Vol. XXXIV April 2014 No.3

_________________________________________________________________

Easter Greetings:

Archbishop William D’Souza, SJ and the Archdiocesan Clergy wish each and every one of you the joy, peace, hope, love and every blessings on this Easter Season: Every prayerful and good wishes too for a new life in the Risen Lord.

Archbishop’s Program

April

08 : Education Council Meeting

09 AM : Finance Committee Meeting

PM : Consult

10 AM : Recollection

PM : Chrism Mass

11 – 13 : Office

14 – 16 : Visit to Communities in Patna

17 – 19 : Triduum (Silence – No appointments)

19 : Bankipur – Easter Vigil

20 : Kurji – Easter Morning Mass

22 : Gulni – Boys’ Hostel Blessing

23 – 24 : Office

25 : Barbigha – Foundation stone of School Building

26 : Holy Cross Convent, Balupar

27 AM : Avila Convent – Silver Jubilee of Sr. Tanisha AC

PM : Krus Veer Animators’ Meeting

28 AM : Sewa Kendra – Girls’ Coaching group

PM : Leave for Bangalore

29 – 30 : Bangalore CBCI + CCBI Standing Committee Meeting

May

01 – 02 : CCBI + CCBI Standing Committee Meeting (Contd.)

03 – 05 : Mangalore – Home Visit

06 – 10 : Mumbai

14 : Ordination – Dn. Augustine & Dn. Jeybalan

18 : Khagaul - Confirmation

18 – 20 : Seminarians’ Get-together

22 : Muzaffarpur – Milan Samaroh

24 : Atmadarshan

26 – 31 : Bangalore – United Christian Prayer for India

Archbishop William took time and visited Barbigha, Sheikhpura, Sikandra, Gulni, Roh, Rajgir, Gaya, Bodh Gaya and Nawada in the third and fourth weeks in March in spite of his other important engagements in Patna. In the beginning of April he was in Barh and has planned out visiting the communities in Patna before and after Easter. He already had a couple of meetings like the Education Council meetings, Finance committee meeting, consult etc before the monthly recollection and the Chrism Mass on 10 April. He has a lot of engagements and travel schedule lined up during the rest of April and in the month of May.

People, Places and Events:

New Provincial Team: Sr. Mary Pakkiam, Sr. Bina Stanis and Sr. Mercy Francis have been elected as members of the new MMS Provincial Team for North India Province of the Medical Mission Sisters and have taken over their responsibility on 02 March, 2014. Sr. Mary Pakkiam is the Province representative to the Church at large and in particular for the Maharashtra/Goa/Delhi region and her residence will be in Pune. Sr. Mercy Francis is responsible for Bihar Region and her official address is Medical Mission Sisters, Deepanjali, Kurji Holy Family Hospital, Patna 800 010. Her email id is: mmsmercy@gmail.com

While we joyfully welcome and extend our prayerful good wishes to the new team, we greatly appreciate and sincerely thank the outgoing District Coordinator Sr. Rowena Miranda, her collaborators and all the Medical Mission Sisters for their dedicated service to the Church in Patna.

B.Ed College at Jehanabad: The proposal to start a B.Ed college at Jehanabad has been under consideration for some time and after due consultations and deliberations, the proposal has been approved. To study the feasibility of establishing the College a committee has been appointed by the Archbishop. Fr. Joseph Raj is the convener with Fr. Tom Perumalil SJ, Fr. Louis Prakash SJ, Fr. Anthony Osta, Fr. Robert Kumar and Fr. Sebastian A as its members. Fr. Tom Karthanam SJ and Sr. Doris AC are the advisors to the committee. They have already done quite a bit of job on the project and have come out with a master plan of the building and campus. Further details are awaited and if everything goes well, we hope to start the College by 2016.

Committee for Construction: To coordinate the construction works in the Archdiocese, the Archbishop has appointed a committee with Fr. Andrews Raja as its convener. The other members of the committee are Fr. Jose Edavazhy, Fr. Prem Prakash, Fr. Joseph Raj and Mr. Jacob Josephat. The committee is to visit the location for new constructions, design, prepare the estimate, suggest the contractor etc and put the proposal to the Archbishop for final approval and execution. You are hereby informed that henceforth all the proposals for new constructions in the Archdiocese will have to go through this committee before the same is approved.

Fr. Joachim Thakur has taken charge as Administrator of the Archbishop’s House on 1 April while Fr. Thomas George moved over to Fatuha and was installed as Parish Priest of Fatuha on 6 April by Fr. James Rosario. After a touching farewell by the people at Fatuha, they accompanied Fr. Augustine Mundoli to Masaurhi as he took charge of the place on the same day.

Youth Commission Reports: Five AICUFers from Patna Archdiocese participated in the Dumka AICUF day celebrations held from 14 to 15 March at St. Xavier’s College, Sahibganj. Harnaut Parish level Parivartan training program was conducted from 21 to 23 March in which there were 60 participants. Sr. Vimala and Fr. Prabhu Das too accompanied the trainees in the program. Bihar State AICUF regional advisors’ meeting was held at Youth Center, Chakaram on 25 March to discuss and plan out programs to strengthen the AICUF movement in all the dioceses of Bihar. The participants also deliberated on ways and means to spread the Parivartan movement to all parts of Bihar. Youth directors from Purnea, Bettiah, Buxar and Patna were present for the meeting. Parivartan Office Bearers’ Training Program was conducted at the Youth Center at Chakaram from 28 to 31 March. There were 140 delegates from Jehanabad, Sikandra, Rajgir, Harnaut, Maner and Gulni Parivartan centers. Fr. Christu Raj was the chief guest while Fr. Kuldeep Kumar and Fr. Joachim Thakur were special invitees. Fr. Peter Ladis and his Law students from the Chanakya Law College, Fr. Philip Manthara SJ and Fr. Deepak D’Mello SJ were some of the important resource persons for the program. AICUF+AYCM Commission meeting was held at youth centre, Chakaram on 3 March 2014 to plan out for the AYCM camp to be held in the month of June 2014.

Gaya: On 29 March 52 parishioners led by the Parish Priest, Fr. Andrews Thambi went on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Bandel. Since the following day was a Sunday, the pilgrims participated in the Holy Eucharist at the side altar. Later they lit candles and prayed to the Blessed Mother in front of her miraculous statue kept in the chapel upstairs. The pilgrims then went to Kolkata to the tomb of Mother Teresa and offered prayers for the entire parish. They were greatly blessed by the pilgrimage and returned with deeper commitment to witness their Faith.

Seven of the Junior Clergy and two of our Deacons spent half a day together with the Archbishop on 18 March at the Archbishop’s House. There was positive interaction and constructive sharing on the challenges and concerns that came up in the scientific survey findings. As a result of the sharing, they have decided to have regular sharing sessions for a day – at least four times a year – and have chosen Fr. Prem Prakash to organize and coordinate the gathering. Later all of them attended the two-day workshop at Navjyoti Niketan, on the Social Teaching of the Church monitored by the CBCI secretary for Peace, Justice and Development, Fr. Charles Irudayam.

All the Regents had a day of recollection on 5-6 April at the Mokama Matha Pilgrim center. The recollection was directed by Fr. Sebastian SJ from Barbigha Parish.

Fr Devasia Chirayil went on 28 March for a short holiday at home and was back on 8 April. He seems to be much refreshed and relaxed. He says on his return that mobile phone is not a necessity of life and he now knows that we are tension-free at least for ten days if we do not have one. This is from his own experience since he had forgotten to take his mobile phone when he left Patna. So nobody disturbed him and he could take enough rest without any disturbance of the phone-ringing.

Fr. Devasia Mattathilani participated in the Episcopal ordination of Bishop Alex Vadakumthala of Kannur Diocese on 23 March and then had a week’s holidays at home before he went to Delhi to attend a couple of meetings there. He was back in Patna on 6 April after attending the meetings.

Fr. Jacob Muthuplackal was in the hospital from 25 March to 28 March with stomach upset and giddiness. Fr. Joseph Mattathilani has been visiting his doctors since 5 April to rectify some digestive and dental problems. Fr. Bhagyaraj met his doctor at Kurji Holy Family on 9 April to take care of similar health disorders while Fr. Peter Ladis was in the same hospital on 10 and 11 April for the surgical removal of an abscess he had at the right lower side of his abdomen since some time.

The Chrism Mass this year too was held at the Queen of the Apostles Church, Kurji on Thursday 10 April 2014 at 5:00 p.m. More than 65 priests from the Archdiocese concelebrated the Holy Eucharist with Archbishop William D’Souza SJ as the main celebrant. Soon after the Holy Eucharist, the participants shared refreshments and later the Presbyterium had a fellow-ship meal together with the major superiors and their delegates.

Prior to the Chrism Mass, the clergy in the Archdiocese had half a day of recollection and sharing at the Archbishop’s House. Fr. Susai Raj SJ led us into prayerful reflection on “the joy of Priesthood and the unity of Presbyterium”. He based his talks on different homilies of Pope Francis, on the findings of the scientific survey of the Archdiocese and on the 2014 Lenten Pastoral letter of the Archbishop. We extend our sincere thanks to Fr. Susai Raj SJ for his inspiring talks.

Information:

The Archdiocesan Formation In-Charge, Fr. James Shekhar informs that Seminarians’ get-together is scheduled to be held at St. Mary’s Seminary, Chakaram from 18 (evening) to 21 (evening) in May and the “Milan Samaroh” of the Seminarians from the four dioceses of Patna, Muzaffarpur, Buxar and Bettiah, with the Jesuit Scholastics will be from 22 to 24 May at Masihi Gurukul, Muzaffarpur. All our seminarians are expected to be present for both the programs.

Youth commission informs that separate summer camp will be conducted for the Youth of Nalanda, Magadh and Gaya deaneries in the months of May and June. Gaya deanery will have the camp from 23 May (evening) to 25 May evening at Jeevan Sangham, Bodh Gaya, while Nalanda deanery will have the camp at Biharsharif Parish from 29 May (evening) to 31 May (evening). Magadh deanery will be having the camp at Nawada Parish from 13 June (evening) to 15 June (evening). Kindly motivate and encourage the youth of your place to participate in the summer camp.

Tripolia School of Nursing: Application forms for General Nursing & Midwifery and ANM courses will be available at the office of Tripolia School of Nursing from 20 March to April 20. Fee for the form and prospectus for GNM is Rs.300/- while for ANM application form will be Rs. 200/- For further details contact Tripolia School of Nursing, Tripolia Social Service Hospital, Gulzarbagh P.O., Patna 800 007, Bihar. Contact No. 09472034517, 09430511600

St. Xavier’s College of Education, Patna is giving out application forms for admission to B.Ed course for academic session 2014-2015 from the college office between 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon from 31 March to 17 April 2014.

Kurji Holy Family Hospital School of Nursing is inviting application from 17-24 years age-group with IA/ISc/ICom examination pass in First or Second division having pass marks in English, for admission to ANM training (2 Years – Hindi Medium). Prospectus and Application forms may be obtained from the Nursing School office from 07 April 2014 on payment of Rs. 350/- The last date of submitting the application is 30 May 2014. The candidates who are awaiting their Senior Secondary Board examination results may apply, but their admission will be subject to clearance before the interview. For details contact The Principal, School of Nursing, Kurji Holy Family Hospital, Sadaquat Ashram P.O., Patna 800 010. Phone: 0612-2274727.

Jyoti Bhawan, Mokama informs that various training programmes are being organized at Jyoti Bhawan in the coming months. Vocation camp (Jeevan Pravesh) for boys will be from 23 to 28 April while Christian leadership in the Church and Society (seminar for laity) will be from 01 to 05 May. Class 7 students will have Catechetical camp & Leadership Seminar from 23 to 28 May. Faith Formation seminar for High School (Class 8 and 9) students will be from 2 to 6 June. Training for the Catechism teachers is scheduled from 9 to 14 June and Leadership Seminar for Parish Council members will be from 23 to 27 June. Contribution for all the above mentioned program is only Rs.30/- from each participant.

Vol. XXXIV February – March 2014 No.2

Archbishop (Emiritus) Most Rev. Benedict J Osta, SJ died in Kurji Holy Family Hospital, Patna, on 30 January 2014 and his mortal remains were laid to rest at XTTI Jesuit cemetery on 01 February 2014. We salute you dear “Swamijee” for all that you have been and have done for the development and growth of the Church in Bihar. Though we miss you as you are not with us physically, we know that you are in Heaven with the Good Shepherd interceding for us for continued blessings on the People in Bihar. (Detailed report attached)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Archbishop’s Program

March

01 – 02 : Centenary Celebration – St. Albert’s College

03 AM : Shahpur – Golden Jubilee of Sr. Prerita CJ

PM : Get-together with Priests

4 AM : Eucharistic Celebration

5 : Bankipur – Ash Wednesday

7 : Meeting with Gonzaga Sisters

8 – 9 : Aurangabad – School Annual Day

10 – 15 : Office

15 PM : Tripolia – Graduation

18 AM : Fairfield – Mass at Assumption Convent

PM : Meeting with the Junior Clergy

19 – 20 : Workshop of Social Teaching of the Church – PJD Commission

21 : Barbigha, Sheikhpura

22 : Sikandra

23 : Gulni

25 : Roh, Rajgir

29 : Gaya, Bodh Gaya

31 : Nawada

April

01 : Nawada

02 -04 : Barh

Archbishop William with His Eminence Telesphore Cardinal P. Toppo as the main celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration, conducted the funeral services of Archbishop (Emeritus) Benedict J Osta SJ on 01 February evening. The same night he went to Mokama and was the main celebrant for the Shrine feast on 02 February. He went to Pala, Kerala on 03 February and participated in the XXXI Plenary assembly of the CBCI. He visited some of the families of our Priests, stayed with Fr. Xavier Varghese overnight on 12 February, before he returned to Patna on13 February. On 14 February, he went to Chuhari (Bettiah) and ordained Deacon Mukti Clarence SJ on 15 February. He returned to Patna on 16 February and had a couple of meetings with the Grupo India Benefactors from Italy. He was at Rajgir for the Milan Samaroh and commissioning of BCC animators on 22 February. He was the main celebrant for the Parish Day celebrations at Harnaut on 23 February. He travelled by train to Basauni on 24 February. On 26 February, he was at Nawada with the consulters for a meeting and returned to Patna on 27 February. He was the main celebrant at the thirtieth-day Memorial Eucharistic Celebration for late Archbishop Benedict on 28 February 2014 soon after which he left for Ranchi for the centenary celebration at St. Albert’s College. On his return on 3 March he was at Shahpur to wish Sr. Prerita CJ on the occasion of her Golden Jubilee celebration and came back to Patna by the same evening. He was busy with visitors who came to wish him on 4 March ahead of his Birthday as this year his birthday, 05 March coincided with Ash Wednesday. On that day, Archbishop William was the main celebrant at the Morning Mass at Bankipur. He went to Aurangabad on 8 March for the School function and returned to Patna on 9 March. He has planned visitation of the parishes during Lent apart from the other important engagements in Patna itself.

People, Places and Events:

Harnaut Parish: on 23 February Harnaut Parish celebrated Parish Day with much fanfare. The Archbishop was the main celebrant for the Holy Eucharist. He was led by the Parish band-party from the priests’ house to the school hall where the Sunday Mass was held. He was welcomed with arati, Tika, washing of hands and garland. During the Holy Eucharist he administered the sacrament of confirmation to 45 people including children with a crowd of about 600 people as participants. Soon after, one hour cultural program was staged by different groups of the Parish followed by a fellow-ship meal. The people themselves contributed to meet the expense of the celebration. Earlier on February 13, Loyola School, Harnaut, celebrated the school annual day during which its first School magazine “Arshjyoti” was released. The Samachar extends our congratulations to the Parish Priest Fr. Jose Edavazhy, Fr. Prabhudas, Sr. Annie, their collaborators and the parishioners for both the meaningful celebrations.

Fr. Christuraj after his Sabbatical, returned to Patna on 6 February. The Archbishop has appointed him as teacher at St. Mary’s Minor Seminary and Co-pastor of St. Mary’s Church Chakaram with immediate effect. With Fr. Mariamlal, he will also promote Basic Christian Communities in the Archdiocese. The appointment has been effective from the third week of February.

Fr. Alex V the Director of Krus Veer and the Krus Veer Animators had a meeting on January 12 at Hilsa for an evaluation of the various Krus Veer activities during the year 2013. He is now attending a renewal program at Atmadarshan. The new Director of Krus Veer, Fr. Asit Lakra will take charge in May 2014.

Fr. Mariam Lal Reports: Five days of BCC training program of the third phase at the Bijhan level was held at Bokaro City Parish from 31 January to 4 February 2014. There were 100 participants for the program including the nine participants under the leadership of Fr. Mariam Lal from the Archdiocese. Sr. Christine HC and her team conducted the program. It was indeed a very enriching experience for all the participants.

Barh: At the invitation from Fr. A. Raja, a free eye-camp was conducted by Dr. Rajeev Prasad at Barh Parish campus for the parishioners on 9 March 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in which more than 350 people had free eye check-up. 300 of them were given free spectacles and 50 were advised to go for cataract operation with minimum charge next month.

Six Jesuit novices from Lucknow were in Barh from 04 February to 08 March for village experience. They in 3 groups of two each stayed in six villages for 15 days each, teaching catechism to the children, meeting and listening to the villagers. The Samachar express our gratitude to Fr. Vimal SJ (Patna) and to Fr. Anil Kispotta SJ (Delhi) who accompanied them during this program.

Barbigha: A short BCC training program was held at Barbigha Parish on 16 February. After enthroning of the Bible, Fr. Mariam Lal introduced BCC to the 60 participants from the villages. He explained the seven steps of the BCC meetings and the urged participants to be effective witnesses of our faith-experience through BCCs in the village.

Jehanabad: The Charismatic team under the leadership of Fr. Satyaprakash Arisseril SJ conducted a three day retreat at Jehanabad from 7 March to 9 March. Apart from the parishioners, there were about 50 people from Gandharmatt and yet some 10 people from Sonabigha, Gaya for the retreat.

Rajgir Mission organized for the first time a commissioning of BCC animators during a Milan Samaroh of 29 villages on 22 February. About 500 people were present for the program. The theme of the Samaroh was “Life of Communion: Faith and witness based on Word of God”. The program began with a procession from the main road to the Church. Archbishop William was the main celebrant for the Holy Eucharist during which he commissioned the BCC animators. A short cultural program by the children of the place followed after which all present shared a fellow-ship meal. We express our sincere congratulations to Fr. P. Singarayan and his team for so beautifully organizing the program.

Fr. Kuldeep was on a short home visit from 20 to 26 February, and Fr. Thomas Cheruvally who is on holidays is expected to be back in Patna by the third week of March 2014. Fr. Jose Chirackal is attending a renewal program at Bangalore. Fr. Thomas Olikathotty went on a short home visit on 28 February and Fr. Dominic Peter rushed to Chennai to take care of an academic intricacy.

All the Regents in the Archdiocese had two more monthly recollections after the one they had in the month of January this year. The first was at Stephen’s Church, Danapur and directed by Fr. Peter Ignatius, S. J. on 8-9 February. Sr. Alka SND and Sr. Beena RA also had a sharing session with the Brothers on “Gender sensitivity’. The second was on 8-9 March and directed by Fr. Sebastian Puthenpura. They were staying at Sewa Kendra while the talk and Holy Eucharist was at Prerana Chapel. Fr. Sebastian gave them the talks based on his priestly experience, while Fr. Anthony Panangatt heard their confession and was the main celebrant for the Holy Eucharist. We express our sincere thanks to Fr. Peter Ignatius, Sr. Alka SND, Sr. Beena RA, Fr. Sebastian Puthenpura and Fr. Anthony Panangatt for lending their share in the formation of our Seminarians. We gratefully acknowledge the love and concern of Fr. James Shekhar, the In-Charge of formation and his associates, who organize such programs for our Seminarians.

The request of Bro. Lawrence from Kerala and Bro. Lourdu from Tamil Nadu to join the Archdiocese has been accepted by the Archbishop. Bro. Lawrence will be going for his Philosophy studies in Varanasi, while Bro. Lourdu will be doing his regency in the Archdiocese.

Fr Devasia Chirayil had a cataract removal from his left eye on 18 February at Dr. JS Agarwal’s clinic. The operation was successful and he is now at the Archbishop’s House with a new pair of glasses. In his own words “I gratefully appreciate Archbishop William for his TLC, the Fathers at the Archbishop’s House - for their MLC (Maternal Loving Care), to my brother-priests and well wishers for their BLC (Brotherly Loving Care) and to the staff at the Archbishop’s House for their FLC (Fraternal Loving Care) during and after the operation”. He may need some more of the same later, he says, since he is to have a similar operation on his right eye within a couple of months. Since 17 February Fr. Jose Mattathilani has been staying at Patliputra and taking care of the pastoral needs. He will continue to be there till Fr. Devasia returns from a short home visit he has planned from 26 March to 10 April.

Daughters of St. Joseph, the Worker (DSJ) who have been in the Archdiocese for the past four years looking into the feasibility of establishing a house in Patna are moving out to a house purchased at Coimbatore by their founder Most Rev. Joseph Pastor Neelankavil CMI. The three Sisters and the three postulants will be leaving Patna on 13 March. The Archdiocese greatly appreciates their contribution to the Church during their stay both in Patliputra and Maner and extends our prayerful wishes for God’s continued blessings on Sr. Tresa John DSJ and her companions in the new place.

MMI Fathers Fr. Wilfred, Fr. Paul Raj and Fr. Vincent after being in the Archdiocese for pastoral experience have returned to Meerut. While Fr. Wilfred was in Basauni for about two years, Fr. Paul Raj was in Sikandra for about a year, and Fr. Vincent was in Biharsharif for six months. We appreciate your generosity for being with us and extend our good wishes in your new assignment.

Deacon Augustine Hembrom is back in the Archdiocese after a month’s physiotherapy treatment at Rampur Hat, and he says he is almost completely cured of his ailment.

Fr. James George was having chest pain since a week. It is reported that though during the day the pain would persist, it diminished at night. He went in for the usual tests and an E.C.G. and the doctors said that there seems to be nothing serious. He was in Patna with Fr. A. Thambi on 6 March to meet and get a second opinion from the cardiologists in PMCH. The doctors here too could not find anything serious with his heart. But he is advised to go for a TMT and further investigation. Do keep him in your prayers.

Sr. Louisa FSAG and Sr. Josephine Mary Stella FSAG both general Councilors of Gonzaga Sisters from Pondicherry were In Patna to look into the possibilities of starting a unit of their congregation in the Archdiocese. They arrived here on 7 March and the same day they accompanied by Fr. Christuraj, visited Jehanabad, Masaurhi, Gandharmatt and Gaya. They seem to be keen on establishing a unit at Gandharmatt. We extend our hearty welcome and prayerful support as you plan to be in the Archdiocese in the near future.

Archbishop Benedict J Osta SJ remembered:

On the occasion of the 30^th day of Archbishop Benedict’s departure, a memorial Mass was organized at Queen of the Apostles Church, Kurji on February 28, 2014. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J. was the main celebrant with 26 priests as concelebrants and about 800 people including religious and laity as participants. Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J. lit the candles and paid floral tribute before a well decorated portrait of late Archbishop Benedict, placed at the portico of the church. After the priests, Religious and the faithful present also showered flowers on the portrait, the portrait was carried into the Church in a procession. Fr. Sushil Sah, S.J. a novice when Archbishop Benedict was the Novice Master at XTTI gave the homily. Sharing his personal experiences with the Archbishop, he said that Archbishop Osta had a great devotion to Our Lady and fostered the same in his novices. His love for people was very evident during the great flood of 1975. He kept all his novices close to his heart till his death. He added that the late Archbishop was a man of letters. He wrote a number of hymns and two plays in Hindi. After the Holy Eucharist Archbishop William D’Souza, S.J., cutting the ribbon and placing a portrait of the late Archbishop in the Parish Community hall, declared that henceforth, the hall would be known as Archbishop Benedict J. Osta Memorial Community Hall, Thereafter all were served tea and snacks sponsored by Mr. Glen Galstaun, the director of St. Dominic Savio School, Patna.

Information:

St. Xavier’s College of Education, Patna: Application forms for admission to B.Ed course for academic session 2014-2015 will be given out from the college office between 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon from 31 March to 17 April 2014. Candidates with at least 50% (Total aggregate) marks and above in the Bachelor’s/Master’s degree with at least two school subjects (English, Hindi, Mathematics, Botany+ Zoology, Physics+Chemistry, History, Civics, Economics and Geography) at the graduation level are eligible to apply> Forms can also be downloaded from the college website: www.sxcepatna.edu.in. The cost of the application form+ tests is Rs. 750/- (Rupees Seven Hundred Fifty only). Filled up forms need to be submitted at the college office. Entrance Test will be on 4 May, while the interviews and Group discussions will be on 05-07 May. 2014. List of selected candidates will be published on 15 May and the dates of admission will be from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on 29-30 May 2014. Classes will commence on 03 July 2014. For details contact St. Xavier’s College of Education, Digha Ghat P.O. Patna 800 011 or the college website.

College of Nursing, Kurji Holy Family Hospital is starting the new session of Basic BSc. Nursing Course (4 Years) and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing (2 years after GNM) from 01 July 2014. Application forms for admission are available from 01 March to 15 May 2014 from the College office (8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.) and on the college website: www.kujiholyfamilyhospital.org.com/bsc.htm. The cost of the application form for each of these courses is Rs. 500/- In case the application is taken from the website, you will have to send Rs. 500/- by cash or DD drawn in favour of KHFHS College of Nursing payable at Patliputra Branch, Patna with the filled up application. Pease note that eligibility for Post B.Sc Nursing is GNM Pass and for Basic B.Sc Nursing course is +2 or its equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English subjects having minimum 45% aggregate marks.

The Chrism Mass this year is scheduled to be held at Queen of the Apostles Church, Kurji on Thursday 10 April 2014 at 5:00 p.m.

MOST REV BENEDICT J OSTA, S. J.

Born 15 August 1931

Entered the Society of Jesus 20 June 1950

Ordained 09 June 1963

Final Vows 15 August 1976

Episcopal Ordination 21 June 1980

Appointed as Archbishop 11 July 1999

Heavenly Abode 30 January 2014

Archbishop Emeritus Benedict J Osta, SJ was a spiritual person who loved God, the Church and his people of Bihar. His life radiated the love of Jesus. Through his leadership and administrative skills he built the Church of Bihar and contributed much to the growth and development of the State by promoting educational and health services in the rural areas and made these affordable for the Dalits and other marginalized and poor/weaker sections of the society. This true shepherd of his people has now entered into the glory of his Master.

“Swamiji” as he was affectionately and respectfully addressed, was born as a beloved son of John Osta and Anna Osta, 16 years before, but on the day and month on which India would become an independent nation. He had his primary education in St. Stanislaus Middle school, Bettiah and High School education in KR High School, Bettiah. After his novitiate and Juniorate in St. Stanislaus College, Sitagarh, he did his intermediate studies in St. Xavier’s College, Ranchi and B.A. in Rajasthan University, Jaipur. His Philosophy study was in De Nobili College, Pune and Theology in Est Baden College, Indiana, USA. He also did M.A. in Sanskrit from the University of Chicago and Journalism from Marquette University, USA. The tertianship in Sitagarh completed his Jesuit formation..

He was Socius to the Novice Master from 1967 to 1969, Novice Master from 1969 to 1976 and Vicar General of Patna Diocese from 1976 to 1980. He was consecrated as the Bishop of Patna on 21 June 1980. “Well done, good and faithful servant, you have been faithful in a few things, I will put you in charge of many more things; enter into the joy of the master” (Mt 25:21). These words of the Gospel became literally true in 1999 when his leadership of the Patna diocese was given recognition by the universal Church, with the elevation of Patna as an Archdiocese and Bishop Benedict J. Osta as its first Archbishop; Bettiah, Bhagalpur, Buxar (bifurcated from Patna in 2006), Muzaffarpur and Purnea were made suffragans.

His novices adore him for the depth of spiritual foundation he laid in them. The Patna diocesan clergy found an affectionate father figure and an able leader in him; the religious experienced him as a modern prophet. And, the people of God (Christians as well as non-Christians) encountered a true person of God, a maha-atma in him. Of the 82 years of his life on earth, for 63 years he was a Jesuit, 50 years a Priest, 33 years a Bishop (27 years in office) including 14 years as an Archbishop (8 years in office), till he retired on 09 December 2007 and shifted to XTTI for a life of prayer and deeper communion with God whom he had loved and served all his life. Neither would it be possible to count the number of churches, schools, hospitals/health centres/dispensaries, presbyteries and such that he built or the institutions that he established ( such as Tapovan – Cloistered Carmel Convent in Patna or the Rosarian Brothers’ Monastery in Sasaram) nor is it perhaps appropriate even attempting to do so. It may be sufficient to just to say that he was true shepherd of his flock.

Archbishop Benedict was deeply devoted to his flock even in adverse and trying situations. His deep concern for the mission centers led him to work tirelessly for the well being of the clergy, Religious, laity and the people of all denominations under his care. He dwelt on every possible apostolic venture. The number of parishes and mission stations grew substantially with considerable increase in the number of diocesan clergy and local vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

At his retirement, he moved to XTTI from the Archbishop’s House in 2007. He was keeping physically well, though he started losing his memory since 2013. Due to his deteriorating health condition and regular slipping into coma, he had to be admitted in Kurji Holy Family Hospital on 24 January 2014. He was put on intra-venous fluid transfusion as he was not able to take any solid food. He breathed his last at the early hours on 30 January 2014. This again is not a mere coincidence, we believe, as 30 January is the day of the martyrdom of Gandhiji, the Father of the Nation – Being born on the day the Nation gets independence, and died on the day the Father of the Nation breathed his last.

The mortal remains of Archbishop Benedict J Osta SJ were kept in a mobile mortuary at the Kurji Holy Family Hospital since 30 January till 11.00 a.m. on 1 February. People of all walks of life, government officials, friends from civil authority and police administration, flocked in to pay homage and floral tributes to their beloved leader. At 12: 10 p.m. on 1 February, the mortal remains of Archbishop Benedict in a beautifully decorated coffin were placed in an ambulance and taken in a procession to the Kurji Parish Church, with Priests, Religious, lay people and the police escorting the ambulance in other vehicles. The coffin with the body of His Grace Benedict was received by the clergy, Religious, his own family members and the laity at the Parish Church and was kept till 2:00 p.m. for the people to pay their respects to the departed soul.

The funeral services began at 2:00 p.m. The entrance procession was led by over 160 priests, Bishops of Buxar, Dumka and of Bhagalpur, the Jesuit Provincials of Patna and Delhi Province, Vicar Generals of Hazaribagh, Patna, and of Muzaffarpur, administrators of Bettiah and Varanasi Dioceses with His Eminence Telesphore Cardinal P Toppo as the main celebrant. A crowd of over 3500 people including Religious, lay people, civil servants, people from the administration, and a whole lot of dignitaries from Bihar together with the relatives – brothers, nephews, nieces, etc of Archbishop Benedict - was present for the funeral services. Fr. Jerome Dungdung, the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral, Bankipur, giving a profile of Archbishop Benedict said that “during his 63 years of life as a Jesuit, 50 years of life as a priest, 33 years of life as a bishop – 19 years as a Bishop, 8 years as an Archbishop in administration – has brought the local Church to greater heights of glory which everyone in the Archdiocese has experienced and witnessed”.

After the Holy Eucharist, Most Rev. William D’Souza SJ together with Bishop Sebastian Kallupura and Archbishop Victor Henry Thakur conducted the funeral service. The Mortal remains of His Grace Benedict were again kept in the Church for half an hour for the people to pay their homage. Later, the body was carried in an ambulance accompanied by a caravan of vehicles to XTTI, where he was laid to rest in a tomb close to late Bishop Augustine Wildermuth SJ, his mentor and confidante.

May Jesus, whom Benedict J Osta served so faithfully on this earth receive him for eternal reward in heaven! Swamijee, you have been a light which has enlightened our path in following Jesus and serving His people and we know that you will be interceding for us now from Heaven and for greater blessings on the Church in Bihar. You will always live in our hearts. Amen. (SAMACHAR VOL. XXXIV/NO.2 2014).

Archbishop Benedict J. Osta, S.J.

breathed his last

around 5.20 am on January 30, 2014.

Those wishing to pay homage

to this great shepherd of Christians

in Patna for 27 years, could do so

at Kurji Holy Family Hospital.

His funeral services will be held

at Queen of the Apostles Church, Kurji

at 2.00 pm on Saturday, February 01, 2014. The mortal remains would be laid to rest

at the cemetery of XTTI, Digha Ghat

after the funeral Mass at Kurji.

Abp William has requested
all the catholic institutions in the Archdiocese of Patna
to remain closed on Saturday, 1st Feb. 2014.

Archbishop Emeritus Benedict John Osta S J was born on 15^th August 1931 as the fifth of the seven children to Mr. John Osta and Ms. Anna John Osta in Bettiah, West Champaran. After completing high school studies he entered the Society of Jesus on 20^th July 1950. He completed his priestly as well as higher studies in the University of Chicago and was ordained a Priest on 9^th June 1963.

He was the novice master from 1969 to 1976 and then he was appointed Vicar General of Patna Diocese in September 1976. At the retirement of Bishop Augustine Wildermuth S.J the diocese was bifurcated in 1980 and Fr. Benedict was appointed Bishop of Patna Diocese. He was ordained Bishop at St. Xavier’s School Campus on 21 June 1980. When in 1999 Patna diocese was elevated to an Archdiocese, Bishop Benedict was installed as the first Archbishop of the Archdiocese on 11 July 1999 at St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral, Bankipur. In 2007 he submitted his resignation on becoming 75 years and it was accepted by Rome and thus retired from active ministry. He moved over to XTTI in 2008 and has been there ever since. Physically he has been keeping good health and could move around without any help. Since a couple of years, he started losing memory though he would recognize people and interact with them without any difficulty. Lately, he had to be forced to take his food and once he had to be admitted in Holy Family hospital with some stomach problem. But he was out of the hospital soon and back to normal.

On 23 January, his condition started deteriorating. He went into coma and would not respond to any interaction with him. He would not take any food and so he had to be fed liquid food through tube. He also had gastro-enteritis and other related digestive complications. At the advice of his doctor, he was shifted to Holy family Hospital.

३० जनवरी को

बापू के शहादत दिवस पर

नफ़रत और हिंसा के खिलाफ

दिन में ११ बजे से दो मिनट

आप जहाँ कहीं भी हो अपने स्थान पर स्वयं और अपने साथियों के साथ खड़े हो कर
गांधीजी को मौन श्रद्धांजलि अर्पित करे।

Archbishop Emiritus, Benedict J Osta SJ, is admitted in Kurji Holy Family Hospital today - 24th January 2014 - with gastro-enteritis and related digestive complications.
Right now he is not taking anything orally. He slips into a coma-like condition.
Please do keep him in your prayers.
- Fr. Devasia Mattathilani

XXXIV January 2014 No. 1

Archbishop’s Program

January February

14 : Bankipur – Diaconate of Bro. Jesu Jeybalan 01 – 02 : Mokama – Shrine Feast
: New Year Get-together 03 – 13 : Pala, Kerala – CBCI GBM
15 : Sewa Kendra – Health Commission meeting 14 – 16 : Chuhari – Ordination of Deacon Mukti SJ

(Jamshedpur Province.)
19 : Kankarbagh – Parish Day 17 – 19 : Gruppo India Team

20 : Meeting with SND Superior General 22 – 23 : Haranaut – Parish Day

21–23 : Delhi–National Consultation on Health Ministry 23 – 26 : Dr.Hans Escher’s visit (German Doctors)
29 – 30 : Sewa Kendra – 28 : Ranchi

Regional strategic Planning of Social Ministry March

31 : Gaya 01 – 02 : Conclusion of the Centenary Celebration

– St. Albert’s College.

The Archbishop Transfers and appoints:

Fr. Prem Prakash, at present the parish priest of Gulni is appointed the Vicar General and Chancellor of the Archdiocese by Archbishop William D’Souza SJ. The announcement of his appointment was made on 14 January at the Priests’ get-together in the Archbishop’s House. The Samachar extends our congratulations to Fr. Prem Prakash and assures our prayerful support in the new responsibility he is entrusted with. The appointment takes effect in June 2014.

The Archbishop has appointed new Deans for the four Deaneries of the Archdiocese and has nominated two new members to the consult. Fr. Johnson Kelakath SJ (Patna), Fr. Anthony Osta (Gaya), Fr. James Rosario (Nalanda) and Fr. Martin Anand (Magadh) have been appointed as the new Deans and Consulters. Fr. Joseph Raj and Fr. Jerome Dungdung are the two nominated members to the consult. The Samachar express our sincere gratitude to the outgoing members of the consult, Fr. Gregory Gomes SJ, Fr. Cyril Simon, Fr. Jose Chirackal, Fr. Thomas Olikathotty and Fr. Amalraj, and extends our prayerful wishes to the incoming deans and members of the consult for a fruitful and dedicated service in the Archdiocese.

The other transfers and appointments are:

Name From To

Fr. Shakespeare Basauni Harnaut, Principal, Loyola School

Fr. Alex V Nawada Bangalore, M.Th studies

Fr. Jose Chirackal Masaurhi Basauni, Parish Priest

Fr. Thomas George Archbishop’s House Fatuha, Parish Priest

Fr. Joachim Thakur St. Mary’s Seminary, Chakaram Administration, Archbishop’s House

Fr. Augustine Mundoli Fatuha Masaurhi, Priest in-charge

Fr. Mahipal Blasius Priest In-charge, Roh Roh, Principal and Priest in-charge

Fr. Martin Anand Secretary, St. Joseph’s School, Roh

Fr. Antony Samy Studies Parish Priest, Gulni (May 2014)

Fr. Stephen Ekka Basauni- co-pastor Co- pastor, Gulni (May 2014)

Fr. Asit Lakra Biharsharif- co-pastor Nawada, co-pastor, Hostel warden/Director Krus Veer

Fr. Mariamlal Barbigha – co-pastor Biharsharif, co-pastor, Director of BCC/SCC

The above transfers and appointments will be effective by the end of March 2014.

Archbishop William returned on 2 December after the feast day celebration from Mugalsarai and the same day he went to Sikandra. He presided over the School annual day function there on 3 December. He was with the MC Brothers at Dibra and was the main celebrant at the Eucharist on 5 December on the occasion of the silver jubilee of one of the Brothers. On 6 December he was the guest of honour at the school Annual day function at Hilsa and on 7 December at Barh for the School annual Sports Day. The Archbishop was the main celebrant for the Parish Day celebration at Danapur on 8 December, later the same day, for the final vows of Sacred Heart Sisters at Digha, and the inauguration of the Provincial Chapter of the Holy Cross Sisters. On 9 December Archbishop visited Prerana community and on 10 December held a meeting of the organizing committee for the Christmas Get-together of the Clergy and Religious at Loyola School Campus. He was at a meeting of the Education Council on 11 December and was present for the monthly recollection and Sacerdotal Golden Jubilee celebration of Fr. Sebastian Puthenpura on 12 December. On 14 December he was one of the specially invited dignitaries for a day of sharing by different Religious, and socio-cultural invitees organized by the “Brahma Kumaris” at hotel Patliputra. Together with Fr. Dominic Peter, he went to Bodh Gaya on 15 December for the Annual Day of Amar Jyoti School and returned to Patna on 16 December. He was at Lakhisarai on 18 December for the blessing and inauguration of St. Joseph’s School, a venture initiated by Mr. Benjamin, a lay man.

During a week prior to Christmas, the Archbishop had begun visiting the communities in Patna and he was the main celebrant at Kurji Parish for the Midnight Mass on 24 December. He celebrated the morning Holy Eucharist on Christmas day at Bankipur. On 28 December he was fully involved with the Christmas Milan of the Clergy and Religious at Loyola School Campus. On 29 December he was the main celebrant for a wedding jubilee Mass at Gaya. He presided over the Formators’ meeting at the Archbishop’s House on 30 December and on the last day of the year Archbishop was the main celebrant for the thanksgiving Holy Eucharist at Bankipur.

Archbishop began the New Year with the Holy Eucharist at the Pro-Cathedral. On 5 January he was at Maner for the profession of a DSJ Sister. He visited Bariarpur and Basauni with Mr. Jacob Josephat on 6 January. He has been in the office since then catching up with his schedule and updating his office work.

Fr. Jacob Muthuplackal is appointed the administrator of Prerana on 9 December with immediate effect. The Samachar gratefully appreciate and acknowledge the dedicated service of Fr. Amalraj as the administrator of Prerana till December 2013. We wish you, Fr. Jacob all the best and assure you our cooperation and prayerful support for the additional responsibility you have generously accepted.

Christmas celebration in Bankipur and in all our parishes/stations was meaningful and colourful. The number of devotees visiting our churches is increasing every year. At Bankipur alone, more than 15000 people gathered in front of the grotto to light candles and pray to the Blessed Mother and Baby Jesus.

The First SCC National Convention which was held on 19-21November was a very powerful experience of re-vitalizing SCCs as the New Way to be Church in the neighborhood. 74 Bishops, hundreds of Priests and Sisters and over 7000 SCC animators from all over India congregated at the premises of the Basilica of Bom Jesus at Old Goa to share, exchange, pray and reflect together on the growth of SCCs in our country as the new Way of Being Church. The second day of living in SCCs of Goa gave everyone a chance to directly experience how SCCs have touched people’s lives and how they joyfully welcomed all the participants in their homes and serve the needy persons in the name of Jesus. 15 delegates including five Sisters and seven of our Faithful under the leadership of Fr. Mariamlal had attended this convention.

People and Events:

Bro. Jesu Jeybalan, was ordained a deacon by Archbishop William during the concelebrated Holy Eucharist at 5.00 p.m. on 14 January 2014 in the Auditorium of St. Joseph’s Convent School, Bankipur. About 35 priests, the CJ Sisters, some friends and Priest-relative of Bro. Jeybalan, were present for the event. The Samachar welcomes you, Deacon Jeybalan and wish you God’s blessings for dedicating yourself to serve the Lord and His people in the Archdiocese.

The Pastors working in the Parishes/Stations of the Archdiocese had New Year get-together at the Archbishop’s House at 7.00 p.m. on 14 January in which 52 priests were present for the sharing and fellowship meal.

Sacerdotal Golden Jubilee Celebration: 12 December 2013 was set aside for a family celebration of the sacerdotal golden Jubilee of Fr. Sebastian Puthenpura. Though the actual date of his ordination was 3 December 1963, we chose 12 December as the priests from the Parishes could participate in the celebration. We had half a day of prayer and sharing prior to the jubilee Mass at 5.00 p.m. Fr. Sebastian gave the points for our reflection by sharing of his experience as a priest for the past 50 years. The sustaining aspect of his priestly vocation, life and ministry has been the never forsaking companionship of the Eucharistic Lord, he said in his sharing. Bishop Sebastian (Buxar) was also present with Archbishop William and 72 of the priests in the Archdiocese for the Jubilee Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Sebastian Puthenpura. The Samachar once again extends our sincere and heartfelt congratulations to you Fr. Sebastian for being faithful to the Lord in His service for the past 50 years. We wish you many more fruitful years in the service of the Lord and His people.

Patliputra: Miscreants broke open one of the doors of Patliputra church in the early hours (about 2.00 a.m.) on 3 January 2014. Hearing the banging on the door of the church Fr. Devasia woke up and went to the terrace of his residence to see what was happening. He saw someone trying to break the door and enter the church. Immediately he came down and was going to the Church when he saw two fellows fleeing away on a motorbike. Later he found out that they had broken two windows as well, and took away some cash from the offertory box. No further damage had been done. Praise the Lord.

Fr. Antonysamy is back in the Archdiocese after seven years of his studies on disaster management and Fr. Christuraj is expected to be in Patna after a year of Sabbatical within a couple of days. We extend a warm welcome to you dear Antonysamy and Christu.

20 Seminarians of St. Albert’s College, Ranchi including our Jesu Jeybalan after making their retreat at Atmadarshan were our guests and had dinner with us at the Archbishop’s House on 8 December before they returned to Ranchi.

All the Regents in the Archdiocese had a day of Recollection from 11 January (evening) and ending on 12 January (noon). On the first day evening, the Archbishop had a sharing session with the Brothers. After supper Fr. Jerome Dungdung, citing the life of Prophet Jonah, led them in their reflection on the life of a missionary. The next day, he again gave a talk on Jesus sending his disciples on His mission. Later the Brothers were introduced to “Raja Yoga style” of meditation by Sr. Mridul from the Brahmakumari Ashram in Patna. The Brothers profited much from the recollection, they said.

Your Prayers Requested :

Fr. Jose Chirackal is on a home-visit and for some Ayurvedic treatment for his back problem for which earlier he had to be in Holy Family Hospital for almost a week.

Fr. P Bhaskar had to be rushed to Holy Family Hospital on 30 December with high sugar count and vomiting. After being in the hospital for a couple of days he could get the complications rectified. He is back in Gaya on 5 January.

Fr. Kuldeep had yet another visit to his doctor in Varanasi and updated the treatment for his hearing problem. He is having this problem since some time.

Deacon Augustine Hembrom was in Tripolia Hospital for a couple of days and was in traction to get rid his back pain. In the meantime, he was also concerned about the two abscesses on his chest and on the side. He moved to Holy Family Hospital on 9 January and had them removed surgically. Though it does not seem to be malignant, we are waiting for the biopsy report of the same.

Sr. Savio SSH had to be admitted in Holy Family Hospital with asthmatic attack and breathlessness. She was moved to the ICCU as her condition deteriorated. She expired at 6pm on 16 January 2014. She was 73 Years old.

Memorial Mass: A memorial Mass on the first death anniversary of Jose Madathezhath was celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on 27 December at Buxar. About 20 priests from Buxar and Patna concelebrated the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Sebastian Kallupura in which a good crowd of Religious and laity joined to pay homage to the departed soul.

Christmas Milan of the Clergy and Religious in the Archdiocese was held on 28 December at the Loyola School Campus, Patna. Unlike that of the previous years, this year’s Milan Samaroh was for all the sections of the clergy and the Religious – from candidates, novices, postulants, to the senior most. About 300 participants from candidates to senior citizens actively participated in the Samaroh. The program began at 9:00 a.m. with a concelebrated Holy Eucharist presided over by the Archbishop. This was followed by half hour carol singing by a band of upcoming artists including our Catholic youth Vishu and Pallavi of Kurji Parish. There were interactive games and other mixed group activities before lunch. Later there was a carol-singing competition among the participants divided in 11 groups and the winners were given presents as well. Archbishop William and the organizing committee express our grateful appreciation to all the major superiors and the participants for making the Milan Samaroh a memorable experience for all. The Samachar extends our sincere thanks to Bro. Cyril, Bro. Sathish and Bro. Binoy (Gabriel Brothers) who generously spared their time, resources, energy and the campus for conducting the Milan Samaraoh. The Samachar express our sincere gratitude to Fr. Raymond Cherubim S.J., Fr. Premlal S.J., Sr. Surabhi SSH, Sr. Neha SND, and their team of Brothers and Sisters in decorating, conducting the interactive games, meaningful liturgy and other delicacies to make the program meaningful and enriching. Special thanks to Fr. James Shekhar and Mr. Biju Benedict for taking care of the catering and preparing a delicious fellow-ship meal. Heartfelt thanks to Archbishop William who initiated and wholly supported the ‘Milan’ Samaroh for the Archdiocese to grow in unity and love. Thanks to one and all who contributed in whatever way possible for its success.

Youth Commission News: Fr. Sabu Davis with a YCS National Executive Committee member Ms. Angela Antony is attending a two-day meeting at Hyderabad since 9 January and is expected to be back in Patna on 14 January. A one-day YCS Camp was conducted at Chakaram on 8 December with 93 Participants from different schools in the Archdiocese. Parivartan parish level training program was organized by Youth commission at Maner on 4-5 January. There were 63 participants and all of them were appreciative of the program. Congratulations to Fr. Sabu Davis and his team for being active with promising programs for the youth and Parivartan groups.

Information:

The renovation work of the Pro-Cathedral resumed in December after we had to halt the work after the mishap that happened in September 2013. We still look forward to your generous contributions for completing the work. You may get in touch with Fr. Jerome Dungdung if and when you wish to send in your support on Phone No. (0) 9431437083

Archdiocese of Patna has published “Planner 2014” for distribution among the Archdiocesan clergy and Pastors in the Parishes/Mission stations of the Archdiocese. The “Planner” specifies dates on which we have planned our monthly recollection, Archdiocesan Days, annual retreat, etc. for the year 2014. It has address and phone numbers of the institutions, birthdays of the clergy and such like information. You may contact Fr. James Shekhar for your copy if you have not yet received the same. Kindly inform him about any corrections, addition or omission of information that you notice in the Planner.

College of Nursing, Kurji Holy Family Hospital is starting the new session of Basic BSc. Nursing Course (4 Years) and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing (2 years after GNM) from 01 July 2014. Application forms for admission are available from 01 March to 15 May 2014 from the College office (8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.) and on the college website: www.kurjiholyfamilyhospital.org.com/bsc.htm. The cost of the application form for each of these courses is Rs. 500/- In case the application is taken from the website, you will have to send Rs. 500/- by cash or DD drawn in favour of KHFHS College of Nursing payable at Patliputra Branch, Patna with the filled up application. Pease note that eligibility for Post B.Sc Nursing is GNM Pass and for Basic B.Sc Nursing course is +2 or its equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English subjects having minimum 45% aggregate marks.

ART-1 is the National Society newly being registered and initiated by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India Office for Social Communications (CBCI-OSC) for the promotion of Christian Art. ART-I intends to form a national network of Church run art institutions, museums, art academies, dioceses, religious congregations, individual Christian artists etc in India. It is a Christian initiative to Nurture the Divine in Art and invites applications for individual/ institutional membership from interested persons/Diocese/Religious Congregation/Major Seminary/Institutions. Those interested may contact Secretary, CBCI-OSC & National Coordinator, Arti-I, NISCORT, A-2, Sector 1, Vaishali 20102, NCR-Delhi or art.cbci@gmail.com

St. Mary’s Counseling, Process Work & Training Centre, Goa offers three summer residential programmes for personal growth and capacity building for self integration. The programs in 3 phases are extends over a period of two years, each phase consisting of 10 to 12 days only in April and May. Phase I this year is from 16 to 28 May while Phase 2 & 3 will be from 29 April to 9 May, 2014. You can take each module separately. Last date to register your name is Saturday, 01 March 2014. Those interested may contact Sr. Mariola, A.C., St. Mary’s Convent, Mapusa, Bardez, Goa 403507.
Email: smcpwtc@gmail.com Phone: 0832-2255131/09822167546

Fr. Dionysius Rasquinha, S.J. has published a book approximately of 400 pages titled “Towards Wholeness from Brokenness: The Dalit Quest – A Historical Analysis and Theological Response”. Though the book costs Rs. 450/-, you may get it for Rs. 400/- if you contact Fr. Dionysius directly on Phone: 9430965715, or at his postal address: Navjyoti Niketan, Sadaquat Ashram P.O, Patna 800 010. You may make out the cheque/DD/M.O in his name or in the name of the Patna Jesuit Society.