Vatican City, April 21, 2025 — In a moment of deep sorrow for the Catholic Church and the world, Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away today at the age of 88 in the Vatican.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history on March 13, 2013, by becoming the first Jesuit pope, the first pope from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. His papacy was marked by simplicity, humility, and a strong focus on mercy, social justice, care for the poor, and environmental stewardship.

The Vatican Press Office confirmed the Pope’s death in an official statement early this morning, stating, “With deep sadness, we announce that His Holiness Pope Francis returned to the Father's house. He died peacefully at the Apostolic Palace surrounded by his closest aides and caregivers.”

In recent years, Pope Francis had been battling several health issues, including recurring respiratory infections and mobility challenges. Despite this, he continued his pastoral duties, often emphasizing joy, dialogue, and a Church that goes out to the peripheries.

World leaders, religious figures, and faithful across the globe have expressed profound grief at the passing of a pope many referred to as the “People’s Pope.” His legacy includes groundbreaking encyclicals such as Laudato Si’ on the environment and Fratelli Tutti on human fraternity, along with his efforts to reform the Roman Curia and promote interfaith dialogue.

A period of official mourning has been declared in Vatican City. The College of Cardinals will soon convene to begin preparations for the papal conclave, which will elect the next successor to St. Peter.

Funeral arrangements are underway, and details regarding public viewing and the Requiem Mass will be announced by the Vatican in the coming hours.

The world mourns a man of compassion, conviction, and courage — a shepherd who walked with his flock, listened to the cries of the poor, and constantly called for a Church of open doors and open hearts.

May his soul rest in peace.

Prayagraj, March 31, 2025: In a significant reorganization aimed at fostering fresh pastoral leadership and educational growth, the Diocese of Allahabad has announced a comprehensive list of clergy transfers and new appointments. The changes, approved by the Diocesan College of Consultors at their recent meeting, span various parishes, missions, schools, and specialized centres across the diocese. Bishop Louis Mascarenhas, in his circular dated March 31, 2025, outlined these updates that will take effect from mid-2025.

The following is an overview of the 23 transfers and placements that mark a period of rejuvenation and strategic repositioning within the diocese:

• Rev. Fr. Albert Lobo
  From: St. Xavier’s Church/School, Robertsganj
  To: Hartmann Mission/School, Hartmannganj
  Role: Priest-in-Charge/Principal
  Effective Date: June 14, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Anand K. V. John
  From: St. Anthony’s School, Pratapgarh
  To: St. Xavier’s Church/School, Robertsganj
  Role: Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 16, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Anil Rakesh Abrew
  From: St. Patrick’s Church, Kanpur
  To: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Kohdar, Meja
  Role: Priest-in-Charge/Principal (continuing as Director of Sangeet Sadhana Mandir, Pachmarhi)
  Effective Date: June 30, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Babu Francis
  From: Janhit Sadan, Naini, Prayagraj
  To: St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad
  Role: Parish Priest
  Effective Date: June 17, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Baptist D’Souza
  From: St. Joseph’s Church/School, Rihandnagar
  To: St. Peter’s Church/School, Akbarpur
  Role: Asst. Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 21, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas
  From: St. Don Bosco Church, Naini, Prayagraj
  To: St. Joseph’s Mission, Sadwa Kalan, Naini
  Role: Resident Priest
  Effective Date: Arrival on July 1, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Francis Joseph D’Souza
  From: Masih Vidyapeeth, Etmadpur, Agra
  To: St. Don Bosco Church, Naini, Prayagraj
  Role: Parish Priest
  Effective Date: June 29, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza
  From: St. Mary’s Church/School, Mirzapur
  To: St. Peter’s Church/School, Raebareli
  Role: Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 21, 2025
• Rev. Fr. James Francis
  From: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Shankergarh
  To: St. Francis Church/School, Anpara
  Role: Parish Priest/Manager
  Effective Date: June 23, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Melwin Wilson D’Souza
  From: Nazareth Hospital, Prayagraj
  To: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Sadwa Kalan, Naini
  Role: Mission-in-Charge/Principal/Diocesan Education Officer
  Effective Date: June 21, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Joseph Sagayanathan
  From: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Sadwa Kalan, Naini
  To: Vianney Niketan (Geriatric Centre), Prayagraj
  Role: Director of Vianney Niketan/Sadhana Sadan and in charge of Ajhuwa Mission
  Effective Date: June 22, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Lancy D’Cunha
  From: St. Xavier’s Church/School, Robertsganj
  To: St. Patrick’s Church, Kanpur
  Role: Parish Priest/Manager
  Effective Date: June 18, 2025
  (Note: A typographical discrepancy in the document has been assumed to indicate June 18, 2025.)
• Rev. Fr. Leo Sequeira
  From: St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad
  To: Vianney Niketan (Geriatric Centre), Prayagraj
  Role: Resident Priest
  Effective Date: Arrival on July 1, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash Lakra
  From: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Kohdar, Meja
  To: St. Anthony’s School, Pratapgarh
  Role: Asst. Parish Priest (at Holy Rosary Church)/Principal
  Effective Date: June 13, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Reginald D’Souza (VG)
  From: St. Peter’s Church/School, Raebareli
  To: St. Mary’s Church/School, Mirzapur
  Role: Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 22, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Robert Sunil Noronha
  From: St. Francis Church/School, Anpara
  To: St. Joseph’s Mission/School, Shankergarh
  Role: Priest-in-Charge/Principal
  Effective Date: June 25, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Ronald Noronha
  From: Vianney Niketan (Geriatric Centre), Prayagraj
  To: St. Joseph’s Church/School, Rihandnagar
  Role: Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 24, 2025
• Rev. Fr. William Mathias
  From: Hartmann Mission, Hartmannganj
  To: Janhit Sadan, Naini, Prayagraj
  Role: Director – DDWS/Asst. Parish Priest at St. Don Bosco Church
  Effective Date: June 18, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Wilson Cornelio
  From: St. Peter’s Church/School, Akbarpur
  To: St. Francis Church/School, Anpara
  Role: Asst. Parish Priest/Principal
  Effective Date: June 23, 2025
• Rev. Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz
  From: Vianney Niketan (Nazareth Hospital)
  To: Vianney Niketan (Geriatric Centre), Prayagraj
  Role: Resident Priest
  Effective Date: Arrival on July 1, 2025
• Rev. Dn. Ratnesh Masih
  From: [No previous posting indicated]
  To: Dostpur Mission
  Role: Asst. Parish Priest
  Effective Date: June 25, 2025
  (Notably, this transfer is scheduled a year later than the others.)
• Rev. Dn. Gnanaprakasam
  From: [No previous posting indicated]
  To: Mudila Mission
  Role: Asst. Parish Priest
  Effective Date: June 25, 2025
• Bro. Avish Lakra
  From: [No previous posting indicated]
  To: Asnaband Mission
  Role: Regent
  Effective Date: June 1, 2025

The announcements underscore a strategic objective by the diocese to realign its pastoral resources in response to evolving community needs. The transfers not only aim to rejuvenate spiritual leadership at several key locations but also reinforce the educational mission of the diocese, with numerous priests assuming responsibilities as school principals and educational officers.

Bishop Mascarenhas emphasized in his letter that these changes are implemented with careful consideration to ensure that new administrators are well-equipped to manage both pastoral and administrative functions. The Bishop’s directives also stress the importance of maintaining complete records and orderly transitions, mandating that no new appointments be processed once the transfer list is finalized.

As the Diocese of Allahabad enters this phase of dynamic restructuring, the clergy involved are entrusted with the dual responsibility of shepherding their congregations and advancing diocesan education and mission work. With the pastoral calendar set amidst the Lenten and Easter seasons, the Diocese anticipates that these fresh appointments will foster renewed community spirit and effective ministry across its regions.

Allahabad, March 12, 2025 – A one-day Seminar on Liturgy was organized at Sadhana Sadan, Prayagraj aimed at enriching the clergy and religious with a deeper understanding of liturgy as the heart of the Church. The event was presided over by Most Rev. Louis Mascarenhas, Bishop of Allahabad Diocese, and featured Rev. Fr. Rudolph Raj Pinto OCD, Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Liturgy, as the main speaker.

Bishop Mascarenhas, in his inaugural address, urged participants to approach liturgy with reverence and awe, emphasizing its role as a sacred encounter with Christ rather than a mere ritual. He highlighted the transformative power of liturgy in fostering spiritual growth and unity within the Church.

Rev. Fr. Pinto delivered a compelling session on the theme “Journeying towards a Synodal Church: Formation on Information.” He underscored the centrality of liturgy in Church life and emphasized the need for continuous formation to ensure meaningful participation. He described liturgy as a vital force for deepening faith and strengthening the Church’s mission.

The seminar commenced with an inaugural session led by Fr. Reginald D'Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese, who proclaimed the Word of God. A symbolic lamp-lighting ceremony followed, representing Christ as the guiding light for liturgical renewal.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop Mascarenhas, reinforcing the seminar’s message that the Eucharist is central to Christian life. Subsequent sessions explored theological and pastoral dimensions of liturgy, offering participants practical insights for implementation in their communities. The question answer session cleared air of many of the participants on various issues concerning liturgy.

The event was meticulously coordinated by Fr. Ronald Noronha, Diocesan Secretary for Liturgy. Sr. Rose George UMI concluded the seminar with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors and participants for their dedication to enhancing liturgical life.

The seminar concluded with a tea session, leaving attendees inspired to foster liturgical renewal in their respective ministries.

“Accept me O Lord,” was the voice from the heart of four young virgins committed their lives to the service of God and humanity by taking the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience on 28^th January 2017 in St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad in the presence of Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of Allahabad and Rev. Sr. Genesia CSN, the Provincial Superior of the Congregation of the Sisters of Nazareth.

Sisters Diana, Vinisha (both from Kerala) Angela and Merry (both from Assam) belong to the Allahabad Province of the Congregation of the Sisters of Nazareth. 

In a touching and meaningful ceremony, the brides along with their parents and CSN sisters, priests and bishop moved in procession to the altar. The parents blessed them before they stepped forward to commit totally for the Lord. The bishop then blessed them, blessed their new attire and handed over the new attire, Bible, the Constitution of the Congregation and the Lighted lamp symbolising that they need to burn always serving the least and the lost in the society.

At the end Sr. Angela thanked everyone for making the day memorable and beautiful for them. A short programme was organized after the mass in the CSN Provincialate where the ‘Brides’ cut the cake and felicitations were offered to them.

We congratulate Srs. Angela, Diana, Merry and Vinisha, and wish them happy and a fulfilling religious life. 

 “Mother Teresa worked tirelessly forgetting her own self for the wellbeing of the humanity. She is an ideal for care and service. Inspired by her life the diocese of Allahabad pledges to open an institute for the dying and destitute and another institute for the education of the blind children in the city of Allahabad,” said Bishop Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Allahabad, speaking at a function organised to honour Saint Mother Teresa at St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad on Sunday morning.

The programme began with a prayer service which included Bible reading, worship songs, prayers, offerings and exhortation. The congregation in one voice prayed for the Sisters of Missionaries of Charity who are caring for the rejected and orphaned children for the last 35 years in Shishu Bhavan, Muirabad. During the service, Bishop Raphy exhorted every one present to become a symbol of love for the last, least and the lost in the society.

During the programme, the Sisters of Missionaries of Charity were felicitated with garland and bouquets for the great humanitarian work that they are rendering in the city of Allahabad. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, the Vicar General of the diocese appreciated the work which the MC Sisters are doing at the grass root level in the society. The children and youth presented dance, group songs etc. The prayer dance by the Students of Nazareth Niwas, solo dance by Falak Bhatnagar, instrumental piece on piano by Alan Philip, group song from the inmates of Shishu Bhavan, groups dance by the tiny tots of Shishu Bhavan captured the attention of all.

There were almost five hundred people present to witness this great event. Besides Fr. Rolfie, Fr. Reginald, Fr. K. K. Antony the well-known figures in the city of Allahabad, there were also Fr. William D’Souza, Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz, Fr. Ambose D’Souza who rendered service in St. Mary’s Church previously. Fr. Anumod IMS, the officiating parish priest proposed the vote of thanks.

September 5: The canonisation of Mother Teresa, the official declaration of Mother Teresa as a saint in the Vatican City on 4^th September 2016 was celebrated with great pomp and show in the city of Allahabad yesterday morning. The celebration began in the morning when thousands of people gathered at Sisters of Missionaries of Charity, Muirabad, for a vehicle rally along with Bishop Raphy Manjaly, priests, nuns and people. The joy and enthusiasm of the people was very obvious when they moved in procession in their motor cycles, four wheelers and busses with devotion and discipline waving in their hands the flags of Mother Teresa while the DJ resounded meaningfully ‘dur desh ki ek prem kiran bharat desh me chamak gayi ….’, ‘dhanya Mother Teresa gareebo ki tu masiha …’, ‘teri mamta ki chaaya me dhanya ye sansaar … ’, ‘maa Mother Teresa tuje pranam …’. Moving on Stanley road the procession passed through Beli Raod, Police Line, Mayo Hall and Lok Sewa Ayog Chauraha, finally ending at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

When Pope Francis canonised Mother Teresa at the Vatican on September 4, she was officially recognised as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church. However, she was a living saint, a person worked selflessly for the care and uplift of the dying, destitute and orphans. Bishop Raphy Manjaly exhorting the people gathered for prayers enumerated Mother Teresa’s qualities. He said that Mother had complete trust in God; had tremendous love of God; was a symbol of humility and simplicity; was living Bible serving least and the lost and served humanity with deep sense of commitment. The Bishop, priests, nuns and laity offered prayers and sang hymns worshipping the heavenly Father, thanking for Saint Teresa of Kolkata.

After the prayer service, the Phila Foundation, Allahabad organised the release of special cover and postal cards in the Cathedral Campus in honour of Saint Teresa of Kolkata. Bishop Raphy Manjaly Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Allahabad; Mr. Sunil Kumar Rai Indian Postal Service, Director, Allahabad Region; Sr. Jeevan MC Superior of Directress of Shishu Bhavan Muirabad and other dignitaries released six different types of postal cards.

Fr. Francis Xavier, Rector St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Fr. Rolfie D’Souza Principal St. Joseph’s College, Fr. Reginald D’Souza Director Nazareth Hospital, Fr. Ronald Tellis Rector St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Fr. K.K. Antony Director DDWS, Sr. Rosamma FDCC, Sr. Terecine CJ, Sr. Rosily CJ, Rini Yesu Secretary Sahayta Mitra Mandali and Mr. Sanjay Parihar were some of the other dignitaries present to mark the occasion.

A special Inter Religious Prayer Service and cum Cultural program will be held in honour of Saint Teresa of Kolkata at 5.30 pm in St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad on 5^th September 2016.

The Catholic Diocese of Allahabad celebrated the Year of Consecrated Life on Thursday, September 17, 2015. Priests, sisters and lay persons from 12 districts of U.P. gathered at Allahabad to celebrate the mega event with much enthusiasm. The celebrations were held in St. Joseph’s College Auditorium. The entire program consisted of two parts; one spiritual and the other cultural. The program began at 9:30 a.m. with a solemn candle light procession from St. Joseph’s Cathedral to St. Joseph’s College Auditorium. After a short prayer service, Sr. Jane, Principal Teacher Training College gave a talk on the history of the religious life, expectations and challenges facing the religious in today’s context. Fr. Leo Sequeira, Director of Sadhana Sadan in his message explained about the three essential that constitute religious life, namely deep spiritual experience, sense of mission and community. He appealed to the religious to engage in dialogue, foster the spirit of pluralism, save families and be on the side of the excluded. This was followed by solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided by Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly. In his message he said that the religious are called to re-dedicate themselves totally to the cause of humanity through their service in areas of education, health, social action etc.

After lunch, there was a colourful and beautiful cultural program during which Religious Fathers, Brothers and Sisters who worked longest were honoured. Children from St. Mary’s College, St. Anthony’s School, Bethany Convent School, Nazareth School of Nursing, St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Shishu Bhawan and St. Mary’s Convent 21 presented pleasing and meaningful cultural programmes with songs, dance and Tableau.

Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, Vicar General, Diocese of Allahabad welcomed our Chief Guest Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly, esteemed Provincials, Superiors, Fathers, and Brothers and all the participants. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, the Director for Religious too felicitated and appreciated the services rendered by the religious in the diocese. With profound gratitude Ms. Ankit Kerketta from Kidwainagar, Mr. Praful Tirkey from Anpara, Mrs. Mary Samuel from Allahabad extended words of appreciation and honour for the services rendered by the religious for many years. Sr. Germaine proposed vote of thanks on behalf of the religious while Fr. Rolfie D’Souza the convener expressed gratitude to all those people who made this event a successful one.

Seventeen students of theology from St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad belonging to the various dioceses of North India stepped up to the altar of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad and pledged their total commitment to the Lord during a solemn Eucharistic Celebration as they were ordained deacons by Rt. Rev. Dr. Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of the Diocese of Allahabad on Sunday, 9^th August 2015 at 9.30 am.

The Seminarians who were ordained as deacons are: Amal Raj (Meerut), Bharti Kumar Sanjay (Varanasi), Coth Arun (Lucknow), D’Souza Melwin Maxim (Jaipur), D’Souza Naveen (Bareilly), Francis Sanjay (Meerut), Gonsalves Stephen (Meerut), Kullu Prakash Samir (Lucknow), Kumar Sunil (Bareilly), Ladella Joseph Prakash (Jhansi), Melvin Robin (Meerut), Mendonca Henry (Bareilly), Preas Antony (Agra), Rathore Alok Raphael (Ajmer), Marceline (Jhansi), Tellis Nelson Prakash (Delhi), and Lakwin (Jaipur).

This ceremony of Ordination to the Diaconate was witnessed by more than eighty priests, several other religious persons, parishioners and many well-wishers from in and around the city of Allahabad. The Bishop in his homily appealed all the deacons to bear witness to Christ through their faith and by a life of simplicity. The celebration came to end at 12.15 p.m. followed by refreshment for all the people present. Later in the Seminary, Rev. Fr. Francis D’Souza, the Rector congratulated the deacons following which they were accorded a floral felicitation too. Their joy further enhanced when they cut the cake and shared it with their companions and others.

Pope Francis, on Sunday 23^rd November 2014, declared two Indians - Kuriakose Elias Chavara and Euphrasia Eluvathingal - saints of the Catholic Church in a solemn ceremony held at St Peter’s Square, Vatican City.

Thousands of Indians from all over the world including priests, religious and laity gathered for the canonization of two Kerala saints. Among the faithful participating the event are scores of bishops and four Cardinals from India including two from Kerala (Gracias, Cleemis, Alencherry and Toppo). The official Indian delegation was led by Mr P J Kurien, Deputy Speaker of Rajya Sabha.

It is reported that currently there are 29 Indians at various stages of the process of sainthood.

FR. KURIAKOSE ELIAS CHAVARA

Fr Kuriakose Elias Chavara who lived in the 19th century Kerala is reckoned as a social reformer and visionary priest. Pope John Paul II during his visit to Kerala on 8 February 1986 declared Fr Chavara blessed along with sister Alphonsa, who was made a saint in 2008.

Born in 1805 at Kainakari in Alappuzha district, Fr Chavara was ordained priest in 1829 and is credited with introducing reforms in the Syrian Catholic Church, especially popularizing religious instruction and retreat for laymen. He founded the first Indian congregation for men called the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate, and for women, the Carmelites of Mother Carmel (CMC).

He started the first printing press in his monastery at Mannanam in Kottayam, which went on to bring out the first Malayalam daily newspaper, Nasrani Deepika, which today is known as Rashtra Deepika.

His pioneering contribution to society was to establish a school along with church, a campaign started in 1864 when he decreed that every palli (church) must have a pallikoodam (school) which continues to be a permanent feature even today. Fr. Chavara also started boarding schools for girls and special schools for the weaker sections.

SR. EUPHRASIA

Sr Euphrasia who lived in the 19th and 20th century Kearala led a life dedicated to prayer and sufferings. A member of the Congregation of the Mother Carmel established by Chavara in 1866 she was born in 1877 at Katoor in Thrissur district in a rich family, and was known as Rose before becoming a nun. She joined the CMC and became a nun in 1898, and took the name Euphrasia and led her life mostly in the convent chapel at Ollur in Thrissur. She was known as “the praying mother” and revered as a living saint among the nuns.

She died in 1952 at age 75, and was buried at Ollur. Years later, the tomb of the nun, who prayed for a silent and secluded life, turned to a pilgrim centre. Several miracles were reported from the faithful through heavenly intercession of Euphrasia.

With this canonization event, India has four saints of the Indian origin, the first being St. Gonsalo Garcia (1556-1597) a Roman Catholic Franciscan friar from India, who died as a martyr in Japan and the first Indian to attain sainthood. Born in the western coastal town of Vasai to Portuguese Father and a native Indian mother, he was canonized in 1862 by Pope Pius IX.

The second was the more recent and the first woman saint and first saint of the Church in Kerala, St. Alphonsa Muttathupadathu, who lived as an unknown simple Clarist nun within the four walls of the Franciscan Clarist convent. She was canonized on 12 October 2008 by Pope Benedict XVI.

Courtesy: Mattersindia

The Sacred Heart Convent School, Obra celebrated - “Jubilate” - the Golden Jubilee of their existence and their contribution in the field of education, on Saturday, November 22, 2014 with a concelebrated high mass in the morning at 10.30 with Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the bishop of Allahabad as the main celebrant and an entertaining cultural evening at 4.30 pm. The Bishop was the chief guest for the program while Mr. Ajay Sharma and Mr. Sanjay Tiwari were the guests of honour.

It may be recalled that Sacred Heart Convent School an English medium Co-Educational institution was established in 1965 with a humble beginning at office Club No.1, to cater to the need of providing English medium education to the children of UPSEB employees. The school got affiliation with CBSE board in 1979 and at present it is located in the heart of the city of Obra. Since its inception the school has been trailblazer in the field of education and has been providing quality education to the children of Obra, Chopan and Dalla.

The Bishop felicitated the Sisters of Ursuline Mary Immaculate for their selfless service in educating the young minds not just with knowledge but also with kingdom values. He urged the students to work untiringly for three-fold commitments, that is, commitment to oneself, commitment to the society and the commitment to God.

Earlier the Bishop offered solemn Eucharist along with the priests of the region, parishioners and guests, and prayed for the Ursuline Sisters, teachers, students and the families of the students. At the end of the Mass all the sisters who served in Obra were honoured with a shawl by the Bishop. Besides the Provincial Sr. Rupa, all the principals too were in a similar way honoured during the cultural program by the Bishop. Three teachers and two supporting staff too were honoured for their long tenure of service in this institution. The students who topped in March 2014 too were awarded with the trophies.

The colourful cultural program consisting of rhythmic group songs, inspiring skits and scintillating dances kept every one spell bound. The program ‘God still loves the world’ brought out beautifully how various prophetic figures emerged to let the world know how God still loves the world. The prophetic works of Mother Brigida Moreillo were the ones which inspired the Ursulines to work vigourously for the uplift of the society though education, health and social works. Everyone was wonderstruck with the quality with which the program was presented by the students. The students too beautifully anchored the program.

Sr. Kiran Goerge, the principal welcomed everyone for this auspicious celebration. Sr. Patricia, the Superior and Manager of the School proposed vote of thanks. The program ended with the national anthem followed by the sumptuous dinner to the invitees. 

The Diocesan Development and Welfare Society (DDWS) in collaboration with St. Mary’s Convent, Allahabad celebrated the Children’s Day for the less privileged children from the slums with lots of joy and enthusiasm at the premises of St. Mary’s Convent School and College, Allahabad on 16^thNovember 2014. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad inaugurated the program. After the initial prayer, Rev. Fr. Antony K.K., Director DDWS, welcomed the Bishop, children and all the teachers. 

The Inaugural session began with the welcome song presented by the children from the slums of Gaughat. Bishop Raphy in his address blessed and encouraged the children and appreciated the efforts being made by them. He also appreciated the initiatives being taken by the children of slum to come forward.  Bishop Raphy described the importance of Children’s Day to the children and also motivated them by his inspiring speech.

Approximately 500 children came from the 20 literacy centres established by DDWS from various parts of Allahabad. The main aim of the programme was to give importance to the children of slums as they are also special and deserve to achieve their growth and dreams in the healthy surrounding and so attain their full potential to lead a meaningful life in the future.

Further Bishop Raphy Manjaly came forward to bless the children. All the children offered a bouquet and were happy to be blessed by the Bishop. He interacted with the children and blessed them for their bright future. A group dance was also performed by the children in the presence of Bishop.

The programs were conducted by DDWS staff & USM Students. Various activities were planned specially for this day. This year the children participated in various activities such as frog race, 100 metre race, dance, singing etc. A musical chair was conducted for the teachers of the slum. The children’s joy knew no bounds as they witnessed their teachers in action during the musical chair.  They clapped, applauded and cheered for their respective teachers.

Sr. Rosily, Mrs. Ulfat Ahmad, Mrs. Khosala, Mrs. Mary Samuel, Miss Sumati, Mr. Anurag Sharma, Sr. Benita, Sr. Theopine, Sr. Marina, Mr. Vivek Tiwari, Sr. Marriete Principal, St. Mary’s Convent School and College distributed prizes to the children and teachers of slum.  Thereafter children put up some cultural programs which were appreciated by everyone.

The children and teachers of slum thanked DDWS & SMC family for making this day memorable one. Finally the programme came to an end with the distribution of lunch packets to all who were present in this celebration.

Rev. Sr. Angela Cozzini, fondly known as ‘Mother Angela’ a great Canossian Missionary from Italy belonging to the Queen of Province Lucknow went to her heavenly abode this evening (November 5, 2014) at 6.05 hours. She was ailing due to old age and cardiac problems in Maria Sadan, Lucknow.

Born on the 4^th September 1924, at Trento in Italy to Mr. Luigi Cozzini and Mrs. Giuseppina Cozzini, Mother Angela joined the Canossian Congregation just a month after India received her Independence in 1947. After her initial formation and her first profession in 1950 in Vimercate in Italy, she desired to become a missionary and to serve in India. Hence, she arrived at Mumbai, India on 18^th June, 1951. She worked for twenty years in Pratapgarh before she moved to Maharashtra to work as the Superior and Nurse in Andheri, Manickpur and Shirpur.  She returned to Pratapgarh again, this time with the additional responsibility to animate the community. She had been in Maria Sadan Lucknow since 1998.

Mother Angela who lived a saintly life is remembered for her simplicity and caring nature. All those who met her received from her some positive strokes. Always grateful and appreciative, Mother had complete trust in the providence of the Lord.  She was a devout and prayerful person who even recited the rosary just two hours before her departure from her earthly abode.

The mortal remains of Mother Angela will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Lucknow, after the funeral rites, to be held in Maria Sadan from 3.00 pm on 7th November 2014 in the presence of Bishop Gerald Mathias, Vicar General Rev. Fr. Ronald D’Souza, Canossian Provincial Rev. Sr. Elizabeth, priests, religious and laity of Lucknow and neighbouring dioceses.

The diocese of Allahabad places on record the 28 youthful and energetic years of service which she rendered in Pratapgarh caring for the sick and needy. She was in St. Francis Convent Pratapgarh and Canossa Hospital, Pratapgarh from 1953 to 1973 and again from 1987-1992. She also nursed the sick in Allahabad as an incharge of the Dispensary from 1995-1998.

Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace.

Rev. Sr. Stella Ayamcolil, aged 61, belonging to the Canossian Daughters of Charity, Queen of Peace Province, Lucknow did not see the sun on 26^th October 2014 as she went to her Father’s house, breathing her last at 3.15 am in St. Francis Convent, Pratapgarh.

Hailing originally from Peruppaloor in Kothamangalam diocese in Kerala, Sr. Stella was the eldest among the six children of the devout family of Mr. Joseph & Ms. Mariam. She was blessed with 3 brothers and 2 sisters, of whom one brother has already gone to the eternal abode. She left her home in 1973 to commit her life to the Lord. Though she had her formation in Andheri, Mumbai, yet after her first profession in 1976 she served untiringly in North India. She committed totally to the Lord during her Final Profession in Palai, Kerala, in 1983.  She spent her life as an educationist specialized in Mathematics, in Bareilly, Faizabad and Mahmudabad. The diocese of Allahabad places on record the services rendered by her in Faizabad. She had been on treatment for cancer from 2013. Having fought between life and death for the last two months, she closed her chapter of life on earth early this morning.  

The mortal remains of Sr. Stella will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Rajapur, Allahabad after the funeral rites in St. Anthony’s Convent, Allahabad at 10.30 am on Tuesday 28th October 2014 in the presence of Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of Allahabad, Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Thottumari, the Provincial of Queen of Peace Province, Lucknow, Vicar General Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, Chancellor Rev. K.K. Antony, parish priest Rev. Fr. John Louis D’Souza, many other priests, religious and laity.

Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace.

More than 7,000 people from various religions and walks of life bid tearful farewell to Bishop Patrick Paul D’Souza on Saturday 18 Oct 2014 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Varanasi.

Bishop D’Souza, the first prelate of Varanasi, died Thursday at a Catholic hospital in Mau, some 120 km north of the ancient city. His body was brought to Varanasi the same evening to allow people to pay him tribute.

On Saturday, Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara of Nagpur led the funeral Mass at the bishop’s house, assisted by several bishops and 450 priests.

Dr. Sumedh Thero, president of Indo-Sri Lankan Association, and Professor Gnawang Samdhen, vice chancellor, Central Buddhist University, Sarnath, and several political leaders were among those present at the funeral that began at 1:25 pm.

After the introductory funeral rites in the bishop’s house, the priests of the diocese, vested and carried the mortal remains of Bishop Patrick to Mata Mandir (temple of mother), the cathedral church in a solemn procession.

Fr. Eugene Joseph, administrator of Varanasi diocese, welcomed the assembly. He read out the condolence message from Pope Francis that highlighted Bishop D’Souza’s “long life and priestly service, especially his apostolic zeal” as the founding bishop of the diocese. He further added that bishop was as a shepherd, father and friend; teacher and leader; man on mission indeed.

Bishop Raphy Manjaly of Allahabad, in his homily hailed the late prelate as “a precious pearl that we have lost forever.” Bishop Manjaly, who had succeeded Bishop D’Souza as the Varanasi prelate, said the entire Church in northern India was sad “because we have lost a shepherd of his flock, who gave life to the diocese, in various ways. He was a man of vision who toiled for peace and harmony, national integrity and opened avenues for differently-abled children.”

Bishop emeritus Antony Fernandez of Bareilly, who represented all the bishops of the region, commended Bishop D’Souza’s contribution to the local culture, hymns and language. “Today he has given us a challenge to stride the path as he had done,” Bishop Fernandez said.

Father Maurice D’Souza, who represented the diocesan priests, said the growth of the diocese under Bishop D’Souza was indescribable. “His toil is today’s fruit,” he added.

Fr. Sudheer D’Souza, nephew of late prelate, thanked the assembly for the family.

Jesuit Archbishop William D’Souza of Patna led the funeral rites in the cathedral. Bishop D’Souza was buried in front of the cathedral that he had built to present Christ in the heart of the holiest city of Hindus.

Courtesy: MattersIndia

Rev. Fr. Ignatius D’Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese of Allahabad was consecrated as the Bishop of Bareilly by the Nuncio, Most Rev. Fr. Salvatore Pennacchio during a solemn Eucharistic Celebrated commenced at 9 am on 4^th October 2014, at the Cathedral Grounds in Bareilly. He will succeed Rt. Rev. Anthony Fernandes, the first Bishop of Bareilly which was erected in 1989.

Most Rev. Albert D’Souza Archbishop of Agra highlighted the responsibilities laid upon the shoulders of a Bishop. He encouraged the new Bishop, while also praising the retiring bishop, Rt. Rev. Anthony Fernandes, for his tremendous zeal and unflagging efforts in shaping the infant Diocese, making it what it is today.

The Consecration of the new Bishop took place in the presence of the Bishops, about 300 priests, about 600 religious and about 2000 laity. At the appropriate time, the Apostolic Letter of nomination by the Holy Father, Francis I, was read out. The Nuncio examined the candidate and proceeded with the consecration rites. The Holy Spirit was invoked while the Bishop elect lay prostrate before the altar. The choir intoned the Litany of the Saints.

All the bishops laid their hands on the newly elected, praying the Holy Spirit to give him the strength to shepherd the flock entrusted to him. He was then anointed with chrism, presented the Book of the Gospels, invested with the ring, the mitre and the pastoral Cross, all signs of the Bishopric. He was then welcomed by the bishops present, exchanging the kiss of peace with them and with the priests of the Diocese of Bareilly, who will be his direct collaborators in his mission.

The Eucharistic Celebration was followed by a felicitation programme which included speeches by several bishops, interspersed by colourful dances performed by the students of the city schools. After the thanksgiving speech of the new Bishop, his mother who just turned 80, was helped up to the stage to cut a cake together with her son. 

The new bishop called all share his motto “to serve the Lord with gladness.” He has 23 years of experience in pastoral, ministerial and administrative fields. He was ordained on April 7, 1991, in Lucknow. Known for his flair for languages, the new bishop can speak fluently English, Italian, German, Hindi, Kannada, Konkani and Tulu. He mastered Hebrew, Greek, Syriac, Latin, Aramaic as part of Biblical Language Studies.

It was a red letter day for Nazareth Hospital School of Nursing Allahabad, when Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly Inaugurated the Silver Jubilee Year of Nazareth Hospital School of Nursing by lighting a Jubilee Lamp on September 28, 2014. The day began with a Solemn Mass at 6:30 a.m. at the Hospital Chapel. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly was the main celebrant for the occasion. Rev. Fr. Reginald  D'Souza, our  Director ,  Rev. Fr. K.K. Antony, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mascarenhas  our former directors Fr Vipin D Souza our Administrator and Fr Francis Xavier were present  during the Holy Eucharist. Bishop Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad declared the Jubilee year Open by lighting the Jubilee Lamp. Rev. Sr Preema Principal of School of Nursing narrated a brief history of the School and highlighted the milestones that the school has achieved over the past 24 years.

Bro. Stephen Joy Rodrigues is ordained a deacon for the diocese of Allahabad by Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the bishop of Allahabad in St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 9.30 am on Sunday, August 10, 2014 where another 29 of his companions too were incorporated into the clergy group for the various dioceses of North India.

Born to the Rodrigues family of Joachim and Cicilia in Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar, Mangalore Diocese, on 17^th September 1983, Rev. Joy joined the diocese of Allahabad in 2006 after completion of his graduation. He was sent to Masih Gurukul Varanasi for the initial studies after which he did his spiritual orientation and philosophical studies in St. Xavier’s Regional Seminary, Etmadpur, Agra. Presently he is pursuing his theological studies in St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad since July 2011.

Exhorting the Ordinadis, the Bishop said, “Be passionate for Christ and let your passion be expressed in your humble service to the humanity.” Then the Bishop administered the vow of obedience, prayed over them by laying of hands, offered Bible for breaking the Word and finally gave the kiss of peace and welcomed them into the group of clergy.

There were about 90 priests present from the North Indian Dioceses to witness this great occasion and to pray for the deacons. Bro. Ivan Rodrigues, belonging to the Dominicans, presently in second year theology in Nagpur was present representing the entire family. His paternal uncle, Rev. Fr. George Rodrigues, also a priest of Allahabad diocese, vested him in the Deacon’s garment.

The parishioners of St. Joseph’s Cathedral felicitated all the Deacons with a garland. Later they were also felicitated in the seminary by Rev. Fr. Francis D’Souza, Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary and the Staff and Seminarians in the presence of the eminent guests. The celebration ended with a sumptuous meal.Bro. Stephen Joy Rodrigues is ordained a deacon for the diocese of Allahabad by Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the bishop of Allahabad in St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 9.30 am on Sunday, August 10, 2014 where another 29 of his companions too were incorporated into the clergy group for the various dioceses of North India.

Born to the Rodrigues family of Joachim and Cicilia in Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar, Mangalore Diocese, on 17^th September 1983, Rev. Joy joined the diocese of Allahabad in 2006 after completion of his graduation. He was sent to Masih Gurukul Varanasi for the initial studies after which he did his spiritual orientation and philosophical studies in St. Xavier’s Regional Seminary, Etmadpur, Agra. Presently he is pursuing his theological studies in St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad since July 2011.

Exhorting the Ordinadis, the Bishop said, “Be passionate for Christ and let your passion be expressed in your humble service to the humanity.” Then the Bishop administered the vow of obedience, prayed over them by laying of hands, offered Bible for breaking the Word and finally gave the kiss of peace and welcomed them into the group of clergy.

There were about 90 priests present from the North Indian Dioceses to witness this great occasion and to pray for the deacons. Bro. Ivan Rodrigues, belonging to the Dominicans, presently in second year theology in Nagpur was present representing the entire family. His paternal uncle, Rev. Fr. George Rodrigues, also a priest of Allahabad diocese, vested him in the Deacon’s garment.

The parishioners of St. Joseph’s Cathedral felicitated all the Deacons with a garland. Later they were also felicitated in the seminary by Rev. Fr. Francis D’Souza, Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary and the Staff and Seminarians in the presence of the eminent guests. The celebration ended with a sumptuous meal.

The soul of our dear Sister Mary Canice of Infant Jesus, belonging to the Congregation of the Bethany Sisters, departed this life due to a massive heart attack today (on 18.07.2014) at 10.45 a.m. in the 55^th year of her Religious Profession and 78^th year of her life. She was a member of Stella Maris Convent, Sultanpur. May her soul rest in peace.

Hailed from Kuntalpadi, Karkala, Udupi Distt, Karnataka, she was the youngest among the nine children of Late Mr Paul Pinto and Late Mrs Clara Pinto. After her First Profession in 1959 she served in our communities at Bajpe, Bendore, Mudigere, Kulshekar, Bangalore, Mulki, Sultanpur, Ludhiana, Kadru, Samalka, Bathinda and Ludhiana as a teacher, Superior of communities, and in-charge of candidates. She was the Regional Superior of Northern and North East Region for six years. From 2002 onwards she was spending her time in prayer and works of charity.

She was always cheerful and lived a disciplined life. Her only desire was to be a Saint. She was a deeply spiritual person, loving and understanding, kind and charitable, simple in her lifestyle and childlike in her attitudes, and ever willing to render any service to others.

The funeral Ceremony will be held at 3 pm on Sunday, 20.07.2014 at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad. Sr. Shaila BS, the Provincial Superior of the Eastern Province will be present to bid her farewell from this earth. 

Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of Allahabad and Chairman of the Education Society inaugurated the newly built building of St. Joseph’s School at Kaitha Lakhanpur on the road to Banda near Shankergarh, by cutting the ribbon in presence of Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, the Vicar General and the Guest of Honour, Mr. Moti Singh, the Pradhan of Kaitha-Lakhanpur, Rev. Fr. Albert lobo the principal, Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira his successor from July 2014, Rev. Sr. Salesia CJ the superior of St. St. Mary’s Convent, Taraon, Rev. Sr. Monica FDCC the superior of St. Anthony’s Convent, Allahabad, eminent guest priests, nuns, parents and students, and the citizens of Shivrajpur at 4.30 pm on 22nd June, 2014. The Chief Guest and the Guest of honour then unveiled the memorial stone.

Earlier, Bishop Raphy offered the Holy Eucharist along with a dozen of priests, nuns and laity against the odds of tent-lifting blow of the winds.  He prayed for the success of the educational institute. Thereafter, Rev. Fr. Albert Lobo briefing the report of the School recalled the untiring hard work and the commitment of the founder father, Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto. He then welcomed all the eminent personalities with a bouquet each.

Speaking on the occasion Bishop Raphy, the chief guest, praised the hardwork of Fr. Albert Lobo the Principal, who put up a beautiful building within a short span of time. He said that this premiere institute would excel not only in imparting education but also in forming the young minds with social and moral values. The students who pass through the portals of this institution will be able to face life in the world outside. The Bishop and the Vicar General cut the ribbon, unveiled the memorial stone and blessed the buildings sprinkling holy water on them.

Ms Akansha Manjhi proposed vote of thanks. The short program came to end with refreshments to all, after which God blessed us with a rain.

A singing nun clinched the final of The Voice of Italy television talent show contest on Friday after winning millions of followers with her lively dance act and soulful renditions of lusty pop classics. Wearing her black habit and a crucifix around her neck, Sister Cristina punched the air and thanked God for her victory, reciting an "Our Father" prayer to the puzzlement of organisers and audience.

"I want Jesus to come in here!" said the 25-year-old who won against a 28-year-old hard rocker with long curly hair who had performed Stairway to Heaven. Sister Cristina, a reformed rebel who used to sing in a band and now lives with fellow nuns in Milan, has won a record contract with Universal but she hinted she might shun a full rock'n'roll career. "I will go back to my priorities - prayer, waking up early in the morning, school service. That's fundamental for me to be able to begin something new later on," the Sicily native told reporters.

Sister Cristina said she was following Pope Francis's appeals to bring the Catholic Church closer to ordinary people and was not shy about her newfound success. "I have a gift to give, and I am giving it to you, what can I do about that? Jesus has called upon me. It wouldn't be worth much if I kept it for myself," she said. She shot to television fame in recent months in the predominantly Catholic country with her versions of songs like ‘Girls Just Want To Have Fun’ and ‘Time of My Life’ from the film "Dirty Dancing".

It was a performance of Alicia Keys's ‘No One’ that first drew attention to her in March and she sang the tune again on Friday to cheers from an audience that included nuns from her Ursuline Order. Sister Cristina has already sung alongside Kylie Minogue and Ricky Martin during the show and Keys defined as "pure energy" Suor Cristina's performance, which received more than 50 million YouTube hits.

Sister Cristina has said she was once distant from religion but was inspired to be a nun when she auditioned for a part in a musical about the founder of the Ursuline Order, Saint Angela Merici. She became a novice in 2009 and worked for two years with poor children in Brazil before formally joining the order although she still has to take her final vows.

Source: PA

Death visited our dear Sr. Floriana UMI at Mariampur Convent at 7.20 am on June 3^rd 2014.

Sr. Floriana Kalayil was born on February 2, 1942 in Vazhakulam, Kothamangalam Diocese, Kerala. She was the 7^th child among 3 brothers and 6 sisters born to Mr.  K. V. Mathew & Mrs.  K.V. Mary. After completing her studies she joined the congregation of the UMI Sisters at Kannur on 28^th Jan, 1960, was professed on 23^rd May, 1963 and Final professed on 23^rd May, 1968. Soon after her final profession she came to North India as a missionary. As a trained teacher Sr. Floriana has taught in our schools at Kannur and Trivandrum in South India. Her first posting in north India was at Sacred Convent, Obra where she was a committed teacher. In this capacity she has served the UMI institutions at Renukoot,  Robertsganj, Kathgodam, Mariampur, Bhowali, St. Joseph’s Convent, Kanpur and Mariampur Convent Kanpur. Good at music, singing, dancing and other extra-curricular activities Sr. Floriana had been a skilful and resourceful teacher.

From 2002 onwards she was a member of St. Josephs Convent, Chakeri. She had a fall in 2011 whereby she fractured the neck of the right femur and was cemented Bipolar Hip Athroplasty. Gradually she developed Type 2 Diabetis mellitus with cardio vascular Atropy. As she grew seriously ill she was again admitted in Mariampur Hospital on 28^th October 2013.  She was suffering from respiratory disease. Ever since, she has been on continuous treatment at Mariampur Hospital by our physicians and orthopedic doctors. She was discharged and was brought to Mariampur Convent and was under medical care of our sisters from our Mariampur Hospital.

On 2^nd June night onwards she grew restless and showed signs of gasping. The following morning soon after the Holy Mass Fr. Sunil Mascarenhas and all the Sisters to Sr. Floriana’s room and prayed for her. Fr. blessed her and all dispersed for breakfast. However, before they could have finished their breakfast Sr. Floriana grew serious and the priest was called again to attend her.  All the Sisters rushed to her room and prayed for her. Soon after the priest prayed over her, all the Sisters stood around her as she breathed her last at 7.20 am.

The diocese of Allahabad treasures the happy memories and the dedicated life and committed service rendered by Sr. Floriana in various parts of the diocese.

The final rites of Sr. Floriana will take place at 7 am in Mariampur Convent on Wednesday 4^th June, after which the mortal remains will be laid to rest at Chunniganj Christian Cemetery.

Rome: Cardinal Duraisamy Simon Lourdusamy, the first Asian to become a member of the Roman Curia and the first Tamil become a prince of the Church, died Monday in Rome. He was 90.

Cardinal Lourdusamy was leading a retired life in Rome when the end came Monday morning. He has served several Vatican offices, including the Congregation for the Oriental Churches as its prefect.

He took over as the prefect of Congregation for the Oriental Churches in 1985, from Cardinal Wladyslaw Rubin. He resigned from the post in 1991 and Cardinal Achille Silvestrini succeeded him.

Cardinal Lourdusamy has accompanied Saint John Paul II on his travels to Africa, Asia, Oceania, and The Americas. He had visited 110 countries in the service of Popes John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul I, and John Paul II. He was fluent in languages such as English, Italian, French, German, Tamil, Latin, Kannada, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish.

Cardinal Lourdusamy was born on February 5, 1924, at Kottuchery, Karaikal, Pondicherry, and ordained a priest in 1951. He studied in Loyola College Chennai, St Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore and Pontifical Urbaniana University. He became a bishop in 1962 and a cardinal 23 years later.

When St Pope John XXIII appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore in 1962 he chose “To build the house of God” as his motto. Two years later, he was promoted as the Coadjutor Archbishop of Bangalore. In 1968, he succeeded Thomas Pothacamury as the archbishop of Bangalore, a post he held for three years.

As the Bangalore archbishop, he also served as the chairman of the National Liturgical Commission of India and founded the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre in Bangalore with his younger brother Fr S Amalorpavadoss as the director.

Blessed Pope Paul VI appointed him the joint secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples in 1971. He resigned as the Bangalore archbishop the same year and left India to serve in the Vatican Curia. He has remained in Rome since then.

He was the secretary of Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith in Rome from 1973 to 1985, the year he was appointed cardinal-deacon of S. Maria delle Grazie alle Fornaci fuori Porta Cavalleggeri.

He was appointed the Proto-deacon of College of Cardinals for three years from 1993 because he was the seniormost cardinal. He was president of the Pontifical Missionary Work and vice-grand chancellor of his alma mater Pontifical Urbanian University.

He served as a special papal legate to the funeral of Mother Teresa in Kolkata (then Calcutta) on September 13, 1997.

Prior to the International Eucharistic Congress in Bogota in 1968, he was invited as panel member of the International Catechetical study week in Medellin, Colombia.

He attended the Second Vatican Council as a council father. He also attended the First Ordinary Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in the Vatican in 1967. He was appointed to represent the Indian Bishops at the Pan Asiatic Catechetic-Liturgical Conference, Manila, 1967, and was elected the vice-president of the conference and president of the Liturgical Section there.

He had attended the Second Extraordinary Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in Vatican in 1985. He was special papal envoy to the closing ceremonies of the Year of St. Willibrord, Luxemburg, in 1990.

He was honored by the Philippines, Taiwan, France, Germany, Liberia and Luxembourg. He was also awarded a Doctor of Laws by Adamson University, Manila, Philippines and a Doctor of Letters by Central University, Pondicherry, India.

Cardinal Lourdusamy's funeral will be held on 5 June at 11.30 a.m. at the altar of the Vatican Basilica, and will be presided by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals. At the end of the Eucharist, Pope Francis will administer the rites of “Ultima Commendatio” and “Valedictio”.

Courtesy: mattersindia.com

Pope Francis on Tuesday appointed Divine Word Father Telesphore Bilung, aged 53, as the auxiliary bishop of Ranchi archdiocese.

Fr. Bilung, currently the Divine Word Society’s Odisha provincial, was born at Sargidipa, a mission station under Gaibira parish of the Rourkela diocese as the second of eight children. His parents are no more. He joined the Divine Word Society seminary in 1979 and took the first vows seven years later. He was ordained a priest in 1992, a year after he became a full-fledged member of the congregation with final vows.

A graduate in English literature, the bishop-elect had undergone formation training at the Institute of St Anselam, Kent, near London.

He was appointed the provincial in 2011 for a term of three years. He was reelected for another term early this year.

The archdiocese is now headed by Cardinal Telesphore Placidus Toppo, who would turn 75 on October 15 this year, the canonical year for retirement.

The archdiocese now has some 130,000 Catholics in a population of 2.8 million. It has 32 parishes and 3 centers that are served by more than 60 diocesan and 185 Religious priests, 90 Brothers and some 1,000 nuns.

Half a million people attended the ceremony held this morning in St. Peter's Square for the canonization of the “two Pope saints”: John XXIII and John Paul II. Since it was opened to the public at 5 a.m., the square and its environs were filled with faithful from all over the world; Polish pilgrims, however, constituted one of the largest groups. The event was also attended by delegations from over a hundred countries, more than twenty Heads of State and many figures from the world of politics and culture, including the King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain, King Albert II and Queen Paola of Belgium, Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg, the ex-president of the Republic of Poland Lech Walesa, the president of the Argentine parliament Julian Dominguez and the presidents of the European Union, Herman Van Rompuy, and the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso. The celebration was also attended by Floribeth Mora Diaz and Sister Adele Labianca, the carer of Caterina Capitani – the two women who experienced the miracles attributed to John Paul II.

 “We declare and define Blessed John XXIII and John Paul II to be saints and we enroll them among the saints, decreeing that they are to be venerated as such by the whole Church,” Francis said in his formal proclamation in Latin about 30 minutes into the solemn service.

The Holy Father concluded. “May these two new saints and shepherds of God’s people intercede for the Church, so that during this two-year journey toward the Synod she may be open to the Holy Spirit in pastoral service to the family. May both of them teach us not to be scandalised by the wounds of Christ and to enter ever more deeply into the mystery of divine mercy, which always hopes and always forgives, because it always loves”.

Pope John Paul II was born Karol Józef Wojtyla on May 18, 1920, in Wadowice, Poland. He was ordained in 1946, became the bishop of Ombi in 1958, and became the archbishop of Krakow in 1964. He was made a cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1967, and in 1978 became the first non-Italian pope in more than 400 years. He was a vocal advocate for human rights and used his influence to effect political change. He died in Italy on 2 April 2005. He was the second longest-serving pope in modern history and, as a Pole, the first non-Italian since Pope Adrian VI, who died in 1523.

John Paul II's cause for canonization commenced in 2005 shortly after his death with the traditional five-year waiting period waived. On 19 December 2009, John Paul II was proclaimed Venerable by his successor Pope Benedict XVI and was beatified on 1 May 2011 after the Congregation for the Causes of Saints attributed one miracle to him, the healing of a French nun from Parkinson's disease. A second miracle, attributed to the late pope, was approved on 2 July 2013 and confirmed by Pope Francis two days later.

Pope Saint John XXIII, born Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli (25 November 1881 – 3 June 1963), was Pope from 28 October 1958 to his death in 1963. Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli was the fourth of fourteen children born to a family of sharecroppers that lived in a village in Lombardy. He was ordained a priest on 10 August 1904 and served in a number of posts, including papal nuncio in France and a delegate to Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey. In a consistory on 12 January 1953 Pope Pius XII made Roncalli a cardinal, Cardinal-Priest of Santa Prisca, in addition to naming him the Patriarch of Venice. Pope John XXIII surprised those who expected him to be a caretaker pope by calling the historic Second Vatican Council (1962–65), the first session opening on 11 October 1962. He did not live to see it to completion. John died of stomach cancer on 3 June 1963, four and a half years after his election and two months after the completion of his final and famed encyclical, Pacem in Terris.

He was known affectionately as "Good Pope John". On 3 September 2000, John was declared "Blessed" alongside Pope Pius IX by Pope John Paul II, the penultimate step on the road to sainthood after a miracle of curing an ill woman was discovered. He was the first pope since Pope Pius X to receive this honour. Following his beatification, his body was moved from its original burial place in the grottoes below St Peter's Basilica to the altar of St. Jerome and displayed for the veneration of the faithful.

Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas celebrated his sacerdotal silver jubilee on 25th April, 2014. The day was marked with a solemn Eucharistic Service celebrated by Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the bishop of Allahabad  in St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad. About sixty priests, 250 nuns, seminarians and sizeable faithful from all over the diocese were present to pray for the jubilarian. Twenty six members from his family too were present to partake in his jubilation.

Fr. Mascarenhas who completed 25 years as a priest on the 4th of April this year, was born on September 29, 1959. Born in the devout family of Mr. Simon Mascarenhas and Mrs. Bridget Mascarenhas, Fr. Mascarenhas joined the diocese of Allahabad in 1978 after completing his High School Studies. He underwent the formation in St. Paul’s Seminary, Lucknow and in St. Joseph’s Seminary, Allahabad. He was the first Allahabad Diocesan priest to be ordained by the then bishop, Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad in 1989.

Fr. Mascarenhas rendered his selfless services in different capacities in the past 25 years. He has shown his hardworking nature and commitment as an assistant pastor in St. Joseph the Worker’s Church, Chakeri, Kanpur (1989-92), as a priest in charge of St. Joseph’s Church, Jaffarganj (1992-1997) and as the Director of DDWS (1997-2005) with an additional responsibility as the administrator of Bishop’s House from 1997 to 2000. Presently, he is the principal of St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad since 2005.

A man with mind and heart, Fr. Mascarenhas has been the member of the Diocesan College of Consulters since 2006 and the member of the Diocesan Finance Committee for the last 11 years. He is also the Diocesan PRO since 2011.

During the felicitation ceremony, after the floral wishing, Bishop Raphy in his homily praised the human, pastoral and administrative qualities of Fr. Louis. Fr. Louis thanked God, his family members, Bp Mudartha and Bp Isidore, priests, sisters and laity for their contribution in his priestly life. He vowed to continue to serve the church and the humanity with utmost zeal.

Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad announced the names of the newly formulated Finance and Construction Committee. They are as following:

Finance Committee:

Fr. Damien Gomes, Fr. K.K. Antony, Fr. Isidore D'Souza, Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, Fr. Joseph Mascarenhas (Procurator - Ex-officio).

Construction Committee:

Fr. Apolin Lobo, Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, Fr. Rolfie D'Souza, Fr. John Louis D'Souza, Fr. Fredrick D'Souza

LIST OF TRANSFERS AND APPOINTMENTS, APRIL 2014

Sl. No.	Name	From	To	Office
01	Rev. Fr. Jerome D’Souza	St. Thomas’ Church, Kidwainagar	St. Joseph the Worker’s Church, Chakeri	Socius
02	Rev. Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz	St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad	St. Antony’s Church, Sujatganj,  (Chandari)	Parish Priest
03	Rev. Fr. Thomas Serrao	Our Lady of Graces, Duddhi	St. Joseph’s Mission, Jafferganj & Malipur	Parish Priest
04	Rev. Fr. Charles D’Almeida	St. Paul’s Church, Sultanpur	St. Xavier’s Church, Robertsganj	Parish Priest and Dean
05	Rev. Fr. Alex D’Souza	St. Francis Xavier’s Church, Ashoknagar, Kanpur	St. Patrick’s Church, Allahabad	Parish Priest
06	Rev. Fr. John Lobo	St. Joseph the Worker’s Church, Chakeri	St. Paul’s Church, Sultanpur	Parish Priest
07	Rev. Fr. Kevin Pradhan	Our Lady of Graces Mission, Duddhi	St. Joseph’s Senior Citizens Home, Allahabad	Chaplain
08	Rev. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas	St. Xavier’s Church, Robertsganj	St. Joseph the Worker’s Church, Chakeri	Parish Priest
09	Rev. Fr. Victor Rodrigues	St. Joseph’s Church, Shaktingagr	St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad	Priest in Residence
10	Rev. Fr. Vincent Cornelio	Krist Jyothi Ashram, Asnabandh	Sacred Heart Church, Obra	Parish Priest
11	Rev. Fr. Damien Gomes	St. Patrick’s Church, Allahabad	St. Mary’s Church/School, Faizabad	Parish Priest, Manager and Dean
12	Rev. Fr. Ambrose D’Souza	St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad	St. Mary’s Church, Muirabad	Parish Priest
13	Rev. Fr. Leo Sequeira	Krist Jyothi Mission, Mudila	Sadhana Sadan, Allahabad	Director
14	Rev. Fr. Frederick D’Souza	Holy Rosary Church, Pratapgarh	St. Thomas Church/School (Hindi Medium), Chunar	Pari 31 st Mar,2014Newly Built St. Joseph's School Inaugurated in Pratapgarh Show The contribution of the Diocese of Allahabad in the nation building was seen yet again in Pratapgarh when they ventured into an English-medium institution, St. Joseph’s School, in the campus of Holy Rosary Church. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of Allahabad and Chairman of the Education Society inaugurated the School by cutting the ribbon in presence of Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, the Vicar General and the Guest of Honour, Mr. Haripratap singh, the Mayor of Pratapgarh, Rev. Fr. Fredrick D’Souza the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash the Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Sr. Maxie Monteiro the superior of St. Francis Convent, Pratapgarh and eminent guest priests and nuns, parents and students, the parishioners of Holy Rosary Church and the citizens of Pratpargh at 6 pm on 30th March, 2014. Speaking on the occasion Bishop Raphy, the chief guest, praised the hardwork of Fr. Fredrick D’Souza, who not only dreamt but also realized the dream by constructing this school in a short period of time. He said that this premiere institute would excel not only in imparting education but in forming the young minds with social and moral values. Mr. Haripratap Singh, the Mayor, too applauded the venture of the Missionaries in the educational arena which will give the best education to the children of Pratapgarh. He said that there is no doubt that this institute will mould the children in ‘Bharatiya Sanskriti’ Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, the newly appointed Vicar General of the Diocese and the Principal of St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad said that this School being a branch of St. Joseph’s College in Allahabad give the best formation to the children by teaching them ‘sanskaar’. The children who would come out of the portals of this institution will excel in discipline, education and moral values. Finally, Fr. Frederick D’Souza, the dreamer and builder, thanked all who contributed with their mite to construct the mighty building. He said that this school is a gift for the city of Pratapgarh from the Diocese of Allahabad. Earlier, the program began with a prayer dance by Ms. Sunidhi and Ms. Priya. Fr. Prem Prakash welcomed the gathering after which the ribbon cutting, coconut-breaking, lighting of the lamp and blessing of the building and the new busses were done. The Brothers from St. Xavier’s Minor Seminary presented an English item with the title – “We have a vision for tomorrow.” Dance from the kids of Holy Rosary Church and the Nurses from Canossa Hospital Pratapgarh, and a group song the Newly Appointed Staff were appreciated by all. The School will begin on the 1st of April 2014, with three sections in LKG, two sections each in UKG, 1 and 2. The classes are equipped with Smart Class facility. order levitra online 21 st Mar,2014Young Nun Wows Judges on Italy's 'The Voice' Show Sr. Cristina Scuccia is a 25 year old member of the Ursuline Sisters of the Holy Family who has appeared on "The Voice of Italy," a reality show akin to "American Idol" or "Britain’s Got Talent." Sr. Cristina surprised the four judges on The Voice of Italy March 19 with both her talent and her habit. The judges on the show begin with their backs turned to the performer, and turn around only if they like what they hear. As the judges turned to face Sr. Cristina, their astonishment was visible at seeing a young nun singing Alicia Keys’ “No One.” A native of Sicily, Sr. Cristina arrived at the show accompanied by four sisters from her community, as well as her parents. The four judges of the popular TV program are the Italian singers Raffaella Carra, J-Ax, Noemi, and Piero Pelu. After her performance, Carra asked Sr. Cristina if she is really a nun, and why she chose to compete on the show. “Yes, I am truly, truly a sister,” she replied. “I came here because I have a gift and I want to share that gift. I am here to evangelize.” According to the show’s format, when a participant receives the approval of the judges, they then choose which judge’s team to join. Sr. Cristina chose J-Ax “because I told myself that if they turned around, I would choose the first one.” J-Ax, who was visibly moved when he saw Sr. Cristina, said he was thrilled to have been chosen by the most popular participant on the show. Sr. Cristina is trending on Twitter with “#suorcristina.” Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture, used the hashtag in a tweet Thursday, commending her for sharing her talent with the Italian people: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others (1 Peter 4:10)”. Link: http://faithtap.com/1144/italys-voice-sister-cristina-audition/  Source: CNS order levitra online 17 th Mar,2014Fr. Louis Appointed Vicar General for the Diocese of Allahabad Show Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas is appointed the new Vicar General for the Diocese of Allahabad. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the bishop of Allahabad declared this news during the Consulter’s Meeting at 6 pm on 16th March, 2014. The post of the Vicar General was lying vacant since 31st of January 2013 when the former bishop, Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes resigned from his post. It may be noted that the post of Vicar General in the Catholic Dioceses ceases to exist when the See of the Bishop turns vacant due to death, resignation or dismissal. Fr. Mascarenhas who completes 25 years as a priest on the 4th of April this year, was born on September 29, 1959. Born to the devout family of Mr. Simon Mascarenhas and Mrs. Bridget Mascarenhas, Fr. Mascarenhas joined the diocese of Allahabad in 1978 after completing his High School Studies. He underwent the formation in St. Paul’s Seminary, Lucknow and in St. Joseph’s Seminary, Allahabad. He was the first Allahabad Diocesan priest to be ordained by the then bishop, Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad in 1989. Fr. Mascarenhas rendered his selfless services in different capacities in the past 25 years. He has shown his hardworking nature and commitment as an assistant pastor in St. Joseph the Worker’s Church, Chakeri, Kanpur (1989-92), as a priest in charge of St. Joseph’s Church, Jaffarganj (1992-1997) and as the Director of DDWS (1997-2005) with an additional responsibility as the administrator of Bishop’s House from 1997 to 2000. Presently, he is the principal of St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad since 2005. A man with mind and heart, Fr. Mascarenhas has been the member of the Diocesan College of Consulters since 2006 and the member of the Diocesan Finance Committee for the last 11 years. He is also the Diocesan PRO since 2011. It may be noted that the appointment of the Vicar General in any diocese is the prerogative of the Bishop. He may choose any priest of his choice to this post. However, Bishop Raphy Manjaly had requested for a consultative voting from the priests’ body on 4th March 2014.  order levitra online 14 th Mar,2014Sr. Jeane, Yet Another Loss for UMI Show Yet another loss to the UMI Lucknow Province. Reverend Sister Jeane Marie, aged 62, a member of the Congregation of the Ursulines of Mary Immaculate, Lucknow Province, went to her eternal reward at 5.30 pm on 14th March, 2014, in Mariampur Convent, Kanpur.   Sr. Jeane Marie was born on 26th June 1952 as the eldest of the 7 children born to late Mr.  K. J. Thomas and Mrs. Rosamma Kottarathil at Kalloorkad, Ayavana - Sacred Heart Church in Kothamangalam Diocese, Kerala.  She was christened as Mary, fondly called Mercy by her loving family members and she received the name Jeane Marie in religious life. Born to a traditional, God-fearing Christian family, Sr. Jeane has 2 brothers and 4 sisters of which Sr. Josy UMI, belongs to Nirmala Province, Delhi. Sr. Josy has been with Sr. Jeane from the time when her health conditions began to  deteriorate.  Sr. Jeane Marie completed her schooling and joined the Ursuline Congregation at Kannur on 21st January 1970 and after the initial formation she made her first Profession on 2nd February 1973 and in the following years completed her Intermediate and rendered her services at  Renukoot School Office and was teaching too. She went for her Tertianship programme in 1977-78 at Bangalore and made her final commitment on 3rd May 1978.  Sr. Jeane Marie availed her dedicated services in the Congregation and in the different communities of the Province. She has worked in almost all the UMI Communities in the diocese of Allahabad.  She has served in Nirmala Convent, Renukoot, St. Patrick’s Convent, Kanpur, St. Joseph’s Convent, Robertsganj, Sacred Heart Convent, Obra, St. Joseph’s Convent, Chakeri, Kanpur and Mariampur  Convent, Kanpur.  She functioned as office staff in the school, Provincial’s Secretary, teacher, animator and principal of schools.    At the time she breathed her last, Sr. Jeane was in Mariampur Hospital being treated for Cancer. She was very patient and never a complaint came out from her mouth inspite of the acute suffering she underwent. The Diocese of Allahabad places on record the selfless service she rendered in the various parts of the diocese of Allahabad, especially her services in St. Xavier’s School, Robertsganj from 1989-1995. The Funeral Rites of the deceased will be conducted in St. Joseph's Church, Chakeri at 3.30 pm on Saturday, 15th March, 2014. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad, Rev. Sr. Elveera UMI the Superior General, Rev. Sr. Rupa UMI the Provincial Superior, Rev. Sr. Ritty UMI the Provincial Superior of UMI Delhi Province will be present to bid her adieu. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord. May her soul REST IN PEACE. order levitra online 12 th Mar,2014Fr. Francis D'Britto to Receive National Literary Award Show Father Francis D’Britto, aged 71, a Catholic priest from the diocese of Vasai received the National Literary Award for Marathi for “Subodh Bible – Nava Karar.” His Bible translation from English to Marathi was among 23 books India’s top literary committee selected for its prestigious annual awards. This is the first time a Bible translation gets a national award in India in modern times. The executive board of the Sahitya Akademi met at Ravbindra Bhavan New Delhi under the chairmanship of President Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari on Monday and approved 23 books for the Sahitya translation prize 2013. The prize will be presented at a special function to be held sometime in August 2014, said an Akademi press release. The prize carries an amount of 50,000 rupees and a copper plaque. Fr D’Britto, an environmentalist, journalist and author, edits “Suvartha” (good news), a Church monthly magazine in Marathi language. He also writes for local daily newspapers and magazines on God´s love, religious harmony and tolerance, social justice, forgiveness and brotherhood. He writes not only about Jesus Christ but also about Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Jainism and Zoroastrianism, which attracts people of various religions to him. People cutting across religions invite the priests to their seminars on secularism and social issues. The priest began writing profusely after he launched the Harit (green) Vasai Movement in 1989 to save the environment. He made headlines when he braved threats from unscrupulous developers who used force and intimidation to grab land in the Vasai region. - Mattersindia order levitra online 10 th Mar,2014DDWS Celebrates Women's Day Show To mark the importance of the women’s day and celebrate the achievements of our own women who have persevered through much adversity to set their feet on the path to success, DDWS celebrated International women’s Day with great enthusiasm on 8th and 9th March 2014 at St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad. On this occasion women from various districts of Uttar Pradesh participated in the programme. Chief Guest of the program was Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad and other guests like Rev. Fr. K. K. Anthony, Director, Nazereth Hospital, Rev. Fr. Loius, Principal, St. Joseph’s College, Shri Lallan Rai, Political leader, U.P., Mrs. Subhasrathi, Advocate High Court, Mrs. Hemlata, Prof. Allahabad University, Mrs. Manju Pathak, Social Activist, Pratima Singh, S.O. Mahila Thana, Civil lines, Mr. Rajendra Dukain ji, Record holder in Limca Book of World Record and other were also present in the programme. The program began with a welcome song presented by the women from Kanpur Double Pulia in honor of Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad. Speaking on the inaugural session Fr. K.K. Antony (Director, Nazareth Hospital Allahabad) described about the importance of International Women’s day and the role of women in building up the society. On this special occasion Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas also encouraged women to demand for their rights from the society and stop women exploitation. To portray the situation of women in India a drama was presented by Mariampur Hospital, Kanpur. Further Hemlata Srivastava also welcomed all the participants and spoke few lines on women’s right and the importance of Women’s Day Further Lallan Rai, Agriculture Minister, UP spoke about the schemes related to women. Thereafter Mrs. ubhasrathi, Adv. HC, also motivated the participants to be independent and demand for their rights. She also appreciated the work of all the organizations working for a women’s right through legal awareness. Mrs. Pratima Singh also encouraged all the women participants to fight for their rights. She explained how by her own experience in her family she is able break certain traditions that are gender biased and how she is able to convince people and society about it. Finally, the program was blessed by Bishop Swamiji. Various presentations and drama, songs were performed by different social work centers. Certificates and awards were also distributed to the participants for their performances. Overall the program was fruitful in acknowledging women’s right by the participants. order levitra online 6 th Mar,2014Pope urges priests to have hearts of mercy and compassion Show Good priests must be close to their people, sharing their suffering and healing their wounds. That was Pope Francis’ message to priests from the Rome diocese who met with their bishop in the Paul VI audience hall on Thursday morning. The Pope focused his words on the theme of God’s infinite mercy, saying a priest can only share this gift with others if he feels it in his own heart first.   Pope Francis began his reflection by commenting on the reading from St Matthew’s Gospel where Jesus is moved with compassion as he sees people ‘distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd’. In the same way, he said, priests here in Rome and around the world see so many people suffering in difficult situations and their hearts too must be filled with compassion. Describing this period in the life of the Church as a time of God’s mercy, Pope Francis said priests must be men of mercy, experiencing that ‘gut reaction’ of compassion as they welcome, listen, advise and absolve those seeking healing and forgiveness. They can only do this effectively, he went on, if they allow themselves to be wrapped in God’s embrace through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Reiterating the image of the Church as a field hospital, the Pope said mercy means first and foremost being close to people and healing their wounds. Priests who are detached from reality, he stressed, do not help the Church and he asked his listeners how well they know the wounds of their own parishioners. Mercy, the Pope continued, means not being either too lenient or too strict with people who come to Confession. Rather it means being like the Good Samaritan who takes care of the individual, listening, respecting and accompanying people on their journey of healing and Reconciliation. Finally Pope Francis asked the priests of his diocese if they still cry with their people? If they pray and struggle with God on behalf of their people? If they turn to God or to the TV at the end of their day? If they are able to embrace the elderly, the sick, the children, with hearts that are open and moved to compassion? Only those who are not ashamed to touch the wounded flesh of those on the margins of society, he said, will one day be admitted to God’s kingdom to gaze on the glorified flesh of Christ. Source: Vatican Radio order levitra online 24 th Feb,2014National Seminar on "Envisioning Media-2025" Organised in Delhi Show About 175 communication delegates from across the country participated in a two-day seminar on “Envisioning Media 2025” organised at Don Bosco Centre, Okhla, New Delhi, on 21-22 February 2014. The event was jointly organised by the Society of St. Paul (SSP) and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India- Office for Social Communications (CBCI-OSC) to mark the first centenary of the founding of St Paul's Society by Blessed James Alberione and the commemoration of the golden jubilee of ‘Inter Mirifica’, the Vatican II document on social communication. Rev. Fr. Isidore D'Souza, the director for Social Communication in Allahabad, Rev. Frs. Dominic, Pankaj and Thomas from St. Paul's Society Allahabad to participated in this mega event.   Archbishop Anil Couto, of Delhi inaugurating the seminar said media has become part and parcel of our everyday life and existence. He lauded the services rendered by the St Paul Society in disseminating good literature. Fr. Michael Raj SSP, Provincial Superior, welcomed the gathering.   In his keynote address Mons. Paul Tighe, the Secretary, Pontifical Council for Social Communications,  Rome,  said “What we need today is not lot of technologies and technicians rather people who can create  ideas and show how to put them across and make it more relevant to the people’. He spoke on ‘Inter Mirfica ‘a call to the changes of the signs of the times. Social communication, he said, has tremendous impacts on our apostolate.    Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Mickler SSP, New York, USA, shared the charism of Pauline Family. He said Blessed James Alberione, the founder of the Society of St. Paul (SSP) enthusiastically spread the love of God through press releases during World War II  Fr. George Plathottam sdb, Secretary, CBCI-OSC, dealt with the theme, ‘Social Communication and the Mission of the Church in India. He said communication is at the heart of the mission of the Church. Every means of communication must be properly engaged in the evangelization of the world. Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal SVD, Chairman of CBCI-OSC moderated the session.   During a session moderated by Fr. Raymond Ambroise, Secretary, Federation of Asian of Bishops’ Conference (FABC), Dr. John Dayal, veteran journalist, Esther Kar, Secretary, National Commission for Minorities, and Anna MM, Vetticad, journalist, shared their views on the church and mainstream media: challenges and possibilities. Supreme Court Judge, Kurien Joseph called for the need to positioning media.   Apostolic Nuncio to India Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio presided over a Eucharist celebration to mark the centenary of the founding of St Paul’s Society, and the golden jubilee of the congregation’s foundation in New Delhi. Several bishops and priests concelebrated in the Eucharist which was attended by participants of the seminar and delegates from various communities.   Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil, speaking on the role of communication for community building and challenges for evangelization, called the participants for reconciliation, peace and non-confrontational attitude in our communication strategy. Fr Dominic Emmanuel, SVD spoke on the need to step up the public relation efforts of the church. Fr. Joe Eruppakatt ssp highlighted the relevance of media in faith formation. He cited the examples of Mother Angelica, Benny Punnethara and others.  The afternoon sessions on the second day were conducted at Teen Murti Bhavan, New Delhi, on the theme ‘India 2025 - Democracy & Media’.  Mr. Naveen Chawla, Former Election Commissioner of India, chaired the sessions. He spoke of the challenges India’s democracy faces. “Clean and fair elections alone do not ensure a healthy democracy, but the conduct of public servants must be guided by values and principles,” he said.   Archbishop Albert D’Souza, Secretary General CBCI, called for a healthy media which can foster a healthy human relationship to make a global village. Professor T.K. Oommen, Educationist & Sociologist, Anna MM Vetticad, and Mr. Josy Joseph of Times of India, were the main speakers.  Prof. T. K. Oommen said that Media is highly commercialized in favour of the upper class. There is need for major shift in the profile of media practitioners if certain issues need to get adequate and balanced coverage in media. Anna MM Vetticad pointed out the need of social media to influence the mainstream media. Mr. Josy Joseph called for values like compassion, honesty and social commitment in media. “Church which is a major player in imparting education must do all in its power to instill these values in the young,” he said. order levitra online 23 rd Feb,2014Pope Addresses the New Cardinals Show Vatican City: On February 22, 2014, in the Vatican Basilica, Pope Francis celebrated an Ordinary Public Consistory during which he created nineteen new cardinals, to whom he imposed the biretta, consigned the ring and assigned the title or diaconate church. The celebration was also attended by Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, whom Pope Francis embraced upon entering the basilica and who was also greeted by secretary of State Pietro Parolin in his address. Parolin was the first among the new cardinals and addressed some words of thanks to the Holy Father in the name of all the new cardinals. Bishop Loris Francesco Capovilla was not present, and the biretta will be consigned over the next few days to his residence in Sotto il Monte, in the Italian province of Bergamo. Today's ordinary public consistory was the first of Pope Francis' pontificate; he began his allocution with the phrase from the Gospel of St. Mark, read on this occasion: “And Jesus went before them”. “At this moment too, Jesus is walking ahead of us”, he said. “He is always before us. He goes ahead of us and leads the way. This is the source of our confidence and our joy: to be his disciples, to remain with him, to walk behind him, to follow him. When we joined with the cardinals to concelebrate the first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, the first word which the Lord proposed to us was to 'walk', to journey with him: to journey, and then to build and to profess. Today this same word is repeated, but now as an action, an action of Jesus which is ongoing: 'Jesus was walking…'. This is something striking about the Gospels: Jesus is often walking and he teaches his disciples along the way. This is important. Jesus did not come to teach a philosophy, an ideology, but rather a 'way', a journey to be undertaken with him, and we learn the way as we go, by walking. Yes, dear brothers, this is our joy: to walk with Jesus. But this is not easy, or comfortable, because the way that Jesus chooses is the way of the Cross. As they journey together, he speaks to his disciples about what will happen in Jerusalem: he foretells his passion, death and resurrection. And they are 'shocked' and 'full of fear'. They were shocked, certainly, because for them going up to Jerusalem meant sharing in the triumph of the Messiah, in his victory – we see this in the request made by James and John. But they were also full of fear for what was about to happen to Jesus, and for what they themselves might have to endure. “Unlike the disciples in those days, we know that Jesus has won, and that we need not fear the Cross; indeed, the Cross is our hope”, continued the Pope. “And yet, we are all too human, sinners, tempted to think as men do, not as God does. And once we follow the thinking of the world, what happens? The Gospel says that 'When the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John'. They were indignant. Whenever a worldly mentality predominates, the result is rivalry, jealousy, factions. And so the word which Jesus speaks to us today is most salutary. It purifies us inwardly, it enlightens our consciences and helps us to unite ourselves fully with Jesus, and to do so together, at this time when the College of Cardinals is enlarged by the entry of new members. “And Jesus called them to himself”, Pope Francis observed. “Here is the other action of Jesus. Along the way, he is aware that he needs to speak to the Twelve; he stops and calls them to himself. Brothers, let us allow Jesus to call us to himself! Let us be 'con-voked' by him. And let us listen to him, with the joy that comes from receiving his word together, from letting ourselves be taught by that word and by the Holy Spirit, and to become ever more of one heart and soul, gathered around him. And as we are thus 'con-voked', 'called to Him' by our one Teacher, I too will tell you what the Church needs: she needs you, your cooperation, and even more your communion, with me and among yourselves. The Church needs your courage, to proclaim the Gospel at all times, both in season and out of season, and to bear witness to the truth. The Church needs your prayer for the progress of Christ’s flock, the prayer which, together with the proclamation of the Word, let us not forget, is the primary task of the Bishop. The Church needs your compassion, especially at this time of pain and suffering for so many countries throughout the world. We express our spiritual closeness to the ecclesial communities and to all Christians suffering from discrimination and persecution. We must fight against every form of discrimination. The Church needs our prayer for them, that they may be firm in faith and capable of responding to evil with good. And this prayer of ours extends to every man and women suffering injustice on account of their religious convictions. “The Church needs us also to be peacemakers”, he concluded, “building peace by our words, our hopes and our prayers: let us therefore invoke peace and reconciliation for those peoples presently experiencing violence and war. Thank you, dear Brothers. Let us walk together behind the Lord, and let us always be called together by him, in the midst of his faithful people, God's holy faithful people, our holy Mother the Church”. Diocesan Catechism Examination - Results of Class VIII - 2014 I   Merin Mathew   St.Thomas Church Kanpur/ St.Thomas School      96% II Arpana Joseph   St.Anthony’s Church Kanpur                                86% II Allwin Sunny       St.John Bosco Church, Naini/Bethany Convent      86% III Catherine D’silva St.Joseph Church Kanpur/ St.Joseph School       84% III Shiny Samson    St.John Bosco Church, Naini/Bethany Convent      84%   No NAME Parish SCHOOL MARKS 1 Merin Mathew St. Thomas Church kanpur St. Thomas School 96 2 Allwin Sunny St. John Bosco Church Naini Bethany convent 86 3 Arpana Joseph St. Anthony's church Kanpur   86 4 Catherine D'silva St. Joseph the Worker Kanpur St. Joseph school Kanpur 84 5 Shiny Samson St. John Bosco Church Naini Bethany convent 84 6 Jennifer Masih St. John Bosco Church Naini Bethany convent 82 7 Ashish Kumar St. John Bosco Church Naini Bethany convent 81 8 Mariya Joseph St. Joseph the Worker Kanpur St. Joseph school Kanpur 80 9 Clement Varghese St. Joseph the Worker Kanpur St. Joseph school Kanpur 76 10 Jephy Thomas   Mariampur School 76 11 Jacob Roby St. Joseph the Worker Kanpur St. Joseph school Kanpur 74 12 Alen Benny St. Joseph the Worker Kanpur St. Joseph school Kanpur 72 19 th Feb,2014St. Joseph School Shaktinagar Receives NTPC Best School Award Show St. Joseph's School, Shaktinagar has won the prestigious NTPC National Best School Award for the year 2012-13. Congratulating Rev. Fr. Thomas Kumar the principal and the staff, Mr. P.K. Chaturvedi the Additional General Manager wrote: "The School has consistently demonstrated excellence in a wide range of academic and co-curricular parameters which have been complimented with the school winning the Best School of Northern Region Award for the past five consecutive years. The performance of the school has also been acknowledged and lauded on numerous occasions including Vidya Survey and NTPC Excellence Award Audit. However, winning the Best School of NTPC Award is the foremost feather in the cap of your illustrious institution and a dream come true for all of us." St. Joseph School, an NTPC School, run by the Diocese of Allahabad was established in the year 1978. The premiere institute has engaged in the supreme service of illuminating the young minds and nurturing them for becoming model citizens of the nation. The Sisters of the Daughters of Sacred Heart collaborate in the education ministry rendering their selfless services. The Bishop, priests, religious and laity congratulate Rev. Fr. Thomas Kumar for his able leadership and for bringing laurels to the school. Congratulations to dear Staff members too. order levitra online 13 th Feb,2014CBCI XXXI PLENARY ASSEMBLY – FINAL STATEMENT Show Renewed Church for a Renewed Society – Responding to the Call of Vatican II   1. We, the 187 member-bishops of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), came together at the Alphonsian Pastoral Institute, Palai in Kerala, the place sanctified by St. Alphonsa, from February 5 -12, 2014, for the 31st Plenary Assembly. In continuation of the 30th Plenary Assembly’s theme, Role of the Church for a Better India, the Bishops deliberated, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, on the theme:  “Renewed Church for a Renewed Society - Responding to the Call of Vatican II”.  On the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), the CBCI Plenary Assembly reflected on this theme in the light of the Second Vatican Council documents in order to draw inspiration for her future course of life and ministry. We took into account the reflections of the Catholic Council of India which studied the same theme at its December 2013 annual meeting in Varanasi.    2. We first recalled the Church’s self-understanding, enshrined in the Constitution on the Church, Lumen Gentium, as the pilgrim People of God, a community rooted in a deep experience of the Trinitarian God in Christ Jesus.  Ad Gentes, reminds us that the Church is a community with a mission to evangelize, to proclaim the good news of Jesus to all, a mission entrusted to her by Jesus and the Spirit. The Church exercises her mission in a world marked by a tremendous imbalance:  a few very rich and the vast majority poor struggling to eke out a living. The Document on the Church in the Modern World, Gaudium et Spes impels the members of the Church to an involvement in the struggles of suffering humanity based on the principles of respect for the human person, solidarity and effective social dialogue to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.  Finally, the Council document on the Laity, Apostolicam Actuositatem points out that the lay faithful, who form the vast majority in this People of God, have a specific role in society – that of penetrating and perfecting the temporal order in the spirit of the Gospel.    3. When we look at our country, we see corruption plaguing every sphere of society. In such a scenario, Church institutions must be an example of transparency and probity.  Another phenomenon is that of internal migration which, while opening opportunities to people, has torn the cultural and religious moorings that sustained them. Globalization too has brought in its wake problems like prolonged working hours which have disrupted family life. We witness the trend to fundamentalism which seeks to dilute the secular character of our nation. Against this trend, we stand by the values upheld by the Indian Constitution and appeal to governments to respect these values.        4. The Church in India has tried to live up to the vision of Vatican II. Several people have been led to a deep experience of God through reading the Word of God, through the traditional practices of piety and through the Charismatic Movement. In many places Small Christian Communities, rooted in the Word and Eucharist have been established.  “These communities are a sign of vitality within the Church, an instrument of formation and evangelization, and a solid starting point for a new society based on a 'civilization of love'" (Redemptoris Missio, 51). The Church has worked for the uplift of the downtrodden. She has been appreciated for the way she has responded immediately to natural calamities, for her unbiased outreach to the needy and vulnerable sections of society. Participatory structures have been established in several regions, dioceses and parishes. The 2010 CBCI Gender Policy has been hailed as a step in the right direction. Youth have experienced empowerment through training programs and services.    5.  However, there is still need for improvement. The reflections of the Plenary Assembly centred chiefly on seven areas:   5.i. Fostering God Experience: What is needed is a deep experience of the Trinitarian God drawing on the treasures of the Church especially the Word and Sacraments. For this, our liturgies have to be well prepared, participative and meaningful. Hence, we have decided to initiate a renewal in the celebration of the liturgy so that it becomes an effective means for Christ-centred God experience.  We bishops have to be ourselves Spirit-filled men of God, giving priority to prayer and to the Word of God, and helping our clergy and lay faithful to become aware of God’s presence and activity in their lives.  The God experience will lead to an inner conversion made visible in the simplicity of our lives, in our attitude of love, compassion and forgiveness.  Following the example of Pope Francis, we will live a genuinely simple, humble, welcoming and outgoing life reaching out to all people.  We will so orient the formation of future priests and religious that they enter the ministry with an attitude of humility, ready to serve the poor and marginalized of society.   5.ii. Addressing justice issues: The experience of God will lead us to involvement in and solidarity with the marginalized and the exploited, those suffering from disabilities, those living in the peripheries of economic, cultural and social spheres. We will speak out against all forms of injustice meted out to them and we will defend their rights. We listened to the call of Pope Francis urging us to “work to eliminate the structural causes of poverty and to promote the integral development of the poor.” (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 188). We want the Church to be truly a Church of the Poor.  We reaffirm our solidarity with the Dalits in India who continue to be oppressed. The CBCI reiterates its resolve to struggle for equal rights of Dalit Christians on par with their counterparts in other religions. We will con 12 th Feb,2014Cardinal Cleemis elected President of CBCI Show Palai: Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, head of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, was Tuesday elected president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI). Cardinal Cleemis replaces Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, as the head of India’s 18 million Catholics who belong to ritual Churches of Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara. The CBCI, council of prelates from all the three rites, is the third largest episcopal conference in the world. Syro-Malabar Archbishop Andrews Thazhath of Trichur was elected the first vice president of the conference while Latin Archbishop Philip Neri of Goa and Daman was elected the second vice president. The new CBCI office bearers were elected on the sixth day of the ongoing plenary assembly at Palai, Kerala. The weeklong conference that began on February 5 addressed mainly how a renewed Church could help renew society. Archbishop Albert D’Souza of Agra Latin Archbishop was reelected the secretary general. The 54-year-old new CBCI president is one of the youngest cardinals of the Catholic Church. He is also one of the youngest prelates to head the Indian Church. Pope Benedict XVI made him a cardinal only two years ago. He is the first cardinal from the Syro-Malankara Church, the youngest of the Catholic Church’s 23 rites. He is also a member of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches and of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue. A month ago, the Indian government appointed him member of the National Integration Council, a group of senior politicians and public figures that looks for ways to address the problems of communalism, casteism and regionalism in the country. It originated in a conference convened by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961. The purpose was to find ways to counter problems that were dividing the country including attachment to specific communities, castes, regions and languages. Cleemis was born on June 15, 1959 as Isaac Thottumkal at a village in Pathanamthitta district as the son of Mathew and Annamma Thottumkal. He attended minor seminary at Tiruvalla and received a B. Phil degree from St. Joseph’s Pontifical at Aluva. He later studied at the Papal Seminary and was ordained a priest on June 11, 1986, five months after Pope John Paul II visited India for the first time. He took Masters in Theology from Dharmaram College, Bangalore and obtained doctorate from Ecumenical Theology from Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), Rome in 1997. The Vatican appointed Cleemis Tiruvalla bishop in 2003 and was elevated as Metropolitan Archbishop in 2006. He rose to become the Second Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church through the Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in 2007. Cleemis participated as a Cardinal-elector in the conclave that elected Pope Francis.   Source: Mattersindia.com order levitra online 12 th Feb,2014Pope Francis: Eucharist as source of encounter, forgiveness, nourishment Show (Vatican Radio) At his Wednesday general audience in a sunny St Peter’s Square, Pope Francis spoke of the Eucharist as our source of encounter, forgiveness and spiritual nourishment. The Eucharist, he said, affects the way we see others and brings us together with young and old, poor and affluent, neighbours and visitors. Please find below the English language summary of the Holy Father’s words: Dear Brothers and Sisters: Continuing our catechesis on the Sacraments of Initiation, I wish to reflect on how we live the Eucharist in our daily lives, as a Church and individual Christians. First, the Eucharist affects the way we see others. In his life, Christ manifested his love by being with people, and by sharing their desires and problems. So too the Eucharist brings us together with others – young and old, poor and affluent, neighbours and visitors. The Eucharist calls us to see all of them as our brothers and sisters, and to see in them the face of Christ. Second, in the Eucharist we experience the forgiveness of God and the call to forgive. We celebrate the Eucharist not because we are worthy, but because we recognize our need for God’s mercy, incarnate in Jesus Christ. In the Eucharist, we renew the gift of the Body and Blood of Christ for the remission of sins, and our hearts are enlarged to receive and show mercy. Third, in the Eucharistic celebration, we are nourished as the Christian community by Christ’s Word and Life. It is from the Eucharist that the Church receives continually her identity and mission. It is in our celebration that Christ fills us with his grace, so that our lives may be consonant with our worship of God in the Liturgy. Let us live the Eucharist in a spirit of faith and prayer, with the certainty that the Lord will bring to fulfillment all that he has promised. I offer an affectionate greeting to all the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors present at today’s Audience, including those from England, Denmark, Hong Kong and the United States. May Jesus Christ confirm you in faith and make you witnesses of his love and mercy to all people. God bless you all! order levitra online 10 th Feb,2014Healing Ministry Week 2014: February 10-16 Show Introduction  We continue the tradition of celebrating the Healing Ministry week ecumenically. The Christian Medical Association of India (CMAI), National Council of Churches of India (NCCI) and the Catholic Healthcare Networks in India have selected this year’s Healing Week Theme: “Women – leaders in healing ministry!” These Bible studies enhance our understanding of the contribution and role of women in this noble ministry.   This booklet is meant for the Catholic Network.    How to Celebrate the Healing Ministry Week?   i. In Healthcare Institutions Arrangements could be made for everyone in the hospital to join the prayers, but with due discretion and full respect for those sick people of other faiths and those with no religious persuasion. Inform the patient’s relatives of the gathering. Printed materials, with inspirational texts and prayers could be distributed. One or more of the patients, if willing and able to do so, may remain alongside the celebrant during readings and prayer; and a few symbolic gestures may also be planned.  Organize awareness programs and meaningful celebrations for the staff engaged in healthcare.    ii. Community/Parish level In collaboration with committed volunteers, organize events such as: Paraliturgical Celebrations, Community celebration of the Blessings and Anointing of the Sick, ecumenical bible service, inter-religious prayer service for the sick, health awareness seminar, medical camps, cultural events, charitable events, etc    Your Response We will be interested to know how you celebrated the Health and Healing Week and the World Day of the Sick. Please write to us. We welcome your suggestions to continue to have meaningful programs in the future.    CBCI Office for Health Care                       CBCI Centre , 1, Ashok Place, Gole Dakkhana, New Delhi-110 001           Tel. 011-23340772 / 23340774, Email: info@cbcihealth.org    Catholic Health Association of India (CHAI)   Director General, The Catholic Health Association of India, 157/6, Staff Road, Gunrock Enclave, Secunderabad, A.P. , INDIA, Pin: 500009. Ph: +91-40-27848457, 27848293, directorgeneral@chai-india.org                  Acknowledgements  •For all those who contributed in writing these Bible Studies, especially,  to Rev A I David, UTC, Bangalore; Dr Sujatha Charles, St. Stephens Hospital; Dr Priya John,  CMAI; Ms Anuvinda Varkey, CCHI; Dr Leila Caleb, Rev  Dr George Varghese, Fr Thomas Ninan, CMAI;  Rev Sharth David, CMAI; Sr Helen Saldanha, CBCI.    •Members of Catholic Health Care network, especially CHAI, SDFI, CNGI, and CBCI-CARD    We gratefully acknowledge them for their valuable contributions.    Fr Dr Mathew Abraham C.Ss.R Secretary, Office for Health Care  Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India      In a surprise move, Pope Francis on Monday appointed a retired archbishop to look after a diocese in northeastern India.  The Pope brought Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil from retirement as the apostolic administrator of Jowai diocese in Meghalaya state. The Salesian prelate had retired as the Guwahati archbishop on January 18, 2012, after 20 years. He was earlier the bishop of Dibrugarh for 11 years. The 77-year-old peacenik prelate is taking up a new Episcopal assignment for a third time. The appointment was announced at 4:30 pm on Monday at Jowai diocesan headquarters. Jowai diocese that covers the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya was created on January 28, 2006, with Bishop Vincent Kympat as its first bishop, who died in August 2011. Archbishop Menamparampil had led the funeral services of Bishop Kympat. The diocese has 81,242 Catholics, 28 priests, 40 sisters and 19 religious brothers. Asked about his response to the new appointment, Archbishop Menamparampil said, “It came to me as a surprise.” He said he had raised his difficulties to ecclesiastical authorities adding the Latin dictum, “Non recuso laborem” (I will not shirk work). The appointment came just when Archbishop Menamparampil and his peace team were busy with a dialogue between the Karbis and the Rengma Nagas who came into conflict a few months ago. “Dozens of villages were burnt, some 3,000 people had fled to refugee camps, and all negotiations had failed. Though gradually the Karbis began returning to their homes, the Rengma Nagas were more different. They are smaller in number, some 6,000 in all, among other communities,” said the archbishop who engineered the peace initiative. It was then the Joint Peace Mission Team of Archbishop Menamparampil sought to offer their assistance. A delegation of 15 of them went from Guwahati to visit the camps near Chokihola and Jongpha.  Other delegates came from Golaghat, Diphu and other places. Some of the team members visited even the remote villages. The visiting ecumenical team which had grown in size by the time they reached the Rengma village of Jongpha sought to persuade the two groups to send their representatives to Guwahati for exploring ways of restoring normalcy in the area. Hope for peace and reconciliation is rising in the Karbi Anglong district as the leaders of the two communities have agreed and are due visit Guwahati for the proposed meeting. It is at this juncture that Archbishop Menamparampil receives his new appointment. Over a period of 15 years as the archbishop of Guwahati, the Salesian prelate and his Peace Team successfully led seven major peace initiatives — Bodo-Adivasi in 1996, Kuki-Paite in 1998, Dimasa-Hmar in 2003, Karbi-Kuki in 2003, Dimasa-Karbi in 2004, Bodo-Muslim at Udalguri in 2010 and Rabha-Garo in 2011. In November 2013, the prelate was conferred an Honorary Doctorate from Universita’ Urbaniana in Rome for his outstanding contribution for promotion of cross cult 2 nd Feb,2014Pope Francis: a Church without nuns is “unimaginable” Show Pope Francis on Sunday, Feb 2, highlighted the great value that nuns bring to the Church. “What would happen” – the Pope said – “if there were no nuns? No nuns in hospitals, in missions, in charitable institutions, in schools… Can you even imagine a Church without nuns…? No it is unthinkable!”. And speaking on the day in which we celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life, the Pope said that nuns are great women. He said “they are a gift, the leaven that carries the message of Christ”. “These women – he said – are great!” The Pope’s words came before the Sunday recitation of the Angelus in St Peter’s Square, after having presided over Mass in the Basilica on the Feast Day of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, a Feast which is traditionally dedicated to Consecrated Life. To those gathered in the Square Pope Francis said that consecrated persons in different sectors are “the leaven of a more just and fraternal society”. He said that “Consecrated Life is a gift of God to the Church and to His people”. The Pope said that the Church and the world needs the witness of religious and consecrated lay people to the love and the mercy of God, and he asked for prayers so that many young people may say “yes” to God who calls them “to consecrate their lives to Him and to be of service to their brothers and sisters”. Pope Francis recalled that the year 2015 will be dedicated to Consecrated Life and asked for prayers for this initiative. After the recitation of the Angelus Prayer, Pope Francis reminded those present that in Italy “The Day for Life” is celebrated today with the theme “Generating the Future”. He sent his greetings and encouragement to those committed to the defence of life from its conception to its natural end. Source: Vatican Radio order levitra online 2 nd Feb,2014Be a Sacrament for Others: Bishop Raphy Show    “Be a sacrament for others just like Jesus was a sacrament for others,” said Bishop Raphy Manjaly, the Bishop of the Allahabad exhorting Sisters Renu CJ and Kiran CJ who were committing themselves by perpetual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad on February 2, 2014. In a touching ceremony, the parents of Sr. Renu and Sr.  Kiran offered their daughters to the Lord, a sign that they belong, henceforth, wholly to the Lord. The aspirants, Sr. Renu and Sr. Kiran were asked by Sr. Sumita Pinto, Provincial Superior of the Congregation of Jesus to declare publically their desire and readiness to take on themselves the responsibilities and demands of living a consecrated life under the vows.  The courageous women responded with a resounding ‘YES’ after which the Provincial gave them permission to make their commitment. At the most sacred moment of the Holy Mass, the two pronounced the vows of poverty, chastity, obedience and the fourth vow: obedience to the Pope while the entire Congregation gathered on the occasion, prayed earnestly for these young women that they may remain faithful to their commitment and find joy and fulfillment in their lives. Sr. Daya, the silver jubilarian renewed her vows, thus declaring her decision to continue this way of life for the rest of her life. She has served in varying capacities as a nurse and a social worker in several parts of U.P. and Uttarakhand during the last 25 years. At present she is the Regional Programme Coordinator of UKSVK (Uttar Ksetriya Samaj Vikas Kendra) at Agra. After the mass, the final professed sisters and the silver jubilarian were felicitated at the provincial house and a delicious lunch was served thereafter. order levitra online 1 st Feb,2014Diocese of Kannur Gets a New Bishop Show Vatican City: Pope Francis on Saturday appointed Father Alex Joseph Vadakumthala, vicar general of Verapoly archdiocese, as the new bishop of Kannur, Kerala, southern India. The northernmost diocese in Kerala has been without a bishop since May 15, 2012, following the transfer of Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal to Calicut, Vatican Radio reported. Father Alex was born on June 14, 1959, at Maradu- Panangad in Kerala’s Ernakulam district. He began his studies in Panangad then continued to St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary in Ernakulam. He completed Philosophy and Theology at Papal Seminary Pune. He was ordained a priest in1984 at the cathedral of Verapoly. The bishop-elect served as the secretary of the Commission for Health under the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) for ten years starting 1999. Before his appointment as the vicar general, he assisted the Chancellor of Verapoly archdiocese and directed Communications Arts Cochin. He was also the project director for the CBCI Society of Medical Education in North India, based at Ranchi, Jharkhand. He started his priestly life as the assistant priest in Verapoly cathedral. He was parish priest of St. Philomena’s Church, Koonamavu, and studied doctorate in canon law at the Pontifical Urban University during 1988-1992. He also served as the official of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care for six year from 1993. Bishop-elect Vadakumthala also worked as lecturer and attorney at St. Joseph ‘s Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye He was also the president of the Canon Law Society of India during 2009-2013. Kannur diocese was created in 1998 as a suffragan of Verapoly archdiocese. It covers 4,988 square kilometers where some 2.772 million people live, including 50,768 are Catholics. Its 59 parishes are served by 122 priests (46 diocesan and 76 religious), 112 religious brothers, 580 sisters and 16 major seminarians. Source: Matters India order levitra online 26 th Jan,2014Inculcate the Value of Politeness: Bishop Raphy Show Allahabad 26th January, 2014: A colourful and spectacular ceremony of Graduation and Lamp Lighting as well as Capping was held at the Nazareth Hospital School of Nursing today. Most Rev Dr Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad was the Chief Guest and Padma Shree Dr Paul B Thaliath, Dy Director, Kamla Nehru Memorial Hospital was the Guest of Honour. Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Raphy exhorted the nurses to walk in the footsteps of Florence Nightingale very specially inculcating in themselves the most wanted quality namely ‘Politeness’. Giving few statistics of health care scenario, he exhorted all the healthcare providers to be committed and to be ready for the need of the hour towards the sick and suffering. Earlier, the programme began with a Prayer Dance by the Nursing Students which succeeded in creating a sense of serenity and peace. It was followed by the Lighting of the Lamp by the Bishop and other dignitaries present. The Welcome Speech by the Patriarch of Nazareth family, Rev Fr K K Antony, Director of the Hospital, was the next item. He in his inimitable way welcomed all the dignitaries present. Then the caps were blessed by the Bp Dr. Raphy Manjaly and Mrs. Mary Paul capped the 37 students of the 24th Batch. Rev Sr Preema, Principal, lit the lamps, symbolic of the light carried by the first and model nurse, Florence Nightingale. It was followed by the Pledge taken by the nurses. Then followed the 20th ­batch Graduation Ceremony in the glorious history of the Nazareth Hospital School of Nursing in which 22 final year students were awarded graduation certificates and another 37 were admitted to the strenuous study stream of the noble profession of caring for the sick. Most Rev Dr Raphy Manjaly then gave away prizes for various categories. Rev Sr Preema, the Principal of the Nazareth Hospital School of Nursing, had few words of appreciation and she exhorted the students to be other nightingales imitating her noble qualities of Love, Compassion and Sacrifice for the welfare of the ailing millions. Bishop Raphy Manjaly then blessed the gathering and especially the students present. The Staff then presented a Group Dance which enthralled all. In his address the Guest of Honour of the day Padma Shree Dr Paul Thaliath lauded the selfless service rendered by Nazareth Hospital to the citizens of Allahabad and its neighbouring districts. He particularly applauded the Hospital Administration for its effort in maintaining a high standard of Nursing Care and making treatment affordable for the ailing masses.  order levitra online 23 rd Jan,2014Fiona and Alisha Top in the Diocesan Catechism Exam Show The Commission for Catechetics today published the results of the Diocesan Catechism Examination 2014 which was held on the 07th of December 2013 for Class X and XII. Congratulating all the participants, Rev. Fr. Sunil Noronha, the director said that a total number of 91 students appeared for the aforesaid exam in which Allahabad (55), Sonebhadra (10) and Kanpur Zone (26) had represented. Fiona Marissa Fernandes from St. Joseph Worker Church/ St. Joseph Sr.Sec Kanpur secured 80% and stood first in Class XII exams, while Bliss Raphael from St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad/ St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad (78%) and Kareena Joseph from St. Patrick’s Church Kanpur/St. Mary’s Inter College Kanpur & Stefy Joseph from St. Francis Assisi Church Anpara/ St. Francis School Anpara (75%) got the second and third position respectively.          In the Class X examination, Alisha Jasper from St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad/St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad topped with 85% while Aroma Grace Amue from the same College secured the second position with 80%. The third position was shared by five persons with 74%: Prateek Alex Toppo from St. Patrick’s Church Allahabad/St. Joseph’s College, Pradnita Komal Henry from St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad, Divya Merin Sunny from St. Joseph’s Church Rihandnagar/St. Joseph’s School Rihand, Rachel Alice Chakravorty from St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad and Adrian Kevin Fernandes from St. Joseph Worker/ St. Joseph Sr. Sec. Kanpur. He thanked all the Parish Priests, Principals, Assistant Priests, Rev. Brothers, Rev. Sisters and laity for their whole hearted cooperation in strengthening the faith of the young ones. order levitra online 23 rd Jan,2014Catechism Results 2014 Announced Show Commission for Catechetics: Diocese of Allahabad Results of the Examination for Class X and XII Class    X 1. Vishal Minz Don Bosco Church BETHANY SCHOOL 40 2. Salomy Samson Don Bosco Church BETHANY SCHOOL 54 3. Vivek Minz Don Bosco Church BETHANY SCHOOL 40 4. Jasmine Masih Don Bosco Church BETHANY SCHOOL 40 5. Jai Ashish Toppo Don Bosco Church BETHANY SCHOOL 41 6. Aroma Grace Amue   SMC ALLAHABAD 80 7. Abishaina Harris   SMC ALLAHABAD 57 8. Agnes Joseph St.Patrick's Church SMC ALLAHABAD 67 9. Anugrah Navitt   SMC ALLAHABAD 58 10. Ritika Pallavi Singh   SMC ALLAHABAD 56 11. Rachel Alice chakravorty   SMC ALLAHABAD 72 12. Alisha Jasper St.Joseph's Cathedral SMC ALLAHABAD 85 13. Tanya Raman St.Joseph's Cathedral SMC ALLAHABAD 50 14. Sagarika Jacqueline william St.Joseph's Cathedral SMC 22 nd Jan,2014Ecumenical Prayer Service Held in the Cathedral Show In an ecumenical effort, the bishops, moderators, pastors, priests, deacons and faithful from different denominations gathered in St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad at 5 pm on 21st January 2014 for the Unity Prayer Service in view of the Unity Octave, keeping in mind the prayer of Jesus: “that they all may be one”( Jn 17:21). Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, the Catholic Bishop of Allahabad, Rev. Collin. C. Theodore, the Moderator Episcopal Commissary Diocese of Lucknow, Rev. Pastor Dawood (C.N.I.), Rev. Rajan Das (B.S.I), various priests and laity took part and prayed together for the Christian unity during this hour long service. In his message, Rev. Collin said that Christian Unity means to come together in the need of one another and pray for each other in the name our Lord and Master Jesus Christ. He emphasized that the essence of Christian unity is based on love and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although we belong to different denominations we are united in the name of Christ. We have to march ahead in this life journey by co-operating one another and showing love and sacrifice towards our brethren on earth. We are united because we bear the same witness of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Rev. Rajan Das, representative of Bible Society of India, prayed for the different intentions of Christian Unity that all may be one and spread the Good News and the moral values of Jesus Christ. He also prayed for the people of Allahabad city that all people may understand the human dignity and proceed towards the kingdom of heaven. Most Rev. Bishop Raphy Manjaly, after the gospel reading by Rev. Fr. Francis D’Souza, the rector St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad delivered his valuable message to all the faithful present there. He said that the basis of our Christian Unity is Jesus Christ. Jesus is the perfect example of love and sacrifice for us. After washing the feet of His disciples, at the last supper He prayed for the unity. He also emphasized that the Holy Spirit is the basis of Christian Unity and the value of prayer in our life. He said that Holy Spirit is the one who binds us together in one spirit and unity. He summoned to the people gathered to pray to the Holy Spirit that he may guide us that we all may remain one. The choir from St.Joseph’s Regional Seminary kept the atmosphere prayerful throughout the prayer service. With the joint blessing from Bishop Raphy Manjaly and the gathered pastors prayer service came to an end.  order levitra online 18 th Jan,2014Mother Angela UMI Breathes her Last Show Reverend Sister Maria Angela Tharayil, popularly known as Mother Angela, a member of the Congregation of the Ursulines of Mary Immaculate, Lucknow Province, went to her eternal reward at 11.30 am on 18th January, 2014, at the age of 90 years in Mariampur Convent, Kanpur.   Mother Angela was born on 8th October 1924 in a devout family of Mr. K.P.  Vavoo and Mrs. Teresa at Kottekad, Trichur in Kerala. She entered the portals of UMI on the 21st October 1946 and was professed in 1949. Very prayerful and disciplined from the beginning, Mother Angela loved her vocation. Her loving nature, devotion in prayer and commitment in service attracted many more (such as Sr. Claudia, Sr. Chrisanta, Sr. Christina, Sr. Angeline, Sr. Angel and others) from her family to Ursuline Congregation. People love her for her simplicity and generosity. Education and pastoral care were her favourite ministries. Out of her 65 years of religious life, she has spent 55 years in the diocese of Allahabad, especially in St. Patrick’s Kanpur, Chakeri, Mariampur, Obra and Robertsganj. The mortal remains of Sr. Angela will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Chunniganj, Kanpur after the funeral service at 11 am on 20th January, 2014 at Mariampur Convent, Kanpur to be conducted by Bishop Raphy Manjaly in the presence of the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Alex D’Souza, UMI Provincial Sr. Rupa UMI, Vice Provincial Sr. Rose George UMI, priests, religious and laity of the diocese and neighbouring dioceses. Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her, May her soul rest in peace. order levitra online 14 th Jan,2014Pope Announces the Names of New Cardinals Show The names of Pope Francis’ nineteen cardinals designate were announced after last Sunday’s Angelus for the world to hear. But who are the men behind the names? The new cardinals will come from all corners of the globe and from an incredibly diverse range of ministries – we took a look at this exciting list and summarized the highlights. On February 22nd 2014, the Feast of the Chair of Peter, Pope Francis will create sixteen new cardinals: PIETRO PAROLIN Part of the Holy See’s diplomatic corps since 1986, he was Apostolic Nuncio in Venezuela between 2009 and 2013, when Pope Francis nominated him Vatican Secretary of State. LORENZO BALDISSERI Previously Apostolic Nuncio in Brazil, where he welcomed Pope Benedict XVI on his visit in 2007, he was Secretary of the Congregation of Bishops from January 2012 until nominated Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops by Pope Francis in September 2013. GERHARD LUDWIG MÜLLER Having graduated in philosophy and theology, he was professor of Dogmatic Theology at the Catholic Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich (Germany) between 1986 and 2002, travelling as visiting professor to universities worldwide. In 2012 Pope Benedict XVI nominated him Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, President of the Pontifical Commission “Ecclesia Dei”, President of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and President of the International Theological Commission. BENIAMINO STELLA Part of the Holy See’s diplomatic corps since 1970, he was previously Apostolic Nuncio in Cuba and Colombia, and was nominated Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy by Pope Francis in September 2013. VINCENT GERARD NICHOLS Master of Arts in Theology and previously Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, he was Metropolitan Archbishop of Birmingham (UK) between 2000 and 2009, when Pope Benedict XVI nominated him Metropolitan Archbishop of Westminster (UK). LEOPOLDO JOSÉ BRENES SOLÓRZANO He obtained his Licentiate of Sacred Theology at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome (Italy) and was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Managua (Nicaragua) by Pope John Paul II in March 2005. GÉRALD CYPRIEN LACROIX, I.S.P.X. Part of the “Institut Séculier Pie X” since 1975, he has been both Secretary General and Director General of the institute, as well as Director General of its centre for spiritual formation “Maison du Renouveau”. He was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Québec (Canada) by Pope Benedict XVI in February 2011. JEAN-PIERRE KUTWA Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Theology and previously Metropolitan Archbishop of Gagnoa (Ivory Coast), he was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Abidjan (Ivory Coast) in May 2006. ORANI JOÃO TEMPESTA, O. CIST. A member of the Cistercian Order since 1969, he was Prior of the São Bernardo monastery in São José do Rio Pardo (Brazil) from 1984 until the monastery became an abbey in 1996, when he was elected its first Abbott. Previously President of Brazil’s National Commission for Culture, Education and Social Communications, he was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) in February 2009, in which capacity he welcomed Pope Francis on his visit in July 2013. GUALTIERO BASSETTI He was previously a member of the Episcopal Commission of the Italian Episcopal Conference for the Clergy and Consecrated Life, and a member of the Managing Board of the Catholic Committee for Cultural Collaboration with Orthodox Churches of the Byzantine tradition and Eastern Orthodox Churches. He is currently Vice-President of the Italian Episcopal Conference for Central Italy, and Archbishop of Perugia-Città della Pieve (Italy). MARIO AURELIO PIOLI Having graduated as Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina, he was appointed there as professor of Ecclesiastical History in 1980. He is currently President of the Episcopal Commission for Catholic Education and of the Episcopal Commission for Ministries with the Argentinian Episcopal Conference, and was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Buenos Aires (Argentina) by Pope Francis in March 2013. ANDREW YEOM SOO-JUNG Archbishop of Seoul (South Korea) since May 2012, he previously occupied a series of senior administrative posts within parishes and seminaries across South Korea. RICCARDO EZZATI ANDRELLO, S.D.B. A member of the Salesians of Don Bosco since 1966, he worked with the Salesian Society in parishes and educational institutions all over Chile. Previously Metropolitan Archbishop of Concepción (Chile), he was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Santiago (Chile) in December 2010. PHILIPPE NAKELLENTUBA OUEDRAOGO Previously a member of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, he was nominated Metropolitan Archbishop of Ouadraogo (Burkina Faso) by Pope Benedict XVI in May 2009. ORLANDO QUEVEDO, O.M.I. Already a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, he graduated in Pedagogy from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila (Philippines). He was appointed first Bishop of Kidapawan (Philippines) when the diocese was created in November 1982, and nominatedMetropolitan Archbishop of Cotabato (Philippines) by Pope John Paul II in 1998. CHIBLY LANGLOIS Nominated Bishop of Les Cayes (Haiti) by Pope Benedict XVI in August 2011, he was previously professor of Pastoral Theology at the Grand Séminaire Notre-Dame in Port-au-Prince (Haiti) and professor at the Diocesan Institute for Human Education and Promotion in Jacmel (Haiti). LORIS FRANCESCO CAPOVILLA A qualified journalist and former editor of a diocesan weekly magazine in Venice (Italy), he was secretary to Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, later Pope John XXIII, first in Venice and then in the Vatican. He was Pontifical Delegate for the Shrine of the Holy House of Loreto (Italy) from 1971 until his retirement in 1988. At 98 years old, he is the third oldest archbishop in the world and will be the oldest member of the College of Cardinals. SEBASTIÁN AGUILAR, C.M.F. A member of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and previously Bishop of León (Spain), he is Archbishop Emeritus of Pamplona (Spain) 4 th Jan,2014Pope Francis to Visit Sri Lanka Show Pope Francis is expected to visit Sri Lanka in the first half of this year to open South Asia’s largest university for theological studies. The island nation will become the first destination in Asia for Pope Francis, who took over the mantle from Pope Benedict XVI on March 13, 2013. The Pope, who hails from Argentina, “the other end of the world,” has accepted an invitation from Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, archbishop of Colombo and head of the Catholic Church Sri Lanka, Church sources said. The University for Theological Studies has been constructed in Bolawalana, Negombo, near Colombo, the national capital. The new university is considered the largest of its kind in South Asia. The Pope’s visit is to take place either at the end of February or in the month of March and the exact dates are expected to be announced by the Vatican in the near future. The university has been put up according to a proposal by Pope Benedict XVI. It will offer a general academic degree in theological studies. This is the third time a Pope will visit Sri Lanka. Pope Paul VI visited Sri Lanka in 1970, while Pope John Paul II visited the island in 1995 to preside over the religious rites in the beatification of Sri Lankan missionary Fr. Joseph Vaz. Sri Lanka and the Holy See established formal diplomatic relations in 1976. Pope Francis is also expected to visit neighboring India in December to attend the decennial exposition of St Francis Xavier’s relics kept in Bom Jesu Church in Old Goa. Courtesy: mattersindia.com order levitra online 25 th Dec,2013Christmas Mela Organized in Allahabad Show The Catholics in Allahabad shared the joy of the Birth of Jesus, Christmas, by organizing a three-day long Christmas Mela in the St. Joseph College Grounds which was inaugurated by Most. Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad on December 25 at 2.30 pm. The Christmas Mela-2013 was organized by the Catholic Diocese of Allahabad under the guidance of this Bishop. Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, Principal of St. Joseph's College and Rev. Fr. J.B.Castelino shouldered the responsibility of convening the Christmas Mela which will last for three days till the 27th from 2 to 8 pm daily. People flocked towards the Mela grounds in thousands and enjoyed every item of the Mela. Everyone was seen with lots of gusto and enthusiasm. The people of different faiths came together to celebrate Christmas. They visited St. Joseph's Cathedral and prayed for blessings on their families. The parents brought their children along to spend their winter vacation fruitfully. The people not only enjoyed different recipes but also participated in different games. The children spent most of their time on giant wheels, dragon wheels, disco wheels and on the back of camels. Children enjoyed the dance of the Santa Claus, placed at the entrance of St. Joseph's College. Everyone paid homage to the New Born Jesus found in the crib at the entrance of the Mela grounds. The place which attracted the most crowd was the Bible Exhibition which was depicted colourfully to show the life and message of Christ. There were beautiful cultural programmes at the Mela. All the programmes brought out the life and teachings of Christ. Bishop Raphy gave a thought provoking Christmas Message and invited everyone to stand for justice and peace in the society. The cultural committee headed by Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira presented various dances, group songs and skits with the help of Nazareth Hospital, St. Mary's College, St. Mary's Convent, St .Antony's School and College and Bethany School. The magic show by Ravinder Kumar added entertainment to the programme. He sensitized the people regarding the hazards of tobacco in life. He suggested various ways to prevent cancer. The laughter show by Imran Jafree amused the crowd. order levitra online 15 th Dec,2013Christmas is the Encounter with Jesus: Pope Show (Vatican Radio) “Christmas for me is hope and tenderness . . .” The latest interview with Pope Francis, given to the Italian newspaper “La Stampa” begins with a reflection on the meaning of Christmas. In an hour and a half long conversation with Vaticanista Andrea Tornielli, the Pope addressed the themes of the suffering of children and the tragedy of world hunger; the relationship between the Catholic Church and other Christian bodies; and questions about marriage and the family, the focus of next year’s Extraordinary meeting of the Synod of Bishops. As the first Christmas of his pontificate approaches, the Pope explained how to live the season with his usual simplicity: “It is the encounter with Jesus.” Christmas is an encounter between God and His people. And it is also a consolation, “a mystery of consolation.” Christmas, the Pope said, “speaks to us about tenderness and hope.” It is an invitation to all Christians to not become “a cold Church, that doesn’t know where it’s going, that is tied up in ideologies, in worldly attitudes.” Pope Francis responds to the critics and the stereotypes of those who would trivialize the celebration of Christmas with a few persuasive words: “When one doesn’t have the capacity, or is there is a human situation that doesn’t permit you to understand this joy, you live the feast with a worldly cheer. But between the profound joy and mundane cheerfulness there is a difference.” From his reflections on Christmas, the Pope moved on to a reflection on the 50th anniversary of the historic visit of Pope Paul VI to the Holy Land. Pope Francis expressed his desire to go there himself to meet with “my brother Bartholomew, the patriarch of Constantinople.” Pope Francis then dealt with the question of the innocent suffering of children, who do not understand the reason of their suffering, and who can only entrust themselves to God, “to entrust themselves to His gaze.” And the suffering of children is seen too in situations of hunger. The Pope invites us to shake off indifference and to avoid waste. The social doctrine of the Church is the Pope’s compass, as he himself explained, referring to Evangelii gaudium, and to some criticisms that have come from some circles. To his mind, there are the poor and [there is] the economy that never seems to better their condition even in periods of prosperity. When asked if he ever feels offended by being called a Marxist, the Pope answered no: “It is a mistaken ideology, but I have known so many Marxists who as persons are good, and for this reason I am not offended.” The unity of Christians is another priority. Today, Pope Francis says, there exists an “ecumenism of blood.” He explains that in many countries, Christians are killed without distinction, but unity is a grace that is still yet to come. On the question of the Sacraments for the divorced and re-married, the Pope said he doesn’t take a position, but referred to the Consistory in February and the extraordinary Synod in October 2014. He emphasized the necessity of prudence, “not as a paralyzing attitude, but as a virtue of those who govern.” Responding to a question about the proper relationship between the Church and politics, Pope Francis spoke about a relationship that moves in different environments and with different tasks, but which must converge in helping the people. “Politics is noble,” he said, citing Paul VI. “It is one of the highest forms of charity. We dirty it when we use it for business.” Finally, Pope Francis spoke about the image of women in the Church, who must be esteemed and not “clericalized.” Source: news.va order levitra online 12 th Dec,2013Pope Francis Selected as Person of the Year by Time Magazine Show The director of the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J., has commented on the nomination of Pope Francis as “person of the year” by Time magazine.   “This fact is unsurprising, considering the resonance and very widespread attention given to the election of Pope Francis and the beginning of his pontificate. It is a positive sign that one of the most prestigious acknowledgements in the field of the international press has been attributed to one who proclaims spiritual, religious and moral values in the world, and who speaks effectively in favour of peace and greater justice."   “With regard to the Pope, for his part, he does not seek fame and success, since he carries out his service for the proclamation of the Gospel and the love of God for all. If this attracts men and women and gives them hope, the Pope is content. If this nomination as “Person of the Year” means that many have understood this message, at least implicitly, he will certainly be glad”.   Source: VIS order levitra online 3 rd Dec,2013Raphy Manjaly installed as the 11th Bishop of Allahabad Show Bishop Raphy Manjaly is installed as the 11th Bishop of Allahabad by His Grace Archbishop Salvatore Pinnacchio, the Apostolic Nuncio of India in the presence of 20 bishops, almost 200 priests and over 2000 nuns and lay people in the St. Joseph College grounds on 3rd December, 2013 at 9:30 am IST. The ceremony began with a brief introduction of Bishop Raphy by Miss Shanta Peter the National Youth awardee for 2013 followed by a dance by the trainees from St. Mary’s Junior College of Education welcoming and leading all the priests, Bishops and the Apostolic Nuncio of India to the Holy Altar at the College premises which was decorated beautifully. In the beginning of the installation ceremony, Bishop Raphy was presented as the candidate for by Fr. Isidore D’Souza who conducted the proceedings of the ceremony. His Excellency Salvatore Pinnacchio asked him whether he has any mandate from the Holy See. On production of the ‘Papal Bull’, Msgr Marco Sprizzi the Counselor of the Nunciature read it out in Latin, a translation of which was given by Fr. Francis Xavier J.  Bishop Raphy was then offered the ‘Crosier’ as a sign of authority and service of a good shepherd and was made to sit on the ‘Cathedra’ by the Nuncio, Archbishop Albert D’Souza and Bp. Ignatius Menezes. Thereafter, His Excellency Salvatore Pinnacchio gave his message in English, a brief translation of which was read out in Hindi by Fr. Vipin D’Souza. The nuncio showered the blessings of Pope Francis and spelling out his message exhorted that it is the responsibility of all the priests to carry out the message of Jesus and urged all the faithful of the diocese to cooperate with the new Bishop and work with the spirit of brotherhood. All the priests and religious representatives of Allahabad then vowed their allegiance to the newly appointed Bishop. Bishop Raphy then offered the Holy Mass along with the bishops and priests. Rt. Rev. Gerald Mathias, Bishop of Lucknow preached an inspiring homily enumerating the good qualities of a good shepherd. He stressed on the three qualities of the Bishop, that is, “to teach, to sanctify and to govern” must be followed by each and every one to ensure betterment of the mankind. Rev. Fr. Reginald D’Souza and the Seminarians from St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary along with the representatives from various institutions of Allahabad melodiously voiced the choir for the Holy Mass. After the Holy Mass a small felicitation programme was organized. This began with a splendid welcome dance by the students of St. Mary’s Convent Inter College, Allahabad. Rev. Fr. Rolfie D’Souza welcomed the Apostolic Nuncio. Then Rev. Fr. William Mathias felicitated the interim bishop, Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes who served Allahabad diocese for 11 months since January 31, 2013 as the Apostolic Administrator. Bishop Menezes in his address thanked all the priests of Allahabad for their warmth and cooperation in all his activities pertaining to the diocese. Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas welcomed the new bishop Raphy Manjaly to the diocese of Allahabad equating his qualities with the rich cultural heritage of Allahabad. He emphasized that with his vast knowledge and experience Bishop Raphy would certainly proved to be a true shepherd for the priest and all the faithful of the diocese, and would ensure that the teachings of the Lord is preserved and spread across the diocese. Most Rev. Dr. Albert D’Souza, the archbishop of Agra also highlighted the qualities of Bishop Bishop Raphy and felicitated him on behalf of the Agra Ecclesiastical Region. Bishop Raphy Manjaly thanked all the people for their presence and prayers. He then expressed his desire that he wants to make the diocese of Allahabad a vibrant one in the region. The students of St. Joseph’s College then presented a dance sequence highlighting the preaching of “Jesus as the healer” and good Shepherd. Rev. Fr. Thomas Kumar proposed the vote of thanks on behalf of all the priest of the Diocese followed by Papal Anthem. There were 500 religious nuns and 1500 laity present from all over the diocese comprising of Allahabad, Kanpur, Sonebadhra and Sultanpur zones. There were priests, nuns and laity from the neighbouring dioceses of Varanasi, Lucknow and Agra too. Mr. Anthony Dev Kumar the IG of Allahabad also was present during this occasion. The representatives from various other religions such as Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam and Parsee also were present to greet the newly appointed bishop. The pastors from the Ecumenical Churches also made their presence felt. Fr. Sebastian Francis, Mr. Aubrey McGowen and Mr. Shantha Peter were the anchors for the ceremonies. The felicitation programme came to an end with the ‘Papal Anthem’. order levitra online 28 th Nov,2013Bishop Raphy bids farewell to Varanasi Show Varanasi: Bishop Raphy Manjaly bid farewell to Varanasi diocese on Thursday, after serving the northern Indian diocese that covers Hinduism’s most sacred city for six and a half years. The 55-year-old prelate is scheduled to take charge of neighbouring Allahabad diocese on December 3. Bishop Manjaly was only 48 when he replaced Varanasi’s first prelate, Bishop Patrick D’Souza who served the diocese since 1970. In a recent interview with Matters India reporter, Indian Missionary Society Father Ajesh Thomas, Bishop Manjaly shared his experience in Varanasi and his plans for his new assignment. MATTERS INDIA: Why are you being transferred to Allahabad? BISHOP RAPHY MANJALY: Basically, the transfer is not my decision. It is the superiors who decide. I personally do not know why I am being transferred. But from people, priests and others, I hear that the diocese of Allahabad wants a bishop, who has experience as a bishop and who knows the priests and the diocese of Allahabad. Probably these reasons may have caused the superiors to appoint me as the bishop of Allahabad. How was your work as the bishop of Varanasi? I personally believe that people and priests should evaluate my work. Whatever I say can only be subjective. But I say my efforts in Varanasi were to build on the foundations laid by my predecessor Bishop Patrick D’ Souza, and to introduce new things wherever it was required. The basic thrust of my ministry has been to strengthen the faith of priests, religious and faithful, mainly to set a spiritual tone or spiritual atmosphere. That has been the thrust. It does not mean that I concentrated only on those tasks. There were other works also. Nevertheless, I would say my primary concern was to strengthen the faith and to help the people to be more spiritual. What were the challenges you faced? Well, first of all, it was not easy to step into the shoes of a great bishop like Patrick D’Souza who guided this diocese for the past 37 years. People tended to compare me with him. Right in the beginning I told them Bishop Patrick was a great bishop, a genius, and he has got his own strengths. I am totally a different person and I have my strength and my own ways of doing things. But still I would say there were comparisons. Secondly it was a new diocese for me. I was a priest of Agra archdiocese and my exposure outside the diocese was the diocese of Allahabad. So to get the confidence of the people, the priests and the religious was a challenge, and to study a new diocese and to know the people and start working was a challenge definitely. Varanasi is the holiest city of Hindus. What is the role of the Church in such a place? The Church’s primary role is to preach the good news. That has not changed in the beginning. The only thing is that it gets more and more contextualized and the values are always perennial. Gospels contain perpetual values. The Church’s role is to see the areas of convergence and work together with them for the well-being of society, and the people. At the same time one need not compromise on one’s principles and convictions. I suppose, what is required is to be authentic and meet them (Hindus) sincerely, accept the differences and work together. I feel there are areas where we can work together by removing prejudices and building understanding. Leaders have this understanding and ability to corporate and percolate down to simple people. There has been a call to give Varanasi a status like the Vatican City. Do you support such a move? Vatican became a state for historical reasons. It is part of history. It evolved and circumstances contributed to Vatican becoming a state. If Varanasi is trying to do it, it will be something an afterthought or to say something which will be done by human considerations. But I am not against it. I would say the circumstances leading to these two things are different, one is historical evolution as the circumstances contributed and the other is, one tries to compare and do something like the other. These are two different things. If it is possible, it can be done and I am for it. I am just pointing out the difference. What are your plans for Allahabad? What is the assessment of the situation of the Church there? I have not made any big plan as such but I do believe that certain structures have to be built up wherever they are lacking and there is need to be more pastoral in our approach in every station, in every institution. We need to be people friendly and have basic simplicity. You are going to a diocese whose earlier bishop was removed in a controversial situation? How do you plan to heal the wounds there, if any, among the faithful and others? Well, I do not know of any deep wounds caused to the faithful and priests, but what I would like to do is to listen to the people. Enter into conversation, listen to them and find out the difficulties faced by people, priests, and religious and after ascertaining the fact and knowing the situation I would like to understand them, and to be of help whichever the way possible. Definitely, I would like to be for them a shepherd, someone who understands them, someone who cares for them, and someone who loves them. That is the message I want to send across. The Church in Uttar Pradesh is very miniscule, although it has the oldest diocese of northern India (Agra). What are the challenges the Church faces in the most populous state in India? The Church in general has been institutional. By and large institutionalization has taken place. We need to become more people friendly and pastoral and get back to, as Vatican II said, knowing people’s joys and sorrows. By being close to them and by experiencing what they go through, we should make polices and plans that will be of help for them. Another challenge would be globalization. Market economy and the gap between the rich and the poor is the result of this. So we need to educate people about the powers that are at work in society and help them not to fall into the trap of advertisements and mechanism of the multinationals and market forces, because they keep advertizing and creating unnecessary needs and propagating false doctrines. Thus it is a challenge. Fundamentalism is another challenge and the Church has a role to unite people. We should appreciate our rich tradition and culture and the religious tolerance of our people towards believers of other faiths. These are the things I would exhort. How are you going to implement some of the instructions of Pope Francis, especially regarding poverty and support to justice and peace? Well, regarding poverty, it has to begin with simple lifestyle removing from my life and life of my people all that is superfluous, all that is unnecessary, and also to develop a culture of caring and sharing. Of course the first step is to build this awareness. Second is to motivate people towards that goal. Third would be to tak 28 th Oct,2013Platinum Jubilee Celebrated by Canossians in Pratapgarh Show The Sisters of the Canossian Daughters of Charity popularly known as Canossian Sisters celebrated the Platinum Jubilee of their existence in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh marked with a Concelebrated Solemn Eucharist at 5 pm on 27th October 2013 and thereafter a short felicitation programme. Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes, the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad, along with 25 priests, about hundred Sisters and 500 lay people prayed for the Sisters who served and who are serving the people of God with love in Pratapgarh. In his homily Bishop Ignatius said, “St. Francis Convent stands erect today because of the sweat and blood of the dedicated nuns who sacrificed their comforts and served the needy in the field of education, health, social work and pastoral care for the past 75 years. We salute them for their dedication and selfless service towards the humankind.”  He invited nuns to base their ministry on the foundation of prayer. Sr. Reema FDCC in her introduction to the Mass recalled the pioneer Sisters: Mother Maria Ferrario, Sr. Victoria Soares, Sr. Rosetta Vigano and Sr. Elsie Kelly who arrived at Pratapgarh on 6 July, 1938 at the request of Bishop Angelo Poli. Education was their priority in the ministry then. Later in 1958 they extended their area of evangelization to Health Ministry too. Today they are involved in social ministry and pastoral care too. Sr. Prafulla invited the congregation to pray for various needs of the Church in general and of the Canossians need in particular. A ceremonial felicitation, blended with cultural program began with a prayer dance by Srs. Meena, Leeshma and Ms. Sunidhi.  Sr. Catherine Rudolf welcomed the distinguished guests while they were greeted with flowers and badges. After the lamp lighting ritual, the Bishop blessed the cake, and Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Thottumari, the Provincial Superior along with Sr. Maxie the local Superior and Sr. Veronica Mampilly cut the cake and shared the joy of the jubilee. The Lay Canossians depicted the ministry of the Canossians through a tableau. The teachers from St. Francis Primary School sang a jubilee song, while the kids from the school danced to the “Rock and Roll, Jesus came to save my soul” tune. The power point presentation refreshed the past memories of the Sisters. The youth enthralled the audience with their scintillating and rhythmic western dance. The nurses from Canossa Hospital too presented a melodious item. The provincial felicitated Mr. Edward D’Souza for his association with the school for the last 40 odd years, and Ms. Khurdula for serving in the Hospital for the last 40 plus years. Sr. Maxie Monteiro FDCC expressed her gratitude to various people associated with the Platinum Jubilee Celebration. The celebration ended with a delicious dinner. St. Francis convent was honoured to have the Bishop, the provincial, the former provincials Sr. Ita Fernandes and Sr. Tresa Ambookan; Dr. Sr. Veronica, various other sisters from all the communities of Queen of Peace province, priests and sisters from neighbouring stations and laity too. Mr. Sriram Mishra, Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava and Mr. Hari Pratap Singh were the other local eminent personalities present during the celebration. The program was beautifully compeered by Mr. Prashobh D’Souza and Ms. Chou En. order levitra online 27 th Oct,2013Sonebhadra Zone Celebrated Year of Faith Show The Sonbhadra Zone of the Diocese of Allahabad celebrated the Year of Faith on Sunday 27th October 2013, in Nirmala Convent School Renukoot with great devotion.  About 1350 faithful  from nine  parishes of the zone, namely, St. Joseph’s Church, Shaktinagar, St. Joseph’s Church, Rihandnagar, St. Francis Church, Anpara,  Lourdes Church, Renukoot, Kripaon Ki Mata Church, Dudhi,    Khrist Jyoti Catholic Ashram,   Asnabandh,  Sacread Heart Church, Obra,  St. Francis Xavier Church,  Robertsganj and St. Mary’s Church, Mirzapur, came together with their priests and religious to witness their faith. The resource persons were Fr. Francis Vyagappan from Shanti Dham Ashram, Varanasi and Mr. Shaji George from Matrdham Ashram, Varanasi. Rt. Rev. Patras Minj , S.J., Bishop of Ambikapur diocese,  was the main celebrant for the solemn Eucharistic celebration. The program started with the welcome and Key Note address by Rev. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, the Dean of the Sonebhadra Deanery.  Then the enthroning the Holy Bible followed. The resource person, Fr. Vyagappan in his deliberations explained the real meaning of faith with the scriptural background.  Mr. Shaji George a convert to Christianity explained the need of deep faith in this fast changing world with his personal testimony. He was a powerful orator who touched the heart of every faithful. He challenged every Catholic who has received their faith from the birth and not witnessing Jesus in a more meaningful way. During the praise and worship a number of people had the opportunity to make their confessions. The solemn Eucharistic celebration began with the procession. Sr. Rita UMI from Renukoot gave a meaningful introduction for the Holy Mass. In his homily the main celebrant Rt. Rev. Patras Minj expressed his happiness to be in the diocese of Allahabad and congratulated all the priests and religious of the Sonbadra  zone for bringing together such a big crowd.  While explaining the faith of Abraham in the Old Testament and the Canaanite woman in the gospels, he urged the congregation to be deep rooted in their faith.  The Choir under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza from St. Francis Church, Anpara created a prayerful atmosphere by their melodious singing. After the festal blessing, the dean Fr. Eugene honored the main celebrant and the resource persons with the shawl.   Mrs. Elizabeth Regi from Renukoot proposed the vote of thanks. Rev. Fr. Baptist D’Souza, was the Master of Ceremony.  As the choir sang the recessional hymn, “Chirag Ban Jaho Tum Jaghme”, people were given the lighted candles and sent out with the light to keep their faith ever growing and deepening. The whole liturgy was meaningful and devotional. Rev. Fr. Raymond D’Souza, the Sisters from Nirmala Convent and the parishioners left no stones unturned to make the celebration a mega success. order levitra online 16 th Oct,2013Shanta Peter Receives the National Youth Award Show Miss Shantha Peter, daughter of Mr. Varghese Peter belonging to St. John Bosco Church, Naini received the National Youth Award on 12th October in Jalandhar during the National Youth Convention organized by ICYM.  She was privileged to receive the Certificate and the Trophy from the hands of Rt. Rev. Franko Mulakkal, the Bishop of Jalandhar Diocese. She is awarded this honour for her contribution towards the Youth Ministry and the Church since 2002. Presently, she is the Youth Vice-President of ICYM and the member of National Executive Committee of ICYM at the National level.   The diocese of Allahabad is proud to produce the fourth National Awardee after Mr. Manish Michael from St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad who received the Best Youth Award in the year 2000, Ms. Diana D'Souza of St. Thomas Church, Kadiwainagar in 2005, and Mr. Prashobh D'Souza of Holy Rosary Church, Pratapgarh in 2007. The ICYM Allahabad, along with the priests, religious and laity of the diocese congratulates the Awardee for this great achievement and conveys the best wishes that she may continue to contribute towards the growth of our youth in the diocese, region and nation at large. order levitra online 17 th Oct,2013Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly Appointed New Bishop of Allahabad Show Pope Francis has appointed Rt. Rev. Raphy Manjaly, till now Bishop of Varanasi, as Bishop of the Diocese of Allahabad. This Ecclesiastical Provision was made public in Rome on Thursday, 17th October, 2013, at noon local time. The same was announced, corresponding to 15:30 hours, Indian Standard Time, in St. Joseph's Cathedral, Allahabad by Rt. Rev. Ignatius Menezes, the Apostolic Administrator.  Born on 7th February 1958 in Thrissur District of Kerala to the devout family of Mr. M. V. Chacko and Mrs. Catherine, Bishop Raphy had his initial schooling in St. Francis Xavier School, Vendore. Having completed his High School studies in Thyagarajar High School in Algappanagar, he joined the diocese of Agra aspiring to become a missionary priest in 1973. After the Language Course in St. Lawrence Seminary, Agra, Reverend Bishop completed his philosophy and theology in St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad. He was ordained a priest on 11th May, 1983 after which he gave his pastoral services in Etah Mission for a year, and for six years as the Rector of St. Lawrence Minor Seminary, Agra. Thereafter, he went to Angelicum University, Rome for his Doctorate in Spirituality from 1990-1996. On his return, he was appointed the principal of St. Dominic’s School, Mathura for a year. From 1997 to 2005, he gave his services for the formation of the future priests in St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad: as a staff member for a year, as a vice rector for a year and as a rector for six years. From 2005 – 2007, he rendered his services as a Parish Priest of the Immaculate  Conception Cathedral, Agra and the Director of Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Agra. On 24th February, 2007 he was appointed as the Bishop of Varanasi Diocese. He was consecrated as the Bishop of Varanasi Diocese on 30th April 2007. order levitra online 3 rd Sep,2013September 7 to be Observed as a Day of Prayer Fasting Show Pope Francis wants theworld to put aside their differences and come together. On Sunday, 1stSeptember, while condemning the use of chemical weapons, the leader of theCatholic Church called for a negotiated settlement to the civil war in Syria,and announced that he would lead a worldwide day of fasting and prayer forpeace there on September 7. Pope Francis abandoned thetraditional religious theme of the weekly papal appearance to crowds in St.Peter's Square and instead spoke entirely, and with anguish, about Syria. "My heart is deeplywounded by what is happening in Syria and anguished by the dramatic developments"on the horizon, Pope Francis said, in an apparent reference to the U.S. andFrance considering a military strike to punish the Syrian regime for a chemicalweapons attack. Pope Francis reiteratedprevious appeals for all sides in the civil war to put down their arms and"listen to the voice of their conscience and with courage take up the wayof negotiations." The deteriorating drama ofSyria inspired Pope Francis to set aside September 7 as a day of fasting andprayer for Syria. Pope Francis invited Catholics, other Christians, those ofother faiths and non-believers who are "men of good will" to join himthat evening in St. Peter's Square to invoke the "gift" of peace forSyria, the rest of the Middle East and worldwide where there is conflict. "Theworld needs to see gestures of peace and hear words of hope and of peace,"Pope Francis said. He said the prayer vigil in the square will last from 7 p.m.until midnight. Courtesy: http://latino.foxnews.com order levitra online 11 th Aug,2013Eight More Seminarians Become Deacons Show Eight students of theology fromSt. Joseph’s Regional Seminary, Allahabad belonging to the various dioceses ofNorth India stepped up to the altar of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad andpledged their total commitment to the Lord during a solemn EucharisticCelebration as they were ordained deacons by Rt. Rev. Dr. Ignatius Menezes, theApostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad on Sunday, 11thAugust 2013 at 9.30 am. This ceremony of Ordination to the Diaconate was witnessedby more than forty five priests, several other religious persons, parishioners andmany well-wishers from in and around the city of Allahabad. The Bishop in hishomily appealed all the deacons to bear witness to Christ through their faithand by a life of simplicity. The celebration came to end at 12.15 p.m. followedby refreshment for all the people present. Later in the Seminary, Rev. Fr.Francis D’Souza, the Rector congratulated the deacons following which they wereaccorded a floral felicitation too. Their joy further enhanced when they cut thecake and shared it with their companions and others. The eight seminarians who becamedeacons are Dodiyar Sanjay for Udaipur, Gali Pradeep Kumar for Heralds of GoodNews, M. Deva Sundara Raj for Jhansi, Mandala Shanthi Kumar for Heralds of GoodNews, Melchior Kripal Kumar for Varanasi, Minj Mukhesh Dominic for Meerut, SonwaniJoseph Jaipal for Jaipur and Toppo Charles for Agra. On the day of diaconate thecandidate is ordained for the service of the altar and thus they receive theseven fold gift of the Holy Spirit to fulfill their ministry. A consecrationprayer by the Bishop is said upon deacons in the following words “may theyexcel in every virtue; in love that is sincere, in common for the sick and thepoor, in unassuming authority, in self discipline and in holiness of life….”Through the diaconate ceremony they become Deacons and represent the church andexercise their responsibilities in the liturgy and worship. They exercise aministry of the love within the community and fulfill certain administrative tasks.In other words, a deacon stands a medium between God and People. order levitra online 7 th Aug,2013Catholics in Allahabad Reach Out to the Flood Victims Show The diocese of Allahabad under the banner of Diocesan Development andWelfare Society (DDWS) undertook flood relief work to the people house arrestedby the recent floods in the regions of Ashoknagar, Ganganagar and Nevada. The team consisting of Rev. Fr. Deepak D’Souza,the Director of DDWS, Rev. Fr. Archibald D’Silva the Regional Youth Director,the students from St. Mary’s Teachers Training Institute, Ms. Rini, Mr. ChandraPrakash Gangaji, Mr. Dukhan travelled though the flooded roads by boat andreached out to the people trapped in the houses. The same was done by the studentsfrom St. Mary’s Convent Inter College too. As reported by the Director of DDWS many of the people were lowering thebuckets with the help of ropes to pick up the food packets and water. The mostneeded things were water, candles and match boxes. People were without food,water and electricity; safeguarding their things trapped in the houses. Some ofthem don’t even want to leave the houses just because their belongings andvehicles are trapped inside the houses. Many were waiting for the help andthe help came by boating through the streets. Someof them had lost all hope being unable to contact their near and dear ones asthey could not charge their mobiles. The administrations took a bold step in going through the flooded watersmorning till evening boating through the streets from house to housedistributing food and water. order levitra online 3 rd Aug,2013Rivers Ganga and Yamuna Rise above the Danger Level Show The two mighty rivers Ganga and Yamuna of Allahabad have been rising warningly for the past few days and crossed their danger marks on Thursday, 1st August 2013. This has revived the memories of dreaded floods of 1978, 1985 and 2003. DDWS team visited the spot to catch a glimpse of the vast expanse of water.  Areas like Ashok Nagar, Govindpur, Salori, Om Gayatri Nagar, Jondhwal, Kailashpuri, Katju ki Bagiya, Newada, Unchwa Garhi, Rajapur, Beli Gaon, Naya Purwa, Ganganagar, Balughat and outlying areas of Daryabad were submerged under the flood water of Ganga and Yamuna. Unfortunate more than 25,000 residents watched with disappointment as the rivers swept awaytheir property and belongings. Onthe other hand residents of areas close to Ganga, including Tagore Town, George Town and LIC Colony, spent sleepless nights following the threat posed by the rising level of the river. The Baradari acted as a point for a frontal view of water level in the river. The turbulence of Yamuna completely submerged the historicBaradari at Baluaghat, as residents shifted to safer place. River water hasalready started washing away the temporary huts constructed by the purohits and pandas.  Flood water of Yamuna also submerged localities near Chachar Nullah and Katehra in Daryabad locality where several houses constructed on the banks of the river were washed away. Besides, flood water has also entered houses in JK Nagar of Kareli locality (Places in Allahabad) even as harried residents fled to safety. With both the Ganga and the Yamuna increased, more than 10,000 houses in the low-lying areas of Allahabad have been forced to abandon their homes and seek shelter in safer places. While water level in the Ganga stood 85.320 meters, that Yamuna was recorded at 85.120 meters. The dangers mark is 84.73 meters for both rivers, which have been rising at an average rate of 3 – 5 cm per/hr. Till now there has been no loss of life on account of the floods though heavy damage to crops is likely as about 10,000 hectares of cultivated land have got submerged. Residents of low-lying localities are either moving to other areas or shifting to upper storeys of their buildings. The flood has also caused disappointment to pilgrims, as the holy Sangam has become inaccessible and even the famous Hanuman temple situated nearby Ganga is deep in water. Lots of people are trapped in flood-affected areas and are awaiting arrival of rescue team so that they could leave their submerged houses. The DM, Mr. Rajshekhar who toured the affected areas on 1st August 2013 issued strict instructions that officials should make arrangements for residents affected by flood at relief camps set up inside schools/colleges where they should be provided food and lodging facilities. Currently only three schools had been turned into shelter homes for the affected people, looking at the situation more shelter points need to be set up at some more schools/colleges for flood-affected people of Jamuna Bank Road, Katghar, Gaughat, Sadiapur and Meerapur.  DDWS team has planned to distribute food packets to the people by going to the people trapped in flood waters by boat. order levitra online 6 th Jul,2013SJC - New Primary Building Inaugurated Show Unveilingthe stone, handing over the gong of the bell, cutting the ribbon and blessingthe building with holy water by the chief guest Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes theApostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad marked the inauguration ofthe newly constructed building of the primary section of St. Joseph’s College,Allahabad in the adjacent of Sadhna Sadan campus on the eve of Saturday 6thJune 2013. Atthe very outset the chief guest unveiled the stone of the new building of St.Joseph’s College after which he handed over the gong of the bell to thePrincipal symbolizing the peaceful and joyful beginning of school activities inthe new building. The Principal, Vice principal - Rev. Fr. Ravi Joseph and the Headmaster-Fr. George Rodrigues then rang the bell to inaugurate the new building. Most  Rev. Ignatius Menezes then cut the ribbon heraldinga new era of education in one of the most prestigious colleges having a richlist of illustrious alumni spread all over the world glorifying the name of thecollege. ThePrincipal accorded a floral welcome to the Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes, Fr. K.K.Antony, Fr. J.B. Castelino, Justice R.D Khare, Mrs. Rita Bahuguna Joshi and toMr. Anugrah Narayan. The prayers were sung followed by some mellifluousrenditions which earned the appreciation of one and all. Abeautiful para-liturgy was organized in view of the blessings after which eachfloor of the building was blessed by distinguished priests Fr. Francis, Rectorof St. Joseph’s Seminary, Fr. K. K. Anthony, Director of Nazareth Hospital, Fr.Baptist Castelino, Rector of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Fr. Damien, Parish Priestof St. Patrick’s Church, Fr. Ravi Joseph and Fr. George Rodrigues,Vice-Principal and Headmaster of St. Joseph’s College respectively. The Bishop,in his address, praised Fr. Louis’s vision of installing smart classes and saidthat education should be geared towards the service to God and mankind. He stressedthat education should create an atmosphere of brotherhood. Earlier,the primary section students of the college sang a hymn named “Footsteps” symbolizing the 128 years ofsuccessful march of glory of the college. The students then presented somebeautiful dance performances adding colour to the festivities in an otherwisehot and humid weather. Expressinghis sincere gratitude and thanks to all those people who were associated withthe construction of the building Principal Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas presentedthem with gifts as token of love. Mr. A. McGowan concluded the program with avote of thanks. order levitra online 23 rd Apr,2013Sr. Christa CJ Breathes her Last Show Reverend Sister Christa, a member of Congregation of Jesus, Allahabad Province, went to her eternal reward on 23rd April, 2013, at the age of 78 years and 3 months in St.Mary’s Convent, Allahabad. Sr. Christa wasborn on 27th January, 1935 in a devout Catholic family to Chevalier Peter and Linda de Noronha at Kanpur. She was christened as Christine deNoronha. The sudden demise of her dear mother at the tender age of nine deprived her and her brother Doughlas of many childhood joys, but she found amother in Mrs. Florence de Noronha. She grew up among three brothers and two sisters- namely, the Late Doughles and Nevelle, then Alen, known as Chota Bhai,Irene and Louisa. Educated by theCJ sisters at Kanpur and Nainital, Sr. Christa developed a great love for religious life. On completing her training in Teachers’ Training College she taught forthree years in SMC Kanpur and then joined the CJ Congregation in 1959. She entered the Novitiate at Patna on 2nd Feb. 1961. Sr. Christa has spent greater part of her Religious life in Allahabad ‘21’ and ‘32’. Besidesshe was missioned in Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow and Bangalore. All through thepast 52 years of her Religious life, God has been carrying her in His arms safeand secure, giving her the necessary graces and strength to endure the hardships of life.  Sr.Christa hasbeen a person of rare capabilities of Head and Heart. Her calmness and serenityin times of adversity, cheerful service and perfectionism have influenced manylives. Sister possessed a keen ear for beautiful language and music and hadhelped as a Choir mistress in this Cathedral. As she was a voracious reader andhad vast knowledge about various things she was even known as a mobile encyclopedia. She was an excellent teacher and a great guide who has inspired many teachers, students and parents. The mortal remains of Sr. Christa will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Rajapur,Allahabad on 24th April, 2013 in the presence of the Bishop IgnatiusMenezes, Chancellor Rev. Fr. K.K. Antony, CJ Provincial Sr. Sumitha, priests,religious and laity of the diocese and neighbouring dioceses. Eternal restgrant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her, May her soul rest in peace. order levitra online 21 st Apr,2013Annual School Function Organised at SJS Rihandnagar Show St.Joseph School, Rihand Nagar celebrated their Annual Function on 20thApril’13 with great enthusiasm and gusto. Bishop Ignatius Menezes graced theoccasion with his benign presence. The Principal, staff & students of SJSwarmly welcomed the chief guest of the evening, Shri S.K. Sinha (GM-O&M,Rihand project NTPC). Thecultural show commenced with a grand opening ceremony followed by a prayerdance in the classical Bharatnatyam dance form. One programme followed theother in smooth succession, taking the show to its crescendo. Thepages of Panch-Tantra and Fairy Tales came alive on stage by the wonderfulenactment of the stories by students of K.G. and classes 1&2 respectively.The audience marveled at the educational action song ‘The Grammar House’presented by students of classes 4&5, who dressed as Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs,Adjectives & Adverbs taught them the rules of Grammar. Givinga panoramic view of our country, the students of class 3 took the audience to amesmerizing journey from Kashmir toKanyakumari through their wonderful show ‘Incredible India’. Theannual report presented by the Principal, Fr. Santosh Kr. Everest, detailed theachievements of SJS in the session 2012-2013. Among other cultural items werethe English Play staged by students of classes 9 & 10, an adaptation of thefamous play by John Brandane ‘Rocky Aforesaid’, sending the audience into pealsof laughter; a heart-touching Pantomime presented by the boys of classes10&11, highlighting the bitter consequences of ragging and athought-provoking message ‘Donate Eyes and Save Life’, by the students ofclasses 6 & 7 in the form of a dance. The contemporary dances presented byclass 12 captivate the audience by its perfectly synchronized movements andstyle. The show came to a befitting end by a message of peace delivered througha torch-dance. The darkened Hall, illuminated only by the dancing torch lightsgave a somber touch to an otherwise gay evening. TheSJS EXTRAVAGANZA’13 saw its perfect finale with the gentle showers of blessingsfrom heaven, when the skies poured their blessed drops on us mortals. order levitra online 22 nd Apr,2013Parish Feast celebrated at SJC Rihandnagar Show St. Joseph’s Church, Rihand Nagarcelebrated their patron’s feast on the 21st of April 2013. On thisauspicious occasion, the Eucharistic celebration began at 10.am. in the benignpresence of our honorable Rt. Rev. Bishop Ignatius Menezes, the ApostolicAdministrator of Allahabad, Rev. Fr. Francis Xavier and Rev. Fr. Santosh Kumar,the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Rihand Nagar. A procession was ledinto the Church with the traditional folk dance by the parishioners. A cordialwelcome was accorded in the introduction, where the qualities of our patronsaint were also enumerated. The Bishop, in the homily, appraised everyonepresent of the innumerable qualities imbibed in our Patron St. Joseph andrequested each and every member to live his or her life in the same manner. Itwas followed by a grand love feast with delicious lunch prepared by the parishionerswhich was enjoyed by everyone. “Let the blessing of our Patron St. Joseph bepoured down upon all the parishioners,” were the words of bishop at the end ofthe mass. order levitra online 5 th Apr,2013Jubilation in St. Mary’s on Golden and Silver Jubilee Show Jubilation in St. Mary’son Golden and Silver Jubilee Sr. Sylvia, Sr. Theophaneand Sr. Florence and Sr. Sabeena - the Golden Jubilarians, Sr. Anupa – the SilverJubilarian walked the aisle of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, along with their lovedones on 4th April 2013 at 11.00 am to thank the Almighty for His immensegoodness, love and fidelity that strengthened and inspired them to live thoseyears of life joyfully and meaningfully. The church was packed to almost fullcapacity with relatives, friends and well wishers who had come to share the joyof these women who responded to Christ’s call to mission with love, courage anddetermination.  The Eucharistic celebration was presided overby His Grace, Archbishop Albert D’Souza while His Excellencies, Bishop IgnatiusMenezes, Apostolic Administrator of Allahabad and Bishop Raphy Manjali, Bishopof Varanasi along with a large number of priests from far and near joined the celebration.In her introduction to Holy Mass, Sr. Celine CJ, thanked each of theJubilarians for her life of generous dedication and service. Bishop Ignatius Menezes inhis homily, congratulated them for answering the Christ’s call to the serviceof humanity, calling them ‘heavy weights’ who drew so many people from far andwide including three Bishops, to celebrate their special day. He reiterated theimportance of consecrated life in a world steeped in materialism, bringinglight and hope to many drowning in hopelessness and despair. Just beforeCommunion the Jubilarians renewed their Vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obediencethereby once again surrendering their entire lives to God. At the conclusion of theHoly Mass, Sr. Anupa, in her thanksgiving speech, expressed the heartfeltsentiments of joy and gratitude of all the Jubilarians , thanking veryspecially the bishops as well as all the Rev. Fathers, Sisters, friends, well-wishersand their own relatives for their gracious presence, prayers and blessings. After Holy Mass allgathered in St. Mary’s School hall, where the four were honoured with bouquets,garlands and flowers. The students of SMC greeted them with a beautiful songand a lovely and graceful dance. The celebration came to an end with a festivelunch. The diocese of Allahabad placeson record the services rendered by Sr. Florence in St. Mary’s ‘21’; Sr. Sylviain St. Mary’s 32, St. Mary’s 21 and St. Mary’s Kanpur; Sr. Theophane in St.Mary’s 32 and St. Mary’s 21; and Sr. Anupa in St. Mary’s Chunar, St. Mary’sGhoorpur, St. Mary’s 21 and St. Mary’s Kanpur.   order levitra online 14 th Mar,2013We have a Pope Show Yes! We have a Pope within a fortnight of Pope BenedictXVI’s resignation as Head of the Catholic Church on 28th February 2013. Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Buenos Aires, Argentina,emerged on 13th March 2013 from among the 115 cardinals to be the266th pontiff to lead the Catholic Church by taking the name Francis. Pope Francis is the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to be in the role. Born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio is one of the five children of Italian railway worker Mario JoseBergoglio and Regina Maria Sivori. Although lost a lung following a respiratoryillness in 1958, Jorge obtained degree in Chemistry and philosophy. Ordained in1969 as a Jesuit he taught literature, psychology and theology.  Jorge served as the provincial for Argentina from 1973 to 1979. Appointed auxiliary bishop of the diocese of Buenos Aires in1992 later became the Archbishop in 1998. Created Cardinal in 2001 by Pope JohnPaul II is believed to have been runner up at conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005. Known for a simple personal life style, the pontiff was also seen as champion of social justice. The Inauguration of the first non-European pope will take place with the solemn Euchariston the Feast of St. Joseph on March 19, 2013. order levitra online 4 th Mar,2013Surabhi Celebrated in Murdhwa Show Khrist Jyoti High School, Murdhwa, Renukoot celebrated their annual function ‘SURABHI’ on 3rd March 2013 where about 2000 people of the vicinity were present to witness the mega extravaganza. Rev. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, the dean of the Sonbhadra Zone was the Chief Guest and Mr. K.N. Pandey, General Manager, High Tec Carbon Plant, Renukoot, was the guest of honour. “Surabhi” a play on the life of a girl child in the present scenario left a number of audiences in tears, to see the fate of a girl child. The various dances too gave a very meaningful message to the audience. In their message, the chief guest and the guest honour made a point how a small primary school, now has become a big educational institution. They appreciated the contribution of Fr. Raymond, the Manager of the school, Sr. Rita, the Principal and the hardworking teachers. They urged the parents to cooperate with the school authority for the integral growth of their ward. Earlier on 16th Feb 2013, the Apostolic Administrator, Bishop Ignatius Menezes had Blessed and inaugurated the new block with seven classrooms. The cultural program scheduled for the day could not be held due to heavy rainfall. order levitra online 20 th Feb,2013Catechism Results Declared Show The Commission for Catechetics today (20th February) declared the results of the Diocesan Catechism Examinations held for the year 2013. Rev. Fr. Sunil Noronha, the director said that there were altogether 145 candidates who appeared in the examinations – X (61), XII (48) and VIII (36). The list of the toppers is as following: CLASS – XII Rank Name Parish/School % I Ashish Lyall St. Thomas Church, Kidwainagar, Kanpur 85% I Jenny Jose St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad 85% II Roselin Francis St. Xavier’s Church, Ashoknagar, Kanpur 82% II Merin Rose Mathew St. Mary’s Inter College, Allahabad 82% III Anumol Mathew St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad 80% III Sophia Jagan St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad 80% CLASS – X Rank Name Parish/School % I Rahil Masih St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad 81% II George Hill Holy Rosary Church, Pratapgarh 78% II Aleza Masih St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad 78% III Rohan Victor Simon St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad 70% III Jestin Joseph St. Patrick’s Church Allahabad 70% III Mahima Natasha Austin St. Mary’s Inter College Allahabad 70% CLASS – XIII Rank Name Parish/School % I Shruthy Elizabeth Jaimon St. Anthony’s Church Kanpur 96% II Ajesh Vincent St. Joseph’s Cathedral Allahabad 92% III Dheeraj Mathew Paulson St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad 88% III Tanya Alish Philips Mariampur school Kanpur 88% order levitra online 2 nd Mar,2013Johnfest Celebrated in SJIC Fatehpur Show ‘You must shine and guide the nation to a greater progress,” said Most Rev. Ignatius Menezes, the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad addressing the august gathering at St. John’s Inter College, Fatehpur during the Annual Concert – Johnfest 2013 on 2nd March 2013. Johnfest, the cultural programme was a blend of dances, music, drama, enactments, songs and miming. Each and every programme left the audience with a message to carry home. Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, principal St. Joseph’s College, Allahabad appreciated the quality of the programs and the discipline with which they were presented. He applauded the hard work of the staff and students. He invited the people to use the powers that God has given to us and to become healers in the society. The Administrator Bishop commended the quality of the program and applauded the efforts put in by the Manager Rev. Fr. Vipin D’Souza, principal Sr. Martha CJ, the Sisters, the staff and students. He called the parents and the children to shine and rise the build an unjust society. Honourable Mrs. Kanchan Verma IAS, District Magistrate of Fatehpur appreciating the programme said that only the well disciplined and well administrated schools can perform such quality programs. She also said that she was privileged to be invited to witness such an amazing and scintillating programs. The theme of patriotism was flowing in all the items of program. The children taught a lesson of being patriotic, respectable to parents, environment friendly, healers of society, etc. One could easily observe how the young minds were formed to acquire such values. The speciality of the program was that the children themselves anchored and conducted the entire program without any flaw or delay. The program came to an end with the call to respect the diverse culture of the nation through the Unity Dance which enthralled every one present there. order levitra online 8 th Feb,2013Sr. Loyola Rests in Peace Show Rev. Sr. Loyola, aged 78, belonging to the Congregation of Missionaries of Charity, Lucknow Region went to her heavenly abode at 9.00 pm on 7th February 2013 in Snehalaya Convent, Chandari, Kanpur. Born in the family of Mr. Patrus Ekka and Mrs. Josephine Ekka in 1935, Sr. Celestia originally belonged to Jharkhand from where she followed Christ and made her first profession in 1960. She was the 5th among the six children born to the Ekka family. She made her final commitment in 1966.  Sr. Loyola was involved in the family apostolate, catechetical work, school work, visiting the leprosy patients and in the prayer ministry in various parts of North India. She came to the diocese of Allahabad in 2012 where she breathed her last on 7th February 2013.  The mortal remains of Sr. Loyola will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Laalkurti, Kanpur after the funeral services in Snehalaya, Chandari at 3.00 pm on 8th February 2013 in the presence of their Regional Superior Sr. Anthea MC, the parish priest Rev. Fr. Sunil Noronha, many other priests, religious and laity. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace. order levitra online 13 th Feb,2013Sr. Celestia bids Adieu Show Rev. Sr. Celestia, aged 65, belonging to the Congregation of Ursulines of Mary Immaculate, Lucknow Province breathed her last at 3.00 am on 13th February 2013 in Mariampur Convent, Kanpur. Born in the family of Mr. Kuriakose and Mrs. Elizabeth in 1948, Sr. Celestia originally belonged to St. George’s Church, Vazhakulam in Kothamangalam diocese in Kerala. She was the third among the seven children born to the Kuriakose family. She embraced religious life at a young age of 17 in 1965 and completed all her formation in Ursuline Convent Kannur, Kerala. After her first vows in 1968 she completed her graduation from St. Anne’s College, Mangalore from where she did also her B. Ed at a later stage. She dedicated her total self to the Lord in 1973. From 1976, till her last breath she spent her life as an educationist in Allahabad, Varanasi and Bareilly dioceses. The diocese of Allahabad places on record the services rendered by her in Sacred Heart School Obra, St. Joseph’s School, Robertganj, Nirmala Convent School, Renukoot and St. Joseph’s Convent Chakeri. The mortal remains of Sr. Celestia will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Laalkurti, Kanpur after the funeral services in St. Joseph’s Convent, Chakeri at 3.00 pm on 14 th February 2013 in the presence of their Provincial Sr. Carol, the newly elected Provincial Sr. Rupa, the parish priest Rev. Fr. John Lobo, many other priests, religious and laity. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace. order levitra online 2 nd Feb,2013Two New Faces in CJ Show “Lord, I heard you calling me… I come to answer your call…” declared Sr. Tara CJ and Sr. Sheryl CJ, the newly professed nuns in the Congregation of Jesus (CJ), who after three years of intensive formation, committed their lives to the service of God and humanity by taking the three vows of poverty, chastity and obedience on 2nd February 2013 in the chapel of St. Mary’s Convent, 21 Thornhill Road, Allahabad in the presence of the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad Most Reverend Ignatius Menezes, Bishop Emeritus of Ajmer and Reverend Sr. Sumita Pinto the Provincial. Sisters Tara and Sheryl hailing from Uttarakhand and Kerala respectively belong to the Allahabad Province of the Congregation of Jesus. They have had their first year of formation, called Postulancy, in the Provincial house of Allahabad and the next stage of formation, called the Novitiate, in St. Joseph’s Novitiate House in Patna. At the end Sr. Tara thanked everyone for making the day memorable and beautiful for them. A short programme was organized after the mass in the dining hall where the ‘Brides’ cut the cake and felicitations were offered to them. We congratulate Sr. Tara and Sr. Sheryl and wish them happy and a fulfilling religious life. order levitra online 28 th Jan,2013SHALOM 2013 Celebrated in Anpara Show St. Francis Senior Secondary School, Anpara, celebrated its annual school concert “Shalom 2013” on Sunday, 27th January 2013 and felicitated Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of the Catholic diocese of Allahabad, on the occasion of his Episcopal Silver Jubilee. Engineer Murlidhar Bhagchandani, Chief General Manager of UPRVUNL, Anpara, was the Chief Guest while Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes presided over the function. The programme began with the special opening ceremony on “Shalom 2013”, where the students depicted the scene of St. Francis of Assisi working for world peace. The main attractions of the programme were: little stars on earth, books do speak, an ode to India, Mother’s love, Arabian nights, Yuge Yuge Sambhavami – Hindi skit & Ramapeer – a Rajastani dance. During the programme Bishop Isidore felicitated Mr. Jose KC & Mrs. Philomina Jose, for completing 25 years of service in the school. Fr. Jacob Bona felicitated the Bishop with a shawl & a silver memento. The president of the programme congratulated the management for organizing such a beautiful programme. In the concluding ceremony, the students invited each and every member present, to be the messengers of peace in the society, in the country and in the world at large. order levitra online 27 th Jan,2013Parish Feast Celebrated at Anpara Show St. Francis of Assisi Church, Anpara, celebrated the Episcopal silver Jubilee of Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the Bishop of Allahabad diocese, with a solemn thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration on the 26th of January 2013 at 4.30 p.m. The celebration started with a traditional chotanagpuri dance, in which twenty five women, dressed in colourful outfits, danced in unison and led the main celebrant, concelebrants and twenty four children who received the Sacrament of First Communion and fourteen children who received the sacrament of Confirmation to the altar. The senior girls from the parish led the Bible Procession dance, beautifully choreographed by Ms. Gracy Mary. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, the parish priest of St. Xavier’s Church, Robertsganj preached a meaningful homily on Good shepherd and also highlighted the main qualities of our Bishop as the Good Shepherd of the Diocese. He also invited each member in the parish to be a good shepherd in their own families, sharing and caring for each other. The melodious and well blended parish choir, led by Fr. Bona, created a prayerful atmosphere in the whole campus. Fr. Thomas Kumar, the Principal of St. Joseph’s School, Shaktinagar and Fr. Raymond D’Souza, the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Church ably assisted the Bishop during the celebration. The parish family also had organized a special felicitation programme after the Mass, in which, after cutting the jubilee cake, the Bishop was greeted with 25 garlands to mark the special occasion. Ms. Sudha Samuel read out a short felicitation address, highlighting the qualities of the Bishop. A short film on the life of our Bishop was the special attraction of the day. The parish choir also sang a beautiful & melodious jubilee song to greet the Bishop. The Bishop in his speech thanked the whole parish family for organizing such a meaningful liturgy and a beautiful felicitation programme. order levitra online 31 st Jan,2013Bishop Isidore Resigns Show His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of Bishop Isidore Fernandes, from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Allahabad, according to Canon Law 401 § 2. He has also appointed Bishop Ignatius Menezes, Bishop Emeritus of Ajmer, as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Allahabad. This ecclesiastical provision was made public in Rome on Thursday, 31st January, 2013, at noon local time, corresponding to 16:30 hours, Indian Standard Time. Bishop Isidore is the fourth bishop to resign from his office. Earlier Bishop Angelo Poli (1946), Bishop Raymond D’Mello(1969) and Bishop Alfred Fernandes (1975) too had resigned from the pastoral care of the diocese of Allahabad. The Apostolic Administrator will take change in February 2013. order levitra online 18 th Jan,2013Fr. Vijay Goes to His Heavenly Abode Show Rev. Fr. Vijayanand (Vincent Fernandes), the senior most priest of the Diocese of Allahabad went to his heavenly abode at 1.45 pm on 18th January, 2013 in Nazareth Hospital, Allahabad. Born on the 22nd of November 1925, to Anton Lawrence Fernandes and Maria Magdalena Fernandes of St. Paul’s Church, Dadar, Mumbai, Rev. Fr. Vijay completed his schooling from Holy Cross School, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Our Lady of Dolours School, Wadala, Antonio D’Souza High School, Byculla, Mumbai and St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. In 1948, he joined the Diocese of Allahabad to serve as a missionary priest. After his entire formation in St. Joseph’s Seminary, Allahabad, he was ordained by Rt. Rev. Leonard Raymond on March 19, 1955. He had been the assistant and substitute at Assumption Church, Dostpur; St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad; and the Parish Priest at Pachmarhi; and substitute in various missions. He obtained a Sangeet Prabhakar Degree in 1962. His entire life was dedicated to evangelization through music. He had been the Director of Sangeet Sadhana Mandir Naukuchiatal, Mussourie and Pachmarhi for almost five decades training thousands of personnel in music. His musical compositions are found in ‘Mukta Maala’ under the name ‘vijeti’. The mortal remains of Fr. Vijay will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Rajapur, Allahabad at 4.00 pm on 19th January, 2013 in the presence of the Bishop Isidore Fernandes, Vicar General Rev. Fr. K.K. Antony, CJ Provincial Sr. Sumitha, priests, religious and laity of the diocese and neighbouring diocese. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace. order levitra online 26 th Jan,2013Less Fortunate Celebrate the Republic Day Show DDWS Allahabad celebrated republic day at the Childline Centre in Allahabad and in other 17 centres with children from the slums who do not have an opportunity to attend any school and salute a flag with national anthem sung by a choir. Fr. Deepak, the director of DDWS hoisted the flag. The children prayed for the nation and sung patriotic songs. There was lot of joy on these faces while shouting slogans in praise and honor of the nation that has done very little in promising a secure future. order levitra online 27 th Jan,2013Sr. Ester UMI Breathes Her Last Show Rev. Sr. Ester, aged 84, belonging to the Congregation of Ursulines of Mary Immaculate, Lucknow Province did not see the sun on 27th Jan 2013 as she breathed her last at 5.45 am in Mariampur Hospital, Kanpur. Hailing originally from Karimannoor parish in Kothamangalam diocese in Kerala, Sr. Ester was the youngest among the four children of Mr. Joseph Michael and Mrs. Mary. She left her home to commit her life to the Lord even before the Independence of India in 1947. Though she had her formation and initial years as a religious in Kannur, Kerala, after her final vows she moved to Mariampur Convent Kanpur in 1957. Thereafter, till her last breath she spent her life as an educationist in Allahabad, Lucknow and Bareilly dioceses. The diocese of Allahabad places on record the services rendered by her in all the communities in Kanpur and in Obra. The mortal remains of Sr. Ester will be buried in the Christian Cemetery, Laalkurti, Kanpur at 12.30 pm on Monday 28th January, 2013 in the presence of their Mother General Sr. Elvira, Provincial Sr. Carol, Vicar General Rev. Fr. K.K. Antony, parish priest Rev. Fr. Alex D’Souza, many other priests, religious and laity. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace. order levitra online 25 th Jan,2013Medley - 2013 Celebrated in Obra Show Medley 2013 - the annual extravaganza was held in the school premises of Sacred Heart School, Obra on 25th January 2013. On this occasion the school felicitated and honoured Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad Diocese as it is his Silver Jubilee year as a Bishop. His Excellency, addressing the gathering compared the school to a garden where small children are young saplings and teachers as gardeners who nurture the saplings into flowering and fruit bearing trees. He then appealed to the parents to support the school in bringing out the best in their children. Sr. Kiran, the principal, welcomed and introduced the chief guest Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes and the guest of honour Er. Pranavesh Chaudhary, CGM, UPRVUNL Obra at the very outset of the cultural evening. The cultural programme unfolded a scintillating array of presentations comprising of dance, music, drama, enactments, and songs and miming. The essence of the programme was to show the relevance of God’s presence in our lives. The programme also reflected the need of virtuous and aesthetic people amidst a consumerist and digital world of today, who are the real “Pillars for the sky”. In a nutshell the programme was an amalgamation of colour, spirit, rhythm, vibrancy, virtue and goodness. The programme was overwhelmingly applauded by the invited guests, dignitaries and parents who came in large number to witness Medley 2013. order levitra online 11 th Jan,2013Blankets Distributed in the City of Allahabad Show Allahabad City continued to shiver under a prolonged cold spell and the night temperature kept dipping to near freezing point. There was countless number of people struggling through the night with little scope for survival in the open. Fr James Francis, Fr Archibald D’Silva and Fr Deepak D'Souza thought that something out to be done without delay. By the evening of the 8th of January there were 501 new blankets ready for distribution, procured with the generosity of many people. Fr Louis Mascarenhas, Fr Anand John K V, Fr Vincent Pereira and Fr Francis Xavier J volunteered to join us in the distribution which would take place after 11:15 at night. Huddling in twos and threes under torn blankets, pieces of cardboard or plastic wrapping and crouching near the embers of a burnt-out fire was a city of homeless men, women and children. Though only a part of Civil Lines could be covered, the group of seven had to return at 1.30 a.m. after the stock of blankets ran out. The newspapers showed that the temperature had dipped to - 0.3 (0.3 degrees below freezing) at night when the blankets were being distributed. The gratitude in their unspoken words and their urgency to use the blanket told us that we were on the right track.  The blankets were distributed to every homeless person along the roads marked in BLACK in Allahabad Civil Lines and surrounding areas. order levitra online 27 th Dec,2012Fun and Frolic Marks the Christmas Mela Show The Catholics in Allahabad shared the joy of the Birth of Jesus,Christmas, by organizing a three-day long Christmas Mela in the St. JosephCollege grounds yesterday afternoon. The Mela was inaugurated by Most. Rev.Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad. The Christmas Mela-2012 was organizedby the Catholic Diocese of Allahabad under the guidance of this Bishop. Rev.Fr. Louis Mascarenhas, Principal of St. Joseph's College and Rev. Fr. J.B.Castelino shouldered the responsibility of convening the Christmas Mela whichwill last for three days till the 27th from 2 to 8 pm daily. People flocked towards theMela grounds in thousands and enjoyed every item of the Mela. Everyone was seenwith lots of gusto and enthusiasm. The people of different faiths came together to celebrateChristmas. They visited St. Joseph's Cathedral and prayed for blessings ontheir families. The parents brought their children along to spend their winter vacation fruitfully. The people not only enjoyed different recipes but also participated in different games. The children spent most of their time on giantwheels, dragon wheels, disco wheels and on the back of camels. Children enjoyedthe dance of the Santa Claus, placed at the entrance of St. Joseph's College.Everyone paid homage to the New Born Jesus found in the crib at the entrance ofthe Mela grounds. The place which attracted the most crowd was the BibleExhibition which was depicted colourfully to show the life and message ofChrist. There were beautiful cultural programmes at the Mela. All the programmes brought out the life and teachings of Christ. Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the Bishop gave a thought provoking Christmas Message and invited everyone to stand for justice and peace in the society. The cultural committee headed by Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira presented various dances, group songs and skits with the help of Maria Sadan,Nazareth Hospital, Snehashray, St. Mary's College, St. Mary's Convent, St.Antony's School and College, St. Xavier's Minor Seminary and Bethany School.The magic show by Ravinder Kumar added entertainment to the programme. Hesensitized the people regarding the hazards of tobacco in life. He suggested various ways to prevent cancer. The laughter show by Irfan Jafree amused the crowd. order levitra online Give me back the joy of your salvation, sustain in me a generous spirit. Give me back the joy of your salvation, sustain in me a generous spirit. We are a community of people loving each other and our Lord. Be completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love. We are a community of people loving each other and our Lord. Be completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love. Links INTERNATIONAL NATIONAL OFFICES REGIONAL OFFICES REGIONAL DIOCESES PARISHES CONGREGATIONS SCHOOLS Popular Tags HISTORY RELIGIOUS COMISSIONS ENGAGEMENTS PARISHES BISHOP COMMUNITY POPE FCS EVENTS CIRCULARS BISHOP'S CIRCULARS © 2018 All Rights Reserved By, Diocese Of Allahabad Designed & Maintained By: