Canonization of Mother Teresa

St. Mother Teresa 

Prayer for us 

 

New Letter September-October 2016

Archbishop’s Programme

September

1-3                          Visit to the Parishes          

4                              Gaya

7-8                          Barh

8              PM         Mass at Raja Bazar

14                           Feast Day Mass at Fairfield

18                           Mass at Patna City

19-28                     1976 Ordination batch mates’ Retreat at Goa

28-30                     Jaipur

October

4                              Patna

5                              Jubilee Mass at Fairfield

8                              Jubilee Mass at Sherpur

9-10                        Bettiah

16                           Bankipur Parish Day

23                           Chakaram Parish

24-31                     Ordination of Dn. Jayson SJ at       Mangalore

The months of July and August have been time of busy schedule with meetings, reporting and celebrations for the Archbishop. He made a friendly visit to all the parishes in the beginning of July, spent time with the priests, sisters, expressing his solidarity and gratitude to everyone who has been contributing to the mission of the Archdiocese. On 10^th July, he blessed the newly built boys’ hostel at Bariarpur. He led a delegation of Catholic Council of Bihar for the Governing Body Meeting of Catholic Council of India, at Hyderabad form 25^th to 31^st July. On 4^th August, he met Rev. Fr. Mariolino, the Provincial of Josephites of Murialdo. On 7^th August, he left for Ranchi to attend the meeting of the Executive Committee of Medical College. On 10^th morning, he received the members of Caritas Switzerland. He made a flying visit to Mangalore to attend a jubilee celebration. He was in Mokama from 17 to 18^th to speak to the Regional Secretaries of the Regional Commissions, and the Bishops. On 18^th the Catholic Council of Bihar met the Archbishop, along with the other Bishops of the Region. On 21^st, he left for Bettiah to celebrate thanksgiving Mass along with the Domincians for the existence of the Order of Preachers for last 800 years. On 22^nd evening, the Provincial of FIHM met the Archbishop. On 25^th he visited the Sacred Heart Brothers’ Community at Biharsharif, along with the Superior General, Very Rev. Bro. Victor Dass, SHJ. He also visited the flood affected areas in Bhakiyarpur, and Fatwa, and expressed his solidarity. He assured his support and encouraged the sisters, and priests.  On 27^th he visited Maner, and Danapur. He offered the Holy Eucharist and celebrated the Mahila Diwas at St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral, Bankipure, encouraging the mothers to follow the footsteps of St. Monica. On 30^th he was the chief guest for the Founder’s Day at Patna Women’s College.

Blessing of the Boys Hostel at Bariarpur Parish: The Archbishop William D’ Souza, S.J., blessed and inaugurated the newly constructed hostel for the boys at Barriarpur on 10^th July, 2016.  Congratulations to Fr. Rakesh Roshan for his initiative and hard work to put up a beautiful hostel. Heartfelt thanks to all the benefactors for their generous contribution.

St. Xavier’s Colleges observed the Feast Day of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Patna: On Saturday, St. Xavier’s College and St. Xavier’s College of Management and Technology jointly celebrated the Feast Day of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the mystic, preacher and founder of the Society of Jesus. The ceremony began with the lighting of the sacred lamp and garlanding of the portrait of the revered saint by the chief guest Fr. Prem Prakash, the Vicar General, Archdiocese of Patna. Students of the college presented the life sketch of St. Ignatius of Loyola through a dance-drama which was much appreciated. While addressing the students, the chief guest said, “I wish to see a new heaven and new earth where everyone respects each other and where there is justice and peace in the society. You have to change for yourself and build a better society.” He added that if you choose life you are alive; if you choose death you are dead. He also spoke about the contribution of the Jesuits in Bihar in bringing dignity to human lives. On the occasion Father Dr. Sushil Bilung SJ, Father Dr. Rajkumar SJ and Dr. Anurag Ambastha were felicitated for being awarded Ph.D degrees recently. Guest of Honour Nutan Chaudhary, Team Leader of Cambridge English Language Assessment handed certificates to students for their performance in extracurricular activities.

De-addiction Ministry: A De-addiction workshop was organized at Navjyoti Niketan, Patna from the 14th July to 17th July 2016 noon. There were 39 participants from Barh, Bakhtiarpur, Buxar, Patna, Bettiah, Ratanpurwa, Maner and Hajipur. Topics that were taken up were Addiction, Withdrawal Symptoms, Relapse, and Denial, effects of Alcohol on the Body, Counseling, Self Help Groups- Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Al-Anon and Al-Ateen. The participants went through the sessions with eagerness and interest and were highly motivated to help addicts in their area.

Camp for the Youth: This year the Bihar state AICUF team held a summer camp in Chakaram youth centre, Patna from 24^th June -27^th June 2016 on the theme “LET US BE A BETTER ME FOR A BETTER TOMORROW”. The camp was held under the guidance of State Advisor Fr. Asit Lakra, This Camp was a three days workshop for college students on personality development, life coping skills and leadership. Students from Patna, Barh, Jamalpur, Gaya, Basauni, Roh and Nawada actively took part in this camp. There were around 70 participants including the state core team who attended the camp. Fr.Prem Prakash, the Vicar General of Patna Archdiocese was the main the celebrant for inaugural Mass. Resource persons for the camp were Fr. Sabu Devis, Mr. Surendra, Fr. James Andrew SJ, Fr. Gregory Gomes, SJ, Mr. Alfred, Mr. Tarun Simon and Mr. Chandan. Special invitees were Fr. T. Nishant SJ, the principal of St. Xavier’s college of Mgmt & Tech., Patna, Fr .Joseph Thadavanal SJ, Rector of St. Xavier’s college, Dr. Sr. Marie Jessie AC, Principal of Patna women’s college and Dr. Sr. Celine AC. On the last day Archbishop William D’souza SJ, was the Guest of honor for the Cultural Programme.

Flood in Bihar: Due to the release of water from Indrapuri Barrage and other rivers merging into Ganga River, made Ganga’s water to flow above the danger level.  Besides, a huge volume of water has been released from Bansagar dam and few rains it is expected that water level, which has reduced, may once again rise. As per the news, at least 37 persons have been killed while 31.33 lakh people affected in the Bihar floods with many areas, specially the riverine belt of 12 districts badly reeling under water in the state. As per the Disaster Management Department statement, the floods caused by a spate in rivers Ganga, Sone, Punpun, Burhi Gandak, Ghaghara and Kosi have affected 31.33 lakh people in 1,934 villages in 12 districts of the state.

The church campus of Bakhtiarpur, Bariarpur, Fatuah were under flood water and the ground floor at SCN convent at Bakhtiarpur was flooded. The Sisters had to shift all their belongings and the dispensary to the first floor. Archbishop William D’souza, S.J., visited these places and has directed Fr. Amal Raj, the Director of Sewa Kendra, Patna to help them with necessary requirements. The Samachar made an urgent appeal to all the members of the hierarchy and the leadership to encourage the community of faithful, institutions and people of goodwill to generously contribute to this humanitarian call and express their solidarity and support in time of need. Keeping in mind the urgency of the need, you may send your contribution to ‘Sewa Kendra’, A/C no. 18950100001625 (UCO bank, Digha Ghat, Patna).   

  

 Your Attention Please:

Patna Deanery: In preparation for the Vianny day celebrations, there was a day of recollection in Patna deanery conduced at Archbishops house on July 23, 2016. All the pastors and diocesan clergy of Patna met together at Archbishop’s house for a short meeting to decide on how to celebrate the sainthood of Mother Theresa and how to conclude the Year of Mercy in the Archdiocese. It was decided that we could have a Thanks giving Mass in every parish of Patna Deanery on September 11, 2016. In preparation for the same we could have a talk, adoration and confessions on the previous day. All the schools could hold the assembly at least for a week on the life of Mother Theresa. It may be good to screen a film on the Mother to the school children as well as to the parishioners. There could be a family gathering with a seminar on the Year of Mercy in each deanery. This year the theme for the Crus Veer rally, youth convention and Mahila Sangh convention could also be the Year of Mercy. We will have a grant conclusion on 20^th Nov, 2016 by a Eucharist procession from KHFH to Kurji Parish.

Gaya Deanery: For Gaya Deanery a day of Recollection was held on 18^th august, 2016 in which 42 priests and religious participated. Soon after the recollection they had a meeting to discuss how meaning fully we could celebrate the Sainthood of Mother Teresa.  Gaya deanery has decided to celebrate the Sainthood of Mother Teresa at Deanery level on 4^th September, 2016 at Gaya Parish. Archbishop William D’ Souza, S.J., will be the main celebrant to preside over the Mass on the occasion.   

  

Magadh Deanery:  A day of recollection was held on 25^th August, in which Rev. Fr. Jose Edavazhy gave the talk on the prophetic life of Elijah.  11 Priests participated. It was decided that on 26^th Nov, the Sainthood of Mother Teresa will be celebrated at Deanery level at St. Joseph’s Church, Nawada. Every parish of Magadh deanery will prepare and present items like tableau or skit or song or dance or dance drama on the theme of Year of Divine Mercy and life of St. Teresa of Kolkata.

New Team of Vocation Commission and Vocation Promoters: On 17^th July, 2016 Vocation Commission meeting was held at St. Mary’s Minor Seminary, Chakaram. During the meeting new members for the vocation Commission and vocation promoters have been appointed. New members for Vocation Commission are Archbishop William D’souza,S.J., Fr. Prem Prakash (V.G.), Fr. Jose Chirakal (Rector of St. Mary’s Minor Seminary, Chakaram), Fr. Peter Ladis and Fr. Dinesh Kumar. New Vocation promoters are Fr. Prem Prakash (V.G.), Fr. Jose Chirackal Fr. Peter Ladis, Fr. Jerome Dungdung, Fr. Asit Lakra, Fr. Bhagyaraj and Fr. Dinesh Kumar.

Girl Child Day: On the occasion of commemorating the birthday of Mother Mary, the CBCI Council for Women invites to celebrate the Girl Child Day on 8^th September, 2016. It is celebrated to raise awareness among people about all the inequalities faced by the girl child in the society.  On this girl child day, let us pray and make plans to promote the acceptance of girl children as a gift of God and ensure that every girl child is respected and valued in the family and society.

Family Commission: on 4^th and 5^th November, 2016 the Family Commission of Patna Archdiocese is arranging a 2 days programme to celebrate the “Year of Mercy” with the selected families of each Parish at Jyoti Bhawan, Mokama. Parish Priests of each Parish are requested to send only five families from their respective parishes. Presence of the Parish Priest along with the families of the parish will be more appreciated. Please contact Fr. Jose Edavazy, the family Commission In-charge of the Archdiocese for the details.    

Crus vir Rally: “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belong the kingdom of God” (Matt: 19:14). This year the rally will begin on 29^th October (P.M) to 1^st November 2016, which will be held in Mokama. The programme will end by lunch on the last day. The theme for the rally is “God’s merciful love”. Please prepare the children for the programme and send as many as possible for the same.

Junior Priests Recollection (under 10): Monthly recollection for the junior clergy is scheduled to be held on 30^th Sept. and 1^st October, 2016 at Mokama Parish. Recollection will begin at 6pm on 30^th Sep.

Junior Clergy Annual Retreat: Annual retreat for the junior Clergy of Patna Archdiocese is scheduled to be held in Velankanni, Tamilnadu from 14^th- 18^th November, 2016. Please book your tickets according to your convenience and inform Fr. Vicar General. Fr. Peter Ladis will accompany them.

Monthly Recollection and Annual Retreat for the Regents: Monthly recollection is scheduled to be held on 7-8 October, 2016 at Muzafferpur and Annual Retreat from 6^th- 12^th November, 2016 at Allahabad.

Dakharas (Mass Wine): There was some uncertainty regarding the Mass Wine since the ban on liquor in Bihar. The term Mass Wine is misleading and so the license to make Mass Wine has been cancelled by the authorities. All the same, we are told by the authorities that we could continue to use the term “Dakhras” for Holy Mass. As of now we do not have to get panic about the use of Dakhras in our parishes and Mass Centers.

Our Contribution for the needs of Church in the Holy Land, one among the 7 Universal Collections was appreciated by the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, the  Samachar quotes the letter of Leonardo Cardinal Sandri, the Prefect for the above mentioned Congregation, “Most heartily do I thank you, together with your priests, men, and women religious, ecclesial institutions and all the faithful, for having contributed so generously to the sustenance of the Christian community living in the places of our Redemption. This precious gesture will help to maintain a living Christian presence amid difficult circumstances. By strengthening the various pastoral, social, educative, health and welfare initiatives, the love of God will be able to shine in the Holy Places, especially upon most in need”. In the year of 2015, the Archdiocese of Patna has contributed `60,465.00.

Contribution Received for Bp. Hartmann’s Scholarship Fund:

Kurji Holy Family Hospital                               10,000.00

Nazareth Convent, Patna                                   10,000.00

CFMSS, Kankarbagh                                           1,000.00

Corrected: CBSE Class X Result of Crene Memorial School, Gaya: Appeared -240, 10-CGPA-52, First Div.-189.

Congratulations:

Sr. Sara S.A., has been appointed as Principal of Loyola High School, Harnaut.

Fr. Michael Ignatius has been appointed to head the commission for Bible and Catechetic. He will coordinate the Bible Festival and Logos Quiz in the Archdiocese.

Fr. Alex, V., has been appointed to head the Sacred Liturgy Commission.

R.I.P.

Please prayer for the departed soul of Mr. Iype Olikathotty, father of Fr. Thomas Olikathotty and Fr. Jacob Olikathotty, S.J., who expired on 10^th August2016, due to an old age. He was 90 years old. 

Happy Birthday

September:

Fr. Robert Kumar                10.09.1968

Fr. Jacob Muthuplackal     11.09.1944

Fr. James George                 11.09.1960

Fr. Xavier Varghese             17.09.1930

Fr. James Shekhar               23.09.1967

October:

Fr. Joseph Mattathilani      02.10.1938

Fr. Gyan Prakash                 05.10.1973

Fr. Joseph Bara                    08.10.1952

Fr. Christu Raj                  10.10.1955

Fr. Oscar Beck                      10.10.1962

Fr. P. Bhaskar                       12.10.1968

Fr. Asit Lakra                       18.10.1981

Fr. Satya Prakash                   21.10.1976

Fr. Mariamlal                       29.10.1980

Beautiful Story for Reflection: One day a person met the great Chanakya and said, “Do you know what I just heard about your friend? “Hold on a minute,” Chanakya replied. “Before telling me anything I’d like you to pass a little test. “It’s called the, “Triple Filter Test.”  “Triple Filter?” “That’s right,” Chanakya continued. “Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you’re going to say. That’s why I call it the triple filter test. The first filter is TRUTH. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true? “No,” the man said, “actually I just heard about it and….” “All right,” said Chanakya. “So you don’t know if it’s true or not. Now let’s try the second filter, the filter of GOODNESS. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good? “No,” on the contrary…” “So,” Chanakya continued, “You want to tell me something bad about him, but you’re not certain it’s true. You may still pass the test through, because there’s one filter left, the filter of USEFULNESS. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me? “No, not really.” “Well,” concluded Chanakya, “if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all? 

Appeal for generous Contribution for Flood Victims

 "If one member suffers, all suffer together" (1 Cor 12,26).

Dear Fathers/Brothers/Sisters,

SUBJECT: Appeal for solidarity and contribution to help the flood affected population in Patna, Maner, Bakhtiarpur and Bariarpur Parishes under Patna Archdioceses.

We, the Catholic Church in Bihar express our deep concern and solidarity with the flood affected people of Bihar and offer our prayers and condolences to all those who lost their lives, livestock and property.

The flood happened due to release of water from Indrapuri Barrage and other rivers merging into Ganga River. Besides, a huge volume of water has been released from Bansagar dam and it is expected that water level, which has reduced, may once again rise.

As per the news, at least 120 persons have been killed while 23.71 lakh people affected in the Bihar floods with many areas, specially the riverine belt of 12 districts badly reeling under water in the state. As per the Disaster Management Department statement, the floods caused by a spate in rivers Ganga, Sone, Punpun, Burhi Gandak, Ghaghara and Kosi have affected 23.71 lakh people in 1115 villages under 362 Panchayats in 12 districts of the state.

As the reports coming in, Patna and Munger are the worst affected districts. Patna District Magistrate Sanjay Kumar Agarwal has stated that a total of 1.55 lakh people have been evacuated so far in Patna district, and 179 relief camps were being run in the flood-hit areas, giving shelter to 1,07,000 people even as 160 medical teams were providing services. However, as the reports published in today’s newspaper, the flood situation is grim and lakhs of population are still not getting any help from Govt.

Based on initial need assessment by our church organizations besides other humanitarian agencies, there is huge need emerging and there is a huge gap in Food materials, blankets, sanitary kits, medicines to the affected population. We need to respond to the need of the suffering people by extending our support and reach out to the marooned brother and sisters in the flooded area of in Maner, Patna, Bakhtiarpur and Bariarpur Parishes.

On behalf of the Catholic Church in Bihar, I make an urgent appeal to all the members of the hierarchy and the leadership to encourage the community of faithful, institutions and people of goodwill to generously contribute to this humanitarian call and express our solidarity and support in time of need.

  Keeping in mind the urgency of the need, you may send your contribution to ‘Sewa Kendra’, A/C no. 18950100001625 (UCO bank, Digha Ghat, Patna).

May I invoke the blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ on all of us.

Yours lovingly in the Service of the Lord,

†William D’ Souza S.J                                                                         Fr. Amal Raj S.

Archbishop of Patna                                                                            Director

News Letter                 January-February-2016                                     Transfer and appointment                 From                                       To Fr. Sabu Davis                         Youth Director             For Renewal and sabbatical Fr. Asit Lakra                           Asst. Youth Director                Youth Director Archbishop’s Programme: January 2016 9-10     Shapur Parish 11        Jehanabad 12-13   Hindi Principal& Secretary Meeting     PM   KHFH 17        Holy Door at Mokama 23        Goveas Jubilee, Jahanabad 24        Muzaffarpur 30        C.J’s First Vows 31        Gaya February 3-4       Ranchi 5          FVTRS 6          Fatwa 7          Mokama Feast 10        Ash Wednesday 12        Education Council 13-14   Barbigha 17-18   Hindi Regional Bishops’ Meeting 19        Barh 20        Nawada 21        Hilsa Meeting with the Major Superiors of Patna Archdiocese: Archbishop William D’Souza SJ had a meeting with Major Superiors/ their representatives of the Religious Congregations serving the Archdiocese at 6:00 pm on 23 November 2015 at Sewa Kendra, Patna. On invitation Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara of Nagpur was also present for the meeting. Archbishop Abraham shared the developments with regard to the proposed medical college in Ranchi. Later Archbishop William shared the happening, concerns of the Archdiocese and requested their cooperation and support for the programs being planned for the coming year. He talked about the Jubilee Year of Mercy, Mokama Shrine Development, and 150th Death Anniversary of Bishop Hartmann OFM. CCI Convention at Patna:  On 24th November, 48 representatives, two lay people from every deanery of all six dioceses in Bihar along with the Regional Commission Secretaries, the Bishops of Bihar came together under the banner of Catholic Council of India. The convention began at 8:30 a.m. at Navjyoti Niketan with reading of a passage from the Bible, a short prayer and a Bhajan. Archbishop William D’Souza SJ, Bishop Sebastian (Buxar) Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara (Nagpur) Fr. Aloysius Ephrem Raju, the Secretary of CCI and the Secretaries of the different commissions of BRBC were present for the convention. Fr. Raju and Mr. Lawrence enlightened the house on the role and functions of the CCI. After the reporting session Bishop Sebastian asked the participants that we need to have a unit of CCI in our region. Names were suggested accordingly Bihar Regional Catholic Council (BRCC) was constituted with the following members:             President                                              :Most Rev. William D’Souza SJ Chairman                                             :Most Rev. Sebastian Kallupura (Buxar) Secretary                                              :Mr. Paschal Peter Osta (Patna)  Joint Secretary                                     :Fr. James Shekhar (Patna) Vice Presidents                                      :Ms. Usha Marandi (Bhagalpur)                                                                         :Mr. Sammi Abraham (Bettiah) Treasurer                                             :Dr. Victor Alphonse (Patna) Bishop Sebastian suggested that we need to make our own statutes according to the nature and need of our region. Golden Jubilee of Archbishop William: The Patna Archdiocese celebrated the Golden Jubilee of Archbishop William D’souza, S.J., with joy and gladness.  The archdiocesan priests decided to celebrate the Jubilee on 26th November at 6.00 PM at St. Joseph’s Pro-cathedral.  Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash, the Vicar General a committee did the preparation for the celebration. The religious working in the Archdiocese were invited. The Bishops of Bihar Region Most Rev. Kurien, Most  Rev. Sebastian, Most Rev. Cajetan, Most Rev. Angelus and Very Rev. Fr. Lawrence Paschal added the extra flavor to the celebration.  The regional secretaries of different commission in Bihar Region were present for the Jubilee. The guests and the Jubiliarion were welcomed by the Band from St. Joseph’s Girls’ School, Barh. The procession for the Jubilee Mass was led by the nurses of Tripolia Hospital. Fr. Kuldeep led the choir. Fr. Jerome was in-charge of the Liturgy. Very Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash welcomed and introduced the liturgy. Very Rev. Fr. Jose Vadaserry the Provincial of Patna Province read the letter of the General. Fr. James George preached the homily and appreciated the Archbishop for his heart for the people. Fr. Devasia Mattathilani read the Papal Blessing. The band led everyone to St. Joseph's Hindi Medium for the dinner. Once again Congratulation dear Archbishop! Thank you for leading us from front as shepherd. Jubilee Year of Mercy:  During the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, on the Feast of Immaculate Conception, the Archbishop hoisted the flag and inaugurated the Jubilee year of Mercy. The Archbishop emphasized the importance of the Jubilee Year and the reasons for it. He said that Pope Francis formally announced on 11 April, 2015, the Vigil of the Sunday of Divine Mercy, “Holy Year of Mercy” to begin on 8th  December 2015. This Holy Year is to commemorate both the feast of the Immaculate Conception and the 50th Anniversary of the closing of the Second Vatican Council, which called the Church to proclaim the Gospel to the world in new ways, bringing God’s mercy to everyone. The Holy Year will conclude on November 20, 2016, on the Feast of Christ the King.  The Archbishop mentioned three important aspects for the celebration of the Jubilee Year of Mercy namely Mercy, Compassion and Love. He announced that St. Joseph's Pro-cathedral will have an adoration chapel and he encouraged the faithful to take time and to be with the Lord. The Samachar invites every visitor to Archbishop’s House to make a short visit to the Blessed Sacrament exposed for the public from sunrise to sunset, at the Adoration Chapel. Holy Door Opened: Archbishop William D’souza S.J, opened the Holy Door at St. Joseph’s Pro-cathedral on 13th December 2015, along with the universal church, as Holy Father Pope Francis opened the Holy Door at the Cathedral of Rome, St. John’s Lateran. On Sunday, the fog and biting cold could not diminish the cheers and gladness of the faithful as they gathered at St. Joseph’s ground for the spiritual celebration. The Archbishop in his introduction explained the procedure and the significance of the liturgy. Quoting from Misericordiae Vultus Bull of Indiction of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, by the Holy Father, he said that the Holy Door signified our entry into the church with the renewal and trust. Fr. Peter Ladis proclaimed the Gospel, and Bro. Dharam Kishore read the extract from Hindi Version of the Misericordiae Vultus. The Procession was led by the Archbishop, and the priests followed by the faithful. The choir sang meaningful hymns to lead the procession. On the arrival at the entrance of the Pro-cathedral, the Archbishop invoked the grace of God and to shower His Mercy to all who enter the Door. He carried the Bible, as he first entered the Church followed by others. In his homily, he exhorted the faithful to read the Bull of Indiction and practice the teaching of the Holy Father through the works of mercy. He explained the meaning of the Holy Door, in which the History of Salvation and Sacraments are depicted.  http://archdiocesepatna.blogspot.in/p/phot.html Congratulations to Deacon Dharam Kishor who received the order of Deaconate on 14th December, 2015, by Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J. at the Pro-Cathedral, Bankipur, Patna. He is appointed at Bariarpur Parish to do his deaconate ministry under the guidance of Fr. Rakesh.   Creane Memorial School, Gaya: Sixty Seventh death anniversary of Fr. James Creane, S.J., was celebrated on 28th November, 2015. The day began with prayer at Fr. Creane’s tomb. Evening programme was dedicated to parents and highlight of the evening was the “Continental Show” which had selected dances from seven continents. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J. graced the occasion as chief guest and Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, S.P. of Gaya as the guest of honour.     St. John’s Academy, Kankarbagh: St. John Utsav was celebrated on 5th December,2015 in St. John’s Academy. Kankarbagh. The Chief Guest was Most Rev. William D’Souza,S.J., the Archbishop of Patna. Utsav began at 2.30 pm. Archbishop gave away the best student award for the academic year2005-16. He delivered an inspiring speech in which he emphasized the importance of the role of the parents in the growth of the students. St. John’s family was happy to honour Archbishop with a memento on the occasion of his golden Jubilee. St. Joseph’s Convent School, Barh:  Parents day was celebrated with happiness and excitement in the campus of St. Joseph’s Convent School, barh on 12th December, 2015. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J., was the chief guest of the celebration. The day was marked by incredible display of the talents by the students. The charisma of the function was a skit, “Empowerment of Women” which challenged every audience present over there to contemplate about the obligation to educate the girl children. In his address to the parents the Archbishop appealed that they must spend more time with their children so that they may get proper directions from them. During the function the best students were awarded by the chief guest for their academic excellence. St. Joseph’s School, Jamalpur: On 11 December, 2015, St. Joseph’s school, Jamalpur celebrated Parent’s Day in the school campus. Fr. Joseph Raj, the Director of Education Council was the chief guest. Children presented varieties of cultural programmme on this auspicious day. Fr. Joseph Raj spoke about the responsibilities of parents concerning children. Congratulations to Fr. Nandu Kumar, the secretary of the school, Sr. Prabha, SND, the headmistress and all the teaching staff.  St. Mary’s School, Masaurhi: On 28th November, 2015, school sports day was celebrated in the campus of St. Mary’s School, Masaurhi. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J., was the chief guest for the function. Archbishop appreciated the girls for taking lead in all the activities. On the same day Mr. Chandrashekar Singh, SDM inaugurated the newly constructed 17 class Rooms while the Archbishop William D’Souza, Frs. Joseph Raj and Philip soosai blessed the new class rooms. Archbishop congratulated Fr. Sebastian, the principal and Fr. Augustine Mundoli, the secretary of the school for a massive construction of 17 class rooms within a short period only with  local resources. St. Xavier’s School, Sikandra has added one more leaf of joy to the calendar of 2015 with a great success of school annual day on 2nd December, 2015. The Chief Guest was Most Rev. William D’ Souza, Archbishop of Patna. The guest of honour was Mr. Srija (District Educational Officer) and the program was witnessed by many secular and religious priests and religious sisters and friends. The students surprised the audience with their wonderful performance. It was the hard work put together by the students, the staff and the principal along with their secretary. Congratulations to all. First Holy Communion for 47 Children at Bihar Sharif Parish: The Vicar General Fr. Prem Prakash celebrated the solemn Holy Eucharist on 13th December, 2015 at Sacred Heart Church, Bihar Sharif, giving first Holy Communion to 47 children. Class IX and X girls lead the communicants with an entrance dance. The Mahila Sangh welcomed the main celebrant with mala and arti. The Crus veer children led the choir under the guidance of Sr. Jemma, SRA. There was a long offertory procession by the parents of the first communicants with fruits, flowers and rice etc. Fr. Prem in his homily inspired the communicants and the faithful to experience Jesus through the sacrament of Holy Communion and live a spiritual life fitting to be “Another Christ” in their life. Soon after the Mass Fr. Vicar General distributed certificate to the first communicants. There was agape for the parents and communicants. Congratulations to Fr. James Rosario, the Parish Priest and all SRA Sisters for preparing those children to receive Jesus in their hearts. St. Mary’s Church, A.G. Colony, Rajabazar: On 20th December, 2015 the faithful of A.G. Colony, Rajabazar celebrated Parish Day. Fr. Prem, the Vicar General was the main celebrant. Frs. Devasia Chirayil, and Jose Muthuplackal, the Priest In-Charge concelebrated. During the Eucharistic celebration 4 children received First Holy Communion.    Celebration of Opening the Holy Door of Divine Mercy and Golden Jubilee of Archbishop at Kurji Parish: December 20, 2015, Parishioners of Kurji Parish had the opportunity to celebrate the opening of the Holy Door of Divine Mercy as part of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Divine Mercy. The Parishioners twined the same with the Golden Jubilee of Archbishop William D' Souza, S. J.  The faithful gathered before the stage of Hartmann Girls' High School, before the Eucharist. The Holy Eucharist began with an introduction of both the events by Mr. Gabriel John, Secretary of Parish Council. After the opening prayer, all proceeded to the main entrance of the Church. Archbishop said the prayers and opened the Holy Door for all. In his homily the Archbishop exhorted the people to become merciful in word and action, as the Father. He pointed to the human suffering all over the world due to natural and human made calamities and urged all to respond to such situations with an open and generous heart. After the Mass everyone was given tea and refreshments. Junior Clergy Get together: The junior clergy of the Archdiocese gathered at Sewa Kendra for two days’ Group Dynamics and Group Therapy between 3rd and 4th of December 2015. Fr. Peter Ladis took some time out of his legal ministry to be with them and guided them in the Group Dynamics. All the twelve participants did have a good experience of Group Therapy guided by Sr. Monica HC. Thanks to Fr. Prem Prakash, the Vicar General for taking initiative to bring all the Junior Clergy of the Archdiocese together for such wonderful ongoing formation of the priests. National Eucharistic Congress: Six delegates from Patna Archdiocese participated in the National Eucharist Congress, held in the Pius X Seminary, Goregoan, Mumbai, from 12th to 15 November, 2015. The theme of the NEC was “The Eucharist: Nourished by Christ, to Nourish Others.” The Eucharistic Congress commemorated 50 years of Blessed Pope Paul VI’s visit to India, on 2-5 Dec. 1964, to celebrate the 38th International Eucharistic Congress in Mumbai, then Bombay.  The main focus was to promote the awareness of the central place of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the Catholic Church.    Your Attention Please: For regular updates and news have a surfing at:     http://archdiocesepatna.blogspot.in/ Shrine Feast, Mokama: Mother of Divine Grace feast will be celebrated on 7th February, 2016, at Mokama Parish. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J., will be the main celebrant on the occasion. Prior to that Novena will be conducted by different Parishes for the faithful. Deanery level Recollection for Priests is scheduled to be held on 13th February, 2016. It is up to each dean to fix the place, time and a Priest to guide the recollection. Annual Statistical Data: Format for the annual statistical data is circulated to each Parish. You are supposed to provide the statistical data of 2015. Make it sure that it reaches Fr. Vicar General by 31st January, 2016.   All the Principals and Secretaries of the Archdiocesan Hindi Medium Schools of the Patna Archdiocese are invited to attend the meeting on 12th January, 2015 to 13th January, 2015 at Sewa Kendra, Patna. The Annual Examination in Catechism will be held for the Catholic Students in Schools and Parishes on 20th February, 2016. The Principals and Parish Priests are requested to order the number of question papers needed to the office of the Council of Education latest by 20th January, 2016. Office Clerk mob no. 7561998903. Annual Examination for English Subject will take place from 7th March. All the principals of Hindi medium schools should compulsorily follow the questions given by the Council of Education. Hence, you are requested to order the number of question papers needed to the office of the Council of Education latest by 20th January, 2016. Secretaries of all the Archdiocesan Schools are requested to be ready with School Budget - 2016-17 after the consultation with the principals and approved by the School Managing Committee latest by 15th January, 2016. The Budget team will visit your place from 15th January, 2016. Budget Meeting for the year 2016-17 will be held on 12th February, 2016. All the members of the Patna Archdiocesan Council of Education (PACE) are requested to free youself for the whole day session. Training Ptogramme Under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana at Sewa Kenrda, Kurji Patna: A training programme, named Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana(DDUGKY) supported by ministry of Rural development, Government of India is presently going on at Sawa Kendra, Kurji, Patna under the aegis of Coffee Day Global Ltd, Patna, as implementing agency. The scheme focuses on enhancing skill of rural youth (both male and female) for wage employment. The inclusive programme is designed to cover socially disadvantaged groups (SC/ST 50 Per., Minority 15 Per., and Women 33 Per.)  Fr. Jose Mattathilani and Fr. Deepak D' Mello, S. J., were taken to Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi for treatment on December 09, 2015. Frs. Devasia Mattathilani and Johnson Kelakath, S. J. accompanied them. Fr. Jose underwent an open heart surgery for three bypasses on 11th and has been discharged from the hospital on 17th. In the meantime Fr. Deepak was asked to undergo some more tests to ascertain the condition of his heart before it could be decided what sort of treatment he might need. Besides the heart problem he was suffering from Urinary Track Infection (UTI). He was asked to wait till this problem is normalized for any further treatment of his heart. All the same Fr. Johnson was expected to meet the doctor with all the reports of Fr. Deepak on 14th and make a decision as to what needs to be done once the UTI is settled. Hence he went to stay in St. Xavier's community. That night Fr. Deepak had meals and recreation with the community and went to bed. As he developed breathing difficulty he sought the help of Fr. Johnson who in turn called Fr. Jose Philip, the rector and rushed him to Sant Paramanda Hospital. But the plan of God for Deepak was something different. He was called to his eternal reward at 11 o'clock in the night of 13th. The mortal remains of Fr. Deepak was brought to Patna and laid to rest in the cemetery at XTTI on December 16, 2015. On the same day Sr. Alphonsa, SSH (85) was also laid to rest at Kurji Parish cemetery. Both of them worked together in Barbigha. Archdiocese will always remember the great contributions made by Fr. Deepak and Sr. Alphonsa. May their souls rest in peace.