July -August 2017

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Contents

Page Editorial................................................................... 01 APJ Kalam’s Vision for India.............................. 02 Working for the Glory of God............................. 03 Doimukh in a Glance............................................. 04 Doom Dooma: A Short History........................... 06 Qualitative Communication................................. 08 Final Vows........................................................... . . 10 First Step in Salesian Life................................... 10 DBHSS Wokha goes Robotic................................. 10 SCERT Career Guidance...................................... 11 DB Alumni: Blood Donation.................................. 12 DBCK with EASTERINE KIRE.................................. 12 Hearty Congratulations to:................................. 13 Career Guidance at DBS, Khoupum................... 13 Fr. Thomas Kalapurackal Honoured................... 14 Rendezvous 16 Awarded...................................... 15 Salesian Family...................................................... 17 Annual Youth Retreat........................................... 18 BCTE:Academic Year & Freshers’ Day............. 18 In a Lighter Mood................................................... 19 Provincial Chapter & Platinum Jubiee.............. 20 Bishop James on Clean Election........................ 21 John Shilshi: On Right Career............................ 23 Value and Importance of Education.................. 23 Faith Fest at Zeliangrong village....................... 24 SCHE Diphupar Angami turns Silver................. 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 Rainbow Advertising, Guwahati-1 Editorial Office Bosco Communications Provincial House, Dimapur, Nagaland +91 -9436062842 Email: frjonassdb@gmail.com

INTO THAT HEAVEN OF FREEDOM...

Welcome back to the celebration of the twin freedoms – first, the freedom of Mother Mary’s virginal body from dissolution into dust. The second is the Independence of mother India from political subjugation to the British. But while Mary’s freedom is final and complete, is India fully free?

Former Indian President APJ Kalam had three clear visions for India: India that is free, developed and self-confident.

India today is much better known and respected world-wide, thanks to the indefatigable sojourns of our globe-trotting Prime Minister.

Some development too has been achieved, but far below the tall promises and high expectations.

Thousands of desperate, debt-ridden farmers continue to commit suicide. The promised job creations for the youth are far too little. In fact, many have been thrown out of jobs, for instance those surviving on meat and leather-related business.

Freedom, perhaps is the greatest casualty today.

Inter alia, fear-psychosis caused by the ban on cow sale, and beef eating-related mob lynchings, is growing by the day.

On June 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji made an appeal, his second in three years, during a speech in Ahmedabad. It came a day after thousands of citizens in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and other cities protested under the banner, ‘Not in My Name’, decrying the rising number of lynchings and random violence. Within hours of PM Modiji’s condemnation, mob lynchings resurfaced: Alimuddin alias Asgar Ansari was beaten to death on suspicion of carrying beef in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district. In the week that followed, at least three more people were lynched…Hence it is important to recall what Carl Schurz has aptly said, “If you want to be free, there is but one way; it is to guarantee an equally full measure of liberty to all your neighbours. There is no other.”

During this year’s Independence Day celebrations our earnest prayer could be Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s prayer, “Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high: Into that heaven of freedom, my Father let my country awake. Where knowledge is free: Where the world has no t been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls: Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sands of dead habit: Where the mind is led forward

by Thee into ever widening thought and action…”

Jonas Kerketta sdb

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APJ KALAM’S

VISION FOR INDIA are being globally recognized today. Yet we lack the self-confidence to see ourselves as a developed nation, self- reliant and self-assured. Isn’t this incorrect?

(On the occasion of India’s Independence, former Indian President APJ Kalam’s Visions for India, delivered in a speech in Hyderabad, is a ‘priceless treasure’ for every Indian to read and reflect upon) Quote:

I have three visions for India. In 3000 years of our history, people from all over the world have come and invaded us, captured our lands, conquered our minds, from Alexander onwards. The Greeks, the Turks, the Moguls, the Portuguese, the British, the French, the Dutch, all of them came and looted us, took over what was ours. Yet we have not done this to any other nation. We have not conquered anyone. We have not grabbed their land, their culture, their history and tried to enforce our way of life on them. Why? Because we respect the freedom of others. That is why my first vision is that of FREEDOM. I believe that India got its first vision of this in 1857, when we started the war of independence. It is this freedom that we must protect and nurture and build on. If we are not free, no one will respect us.

My second vision for India is DEVELOPMENT. For fifty years we have been a developing nation. It is time we see ourselves as a developed nation. We are among top 5 nations of the world in terms of GDP. We have 10 percent growth rate in most areas. Our poverty levels are falling. Our achievements

I have a third vision. India must stand up to the world. Because I believe that unless India stands up to the world, no one will respect us. Only strength respects strength. We must be strong not only as a military power but also-as an economic power. Both must go hand-in-hand. My good fortune was to have worked with three great minds. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai of the Dept. of space, Professor Satish Dhawan, who succeeded him and Dr. Brahm Prakash, father of nuclear material.

I was lucky to have worked with all three of them closely and consider this the great opportunity of my life. ..”

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- Fr. Tom Karthik sdb, Rector, SCHE, Dimapur

WORKING FOR THE GLORY OF GOD Lord, you taught us to pray, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done” To seek your glory and your will alone in everything Is the call you make to us as we live our life on this earth.

And piously we do say “I want to work only for the glory of God”

Son, what does working for the glory of God really mean?

To work with pure intention, without selfish motives.

For you can say with your lips, ‘I’m working for the glory of God’

And then in reality seek to do your will, trying to please yourself.

If you work for my glory your focus will not be on the outcome, But purely on me and my pleasure and my will alone.

If success is your aim and human praise is what you seek, You may not be working for the glory of God, as you often say.

Why do you feel sad when you meet with failure?

Why do you get discouraged if your work produces no fruit?

Why fret and worry if no one appreciates what you do?

Why get angry and irritated if no one thanks you?

This may show that you are not working for the glory of God. For sadness comes because you failed to find your glory Not because God, who watches your effort, did not get glory, For God can get glory even when your work ends in failure.

Examples are countless where people worked for my glory

And all their effort ended up in sheer failure

Facing ridicule and opposition on all sides

Getting not a word or praise or appreciation from anyone Success cannot be measured merely by human standard For what may appear as success by human standard May prove to be an utter failure by divine standard.

For success that has no heavenly value is the real failure.

Lord, I measured my success by the praise I got from men

And I brought all my success in a basket to offer to you.

But I was surprised to hear you say on opening the basket

“Son, You have brought me an empty basket” For the basket I thought contained so much, When opened in front of you was completely empty.

Years I have wasted gathering treasures of success, But now I see what I gathered was just morning dew.

Purify my intentions, 0 Lord, That whatever I do

May be done solely with pure intention for your glory

Accepting failures with equal joy that success brings

For what matters is not failure or success, but your Glory alone

Fr. Tom Karthik sdb, Salesian College, Dimapur

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DOIMUKH IN A GLANCE

Fr. C. C. Joseph sdb had bought Four and a half hectares of land from Mr. Tana Hali Joseph at Yupia, headquarter of Papum Pare District in Arunachal Pradesh. On 18 March 2002 Bishop Thomas Menamparampil blessed the foundation of the new building there. On 31 August 2002 Bishop Robert Kerketta blessed the newly constructed building.

On 14 December 2002 Fr. P. T. Dominic sdb began residing at Yupia looking after 25 villages. Another plot was purchased from Dr. Rade Gangte in 2003.

In January 2004 Fr. Rashmi Ranjan Toppo sdb joined as Asst. parish Priest. On 25 May Fr. Christopher Minj sdb replaced him.

Fr. Kunayanattu Binu sdb of Bangalore Province joined the Yupia community on 30 January 2007 Innovative Approach to Rural Education

Innovative Approach to Rural Education (IATRE) at Yupia was started on 31 January 2003. It is an abridged intensive course through which poor school drop-outs or over-aged children could reach Class VI in 2-3 years. Its twin aims were helping poor children as well as faith formation. The project was aided by the Salesian Rector and Fr. Francis Alencherry sdb, the councilor for the missions. By 2007 there were 95 resident students with some day scholars and were schooled by six teachers and three non-teaching staff.

Mangyanam Arunachal Pradesh

In 2004 ‘Mangyanam Arunachal Pradesh’ (MAP), a registered society with its own ‘Foreign Contribution Regulation Act’ (FCRA) was introduced. ‘Mangyanam’ means hope. The society carried several developmental activities with financial support from Indo Global Social Service Society (IGSSS). It had surveyed 25 villages and entered into a long-term partnership with IGSSS for a holistic development of 12 villages of the parish.

By 2007 MAP had 15 Self-Help Groups (SHG) with activities like candle making, poultry farming, pineapple gardening, etc. Each SHG had its own bank account and monthly savings. Manos Unidas introduced another project of training in knitting, weaving, tailoring, candle making, and mushroom cultivation, to be implemented by May 2007.

Don Bosco School Doimukh

Doimukh, around six kms from Yupia and 40 kms from Itanagar, is the birth place of Nyeder Namlo and a stronghold of native religion Donyi Polo. Gradually some of its staunch proponents embraced Catholic faith.

In February-March 2005, five acres of land was bought by Fr. P. T. Dominic sdb from Mr. Tana Tahin. Another two acres were purchased from Mr. Taba Tagur in 2006. On 15 May 2006 classes started for the K. G. and Nursery with 28 students with two teachers in a make-shift structure. On the same day

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Infant Jesus Parish Doimukh

On 31 August 2002 Bishop Robert Kerketta of Tezpur announced the establishment of Doimukh mission centre with Fr. Dominic Pendanath sdb as in charge. In 2005 Bishop Robert officially erected Doimukh church as a parish under the name of Infant Jesus Parish and Fr. Dominic as its Parish Priest. In 2004 six villages of Doimukh were given to the new Parish of Naharlagun.

The Silver Jubilee of the Catholic Church of Gumto (Mary Help of Christians), the first church in West Arunachal Pradesh, was celebrated on 7-8 December 2004. Present on the occasion were Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati, Bishop Robert Kerketta of Tezpur, Fr. Kulandaiswamy, Fr. C. C. Jose sdb, Mr. Wanglet (then Home Minister), Mr. Takam Sanjay (MLA), Mr. Tadar Taniang (ex-Minister), besides numerous Priests, Sisters and faithful. During the celebration the first Catholics like Mr. Tana Tomu (Fr. Kulandaiswamy’s first catechist), Mr. Debiya Kojum, Mr. Nabam Tana and other Catholic leaders who had braved the persecutions for their faith, were honoured.

The D-Day for the prayer centre came when Fr. Mathew Naikomparambil VC, one of the founders of the Divine Retreat Centre, Muringor blessed the Divine Retreat Centre at Gumto on 15 November 2006. Fr. Augustine VC was appointed as the first director.

From 26 December, a week-long residential retreat was organized from the first day of every month. Retreats are also conducted for the catechists of other parishes at the request of the Bishop or the concerned parish priests. Night vigils on second Saturdays of every month started from January 2007.

In Charges/Parish Priests

Fr. Dominic Pendanath sdb (20022007), Fr. Sebastian Thuruthiyil sdb (2008- ).

Others

Fr. Rashmi Ranjan Toppo sdb, Fr. Christopher Minj sdb, Fr. Kunayanattu Binu George sdb, Fr. K. Linson Louise sdb, Fr. Kalappurayil George sdb.

- DL Correspondent

On 10 February 2006 Fr. Francis Alencherry sdb, councillor for the missions, blessed the foundation of the parish church.

Currently there are over 3,000 Catholics in 25 villages with 16 village catechists and three touring catechists. Today there are students in Don Bosco School. There are boys and girls in the boardings.

In the 2017 ICSE final examinations DBS Doimukh fared excellently well. All the 15 candidates passed, 14 in the 1st Division and one in the 2nd Division.

Gumto Divine Prayer Centre Many Catholics were being lost due to Revival-Pentecostal attempts at proselytization. In 2004 Mr. Nabam Tullon, a Catholic leader of Gumto village requested Fr. Pendanath to send a catechist to Gumto for the faith formation of the Catholics. Fr. Pendanath contacted Mr. Anthony Chacko of Divine Retreat Centre at Muringor, Kerala. The latter brought Devadass, Jijo Francis and John to Yupia on 22 May 2004.

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A SHORT HISTORY OF CATHOLIC CHURCH

DOOM DOOMA

Fr. Leo Piasecki sdb, the undaunted and tireless missionary of Assam valley used to come from Guwahati and visit the communities of this region in the 1920s.

After him, Bishop Marengo, then an energetic young priest, Fr. Cerato, Fr. Boscardin, Fr. Daniel, Fr. Louis Kerketta and Fr. Gerald Mandeville and other Salesians used to tour this area from Dibrugarh.

Initially the Doom Dooma mission was looked after from Dibrugarh. As the mission developed it was decided to begin a new centre there. With this intention in mind, a small strip of land was acquired during the period of the World War II. However the land was found unsuitable and was exchanged for 11 acres of land from Beesakoopie Tea Garden. During this period the mission was looked after by Fr. Boscardin, the Parish Priest of Dibrugarh and Fr. Louis Kerketta, the touring priest for Doom Dooma area. Slowly a thatched house was built here to shelter the first resident Parish Priest of Doom Dooma.

In 1947 Fr. Gerald Mandeville was put in charge of Doom Dooma. A small chapel with bamboo and thatch was built in the mission land in 1949. In 1951, a new Church was built, with wooden posts. In 1952 Fr. Gerald Mandeville was officially appointed to begin the centre. The mission of Doom Dooma was opened on 6 November 1952 and Fr. Gerald Mandeville was appointed its first Parish Priest. He constructed three small sheds serving as the Confreres’ Residence,

Church and the Sisters’ Quarters respectively. The Fathers’ residence was completed and blessed in April 1954, while the school was blessed in January 1955 by Rev. Fr. Renato Ziggioti, the then Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The church construction soon began and was blessed on 10 October 1959 by Bishop Orestes Marengo.

On 5 May 1964, Fr. Gerald left for Belgium and Fr. Harold Shrieves was appointed the care-taker of the parish. Fr. Mathew Uzhunnalil sdb became the Parish Priest of Doom Dooma after Fr. Gerald. Fr. Mathew Narimattam took charge as the third Parish Priest of Doom Dooma on 16 September 1973.

In 1976, the new Parish of Margherita was carved out of Doom Dooma. Philobari, a diocesan parish was carved out of Doom Dooma in 1981. In 1979 Fr. Chacko Kakkanatt took charge of the Parish as the fourth Parish Priest of Doom Dooma. Tongna was bifurcated from Doom Dooma in 1983 and erected as a new parish. In 1986, Fr. Thomas Kannath, became the fifth Parish Priest of Doom Dooma. It was during his tenure that the construction of the present presbytery was taken up and completed. In 1992, Fr. Mathew Narimattam was appointed as the Parish Priest of Doom Dooma for a second time. He completed and blessed the hostel building started by Fr. Thomas Kannath.

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On 10 January 1995, Fr. Benjamin Toppo, came to Doom Dooma to take charge as the seventh Parish Priest. On 4 February 2001, Fr. Jerome Minj was appointed as the Parish Priest of Doom Dooma. In 2007 May Fr. Sebastian Jose took over as Rector and Parish Priest. In 2007 June, the new Parish of Khobong (with 14 villages) was carved out of Doom Dooma parish with Fr. Jerome Minj as its first Parish Priest. In June 2008 Fr. Hilarius Ekka was appointed Parish Priest. On 28 June 2015 Fr. Rajesh Lakra took over as the Parish Priest.

The centre has a Parish, a High School, a Junior College, a Hostel and a Social Service Wing – Agency for Growth and Uplift of All (AGUA). The Catholics number around 8000 in 1655 Families. The High School has around 1615 students and the College around 190 students.

In the HSLC Examinations, Don Bosco Doomdooma came out with the successful results . In all, 149 appeared, 141 passed, out of whom 116 in the first division, 25 in second division, making a percentage of about 95% passed. There were 377 students with Letter Marks, 39 with Star Marks, 27, Distinctions, three of whom with 100 marks.

Kannath (1986-1992), Mathew Narimattam sdb (1992-1995), Benjamin Toppo sdb (19952001), Jerome Minj sdb (2001-2007), Aerimattathil Sebastian sdb (2007-2008), Hilarius Ekka sdb (2008-2015), Rajesh Lakra sdb (2015-).

Others:

Frs. O’Brien sdb, Constantine Bili sdb, Joseph Rubio sdb, Leo Piasecki sdb, Broghi sdb, Harold Shrieves sdb, Zanghellini sdb, Cyril Francis sdb, Malayatti Jacob sdb, George Mukala sdb, Pudusssery George sdb, Parakatt Joseph sdb, Thomas Arackal sdb, Paulinus Chempalayil sdb, Theophilus Ganlari sdb, Nazarius Lakra sdb, Kalapurayil George sdb, E. C. Michael sdb, Mathew Pottukkulam sdb, Nathaniel Topno sdb, Thettayil Jose sdb, Kuriakose Palathingal sdb, Shaji Valiaparambil sdb, Aerimattathil Sebastian sdb, Louis Tirkey sdb, Joseph Kindo sdb, Bimal Lakra sdb, George Mukala sdb, Karippai Jose sdb, Stanislaus Kerketta sdb, Devassy Palatty sdb, Tarcisius Toppo sdb, Abhay Baxla sdb, Igness Hans sdb

In HSSLC Examinations, 79 appeared, 63 passed, 31 in the first division, 30 in the second division, 14 in the third division, making a 95% pass percentage.

Parish Priests/In Charges:

Frs. Gerald Mandeville sdb (19521966), Harold Shrieves sdb (1964-1966 as In Charge), Uzhunnalil Mathew sdb (19661973), Mathew Narimattam sdb (1973-1980), Chacko Kakkanatt (1980-1986), Thomas

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FROM QUANTITATIVE TO QUALITATIVE COMMUNICATION

Our present world scenario is bombarded with bounteous, most often superfluous media inputs and expositions. This has a great impact, beneficial as well as harmful, as the communication system has been largely divulged, distorted and confused. We can never deny the significance of a series of development and comfort the modern mass media have brought into our lives. At the same time, the harm and injury that the process and means of communication bring to our daily living need to be addressed urgently.

Why so? As Salesians, working for the youth who are the biggest target of media today, it is our bounden duty to educate and save them from the clutches of this attractive deception.

Quantitative Communication

Quantitative communication in its simplest form is a process of communication in which the number of the receivers of the message is given more importance over what is being communicated, the message. Very often today, the focus of mass media tends towards this type of communication. Values are being discarded and commercial benefits are prioritized. The success of communication is measured not in terms of the good it does on the audience but in terms of the greatest number of audience it has. An event wherein a politician addresses thousands of people in a political gathering is a good example for this.

Here, the success of the communication is determined not by the message given out and the response of the audience, but by the number of

the people who have gathered. Such practices occur in different forms of communication.

Consumerist Attitude

Another result of quantitative communication is the consumerist attitude of the people who are the target of this communication. William Bernbach has said, “All of us who professionally use the mass media are the shapers of society. We can vulgarize that society. We can brutalize it.

Or we can help lift it on to a higher level.�

The first lines are already the happenings of our daily lives. Due to the quantifying nature of this communication, society has been stratified between the haves and have-nots.

It has created a culture in which people, especially in the Indian context, no longer value their own traditional lifestyles and cultural values. The lives of most individuals are being governed by the preoccupation of status, social acceptance, peer pressure, ostentation, the fear of what people will say as a result of this type of communication.

Persuasive Power

Another method that quantitative communication successfully utilizes is media persuasion. By creating an attractive and sensational environment for the audience, it tries its best to win over their attention. The messages it creates here are often fake and more often lasting only for a few moments. Thus through quantitative communication we are not able to carry out a genuine and successful

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sharing of meanings and values in our lives.

Qualitative Communication

By qualitative communication, I mean a communication in which the three main elements of communication, viz. sender, message and receiver have equal importance.

Unlike the quantitative communication wherein the number of the receivers takes precedence over the other elements, here, the sender and the receiver are concretely active in the co-production of meaningful and beneficial messages for both the parties.

A 20th Century Christian philosopher, Bernard Lonergan has an interesting conception of communication in which communication is not just a transmission of knowledge or information but a sharing of meanings and values among people. He terms it a mutual self-mediation in context. This communication leads to the emergence and sharing of unbiased insights and undistorted values. People, in this way, are able to transform their universe mediated by meaning and motivated by values.

The two noteworthy principles of qualitative communication are that of being dynamic and transformative. It is dynamic in the sense that critiques, initiatives and dialogues are welcome at any moment. It is not static but is always on the move, improvising

and renewing. It is ever open to suggestions for its improvement for the entire system of communication. Mutual transformation happens in this communication. There is a coproduction, co-creation and co-operation as a result of its mutual transformative nature.

The need of the hour is to shift from the quantitative communication to the qualitative communication. How? We need to make people especially the young to realize that true communication is not a linear directional neither is it a process in which any of the elements is more important than the other. It is a mutual process in which the sender shares a meaningful message with the receiver who in turn responds. It is not a bombardment of information, insight or resources to the audience. It is a co-sharing of values, meanings and, in short, lives. It is a subject-oriented, not in the sense of the overemphasis on the number, but inasmuch as human persons are actively involved in it in sharing meanings and values. The aim of communication should be solely this i.e. mutual sharing. Other benefits such as monetary, fame, etc. should be considered secondary.

Qualitative communication over quantitative communication would then surely make human relationships valuable and worthwhile.

- Dominic Eddie Ralte sdb, Salesian College, Dimapur

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Clerics Sandeep Barla, Panmei Imchamngam Paul and Varengnao Yursem David made their perpetual profession at St. John Bosco Church, Tinsukia, on 21 May 2017.

FINAL VOWS

Br. Tuti Alexius pronounced his final vows on 22 May at Rua Home, Jorhat. As an immediate preparation for this solemn event, they were animated by Fr. Mathew Pulingathil sdb on 20 May 2017. Kudos to the four ‘brave hearts’.

DL Correspondant

FIRST STEP IN THE SALESIAN LIFE

On 24 May 2017, 11 Novices were welcomed in the Salesian Congregation by the Rector Major’s representative, Fr. Nestor Guria sdb (IND Provincial). These Novices who made their First Religious Profession at Salesian Novitiate, Zubza, include Cl. Indwar Savio (IND), Cl. Kadena Elow Mario (IND), Cl. Kamei Gaisinrei Elias (IND), Cl. Kerketta Vijay Anthony (IND), Br. Lating Kupar Bajanai Leonard (ING), Cl. Lerüna Phikow Paul (IND), Cl. Ngümei Namkoi Jacob (IND), Cl. Phimu Athili Romeo (IND), Porathur Rince Jose (IND), Cl. Purty Emmanuel (IND),and Cl. Zhemai Reuben Dominic (IND).

They had been given a thorough immediate preparation through a well-preached Retreat by Fr. Chittissery Joseph sdb.

DL Correspondant

DBHSS WOKHA

GOES

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ROBOTIC

A national level championship programme on robotics was organized by the Indian Institute of Guwahati, in collaboration with TECHTRON Technologies on a zonal basis on 13-14 July 2017 at Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School (DBHSS), Wokha in Nagaland.

The workshop was coordinated by the zonal coordinator, Deepjyoti Das of DBHSS Wokha, in collaboration with Techniche, IIT Guwahati and Techtron ’17.

The resource person, Pankaj Kumar Singh, using power-point presentations and hands-on approach, dealt with various topics such as wireless robotics programme, different kinds of robots such as line-follower robots and remote-controlled robots, the current

market scenario of robotics, sensors, motors, career scope of robotics in automation companies and many other latest updates.

The two-day workshop contained both theoretical as well as practical sessions. Eleven groups comprising five students each participated along with the host school. Four schools from the Zone, namely Bethel High School, DBHSS, Perennial Montesori School, and Fernbrook School, were selected to participate in the grand finale at IIT Guwahati. Certificates of participation and merit certificates were distributed by the Wokha DBHSS principal, Fr. Joseph Thettayil sdb during the valedictory function.

Courtesy: Nagaland Post, Dimapur, 23 July 2017

SCERT CONDUCTS CAREER CONFERENCE FOR STUDENTS preparing for civil service examination. “It is only when you bring about positive change in the life of people that you can call yourself a successful person” she said while encouraging the students to read newspapers and magazines and stay up to date.

The guidance and counseling cell of SCERT, Nagaland, organized a career conference for 655 selected students of Don Bosco College and Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Kohima on 14 July 2017 at DBHSS with Sarita Yadav IAS, SDO (Civil) office of the ADC, Peren, Kelhousetuo Nakhro, Deputy Secretary, NPSC Kohima and C. Wangam Phom, NCS (EAC), Kohima as resource persons.

Sarita Yadav, IAS, SDO (Civil) spoke on ‘How to prepare for civil service examination conducted by UPSC. She highlighted the basic minimum requirement, the examination process, change in the examination scheme, the subject areas that one must focus on and also recommended good study materials for one’s reference that will help in

Kelhousetuo Nakhro, Deputy Secretary of The NPSC told how the NPSC examinations are conducted in Nagaland.

He offered some tips on how to prepare for the same and also cautioned the students that the government is not able to provide jobs for all. He revealed that Kohima Science College and SSARD Medziphema are the two institutions that produced quality and successful students who cleared NPSC.

The third session was addressed by C. Wangam Phom, NCS (EAC), Kohima. He spoke on how to prepare for the civil service examination conducted by the NPSC and how he himself prepared for and managed to crack the examination. He said the problem of unemployment is on the increase, the number of posts are decreasing and only hard working people are able to achieve success.

Courtesy: The Morung Express, Dimapur, 15 July 2017

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DB ALUMNI

ORGANIZE

BLOOD DONATION DRIVE

Don Bosco Alumni Association, Dimapur (DBAAD), organized a blood donation drive on 19 July 2017 with the theme “Care and Share” at Dimapur Civil Hospital.

Dr. T. Temsu, MO Blood Bank Civil Hospital, shared his experience with the DBAAD members and encouraged them to keep up the good work. DBAAD president, Imti Imsong, and treasurer, Anand Sethi thanked Dr. Temsu for sharing his valuable experience and for his dedicated service to the society.

Courtesy: Eastern Mirror, Dimapur, 21 July 2017

DBCK STUDENTS INTERACT WITH EASTERINE KIRE

The Literary Club of Don Bosco College, Kohima (DBCK) organized an invited talk on 20 July 2017 with renowned writer Dr. Easterine Kire as the guest speaker. The Department of English comprising 88 students and four professors attended the programme. Dr. Easterine in her address told the students, “We have so much oral narratives but with oral (tradition) dying out, it’s all going to be lost.” She highlighted oral tradition, taboos and native metaphors.

The students interacted with her during the interactive session. The programme

was chaired by Vimenuo Lhough, while Keneipounuo Rutsa and Keneigulie read the Word of God and prayed for the gathering. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Toshimelathe, Asst. Professor of DBCK. Vote of thanks was proposed by Pelhoulneinou Kiewhuo.

The programme concluded with the college anthem, followed by an exhibition of Dr. Easterine Kire’s books which were put on sale.

Dr. Innocent Suresh SDB, DBCK Principal

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HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS TO : Fr. Thomas Pallithanam sdb

Fr. Pallithanam sdb of Hyderabad Salesian Province (INH), who is appointed to represent the Rector Major and the Salesians in the United Nations (UN). He will serve in the department of Youth Pastoral in collaboration with the General Council for Missions and with the Economer General. He succeeds Fr. Thomas Brennan sdb who represented the Salesians at the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 2007 when the Salesians obtained official consultative status.

Fr. Peter Gonsalves sdb

Fr. Peter Gonsalves sdb of Mumbai Salesian Province (INB). On 12 April 2017 Pope Francis appointed 13 new consulters to the Vatican’s Secretariat for Social Communications. Fr. Peter Gonsalves sdb is one among them. He has done commendable work in the media ministry. Inter alia, he coordinated BOSCOM India’s media education book entitled Shepherds For An Information Age. Originally meant for the formation Salesian candidates in social communication at different stages of their religious/priestly training, it was later adapted by CBCI for all seminarians. Currently Fr. Gonsalves is the dean of the Faculty of Social Communication (FSC) at the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS) Rome.

CAREER GUIDANCE AT DBS KHOUPUM

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A ‘Career Guidance cum Orientation’ programme was conducted on 13 to 15th July 2017 in Khoupum village community hall, Manipur. It was animated by Bro. Jimmy Gonmei and Bro. Angel Kuldeep Nayak.

On 13 July the animation on ‘Career Guidance’ was conducted for the class 10 students.

It included career planning and study tips.

The animation began with the invocation of the Holy Spirit. Sr. Sudem Basumatary, Asst.

Headmistress, welcomed the animators.

During the animation, the students were enlightened on ways to build a bright future. They were guided to choose their career and offered the possibilities as they choose their way of life. The animation touched upon some of the fundamental qualities that are essential for leading a successful life like selfconfidence, personality development, discovering one’s talents, etc. Some tips to excel in the academic pursuits were also provided.

On 14 and 15 July, an ‘Orientation Programme’ was conducted for the students of classes 9 and 10. The saying of Roger Babron, “Buried seeds may grow but buried talents never grow” set the programme in proper

tone. The day’s programme included some relevant topics like self-confidence and development of talents. The students were also made aware of the ‘Peer Pressures’ and the ‘Impact of the Social Media’ among the youngsters. The positive and negative elements of media for the students were also discussed.

Besides the inputs on various topics, many lively activities that made the students think differently and creatively were also conducted. The students participated in all the activities with full enthusiasm and vigour. The students applauded and appreciated the programme and resolved to act on the insights that they gained from the animation. Great impact was made on the students’ minds, in knowing themselves more deeply and appreciating their talents and developing them. The input sessions ended with the slogan - ‘Think, Decide and Act’.

Special thanks to the Headmaster, Fr. K. C James sdb, for his keen interest in the well-being and the allround development of the students.

Cl. Kamsuan L. Robin, Bosco B. Ed College, Dimapur

FR. THOMAS KALAPURACKAL HONOURED

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Fr. Thomas Kalapurackal sdb, presently ministering to the Mising tribal community of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, was honoured on 12 June 2017 in his home town of Palavayal, in Kazargode District of Kerala.

He was awarded by the pastor and parishioners of St. John’s Parish, Palavayal, for his 33 years of ministry in Northeast India, especially among the Mising tribal community.

A plaque and a shawl were presented to Fr. Thomas in the presence of about 800 people.

The pastor of the parish, Fr. Thomas Pattamkulam, mentioned that, “it is a matter of pride for the parish of St. John’s, Palavayal, to hear about the excellent missionary work done by Fr. Thomas, and especially to hear about the number of local, national and international awards he has received.

The awards are particularly praiseworthy because they were given for his work for marginalized people, for serving the poor.”

The coordinator of the parish council and Sunday School Headmaster, Mr. Tom Vattoth, gave a short life story of Fr. Thom-

as, and elaborated on the number of awards received by him in various fora. He said, “Fr. Thomas is so near, yet so far. He is from our church, but works about 3000 km away in Northeast India. We hardly see him, except when he comes for his home visit and that too with young people of Northeast India.”

In his thanksgiving address Fr. Thomas said: “I stand in the middle, as Pope Francis mentioned, in Northeast India, looking at the periphery, serving those who matter most, the under privileged. I was anointed at my priestly ordination, with the sacred chrism in this parish, and sent to the periphery.”

At the conclusion of his address to the parishioners, Fr. Thomas knelt in the middle, asking the people to pray over him.

Fr. Thomas was ordained in St. John’s parish, on the day the new church was consecrated, on 26 December, 1983.

Fr. Benny James sdb, Dimapur

SCHE’S “RENDEZVOUS 16” RECEIVES AWARD

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“RENDEZVOUS 16”, the annual college magazine of Salesian College of Higher Education (SCHE), Dimapur, was awarded ‘Special Jury Award’ in a glittering ceremony held in the Landmark Hotel, Guwahati on 29 July 2017. “MOSAIC 2016” of St. Anthony’s College, Shillong too was awarded the ‘Special Jury Award’. The award consisted of a Certificate and a (bronze) Memento and a cash prize of Rs.5,000/-. Fr. Jonas Kerketta sdb, accompanied by Fr. Anthony Chritudoss sdb, received the award on behalf of the SCHE Principal, Dr. (Fr.) Policarp Xalxo sdb and the editorial team of “Rendezvous 16”.

The magazine competition was organized by the 2nd Northeast College Magazine Competition” under the aegis of USTM (University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya) and ERDF Guwahati (Education, Research & Development Foundation) Guwahati, on the occasion of USTM Public Relations Day 2017.

Under the Best Magazine category the first three prizes were bagged by “ALOCHANI” of Digboi College (Assam), “JABIAN” of J. B. College and “LAKHIMPUR GIRLS COLLEGE MAGAZINE” of Lakhimpur Girls College. The prizes consisted of a certificate, a bronze plague and a laptop computer.

the felicitation of the chief guest, followed by the welcome address of Prof. Amarjyoti Choudhury (CV Raman Chair Professor, USTM). The USTM Report Card was presented by Shri Mahbubul Hoque (Chancellor, USTM & ERDF Chairman). A talk on “Social Media is the New Conventional Media” was delivered by Shri Mrinal Talukdar (Eminent Journalist, Pratidin Times). Shri PJ Baruah (Executive Editor, The Assam Tribune) spoke on “Role of Print Media & Rural Institutions”. The august gathering was addressed

by Dr. Dhiraj Bora (Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Assam Science & Technology University) and by Shri RS Mooshahary (Hon’ble Former Governor of Meghalaya). Prof. NK Chaudhury (Principal Adviser, ERDF) gave the Presidential Remark. Prof. Alaka Sarma (Dean, SSS & H and Students’ Welfare, USTM) proposed the Vote of Thanks. The day’s mega event was skillfully managed by Dr. Alpana Choudhury (USTM CPRO) and Hamad M. A. R. Berlashker (Tangent, CEO).

Fr. Anthony Christudoss sdb, SCHE, Dimapur

The USTM PR Day was also marked by the presentation of awards to prominent media persons: Nitumoni Saikia (Editor in Chief, Pratidin Times), Prasanta Rajguru (Executive Editor, Amar Axom), Snigdha Sikha Bora (DY 365), Chaya Moni Bhuyan (Political Editor, News Live), Nasreen Habib (Editor, Eclectic), Mamta Misra (The Assam Tribune), Bireshwar Das (Dainik Jugasankha) and Ms. Emilo Konyak (Correspondent, Nagaland Post).

Cottonian by Cotton College was adjudged winner under the Best Cover category.

Manash Pratim Rajbanshi, a 4th Semester student of Nalbari College won award for his article ‘Moraha Fulor Xuban’ under the Best Article category. Dipsikha Baruah of Digboi College won the Best Woman Editor award. Priyanka Nath, a 6th Semester student of K. C. Das Commerce College received the Best Woman Writer award for her article ‘Nishigandha’.

The USTM PR Day 2017 began with

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SALESIAN FAMILY DAY

On 28 May 2017, the annual Salesian Family Day was held at the provincial house, Dimapur. Besides the Salesians, there were representatives from the FMA, MSMHC, Co-operators and Past Pupils.

This year the Co-operators were more in number than in the previous years, thanks to the delegate, Fr. Theotimus Lakra sdb and the Co-ordinator Mr. Joseph Adani.

After words of introduction, the provincial switched on the light around the picture of Don Bosco and then spoke words of welcome on his own behalf. Three entertainment items were performed by the girls of Auxilium Convent, Dimapur and St Mary’s Padum Pukhri as well as by the Brothers of Salesian College.

The province delegate, Fr. CM Joseph in his speech mentioned how the Salesian Family has been put under the Rector Major himself, supervised by his delegate. He reminded the members assembled about the decisions taken in the meeting of last year especially the one about holding regional level Salesian Family Day. He thanked Fr. CT Varghese who was the Salesian Family Delegate up to now, for the beautiful way he had been organizing this day.

The day’s animation was on the theme of the Strenna “We are Family! Every home a school of life and love”. Fr. CT Varghese, Rector of Don Bosco Dimapur, gave a brief introduction. Then with the help of students from Don Bosco Kohima, St Mary’s Padum Pukhri and Don Bosco Dimapur, a panel discussion was conducted under the guidance of Sr. Lucy MFA of LFS Kohima and Sr.

Agnes MSMHC of Padum Pukhri. All appreciated the novel way of animating on the Strenna which saw lively participation.

After the group photo, Fr Provincial officiated at the Eucharistic celebration. Before the sumptuous lunch which was prepared by Fr. Thomas Kalluvelil, the administrator of the provincial house, a Family cake was cut by representatives of all groups.

In the afternoon session, there was a brief group discussion in which some sharing took place on how we could accompany parents, children and youth in their family situations. In the general assembly, the findings of the group discussions were shared. Fr Provincial concluded the Family Day thanking all for the active participation. The meeting concluded with a hymn to Don Bosco.

Fr. Chittissery Joseph (CM), Don Bosco Kohima

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ANNUAL YOUTH RETREAT 2017

“One who walks in integrity will be safe, but whoever follows crooked ways will fall into the pit” (Proverbs 28:18). Sometimes youth in their youthfulness are reckless and careless. They do a lot of good and at the same time they are impetuous and rash. But the moment they make blunder they want to reform. Retreat is an occasion for them to examine and inspect their inner and personal life.

It was 27 July, 2017, Thursday. Margherita Retreat chapel was packed to capacity. As the sound of preaching and praise filled the compound, 1100 youth (about 600 girls and 500 boys) went in different directions to look for their priests. With true repentance in their hearts they knelt and made their confessions with true sorrow. Retreat preachers had touched their hearts and

youth knew their loving and compassionate fatherly God. 11confessors sat patiently for three hours and a half. According to simple calculation each priest absolved 100 repentant prodigal sons and daughters.

It was a spectacle and display of faith in God and repentance of their past sins.

Many boys and girls came with pages of their sins determined to get rid of them. What a wonderful grace God offered to those young men and women. It was truly wonderful to see the positive and optimistic response of these young people. We thank the priests who look after the retreat centre for affording such a wonderful opportunity to these young boys and girls. May God help them to live true Christian life in the coming years!

Fr. Nazarius Lakra sdb

BCTE celebrates New Academic Year cum Fresher’s Day

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Bosco College of Teacher Education (BCTE) Dimapur, held its New Academic Year cum Fresher’s Day 2017 on 4 August.

The day’s programme commenced with Lighting of the Lamp by Fr. Nestor Guria sdb, Provincial and chief guest of the day, by Fr. (Dr.) A. J. Sebastian sdb, former professor and HoD of English department, Nagaland Central University, and by one teacher and student representatives. A prayer dance by Valen & Co. added a spiritual element to the celebration. The 3rd Sem. Students welcomed the new comers with a melodious song. Mr. Peihimdai welcomed the new comers in the name of the 3rd Sem. Students. A Bollywood medley danced by the nimble dancers led by Christina and Co. left everyone spellbound.

BCTE Principal Fr. (Dr.) T. C. Joseph sdb welcomed the guests and students, particularly the 100 new students of the 1st Semester.

He also reminded the students to personalize the ten points given by St. John Bosco as guiding principles for teachers to follow as they educate the youth to be worthy citizens in the future. He said many of these principles proposed by Don Bosco nearly 200 years back, are being now introduced in the education system of the day, like avoidance of corporal punish-

ment, insistence on discipline, friendly presence of teachers among the students not only in the classroom but also during recreation, etc.

In his speech Fr. (Dr.) A. J. Sebastian sdb, the day’s guest of honour, urged the teacher trainees to give more importance to performance than to obtaining ranks in their studies. He insisted that they should help their students to cultivate three important ‘Qs’ – Intelligence quotient, Emotional quotient and Social quotient.

The chief guest of the day, Fr. Nestor Guria sdb, urged the teacher trainees to have a good knowledge of Don Bosco, the founder of the Salesian Congregation, under whose name this B. Ed College (Bosco College of Teacher Education) is christened.

The 1st Sem. students broke their ice with the presentation of a joyous melody. In between different items of the day’s programme, the new batch of 100 teacher trainees of the BCTE briefly introduced themselves to the assembly. The words of appreciation from the 1st Sem. students were pronounced

by Lipavi Kinimi and the Vote of Thanks was proposed by Ms Razouvinuo Sale.

DL Correspondent, BCTE, Dimapur

IN A LIGHTER MOOD Problem of English Politician: “There are 50 jails in this State. I am proud to say that no member of my family has ever been in one of them,” boasted the politician.

High aspirations

Friend: “And which one is that?”

Catholic Priest: “I can become a bishop, a cardinal, may even become the Pope. But you shall remain a rabbi forever.”

Jewish Rabbi: “But what more can you hope for once you become the Pope?”

Catholic Priest: “What more can one aspire for? None can become God Himself!”

Jewish Rabbi: “Why not? One of our boys ac tually made it!”

June in January Tourist: “For me, it’s June in January.”

Stranger: “Hi, are you mad?”

Tourist: “No. Now I am an American in Australia.”

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PROVINCIAL CHAPTER AND PLATINUM JUBILEE CELEBRATION

The Sacred Heart Province of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC) Tinsukia had their Provincial Chapter from 3 to 5 July 2017. There were more than 60 participants in the Chapter. It started with Mass presided over by Bp. Joseph Aind, SDB, DD of Dibrugarh on 3 July 2017. At 8.30 am there was formal inauguration of the Chapter with lighting of the lamp and messages delivered by Bp. Joseph Aind, Rev. Sr. Philomena Mathew, Mother General of the MSMHC, Salesian Provincial of Dimapur, Fr. Nestor Guria and the FMA Provincial of Guwahati, Rev. Sr. Elizabeth George.

The MSMHC Sacred Heart Province, Tinsukia comprises of the communities in the Archdioceses of Imphal and Tellichery in the states of Manipur and Kerala, the dioceses of Kohima, Dibrugarh, Miao and Amravati in the states of Nagaland, Upper Assam, East Arunachal Pradesh and Maharashtra respectively.

As soon as the Provincial Chapter was over, the MSMHC Sisters celebrated Platinum Jubilee of their Congregation. This Congregation, the first indigenous Congregation in North East India, was founded on 24 October 1942 at Guwahati, Assam by His Excellency Stephen Ferrando SDB DD the then Bishop of Shillong.

Now the Congregation has five provinces in India and a delegation in Italy. The provincial headquarters are at Bangalore, Kolkata, Shillong, Tinsukia and Tezpur and the delegation headquarter is at Turin, Italy. It has 1167 members belonging to 53 ethnic groups working in 171 centres in India and 19 in other countries.

In the Jubilee celebrations there were about 30

Priests, 85 Sisters, 36 Novices, postulants and some students of St. Stephen School Tinsukia, Rowriah (Jorhat) and St. Mary’s High School Dibrugarh. Fathers and Sisters had come from Sadiya, Doom Dooma, Hijuguri, Dibrugarh, Chabua, Margherita, Jorhat and Dimapur.

Two bishops took part in the celebration- Joseph Aind, SDB, DD, who presided over the Mass while his Lordship George Palliparambil SDB, DD, gave the homily. Archbishop Lumon Dominic of Imphal had agreed to preside over the jubilee Mass but unfortunately fell sick and was unable to travel. Fr. Nestor Guria SDB, provincial of Dimapur Province concelebrated with the bishops and gave a message during the felicitation programme.

Sr. Philomena Mathew- Superior general, Sr. Mary Perunilam- Assistant General and Sr. Christine Mynsong- general councillor for evangelization were present both for the Chapter and the jubilee celebration.

Immediately after the Mass there was entertainment and felicitation programme.

Besides music and dance, the best part of the felicitation programme was the skit depicting the vocation, life and work of Bishop Stephen Ferrando and the founding of the new congregation, the so called Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC).

The skit was executed with style and perfection and it mesmerized the entire crowd. It was not only entertaining but highly informative and deeply inspiring.

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- Fr. Nazarius Lakra SDB, Tinsukia

CLEAN ELECTION : A CATHOLIC / CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

When election approaches in Nagaland there is passionate talk about Clean Election Campaign and pressure to join the campaign.

Through this writing I would like to make clear the position of the Catholic Church in Nagaland and the principles on which it pitches its position.

The Catholic Church is not against or for any political party or any individual candidate or any particular ideology, instead it appeals to the conscience of individuals to exercise their fundamental right responsibly and with utmost seriousness. The Bible tells us, “As you sow so shall you reap” (Gal. 6: 7). If we sow our vote in corruption, bias, purely in subjective and benefit oriented motive, we shall reap such fruits. And at the end of the day there is no point in lamenting and groaning over the situation one is faced with, instead one is invited to exercise one’s fundamental right to vote when the opportunity comes in pure and free conscience, weighing objectively before God, the values and principles, promises and perks every candidate offers to the electorate, checking on the track record of the candidate’s performance in personal and public life. So often it happens that candidates promise many good schemes and projects at the time of election and disappear until the next election. Once elected the winner forgets and bypasses the promises and the electorate. To them one can aptly apply the words of St. Paul, “Their end is destruction, their god is the belly, and they

glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our commonwealth is in heaven, and from it we await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3: 18-21). Therefore, it is important that every individual examine and decide for oneself before God according to the teaching of the Church as to whom one must vote.

Voting: Fundamental Right and Duty

Voting is one of the fundamental rights of a citizen in a modern democratic state. In fact, the Church teaches that there are three primary responsibilities as citizens: to pay taxes, to defend the country and to vote (Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2239-2240).

Each of these responsibilities asks one to put the good of society and of the fellow citizens above that of an individual desires and needs.

In the voting booth one has the privileged opportunity to contribute to the building up of a nation and promotion of the common good by bringing the values and teachings of one’s faith to bear on the issues facing the society. We have the duty to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar (Mk. 12: 17) and to pray for those in authority (1 Tim. 2: 2).

Whom should One Vote?

The Church does not tell to whom to vote for, nor does she endorse an official list of candidates or tell which party one should join.

Catholics are to use their judgment and follow their consciences as they apply the teachings of Jesus and the core values of Christian faith to the choice they make in the voting booth.

How does the Catholic/Christian Faith help to make the Right Choice?

One is taught from an early age to form one’s conscience in the light of the Christian teaching. “To follow one’s conscience” is often misunderstood as something that allows one to do whatever one wants. Faith teaches that “conscience is the voice of God resounding in the human heart, revealing the truth and calling one to do what is good while shunning what is evil“ (US Bishops, 2007). In the process of following one’s conscience the Social teaching of the Church proclaims in unequivocal terms the importance of promoting the dignity of the human person and human life. Promotion of common good can be a good guide and

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indicator for correct decision. It is also one’s duty to seek and understand the will of God prayerfully and seek enlightenment and guidance from the teaching of the Church.

Voting is no a Single-Issue Matter

At election one is confronted with multiple issues and sometimes the issues are subtle and crucial. Although a candidate’s position on a single issue is not sufficient to guarantee voter’s support, yet one’s position on a single issue that involves an intrinsic evil, proved by one’s life, ideology, action in public or private life, may legitimately lead a voter to disqualify a candidate from receiving support.

Voting for money or material gain (selling one’s vote), proxy voting, exerting force, fraud or inducement for voting for a particular candidate are acts contrary to Christian values and principles.

Key Principles 1.

As Catholic/Christian, one is obliged to “build a more just and peaceful world through morally acceptable means, so that the weak and the vulnerable are protected and human rights and dignity are defended”. When one considers the issues in the light of this obligation, faith reminds one that one should not support “intrinsically evil” actions of any sort. Morally good acts are good in their object, in their end, in their circumstances and in their means and methods.

2.

Church also opposes other actions that both violate human dignity and are destructive of life, such as human cloning or the destruction of human embryos.

3.

Church condemns genocide, torture and racism for they too are severe violations of human rights and human dignity.

4.

Church stands contrary to any actions against the commandments of God and the teaching of the Church.

5.

The moral teaching of the Church is more than prohibitions. Christians are encouraged to respond to the basic needs of human beings – food, shelter, healthcare, education and employment. One is called to defend religious freedom, support marriage and family, welcome the immigrants and protect the environment.

Thus we are called to draw upon the teaching of our Faith in coming to decisions, and not party loyalty, self-interest or political slogans.

Difficult Choice

In today’s political environment, voting as a Catholic can be difficult. It takes serious reflection, knowledge of Church teachings and awareness of who the candidate is and where he stands on issues that affect the public and private life. Voting is a serious moral decision that will affect not only the future course of the country and many innocent lives, but our own salvation as well. One cannot intentionally support moral evils or vote for a candidate who does such evils. The privilege and right of democracy is that one, as a citizen and religio us believer, can have a voice in the direction of one’s country by voting for the common good.

The great privilege of being a Catholic/Christian is that we have a body of teaching, going back to Christ himself which can help us to make good decision in the voting booth.

Conclusion

“An authentic faith…always involves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this earth somehow better than we found it…If indeed ‘the just ordering of society and of the state is a central responsibility of politics’, the Church, ‘cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fight for justice (Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, No. 183).

Since one cannot objectively and subjectively know the overt and covert intentions and aspirations of different methodologies proposed by various groups and individuals as “Clean Election Campaign”, the Catholic Church does not oppose or publicly join any slogan filled campaign, but appeals to the conscience of every individual to exercise his/her fundamental right responsibly and with utmost seriousness, knowing well that one’s vote counts not only for the present but for the future. Voting is a means by which one lays the foundation and direction for the future. As you sow so shall you reap!

Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland

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JOHN SHILSHI IPS TALKS ON “RIGHT CAREER” AT SCHE

John Shilshi, IPS Join Director National Security Council Secretariat Govt. of India, gave a motivational talk and career guidance for the students of Salesian College of Higher Education(SCHE) at 11.30 am to 1.20 pm on 21 July 2017.

Sir John, twice awardee of the President’s Gallantry Medal for distinguished service, says, “Self-Introspection and Hard work are two important elements in choosing the right career in life.” Hedealt on some career options: Travel agency, Computer engineer, Mass Communication, Language, Fashion Designing, and Social Works. He shaded some

light on the values of reading books,research, persistence, honesty, confidence, time management, and above all being good human individuals. He also exhorted all to acquire the art of being an ‘enabler’ and not ‘importer’, and toadjust with the multi-cultures society.

Earlier, Fr. Policarp Xalxo, Principal of SCHE, welcomed and introduced Sir John to the gathering. In his vote of thanks, Principal expressed sentiments of gratitude on behalf of the College for the enriching sharing DL Correspondant

VALUE AND IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION

A Seminar on “Value and Importance of Education” was held in Singrijan village. It was organized by the residential students of Youth Services of the Salesian college of Higher Education, Dimapur. The chief resource persons were Fr. Dr. Policarp and Sr. Emelda Kerketta MSMHC. It began at 9 a.m. and ended by 2.00 p.m. It was split in to two sessions. Earlier, it started with the lighting of the lamp by the resource persons, catechists and a group of leaders.

Dr. Policarp underscored that education is for all not for few. Education is not only

by school also through other means. The programme was further explicated with powerpoint presentation and action songs. These brought vitality and enthusiasm. There was a Holy Mass after the seminar. After the holy mass, there was a short felicitation programme.

The catechist tossed the vote of thanks. The participants listened with the rapt attention. There were over 250 people. The entire programme left a deep impression on all the participants.

DL Correspondant

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FAITH FEST AT ZELIANGRONG VILLAGE, DIMAPUR

A Seminar on “FAITH FEST” was conducted at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Dhobinala, Dimapur. Around 75 youth and over 30 adults participated in it from Diphupar Rongmei, Diphupar B, Burma Camp and Zeliangrong Village.

It was started on 22nd July 2017 and ended by 23rd July 2017. The prominent animators were Fr. Tom Karthik, Br. Philip Kamei, Fr. Joshua, Fr. Felix, Fr. T.C. Joseph, Mr. innocent and Fr. Christu. It was interspersed

with the dance competitions, Singing competitions, Bible Quiz and etc. It is timely and relevant at a time when traditional and tribal values are eroded by the negative values of fast-growing modernism. The participants truly enlivened the day and were enriched.

The chief organizers of the programme were the residential students of Salesian College together with the local leaders, teachers and catechists.

DL Correspondant

SCHE DIPHUPAR ANGAMI TURNS SILVER

The event began with the Holy Eucharist. It was presided over by Rev. Fr. Sebastian Jose, the Deputy Director of the Salesian College of Higher Education. He was assisted by Rev. Fr. Marius the Co-pastor of Carmel Parish. Present on the occasion were the Nuns of Carmel, 5th mile and the residential students of Salesian College Education and over 100 people.

It was interspersed with the memorable number by the old-timers of 1992, aero 30th July 2017 was a chequered in the bics of present day youth, talks by the guests annals of Diphupar - Angami youth Centre, of honour, Youth Director Fr. Christudoss, an Dimapur. It turned silver on this memorable elder, Jubilee memorial song, a special number day. It was in 1992 that the youth centre in this by the college students, youth group and a vote region has been started by the residential students of the Salesian College of Higher Educa- of thanks by the Chief Catechist. The entire tion. Since then the residential students kept function came to an end with the delicious felcoming to this memorable youth centre. In lowship meal prepared for the occasion. order to celebrate this event, a memorial function was arranged in the premises of St. Peter’s DL Correspondant Church.

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