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Contents
Page Editorial.................................................... ............... 01 Christ knows his way........................................... 02 Funeral of Dr.(Fr.) James sdb.......................... 05 Funeral of Fr. Mathew Narimattam................. 06 Sound of Music in Tea Gardens.......................... 08 Christmas with the prisoners........................... 09 Our Three New Priests........................................ 09 DBYFFI 2018 in Dimapur Province...................... 10 News bites from Don Bosco Langjing............... 11 New Footbridge at CKC, Kohima......................... 12 Free Training for School dropouts.................... 13 National Seminar at DBC, Golaghat................... 13 Pre-novitiate Directors meet in the Philippines. 17 Annual Sports 2018 at Amguri....................... 18 Insight 1: Growing strong...................................... 20 Fr. Mathew Narimattam specially remembered................ 22 A Reflection............................................................. 22 Congratulations...................................................... 24 Sincere Condolences............................................. 24
Editor Fr. Jonas Kerketta sdb Sub - Editor Fr. Joseph Thuruthel sdb Design & Lay Out Fr. Christudoss sdb Publisher Fr. Provincial Don Bosco Provincial House PB. 40, Dimapur -797112, Nagaland Circulation Manager Fr. Benny Karinattu sdb Editorial Team Fr. R. K. G. Nicholas sdb Fr. Christudoss sdb Fr. Paul Panii sdb Fr. Kulathunkal Joseph sdb Printing DON BOSCO IGACT, Venala, Kochi, Kerala Editorial Office Bosco Communications Provincial House, Dimapur, Nagaland +91 -9436062842
DEATH IS FOR LIFE The recent deaths of five Salesians in NorthEast India, Fr. James Poonthuruthil and Fr. Pazhekadavan in vehicular accidents while Fr. Anthony A. Marak, Fr. Leo Kharkhongor and Fr. O. V. Abraham due to illness, have left Salesians in the three Provinces of Dimapur, Guwahati and Shillong, shocked and saddened. Questions rise up in our minds: Why so many deaths within a short span of three months? The first two deaths leave us all the more perplexed: How is it that the first two confreres died due to vehicular mishaps? Their sudden departure makes our sorrow all the more unbearable. Yet we know for sure that all of us one day have to face death. In fact, from the moment we are conceived in our mother’s womb, the countdown to our biological death already begins. Scientists, writers, thinkers, etc. debate for and against life after death. For Christians, however, death is not the end of life but the beginning of another, more durable life. In fact, we can say that one dies to live! Both the Nicene Creed and the Apostles’ Creed end with affirmation in the resurrection of the dead and life everlasting. The Christian who unites his own death to that of Jesus views it as a step towards him and an entrance into everlasting life. When the Church for the last time speaks Christ's words of pardon and absolution over the dying Christian, seals him for the last time with a strengthening anointing, and gives him Christ in viaticum as nourishment for the journey, she speaks with gentle assurance: Go forth, Christian soul, from this world …May you return to [your Creator] who formed you from the dust of the earth. May holy Mary, the angels, and all the saints come to meet you as you go forth from this life. . . .May you see your Redeemer face to face. The strongest proof of resurrection and everlasting life comes from Jesus Christ whose own resurrection from death we celebrate during Easter. From the many Biblical references we cite just one where Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die” (Jn 11:25-26). These words of Jesus assure us beyond doubt that one day we shall be united with our confreres and dear ones who have preceded us. Yes, we all will have to die but it is to live eternally through Christ who is the resurrection and the life. Jonas Kerketta sdb
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CHRIST KNOWS HIS WAY OUT OF THE GRAVE!
In June 2017 Kayla Carter from California displayed her muscle memory as a contortionist in the superhuman show on “Colors Infinity Channel” and carried away the prize money of $50,000 beating four other fantastic contestants. The judges and the audience were blown away by her singular performance. Asked who was her inspiration and support, she replied, “My Mother”. When she was performing her mother sat confidently in the front row. When Kayla had successfully completed the challenge, her mother was in tears. Kayla noticed it and asked for leave to go to her mother, saying, “my mother is weeping; I have to hug her”. She was given time to go and hug her mother. One of the three judges, Mike Tyson, when asked his comment on her overall performance, said what impressed him most was the moment between the mother and daughter.
joy because we went to our performance with the confidence that we are born winners.
A thought that then flashed through my mind was this: when we are ‘performing’ our life in this world, isn’t our Heavenly Father fondly in the front row watching confident that we will do well; and when we have succeeded, will His eyes not run with tears of joy? Tears of
In CCC 639 we read: The mystery of Christ’s resurrection is a real event, with manifestations that were historically verified, as the New Testament bears witness. In about A.D. 56 St. Paul could already write to the Corinthians: “I delivered to you as of
Easter makes us just that: born winners! Whatever the challenge, whatever the forces pitted against us, we go in for the ‘kill’ with all our skills honed, and with the certainty of a win. When these days we read about all the powers that be, around the world, striking at the Catholic Church, be it radical Islam or fanatic Hindutva; even from within her (sexual abuse and paedophilia among the clergy or rampant homosexuality or even accusations of freemasonry), we are able to bring up a complacent smile or smirk on our lips because we have seen it all – for 2000 years and more! We know we have the final victory over all these malaises: we have the Easter, the one great celebration that is unending and is forever. We are an Easter people!
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first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, and that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. . .”
all those erstwhile unbelieving apostles became joyful martyrs of the Resurrection. Ever since that giant wheel of the Church has picked up its speed, and now the spin is so fast that those who come against it only get cast out, pulverized and added to the ashes of history.
In 643: Given all these testimonies, Christ’s Resurrection cannot be interpreted as something outside the physical order, and it is impossible not to acknowledge it as an historical fact… When Jesus reveals himself to the Eleven on Easter evening, “he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen.”
As Thomas Babington Macaulay said in 1840: There is not, and there never was on this earth, a work of human policy so well deserving of examination as the Roman Catholic Church. The history of that Church joins together the two great ages of human civilization. No other institution is left standing which carries the mind back to the times when the smoke of sacrifice rose from the Pantheon, and when camelopards and tigers bounded in the Flavian amphitheatre. The proudest royal houses are but of yesterday, when compared with the line of the Supreme Pontiffs… The republic of Venice came next in antiquity. But the republic of Venice was modern when compared with the Papacy; and the republic of Venice is gone, and the Papacy remains. The Papacy remains, not in decay, not a mere antique, but full of life and youthful vigour. The Catholic Church is still sending forth to the farthest ends of the world missionaries as zealous as those who
In 644: … St. Matthew relates that during the risen Lord’s last appearance in Galilee “some doubted.” Therefore, the hypothesis that the Resurrection was produced by the apostles’ faith (or credulity) will not hold up. On the contrary their faith in the Resurrection was born, under the action of divine grace, from their direct experience of the reality of the risen Jesus. That event which like a giant wheel began its movement ever so slow, with the apostles unwilling to believe, picked up speed, and
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landed in Kent with Augustin, and still confronting hostile kings with the same spirit with which she confronted Attila. The number of her children is greater than in any former age. Her acquisitions in the New World have more than compensated for what she has lost in the Old. Her spiritual ascendency extends over the vast countries‌ Nor do we see any sign which indicates that the term of her long dominion is approaching. She saw the commencement of all the governments and of all the ecclesiastical establishments that now exist in the world; and we feel no assurance that she is not destined to see the end of them all. She was great and respected before the Saxon had set foot on Britain, before the Frank had passed the Rhine, when Grecian eloquence still flourished at Antioch, when idols were still worshipped in the temple of Mecca. And she may still exist in undiminished vigour when some traveller from New Zealand shall, in the midst of a vast solitude, take his stand on a broken arch of London Bridge to sketch the ruins of St. Paul’s. On the third day Jesus rose from the dead; ever since His Catholic Church and His faithful followers are used to rising from the tomb. May be dead for two days - just two days, and then rise again on the third day!
Easter should make us say: We are Catholic! Together we are the Church! We will stand with Christ no matter what the cost, because on the third day we shall rise again, we have a God who knows His way out of the grave! Happy Easter!
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Fr. Chittissery Joseph (CM), Don Bosco, Kohima
FUNERAL OF DR. (FR.) JAMES SDB
The mortal remains of Dr. (Fr.) James Poonthuruthil SDB were laid to rest on 23 January in the Salesian Cemetery in the Salesian College campus, Dimapur. The Requiem Mass was presided over by Bishop James Thoppil DD of Kohima Diocese in the Salesian College Chapel. He was assisted by Bishop John Thomas Kattrukudiyil of Itanagar Diocese and Bishop Paul Mattekatt DD of Diphu Diocese. Over 130 Priests concelebrated in the Requiem Mass including Fr. Nestor Guria SDB (Provincial of Dimapur Province), Fr. George Maliekal SDB (Provincial of Shillong Province), Fr. Thomas Vattathara SDB (Provincial of Guwahati Province), Fr. Naresh Kujur SDB (Vice Provincial of Delhi Province), Fr. Shiji MSFS, youngest brother of late Dr. (Fr.) James Poonthuruthil SDB. A large congregation of Sisters, Brothers, Salesian Cooperators, Don Bosco Alumni, lay faithful, friends and well – wishers participated in the Mass and burial. Family members of Fr. James, namely his three brothers (including Fr. Shiji MSFS), three sisters, one brother-in-law and his son attended the tearful funeral ceremony. Fr. Nestor Guria SDB, Provincial of Dimapur Province, preached the homily. Condolence messages were delivered by Fr. George Maliekal SDB of Shillong Province, Fr. Thomas Vattathara SDB of Guwahati Province, Bishop John Thomas of Itanagar Diocese, Fr. Chunkapura Jose SDB (Vice Rector of Sacred Heart Theological College, Shillong), Fr. C. T. Varghese SDB (batch mate of Fr. James), Mr.
Adani of the Salesian Cooperators, Sr. Marcellina Sangma (Economer of Shillong Province) and Fr. Shiji MSFS on behalf of the family members of Fr. James Poonthuruthil SDB. Fr. Vengakunnel Thomas SDB read out the messages of Fr. Maria Arokiam Kanaga SDB, Archbishop Dominic Lumon of Imphal Archdiocese, Bishop George Palliparambil SDB DD of Miao Diocese, Salesian Provincial of Mumbai Province, Diocesan Fraternity of Imphal Archdiocese and a few others. Fr. John Bosco Perianayagam SDB (Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province) proposed the vote of thanks. Bishop James Thoppil concluded the last funeral rites in the Salesian Cemetery. Fr. James was ordained priest on 23 December 1984. After completing Ph.D. in Moral Theology from Gregorian University, Rome, he was assigned many important works. To mention a few: he was Rector of Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur from 1995 to 2001. From 2006 to 2012 he served as the Provincial Superior of Dimapur Province comprising the states Arunachal Pradesh, Upper Assam, Manipur and Nagaland. He was Principal (President) of Sacred Heart Theologial College, Shillong, from 2003 to 2006. He worked as Rector of Provincial House, Shillong, from 2014 to 2017. In May 2017 he was appointed Rector of Sacred Heart Theological College, Shillong. Dr. (Fr.) James Poonthuruthil met with a road accident on 14 January and was admitted to NEIGRHIMS, Shillong. He passed away on 21 January at 7.55 pm a week
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prior to his 64th birthday on 27 January. loss of Fr. James’ precious life but we can take Rev. Fr. Nestor Guria sdb, Provincial comfort that God has welcomed him home.” of Dimapur Province, in his funeral oration said, “when death comes to someone not old Jonas Kerketta, and under tragic circumstances as Fr. James’ Bosco B. Ed. College, Dimapur has, it robs us of not only what we possess but of our hopes and dreams, so many plans, so “Unable are the loved to die. For love is many expectations can be no more. No one immortality.” – Emily Dickinson expects to bury one’s dear one no matter what the age. Amidst the darkness of what has hap“Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It’s pened our funeral Mass today is a challenge for the transition that’s troublesome.” all of us to rise above our grief – for when we – Isaac Asimov bring the vision of God into the picture, we are not without hope. Jesus joins us in our hour “Death is the golden key that opens the of sorrow; today He asks us to offer Him the palace to eternity.” – John Milton weight of our grief, the sacrifice of our tears and He will support us. Christ opens our minds and hearts to understand that beyond “What seems to be the riddle, the abyss death there is an Eternal Life, which He has of our human existence…is the beginwon for us with His own death on the Hill ning of eternal life.” - Karl Rahner of Calvary. No matter what our age, God is always ready to welcome us. We mourn the
FUNERAL OF FR . MATHEW NARIMATTAM
The mortal remains of Fr. Mathew Narimattam SDB were entombed on 26 February in the Salesian Cemetery in the Salesian College campus, Dimapur. The Requiem Mass was presided over by Bishop Joseph Aind SDB DD of Dibrugarh Diocese in the Salesian College Chapel. He was assisted by Bishop John Thomas Kattrukudiyil of Itanagar Diocese and Fr. Bosco Perianayagam SDB, Vice Provincial of the Salesian Province of Dimapur. Over 80 Priests concelebrated in the Requiem Mass. A large congregation of Sisters, Brothers, Salesian Cooperators, Don Bosco Alumni, lay faithful, friends and well – wishers
participated in the Mass and burial. Family members of Fr. Mathew, namely his younger brother, sister, nephew and two cousin sisters attended the tearful funeral ceremony. Fr. Bosco Perianayagam SDB, Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province, preached the homily. Condolence messages were delivered by Bishop John Thomas of Itanagar Diocese, Fr. V. A. Cyriac SDB on behalf of the Salesian Province of Guwahati, Fr. C. M. Joseph SDB for the Salesian Province of Dimapur, Mr. Jose Narimattam (Fr. Mathew’s nephew) on behalf of the family members, Mr. Silverius Tigga for
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the Catholic community of Doom Dooma in upper Assam, and Mr. Kanchan Jaswal representing Don Bosco High School, Dergaon. Fr. Bosco (Vice Provincial) read out the messages of Bishop George Palliparambil SDB DD of Miao Diocese in Arunachal Pradesh and of Sr. Daisy Jacob MSMHC on behalf of the Sacred Heart Province of Tinsukia. In the absence of the Provincial, Fr. Nestor Guria SDB, Fr. John Bosco Perianayagam SDB (Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province) concluded the last funeral rites in the Salesian Cemetery. Fr. Mathew Narimattam was born in the Palai diocese of Kerala on 11 April 1933. He officially entered the Salesian (Don Bosco) society on 24 May 1955 and was ordained priest on 02 May 1965. Of the 53 years of priestly life he spent 29 years as a missionary in various places like Dhekiajuli, Doom Dooma, Dibrugarh, Dergaon, Harmutty in Assam, and Itanagar, Doimuk, etc. in Arunachal Pradesh. Nearly 24 years he spent in the educational ministry. He was a versatile personality. He loved the people whom he was appointed to serve. He learned their language and culture. He wrote and translated many books, composed songs and religious hymns in the local languages of Assam and produced several audio cassettes to enhance his ministry for the people’s welfare. Some of his publications include (1) Xotyo Deep (in Assamese), an introduction to Christianity, published in 1967, (2) Sneh Bondhu (Assamese), published in 1979, is an introduction to life of Christ, (3) My People, published in 1980, briefly describes the Adivasis in Assam, (4) Jibonor Xarothi (Assamese) published in 1981, is a book for catechetical instruction, (5) Khristor Xoite Aru Khristor Obihone, published in 1985, is an Assamese translation of Sadhu Sundar Singh’s With and Without Christ, (6) The Valley In Blossom, published in 1988, describes Neo-Vaishnavism and the people in the Brahmaputra Valley, (7) Baibelor Porisoy (Assamese), published in 1990, is a help book for reading the Bible prayerfully, (8) Meditations For Life In Its Fullness (Zen and Vipasana), published in 2007, (9) He Made Assam His Home, published in 2008, is an autobiography of Fr. Mathew Narimattam, (10) Dew Drops For Dry Lips, offers some facts of life for growth in human values and was published in 2010, (11) Towards The Unseen, published
in 2012, describes his experiences in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, (12) Called To Climb Higher: Value-based Reflections For Youth, was published in 2014, and (13) Eyes To See Far And Beyond, published in 2015,offers help for prayerful reflections in focus with the power of the Risen Lord. Fr. Mathew Narimattam also produced some audio cassettes in the Assamese language such as (1) Aradhona (Christian hymns in Assamese), (2) Upaxona (Christian hymns in Assamese), (3) Gaananjoly (Christian hymns in Assamese), (4) Xunor Oxom, meaning ‘Golden Assam’ contain several songs in praise of the rich cultural heritage of Assam. In 2016 he was transferred to Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur. With the advancement of years his health gradually began to decline and a head injury caused by a fall, hastened his death on 24 February 2018. Regarding Fr. Mathew Narimattam Fr. Nestor Guria, Provincial, says, “I knew him to be a zealous missionary who tried every means to evangelize the people of the Assam plains. Many, religious and lay people, admired his courage in proclaiming Christ to the world. Let us with determination and love for the people, live the same values, as we are still pilgrims on earth.” Jonas Kerketta, Bosco B. Ed. College, Dimapur
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SOUND OF MUSIC IN THE TEA GARDENS
On 10 November 2017, Don Bosco School, Khobong, under the banner of ‘Don Bosco School for Social awareness’ took out a rally to create social awareness on the evils of the sale and consumption of local AND Indian made foreign liquor. The placards carried slogans like, “Love your children, not your bottle”, “Hadiya hattao, bacche padhao”, Hadiya hattao, Paisa bachao” “Shiksha dhan, maha dhan, Sharab dhan, mahakharab dhan”, “thode thode whisky, jivan ke liye risky”, etc. Over a thousand students from five schools of Khobong area marched through the ‘lines’ where sale and consumption of alcohol is rampant. There is no GST in it but there are some free gifts in the sale of liquor such as family quarrels, wife beating, lack of peace in the family, child abuse, cruelty to children, school drop-outs, lack of saving for future, etc. The teachers of every school we mobilized told us the same sad stories of children unable to study due to family quarrels and other disturbances as a consequence of drinking. They lack the will to study. The society stands as a silent spectator to this sad plight of the children. Education is the only way to make people change their life style. Old habits don’t die easily and the old people may not give it up willingly but the young people could be protected from inheriting that legacy. I be-
lieve that Education is the third eye that makes them see beyond the Tea Garden environment. The number of those who come to our schools or even to other schools and colleges of the town is a tiny portion of the people of the Tea Gardens of Upper Assam. The vast majority is still illiterate, unemployed, without aim and motivation, given to drinks, drugs and dissipation. There are no alcoholic de-addiction centres in the vicinity. More of us Salesians need to wake up to the call of the downtrodden of our area, to listen to the sound of music of the Tea Gardens and be sensitive to its rhythm. We are doing wonderful work with those who come to us but they are the elite of the group. The vast majority of the Tea Garden children are not able to go to a decent school. There are enough Govt. and Company schools but the children do not get the support from their parents. Leaving early in the morning for work and returning in the evening tired and some even drunk, most parents do not give attention to their children’s education. The mothers’ care and concern for the children’s education are weaned away by the fathers’ patriarchal attitude. With low social standing, illiteracy and economic privations, they are struck with low self-esteem that needs to be boosted up by drinking. However, they are not
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able to realize that education and economic well-being through saving can overcome all these evils. We Salesians need to adapt a different psycho-pedagogical approach and stand in their regard in our mission to them. We need humble, simple, willing people to work at the grass root level with a deep love and commitment for the poor and their empowerment. Here we do not require digital Salesians but relational SDBs. The more we are electronically connected, the less we are emotionally. Our rally got the support from all quarters cutting across religious, social and
party lines. The Tea garden management gave a very encouraging support. The deputy Manager flagged off the rally. Two Panchayat Presidents, GBs, Panchayat members, women organization, teachers, local AASAA leaders all participated and cooperated well. Hope this small step we took today will mark the beginning of a new social awareness and behavior. Thanks to all who supported our venture. - Alex Pulimoottil, SDB
CHRISTMAS WITH THE PRISONERS! On 25 December 2017, 65 Aspirants along with Rev. Fr. Rector, two MC Sisters and three Brothers visited the Central Jail of Jorhat. There were over 600 prisoners (around 70 women and rest men). It was our humble response to the declaration made by Pope Francis, “The World Day of the Poor� on 19 November 2017. The prison authorities welcomed Fr. Rector, Sisters, Brothers and the Aspirants. Fr. Rector delivered a meaningful Christmas message of Love and Peace. - George Pansa, Class 11, Rua Home, Jorhat
OUR THREE NEW PRIESTS
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The Salesian Province of Dimapur is blessed with the precious gifts of three new Priests in the persons of Fr. Frank Kashungnao, Fr. Athikho Kholi George and Fr. Elow Lawrence Basena. Dn. Frank Kashungnao was ordained priest in Risen Christ Church, Keihao, Imphal on 19 December 2017. Dn. Athikho Kholi George was ordained in Our Lady of Victory Church, Makhel Village, Tadubi, Manipur, on 20 December 2017. Dn. Elow Lawrence Basena was ordained priest on 22 December 2017, in St. Francis De Sales Church, at Daili Village, Kangpokpi, Manipur.
sided over the Eucharist. Rev. Fr. Nestor Guria, Provincial, and several Salesian and other religious and diocesan Priests concelebrated. Fr. Elow Lawrence Basena preached the homily. And Fr. Athikho Kholi George spoke in the felicitation programme after the Mass.
The Holy Eucharist was followed by a felicitation programme. Fr. Varghese Palathigal, Rector of Rua Home, welcomed everyone present. The Aspirants welcome the new priests with the Assamese Japi, Gamusa and boquets of flowers. The Provincial addressed the the new priests as well as the audience. The Aspirants presented well-prepared songs and dances. Fr. Athikho Kholi George spoke on be The three new priests were felicitated half of his two companions. The celebrations at Rua Home, Jorhat, in the evening of 06 were crowned with asumptuous fraternal meal. February 2018. Fr. Frank Kashungnao pre- DL Correspondent
DBYFFI 2018 IN DIMAPUR PROVINCE
Following Salesian institutions in the Province of Dimapur hosted the third edition of the Don Bosco Youth Film Festival India 2018 (DBYFFI 2018) in January 2018: (1) Don Bosco School, Amguri with 800 viewers, (2) Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dibrugarh with 850 viewers, (3) Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Jorhat with 970 viewers including those of JB College, (4) Don Bosco School, Gellapukhri-Tinsukia with 750 viewers , (5) Don Bosco College, Itanagar with 1200 viewers on eight screens simultaneously, (6) Don Bosco College, Maram -Manipur with 160
viewers, (7) Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School in Dimapur with 865 viewers including those from Assissi Hr. Sec. School, Livingstone Hr. Sec. School, and (8) Don Bosco College, Kohima with 3,500 viewers including those from Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Christ King Hr. Sec. School, Little Flower Hr. Sec. School, Loyola School and St. Joseph College, Jakhama. In all 8,995 viewers, mostly youth and students watched 34 value-based short films selected by a special jury from over 1,000 films collected from 20 countries. The theme of DBYFFI 2018 was Youth For Life.
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It may be mentioned that in some of the venues important film personalities were present for the DBYFFI 2018. In Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur, for instance, Mr. Tia Kumzuk Aier, founder-director of Dreamz Unlimited as well as the winner of the Best Director Award for the Nagamese film Nana at the Edinburgh Festival of Indian Films and Documentaries 2017, was the chief guest for the DBYFFI 2018 inauguration. Bollywood actor Mr. Zhokhoi Chuzha was the special
guest at the same event. For the DBYFFI 2018 at Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Jorhat, Bollywood sound engineer, Mr. Amrit Pritom Dutta (an illustrious past pupil of DBHSS Jorhat) was the chief guest. In Don Bosco College, Itanagar, the DBYFFI 2018 was inaugurated by Mrs. Alison Welly, producer of the popular feature film Itanagar 0 KM. - DL Correspondent
NEWS BITES FROM DBS LANGJING
31 January 2018 was a red-letter day for Don Bosco School, Langjing as the past pupils from 1984 to 2007 gathered in the school at 9.30 am to celebrate the feast of Don Bosco. It was a long cherished dream of the past pupils to honour the visit of Don Bosco’s relic to the school in 2011. It got actualized only this year when 146 alumni gathered in the school campus at 9.30 am. The highlight of the programme included unveiling of a memorial slab commemorating the visit of Don Bosco’s relic to the school. They recalled that DBS Langjing was the first Salesian institution to welcome the relic to Manipur. Many of the alumni present on January 31, 2018 felt proud to have been part of the event in 2011 despite many hardships. The Alumni also took pride in honouring the past and present staff members of the school in the
typical Manipuri style. It was very impressive to see several of the alumni touching the feet of their gurus even after so many years. They remembered even the non-teaching staff. The President of the Alumni Associa tion, Mr. Anand of 1991batch, spoke highly of Don Bosco’s contribution in their lives. The other speakers were Mr. Robindro of 1989 batch and Mr. Rocksen from 1997 batch. The programme was wonderfully compeed by Mr. Romesh of 1997 batch. The Salesians present included Fr. TD George, Fr. PX Francis and Fr. TP Sebastian all of whom encouraged their efforts at coming together as a group and invited them to be agents of transformation in society in the Bosconian way . Mr. Tony expressed the teachers’ gratitude to the alumni for organizing the function. There was great joy on the faces of everyone as some of them were meeting after several years. It was a wonderful reunion of friends. They visited and took snaps in their old classrooms recalling the days spent there. They resolved to celebrate the feast of Don Bosco every year in their alma mater. The event concluded with a delicious meal hosted by the Alumni for all present. The local TV channel telecast the event in its evening news slot. - Fr. T. P. Sebastian sdb, Headmaster
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NEW FOOTBRIDGE
AT KOHIMA CHRIST KING SCHOOL
To provide safety to school children, school extension of Christ King Higher Secondary School (CKHSS) Kohima and a foot bridge of more than 60 feet connecting the primary and higher secondary sections were inaugurated by Fr. Nestor Guria SDB provincial at the school premises on Wednesday.
by James, welcome song was presented by Christ King hostellers, welcome address by SDB Parish priest Fr. Peter Salew, vote of thanks by president Catholic union Albert Keneingu, while P.Khel chairman Kohima village addressed the gathering.
In his address, Fr. Nestor lauded the school authority for successfully completing the project in time which will provide safety for the school children instead of crossing the main road during school hours. He also appreciated Kohima village for cooperation and support rendered to the school development project.
Earlier, the programme was led
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Courtesy: Nagaland Post, 1 Feb. 2018
FREE TRAINING FOR SCHOOL DROPOUTS
Institution for Culture And Rural Development (I-CARD) has launched yet one more daring project for under privileged youth in Santipur, Sadiya of Tinsukia District. It is called Yuva Bandhu, a training center for school dropouts and unemployed youth in vocational skills and in farming activities. The five months training will be offered free to residential candidates, in imitation of Don Bosco and Mother Teresa, said Fr. Thomas, the director of I-CARD. The Yuva Bandhu center was inaugurated by Fr. Theophil Ganlari, in the presence of other dignitaries, on 20 February 2018. There are 20 students in the first batch belonging to the Mising, Nepali and Bodo communities.
The skills offered besides farming activities, are: tailoring, beautician, embroidery, welding, carpentry, motor mechanics, electrical and plumbing. The instructors were trained by I-CARD over the past few years in Bangalore and other parts of Northeast India. The center, coordinated by Gayatri Panging, has six other staff members. The center hopes to raise its income from its own 18 bigha farm, and from the industrial products. Yuva Bandhu is heavily dependent on the good will of individuals to support this noble venture by donations in cash or kind. - DL Correspondant, Jorhat
NATIONAL SEMINAR AT DBC GOLAGHAT
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that will lead to Dialogue and a Sense of Co-Belonging Working for Peace’. The two Guests of Honour delivered their messages and were followed by Fr. Nestor Guria who delivered his presidential address. The inaugural function concluded with the Vote of Thanks proposed by Prof. Bhoirav Hazorika. On each of the two days two Technical Sessions were held simultaneously in three different halls. The two Technical Sessions were followed by a Plenary Session on both days. The Departments of Political Science and Sociology, Don Bosco College, Golaghat, in collaboration with the said departments of Salesian College, Sonada (West Bengal) organized a two day National Seminar on 16-17 March 2018. The theme of the Seminar was Conflict In South Asia: Its Consequences And Implications. Representatives from 37 institutions, including Salesian College (Sonada), Salesian College (Dimapur), Don Bosco College (Golaghat), Don Bosco College (Itanagar), Don Bosco College (Kohima), and Don Bosco College (Maram), participated in the Seminar. The inaugural function was held in the college auditorium at 9.30 am on 16 March. Prof./Abp Thomas Menamparapil was the Chief Guest of the function. Dr. Pius V. Thomas (Dept of Philosophy, Silchar University) was the Key Note Speaker. Fr. Nestor Guria (Provincial) was the President of the function while Dr. Putul Saikia (Principal of D. R. College, Golaghat) and Fr. Nebu Mathew (Provincial Economer of Dimapur Province) were Guests of Honour. Dr. Jose Palely sdb (Principal) welcomed all the guests and participants. After the lighting of the Lamp Ms Thuankamliu Grace Panmei sang the theme song ‘Make Me a Channel of Your Peace’. Dr. Konsam Jenny, Dept. of Sociology, pronounced words of introduction. In his key note address Dr. Pius V. Thomas read his paper on ‘Conflicting Communities to Conversing Cosmopolities: Counterfactual Ideals against Conflicts’. Prof. Thomas Menamparapil delivered his speech on ‘Building up a “Thought Bank”
On16 March in the Technical Session I – A papers presented in hall no. 8 were: (1) Addressing Child Trafficking in South Asia by Dr. Romana Lepcha, (2) Human Rights Violation: A study of the play “Dance Like a Man” by Mallika Tamuly, (3) Child Trafficking in India by Pritam Joseph Takri & Isdhar Toppo, (4) State Initiatives and the Role of the Media in Migrating Human Trafficking: A case study of tea plantation worlkers of Sonitpur district in Assam by Mr. Saket Kumar Bhardwaj & Dr. Uttam Kumar Pegu, (5) Fuzzy soft attribute correlation coefficient and application to data of human trafficking by Santanu Acharya, Diganta Jyoti Sarma, Robert A. Hanneman, John N. Mordeson & Davender S. Malik, (6) Conflict and human rights violation in South Asia: a study of select partition novels by Sukanya Goswami. The session in hall no. 8 was chaired by Dr. Pius V. Thomas with Mr. Mukul Sarmah and Mr. Micheal Xaxa as rapporteurs. The Technical Session I-B in hall no. 1 was chaired by Dr. George Thadathil of Salesian College, Sonada. The rapporteurs were Mr. Stephen Baite & Ms Mrigakhi Goswami. The papers presented were: (1) Role of conflict: The double burden of household and professional work of women by Ayousree Dowara, (2) Women status: its role in the present day society by Jayanta Chetry, Rumi Tete & Priya Minj, (3) Role and issues of women in Galo society of Arunachal Pradesh by Jumter Loya, (4) Status and role: An analysis of Bokar women by Ms Nasi Koje & Karngam Nyori, (5) Myths and misconceptions regarding technology among Indian women by Meghna BHardwaj & H. Bikram Arora, (6) Understanding working conditions of women street vendors in Guwahati city by Liangam & Jharna Buragohain.
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In the Technical Session 1-C in hall no. 13 Mr. Tarun Gogoi of DR College Golaghat, was the chairperson while Ms Devangana Saikia & Ms Daisy Gogoi were the rapporteurs. The papers presented included: (1) Women’s role in the society by Tanushri Phukan, (2) Women question in the ethnicity assertion between Bodos and non-Bodos by Priyanka Borah & Anita Lama, (3) Health and healthcare of women in the society of Assam, a sociological study by Borsha Rani Bora, (4) Women’s role in society (Assamese paper) by Bornali Changmei & Priyanka Saikia, (5) Women’s Role in the Society (Assamese paper) by Jahanara Begum & Silvya Rahman. In Technical Session II –A in hall no. 8 Dr. Roshan Sharmah of DR College, Golaghat was the chair person, the rapporteurs being Ms Sushmita Rognpi & Ms Pinaxi Kalita. The papers presented were: (1) Exploitation of natural resources by Francis Rongpi & Tony Lyngdoh, (2) Over exploitation of plant resources and its consequences in ethno-medicine and ethnic culture: a case study of Sivasagar and Jorhat districts of Assam by Keot Jyotshna & Kangban D. Rajiv, (3) Decline of pollinating insects associated with few selected aromatic plants due to over exploitation of natural resources by Pollobi Duara, (4) Increased man-elephant conflict: a study of Golaghat district of Assam by Srimanta Gogoi, (5) Bush meat and the north-east way: a conflict between wildlife and humans by Dr. Konsam Jenny, (6) Challenges faced in the implementation of sustainable development goals in South
Asia by Sr. Salomy George & Leander Toppo. The Technical Session II-B in hall no. 1 was chaired by Prof. Shiva Prasad Borah (Retd) of HPB College, Golaghat. The rapporteurs were Ms Kabideepa Handique & Mr. Bijit Saikia. The papers presented were: (1) Internalyzed misogyny – a defensive mechanism or a power mechanism of the women – select folktales of Assam by Priyanka Baruah, (2) Conflict between individual and society in kamala Das’ selected poems: a feminist perspective by Shibani Topno & Esther Menguiliu Kamei, (3) The overlooked potentialities of women through the eyes of ‘Tsomo’ by Ratnasree Borthakur, (4) The conflict between rationality and superstition, an analysis of Nissim Ezekiel’s poem “Night of the Scorpion” by Indira Garati Toppo & Mariam Kerketta, (5) The Shadow Lines: A Mirror of Religious Conflict after 1947 by Mr. Libi Karbak, Daikho Athishu & Sr. Scholastica Kerketta, (6) Conflict and women issues in the novel Felanee: a study by Dibyajyoti Boruah & Nabajyoti Dutta. The Technical Session II-C in hall no. 13 had Dr. Monirul Hussain of Furkating College as Chair person and Mr. Harmeet Singh & Ms Prarthana Borthakur as rapporteurs. The papers included (1) Immigration, language policy and inter-ethnic conflict in Assam by Dr. Tarun Gogoi, (2) A nation through violence to healing in Malswami Jacob’s Zorami: A redemption song by Luhish Lushai, (3) Constructing Gorkha ethnic identity in India with special reference to Assam by Mahendra Tamang, (4) The Gorkhaland Movement: Structural and critical assessment by Privat Giri, (5) Ethnic conflicts with special reference to South Asia by Sujata Shyam, (6) Armed conflicts in South Asia: Its causes and consequences by Uttam Mili. The common Plenary Session in hall no. 8 was chaired by Prof. Thomas Menamparampil SDB DD. The rapporteurs were Ms Himadri Dutta & Ms Ayousree Dowara. The rapporteurs were given 3 minutes each to present reports from the Technical Sessions I & II. This was followed by general discussion on key issues emerging from the reports. The day was crowned with a cultural extravaganza presented by the nimble danc-
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cial reference to Bodo Territorial Area District (BTAD) by John Kisku, (4) Conflict in South Asia by Kashmita Rajkhowa, (5) Standardized development models: Feasibility, repercussions and the outbreak of conflict by Lasang Lepcha, (6) The Anglo-Akas War of 188384: A Political Interface by Dusu Sambyo.
ers and mellifluous singers and talented musicians of Don Bosco College, Golaghat. The evening turned into colourful festi val as the young artistes gave a scintillating performance. After a hectic day the audience experienced a veritable fiesta which transported them to the seventh heaven. On17 March, the Technical Session III-A in hall no. 8 was chaired by Dr. Jatin Mech of Furkating College. Ms. Mousumi Gogoi and Mr. Anjan Bharali were the rapporteurs. The papers presented were (1) Conflict and Education with special reference to India by Basil Barla, (2) Conflict and Education by Choden Yolmo, (3) Conflict and Education in North-East India by Joy Prakash Kujur, (4) Role of Education in the Solution of Conflict in South Asia by Rathindra Narayan Das, Arpita Dey, Sangita Bora & Sangita Changmaji, (5) Education of Children in Times of Conflict: a study of Atoizu in Nagaland by Dr. Tiatula Azukum, and (6) Changing Roles of Women in Naga Society by Dr, Imtinaro Longkumer. The Technical Session III-B in hall no.1 the Chair Person was Dr. Tapan Saikia of HPB College Golaghat. The rapporteurs were Ms. Alankrita Borthakur & Aparna Borchetia. The papers presented included (1) Civil society and ethnic conflicts in Assam: An overview by Bhaskar Gogoi, (2) From a real security paradigm towards a neo-liberal institutionalism approach: a study of armed conflict in North-East India with a focus on the state of Nagaland and the prospects for pragmatic resolution by Mr. Dominic K. Khanyo, (3) Ethnic conflict in Assam with spe-
In hall no. 13 the Technical Session III-C was chaired by Dr. Jatindra Nath Saikia, Principalof Golaghat Commerce College. The rapporteurs were Mrs. Priyanka Baruah & Mr. Bhaskar Gohain. The papers presented were (1) Participation of women in the Panchayati Raj Institution: the challenges and difficulties faced by them by Debiya Serophina Minj & Alice Kujur, (2) Urban local bodies in Nagaland: the politicization for women participation by Dr. Asounep, (3) Changing geopolitical scenario – increasing impact of China in the South Asian region by Syed Badrul Ashad, (4) Religious conflict in NorthEast India: Hindu-Muslim conflict by Amrit Kumar Tanti & Martin Minj, (5) Religism in India by Chunthanlung Kamei & Ankita Tirkey, (6) Conflict Resolution in Assam: Role of the civil society by Dr. Biplob Gogoi. Technical Session IV-A in hall no. 8 was chaired by Dr. Biblob Gogoi. The rapporteurs were Ms. Priyanka Das & Bhairob Hazarika. The papers presented were (1) Confidence-building measures (CBMS), its application in South Asia (with special reference to the various CBMS between India and Pakistan by Mrigakhi Goswami, (2) IndoPakrelations: an analytical study for maintenance of peace and harmony between the two states by Bijit Saikia, (3) India’s role in SAARC for trade and investment integration by Mark Pegu and Roshan Kandulna, (4) Challenges faced by SAARC: a challenge to regionalism in South Asia by Tahsina Yesrin, (5) Aspiration of Indian hegemony: Reflections in news media by Harshwardhani Sharma, (6) Conflicts and peace-building, women and gender: An overview of the issue of 6 May 2010 at Mao Gate by Kateni Alphonsa Phimu and Ashuli Kaisa. The Technical Session IV-B in hall no. 1 was chaired by Dr. George Thadathil SDB principal of Salesian College, Sonada. The rapporteurs were Ms. Lily Toppo & Sr. Reena P. George. The papers presented were
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(1) North-East indigenous youth migration and changes in their cultural life – sociological study by Amaldoss A. and Dr. C. Francis, (2) Illegal migration into Assam: Its consequences by AngelinaTirkey, Marina Lakra and Chungailiu Kamei, (3) Cross-border mingration from Bangladesh into India by Gaikulung Andrew Panmei, (4) Migration in India: Causes and its solution by Junas Tirkey, (5) A study on the impact of illegal immigrants in Nagaland by Kezienuo, (6) Refugee crisis in India: an inquest on the Rohingya debacle by Subhajit Paul and Uttam Kumar Pegu. The Plenary Session 2, coordinated by Department of Political Science, was chaired by Dr. George Thadathil. The rapporteurs were Ms. Sushmita Rongppipi & Ms. Kabideepa Handique. Reports from the Technical Sessions were briefly presented by the rapporteurs. Then there was general discussion on key issues and convergence. The Valedictory Function was chaired by the host colleges i.e. Don Bos-
co College, Golaghat and Salesian College, Sonada. A brief summary of the Plenary Sessions was presented by Ms. Sushmita Rongpipi and Ms. Kabideepa Handique. Concludingwords were pronounced by Dr. George Thadathil SDB. Certificates were given out the Departments of Political Science and Sociology. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Ms. Ayousree Dowara. This national seminar was a red-letter day for the infant Don Bosco College, Golaghat. Thanks to the meticulous planning and hard work of the Principal (Dr. Jos Palely SDB), Vice Principal (Fr. Bimal Lakra SDB, the architect (Fr. CP Mathew SDB), other Fathers, the collaborating CSJB Sisters and dedicated team of teachers and students and other helpers, the seminar was a huge success. Kudos to the stout support given by Dr. George Thadathil SDB, Principal of Salesian College, Sonada and his experienced team of helpers. May the Lord be praised forever for his abundant blessings on DBC Golaghat. - Jonas Kerketta
PRE - NOVITIATE DIRECTORS MEET IN THE PHILIPPINES
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After a journey of nearly 8 hours with a short halt in Singapore, Fr. Lukose and I reached Don Bosco Cebu to a very warm welcome of handshakes and a beautiful garland of shells .The shells made us feel one with the Philippino hosts whose country comprises of more than 600 islands!
so-called Church of Santo Nino (Holy Child) .This church contains the statue of the Infant Jesus brought by the colonizers. We spent the afternoon in one of the famous beaches in the country- Coco Banca. We also visited the world famous guitar making centre. In the evening we were welcomed by the confreres and youngsters of Don Bosco Pasil youth Centre, situated at the centre of a very poor slum.
There were 23 participants: 10 from East Asia Oceania including China and Korea and 5 from South Asian provinces. They were joined by 6 formators from Philippine South province. Frs. C.T. Lukose (ING), Sunil Kerketta (INC), Simao Fernandes (INP) and M. P. Thomas (IND) from India and Melinda Wickramasinghe from Sri Lanka represented South Asia. The other directors of pre-novices from India could not get their Visa! The 2 Koreans were accompanied by a translator as they were not so familiar with English!
The confreres were indeed lavish in their hospitality. At the start of the programmer we were entertained by the band of the oratory youngsters. The novices were always at hand to make sure we lacked nothing. We were impressed by the fact that all their formatters were properly qualified in the area of formation. We were pleasantly surprised to meet a Pakistani pre-novice in Cebu. It is a pity that the Pakistani confreres have to send their formees so far only because our two counties are at loggerheads!
Some of the topics covered were the following: Person of the Formator - selfcare and self-understanding, Human, Christian and Salesian Dimensions of Pre-novitiate formation,skills for accompaniment: Counselling and Spiritual Direction, Teamwork in Formation, etc.
The programme was organized by Bro. Raymond Cello, Formation Coordinator of East Asia Oceania, in collaboration with Fr. Jose Kuttianimatathil, Formation Coordinator of SA, under the direction of Fr. Ivo Coelho, General Counsellor for Formation and Fr. Silvio Roggia of the same Department. Fr. Silvio was present all through while Fr. Ivo remained for a good part of the programme apart from conducting some key sessions.
After the first 5 days we had a break which enabled us to visit some places of cultural and tourist interest. We paid our respects to the local hero Lapu, who defeated Ferdinand Magellan the Portuguese Explorer who led the Spanish Colonizers in the battle of Mactan in 1521. Next we went to the most famous pilgrimage centre of the Philippinos: the
It may be noted that the Spaniards ruled the Philippinos from 1569 to 1898 and the Americans from 1898 to 1946. Around 92 % of the population is Christian (81 % Roman Catholic) and 6% Muslim. Of-
ANNUAL SPORTS 2018 AT AMGURI
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The much awaited annual sports were held in Don Bosco School Amguri, from 8 to 13 February 2018. A huge turnout of the parents and a pleasant weather was a big boost for the students on the very first day of the sports events. The chief guest for the inaugural ceremony was Dr. Monjit Gogoi, Principal of HNS College, Jhanji, Sivasagar. The chief guest declared the annual sports open after hoisting the flag and inspected the march past. The champions of the Marathon race lit the flame in the cauldron. The school march past led by the school captain, was a magnificent display of discipline, coordination and the impeccable synchronization of all the different squads of the various houses, which was followed by the oath-taking ceremony. Then came the cultural programme where the vivacious dancers set the floor on fire with their energetic performances. The funfilled extravaganza presented folk dance forms of Bihu, Missing, Bordo, Nepali, etc. The spectators were struck by the enthusiasm and energy of the young Bosconians as they enthralled everyone with their superb performance. The chief guest in his speech said that all parents have dreams and aspirations. Their dreams are fulfilled when their children excel in their studies and other co-curricular activities. He exhorted the students to be honest and sincere and work hard towards achieving their goals. This was followed by the much awaited track and field events. As the budding athletes ran for the finishing line, the school campus reverberated with enthusiastic cheers. Students of classes 4 – 10 competed house-wise in different events including sack race, obstacle race, cock fight, high and long jump, etc. The boys and girls displayed great stamina and vigour trying to gain more points for their respective houses. The concluding day was graced by the presence of Rev. Fr. P. J. Varghese, Rec-
tor of Rua Home, Jorhat, as the Chief Guest for the day. In his speech he highlighted the beneficial aspects of sports. During the sports days students are given ample opportunities to challenge themselves and the other teams. They must learn to accept failure. It is not enough to excel in studies and sports but they must train their hearts as well. He illustrated this, quoting an incident from the life of David White, the 34th President of the United States. One day as the family was sitting together to play cards after dinner, little White got a very poor hand and he refused to play. His mother told everyone to stop and said: we are only playing together to share our joy and you are so upset with a poor hand. Remember you will have to face great challenges in the real world. Mother will not always be there to help you.” White had learned his lesson. Similarly Fr. Varghese warned the students that life will not always be easy. He encouraged them saying: “Be brave and challenge yourself.” The celebration turned more colourful by the unexpected visit of Ms Thesin Akthar the main actress of the Kohinoor Theatre. With her melodious voice and charismatic presence she elevated the spirit of the teachers and students. The most exciting event was the tugof-war between teachers and students. To their surprise, teachers won the tug-of-war. During the final prize distribution the loudest applause came when Red House was declared Champions of the Year. Everyone went home tired but happy and grateful for the superb organization and flawless conduct of the programme under the able direction of the Headmaster, Fr. Rini Chakho James. - Bro. Eleajar Kujur, Amguri
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INSIGHT 1: GROWING STRONG WITH A SONG
(Insights from the Life of Don Bosco)
“What is your Name?” “Bartholomew Garelli” “How old are you Bartholomew?” “Sixteen” “Can you serve Mass?” “No.” “Have you made your first communion?” “Can you read and write?” ‘I don’t know anything” “Your mother and father” “I’m alone” “Can you whistle?” “Of course I can whistle!” The Salesian Congregation was thus conceived. It all began with the simple readiness of a blossoming, young priest who sought to venture out into the streets to come to the aid of a promising but poor, helpless, ignorant and lonesome boy, in order to lead him out of the puddle of human despair into the pool of the ever refreshing and invigorating hope. This was an encounter marked by foresight and future possibilities, a meeting that would gradually transform the face of rural Italy, beginning with the sleepy village of Valdocco, and later, a major part of
the world. It all began with the tireless efforts of a man who was in and for his times, and who, over the years, came to be fondly known as, the one and only, St. John Bosco! John Powell in his celebrated ‘Happiness is an Inside Job’ speaks of the necessity of growth and not perfection. He states that craving for perfection paralyzes the individual whereas yearning for growth emancipates him. According to him, each person possesses the tendency to know of his or her own brokenness. The choice of the majority is, however, to carry their baggage of brokenness around. Growth is left to the individual. Applying this theory to the life of St. John Bosco, John, as a boy, was ‘broken’, firstly at the loss of his father, Francis Bosco in the year 1817 (John was only two). To add to his troubles, his older brother, Anthony ‘loathed him’. Lost, thus, in the web of hopelessness, he struggled with himself, falling victim to bouts of anger, impetuosity, and having stubborn attachment to his convictions. At such a critical moment, it was his mother, Margaret, who became his source of consolation and hope, a candle that shone in the darkness of his life, a beacon that could guide his fragile canoe across the stormy ocean of life. So, the little Johnny Bosco made it his personal choice ‘to grow’ despite the surrounding muck of stagnation. St. Paul, too, never fails to amaze his readers. Even after his conversion, it is known for a fact that he never forgot he was once a blasphemer and a persecutor! Deep
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down, he knew that he was broken too, like any other. However, the outstanding truth remains- St. Paul never blamed his past! Growth, in any field, contemplating on one’s perspective of life here, happens only when one sees opportunities instead of misfortunes, hope instead of despair, and to top it all, the ‘acknowledgement of one’s human weaknesses instead of craving for perfection.’ While reading the life of Don Bosco, one is only convinced that he was certainly happy when things were done well, although he was not a perfectionist. He could tolerate, with patience and goodness, the youthful exuberance of his collaborators, provided that he saw true piety, love for work and fully proven morality in them. He was convinced more than anyone else that people are not born mature or perfect, and that they become so gradually. “The works of God are accomplished gradually” was his maxim. The works of Don Bosco began with some amount of disorder, (take into account the oratory at Convitto Ecclesiastico, Pinardi Shed, and many others) but they always ended in systematic order. Don Bonetti, one of Don Bosco’s saintly sons and an eyewitness of his works, desired that everything be in perfect order in the school. Don Bosco once wrote to him: ‘Our aim is the best; unfortunately, we must be satisfied with the mediocre, in the midst of so much evil.’ He was aware of the fact that one needs to act according to the signs of the time without losing sight of the good to be done well. He was convinced that ‘At times it is enough to do good more or less well, in the midst of so many difficulties…’ We also
learned that the mania for perfection did not stifle his numerous charitable undertakings. For him, it was more significant to ‘do good’ even ‘more or less well’, for the kingdom, than to wait and do it better in a probable future. Don Bosco never really emphasized perfection which could imply a torturous ideal. Instead, he emphasized the seeing of future possibilities and growth with a firm trust in the providential intervention of God. Quoting Bruce Lee- “To hell with circumstances, I create opportunities,” there is an urgent need to positively accept and understand one’s given situation, one’s setting, the people one lives with, the discomforts, etc. In the context of religious life it would imply accepting one’s own confreres and fellow religious, realizing the potential of the complementary in one’s mission, and focusing every ounce of energy in the irection of a growth that is wholesome and thriving! To conclude on a poetic note: Grow Strong, Nothing shall go wrong, Take good courage, Sing life’s glorious song. Powell’s got the Theory, Bosco’s got the Way, But Jesus is the Master, Of the Night and of the Day! - Dominic E. Ralte sdb, SCHE Dimapur
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FR. MATHEW NARIMATTAM SPECIALLY REMEMBERED
Marking the “Month’s Mind” for late Fr. Mathew Narimattam sdb who expired on 24 February 2018, the Salesian community of Don Bosco, Dimapur, organized a Requiem Mass at 6.00 pm on 24 March. It was presided over by His Grace Thomas Menamparabil, former Archbishop of Guawahati, concelebrated by 17 priests and participated by the faithful from the neighbouring communities. At the outset Fr. Varghese Chittilappilly (CT), Rector of Don Bosco, Dimapur, welcomed all and specially thanked Abp Thomas Menamparabil SDB DD who, on being contacted during his visit to Ethiopia and South Sudan, had graciously agreed to be present at Fr. M. Narimattam’s monthly remembrance.
Fr. Nestor Guria (Provincial), who himself had missed Fr. Narimattam’s funeral due to the SPCSA meeting, thanked Abp Thomas Menamaparambil, all the priests and laity present and particularly thanked the community of Don Bosco, Dimapur for having looked after Fr. Narimattam lovingly for several months as well as for organizing the Month’s Mind in a very meaningful way. He also released Fr. Narimattam’s obituary published by Fr. C. T. Varghese and co. and a video on the funeral of Fr. Narimattam produced by the Social Communication Commission of IND province. Earlier during the homily Abp Thomas Nenamparambil invited all ‘to be and to do one’s best and if possible, a little more’. He described his batchmate Fr. Mathew Narimattam as one who always was a zealous evangelizer and social activist, one who always tried to do ‘something more’. He tried to acquaint himself with the people’s cultures and languages. Authoring of 13 books and production of four audio cassettes are some of the proofs of Fr. Narimattam’s indefatigable missionary zeal, he said.
At the end of the Holy Eucharist Rev.
A
REFLECTION
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- DL Correspondent
Vocation to Religious Life is a call of God, who says, “I need you, come follow me.” And the individual who realizes the call understands that s/he needs God more than God needs him or her. In this realization the individual surrenders to God totally by promising to love Him with an undivided heart (Chastity), to crave for no possession except God’s love ( Poverty) and to see in everything the will of God (Obedience). But as things are now, religious life has taken on a different garb. Vocation to religious life is no more a call from God but a call from the congregation. Congregations are multiplying and it is the congregation that needs the individuals to carry on its various apostolates. It is like any bank or firm recruiting employees to fill up vacancies or to expand the works. The individual who comes into religious house feels no obligation to God. He or she wants the highest qualification. And his or her sole preoccupation is to see that the work entrusted to him/her by the congregation is successful. So prayer loses its importance, community life becomes a botheration and the three vows of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience become meaningless. There is a craving for financial independence and freedom from submission to a superior. And the world admires a person who is independent and financially powerful. A man who sells rice and vegetables will not be famous or counted as important, but a man who sells computers and electronic equipment will be so. But the naked fact is that you can live without computers and electronic gadgets, but you cannot live without rice and vegetables. So too in religious life, a man of prayer and simplicity of life will not be famous or counted as important but one who does a lot of social work and goes from seminar to seminar will be. Here again the naked truth is that we can be good religious without doing social work and conducting seminars, but we cannot be good religious without prayer and simplicity of life.
does not require self-sacrifice, discipline, humility, an-otherworldly-outlook, a zeal for souls, a fear as well as love of God. There is little guilt and no punishment, and the payoff in heaven is guaranteed. The faith has been overwhelmed by the culture producing what is rightly called cultural Christianity.” Religious life, as it appears these days, is not much different from Christianity in modern America. The youth have their heroes and heroines in sports persons, musicians, and actors. They imitate them and go even so far as to mimic them. In Religious life too we have our heroes and heroines — the so called successful confreres/sisters. But if in these successful confreres/sisters religious life is warped by imitating them, the life of those imitating them too will certainly be warped. Don Bosco’s Motto was “Give me Souls take away the rest.” He worked not just to educate the youth and give them lucrative jobs. He educated them to help them to save their souls. Bu this motto of Don Bosco has been changed by some into “Give me Youth and take away the rest.” And they are happy to have crowds of youth around them, to work for them, educate them, make them happy. But there is little or no thought about their Souls: no Mass, no confessions, no retreats. Youth keep on coming and going. What happens to their Souls is not their concern. Just working for youth is also done by the government and many NGO’s. But a Salesian is one who cares for the youth to save their souls - Give me Souls (take away the rest). Tell me. oh, please tell me, what is Religious life? And who is a Salesian? I need to know, I am confused I see the religious, so many of them. I see Salesians too. But how do they differ from NGO’s? And why are they just executives ?I fail to understand. - Fr. Tom Karthikkappallil, Salesian College, Dimapur
Thomas Reeves, biographer of John F. Kennedy, wrote in one of the editions of The First Things, “Christianity in modern America is, in large part, innocuous. It tends to be easy, upbeat, convenient, and compatible. It
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CONGRATULATIONS
(1) To Rev. Fr. Januarius Sangma SDB and to Rev. Fr. Paul Olphindro Lyngkot SDB who are appointed Provincials of Guwahati Province and Shillong Province respectively, by Rector Major Rev. Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime. Dimapur Links wishes God’s blessings on them as they undertake the task of animation, governance and administration of the two said Provinces. (2) To the New General Council of the MSMHC Sisters. The General Chapter of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC) in Guwahati has re-elected Sr. Philomena Mathew as Superior General, Sr. Christine Mynsong as Assistant General, Sr. Asha Mao as General Councillor for Formation, Sr. Bridget Diengdoh as General Councillor for Evangelization, St. Rose Paite as General Councillor for Social Apostolate, Sr. Katherine
Joseph as General Councillor for Education and Sr. Ancila Jose as Economer General. (3) To Rev. Sr. Alphonsa Kurisinkal FMA, the new Provincial of Guwahati FMA Province (ING). (4) To Rev. Sr. Elizabeth George FMA, the new Provincial of Shillong FMA Province (INS), the former Provincial of ING Province. Dimapur Links congratulates the new teams and assures them of prayerful support in carrying out their new responsibility entrusted to them by the Congregations.
SINCERE CONDOLENCES
(1) To Rev. Fr. George Mailekal SDB, Provincial and to the Confreres of Shillong Province at the demise of Fr. Leonard Kharkhongor , 76, who passed away on 16 January 2018. He had been in coma for five months before he died. May the departed soul rest in peace! (2) To Rev. Fr. Thomas Vattathara SDB, Provincial, and the Confreres of Guwahati Province who have lost two valiant Salesians.
Fr. Joseph Pazhekadavan SDB died on 7 February 2018 at St. John’s Hospital, Guwahati, as a result of a tragic vehicle accident. Among the many assignments, he had also worked as Rector of the Diocesan Seminary in Dibrugarh from 1070 to 1973. Fr. Anthony Abong B. Marak died on 12 February 2018 at Apollo Hospital (International Unit) Guwahati, after a protracted illness.
24 / Dimapur Links: Jan. - March 2018
Dimapur Links:
Jan. - March 2018
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26 / Dimapur Links: Jan. - March 2018