CONTENTS EDITORIAL
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BC CELEBRATIONS
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CONFRERES’ JUBILEE 09 LAUDATO SI
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BLOOD DONATION
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SACRED DANCES
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SEMINARS ON MUSIC 18 CONSECRATION…
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ADIEU FR. LOUIS
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SDBs HONOURED
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BC YOUTH MEET
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EDITOR Fr. Jonas Kerketta sdb Sub-Editor Fr. Joseph Thuruthel sdb Design & Layout Fr. Christudoss sdb Publisher Fr. Provincial Don Bosco Provincial House PB: 40, Dimapur—797112 Nagaland Circulation Manager Fr. Chittissery Joseph sdb Editorial Team Fr. Tarcisius Toppo sdb Fr. Christudoss sdb Fr. R. K. G. Nicholas sdb Fr. Paul Panii sdb Fr. Kulathunkal Joseph sdb Printing N.V. Press, Kohima Editorial Office Bosco Communications Provincial House Dimapur, Nagaland +91—9436062842 E-mail: frjonassdb@gmail.com
A CALL TO REFLECT We celebrate the Jubilees of our Confreres every year. But this year of the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s birth makes these Jubilees more meaningful, making us reflect more seriously on our life and activities. The recently concluded Year of the Consecrated Life too made us delve more profoundly on our religious life and the impact it should have on the world around us. If we fail to reflect, we fail to see the course of our life and action, the necessity of correcting and updating ourselves in consonance with the changing times. Don Bosco was a person who always saw ahead of his times and prepared himself and his followers to live the present and face the future meaningfully. The nine Jubilarians of Dimapur Province, in their own simple but realistic way invite us to reflect on our own human, Christian, Priestly and Religious/Salesian life. Who/what has motivated us to be Religious/ Priests, what significance has the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s birth for us as Salesians, what expressed or silent messages do our life and activities communicate to others, are some of the points of reflection our Jubilarians remind us to focus on. Let the Bicentennial year of Don Bosco’s birth and the Jubilees of our Confreres be an added impetus for us to follow the simple but golden rule of ‘stop, look and go’. ………...Jonas Kerketta sdb
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BICENTENARY CELEBRATIONS : NAGALAND REGION
Fr. Bosco in his message briefed the audience on the worldwide celebrations of Don Bosco’s birth Bicentenary particularly in Turin – Italy and invited the youth to an enthusiastic celebration of the same at Dimapur. The students of DBHSS, Kohima further augmented the joyful atmosphere of the evening with their melodious rendering of the song “Shine our light for you”.
Institutions run by the Salesian Family in the Nagaland Region celebrated the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco at Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur, on 20 and 21 August 2015. Inaugural Programme The inaugural function commenced at 4.00 pm on 20 August. Shri. Kesonyii Yhome, District Commissioner of Dimapur, was the Chief Guest. Fr. Perianayagam Bosco sdb, Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province, was the Guest of Honour. The opening prayer was led by Fr. M. D. Varghese sdb, Vice Rector and Vice Principal of Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur. With the melodious song “Don Bosco how we love to call your name” DBHSS Dimapur set the tone of the celebrations. Fr. C. T. Varghese sdb, Rector of DBHSS, Dimapur warmly welcomed all the guests, dignitaries and participants with their accompanying teachers.
“The Rosary is the ‘weapon’ for these times.” St. Padre Pio 04
Chief Guest Shri Kesonyii Yhome, an illustrious past pupil of DBHSS Kohima, told the young audience that they were uniquely privileged to study in Don Bosco institutions. He encouraged them to make the best of this God-given opportunity. With their agile performance of the action song “Days of Elijah” the girls of Christ King Hr. Sec. School, Kohima enthralled the audience. Fr. Joshua Gangmei sdb, Principal of DBHSS Dimapur and chief organizer of the Nagaland Region Bicentenary celebration in his Vote of Thanks expressed his deepest sense of gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, the audience and particularly to the enthusiastic performers of the inaugural evening. Choreography Competition Participating in the first competition of the Bicentenary celebrations, the students of DBS Zubza, CKHSS Kohima, DBS Tuli, DBHSS Wokha, DBS Mon, DBHSS Dimapur, LFHSS Kohima, St. Mary’s HSS Padampukhri, and DBHSS Kohima, captured everyone’s avid attention with their scintillating performance.
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The day ended with Night Prayer conducted by the Brothers of Salesian College, Dimapur and a robust ‘Good Night’ talk by Fr. PX Andrew sdb of DBS Tuli. Prayerful Moments The Holy Eucharist on 24th morning was presided over by Fr. Bosco sdb, Vice Provincial, who also delivered a soul-stirring homily. The prayer service for the nonCatholics was animated by the Salesian College Brothers. Skit Competition Skits were presented by the young artistes of LFHSS Kohima, DBHSS Kohima, DBS Zubza, CKHSS Kohima, DBS Tuli, DBHSS Wokha, DBS Mon and DBHSS Dimapur. They wonderfully depicted the life and activities of Don Bosco. Fr. Thomas Karthikapallil sdb, himself an acclaimed playwright, highlighted the efforts of Don Bosco to inculcate values through theatrical performances. He also declared the winners: First – DBS Zubza, Second – DBHSS Wokha & DBHSS Dimapur, and Third – LFHSS Kohima. Choir Competition Those involved in the Choir Competition were DBHSS Dimapur, LFHSS Kohima, St. Mary’s HSS Padampukhri, DBHSS Kohima, DBS Zubza, CKHSS Kohima, DBS Tuli, DBHSS Wokha and DBS Mon. Chief Guest Dr. Apong Longkumer, paediatrician, appreciated Dimapur Links
their harmonious blending of voices and declared the much-awaited results: First – CKHSS Kohima, Second – DBHSS Wokha, and Third – DBS Zubza. Quiz Competition The Don Bosco Quiz Competition organized and sponsored by the Past Pupils and Cooperators, had the following as victors: First – Patricia & Marilyn of LFHSS Kohima, Second – Jonathan & Sangeeta of DBS Zubza, Third – Maria & Rokono of DBHSS Dimapur, Fourth – Medosinuo Vizo & Philomina Rutsa of DBHSS Kohima, and Fifth – Mharhoni Odyuo & Mhayani Kikon of DBHSS Wokha. Speech Competition The entries for the Speech Competition included St. Mary’s HSS Padampukhri, DBHSS Kohima, DBS Zubza, CKHSS Kohima, DBS Tuli, DBHSS Wokha, DBS Mon, DBHSS Dimapur and LFHSS Kohima. The Chief Guest Dr. Sanjay Chabbra, Principal of Unity College Dimapur, declared the results: First – Wangzu Konyak of DBS Mon, Second – Imnaien of DBS Tuli & Joy Makhal of DBHSS Dimapur, and Third – Mhonyani O. Tungoe of DBHSS Wokha. Thematic Dance The eight participating schools in this competition included DBHSS Kohima, DBS Zubza, CKHSS Kohima, DBS Tuli, DBHSS Wokha, DBS Mon, DBHSS Dimapur, and LFHSS Kohima. The lucky winners as declared by Fr. M. D. Varghese sdb were: First – DBS Mon, Second – DBHSS Dimapur, and Third – DBS Tuli. In addition to the above competitions, points and prizes were awarded to the best 05
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After delivering his message, Mr. Bithungo Kikon, President of the All Nagaland Private Schools Association, himself a Don Bosco alumnus, declared the following as winners: First - CKHSS Kohima, Second - LFHSS Kohima, and third - DBS Tuli.
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disciplined schools: First – DBS Zubza, Second – DBS Mon, and Third – DBS Tuli. The celebrations of Don Bosco’s 200th birth anniversary ended with a colourful Family-get-together enlivened by special items from Salesian College, St. Mary’s Padampukhri, LFHSS Kohima, DBHSS Wokha, DBS Mon, and DBS Tuli. In the valedictory function Fr. G. J. Joshua sdb profusely thanked everyone involved in making this mega event a resounding success. But undoubtedly Fr. Joshua as the head of the core team and the confreres, staff and students of DBHSS Dimapur deserve tons of gratitude for the meticulous planning and hard work that made Bicentenary Centenary Celebrations in Nagaland Region an unforgettable event. Deo Gratias and Viva Don Bosco. ………..DL Correspondent
ASSAM REGION CELEBRATES DB BICENTENARY
Inaugural Function The inaugural function commenced with red-carpet welcome accorded to the Chief Guest, Rt. Rev. Joseph Aind SDB DD of the Diocese of Dibrugarh, and the Guest of Honour Fr. Perianayagam Bosco sdb Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province. The Apostolic boys then sang a welcome song “Swagatam”. Fr. Kamil Horo sdb, Rector of Don Bosco, Dibrugarh, pronounced warm words of welcome. . This was followed by the felicitation of the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and other guests as well as principals and teachers of participating schools. Bishop Joseph Aind of Dibrugarh, expressed great joy to have been a past pupil of Don Bosco School and now in being a member of the Salesian Congregation as a Salesian Bishop. He encouraged the young students to imitate the example of Johnny Bosco who in spite of utter poverty and stiff opposition from his elder brother Anthony, studied hard and became what he is today. Fr. P. J. Bosco sdb, in his message placed the celebrations at Dibrugarh in the context of the Province, national and international context. He praised Assam Region for the extra effort in holding the Bicentenary in the local, district as well as regional level. Cultural Dance
The 200th Birth Anniversary of Don Bosco was celebrated by the Assam Region on 22 August 2015 at Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dibrugarh. Dimapur Links
The Bicentenary competitions started at 10.00 am. In the Cultural Dance Competition, participated by St. Thomas Sadiya, St. Mary’s Dibrugarh, Don Bosco Dibrugarh, Don Bosco Jorhat, Don Bosco Doomdooma, 06
Speech Competition The five schools participating in this event included DBS Dibrugarh, DBS Jorhat, DBS Tinsukia, DBS Doomdooma, and DBS Rangajan. The winners were: First – DBS Jorhat, Second – DBS Doomdooma, and Third – DBS Dibrugarh. Thematic Dance Five schools competed in this event – DBS Dergaon, LFS Dibrugarh, DBS Dibrugarh, DBS Jorhat, and St. Thomas Sadiya. The following were declared winners: First – LFS Dibrugarh, Second – DBS Dergaon, and Third – DBS Dibrugarh. Quiz Competition The following schools participated in the Don Bosco Quiz competition: DBS Dergaon, DBS Dibrugarh, LFS Dibrugarh, DBS Jorhat, DBS Rangajan, St. Thomas Sadiya, DBS Tinsukia and DBS Amguri. The DB alumni of Dibrugarh conducted it very efficiently. DBS Dergaon wrested the First position, DBS Amguri came out Second, and DBS Jorhat emerged as the Third. Choreography Just four schools contested in the Choreography competition: LFS Dibrugarh, St. Thomas Sadiya, DBS Jorhat and DBS Dibrugarh. The winners were: First – LFS Dibrugarh, Second – DBS Dibrugarh, and Third – DBS Jorhat.
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Skit Competition Of the three schools participating DBS Jorhat stood in the First position, LFS Dibrugarh occupied Second place and DBS Dibrugarh was ranked as the Third. Choir Competition Just three schools vied with one another in this contest – DBS Jorhat, St. Mary’s Dibrugarh and LFS Dibrugarh. DBS Jorhat managed to wrest the Third prize, LFS Dibrugarh carried away the Second Prize and St. Mary’s Dibrugarh snatched away the First. The event-packed Bicentenary celebrations concluded with prize distribution by various dignitaries and Vote of Thanks by Fr. Vengakunnel Thomas sdb, Principal of DBHSS, Dibrugarh. The full-throated singing of the hymn to Don Bosco closed the curtain on the spectacular Bicentenary celebrations by the Assam Region. Kudos and Thanks to all especially to the hosting school, Don Bosco Dibrugarh and the leader of the core team Fr. V. A. Thomas sdb. Long live Don Bosco! …….DL Correspondent, Dibrugarh
“The Rosary is the most beautiful and the most rich in graces of all prayers; it is the prayer that touches most the Heart of the Mother of God… and if you wish peace to reign in your homes, recite the family Rosary.” …..Pope Saint Pius Dimapur Links
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and Don Bosco Rangajan, the following emerged as winners: First – Don Bosco Dibrugarh, Second – Don Bosco Jorhat, and Third – St. Thomas Sadiya.
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DB BICENTENARY CUM PARENTS’ DAY AT ZUBZA
The twin celebrations of Don Bosco’s Birth and Parents’ Day were held on 17th of September at Don Bosco School of Sechii Zubza. Unlike other celebrations this one was really blessed by God as the rain did not dare to interfere with it. The program kicked off at 10 a.m. with the reception of the Chief Guest Mr. Neeraj Yadav the Commandant of 78 battalion CRPF and his lady wife Mrs. Yadav. More than 270 parents turned up for the program. They were received warmly by the scouts and guides volunteers with their salute and by placing a badge on each of them. Fr. Elow Samuel the Rector extended a hearty welcome to all the parents. He asked them to relax and enjoy the day (as unlike other days they were not called for disciplinary matters of their children but to witness with pride their children’s talents). The program was made very memorable with variety of items. The most special among them was the action song of the Nursery kids. They really made the parents feel awesome with their lively singing and funny movements. Speaking on this occasion Shri. Neeraj Yadav the Commandant of 78 battalion CRPF
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(himself being a parent of his son Adit, studying in class 4) praised St. John Bosco the champion of the young. He recalled with pride the contribution of Don Bosco’s Educational System in India and all over the world with its educational institutions imparting quality education at an affordable rate. He witnessed to the fact that the young people who have passed out of them are different from their other companions because of the overall impact they make. Stating with regret how today’s educational institutions have become highly money making business, he cautioned the parents present in taking care to choose schools that strive like Don Bosco Schools to prepare the students to face and take up the challenges of life and live as responsible members of the society. He also said that learning should not be limited to bookish knowledge alone but in fostering all round skill development of the child. In line with Don Bosco’s idea, he agreed that education should not only contribute to making professionals in the field of IIT, IAS,highly paid doctors and engineers;
but honest citizens who lead in making the society and the world a better place for all. Finally the celebrations were drawn to a close with the vote of thanks proposed by Rev. Fr. Anthony the Headmaster and the distribution of snacks to all the invitees. …Br. George Kujur sdb
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The Salesian Province of Dimapur celebrated Fr. Mathew Narimattam’s Diamond Jubilee of Profession as well as Golden Jubilee of Priestly Ordination, Fr. Mathew Tharakan’s Golden Jubilee of Priestly Ordination, Silver Jubilee of the Priestly Ordination of Fr. Emmanuel Xalxo sdb and Fr. Albert Tirkey sdb, Silver Jubilee of Profession of Fr. Roy George Mannattel sdb, Fr. Dilip Pancratius Bara sdb, Fr. Shantilal Kujur sdb, Fr. Jose Edamala sdb and Fr. Xavier Mattam sdb on 10 October 2015 at Salesian College, Dimapur. The programme commenced with a musical welcome accorded by the Salesian College band escorting the Jubilarians from the Don Bosco College of Teacher Education to Salesian College. This was followed by solemn Jubilee Eucharist presided over by Fr. Mathew Narimattam sdb, flanked by Fr. Provincial and Fr. Francis Fernandez sdb as well as by other Jubilarians. Around 50 priests concelebrated and a large congregation of men and women religious, members of the Salesian Family, the laity and relatives of some of the Jubilarians participated. Fr. Roy George sdb, Silver Jubilarian of profession, preached a stirring homily. Basing himself on St. John’s Gospel 09
(Jn 17: 6, 14-21) and St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians (Phil 1: 3-11) he said “This is a day of gratitude, a Mass of Thanksgiving to God for our vocation, for the privilege to serve God in the world. It is a Mass of Gratitude for all of the many partnerships in the ministry we have had and for our families and friends who have supported and loved us. God is working through us all to reveal his presence and action in the world. With St. Paul, let us be confident that God will bring to completion the work he has begun in each and every one of us. Jubilees come and go. For God a thousand years are like a day and he probably has no need for jubilees. But we need them; for us they are as milestones along our pilgrim way, ritual opportunities to thank God who calls us and lets us celebrate our progress towards Him. O God, we pray with bowed heads and borrowed words of Our blessed Mother: “The Almighty has done great things for me, holy is his name”. Lord for all that has been Thanks; for all that shall be Yes. Amen The ensuing felicitation programme was held in Paul Bernick auditorium of Salesian College. Through a novel blend of power-point and video Fr. Peter Salew congratulated the Jubilarians on behalf of the Province. Fr. Mathew Tharakan, Fr. Albert Tirkey and Fr. Xavier Mattam spoke on behalf of their fellow Jubilarians. One special item of the programme was the release of a book GLEAMING CLEANINGS written by Aerimattathil Sebastian Jose SDB and presentation of the book EYES TO SEE FAR AND BEYOND, 2nd Edition by Fr. Mathew Narimattam SDB. ….DL Correspondent Dimapur Links
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CONFRERES’ JUBILEE 2015
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EXCERPTS FROM THE JUBILARIANS’ INTERVIEWS
On behalf of Fr. Peter Salew sdb the editor of Dimapur Links interviewed the nine Jubilarians of Dimapur Province on the following questions: (1) Who inspired you to become a Salesian of Don Bosco? (2) As the Diamond/ Golden/ Silver Jubilee of your Religious Profession/ Priestly ordination coincides with the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s birth, what are your feelings? (3) What is your message for confreres and people associated with your pastoral ministry? Some excerpts from the Jubilarians’ responses are furnished below: Fr. Mathew Tharakan sdb: “No, it was from the younger age itself I was already imitating the priests of the parish. That itself was an inspiration. So there was no point in telling that there was no inspiration. That added to the prayer of my mother and others sufficiently motivated me to be a priest. But to become a Salesian priest it was a different question because we were serving Mass in the CMI Institute. So early morning we would go to serve Mass and carry on. But then one day the prior on the monastery 10
Invited to join priesthood saying ‘Alright you pray and try to become good.” The same thing happened before when we celebrated the Golden Jubilee of profession because that time whole India rejoiced at the 100 years of the arrival of Salesians in India. That time we had the joy of celebrating together. So this is only a joyful occasion. We are all happy for that. That’s all. Whoever is engaged in the ministry of preaching should be daring and courageous to spread the Good News to whomever they can and wherever they feel possible to do so. Fr. Mathew Narimattam sdb: By way of an exception I was not recruited by anybody. Instead, at the age of eight Jesus called me ‘Leave your home and go to some woodland terrain and meditate before me’. The eight year old lad while going to school heard these words audibly and distinctly. From that moment he developed a greater love for prayer. To realize this goal he thought he had to become a priest. But the priests of Kerala of those days didn’t attract him. So what to do? No body to help. For three years he used to cry while going to school. One fine day Fr. Comendu, an Italian Salesian priest appeared in Aluva in Kerala. He did not know how he found himself with some 200 boys in the company of this priest. Fr. Comendu could laugh and joke unlike other priests he saw in Kerala. A very happy human being. He hailed from Don Bosco Tirupattur in Chennai province.
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My message to my dear Confreres as I see them now is the following: Take your time and pray meaningfully. Then be faithful to the daily meditation of 30 minutes. And thirdly, try to be contemplatives, mystics, prophets. If renewal comes in these areas, our Congregation, as Don Bosco wanted will survive… Fr. Emmanuel Xalxo sdb: Actually there were many people from whom I got inspiration, like my mother, Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo and Fr. Zepherinus Baxla. But I would give more credit to my mother. Right from my childhood days she used to take me to the Belgian Fathers to get their blessings, often taking me to catechists, Fathers, Sisters to get their advice…I feel very happy and very privileged. I don’t think it is an ordinary coincidence but is really a grace of God that my Silver Jubilee Dimapur Links
of priestly ordination and the Bicentenary of our father and founder are coinciding. It is a great grace and I am really grateful to God that I am celebrating this Jubilee in the year when we are celebrating the Bicentenary of St. John Bosco. ‘It is enough that you are young, for me to love you’ said Don Bosco. Today let us continue to keep alive the charism of Don Bosco by loving our children deeper. Today we are involved in so many different types of activities. In spite of that let us give ourselves and make sure that we need not worry about what happens to our own lives but what happens to children through our lives.” Fr. Albert Tirkey sdb: In general priesthood, and in particular one Father, late Fr. Cyprian Ekka who was a very good, zealous priest who worked in my place. Looking at his life I was inspired to be like him and I was very fortunate to become a Salesian priest. I feel so privileged and happy that Don Bosco’s Bicentenary coincides with my Silver Jubilee of priestly ordination. I feel very happy that I belong to Don Bosco. This is the greatest gift God has given to me and I feel very happy and like Don Bosco I would like to give my life and my everything for the poor and the abandoned. Don Cafasso gave Don Bosco to the world and Don Bosco gave life and meaning to millions of youth all over the world. My message today to all my Confreres is: “Let us give Don Bosco to the people who are in need in our centers and the place of our work.” 11
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At the end the boys were told ‘Those who would like to go to Tirupattur could be helped ‘. Those who would get a postcard were asked to go to Aluva on a day fixed. Being quite small and wondering I didn’t think of getting a postcard. But I did get. I went to Aluva and from there to Tirupattur. I might have been 13 years old. It was 1949… My feelings? It is difficult to say but in short the Bicentenary that is, 200 years of Don Bosco’s birth. Vis-a-vis myself, his son, now 60 years in the Congregation. At this period of history I feel that the God-given time was both actively and purposefully used for building up God’s kingdom. The talents given by the author of my life had a purpose. I can see it now. This I could not see earlier. They were all fruitfully used for spreading his glory especially in the North East…
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Fr. Roy George Mannattel sdb: My parish being a Forane Church, is a big parish. There used to be at least one ordination every year and I used to attend these ordinations as a boy. That inspired me to become a priest. When I was in class 8, a Salesian priest, Fr. Thomas Poovalickal from Don Bosco Mannuthy came to our school and met the class 8 students. I too gave my name to become a Salesian priest. But since I was already in class 8 I could not join the Aspirantate at Mannuthy that year. But I kept my contact with the Fathers through letters and by attending summer vocation camps. After class 10 I attended the camp at Mannuthy and I was selected. I chose Guwahati as my province. 28 of us boarded the train in 1985 and reached Guwahati. When we reached there we were divided into two groups of 14 each and I belonged to that group which came to Dimapur. And we began our life in Rua Home, Golaghat Aspirantate. I feel very happy and lucky to be celebrating my 25 years of commitment as a Salesian in the year when we celebrate the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco. I am also very happy to celebrate my 25 years of religious life in the year that is dedicated to Consecrated Life which calls us to look at our past with gratitude, to look at the present and live it with passion and to embrace the future with hope. I feel it is a unique occasion and I feel very happy. The little message I would like to leave for all of us at this moment is this: we should not focus our attention on our strength, our greatness, and our achievements. Rather we should put our hope in the One who has called us. 12
We should trust Him for He has told us that He is with us and we need be afraid. For He who has been faithful to us will also help us to be faithful to Him. Fr. Dilip Pancratius Bara sdb: My friend, Anand Panikawa who was an ex-aspirant of Savio Juniorate, Shillong, with whom I did my TTC at Phesama, he inspired me when I asked him about joining the Congregations. He told me ‘You would be happy to be a priest in Don Bosco’s Congregation’. I am very happy to be a Salesian and in the Bicentenary year of his birth I am included in the celebration when I too celebrate the Silver Jubilee of my profession. I would urge everyone to be ‘Don Bosco’ for the youth and be relevant for them at the present scenario. Fr. Shantilal Kujur sdb: Actually I had been inspired by a priest when I was studying in a parish school. But I had no idea of Don Bosco yet. When I decided to become a priest, the Father, one who inspired me, I contacted the parish priest and he directed me. And it is he who instructed me to contact a Salesian priest that is Fr. Jerome Minj sdb. He directed me to come over here and see the beauty of life in the Salesian Society. On this occasion my feelings are high because I feel among many, I am one of them given this opportunity, this blessing to share this joy of celebrating my Silver Jubilee on the occasion of the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, our founder. He has given me the grace to join this happy, joyous day. Dimapur Links
Fr. Edamala Jose sdb: When we were small Fr. Chandi and Fr. Ckacko, our good uncles used to come all the way from the Assam Salesian mission, they used to bring small sweets, chocolates, toys etc. and we were attracted towards them. In the beginning not knowing who is a Salesian, who is a priest, nothing, we were just attracted towards them. Later on slowly we realized what, where and for whom they were doing. And I fell in love with that mission, I got inspired by the way they do and I decided to become a Salesian like them. See Father, it is nice to have the Jubilee coinciding with the Bicentenary, an important event in the Congregation. And surely all of us, including me, all are happy about it. But along with this I would like to ask back a question. Okay we did a lot for the Bicentenary and we are happy about it. But I am more worried about, if I can say the Tri-centenary, 300th year, Tri-centenary, I dare to ask: who is going to celebrate, Confreres will be there to celebrate, or our past pupils will celebrate or not? I have a serious doubt about that. Although I am very happy and contended with everything coinciding with the Bicentenary I am also worried about the tri-centenary that is coming. Who will be there to celebrate, Confreres will celebrate, or will the past pupils celebrate it or not?
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I have a very simple, forward and onesentence message: kindly live for the Congregation, live for the Province, don’t die for the Congregation, don’t die for the Province. Fr. Xavier Mattam sdb: To say who, actually it is God’s inspiration. Of course I used to reflect about my life. I used to think a lot especially when I was in class 11 and 12 I had to travel a long distance to school and all the time I used to reflect during the bus journey how exactly I needed to proceed. And it was God, I believe, who inspired me to be a Salesian since I was also studying in a Salesian school. Secondly, if you look at the person who helped me, it was, I believe, my uncle who was there who used to come home for holidays who used to give me a lot of glimpses of his work in the North East. I was also inspired by my parish priest and the other priests who came to the church. And I believe all these people had some sort of impact on my journey towards the Salesian priesthood. Every time I reflect about the Bicentenary celebrations that are going on and I look at what is happening around the institutions that we have, the work we do, I see the relevance that is there, that the work of Don Bosco is not outdated, the work of Don Bosco is not something alien to our culture, to the people we are working with. It is only that we need to re-invent ourselves in the times according to the changes and therefore we need to learn, we need to study like what Don Bosco did in his time. We need to keep on progressing together with the progressing world and I 13
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The simple message that I would like to give is: as we receive the vocation to live a Christian, priestly and Salesian life, let’s live in loco with the people. Understanding their ethnic and religious background, their life, thoughts and work can bring us together and that will glorify God and that will give meaning to our Salesian life.
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believe the Bicentenary is the time when we can truly reflect on ourselves, on the meaning of our mission and on making it more meaningful to the day to day life. As I am a research scholar myself and I believe in research, we need to reflect more, we need to see what problems we face in our activities and in our mission, in our own lives what challenges we face. We need to progressively reflect on what we are doing, what is the outcome of what we are doing, what changes we need to make in order to make our life, our presences felt and what meaning it should have especially with the young people we live and work with. And that motivates our religious life, makes it more meaningful, more presentable and more appealing to the young people. ..DL Correspondent
SEMINAR ON : LAUDATO SI
On 5th of October Sacred Heart Theological College (SHTC) conducted a seminar on Laudato Si (Praised be to you): the second encyclical letter of Pope Francis on Care for our Common Home in the Sebastian Karotemprel Hall.
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Fr. V.T Jose the Rector of SHTC led the participants into prayer and described the Encyclical as “probably the most powerful encyclical we have ever received in this century”. Fr. Barnes Mawrie the President of SHTC welcomed the Chief Guest, guest of honour, the speakers of the day and the participants and said that Pope Francis’s encyclical ‘Laudato Si’, is the most astonishing and perhaps the most ambitious papal document since it is addressed not just to Catholics or to Christians, but to all mankind. Shri. David Nongrum, MLA and Chairman of the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) was the Chief Guest for the occasion. Speaking on the occasion Shri David Nongrum said: “When we politicians talk about ecological matters to the people they say that we do so in order to get votes for ourselves, but when the Catholic Church speaks about it I think people are going to listen to you people more seriously than us politicians.” Seldom has an international spiritual head shown so much of concern for the civilization’s stewardship towards the world. He also appealed to the participants to promote livelihoods, ecology and Tourism highlighting the rich indigenous art and culture of the people of Meghalaya and spoke at length on different developmental works that are being carried out in the Tourism department and his future plans for the state of Meghalaya to make it national Tourist spot. Shri. David Nongrum also released a book entitled, “The Green Catechism” contributed by the students of the College. Dimapur Links
Various methods were used during the seminar like, audio visual presentations, hand-outs, lecture method, discussions and clarifications etc. Around 160 people participated in the seminar. At the end of the seminar very concrete and practical resolutions and action-plans were taken to be practiced individually and collectively for the betterment of all, especially for the coming generations. …...Dn. Blasius Tete sdb, Shillong
“No one can live continually in sin and continue to say the Rosary: either they will give up sin or they will give up the Rosary” – Bishop Hugh Doyle Dimapur Links
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Fr. George Maliekal, Provincial of Silchar Province was the guest of honour who gave the concluding message based on the discussions that took place at the seminar. The whole document consisting of six chapters and 246 articles was covered in six sessions. There were four resource persons from the college itself namely, Br. Abraham M. Antony (Chapter 2), Dr. Linus Neli (Chapter 3), Dr. James Poonthuruthil (Chapter 4), and Dr. Jose Chunkapura (Chapter 5). Chapter 1 was covered through audio- visual presentation and Chapter 6 was covered in the form of action-plan taking into consideration the Pope’s views in Chapter 6 of the document.
BLOOD DONATION CAMP AT SALESIAN COLLEGE
NSBTC (Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council) district hospital Dimapur in collaboration with Red Ribbon Club of Salesian College of Higher Education held Blood Donation Camp on 1st October. Sixty six (66) students donated blood. Dr. Temsu, Senior Specialist (Pathologist) district hospital, Dimapur while exhorting the students appreciated the College for organizing the camp and creating awareness to donate blood. To give blood is to save life, he added. He said there are hundreds of people in need of blood. Today someone needs, tomorrow we may need. Life is precious, save it. The initiative to donate blood was taken up by Miss Soreni Z Ezung Asst. Prof. and Coordinator of Red Ribbon Club. Dr. (Fr.) Policarp Xalxo Principal of the college in his concluding remark thanked Fr. Gyan Sandeep Vice Principal, Fr. Rajeesh Devasia administrator, teaching faculty, Red Ribbon Club and students for their collaboration and generosity to donate blood. … Salesian College correspondent
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SEMINAR ON SACRED DANCES
religions like–Buddhist Dance, Garo Dance, Mao Naga Dance, Lyngam Dance, Hindu Dance, Boro Dance, Christian Dance, Adivasi Dance, Tripuri Dance, Manipuri Dance, Santali Dance, and Seng Khasi Dance. It was interesting to note that in each of the explanations to different dances, the common words that were occurring again and again were: God, creator, nature, thanksgiving, graceful movement, sacrifice etc.
With a purpose to join together to praise and honour the God we believe in and to know and appreciate each other’s religion, on 12th of September, 2015, Sacred Heart Theological College (SHTC), Mawlai, Shillong hosted and organized a seminar on Sacred Dance in Different Religions. Coordinated by Fr. Jose Chunkapura, Vice-President of the College, it began at 2.30 pm in the college auditorium to celebrate the rich, diverse religious heritage of India and to promote religious harmony in the state and in the country. Coincidentally it was held just after a day when Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of 1.2 billion Catholics organized an interfaith prayer service at Ground Zero, the World Trade Centre site in the US. There were around 450 people who took part in the seminar. His Grace Dominic Jala the Archbishop of Shillong Archdiocese was the Chief Guest and Swami Vedasaranananda Maharaj the Assistant Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Shillong was the Guest of Honour. There were 13 different religious dances put up on the stage which are used for worshipping the Supreme being in different 16
At the outset of the seminar, Fr. Jose Vettath, the Rector, Spiritual Director of Sacred Heart Theological College, opened his welcome address quoting 2 Sam 6:14 and Jer 31:13 welcoming each and everyone with all warmth and joy to the solemn function and the inspiring moments of sacred Dance, the celebration of God-human relationship in a dance form. In his welcome address he acknowledged that it was a rare initiative taken by Fr. Jose Chunkapura, the Vice Rector and the Vice President of SHTC to open wide our minds and hearts to the realm of sacred dance to recollect the God-human relationship down through the century expressed through the sacred dance in the religions and cultures of the world particularly today in North East India. He wished the audience a pleasant, inspiring and a holistic moment. He introduced the seminar to the dignitaries and respected participants outlining the aims, objectives and purpose of the seminar. In his introductory talk Rev. Fr. Chunkapura said that dances are part and parcel of any celebration, an expression of joy and the overflow of emotions.
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It was very clear in his talk that the ultimate purpose of this seminar was that all our being body and soul bless God, may broaden our horizon, increase our capacity to appreciate diversity, enrich our imagination, deepen our intellectual understanding of the reality of others who are similar and yet different and finally refine our aesthetic sensibilities. He opined that nothing changes people as profoundly and permanently as the experience of friendship. At the end of his introductory talk he expressed his hope that the 13 religio- cultural groups participating in the seminar would help to experience that friendship among ourselves. The chief guest, His Grace Archbishop Dominic Jala of shillong Archdiocese which spans the two district of East Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi of Meghalaya, a spiritual director of 3.5 lakh Catholics, an internationally renowned theologian, ardent promoter of religious harmony and peace initiatives and much appreciated in the region for his pastoral care which he extends to people of all religions and all walks of life, said in his speech that it was a unique seminar, where instead of talks, the audience witnessed artists who presented in many shapes and forms something that is supposed to be an inherent part of our Dimapur Links
rich culture and particularly also expressing deep felt sentiments of the people. In his talk he brought to the attention of the audience that what has happened along the centuries was a creation of sharp divide between the sacred– what belongs to the church–what belongs to the temple and the non- sacred i.e. – what happens in the field, village, in social events and family. In his speech he exhorted the audience that they have to transport themselves into another way of existing into which there is no sharp divide between the sacred and the non-sacred. He pointed out that what happens in our day today life, what happens in the field, at harvest time, even what happened before in the history when people went even to engage in war everything was considered as non sacred–everything was part and parcel of human experience, part and parcel of one’s relationship to what we believe particularly it involves our existence in the midst of what is sacred, in the midst of what is divine. He convinced the audience that such a question does not arise when we look at the heart and at the very essence of much of our tribal cultures. He concluded saying that to dance is something part and parcel of human expression. It is part and parcel of human nature to engage in graceful movements. In dance either we are imitating nature, animals, trees, plants, things of the sky, thunder, lighting, all things are taken into dance event. The movements in the dance expresses what is within us , what we feel, our emotions–of anger, sorrow, joy, happiness, thanksgiving, emotions of being engrossed in what is divine and holy. By dancing before the Ark of the Covenant, King David’s kingly dignity did not suffer damage. In dance we bring in what we believe, what we want to communicate to others. 17
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He made it clear that the purpose of the seminar was not to entertain but to instruct and inspire. He added further saying that the majority of the people living in our planet profess to be believers in one religion or the other; that religions and cultures are closely interwoven and our religious and cultural responsibilities call us to understand, appreciate, preserve and promote other religio—cultural riches and heritage.
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The Guest of Honour Swami Vedasaranananda Maharaj in his speech taking inspiration from the life of a saint gave the audience an insight into the sacredness of dance which can turn a secular activity into a sacred activity and at the end of the day can generate harmony and cooperation among different groups of people, nationality, colour, caste, religion and gender. At the end of the programme there was a special dance by the children of Ferrando Speech and Hearing Centre, Barapani. Vote of thanks was proposed by Fr. Jerish Abraham the Professor of Church History, Sacred Heart Theological College and the Assistant Director of DBCIC. …….Dn. Blasius Tete sdb
SEMINAR ON INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC OF THE MISINGS
From 16th to 18th October, 2015, Institution for Culture And Rural Development (ICARD) organized its 17th annual seminar. Mising intellectuals were invited to participate in the seminar and they presented 20 papers, on the six sub-topics assigned to each one. Mr. Utpal Doley, Circle Officer, Jorhat West Circle and acting PD of Jorhat DRDA, was the chief guest of the inaugural function on 16th October. Dimapur Links
The topics that were discussed were: musical instruments made with gourd, blowing instruments made with bamboo, leather instruments, string instruments, metal instruments and beating instruments made of bamboo. The resource persons discussed in details touching upon all the musical instruments of Misings, namely : Ejug Tu:tok, Dumdum, Lu:pi, Tu:tok, Derki Tapung, Dendun, Pi:ro Dendun, Ejug Tapung, Derki Tapung, Pumsu Tapung, Tumbo Tapung, Kétpong Tapung, Tu:tug Tapung, Rai Ko:rég, Dentag, Bu:bung, Lé:nong, Marbang, Yoksa,:, Gunggang and Dumpag. Among the intellectuals who participated in the three day event, there were Nahendra Padun, Pabitra Pegu (District Cultural Officer, Dibrugarh), Suruj Patiri Mili (President of Mising Cultural Organization – Dírbí Kébang), Rupnath Pegu, Manoj Mili, Durga Regon, Rangili Doley Pegu and Tulika Chetia Yein. They hailed from Golagaht, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts of Assam. In the audience there were people from Sonitpur and Tinsukia districts, and from Arunachal Pradesh. Mr. Pabitra Pegu and Mr. Nahendra Padun brought along with them traditional musical instruments of Misings to exhibit during the seminar. Mr. Pabitra Pegu and Mr. Probin Doley were able to play on most of those instruments to the excitement of the audience. The seminar has helped to revive the traditional musical
instruments of Misings, to create awareness among the younger generation. During the seminar, the young students of Karsang Takar entusiastically 18
Fr. K. A. Thomas, the director of ICARD, said he is creating a platform for Mising intellectuals to come together for common discussions. This coming together itself of insiders, according to Fr. Thomas, is an ethnographic research. “There may be only one grain of rice in a sack of chaff, but that one grain is invaluable”, he said, referring to volumes that the seminar papers may contain. “We will sift and sieve until we find the grain, and use to the benefit of future generations. We organize the seminars to find that one grain” , he added. On 17th October, during the evening cultural show, Fr. Thomas presented to the audience his new book, a photo journal of Misings, called “Tani Cool – The Mising Tribe”. The book contains photos of Mising society and culture from 2000 to 2015. This will be a fund raiser, he said, to help continue the activities of I-CARD. He asked for a donation of Rs. 5000 for the 200 page book of photos containing short write-ups on 48 different topics dealing with the Mising tribe. Miss Anita Mili, I-CARD’s seminar coordinator, welcomed the guests at the beginning and gave the vote of thanks to all who supported the 2015 seminar. …….Fr. Thomas Kalapurackal sdb
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put up a musical orchestra with traditional instruments made by themselves. Except the drum and cymbal, most of these instruments are not in common use today. There were Mising cultural shows on all three days, prepared by Jeevan Entrepreneurship Training Institute students and by the trainees of ICARD.
MUSIC CAMP 2015 HELD
Quis cantat bis orat (one who sings prays twice) says St. Augustine. Keeping in mind this perennially relevant dictum in mind, the 90 plus members of CJA (Catholic Junior Association), Christ King Church, Kohima Village, attended the Music Camp 2015 in the majestically decorated Jubilee Hall of the Parish from 20th to 23rd Oct. 2015. The Camp Directors were Mr. Kevitsu Peter, Mr. Diethosituo Alex (Asst.) and Mr. Viphrehulie Charles (Asst.). In the inaugural ceremony on 20th Oct. Rev. Fr. Peter Salew sdb, CKC Parish Priest, lit the Camp Candle and invoked God’s blessing on the campers. Mr. Khriesamhalie Daniel, CJA Advisor, welcomed the young participants. Mr. Medozhazo Mathew, CYA President, enlightened the participants on the 2015 Camp Rules and Regulations. The closing prayer was led by Mr. Ruokuovituo Robert, Asst. Catechist of CKC. On 21 and 22 Oct. in five intensive sessions Mr. Kevitsu Peter and Mr. Kevingulie Kevin tried to drill in basic knowledge and skills of music reading and singing on the enthusiastic participants. The main programme was interspersed with many practical sessions of singing and games. The Camp concluded with a grand Talent Night at 5.00 pm on 22 Oct., compered by Mr. Kethoneizo and judged by CYA Executives. The Vote of Thanks was pronounced by the CJA President, Mr. Lawrence. . ..Mr. Lawerence, CIA President 19
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CONSECRATION IN JOHANNINE THEOLOGY “Consecrate them in the truth; your Word is truth…” (John 17:17, 19)
Introduction Since the 16th century, the above chapter has been called the ‘high priestly prayer” of Jesus. He speaks as intercessor, with words addressed directly to the Father and not to the disciples who supposedly only overhear. Yet the prayer is one of petition, for the immediate (6-19) and future (20-21) disciples. High Priestly Prayer in St. John’s Gospel and the Epistle to the Hebrews The high priestly prayer in John 17 differs from the Epistle to the Hebrews where Jesus is portrayed as a high priest in heaven, praying for whole mankind. In the Gospel of John Jesus uses the following priestly prayer: “Sanctify them in the truth: your ‘Word’ is ‘truth’ … For their sake I consecrate (hagiázō) myself, that they also may be consecrated in truth” (17:17, 19). Dimapur Links
To Consecrate is to Set Apart or to Make Holy In this section Jesus prayed that his disciples might be ‘consecrated’ in truth which is done in the Holy Spirit because Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth and so the question of the absence of the Holy Spirit/ Paraclet who would be the most important factor in the future ministry of the Apostles is ruled out. The word for ‘to consecrate’ is hagiazein which comes from the adjective hagios. Hagios is usually translated holy (qadosˇ in Hebrew means handing over a reality–a person or even a thing–to God, especially through appropriation for worship) but its basic meaning is separate. Hagiazein would mean to set apart for a special task. Something that is consecrated or set apart is elevated and given a new identity that is no longer under human control. Setting apart also stands for the idea of ‘existing for’. It is entirely given over to God, it is there now for the world, for people, it speaks for them and exists for their healing. To Consecrate is to Equip a Man with the Qualities of Mind and Heart and Character
But hagiazein means not only to set apart for some special office and task, it also means to equip a man with the qualities of mind and heart and character which are necessary for that task. If a man is to serve God, he must have something of God’s goodness and God’s wisdom in him. He who would serve the holy God must himself be holy too. And so God does not only choose a man for his special service, and set him apart for it , in addition to this 20
Setting Apart and Mission form a Single Whole
It is God alone who Consecrates
Setting apart and mission form a single whole. The classical example is the setting apart of the people of Israel for a particular purpose–in order to carry out a mission for the whole world. That is what is meant when Israel is selected as a ‘holy people.’ When God called Jeremiah, he said to him: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations” (Jer 1:5). It means that God is exercising a total claim over this man, ‘setting him apart’ for himself, yet at the same time sending him out for the nations.
It is God alone who consecrates. Consecration of an altar, a prophet (Jer 1:5; a prophet had to be consecrated because he is the bearer of God’s ‘Word’), a priest (Lev 8:30; 2 Chron 5:11) would mean that they are set apart for a special task. In the Old Testament animals were also set apart. Who sets apart? It is God. I only offer myself, my life and my willingness and God takes and sets me apart. A priest is consecrated in persona Christi. The priest is only an instrument in the hands of God who sets him apart. This is the answer to the question of whether to go for confession to a priest who might be more sinful than the faithful. The Meaning of Sanctification According to biblical understanding, ‘sanctity’ or ‘holiness’ in the fullest sense of the term is attributable only to God. We human beings can only spoil his holy name; we cannot make his name holy. It is God alone who makes his name holy. Holiness expresses his particular way of being. Jesus the Consecrated One Here Jesus declares himself as the one sanctified and sent into the world by the Father (10:36). In this passage one encounters triple ‘sanctification’: the Father has sanctified the Son (10:36) and sent him into the world; the Son sanctifies himself; and he asks, on the basis of his own sanctification, that the disciples be sanctified in the truth.
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As far as consecration and mission are concerned, incarnation of Jesus is in total unity with the Father and total existence for the world in view of his mission. It is the same Logos made flesh who entirely now belongs to God and at the same time to “all humanity”. As such, Peter was right when he said: “You are the holy (qadosˇ) one of God” (Jn 6:69). In Chapter 11 Jesus addresses his Father as ‘Holy’ and Jesus himself says: “I and the Father are one” (Jn 10:30).
The Old Testament mentality of the holiness of God is opposed to what is secular and profane. When God was instituting the priesthood in Israel he told Moses to ordain the sons of Aaron and to consecrate them that they might serve in the office of the priests (Ex 28:41). Aaron’s sons were to be set apart for a special office and a special duty.
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he also equips a man with the qualities he needs to carry it out.
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The Preposition hyp̀er In this passage the preposition hyp̀er autōn (for them) is very important for us to understand the concept of consecration (cf. Jn 9:51; 10:11; 15:13 Rom 8:32). In Chapter 10, it is the divine and model shepherd who of his own accord, the ego eimi, and the consecrated one becomes the victim and the priest for the whole humanity and lays down his life for his sheep. In 15:13 Jesus speaks of laying down one’s life for those whom one loves. In Jn 11:15 he is to die for the whole nation. Jesus’ consecration can be understood in two ways: firstly Jesus is consecrated as incarnation of God’s ‘Word’ sent by the Father for the salvation of the world and secondly Jesus is like a priest and a victim offering himself to the Father ‘for’ all humanity. Consecration in truth is equal to consecration in God’s ‘Word’ and Jesus is the incarnate ‘Word’ of the Father. In the common Jewish prayer it was declared that God sanctifies people through his commandments and for John ‘Word’ and ‘Commandments’ are virtually interchangeable. It is also established that in Johannine Theology Jesus is both the ‘Word’ and the ‘truth’. And as far as the disciples are concerned, they accept and keep the ‘Word’ (17:6; 14) given to them by God through Jesus. They are cleansed by the ‘Word’ (15:3) and it sets them aside for a mission of conveying it to others. We as Christians, apostles of Jesus, friends of Jesus, beloved disciples of Jesus become like him when we are ‘sent’ by Jesus himself after being consecrated in truth by Jesus for a particular mission.
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The Implication of Consecration on the Disciples As for the disciples they are to be drawn into Jesus’ sanctification; their being given over to God, their ‘consecration’, is tied to the consecration of Jesus Christ: it is a participation in his state of sanctification. Jesus, set apart by the Father for his mission to the world which is perfectly in harmony with the Old Testament understanding of Consecration (Ex 28:41), now prays for the disciples, who are sent into the world by the Sent One of God. To the Jewish mind, this would indicate the holiness expected from the disciples of Jesus for whom he is praying in connection with the principles of Leviticus (11:44; 19:2; 20:26) which says that the people must make themselves holy because God is Holy. If God so loved the world that he sent his Son” (3:16) for the salvation of the world (3:17), now the Son is sending his disciples into the world with a solemn prayer to the sender Father. Conclusion The prayer of Jesus for his disciples shows that it is a prayer that they may be kept safe in the world and be sanctified by the truth so as to engage in mission to the world as the ‘sent ones’ of Jesus. It is obvious that they are the continuing locus of Jn 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” ...Blasius Tete sdb, Shillong
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ADIEU DEAR FR. LOUIS TIRKEY SDB
The Preface of Christian death assures us that for His faithful people life is changed not ended. Fr. Louis Tirkey was born on 25 Feb. 1951 in Gubrihali village of North Lakhimpur district belonging to the Diocese of Tezpur. He was the eldest son of late Mr. Juel Tirkey and Mariam Lakra. He has five brothers and one sister.
Fr. Louis Tirkey SDB of the Salesian Province of Dimapur died at Vincenza Gerosa Hospital in Dibrugarh, Assam, on 4 Sept. 2015. His mortal remains were laid to rest in the Salesian cemetery, Dimapur, on 7 Sept. 2015. The funeral Mass was presided over by Rt. Rev. Joseph Aind SDB DD, Bishop of Dibrugarh Diocese with over 80 Priests from the Dioceses of Dibrugarh, Kohima, Tezpur and Salesians from the Provinces of Dimapur, Guwahati and Silchar concelebrating. A large number of men and women religious and laity prayed for the eternal repose of his soul. Fr. Nestor Guria SDB, Provincial of Dimapur Province completed the last rites in the cemetery. The following is the extract of the homily delivered by him during the Holy Eucharistic celebration: In faith we have gathered round the mortal remains of our beloved brother Fr. Louis Tirkey SDB believing that death for a Salesian is made bright by the hope of entering into the joy of his Lord. And when a Salesian dies working for souls, the Congregation has won a great triumph (Const. 54). We also rely on the words of St. Paul “If we have died with Him, then we shall live with Him� (2 Tim 2:12). Dimapur Links
Fr. Louis began his schooling in Don Bosco School, lakhimpur and after completing class VI joined Savio Juniorate, Shillong. He made his first Profession on 24 May 1973 and did his Philosophical studies in Sonada, West Bengal. For his practical training he was sent to Don Bosco Shillong and his Theological studies at Sacred Heart Theological College, Shillong. He was ordained priest on 2 February 1983. After his ordination he worked in various Salesian centers under various capacities. The places he worked are: Golaghat, Harmutty, Tongna, Hijuguri, Amguri, Jagun, Tinsukia Parish, Doom Dooma, Marengo College Hostel in Dibrugarh, Khobong parish and finally he joined the community of Don Bosco, Dibrugarh on 26 may 2015, where he suffered multiple strokes and finally went to his eternal home on 4 Sept. 2015. We thank God for the gift of Fr. Louis to our Congregation and to our Province. He was a man of remarkable qualities, cheerfulness being one of the most prominent. . From his younger days he was always very cheerful and had the capacity to befriend and make others cheerful and happy. New boys always found an easy companion in him. He was very humorous, jovial and witty and fun-loving in any 23
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company. Many confreres who worked with him experienced his simplicity, availability and welcoming spirit. As a priest and religious he was a prayerful man. He was very much sought after for prayers for the sick. He was always available for healing ministry. He had a very strong missionary spirit. He made several missionary journeys to the Patkai range of Changlang district and Tirap district (in Arunachal Pradesh) which are inhabited by the Tangshas, Noctes and the Wanchos. These loved him and liked his animation of Retreats and invited him number of times. He had the capacity to endure pain and suffering without complaining. He was very diligent in his priestly and religious duties. Wherever he was he gave his best. In the Gospel according to St. John Jesus tells His disciples “You know the way which leads to where I am going”. Thomas said to Jesus “We do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way”? Jesus answered “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but through me”. Thomas expressed the same doubt that we all feel and we ask ourselves how we can face this tragedy. It is natural to feel sorrow at the death of a loved one. But as Christians we should also feel at the same time a firm hope that the death we are confronting is a separation that may be long or short but it is not a total loss one has forever. Our lives are too precious to end without a trace. We are actually conscious of this when we are faced with the death of someone we love. As Christians we believe that death is not an end. It is a coming still, it is not a break in existence, it is a transformation. We believe that when the hour of our death arrives (which normally happens unexpectedly) Dimapur Links
when our existence on this earth reaches its end, we don’t find ourselves facing nothingness, we end up facing the merciful hands of a loving Father who welcomes us and converts our death into resurrection. Death takes away our ability to communicate with others. Only God can respond to the uncertainties that we feel about death. Because God is really our merciful Father, our Friend and Ally, God cannot look indifferently at death. God is there to welcome us and to show us that the answer to death is life and ultimately resurrection. In his letter to Timothy St. Paul tells “You can depend on this that if we have died with Him we shall also live with Him”. Paul does not tell Timothy that we should not grieve. We all grieve at the death of a loved one as we do now at the loss of our beloved brother Fr. Louis Tirkey. What Paul tells is that we should not grieve as if we had lost all hope. Sooner or later this sorrowful separation will end and we will be reunited. Christians believe that death is not final. We will be raised from death. We do not give up our lives in vain. We return them to our Creator. In death we attain the fullness of our being and we reach true life which we call eternal life. We do not believe that we have two lives – this one and the one beyond the grave. We believe that what some thought to be the ‘other life’ isn’t ‘other’ at all. In reality it is a continuation of this life. It is the fullness of life that began at baptism and which now reaches its supreme moment when we come in full communion with the Father. Sisters and brothers, we are gathered here today to pray for our beloved brother Fr. Louis Tirkey.
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Messages from: Mr. Sanjib Tirkey: “In the name of my family members I sincerely thank all of you who have come to pray for the eternal repose of the soul of Fr. Louis. Thanks to all our relatives, friends and wellwishers who have come from Doom Dooma, Khobong, Dibrugarh, and other places to pray for him.” Fr. Kamil Horo sdb: Fr. Louis Tirkey joined our Dibrugarh community on 26 May 2015. All of us felt that this gentle, simple Fr. Louis was very close to God. He was generous with his services despite his ill-health.
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He spoke little but his gentle smile expressed eloquently his love and care for the community. In June Fr. Job Kallarackal, Asst. Warden of Bp. Marengo College Hostel, went to help in the Salesian Novitiate at Zubza-Kohima. In his absence Fr. Provincial asked Fr. Louis to assist in Marengo Hostel. He accepted without any complaints and went there to help Fr. Surjit the Warden. I remember the love and care of Fr. Louis when I myself was admitted in the VG Hospital. Practically every day he came to see me. On 21 June he himself fell ill. From morning onwards he began to lose balance while walking. Fr. Chinnappa Raj informed me about the health of Fr. Louis. In the afternoon he was admitted in the VG Hospital. Before entering his hospital room he entered my room and from the wheel chair wished me. I welcomed him to the hospital and wished him speedy recovery. In the evening he wanted to celebrate Mass but could not due to weakness in his body. I celebrated Mass and gave him Holy Communion. That was his last Holy Communion. On 24 June he began to perspire profusely. He was rushed to the ICU. Then on he could not take any solid food. He was cared for very well by the Sisters, doctors and nurses of VG Hospital. He was administered physio therapy on his hands and feet which were paralyzed. He showed some signs of improvement. But on 27 August Dr. Mriganka felt confused as to what could be done to help Fr. Louis as the latter showed not much progress. So he was brought back to Don Bosco community and was placed on a special bedstead. But on 4 September suddenly his health began deteriorating. Frs. Job, V. A. Thomas, Raj and I rushed him back to the hospital. I administered to him the extreme unction and Fr. Louis passed away peacefully.
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The visible separation does not mean that Fr. Louis is too far away to feel our love for him. Our love reaches him in the form of prayer. At this critical moment when Fr. Louis comes face to face with God, the entire Church is united with us in prayer. Fr. Louis is not alone. We are with him in prayer as we remember the consoling words of our Lord “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Have faith in God and faith in me. I shall come back to take you with me that where I am you also may be. You know the way that leads where I go.” And so today we say to him as the Spaniards would say “Go with God good friend until we meet again. Break bread with the one whose life and death have guaranteed everlasting life. May the angels lead you today into paradise and may you begin today a new life in which heaven replaces belief, youth replaces age, and certainty replaces doubt. As you enter the company of those loved ones, you precede and wait for those who are to follow.”
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On 5 Sept. Bishop Joseph Aind presided over the Requiem Mass in Don Bosco. Many priests, religious and laity joined the Mass. On 6th morning he commenced his last journey to Dimapur. Don Bosco community of Dibrugarh thanks Fr. Provincial, the Provincial Council, other confreres, priests, religious and people for their loving concern shown towards Fr. Louis Tirkey. We thank all the doctors, Sisters and nurses of VG Hospital for their tender care towards Fr. Louis. We thank the family members for their help in caring for Fr. Louis. Very special thanks to his nephew and brother for their tender care for Fr. Louis. Thanks also to the two boys from Khobong Parish who had come to assist Fr. Louis. Sincere thanks to the Sisters of VG Hospital and Little Flower Convent for preparing the coffin and the church. Dear Fr. Louis, we will miss you. Thank you for being a loving Father to us. May you rest in peace in the presence of the Lord Jesus. Pray for us asking God to shower on us his choicest blessings. Good bye until we meet at Jesus’ feet.” Mr. Sanjib Tirkey: (Khobong Parish) Fr. Louis came to Khobong Parish on 8 May 2008 as Assistant to Fr. Jerome Minj sdb. In 2009 together with the Parish community he organized the Silver Jubilee celebration of Fr. Jerome Minj’s priestly ordination. During his stay in Khobong, Fr. Louis has done lots of work, for example he helped Fr. Jerome in the construction of the Church and the school buildings. People of different religions used to come to him asking him to pray for the sick. He also promoted the first Friday devotion in which many parishioners participated.
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He also promoted the celebration of the parish feast on the day of Mary Help of Christians (24 May). In 2013 he organized the farewell programme for Fr. Jerome on 2 February 2013. On the same day the new parish priest Fr. Alex Pulimoottil was welcomed. He worked about two years with Fr. Alex. On 24 May 2015 the feast of Mary Help of Christians and farewell for Fr. Louis were celebrated. And on 26 May Fr. Louis went to Don Bosco, Dibrugarh. While working in Khobong Parish Fr. Louis had awakened and strengthened the faith of the parishioners. We believe that God will certainly grant him eternal reward in heaven. Fr. Francis Fernandez sdb (Assam Don Bosco University, Guwahati): I represent the friends of Fr. Louis Tirkey, those here present and those who could not come. What do I remember about Fr. Louis? First of all what I remember is that he was a tall figure and we short fellows were referred to as small boys. We had eight games teams according to our heights. He was always in Team A and the majority of us were in the last Team. Nevertheless in our class and in all other activities there was a certain friendship and camaraderie that existed in such a manner that we could carry on as one unit. To us all he was referred to as “uncle”. I don’t know who gave him that name. Most probably Fr. E. C. Michael who is the most inventive of our group, gave the name. But it was a title that Fr. Louis most willingly accepted and there was no malice or unhappiness about it. He was always the ‘uncle’. And we the small ones could always repose our confidence on him for whatever activity 26
I had not met Fr. Louis for a long time. Probably the last time I met him was when we came for the funeral of Fr. Paul Bernik sdb. I heard that by that time he had become a charismatic person and I was happy to know that. It also surprised me a bit as it was something divergent from his lively nature. But God’s grace comes to us in different ways and it is important to respond to that grace. I like to offer condolences to the Province of Dimapur on our behalf as his companions coming from the provinces of Guwahati and Silchar, to Fr. Provincial and other Confreres. Also I assure of our prayerful remembrance of Fr. Louis and others of this Province. Dear Fr. Louis, you have gone before us to the heavenly Kingdom. Remember us and pray that we too may be fruitful, effective and efficacious as priests and religious. May you rest in peace.
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Vote of Thanks Fr. Bosco Perianayagam sdb, Vice Provincial, expressed sincere gratitude to Rt. Rev. Joseph Aind SDB DD, Bishop of Dibrugarh Diocese, to all the priests, religious and people who had come to pay respect to the mortal remains of Fr. Louis Tirkey and to pray for his soul. He thanked the Sisters, doctors and nurses of VG Hospital. He expressed gratitude to the Confreres and boys of the Apostolic School, Dibrugarh. He especially thanked the brother and nephew of Fr. Louis. He thanked all the priests and religious and laity as well as the Seminarians of St. Joseph’s Seminary who had participated in the Requiem Mass on 5th Sept. He addressed words of gratitude to the catechists, teachers and parishioners of Lakhimpur, Khobong, Tongna, Tinsukia, Doom Dooma, Golaghat, Dibrugarh as well as to the priests and religious of the Dioceses of Kohima, Dibrugarh, Tezpur and to the Salesians of the Provinces of Guwahati, Silchar and Dimapur. He specially thanked the companions of Fr. Louis , namely Fr. T. A. Jose, Fr. Zepherinus Baxla, John Mathew of Silchar and to Fr. Francis Fernandez of Guwahati Province who had come to pray for the soul of their departed companion. Fr. Bosco expressed sincere words of thanks to the Rector and community of Salesian College, Dimapur, who saw to all the arrangements for the funeral of Fr. Louis Tirkey sdb. …..DL Correspondent
“The holy Rosary is a powerful weapon. Use it with confidence and you’ll be amazed at the results.” -St. Josemaria
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that had to be done as a group, any initiative that had to be taken as he was one the taller, bigger , older and more experienced of the group. He did not shrink the responsibility nor did he think that we were exploiting him. That is the memory that comes to me about him. He was always friendly and available. And as Fr. Nestor mentioned he was very cheerful and brought lot of joy and happiness in the group. We were 13 of us from Guwahati when we made our Novitiate in 1972 and professed in 1973. There were 13 others from Calcutta Province, probably the smallest group of Novices. But we had a very good time. He was a good sportsman. Being tall he was good basketball and volleyball player and we would encourage him as a champion.
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ARUNACHAL HONOURS FR. CYRIAC WITH A GOLD MEDAL
of Don Bosco’s birth. Don Bosco spent his life teaching useful trades to youngsters. The gold medalist is treading the sure beaten path of the charismatic founder in “empowering youth and enriching nation” – the motto of the Youth Centre in Itanagar. Any public acknowledgement of the Catholic Church’s contribution to the society is a matter of pride for us all, and we congratulate Fr. Cyriac for the award received. …….Fr. Kallikaden Cyprian sdb
th
At the 69 Independence Day celebrations in Itanagar, the Chief Minister Shri Nabam Tuki announced the awarding of five gold medals, ten silver medals and thirteen commendation certificates for meritorious services rendered. Among the gold-medal recipients was Fr. Cyriac Pulinthanathumalayil S.D.B., the founder-director of Don Bosco Youth Centre in Itanagar. His programmes aimed at developing skills in computer, hospitality, spa and beauty, retail, travel and tourism, spoken English and other soft skills have opened up fresh avenues to hundreds of job-seekers from the state. His novel idea of developing the personality and leadership skills of the candidates during a home-stay or hostelexperience, before they venture out of the state for further training and placement, has enhanced the success rate of the programmes. Prior to his appointment in Itanagar, Fr. Cyriac had initiated similar activities at his Youth Centre of Khonsa in Tirap district. The recognition of Fr. Cyriac’s con-
tribution has coincided with the celebration of the bicentenary Dimapur Links
HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS TO FR. G. J. JOSHUA
Heartiest Congratulations to Rev. Fr. G. J. Joshua sdb, Principal of Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur. On 4 Sep. 2015 he was awarded the state level Teacher Award by Shri Yitachu, Education Minister (SCERT), Nagaland, in a glittering ceremony in the state capital, Kohima. ...DL Correspondent
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Youth Meet for “Better Youth, Better World” was held at Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur, on 27 September to commemorate the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco. About 500 young people from 42 centres (hostels and villages) participated in the event. The Chief Guest at the cultural function Dr. E. Thomas Kikon, Addl. Director, Dept of Geology and Mining Govt. of Nagaland urged the youth ‘to be the change they want to see in others’. Appreciating the contribution of schools, hostels, colleges and churches, he said such institutions are the best means to disseminate human values. The day was inaugurated by garlanding of the statue of Don Bosco by his Lordship Rt. Rev. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima who later presided over the Eucharistic Celebration. Bishop James in homily exhorted the youth to share responsibility in building society. He said the youth must learn to accommodate one another, respect the differences in other persons and communities to form a peaceful society. Rev. Fr. Nebu Mathew, the Provincial Economer of Dimapur Province, hoisted the Youth Meet flag. In his message Fr. Mathew said Youth must work on their intellectual, human and character formation to be good citizens.
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Fr. Sebastian Jose the Vice—Rector of Salesian College while welcoming the youth said the youth are a gigantic force which can transform and regenerate our society. The day was marked by animation programs on the theme “Better Youth, Better World”. Prizes and certificates were given away to the winners of Bosco Quiz 2015 and enterprising leaders of the various centres. Fr. Christudoss, the Youth Director while thanking everyone said, ‘youth you are the agent of change. Carry this message to your home and society. ...Fr. Policarp, Salesian College
Suggestions for the Leaders in making 1. Keep confidence – mouth shut
2. Give orders to man in charge, not to the people. 3. Never do anything in anger. 4. If you can’t say anything nice, keep quiet. 5. Changing habits takes long, keep on plucking at it. 6. Little touches – Enquire about sick employee or wife 7. Make them to get interested about the job. 8. Help as much as possible, go to their houses when invited. 9. Trust begets trust, no detective work. 10. Special gifts to one, make others jeal ous. 11. Know the names of your employees. 12. Give a spot of space; he won’t grow too big for his boots. 13. Make sure you understand, don’t get the wrong end of the stick. 14. Give clearly defined responsibilities, know where job begins or ends. 29
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BICENTENARY YOUTH MEET 2015
15. Encourage questions, if you don’t know the answer acknowledge. 16. Let subordinates be encouraged to take decisions, otherwise expect bottleneck 17. Gather all the facts before deciding. 18. Emphasize good points, soft peddle the bad ones. 19. Praise before pointing out defects. 20. Even an audience of one person is one person too many, when giving corrections. 21. Be an example, walking, talking, clothes, family life, (wife beating) 22.Never allow to be licked by problems. They’ll always be there. It’s your job. 23. Try to build up people, then they will build you- build up friendships.
36. Don’t boss around, can’t cut any ice. They will take you for a big pompous blown up balloon, Instead be humble. 37.Crisis inevitable, try to foresee and find remedy. 38. Don’t act on first impulse, do so after knowing different points of view. 39. Keep plugging, don’t give up. 40. No ordering, instead “would you mind, could etc.” 41. Consult people concerned, if not you hurt pride and they will not cooperate. 42. Train men under you to do your job better. 43. Don’t nag and peck, don’t supervise. 44. Tell details of plans and programs.
24. Good human relationships cannot be delegated.
45. Have constructive view of mistakes, Be concerned on avoiding future mistakes.
25. Cool off if you are boiling.
46. Don’t allow barriers between you and workers
26. Patching up mistakes is very important. 27. Your men will respect you no end if you act straight, no convenient memory. 28. Blue eyed boy- favouritism can be terribly upsetting. 29. Life span is short, not worth getting hot and bothered with problems. 30. Discuss the order with those who have to carry it out. 31. Don’t stifle criticism, bottled up resentments will explode later. 32. You can never get perfect employees, Wade in and do the best with the people you have. 33. Don’t be foolish secretively, if you do garbled versions will come out. 34. Be sensitive to people’s thoughts and feelings, while intent on getting things done. 35. A privilege once given is difficult to cancel. Be careful before introducing new. Dimapur Links
47. They are not chess pieces, they may like to take initiatives, let them. 48. A spot of praise does any amount of good. 49. Admit errors, it’s the mark of a big man. 50. Never brush off even the lowest, for him, he is the most important person. …...Fr. Joe Eda’s Collections
“The greatest method of praying is to pray the Rosary.” – Saint Francis de Sales 30