 with the Apostolic Constitution

Munificentissimus Deus, Pope Pius XII solemnly declared the dogma of the Assumption of Mary to the glory of heaven. The pope wrote: “We pronounce, declare and define it to be a divinely revealed dogma: that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.” Though the definition of the dogma came only in 1950, the Assumption of Mary has been part of the common belief in the Church for centuries.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) states: “Finally the Immaculate Virgin, preserved free from all stain of original sin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her Son, the Lord of lords and conqueror of sin and death. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is a singular participation in her Son’s Resurrection and an anticipation of the resurrection of other Christians” (CCC 966). The words “singular participation of Mary in her Son’s resurrection” indicate that this is a special privilege given to her. Mary was chosen to be the mother of Jesus and she participated in a singular way in the mysteries of his life, death and resurrection. So it is only fitting that she should also share in his resurrected glory.

St. John Damascene (676-749 AD), a Father of the Church and outstanding herald of the traditional truth regarding Mary’s assumption, spoke out with powerful eloquence when he connected the bodily Assumption of the loving Mother of God with her other prerogatives and privileges. “It was fitting that she, who had carried the Creator as a child at her breast, should dwell in the divine tabernacles. It was fitting that God’s Mother should possess what belongs to her Son, and that she should be honored by every creature as the Mother and as the handmaid of God.” It is evident that the revered Mother of God who shared her experiences of life with her son Jesus should finally obtain, as the supreme culmination of her privileges, the grace to be preserved from the corruption of the tomb and, like her own Son, having overcome death, to be taken up body and soul to the glory of heaven where she sits in splendour at the right hand of her Son as Queen and Mother.

The feast of the Assumption is significant for our faith journey in the Church. We are called to be stirred up to a

stronger piety toward our heavenly Mother. As we meditate upon the glorious Assumption of Mary, the destiny of those who are entirely devoted to carrying out the heavenly Father’s will and do good to others become clearer to us. In the pandemic of materialism, individualism, hedonism, and consumerism that corrupts the morals and destroys the earth our common home, the Marian dogma of Assumption reminds us that there is more to human life than what the world can offer to us. The dogma invites us to orientate our lives towards the heavenly destiny that awaits us even as we engage ourselves with our worldly concerns. The Assumption of Mary tells us that our bodies and souls are destined for heavenly glory.

During the present crisis caused by COVID-19 which has taken a heavy toll—12,964,809 cases and 570,288 deaths worldwide and 907,000 cases and 23,727 deaths in India as on July 14)—the Assumption of Mary brings in a message of hope and courage and strengthens our belief in the resurrection of the body and everlasting life. Our human life is fragile and the earth is not our lasting home. We believers stand firm and fearless before sickness and death because we have the assurance of our participation, like Mary, in the glory of Jesus Christ, our risen Lord.


SAINT OF THE MONTH

Servant of God Bishop Anastasius HartmannA Heroic Missionary and an Inspiration for the Missionaries in North India!

speCiaL

fr. arokiya raj J

Anastasius Hartmann, born as Joseph Alois Hartmann was a Capuchin missionary in India, Titular Bishop and Vicar Apostolic of Patna and Bombay. He was

born to peasants Joseph Hartmann and Barbara Nietlisbach in Altwis, Switzerland on February 24, 1803. He did his schooling in Solothurn and entered the novitiate of the Capuchin Order on September 17, 1821. He was ordained a priest on September 24, 1825. Until 1830 he worked as a chaplain in Luzern, then as novice master and teacher of theology at Fribourg . In 1839, they sent him as a teacher of philosophy to Solothurn. He felt a strong desire to go to overseas missions, which he reached only after much hesitation his superiors. In September 1841 Hartmann left Switzerland and moved to Rome on foot. In 1843 he was chosen for the Mission to Agra in India. After five months he headed the mission station in the town of Gwalior, in what is now Madhya Pradesh.

He was then appointed as the Titular Bishop of Derbe and first Vicar Apostolic of Patna, which was separated from the jurisdiction of the India–Tibet mission. On March 15, 1846, he was consecrated Bishop of Patna Vicariate and worked hard in founding a strong local Church in North India. Patna Vicariate, spread over 150,000 square miles, had a population of 20-30 million, of whom only 2,700 were Catholics, under the care of only four priests. Having established in 1849, an orphanage for girls at Bankipur, Patna, he handed it over to the management of the Sisters of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (now called Congregation of Jesus-CJ), in 1852.

Before he was to fulfil his mission in Patna, he was transferred in December 1849 to the Vicariate of Bombay while remaining the Vicar Apostolic of Patna. The Church in Bombay was beset with Church’s jurisdictional problems created by the Portuguese Padroado which continued to control the Church without obeying the authority of the Pope. Reaching Bombay, he took several steps to reconcile the people and clergy who were torn between the authorities of the Padroado and the Pope. Slander, threats, apostasies filled the Bishop’s cup of sorrow to the brim. Despite problems, he was able to do much for the Church. He founded the “The Catholic Standard” a periodical to meet the need of communication among the Catholic communities. But in six months it was catering for his enemies. Undaunted, he founded another diocesan newspaper “The Bombay Catholic Examiner,” which he kept supplied with editorials and articles. “The Examiner” is still in existence and is perhaps

the second o l d e s t E n g l i s h -l a n g u a g e paper in India. He also wrote a Catechism of Christian D o c t r i n e , and made plans for the establishment of a mission in Nepal. He was responsible for creating Pune as a separate V i c a r i a t e , of which he became the first Vicar Apostolic, and entrusting the Bombay Vicariate to the Jesuit Missionaries from Germany, who founded the St. Xavier’s College in Bombay.

On July July 29, 1856, he was forced to return to Rome to recuperate, but was later appointed Assistant to the Papal Throne and a Roman Count. While in Rome, he was appointed Director of the Foreign Missions of the Capuchin Order. On January 2, 1860, he was re-appointed Vicar Apostolic of Patna where he re-started his pastoral works: establishing many church institutions, founding Christian communities and so on, till his death on April 24, 1866. A scholar in Hindustani, he translated the Gospels into Hindustani, and even influenced the British colonial government in India to legislate the Christian Marriage Act.

Bishop Anastasius Hartmann died on 24 April 1866 in his residence at St. Joseph's Orphanage at Kurji and was buried in the (old) Cathedral of Patna. Today, Bishop Hartmann is a “Servant of God”. Years have passed since this heroic missionary-bishop left for his abode in Heaven, his indefatigable zeal for mission continues to inspire missionaries in North India, to work for the creation of a just and humane society.

Servant of God Bishop Anastasius Hartmann, Pray for us!

11August 2020

christus ViVit – 7

RAJEEV RANJAN, SJVIDYAJYOTI

Young Church and Her Young Children

Pope Francis desires that the Church should be young always. “The Church is young when she is herself, when she

receives ever anew the strength born of God’s word, the Eucharist, and the daily presence of Christ and the power of his Spirit in our lives.” (CV35).

Young People Keep the Church Young

The Pope wants young people to help the Church to be ever young. They can stop her from becoming corrupt, prevent her from being proud and sectarian, help her to take the side of the poor and to fight for justice (CV 37). The Pope challenges young Christians to live the life of Jesus which is based on forgiveness, service, love and prayer. He wants young people to be heard in the Church.

The young people want the Church humble enough to listen to them. They do not want to see a silent and frightened Church. They want to see a Church that defends the rights of women and stand by them. The Church should be committed to protecting women from all kinds of discrimination and violence.

The Pope gives many examples of young saints of the Church who are the reflections of young Christ. These saints tell us what the young are capable of. The good lives of young people can heal the wounds of many.

Being Rooted

It is impossible to grow without being rooted. Pope Francis points it out strongly. It is very easy to misguide and manipulate the young people when they are not rooted. They are used for personal, financial or political profits. This degrades the young. The young people should recognize real beauty. In the culture of a shallow life real beauty is confused with appearances. The real beauty lies in the sacrifices of people who give themselves generously to others in spite of many hardships.

“Christus Vivit!” is Latin for “Christ is alive!” It is the title of the Apostolic Exhortation Pope Francis wrote after the Youth Synod held in Rome in October 2018. The Pope signed the Document on 25 March 2019. This series brings the main insights of Christus Vivit to the readers of Dilli Vaani particularly to the youth.

The Pope warns young people of a false spirituality without God. A spirituality without community and without concern for the poor and those who suffer is not an authentic spirituality. A life lived superficially is not spirituality. On the contrary, the Pope shows another way of freedom, enthusiasm and creativity. The Pope encourages the young people to care for their roots in God, in Christ, in the Church. Rootedness gives strength to grow, flourish and bear fruits. The Pope asks young Christians to remain close to Jesus and experience new life. Jesus gives us life, life in abundance. If we are close to him we will have joy in our hearts and a smile on our face.

The Church of the Young and the Old Together

The past is very important for one’s own growth. Hence the Pope tells the young people to give importance to the past. The youth should respect the elders and remain close to them because they are the source of wisdom.

Intergenerational relationships are very important because each generation passes its teachings to the next. It creates a new society. The dreams of the elderly and the visions of young people need to combine to create a new society. The dreams of the elderly can help the young to have a broader vision. The wisdom and insights of elderly can overcome the anxiety of the young about the future.

Thus, the young and the elderly together can learn from one another, warm hearts, inspire minds with the light of the Gospel, and lend new strength to our hands (CV 199). The old and young “together seek a better world, with the constantly renewed momentum of the Holy Spirit.”


fr. arokiya raj J

During these days of pandemic, few crores of people have lost their jobs in India. It is the same with other countries as well. Some indeed are struggling for their livelihood. It is very saddening to listen to them who have lost their jobs and are with no work. On the other hand, we also hear complaints from many parents and elders that their children and youth are not interested in doing any kind of work or job for sustaining themselves and their families.

Work is something that humans cannot avoid. Human civilization was built on work by the labouring of many billions of people throughout our history. It was their great work that had created today’s cities, farms, industries, roads and every infrastructure that we enjoy today in our planet. Work is significant for human life because it organizes our life. Our physical and mental health is improved through work and takes care of our well-being. It contributes to our purpose and meaning in life, gives us a sense of personal achievement, personal and social identity, happiness and satisfaction, keeps us busy and energetic, and enables us to live a social life by building contacts, friendships and relationships. It helps us to build confidence and self-esteem, and rewards us financially as well.

Work is needed to live a purposeful and meaningful life. It is through which we actualise our potentials and create our individual identity and independence. It is the secret behind every human progress. It is the means for achieving our goals, dreams and aspirations.

We live in a world that gives us a lot of opportunities to find a work. Do anything that makes you happy. What you do or what kind of work you do is not important but how you do and why you do will keep your life going and happy. Do something that you are passionate about. Do a work that helps you grow and become who you can actually become to your fullest potential. Always be ‘At Work’!

WHAT’S IN WHATSAPP STATUS?

“At Work”

Position 1: Executive Assistant /Secretary to Director

Location: Head Office (in New Delhi). Primary Role: The incumbent will be responsible for day to day administrative tasks of the Directors’ Office. Besides, s/he should possess ability to do basic search for narrative / figurative data for report preparation and presentations to various stakeholders. Educational Qualification / Skills required: PG in any Discipline with strong organizational, excellent communication skills, time-management and interpersonal skills. An understanding of the development sector would be an added advantage Work Experience required: Min 5 yrs. in similar role preferably in an NGO. Salary: INR 35,000/ - to INR 40,000/- p.m. plus additional benefits. Employment: Annual contract renewable on performance basis. Encourage female candidates to apply. Position 2: Officer - Human Resources

Location: Head Office (in New Delhi); Primary Role: To assist Manager - HR in the implementation of the HR functions as per organizational policy / systems including be main support in Administrative HR; Educational Qualification/Skills required: Master’s Degree/PG in HR or Business Studies with specialization in HR; Thorough and in-depth knowledge and skills in all core areas of HRM. Ability to work independently. Proficient in MS Office Suite / Teams.Work Experience: Min 2 - 3 yrs. of experience in a similar role. Salary: INR 38,000/- to 42,000/- p.m. plus additional benefits.

Position 3: Manager - Program Finance

Location: Head Office (in New Delhi); Primary Role : To lead and manage overall Finance Management of Caritas India’s Programs in adherence to all related statutory / legal compliances including fulfilling Audit /Donor requirements; advise senior management in financial matters and interact with Donors/ Partners under multiple programmes Educational Qualification/Skills required: Master’s Degree in Finance / Accounting or Commerce; thorough and in-depth knowledge of financial / accounting / budgeting principles, skills in Program /Grants & Funds and Donor Management. Updated knowledge of legal / statutory requirements for NGOs. Work Experience: Min 10 - 15 plus yrs. of experience in Financial and Accounting Management of Development Programs / Projects with at least 5 years in similar role. Proficiency in MS Office Suite and Tally 9. Salary: Open to negotiation.

Appointment to all above positions are on annual contract renewable subject to performance. Interested and qualifying candidates may please send their CV mentioning their last drawn salary / expected salary along with 2 references with complete contact details via email to [email protected]; please mention the position applied for in the subject line. Your application should reach us by 10th August 2020. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interaction.

Caritas India, CBCI Centre,1 Ashok Place, New Delhi - 110001

email: [email protected] ; website: www.caritasindia.org

Caritas India, the Social Development Wing of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India is pleased to announce the following job openings:

13August 2020

february 2017 1514 The Voice of Delhi

speCiaL

New Delhi: Archbishop Anil J T Couto of Delhi on January 15 urged Christians

in India to muster courage to face persecution.

“We need the courage to face persecution. It can come anytime,” the prelate said while rededicating a church in an eastern extreme of the national capital that was gutted in a mysterious fire more than two years ago. St. Sebastian’s Church in Dilshad Garden was among six church institutions in Delhi targeted between December 2014 and January 2015. The attacks ended suddenly with the announcement of elections to the Delhi legislative assembly in February 2015.

The attack on the Dilshad Garden church on December 1, 2014, led to nationwide protests and drew international attention.

“Dedication of the church

Delhi’s arson-hit church rededicated

reminds our own dedication to Jesus. We need to be witnesses of Christ at anytime and anywhere. Jesus’s heart thirsts for the world’s salvation,” said Archbishop Couto at the rededication Mass that launched the annual parish feast.

Retired Archbishop Vincent M Concessao and around 50 priests concelebrated the Mass attended by hundreds of people from various walks of life.

Archbishop Couto acknowledged that help to rebuild the church came from various sources such as Bombay Archdiocese, Propagation of Faith, Nunciature and local sources.

The archbishop said the Catholic Church is not against anyone, but tries to reach out to all irrespective of their religions and other differences.

An archdiocesan official told Matters India that although

rePOrT

sTaNley KOzhichira aND arul elaNgO

both the federal and the state governments had promised to help rebuild the church, no aid came. The Archdiocese of Delhi undertook the reconstruction two years ago.

The church still waits for “a clear reason” for the fire, the church official added. Police and others dismissed it the result of electricity short circuit, while others suspected foul play.

Present on the occasion Oscar Fernandes, Member of Parliament. This is “a miracle church and it remains a powerful symbol of hope,” Fernandes later told Matters India.

Ranjit John, architect of the church, said he was happy to work on the project. “I welcome the Lord. Come Holy Spirit and sanctify this place of worship,” he prayed while speaking to Matters India. The church was opened on December 30, 2001, by then Archbishop Vincent Concessao of Delhi. It served as worship place for both the Latin and Syro-Malabar Catholics living in and around Dilshad Garden, one of the largest residential areas in Delhi.

Parish priest Father Anthony Francis said that the burning of the church was “a blessing in disguise” and as the gutted Church enabled his flock to rebuild with modernity and expansion. After the blessing of the tabernacle, Archbishop Couto handed its key to Father Francis.

The Catholic church sits between a Hindu temple and an Orthodox Christian church.

Published on: 6:12 pm, January 15, 2017 by: mattersindia.com

parishroundupChristmas Tree Celebration

AlAknAndA

Holy Spirit ChurchParish Priest: Fr. Jesuraj

The parishioners of Holy Spirit Church, Alaknanda in a yuletide cheer on 8th Jan

2017 (which coincided with Feast of the Epiphany) as they geared up to celebrate the ‘Christmas Tree’, an annual community fiesta, at Don Bosco School, Alaknanda.

The celebration of the Holy Mass by Parish Priest Fr. Jesuraj, Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Mukesh, Fr. Jerry, SDB the Administrator Don Bosco School, Fr. Diamond, SDB and Fr. Illango, SJ. The main celebrant was

Father John Maria Vianney who in his inspiring sermon called for all present to have a daily encounter with Child Jesus and celebrate the Christmas Spirit throughout the year, in thought, word and action. At the cultural event, the SCC units carols competition emceed Franklin and Nikita. Adya Binson, a Class I student opened the event with a message on the true spirit of Chirstmas. The Catechism students of the parish performed the prayer dance which won the first prize at the

A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

Move into the Freedom like Mother Mary John B Michael

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is celebrated on 15th August. On this day according to the belief of the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Churches, and parts of Anglican Traditions, Mother Mary was taken up into

Heaven at the end of her earthly life.

The Roman Catholic Church teaches as dogma the Virgin Mary “having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory”. This doctrine was dogmatically defined by Pope Pius XII on November 1, 1950 in the Apostolic Constitution Munificentssimus Deus by exercising papal infallibility.

The Solemnity of the Assumption on August 15 is a public holiday in many countries and in our country we celebrate Independence day , which British empire. On 15th August 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru the first Prime Minister of India, hoisted the Indian national flag on the ramparts of the historical Red Fort.

Thereafter every Independence Day, the prime minster of the nation, unfurls the National tricolor. A proud moment for all Indians as we celebrate liberation from British Colonialism and especially for Christians, as we celebrate liberation from the world to ethereal glory of Mother Mary, for which all of us are hoping for.

We all pray through the intercession of Mother Mary for good governance, Communal harmony and lasting peace in our country. Wish all a very happy Feast

and happy Independence Day of our

Motherland.

Sacred Heart CathedralParish Priest: fr. lawrence P. rasst. Parish Priest: fr. John Britto Xavierasst. Parish Priest: fr. shinil Jacob

ashoK place


february 2017 1514 The Voice of Delhi

speCiaL

New Delhi: Archbishop Anil J T Couto of Delhi on January 15 urged Christians

in India to muster courage to face persecution.

“We need the courage to face persecution. It can come anytime,” the prelate said while rededicating a church in an eastern extreme of the national capital that was gutted in a mysterious fire more than two years ago. St. Sebastian’s Church in Dilshad Garden was among six church institutions in Delhi targeted between December 2014 and January 2015. The attacks ended suddenly with the announcement of elections to the Delhi legislative assembly in February 2015.

The attack on the Dilshad Garden church on December 1, 2014, led to nationwide protests and drew international attention.

“Dedication of the church

Delhi’s arson-hit church rededicated

reminds our own dedication to Jesus. We need to be witnesses of Christ at anytime and anywhere. Jesus’s heart thirsts for the world’s salvation,” said Archbishop Couto at the rededication Mass that launched the annual parish feast.

Retired Archbishop Vincent M Concessao and around 50 priests concelebrated the Mass attended by hundreds of people from various walks of life.

Archbishop Couto acknowledged that help to rebuild the church came from various sources such as Bombay Archdiocese, Propagation of Faith, Nunciature and local sources.

The archbishop said the Catholic Church is not against anyone, but tries to reach out to all irrespective of their religions and other differences.

An archdiocesan official told Matters India that although

rePOrT

sTaNley KOzhichira aND arul elaNgO

both the federal and the state governments had promised to help rebuild the church, no aid came. The Archdiocese of Delhi undertook the reconstruction two years ago.

The church still waits for “a clear reason” for the fire, the church official added. Police and others dismissed it the result of electricity short circuit, while others suspected foul play.

Present on the occasion Oscar Fernandes, Member of Parliament. This is “a miracle church and it remains a powerful symbol of hope,” Fernandes later told Matters India.

Ranjit John, architect of the church, said he was happy to work on the project. “I welcome the Lord. Come Holy Spirit and sanctify this place of worship,” he prayed while speaking to Matters India. The church was opened on December 30, 2001, by then Archbishop Vincent Concessao of Delhi. It served as worship place for both the Latin and Syro-Malabar Catholics living in and around Dilshad Garden, one of the largest residential areas in Delhi.

Parish priest Father Anthony Francis said that the burning of the church was “a blessing in disguise” and as the gutted Church enabled his flock to rebuild with modernity and expansion. After the blessing of the tabernacle, Archbishop Couto handed its key to Father Francis.

The Catholic church sits between a Hindu temple and an Orthodox Christian church.

Published on: 6:12 pm, January 15, 2017 by: mattersindia.com

parishroundupChristmas Tree Celebration

AlAknAndA

Holy Spirit ChurchParish Priest: Fr. Jesuraj

The parishioners of Holy Spirit Church, Alaknanda in a yuletide cheer on 8th Jan

2017 (which coincided with Feast of the Epiphany) as they geared up to celebrate the ‘Christmas Tree’, an annual community fiesta, at Don Bosco School, Alaknanda.

The celebration of the Holy Mass by Parish Priest Fr. Jesuraj, Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Mukesh, Fr. Jerry, SDB the Administrator Don Bosco School, Fr. Diamond, SDB and Fr. Illango, SJ. The main celebrant was

Father John Maria Vianney who in his inspiring sermon called for all present to have a daily encounter with Child Jesus and celebrate the Christmas Spirit throughout the year, in thought, word and action. At the cultural event, the SCC units carols competition emceed Franklin and Nikita. Adya Binson, a Class I student opened the event with a message on the true spirit of Chirstmas. The Catechism students of the parish performed the prayer dance which won the first prize at the

First ever virtual Meeting of the Parish Council r. nihal Pedric

The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought out many changes in our individual and social day to day activities. All our

churches have been closed for public worship since end of March, 2020 and we are unable to visit our Churches

for attending Holy Eucharist. Archbishop Anil in his Circular dated 20th June, 2020 mentioned that in present

circumstances due to COVID-19 Pandemic, we cannot re-open our churches for public worship at least till 30th July as a

general norm. However it has been left to the individual Parish Priests to take a call on this issue with their respective Parish

Councils and decide on the most appropriate course of action for their Parish. In view of this, the first ever virtual meeting

of the Parish Council of the Sacred Heart Cathedral was held on 12th July, 2020 which was chaired by Rev. Fr. Lawrence.

PR, the Parish Priest. The main purpose of this virtual meeting was to obtain the views of the Parish Council members

on reopening of the Church and installing extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion. The members who have

attended the meeting expressed their opinions on reopening of the Church. There was an unanimous view that this is not

an appropriate time to open the Church as the COVID-19 Pandemic is getting worse day by day in Delhi and the Sacred Heart

Cathedral being the Mother Church in Delhi would attract many people from all over the state. Therefore, an appropriate

decision on reopening the Church will be taken later depending upon the situation. During the meeting a decision was taken

to start online Catechism Classes for Children on Sundays and the modalities for organising the same are to be worked out

by the Catechetical Department. The Parish has made a special arrangement for Confession on 20th July 2020 for two hours

in the morning from 10 am to 12 noon for limited number of people.

15August 2020

Sunday Unlockedfr. savariraj

narelaSt. John Mary Vianney ChurchParish Priest: fr. savari raj

Reopening church was out of question amid the COVID-19 pandemic till the unlock 1:0 and at the same time the church was closed till 28th June on the request of archbishop of Delhi who sent to a common circular to all the parishes in Delhi. When the archbishop asked the parish priests in consultation with parish council to take call to reopen the

church in the second common circular to the churches in Delhi, I had arranged a meeting with members of the parish council on 28th June. The parish council unanimously decided to reopen the church with standard operation procedures.

Reopening church was necessary, as well as felt need for the parishioners of St. John Mary Vianney Church, Narela after a long gap of 15 weeks. During the lockdown, Sunday mass was telecasted through YouTube channel. However my parishioners were dissatisfied because they were unable to receive Jesus in the Holy Communion. Therefore, I arranged 2 ex-ordinary ministers to distribute Holy Communion to the parishioners in their areas. Having received the green signal from the parish council, SOP were prepared and sent to the parishioners. The council also strictly warned the people to adhere to the same.

On 5th July 20 was a grace filled Sunday as it was a thanksgiving mass with 49 parishioners. Graciousness, goodness & gratefulness overwhelmed from each one’s heart to our Creator, Savior and Protector-God the Almighty for the opportunities to be close to their families and to be close to God during the lockdown.

Some of the Standard Operation Procedures followed were;

Below 10 years of age, above 70 years of age and those who are ill are asked to remain at home and pray.

Facemask is mandatory.

All have to sanitize the hands before entering the church. A special provision is made at both the entries for the same.

Sanitizing the persons.

Thermal screenings.

Participants names are registered.

Physical distance is maintained while participating in the Holy Eucharist.

At the end of the mass Mr. Henry Kujur member of parish council, thanked all the participants who strictly followed the SOP of the parish.

aUGUsT 2020


Youth Choir participated in two most coveted contests at the diocese, ‘Cathedral Bells’ and ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing

competition). The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin George.

St. John Mary Vianney church celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ, our Saviour on

24th December, 2016. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Pradeep. His homily centred, in the message of love and care towards each other. Reminding the parishioners that Christmas is not just about decorations and exchange of gifts but it is a time for us to prepare our hearts to welcome the Baby Jesus into our lives anew each year. The celebrant through his melodious singing inspired all of us to celebrate Christmas with joy and reconciliation with one another. The ecstatic parishioners made merry and danced on the beats of mandar in celebration.

New Year 2017 and the Feast of Our Lady at the thanksgiving adoration on 31st December, 2016. The Christmas tree on 8th January, 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr Anupa, where every parishioner regardless of their age participated and won exciting goodies. The day, a celebration of one family in Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful beginning of the New Year 2017. God Bless us all!

St. Luke’s Youth Group

christmas day

nArelA

St. John Mary Vianney ChurchParish Priest: Fr. Kulandai SwamiAsst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka

On Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. John Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass

presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers.

PrAsAd nAgAr

St. Michael ChurchParish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. PintoAsst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L

rohini PArish

The Church of ResurrectionParish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha

Altar Servers Day at Prasad nagar

Thanksgiving Get-together at St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar

defence colony

St. Luke’s ChurchParish Priest: Fr.James Peter RajAsst. Parish Priests: Fr.Balaraju Anthony Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu

Feast of epiphany and christmas tree celebration

The St. Luke’s Church celebrated the feast of Epiphany and Christmas tree

on 8th January, 2017. Bi-lingual Holy Mass concelebrated by Fr. Mathew Koyical. Fr. James Peter Raj (Parish Priest), Fr. Vijay Kullu &, Fr. Balaraju Swami (Assistant Parish Priests) and Fr. Amit (Nepal Province) also concelebrated the holy mass. After the Mass, the fair was declared open by the Fr. James Peter Raj, There were food and games stalls organized

by different associations of parish. Fathers, Brothers and Catechism teachers also conducted a few games, much to the surprise of the parishioners. For the Christmas tree celebrations, the catechism students were presented with beautiful gifts but also the toddlers were given small presents. Also, the lucky draw for Christmas Hamper was drawn and the prizes were conferred to two lucky winners, we’re keeping their names a secret for security purpose.

On Saturday, January 14, 2017, St. Michael’s Church, Prasad

Nagar held thanksgiving get-together function at 7.00 p.m. at the Church Complex for the members of Parish Council, Catholic Association, Vincent De Paul, Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated the get-together. Amid fun and

The Church of Resurrection celebrated its parish Christmas Day on Sunday

January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated mass. The choir along with the congregation added to the bliss by singing beautiful hymns and carols to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. The mass concluded with prize distribution of all the activities conducted, the children were awarded prizes and certificates.

Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative ‘sector-wise’game which served a double benefit; firstly to improve the bonding between people living in the same or nearby sectors and secondly to elect a member who would represent them at the New Parish Council to be formed.

Games conducted for the kids by the parish youth and food stalls put up by &for the parishioners added excitement to the event.

f e b r u a r y2 0 1 7

parishroundup

games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a number of prizes were announced and presented by Mr Rajan George, Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to one and all for their whole-hearted collaboration and support extended throughout the year 2016 in the church activities. Encouraging the parishioners to continue to raise the power of community through 2017.

Christmas Day Celebrations at Rohini Parish

◗ C.M. Thomas◗ Rosmin S Maria

◗ Ms. Anjali Thomas

◗ Vanessa Lobo


The Feast of St. ThomasJaqueline Mary

The feast of St. Thomas, the Apostle, the patron saint of our Parish was celebrated on 5th July 2020. All Standard Operational Procedures were arranged in view of the pandemic. The Parish Pastoral Council members and Catechism teachers of our Parish were invited to be physically present. In order to maintain distancing, the places to sit were

marked and volunteers helped people to seat them according to the specified distance.

Those attending were advised to come early so that thermal screening could be done. The solemn Eucharist was celebrated by all three fathers in our Parish viz. Fr. Maria Susai, Fr. Geo Jacob and Fr. Jardis Nazareth. Fr Maria Susai, in his homily, spoke about the generosity of St. Thomas. The generosity to give away his life for Christ. Generally, St. Thomas is known as doubting Thomas and his proclamation of ‘My Lord, My God’. He was generous enough to travel upto our country without worrying about his life. He became a martyr in India. Inspired by the life of St. Thomas we should be generous enough to take care of our needy brethren. Special prayers were offered for the whole community and especially for the soul of Ms. Mishel Xalxo, a young parishioner, whose untimely death is a loss to the Parish. It was a happy and refreshing experience to be able to attend mass in the Church after more than three months. About 15 people were present.

St. Thomas ChurchParish Priest: fr. Maria susaiasst. Parish Priest: fr. Jardis nazarethasst. Parish Priest: fr. Geo Jacob

r.K puram

17August 2020

february 2017 29

Sahoday Sr. Sec. School’s efforts towards Clean India was applauded by NICER (National

Institute of Cleanliness Education & Research). The felicitation ceremony was held on 13th December, 2016, World Cleanliness Convention Day at India International Centre, Lodhi Road. Selected schools of Delhi NCR were awarded for their efforts in promoting a habit of cleanliness, hygiene and proper sanitation among the students. Sahoday Sr. Sec. School under the guidance of its Manager,

Rev. Fr. Vincent Crasta and Principal, Rev. Sr. Sudha and Eco-Club has been successfully able to instil these habits among the students. The award was presented by Hon’ble Ambassador of Nepal. Among the present were several dignitaries and learned men and women, Vice Chancellors of Universities and Professors.

Sahoday now feels the responsibility of taking the cause further by attempting to educate the residents of the neighbouring colony in this direction.

Sahoday Honoured!

sChooLsnippets

sAhodAy

Sr. Sec. School’sPrincipal: Sr. Sudha BS

s.no. name of the schools nursery prt/ asst. teachers tgt pgt others

1 St. Michael's Sr. School, Gurgaon

All subjects (1) All subjects (1) English (2), hindi (1)Social Studies (1)

- Receptionist (1), nurse (1), Supervisor (1)

2 Rosary Sr. Sec. School, kingsway Camp

All subjects (2) All subjects (2) English (1), Social Studies (1), Science (with chemistry background) (1)

- -

3 St. Mary's Sr. Sec. School, Mayur Vihar

- All subjects (1) - - Receptionist (1),Counsellor (1)

4 Sahoday Sr. Sec. School, hauz khas

- All subjects (1) English (1) - LDC(with computer knowledge) (1)

5 St. Michael's Sr. Sec. School, Pusa Road

- All subjects (1) English (1), hindi & Sanskrit (1), Western Music (1)yoga (1)

1- Chemistry -

6 St. Anthony's boys Sec. School, Paharganj (Govt.Aided)

- - - - Vice-Principal (1)

7 St. Mary's Sr. Sec. School, Rohtak

- All subjects (2) - - -

8 St. Michael's Jr. School, Prasad nagar

- All subjects (2) - - -

9 St. Jude's Academy, Sonepat - Music (1), PTi (1) English (1), Science (1), Maths (1)

- -

10 Maria Manzil School, nuh - All subjects (4) English (2), Science (1),hindi (1), Maths(1)

- Office administration (1)

11 Mata Mariam Jan Seva Vidyalaya, narnaul

- All subjects (1), PTi (1) English (1), hindi (1), Maths (1), Dance (1)

Commerce (1) Science Lab Assistant, (1), Receptionist (1) , Office Clerk (1)

12 Sahoday Primary School, Aya nagar

- All subjects (1) - - Accountant (1)

NOTE:

1. Applications forms must be collected from the School Office concerned between 6th to 14th Feb 2017 (excluding saturday & Sunday) during school hours. 2. Filled forms must be submitted by hand to the Director for Education, Yusuf Sadan, New Delhi- 01 between 13th to 16th February, 2017 (excluding saturday & Sunday) between 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 4pm.3. Accommodation facility will be provided to the selected candidates in Narnaul, Rohtak and Nuh.4. Filled application forms of Narnual, Nuh and Rohtak can either be submitted to DCA Education office or concerned school. 5. Class IV posts(auxillary/helping staff) are filled through the outsource agency.6. The filled forms of the helping staff must be submitted to the school office concerned between 13th to 16th February 2017 (excluding Saturday & Sunday) during the school hours.7. Management reserves the right to call only the shortlisted candidates for the Interview.8. Filled application forms of St. Anthony’s Boys Sec. School, Paharganj must be submitted to school premises during school hours.

Rev. Fr. Vincent d’souza Director for Education

IN THE DELHI CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESAN SCHOOLSVacanciesF o R T h e Y e A R 2 0 1 7 - 1 8

◗ Miss Ravinder Kaur Channey

A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

Building a Bond with the Students- Ms. sumedha ailawadi

‘A great principal builds character, inspires dreams, encourages creativity, builds confidence, instils a lot of learning and touches the hearts of his/her students.’

True to these golden words, our Principal Rev. Sr. Merlin C J leaves no stone unturned to reach out and connect with the students. During the month of July, Rev. Sr. Merlin conducted various online interactive sessions with the young Marians. She stimulated them intellectually and asked them to stay fit and healthy, especially during the challenging times of COVID- 19 pandemic. Rev. Sr. Merlin also motivated the children to work hard and study with utmost sincerity during the ongoing virtual classes.

Through inspiring videos, our Principal dealt with various themes for different classes. The theme of the interactive session for classes X-XII was the significance of grit through passion and perseverance. She asked the students to focus on their goal and strive hard to achieve it by sheer grit and determination. With classes VIII- IX, Rev. Sr. Merlin discussed the power of never give up attitude. Through her words, she inspired the children to be optimistic even in the wake of challenges and obstacles. For the young Marians of VI-VII, the Principal focused on the merits of good manners, developing self-confidence and the power of belief in oneself.

The students were very happy to interact with Rev. Sr. Merlin. They participated enthusiastically in the discussions. This initiative of our dear Principal to connect with the students was appreciated by all. Rev. Sr. Merlin is a very enterprising principal and always strives to build closer relationship with the students. She undertakes such measures regularly to infuse positivity in the young Marians. The school expresses heartfelt gratitude to their principal for being the beacon of light in these tough times.

mayur Vihar phase iiiSt. Mary’s Sr. Sec. School Principal: rev. sr. Merlin C J


To mark the International Yoga Day on 21 June 2020, our school organised a special guided online

yoga session wherein students, parents and teachers participated enthusiastically. The theme for this year’s Yoga Day was- ‘Yoga at Home, Yoga with Family’. The programme was divided separately for the primary, the middle and the senior wing.

Our physical education instructors, Mr. Pawan Kumar Tyagi, Mr. Avnesh Mane and Ms. Santulata Yadav began the three separate sessions by doing warm up exercises and stretching. They briefed the students about the importance of yoga and how it brings relaxation, peace, happiness and a sense of well-being to people. Various asanas like Surya namaskar, Pranayam and meditation were performed. It was indeed a joy to watch the young Marians do the exercises with ease and agility.

The celebration was successful under the active and enthusiastic leadership of our Principal, Rev. Sr. Merlin C J, Headmistress, Rev. Sr. Poonam C J and all the teachers. In her address, Rev. Sr. Merlin emphasised that ‘yoga adds years to life and life to years.’ She also explained the need for practising yoga every day to stay fit and healthy, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also said that the celebration of International Yoga Day was a reminder to incorporate yoga in everyday routine to enjoy a happy life and to reduce the effects of stress and other physical ailments.

This initiative of the school, under the able guidance of our dear Principal, Rev. Sr. Merlin was highly appreciated by all. These yoga day activities brought about an awareness that while social distancing measures are adopted to fight the pandemic, yoga is a powerful tool to deal with the stress of uncertainty and isolation and to maintain physical well-being.

Yoga for Good Health- Mr. Pawan Kumar Tyagi

19August 2020

Career Counselling Webinar

Workshop on environment Sustainability- James Mathew (Xii- a)

Xavier Institute of Engineering organized a webinar on 'Environmental Sustainability' whose main aim was to reduce environmental footprints through sustainable practices. The students and teachers of our school

participated in this webinar. It was an exciting 5-week course from June 20, 2020, to July 18, 2020.

The webinar made us aware of environmental sustainability, that is, the responsible interaction with the environment to avoid depletion or degradation of natural resources and allow for long-term environmental quality. The practice of environmental sustainability will help to ensure that the needs of today's population are met without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It was attended by four students- Ashima Shibu, Irene Joseph, Shruti Sharma, and James Mathew and three teachers- Ms. Pragati, Ms. Algy, and Mr. Tomy.

The coordinators of the webinar- Mr. Ashutosh and Mr Salil made us aware of the global environmental concerns, the significance of environment management, the interdependence of species, social and industrial waste management, and about green technology and pollution control norms. The practices provided in this webinar would have a great impact on reducing the growth of environmental degradation.

Mr. Siddharth Singhal, Chief Mentor of IMS east Delhi

aUGUsT 2020

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- elisha Thomas (Xii- D)

A webinar on ‘Career Counselling’ was conducted on 11 July 2020 at St. Mary’s Sr. Sec. School for the Commerce students of class XII. It was conducted by IMS and the speaker was Mr. Siddharth Singhal, Chief Mentor of IMS East Delhi.

The session covered various courses that students could opt after schooling, top institutes available, their selection criteria and tips to crack the entrance exams. The session was an eye opener to many students who wanted to follow their passion. He also informed the children about the various challenges that students may face in different streams and also the various parameters that will help them to take the right career option in the future. Most of the students were ignorant about the diverse opportunities available in the field of commerce. So, this session was the need of the hour. It was very helpful in clearing their queries, understanding their interests and choosing the appropriate course. The students developed a clear vision about their future goal and also the right path to it. This session was very interesting and intriguing.

The students were very happy after the webinar and thanked our Principal, Rev. Sr. Merlin C J for organizing this informative webinar for them.


Soaring through the Sky: Board Results-Ms. aurita Claire John

Only as high as I reach, can I grow.

Only as far as I can seek, can I go.

Only as deep as I look, can I see.

Only as much as I dream, Can I be.

---Karen ravn-----

The Class X and XII board results, announced recently has brought immense happiness to the school and a sense of accomplishment to

our students. Yes, all had put in all they had into these exams- hard work, determination and sacrifices but there are always a few who outshine the others.

With 97.2%, Ananya Ujjain secured the first position in the class X Board exams.

From class XII – Science stream- Elna Saju stood first with 96.6%. Rohit Bhatt of the Commerce Stream, made us proud with 97.6 %.

Around 34 students scored 90% and above marks in class X exams while in class XII around 36 students got 90 and above marks.

Someone has rightly said that success is not a destination to where you ever reach. Success is the quality of your journey.

The sincerity, resilience and perseverance of both the students and teachers’ along with the motivation and constant words of encouragement by our Principal has indeed brought our school a good result and it surely gives us a further boost to do even better in the years to come.

21August 2020

International Day against Illicit Trafficking and Drug Abuse Value Yourself, Make Healthy Choices

pusa roadSt. Michael’s Sr. Sec. SchoolPrincipal: rev. Dr. sabu Joseph

St. Michael’s Sr. Sec. School, Pusa Road observed 26th June as the ‘International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit

Trafficking’ to highlight the dangers of drug use and their illegal trade across the globe. The theme of the day was‘Together against Drugs’.

Curiosity, need for adventure and excitement and experimentation are some of the common causes which motivate youngsters towards drug and alcohol abuse. “Prevention is better than cure”, hence to create awareness on drug abuse, students of class X, XI & XII performed a variety of activities to convey the message such as poster and collage making,slogan writing, speech, self-composed poetry, dance and mono-acting. The aim was to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society and achieve an international society free of drug abuse. Poem by Aashvi Katyal of XII Diamond, speeches by Chirag Kathuria of X Ruby and Gursimar Kaur of XI Emerald were broadcasted by External Services Division of All India Radio in the evening.

All the participants were appreciated by the teachers for bringing out their artistic side and keeping up their spirits in the lockdown by making right use of the opportunities coming their way. The event was a serious effort by the school towards the journey of developing our lives, our communities and our identities without drugs.

aUGUsT 2020

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International Mango Festival (9th July 2020)“Every day is Mangonificent”

As soon as we hear the word ‘Mango’, the king of fruits brings memories of one of the most loved festivals of Delhi called the International Mango Festival. Every year, Annual Fair is organized to celebrate multifarious Mangoes as they are considered to beauspicious and a symbol of life (with reference to the 'Vedas' and 'Upanishads'). The

festival is aimed at providing exposure to the domestic mango industry and exporters, as well as promote tourism.

This year too this festival was celebrated with elatedness, zeal and fervor. The students of class 9th of St. Michael’s Sr. Sec School, Pusa Road made use of Online Platform to share their love for mangoes. They made videos giving the importance of the day and also preparedsome spectacular delicacies using mangoes. They then clicked pictures, tasted their dishes and had the exhilarating feeling of summers.

Aman Singh of Class IX Ruby turned out to be a winner with his marvelous Mango Pastry recipe and video presentation.

The students enjoyed this kitchenette experience and made the day memorable for all.

Message From Archbishop of Delhi, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Anil J.T.Couto-seema narang

On 1st July 2020 Archbishop of Delhi and President of the Diocesan Schools, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Anil J.T. Couto,

addressed the staff, parents and students of St. Michael’s Sr. Sec School, 3 Pusa Road. In these trying times of inconvenience and discomfort, he expressed his deep concern for the poor, migrant labourers and those left jobless as a result of this COVID-19 pandemic.

As we commenced the Academic Year 2020-21 post summer vacation, His Grace reflected on solidarity, neighbourly goodness and kindness with other human beings. Our force and strength in creating human bonds, spreading love, care and kindness should be a part of our educational journey to evolve as new persons, entrusting ourselves to God with faith and hope.

Teachers and students watched the video on Google Classroom and shared their thoughts with each other. His Grace inspired the staff and students to start this academic session with renewed energy and determination. Parents appreciated the thoughtfulness of His Grace and felt comforted by his positive message.

23August 2020

Salute the Doctors, Support the earth and Spread Cheer with Jokes-seema narang

Well, the saying goes correct, 'Not all heroes wear capes, some wear stethoscopes.'

Doctors have become the new version of our knight in shining armours to battle the pandemic. Amid Corona virus crisis across the world, National Doctor's Day, celebrated on 1st July 2020 held special significance. The day offered us an opportunity to express our gratitude towards doctors for their dedicated round the clock service in the current

era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Students of St. Michael’s Sr. Sec.School, 3 Pusa Road made sure that they didn’t lag behind in wishing God's gift to mankind.

Students of class 1st-3rd thanked and appreciated the bravest heroes by showcasing their talents. They acted as doctors and described their sacrifices and hard work. They also demonstrated ways in which they serve humanity and keep everyone protected in this situation of pandemic.

On the same day annual tree planting movement Van Mahotsav was celebrated. Across India millions of trees are planted on this beautiful day. Students of class 4 and 5 were educated on awareness of tree plantation among people to prevent global warming and pollution. Students prepared posters and collages to display preservation of trees for ecological balance.

1st July is also observed as International Joke Day. This day is the best way to start the second half of the year with chuckling, smile and laughter especially in this time of stress and worries.To spread happiness in this time of stress and uncertainty, students of class 8th were given the choice of preparing a rib-tickling video cracking jokes, funny poster with socially enriching / relevant message or a video mimicking their favourite leader, actor or comedian.

The activities were successfully conducted where in students participated with full vigour and enthusiasm. They had put in their best efforts to honour doctors, to support trees and to spread happiness with a bag full of jokes.

aUGUsT 2020

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SPIN- A- TALe: Programme for Children“Success is a series of small wins.”

- Jamie Tardy

Sahitya Akademi, an autonomous organization of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, organized a programme for children called Spin-a-Tale on Saturday, 29 February 2020 during its annual Festival of Letters 2020 held from 24 to 29 February 2020 in New Delhi. More than 200 students participated from various schools.

The programme comprised Poetry Writing, Short Story Writing and Drawing competition. The Subject for all the three competitions was-“Conservation of Mother Nature”.

Chirayu Kumar, a student of St. Michael’s Sr. Sec School, Pusa Road studying in class 8thparticipated in all three events and won the FIRST PRIZE in Short Story Writing Competition along with a Cash Prize of Rs. 2000/-

Our students continue to shine with Glory and Pride. Chirayu brought laurels to the school by bagging the first position and we feel proud of his achievement.

Model United Nations (MUN)“An opportunity to create wide networks and connections with people all around the world...”

Model United Nations also known as MUN, an education simulation conducted Online Conference on 23rd and 24th June 2020. 24 student delegates of St. Michael’s Sr. Sec. School, 3 Pusa Road participated in this conference. A training session for the same was conducted on 17th June 2020 for classes 9th –12th by BHARAT vIKAS PARISHAD (YOUTH FOR DIPLOMACY).

Student delegates were registered under various committees to discuss some prominent agendas.

The Major Committees were:

• WHO (World health organization)

• AIPPM (All India Political parties Meet)

• UN-WOMeN (United Nations Entity for Gender equality of empowerment of women)

• IP (International Press)

• CCC (Continues Crisis Committee)

Many schools and universities across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh participated in this event. Amidst the tough competition, our children debated, formulated and resonated their ideas on various agendas like Provisions to improve Primary Healthcare Systems in the light of COVID-19, Elimination and Prevention of Violence against Women, Girls and Female refugees, In-cursion of Chinese troops in Galwan Valley and United Nations Human Rights Council. It was in fact a great platform for our youth to work for the society and become global change leaders.

25August 2020

Flying Colurs in Cent PercentageMs. zeeta

Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi (Member of Parliament, New Delhi – Lok Sabha, Advocate Supreme Court of India) was the Chief Guest of the day.

5 students brought laurels to the school by receiving acknowledgment and awards for their skilled presentation:

Delegate Ms. vanshika Rawat - 9 Ruby (2nd Honorablemention in AIPPM Committee)Delegate Master Jaskaran Singh - 10 Ruby (Special Mention 1 in AIPPM Committee)Delegate Master Shivansh Pasricha - 9 emerald (2nd Honorable mention in CCC)Delegate Ms. Yashnaverma - 9 Ruby (4th Honorable mention in AIPPM)Delegate Master Rajat Sharma - 11 emerald (2nd Special mention in AIPPM)

We are grateful to Rev. Dr. Sabu Joseph, our Principal who is ever ready to guide and support us in helping our children to become global citizens.

The age old saying reminds that hard work always pays off in life. And our school students have proven that, it is true even today.

It is a proud moment for St. Mary’s that Marians have brought laurel to the school, repeating its proud histoy of achieving

100 % results. This has been a practice and tradition ever since Fr. Jas Elanjikal took charge as principal of St. Mary’s Sr.

Sec. School, Bahu Akbarpur. We are happy to share that all the students of class X and XII who appeared for CBSE Board

Examination in the session 2019-20 passed with flying colours. In class XII (Science Stream) total 22 students appeared for

the exam, out of that 9 students secured A+ and all the other students secure a distinct position. Yashasvi is the topper with

94.2%,2nd Deepanshu with 93.2%, 3rd Yogita with 89.6% and 4th Abhay Singh with 89.2%. In class 10th, 65 students appeared

for the exam, out of which, 39 students secured A+ and all the students were able to pocket high scores. Savina is the topper

with 94.6%, 2nd Sagar Gulia with 93.6 % and 3rd Ronak & Nidhi with 93.4% . This indeed shows how hard everyone laboured

for such an incredible result. Fr Jas ( Principal ) congratulated all the students for the excellent performance and extended

his heartiest conratulations and gratefulness to all the teachers and parents for their hard work and cooperation. He gave

blessings to all the students for their bright future.

rohtaKSt. Mary’s Sr. Sec. SchoolPrincipal: fr. Jas elanjikal

aUGUsT 2020

schoolsnippets


sonipatSt. Jude's AcademyPrincipal: fr. Kulandai samy

Yet Another Meritorious Batch!!!!

Greetings!

St. Jude’s Academy, Sonipat is pleased and proud to share highlights from the second batch of Class X (CBSe 2019-2020). Once again our students have earned a comprehensive range of excellent individual scores with a composite average that epitomizes excellence and hard work. This batch carried out the lineage set by the first ever batch of Judeans and in fact further carried the flag of Jude’s to new heights. This year we had a batch of 53 students, an impressive 96.22% scored the first division and 11 students came out with above 90%. We are pleased with how well our students have done overall, especially in core subjects such as english (92), Hindi (95), Math (98), Science. (89), S. St. (96) and Computers (98). The marks in bracket is the score of respective subject topper.

Daksh Lakra has topped the school with 95.20% 5-subject average. Shrey stood second with 93.2% and Aditya and Bhavdeep bagged the third position with 92.8%. We are glad with the healthy sense of competition in each upcoming batch at our school. As we grow with each successive batch coming out with flying colours, we strive to continue to reflect our commitment to full inclusion.

We are pleased that the Principal Fr. Kulandai Samy, staff and students all strive towards a common goal and measure success by their hard work and steady improvement.

It is rewarding to observe the tremendous growth demonstrated by students who exceeded their own wildest dreams, even in the face of challenges they had to overcome, and we are particularly grateful for the mentors who never lost faith in them.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to the students, their families and teachers, all of whom have contributed to this achievement.

Warm Regards,

Ms. Nisha DahiyaTGT englishSt. Jude’s Academy, Sonipat

27August 2020


A New Team for CRI Delhi Unit

In a meeting held on January 14 at Jesus and Mary School Hall, the Conference of Religious India, Delhi Unit elected its new officials. The former team led by Fr. Poulose Mangai, SJ completed its term in

December 2016. The new team consists of Sr. Babita Kumari, Medical Mission (President), Fr. Valan Antony SJ (Vice President), Sr. P. Mary Shanti RJM (Secretary), Sr. Evelyn Menezes DHM (Treasurer), Sr. Mary Sebastian DSP, Sr. Jovianna & Sr. Tresa CHF (Exec. Councillors). The members of CRI Delhi Unit include all the consecrated persons of Delhi, Faridabad and Gurgaon dioceses who reside within the territory of the Delhi Archdiocese. The new team will hold office for three years.

dioCesandigest

Parents searching marriage proposal for their daughter, Roman Catholic, Mother

Tongue bengali, 29 years, 5’3” born and brought up in Delhi, fair and beautiful pleasant looking, convent studied from Delhi. Post graduate and pursuing M.b. A in hospitality.Currently working in kuwait as a store Manager.

9582831644, 9811888292, 9711386984

Alliance invited for north indian Roman Catholic boy 38/5’6”/12th pass working

in back office in a reputed hotel in bangalore. Looking for suitable working girl.

9899802613.

Parents seeking alliance for their daughter Roman Catholic, 32 years. 5’8” wheatish

complexion born and brought up in Delhi, b.A., b.Ed, convent educated from Delhi. Working in a very reputed iCSE school in Delhi as a pre-primary teacher, full-scale salary. Proposals invited from educated RC boys non-smoker, holding a fixed job in Delhi/nCR.

9717622840

SOULMATEAlliance invited for north indian Roman

Catholic girl 33 years, degree in Fashion Designing, working in SPA, Delhi. Proposals invited from educated RC boys.

7838028155, 9910882974

Alliance invited from suitable boys for RC girl (keralite) born and brought up in

Delhi, 26 years, 165cm, slim and fair. bTech (ECE) currently working with TCS, Gurgaon, Delhi nCR as System Engineer, upper middle class family.

9650517755 [email protected].

Catholic Tamilian, Vellalar family seeks alliance for their son 32 years old, 5’8”,

fair, born and brought up in Delhi, currently settled in bengaluru and working as a senior Consultant in a private company. Proposals are invited from RC, Tamil girls.

09591363149

Parents searching for their daughter 28 yrs., 5’, fair, beautiful, convent studied from

South Delhi, MA (Eng.), diploma in Office management, stenography. Proposals from north indian RC family invited.

9891510123

Alliance invited for a well educated and settled boy, 31/5’9”, Post graduate in

Mass Communication, presently teaching (Choreographer) at Gems international Public School, Gurgaon. Looking for a well-educated and working Roman Catholic girl.

9810550815

Alliance invited for keralite Roman Latin Catholic girl 26 years, 155cm, born and

brought up in Delhi, fair and pleasant looking, b-Tech(Computer Science), working as computer teacher in a reputed conent school in Delhi.

9810909862, 9718188552.

Alliance is invited from the parents a well reputed family of Delhi for their daughter

M.A., b.Ed., working in a reputed English Medium Senior Secondary School in Delhi. Age-28 years. interested candidates having good family background may apply through:


RC Goan girl, 28 years, height 5’5”, born and brought up in Delhi, teacher by profession.

Employed boys with a minimum qualification of a Masters degree may send details. Please do mention contact number.

[email protected].

◗ Poulose Mangai

A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

Connect, Create & Communicate elizabeth antony, secretary, Women’s Commission Catholic archdioces of Delhi.

W o m e n ' s c o m m i s s i o n

The three “C” s for a Virtual Classroom.

Ever since lockdown started, teachers of most of the private schools turned into

online teaching without any training. Distant education was happening even

when there was more strict physical distancing and social distancing was at the

helm in different communitites. That time the Guru, usually a Brahmin, sat at the

padipura and imparted knowledge embedded low caste, and listened from behind

the walls and the study material was embded on palm leaves and thrown in to

the house.

In an actual classroom or in a virtual classroom the foundation is the positive

relationship. Teachers perform the best when they have the freedom to innovate

in the clasroom and more guidance from the administration asnd seniors

enhance performance of students and work satisfaction for teachers.

To give an experience of school, there could be YOGA practices for students and

even parents can join, so that the school times becomes a family time. Morning

assembly and recorded announcements, the usal hymns and prayers are must. It

is the moral responsibility of each educator for the holistic development of each

child entrusted to your care. There are chances of children developing physical

and psychological problems. So along with normal teaching, regular interactions

with students is very important. To share what we have is physical, but share

what we are, and that calls for a healthy relationship. The messenger must not

only have the message in him, but the himself should be in the message.

How to mitigate the impact of social isolation?

As the adolescents prefer their friends for everything more than the parents, let

us take advantage of the situation by encouraging peer – peer connection and

let the pen pals become the phone pals. Parents and teachers should be aware

about the emotioal load of being separeated from the friends. Some schools have



A New Team for CRI Delhi Unit

In a meeting held on January 14 at Jesus and Mary School Hall, the Conference of Religious India, Delhi Unit elected its new officials. The former team led by Fr. Poulose Mangai, SJ completed its term in

December 2016. The new team consists of Sr. Babita Kumari, Medical Mission (President), Fr. Valan Antony SJ (Vice President), Sr. P. Mary Shanti RJM (Secretary), Sr. Evelyn Menezes DHM (Treasurer), Sr. Mary Sebastian DSP, Sr. Jovianna & Sr. Tresa CHF (Exec. Councillors). The members of CRI Delhi Unit include all the consecrated persons of Delhi, Faridabad and Gurgaon dioceses who reside within the territory of the Delhi Archdiocese. The new team will hold office for three years.

dioCesandigest

Parents searching marriage proposal for their daughter, Roman Catholic, Mother

Tongue bengali, 29 years, 5’3” born and brought up in Delhi, fair and beautiful pleasant looking, convent studied from Delhi. Post graduate and pursuing M.b. A in hospitality.Currently working in kuwait as a store Manager.

9582831644, 9811888292, 9711386984

Alliance invited for north indian Roman Catholic boy 38/5’6”/12th pass working

in back office in a reputed hotel in bangalore. Looking for suitable working girl.

9899802613.

Parents seeking alliance for their daughter Roman Catholic, 32 years. 5’8” wheatish

complexion born and brought up in Delhi, b.A., b.Ed, convent educated from Delhi. Working in a very reputed iCSE school in Delhi as a pre-primary teacher, full-scale salary. Proposals invited from educated RC boys non-smoker, holding a fixed job in Delhi/nCR.

9717622840

SOULMATEAlliance invited for north indian Roman

Catholic girl 33 years, degree in Fashion Designing, working in SPA, Delhi. Proposals invited from educated RC boys.

7838028155, 9910882974

Alliance invited from suitable boys for RC girl (keralite) born and brought up in

Delhi, 26 years, 165cm, slim and fair. bTech (ECE) currently working with TCS, Gurgaon, Delhi nCR as System Engineer, upper middle class family.


Catholic Tamilian, Vellalar family seeks alliance for their son 32 years old, 5’8”,

fair, born and brought up in Delhi, currently settled in bengaluru and working as a senior Consultant in a private company. Proposals are invited from RC, Tamil girls.

09591363149

Parents searching for their daughter 28 yrs., 5’, fair, beautiful, convent studied from

South Delhi, MA (Eng.), diploma in Office management, stenography. Proposals from north indian RC family invited.

9891510123

Alliance invited for a well educated and settled boy, 31/5’9”, Post graduate in

Mass Communication, presently teaching (Choreographer) at Gems international Public School, Gurgaon. Looking for a well-educated and working Roman Catholic girl.

9810550815

Alliance invited for keralite Roman Latin Catholic girl 26 years, 155cm, born and

brought up in Delhi, fair and pleasant looking, b-Tech(Computer Science), working as computer teacher in a reputed conent school in Delhi.

9810909862, 9718188552.

Alliance is invited from the parents a well reputed family of Delhi for their daughter

M.A., b.Ed., working in a reputed English Medium Senior Secondary School in Delhi. Age-28 years. interested candidates having good family background may apply through:


RC Goan girl, 28 years, height 5’5”, born and brought up in Delhi, teacher by profession.

Employed boys with a minimum qualification of a Masters degree may send details. Please do mention contact number.

[email protected].

◗ Poulose Mangai

P.T periods, singing, vocal and instrumental and even dance classes in the online platform. Teachers

should regularly engage with parents, discuss attitude to aptitude, as that will have a positive impact

on the performance of the child. As the wise say, imaginations become innovations and dreams become

goals. Each mentor should guide the kids, specially the age group of 11 to 15, so that they should have an

ambition or set a goal. It is not necessary that the kid should be the topper or score very high in school. If

the mentors can create a desire, that itself will be like 50% of the job done. Here the educator must have

all the tactics and each child should feel wanted or must have a sense of belongingness. Hence analyze

your feedbacks, invest more on positive feedback and drop together all your negative feedbacks.

The purpose of positive relationship is to ensure maximum participation. Prepare the lessons well in

advance, class notes, self made videos, downloaded videos all must be handy. Asking questions based

on videos, displaying their work, answres, drawings, painting etc. or any activity done during the

class would encourage more involvement. Less text on presentation, using more graphics, diagrams,

animations, videos or related picures create more interest in the class.

Plan for classroom management is must. Dedicate time for question answers, ask questions to various

students, call them by their names or use breakup rooms for discussions in small groups. Since technical

issues may arise anytime, the teachers should share class notes and allow recording if possible. Podcasts

and audio clips also help. Books should be selected according to the class and encourage discussions

about different characters or the perspectives of the author. Children could make new dictionary of

words and meanings from the daily news paper. Google docs for writing in any language and google

forms for feedback can be used.

Be kind and respectful. Have an open and honest communication. Accept your difficulties in using

technology. Appreciate those who are regular, active and supportive. A pat from the parent(parents are

also listeners) or a warm and encouraging look can pay great tributes.

Don’t forget to make students clap, act, read or sing or mimic in the class. Let their cameras turn on and

cheer them up. Regular counselling for parents are more important as they are the major stakeholders

in this online paradigm. Only parents can ensure regularity, punctuality and readiness for the class.

Parents should nurture their kids honestly and carefully. As it is also a time of tribulation for most

families, supporting each other is the mantra to survive and overcome. The outcomes would depend on

the socio-economic background, literacy of the mother, size of the family and availability of gadgets

and know-how of technology.

If the people of goodwill can help in reach the ration and other help in door-to-door by maintaing the

physical distance, why not we help the poor students with gadgets ?

How can someone blind themselves to the urban poor and their children? As we are racing to enable and

enhance the privileged section of the society, are we loosing our morale ? Can we bring to the notice

and urge each state government to have their register for this exodus ? Do the states who make use

of the service of migrants have a duty to care for their kids at least compulsory primary education?

Respected educators, be proactive and let the family members understand your challenges. I conclude

by quoting from a report in ‘The Hindu’ “In early childhood, the child’s brain develops everyday. For

brain development, children need to receive the right kind of stimulation, which only teachers can

provide.

29August 2020

circular archbishop


The Holy Family of Celebration!

The very hectic commitments and problems of monstrous proportions, the crippling

effects of the sudden demonetization of old Currency Notes, failed to dampen our enthusiasm and efforts to prepare for the eagerly awaited Christmas Season 2016.

Our Choir led by Fr. Sherin Thomas and Fr. Arockia Dass, sang Christmas Carols at the campus from 21st and on the Hospital Floors on Christmas Eve, spreading joy and solace all around. A Cultural Programme was presented by the Doctors, Staff and Students at the Auditorium from 3 to 5 PM on 23rd. The participants displayed

Second and Third respectively for the quality of Decorations. A Special Prize was awarded to the Maintenance Department who constructed the iconic Nativity Crib in front of our Main Entrance. The Nursing School and College organized a Vandana Christmas Prayer Service at the Auditorium at 3 PM on 24th, which was followed by a High Tea. Christmas Liturgy was conducted at the same venue from 10 PM on Christmas Eve. Holy Mass was conducted at the Hospital Chapel at 8.30 AM on Christmas Day.

On the last day of 2016, a Thanksgiving Prayer was organized by Nursing Service at 3 PM. After

the prayer, Fr George PA, Director, Holy Family Hospital, awarded prizes to the winners of various competitions and felicitated each participant of the Cultural Events. The Sisters at Asha Bhawan offered Adoration and Thanksgiving Prayers at the Hospital Chapel from 8 to 9 PM. The New Year's Eve Celebrations commenced at 9.30 PM and carried on with full enthusiasm and fervour till the Burning of the Bogey Man at Midnight. The New Year commenced with Holy Mass at 6.30 AM followed by the Annual Lunch for the entire Staff and all students, on 02nd January 2017, which was blessed with the presence of His Grace, Rev Anil J.T. Couto Archbishop of Delhi.

Priestly Ordination of Fr. Robert Swamy, conferred by Most Rev. Anil J.T.Couto was held

at St. Anthony’s Shrine on Tuesday, the 27th December 2016, an historic event for the Paharganj Parish.

Fr. Robert was born on 07th November 1978 at Martalli and belongs to Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Diocese of Mysore. Having completed his school studies from St. Mary’s composite Junior College, studied his Graduation at St. Philomena’s College and completed his B. Ed. from the University of Mysore. In 2001, He gained his Masters in English Literature from Karnataka State Open University.

Nurtured by his Parish Priests who gave enough opportunity to serve in the church and later as youth, in 2006 Fr. Robert discerned his vocation and joined ‘Vinay Gurukul’, the minor Seminary of Archdiocese of Delhi. In the year 2010, he completed his Philosophy from St. Pius College, Bombay. Did his regency at Catholic Mission, Nuh and completed his 4 years of

Ordination of Fr. Robert Swamy conferred byMost Rev. Anil J.T.Couto, Archbishop of Delhi

Theology from Vidyajyoti College of Theology, Delhi. He served in Rosary Junior School at Narela, St. Mary’s Senior Secondary School and St. Mary’s Boys Hostel at Rohtak. Ordained as Deacon on 21st June 2014, he did his Diaconate Ministry at St. Mathew’s Church, Laxmi Nagar and Good Shepherd Church, Hauz Khas.

In July 2016 Fr. Robert was appointed as Administrator of St. Anthony’s Boys Secondary School and for diaconate ministry at St. Anthony’s Shrine, Paharganj. Fr. Robert has chosen “Do Whatever He tells you” (John 2:5) as his motto and commits himself completely to Lord Jesus Christ and become an effective instrument to serve Him as a Priest for the Archdiocese of Delhi.

Archdiocese of Delhi congratulates Fr. Robert and pray that God bless him abundantly that he may remain faithful to his vocation. May Fr. Robert continue to be sustained by His grace and may his life in God’s service always be filled with joy.

“Gold and silver i have none, but i tell you, in the name of Jesus get up and walk.”

The Seminarians of the Archdiocese of Delhi had a Christmas gathering on 27th December 2016 at St. Michael’s School, Gurgaon. The Seminarians studying in various seminaries: Jalandhar, Ranchi, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and Vinay Gurukul participated in the gathering. holy Eucharist offered by the his Grace Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto and was concelebrated by Fr. John Monteiro and Fr. Jais A.

Christmas Gathering for Delhi Seminarians

Archbishop in his homily emphasized the importance of vocation and exhorted those present to follow the integrity of priesthood in its original form like Jesus Christ. he further added, “Priests must be able to tell the people those in need the words of St. Peter, “Gold and silver, i have none, but i tell you in the name of Jesus get up and walk.” Money, power and possession have replaced Christ. Jesus’ model of authority is of service not of autonomy and dictatorship.”

The mass was followed by Carols and introduction of brothers. Various interactive games added fun to the gathering. Each received Christmas gift from the Archbishop as well. This was followed by a delicious meal after which the brothers dispersed to their respective places of ministry.

amazing talent in traditional and contemporary dances, singing and instrumental music, keeping the audience entertained. The Crib Competition was conducted on 22nd with Fr. Joseph and Fr. Jerry of the OCD and Fr. Ajit of the Delhi Archdiocese as the judges for the event. The Nursing Hostel won the First Prize for the Outdoor Category, followed by the Herbal Garden and the Linen and Laundry Departments. In the Indoor Category, The Cathlab were awarded the First Position, followed by the Dialysis and Emergency Treatment Departments. The Second Floor, Third Floor and the Cathlab were adjudged First,

◗ Br Richard Jose

◗ Stanislaus

◗ Baljeet K Arun

f e b r u a r y2 0 1 7

dioCesandigestaUGUsT 2020


31August 2020

Nightingale Challenge: A Global Initiative to Nursing Leadership

“It is essential that nurses are enabled to play a bigger role in multi-disciplinary teams, working to their full potential to innovate, to lead and to advocate,” said Annette Kennedy, President of the International Council of Nurses (ICN). The year 2020 is chosen as the year of the Nurse and theMidwife by WHO. TheNightingale

challenge was launched at International council of nurses congress to inspire the next generation of nurses and midwives as practitioners, advocates and leaders in health. It aims to improve the health globally by raising the profile and status of nurses. The students and Nursing staff of Holy Family Hospital had taken up the Nightingale Challenge.The students of M.Sc. nursing 2nd year organised a webinar for three days (15th, 16th and 17th July from 1pm to 4 pm )under the guidance of Prof. Cimil Babu (Webinar Coordinator). Student coordinators were Ms.Bandhu Sharma and Ms. Yamini Verma. The webinar was inaugurated by Prof Dr. Raminder Karla, Principal, Holy Family College of Nursing. Due to the current situation of pandemic COVID-19 outbreak the webinar was the best mode adopted to encourage the young nurses to learn about leadership.

The webinar was focussed on developing leadership and administrative skills especially in young nurses. The topics covered were relevant to the practical aspects and ensured that the participants give their valuable ideas and opinions on the given topics. The topics discussed during the webinar were: Concept of administration and leadership, emerging roles of nursing leadership, communication, critical thinking, time management, discipline and conflict management, emotional intelligence, problem solving and team management. The sessions were attended by the faculty, staff and students of Holy Family College of Nursing. The three days webinar had proven to be beneficial for the participants from their feedback. On the 3rd day, during the valedictory session, Fr. George, P.A, Director, Holy Family Hospital addressed the organisers and participants and congratulated them on taking up the challenge and appreciated the efforts of organisers for creating awareness about leadership among the young nurses. A souvenir was also prepared for the participants which included all the sessions and was circulated through electronic mail.

holy family hospital


The Holy Family of Celebration!

The very hectic commitments and problems of monstrous proportions, the crippling

effects of the sudden demonetization of old Currency Notes, failed to dampen our enthusiasm and efforts to prepare for the eagerly awaited Christmas Season 2016.

Our Choir led by Fr. Sherin Thomas and Fr. Arockia Dass, sang Christmas Carols at the campus from 21st and on the Hospital Floors on Christmas Eve, spreading joy and solace all around. A Cultural Programme was presented by the Doctors, Staff and Students at the Auditorium from 3 to 5 PM on 23rd. The participants displayed

Second and Third respectively for the quality of Decorations. A Special Prize was awarded to the Maintenance Department who constructed the iconic Nativity Crib in front of our Main Entrance. The Nursing School and College organized a Vandana Christmas Prayer Service at the Auditorium at 3 PM on 24th, which was followed by a High Tea. Christmas Liturgy was conducted at the same venue from 10 PM on Christmas Eve. Holy Mass was conducted at the Hospital Chapel at 8.30 AM on Christmas Day.

On the last day of 2016, a Thanksgiving Prayer was organized by Nursing Service at 3 PM. After

the prayer, Fr George PA, Director, Holy Family Hospital, awarded prizes to the winners of various competitions and felicitated each participant of the Cultural Events. The Sisters at Asha Bhawan offered Adoration and Thanksgiving Prayers at the Hospital Chapel from 8 to 9 PM. The New Year's Eve Celebrations commenced at 9.30 PM and carried on with full enthusiasm and fervour till the Burning of the Bogey Man at Midnight. The New Year commenced with Holy Mass at 6.30 AM followed by the Annual Lunch for the entire Staff and all students, on 02nd January 2017, which was blessed with the presence of His Grace, Rev Anil J.T. Couto Archbishop of Delhi.

Priestly Ordination of Fr. Robert Swamy, conferred by Most Rev. Anil J.T.Couto was held

at St. Anthony’s Shrine on Tuesday, the 27th December 2016, an historic event for the Paharganj Parish.

Fr. Robert was born on 07th November 1978 at Martalli and belongs to Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Diocese of Mysore. Having completed his school studies from St. Mary’s composite Junior College, studied his Graduation at St. Philomena’s College and completed his B. Ed. from the University of Mysore. In 2001, He gained his Masters in English Literature from Karnataka State Open University.

Nurtured by his Parish Priests who gave enough opportunity to serve in the church and later as youth, in 2006 Fr. Robert discerned his vocation and joined ‘Vinay Gurukul’, the minor Seminary of Archdiocese of Delhi. In the year 2010, he completed his Philosophy from St. Pius College, Bombay. Did his regency at Catholic Mission, Nuh and completed his 4 years of

Ordination of Fr. Robert Swamy conferred byMost Rev. Anil J.T.Couto, Archbishop of Delhi

Theology from Vidyajyoti College of Theology, Delhi. He served in Rosary Junior School at Narela, St. Mary’s Senior Secondary School and St. Mary’s Boys Hostel at Rohtak. Ordained as Deacon on 21st June 2014, he did his Diaconate Ministry at St. Mathew’s Church, Laxmi Nagar and Good Shepherd Church, Hauz Khas.

In July 2016 Fr. Robert was appointed as Administrator of St. Anthony’s Boys Secondary School and for diaconate ministry at St. Anthony’s Shrine, Paharganj. Fr. Robert has chosen “Do Whatever He tells you” (John 2:5) as his motto and commits himself completely to Lord Jesus Christ and become an effective instrument to serve Him as a Priest for the Archdiocese of Delhi.

Archdiocese of Delhi congratulates Fr. Robert and pray that God bless him abundantly that he may remain faithful to his vocation. May Fr. Robert continue to be sustained by His grace and may his life in God’s service always be filled with joy.

“Gold and silver i have none, but i tell you, in the name of Jesus get up and walk.”

The Seminarians of the Archdiocese of Delhi had a Christmas gathering on 27th December 2016 at St. Michael’s School, Gurgaon. The Seminarians studying in various seminaries: Jalandhar, Ranchi, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and Vinay Gurukul participated in the gathering. holy Eucharist offered by the his Grace Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto and was concelebrated by Fr. John Monteiro and Fr. Jais A.

Christmas Gathering for Delhi Seminarians

Archbishop in his homily emphasized the importance of vocation and exhorted those present to follow the integrity of priesthood in its original form like Jesus Christ. he further added, “Priests must be able to tell the people those in need the words of St. Peter, “Gold and silver, i have none, but i tell you in the name of Jesus get up and walk.” Money, power and possession have replaced Christ. Jesus’ model of authority is of service not of autonomy and dictatorship.”

The mass was followed by Carols and introduction of brothers. Various interactive games added fun to the gathering. Each received Christmas gift from the Archbishop as well. This was followed by a delicious meal after which the brothers dispersed to their respective places of ministry.

amazing talent in traditional and contemporary dances, singing and instrumental music, keeping the audience entertained. The Crib Competition was conducted on 22nd with Fr. Joseph and Fr. Jerry of the OCD and Fr. Ajit of the Delhi Archdiocese as the judges for the event. The Nursing Hostel won the First Prize for the Outdoor Category, followed by the Herbal Garden and the Linen and Laundry Departments. In the Indoor Category, The Cathlab were awarded the First Position, followed by the Dialysis and Emergency Treatment Departments. The Second Floor, Third Floor and the Cathlab were adjudged First,

◗ Br Richard Jose

◗ Stanislaus

◗ Baljeet K Arun

f e b r u a r y2 0 1 7

dioCesandigestaUGUsT 2020


chetanalaya

#WearMask CampaignThough the statistics of Delhi show that the number of COVID-19 infected is getting reduced day by day and the recovery rate is higher, we cannot be complacent and cannot afford to forgo the preventive measures. The best preventive measures put forward by the government and health agencies, wear mask when you go out, wash your hands frequently and maintain physical distance.

Chetanalaya had been creating awareness among the people on the preventive measures through videos and awareness generation meetings and so on. The team of Chetanalaya found a good number of people were not following the preventive measures in the community. Thus, Chetanalaya began a campaign titled ‘#WearMaskCampaign’ with the purpose of distributing 10000 reusable masks to the Elderly, PwDs, Children and the vulnerable. Many have come forward to sponsor a reusable mask @10/-. St. Vincent De Paul Society, Sacred Heart Cathedral Conference sponsored 2500 masks to be distributed. There are others donors who have helped towards this campaign. Thanks to all. The masks are being distributed to the target groups in our operational areas such as Jahangirpuri, Mukundpur, Bhaleswa, Seemapuri, Sundernagri, Kalyanpuri, Janta Colony, Shastri Park, Geeta Colony, Sangam Vihar, Bhattimines, Savda, Bawana, Narela, Holumbi Kalan, Nuh, Rewari and Rohtak. If anyone wishes to sponsor reusable masks (Rs. 10 per mask) or know some people who would need reusable masks please do contact us: [email protected] /director (8377820980)/program manager (9582800686).

Through this campaign we not only help the elderly, Persons with Disability, the children and the vulnerable but also help the women who are stitching the masks. They are also able to earn their living. Let us face this c h a l l e n g i n g situation together. Please do wear mask when you step out of your house or when you meet people who are sick.

33August 2020

NATIONAL

niscort

Online Skill Developmentamal Tomy Murickan

Ghaziabad, Delhi: The National Institute of Social Communications, Research and Training (NISCORT), organised several short term online courses during COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown to enhance the skills of students, communicators and media persons. The training programmes on News Writing and Reporting, Media Education, Pastoral Communication, and Digital Photography were conducted in the month of May and June 2020. More than 40 participants including students, priests, sisters and laity from Germany, India, Kuwait, and Nigeriaattended theonline courses.

“It was a great opportunity to attend the News Writing and Reporting Online Course. During the lockdown, it helped me to enhance my writing skills to become voice of the voiceless in my Social Work Ministry. This course gave me a strong conviction that regular practice of writing can help me grow and my fellow participants in our journalistic skills, news drafting and reporting style.” Said, Sr. Rini Lawerence, a participant of News Writing and Reporting Course from Mumbai

The saying, “Only the darkest nights can produce brightest stars” became reality to these participants during the time of COVID- 19 pandemic as it helped them to develop their various talents. “It was an awesome experience. The teachers gave us an in-depth knowledge on each and every topic that were taught during the session. They were very supportive and were a constant guide throughout the sessions. I thank NISCORT Media College for giving us this wonderful chance”, said Sr. Elizabeth Titilayo Adulojo, a participant of Media Education Course from Nigeria.

The sessions were interactive and skill based along with the practical exercises for self growth and development.“The classes were run through the Zoom App and lasted for an hour each day. The sessions were well combined with theory and practical and I look forward to attend more courses like this in future too”, said Fr. Anil Ivan Thomas, a participant of Pastoral Communication Course from Mangalore diocese.

The success of the entire training programmes goes to Dr. Fr. Jose Murickan, the Director NISCORT Media College and his team, who took initiative to organise these creative Online Courses.While Dr. A. MagimaiPragasam conducted the sessions on Media Education, Dr. Jose Murickan taught Pastoral Communication, Fr. Jenith Sekar took classes on Digital Photography, and Mr. SumitDhanraj was the resource person for News Writing and Reporting. NISCORT is a professional Media College of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and offers Graduate (BA), Post Graduate (MA) and Diploma Courses in Mass Communication and Journalism.

(A participant of News Writing & Reporting Course)


YOUTH CORNER

The Ones that Surround UsThat’s a big choice to make.

Who do you hang with?

Your pals, your buddies, your own select few. They certainly have a part to play in who we become.

School, college, family, church or work all of these places influence us a great deal. But more than the structure, or the time-table we follow, it’s the people. That’s what really touches our being the most.

The conversations, the inspirations, the dreams, the leaders, the rebels and how life is being lived there.

We may not be a part of a conversation but just listening to them can influence our thoughts. And our thoughts make our life.

Most of the conscious actions we have taken in life have been preceded by a thought that has many times already seen the task to fruition in our minds.

Mathew Hayden or Haydos as his fellow Australian cricket team mates used to call him, used to sit on the cricket pitch one day before the game for hours. He used to imagine the deliveries and the shots he would play.

Coming back to the people around us. No wonder ‘the family’ is given so much of importance by the church. They are the first cradle for the baby. Where he feels the cushion or the bumps, the nice aroma or the stink, the warmth or the chilly winds piercing through. And it’s one of the biggest blessings that we can have after knowing Our Lord.

It is tough to survive the storms without hanging on tight to our Maker and a supporting family. And Kudos to the people who have still walked towards their calling even when they did not have a stable family support to fall back on. But we must understand even if they didn’t know the Lord, the Lord knew them and was with them.

In today’s context, people in our circle are not just the people we meet and talk to or call up. Every person we hang out with on YouTube/Netflix/Amazon Prime/News channels or the books we read are part of our circle. We have given them the space and the time in our lives. So they all have the potential to deeply impact us. Change our behaviour and takes us toward love or selfishness.

I have been extremely lucky to have met with a movement called the Jesus Youth during my college days. They are not perfect people, but in this movement I have experienced this deep rooted attempt bring as many to the love of God. And their friendship has certainly been a source of joy and inspiration.

Once I heard a professor say, in college one third of what you learn comes from the teachers, one third comes from your personal study and the last one third comes from your classmates.

It is amazing how the same player in two different teams can perform so differently. An employee in two different organisations can work so differently. Even within the same company, under two different bosses the results can be staggering.

But under authority it is obvious that a negative culture can have a deeper impact.

Now can we list down the 5 people we hangout with the most. And evaluate how those relationships are influencing our lives. Do we recognise any company that we are missing in that mix.

Are we surrounding ourselves with the 3 persons who love us more than anyone else? Are we experiencing their overflowing love? Are we listening to their profound directions?

nikhil George

Church of our lady of Graces,

Vikaspuri

35August 2020

Darker Nights And Falling Starsreshma sebastian

STORY

73 years ago, the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru announced India’s independence at the stroke of midnight when the world was deep asleep. This independence split British India into two countries- India and Pakistan. As a result, massive violence occurred on both sides of the border. Thousands lost their lives, many were forced to leave their homes and their possessions. Many were displaced and became refugees. Hunger and disease spread all over the regions.

Again at the dark hour of November 8, 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared demonetisation (note ban). Many people lost their small earnings and businesses, many lost lives standing on the queue to take their money from the bank, and many other illiterate poor people lost their cash slashed away in their small trunks. India witnessed greater unemployment and poverty.

At the darker hour of March 24, 2020 Prime Minister Narendra Modi ordered nationwide lockdown due to Covid 19 pandemic. Many people lost their jobs and small earnings. Many poor people longed to get back to their hometown. Since there was no transportation, poor people started their journey covering long distances on foot. Many could not reach their destination as they met with various accidents and travails.

THE FALLING STARS

One day, I was waiting at the bus stop at Dwarka More to catch the bus to reach home. Then an e-rickshaw wala approached me to hire his rickshaw. I told him, I don’t require your service as I am taking the bus. Then he pleaded with me to take his e-rickshaw. I felt pity upon him and started conversing with him. Then he opened up and shared his experience. He said, “My name is Ram Prasad. I am a tailor by profession. I was working in a big cloth factory as a tailor. Slowly I learned the trick of the trade and started my own business, stitching readymade clothes and selling to different small shop owners. As the business grew I hired 2-3 helping hands. The business was running well and I was living a comfortable life with my wife Renu and two young children, Ankit and Basanti.

Then came the Note Bandhi as a thunder storm in my life. All my business was on cash based transaction. I didn’t know anything about bank account, cheque transactions and other modes of payments. I could not collect money from my creditors nor could I buy materials to continue with my business as I had no cash in my hand. I closed down my business and sent away my employees and even sold my two tailoring machines to feed my hungry children. To survive in the city I took to running e-rickshaw by hiring an e-rickshaw to earn a living. But hardly I am earning ever since Delhi government declared free bus ride for women. By the time, the bus came and I was in a hurry so I got into the bus and came away.

After few months, as I was walking back from a grocery store, a cycle rickshaw man pleaded with me to hire his rickshaw. I did not bother him first as my house was at walking distance and also due to the fear of corona infection. When I refused his service, he noticed the loaf of bread which I was carrying. He requested me

whether I can spare that loaf of bread. Then I had a closer look at him. Suddenly I realised that it was the same man Ram Prasad whom I met few months ago at Dwarka More. This time he was in a torn and shabby cloth with a malnourished body. My heart was throbbing to know what had happened to him. I asked him “your name is Ram Prasad”

Ram Prasad – “Yes mam. My name is Ram Prasad. How do you know me?

Then I told him, “I met you few months back at Dwarka More and you were running an e-rickshaw and you told me your whole story.

Ram Prasad – “As I was struggling to make both ends meet by running e-rickshaw, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced nationwide lockdown, due to which that small source of income also disappeared. It completely devastated my life and I realised my stars are falling one by one. Since I had absolutely no means of income to feed my family, I decided to go back to my village with my family. Cursing my destiny, since there was no means


of transportation during lock down I was forced to walk back home with my family carrying my belongings. After walking for the whole day on the tarred road in the hot summer, all of us got heavy blisters on our feet and our children couldn’t walk anymore. Their chappals were torn off. In order to get good breeze and open space we chose to sleep on railway track thinking that during lockdown no trains will come and we were soon in deep sleep due to sheer exhaustion.

But by midnight there was a roar of a train approaching us on the same track that we were sleeping. All of us were in deep sleep. I shouted at the top of my voice “Renu, get up! Come out of the track! The train is approaching! Where are Ankit and Basanti! Renu in her deep sleep heard my cry and immediately jumped out of the track. Then she remembered that Ankit and Basanti were still sleeping on the track. She ran back to get them out of the track. By the time there was a big bang and Renu was hit and run over by the train. Everything happened in a moment. My wife is no more. I cried aloud “Renu, why did you leave us?” The poor mother sacrificed her own life to save her children. We often forget the immense love and sacrifice our mothers make for the greater comfort of their children. The train passed by and the whistle of the train faded away slowly. I was weeping and shouting and thought, I lost my children too. But to my utter surprise nothing happened to them. They were fast asleep due to their fatigue, as if nothing had happened. The children escaped because they were too small and slept in between two tracks which caused them no harm. With utter despair and deeper grief, I continued my journey with my children home.

I stayed in my village with my relatives for few days and then I realized that they too were struggling to make both ends meet and couldn’t feed my family for longer. I searched for job but could not get one. So when lockdown was relaxed I decided to come back to the city with my children. For me and my children, it was a question of survival or death. I kept my children in a Shanti (roadside shelter made of plastic sheets and rags) along with my acquaintances. I looked for an e-rickshaw but I had to deposit 2000/- to the rickshaw owner to get it for hiring. So I took an old cycle rickshaw from my friend and started peddling to get some money to feed my hungry children. Today the whole day I waited for customers but because of the restrictions and the fear of Corona virus during lockdown, nobody wants to hire my cycle rickshaw. That is why I pleaded you to hire my cycle rickshaw. Since you refused to take the rickshaw, seeing the loaf of bread in your hand I asked for it because the picture of my starving children came clearly in my mind. Didi, these are my darker nights and all my stars have fallen down one by one”.

Hearing his heart- rendering experience of his traumatised life I gave the loaf of bread and an extra 50/- I could see a fading smile on his face and he thanked and peddled away.

When I came home I could not sleep that night thinking about Ram Prasad’s bitter experiences and tragedies in his life. The world is just too cruel for him and his family. I realized that I have no reason to complain when I lack little comfort in my life.

Today 80% of the national wealth is controlled by 20% of the Indian population and the leftover 20% is at the disposal of 80% of the population to meet their basic needs. This is the state of affairs of our country even after 73 years of independence where fraternity, equality, justice, freedom of expression and freedom from exploitation are enshrined in the Indian constitution.

As per the latest report there are 46.8 million, millionaires in the world, out of which 7300 are in India and they are growing by 20% every year in India. Our country is ranked third in the world with regard to number of millionaires in the world. On the other hand, over 20 crore Indians go to sleep hungry every night, 25 lakh die every year and 7000 Indians die of hunger every day. All these people had great dreams but their dreams were shattered immaturely and they realized their stars were falling one by one during their darker nights.

We are living in a world of injustice, inequality and impoverishment and COVID -19 has taught us to reflect on these distressing and unpleasant realities of life.

Disclaimer

“The views and opinions in this piece are soleley those of the author.”

37August 2020

PAStoRAL CLERgy

anniVersaries 15th august 2020 to 15th september 2020

AUGUST 2020calendar of feasts

1 Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori

2 Saint Peter Julian Eymard

3 Saint Lydia Purpuraria

4 Saint John Vianney

5 Dedication of Saint Mary Major Basilica

6 Venerable Anthony Margil

7 Saint Cajetan

8 Saint Dominic, priest

9 Edith Stein

10 Saint Lawrence, deacon and martyr

11 Saint Clare

12 Saint Michael My

13 Saints Pontian and Hippolytus

14 Saint Maximilian Mary Kolbe

15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

16 Saint Stephen of Hungary

BIRTHDAY

AUGUST

15 Praveen Monteiro (1983)

17 Sundera Raju (1975)

18 Christopher G (1976)

31 Paul Roy (1973)

SePTeMBeR

1 Suresh Xavier (1981)

10 Lawrence P. R. (1974)

12 Wilfred D’ Souza (1973)

15 Aires Furtado (1965)

15 Anthony Francis (1966)

15 Albert Francis (1966)

15 Jaya Pradeep (1978)

ORDINATIONS

SePTeMBeR

10 Anthaiah Pudota (2012)

DeATH ANNIveRSARY

AUGUST

Fr. Mathew Maveli 15-08-1967Fr. Monthu D’Souza 27-08-2008

SePTeMBeR

Fr. Pascal F. X. Rodrigues 07-09-1979Fr. Paul Cardoza 07-09-2005Fr. Claude D’Souza 14-09-2013

17 Saint Joan of the Cross

18 Saint Helena

19 Saint John Eudes

20 Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

21 Saint Pius X

22 Queenship of Mary

23 Saint Rose of Lima

24 Saint Bartholomew the Apostle

25 Saint Louis of France

26 Saint Teresa of Jesus Jornet Ibars

27 Saint Monica

28 Saint Augustine of Hippo

29 The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, martyr

30 Saint Jeanne Jugan



17 Saint Joan of the Cross

18 Saint Helena

19 Saint John Eudes

20 Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

21 Saint Pius X

22 Queenship of Mary


24 Saint Bartholomew the Apostle

25 Saint Louis of France

26 Saint Teresa of Jesus Jornet Ibars

27 Saint Monica

28 Saint Augustine of Hippo

29 The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, martyr

30 Saint Jeanne Jugan


39August 2020


41August 2020

Printed and published by Fr. Januario Rebello on behalf of Delhi Catholic Archdiocese and Printed at Bosco Society for Printing & RNI Cft. No. DELENG/2007/19942Graphic Training, New Delhi 110025 and Published by Delhi Catholic Archdiocese, 1 Ashok Place, New Delhi 110001. Editor: Fr. Stanley DL (ND)-11/6125/2019-20-21Kozhichira E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.archdiocesedelhi.org, Facebook: Voiceofdelhi Archdiocese Delhi DOP 9th & 10th

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