THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE OF

Vol. XXVII India January- December 2018

GUEST EDITORIAL

never did anything worth doing by accident, nor did any of my inventions come by accident; they came by work”. These words “I of the great Greek Philosopher Plato in brief summarises this first edition of the refurbished “Catholic India” information magazine of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference as the apex body of the in India through its Office Bearers and its various offices continuously conducts programmes and activities in favour of society and for the animation of the Church in India. Many of these activities which our Bishops, Fathers and Sisters do, not by accident, but through hard work and much effort are regularly reported on ourwebsite https://www.cbci.in .

Over the last 15 months, the website has been visited by over three million surfers. The newsletter Catholic India which now comes out both as an electronic edition as well as a printed one provides just the gist of a few of the activities/happenings/events with a link to the detailed report on the website. This is a novel experiment to make the website news easily accessible to our friends, benefactors and well-wishers interested in our activities. We take this opportunity to thank all those who have made it possible to bring forth this publication. In particular my sincere thanks to Fr. Anthony Fernandes SFX who has compiled and set up the news magazine and to the Manager of Federal Bank, Connaught Place branch, New , for sponsoring the costs of its publication.

Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas. SFX Secretary General Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India

Number of Dioceses: 174; Latin Rite Dioceses: 132; Syro Malabar Dioceses: 31; Syro Malankara Dioceses: 11; Regional Bishops’ Councils: 14; Ecclesiastical Provinces: 30; Cardinals: 4; : 27; Diocesan Bishops: 132; Coadjutor Bishops: 5; Auxiliary Bishops: 17; Apostolic Administrators: 9; Diocesan Administrators: 6; Emeritus Bishops: 66

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 PB 1 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 33rd General Body Meeting of CBCI: “United in Diversity for a Mission of Mercy and Witness”

184 Catholic Bishops of India came together at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Koramangala, Bengaluru from 2nd to 9th February, 2018 for the biennial meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI). The CBCI is the apex body of the Catholic Church, which has more than 20 million members. The theme chosen by the Bishops for deliberations was “I am with you always, even to the end of the ages” (Mat.28:20) UNITED IN DIVERSITY FOR A MISSION OF MERCY AND WITNESS.

For details:

1. Press Statement of the 33rd General Body Meeting of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=wqW4S0GMP0Q=

2. Office Bearers of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=3M5hrPm5a6I=

3. Final Statement of 33rd General Body Meeting of CBCI in . http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=fdSVMSHMIrQ=

4. Inaugural Holy Mass by Most Rev. Giambattista Diquattro, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=vttqYdq01Lk=

5. Presidential Address by Cardinal , President CBCI (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=cG2JDo4P6qU=

6. Inaugural Address by Most Rev. Giambattista Diquattro, Apostolic Nuncio (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=j0skY3r~~LYY=

7. Address by Chief Guest, Cardinal Charles Bo SDB, of Yangoon (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=~~8U3F/A5KOA=

8. Messages read out by Most Rev. Filipe Neri Ferrao, Vice President - II, CBCI (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=HVIEpOa/Y8k=

9. CBCI Biennial Report: Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General, CBCI (video link) http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=AtySfEchvxk=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 2 3 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 New Office Bearers of the with participation of over 700 people from Africa, the North East, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India the Adivasi community from Jharkhand, Assam, Bengal, Bihar, The 33rd General Body Meeting Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, along with Hindi speaking of the CBCI elected the following communities from different states and other ethnic groups and Office bearers: Fathers and Sisters who serve these various communities. Cardinal Oswald For details: Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=14BCg7nYiBI= as the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India. CBCI interacts with Chairman of National Commission Most Rev. Joshua Mar Ignathios, for Minorities Bishop of the of Mavelikara, as the First Vice- President Most Rev. George Njaralakatt, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tellicherry, as the Second Vice-President. Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas SFX continues his three year term as the Secretary General of CBCI. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=3M5hrPm5a6I= Fundamentalists attack St. Mary’s PG College Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh

Fr. Joseph Manipadam SDB, Secretary, CBCI Office for Education and Culture and Fr. David Xalxo, Office Secretary, CBCI Secretariat interacted with Shri. Syed Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi, Chairman of National Commission for Minorities at the YWCA, New Delhi for almost three hours. Among others who were present at the interactive session and spoke were Mahesh Kumar Singla IPS, Advisor (N.E.) Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, Bishop Collin C. Theodore (CNI), Bishop Phillip S. of the Methodist Church in India and several others. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=WF9v0MTzO78=

A group of fundamentalists first threatened the management of St. ICYM elects a new team of Officers, vows to promote Mary’s PG College with dire consequences if worship of Bharat youth leadership Mata Devi was not conducted in the College Premises. Then a The Indian Catholic Youth mob of hooligans organized by the ABVP attempted to forcibly Movement (ICYM), the enter the campus and impose their will. A grave threat to life and largest premier Catholic youth property was avoided due to the efficient handling by the Union movement of India, which and State Governments as well as the local Police force. is the chief youth movement of the CBCI Youth Council For details: held elections to appoint new http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=AMB/vJvmU64= National Executive Committee (NExCo) 2018-2020. International Migrants Day For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Xw9qqttTyBg=

The Commission for Migrants in the Archdiocese of Bangalore organized the annual International Migrants Day in Bangalore on 14th January, 2018. It was a gathering representing diversity

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 2 3 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Preparations for World Youth Day Syro- Leaders Reflect on Education Policy

His Excellency Dr. Gilberto Llerena Garcia, Ambassador of Fr. Joseph Manipadam, Secretary, CBCI Office for Education and Panama, Mr. Ricardo Berna, third Secretary of the Embassy Culture had a meeting with the heads of Syro-Malankara Catholic and Mr. Manoj Narang visited the CBCI Centre and met Rev. Educational Institutions of the Country and all the Bishops of the Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, Secretary General of CBCI and Rev. Syro-Malankara Synod in Trivandrum. They discussed current Fr. Deepak Thomas KJ OCD, CBCI Youth Council Secretary. The educational concerns and the implementation of the All India meeting was held to discuss about the preparations for the World Catholic Education Policy 2007 and its impact on the Catholic Youth Day to be held in Panama from 22nd to 26th January, 2019. schools. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=E2ZRR12BuB8= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=gnuU3QxBFeE=

CBCI Council for Women celebrates International Animation for the Heads of Colleges and Schools of Women’s Day! Andhra Pradesh at Loyola College, Vijayawada.

About 150 participants attended the orientation programme CBCI Council for Women celebrated International Women’s Day organized at the Andhra Loyola College in Vijayawada along with and the theme chosen was ‘Press for Progress’. The participants Archbishop Prakash Mallavarapu of Visakhapatnam and Bishop were invited to continue their efforts for the cause of gender parity Joseph Raja Rao Thelegathoti, S.M.M, Vijayawada respectively. more ardently and enthusiastically. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=gnuU3QxBFeE= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=wNdXOhoBpP0= Animation for the Heads of Colleges and Schools of International Women’s Day at CBCI Centre Rajasthan

About 120 participants attended the orientation programme organized for the Heads of Colleges and Schools of Rajasthan at The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India celebrated the the Bishop’s House in Jaipur along with the Bishop Oswald Lewis International Women’s day with a symbolic and meaningful of Jaipur, Bishop Pius Thomas D’Souza of Ajmer and Bishop celebration at its Headquarters in New Delhi. Devprasad Ganawa of Udaipur. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Oij6x3ZU~~Ss= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=gnuU3QxBFeE=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 4 5 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Dalit Leaders meet the Secretary General Seminar in North East India on Fake News

Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General, Catholic Responding to the challenges of fake news and baked news in an Bishops’ Conference of India met the leaders of National Council era of social media, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in India of Dalit Christians (NCDC) on 13th March 2018 at the CBCI (CBCI) conducted a two-day workshop on Effective Use of Social Centre, New Delhi. Media for the Directors of Social Communication in North East For details: Region. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=~~pjUDObfkeU= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=J3hsrT7YuuY= Welcome to the New Counsellor at the Apostolic Nunciature Training on prevention of human Trafficking and promotion of Safe Migration

CBCI welcomes Rev. Msgr. Javier Domingo Fernández González, Counsellor of the Apostolic Nunciature in India and Nepal. He arrived on 9th March, 2018. Several cases related to migration and human trafficking were For details: referred to CBCI Office for Labour from various North and North http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=1vm98IltWSw= Eastern States. The CBCI Office for Labour organised a two days training programme at Chetanalaya, New Delhi. Seminar for the Secretaries of the North East Regional For details: Bishops’ Council http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=JvrZmF27CMI=

Seminar on Unity in Diversity and Our Response at Aizawl, Mizoram

The North East Regional Bishops’ Council along with Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Catholic Relief Services organised a Seminar for the Secretaries of the North East Regional Bishops’ The Diocese of Aizawl conducted Seminar on Unity in Diversity Council in Guwahati from 19th to 20th March, 2018. and Our Response to Present Situation in Our Country. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=c0jYKEkzoGs= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=5UE52CwtV~~w=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 4 5 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 3rd Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam World Peace Award 2017 In Solidarity with the Victims Conferred on Cardinal

Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of and an eminent citizen of the country was awarded the prestigious “3rd DR. APJ ABDUL KALAM WORLD PEACE AWARD 2017” at the 7th International Human Rights Awards Ceremony held in Delhi. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General of the Catholic In solidarity with the victims of heinous incidents of Kathua Bishops’ Conference of India received the award on behalf of and Unnau, the Catholic Bishops of North India, together with Cardinal Gracias. students, youth and people of Delhi held a Candle light Prayer For details: service at Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=/letAWlkCI8= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=21b6fLvOlHw= CBCI Secretaries meet in Goa CBCI Dalit Empowerment Policy

The meeting of Secretaries of CBCI Offices/Councils and A Regional workshop on CBCI Dalit Empowerment Policy jointly Regional Deputy Secretaries was held at St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual organized by CBCI Office for SC/BC and Bihar Regional SC/ST Renewal Centre, Goa, from 3rd to 5th April, 2018. Commission was held at Sewa Kendra, Patna. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=n~~RSYh9xHPo= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=e/xcX/ZeJKE=

Spiritual Leaders speak on Social Harmony CBCI Women with women of Kandhamal

Spiritual leaders of six major religions in the country at a meeting in Goa, expressed their deep distress regarding the recent communal tensions in various parts of the Country. “India will The CBCI Council for Women distributed sewing machines to not break again. We will sow the seeds for a new country of unity women of Kandhamal, Odisha, as part of its plan to help the on the Goan soil,” said the religious representatives in conclusion. victims of the worst anti-Christian violence in modern era. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=OiT44cb0xA4= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=5fr2KJo3LwQ=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 6 7 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Indian Youth among others at the preparation for the GLIMPSES OF OUR SOCIAL WORK XV Synod of Bishops Glimpses 1: State Level Consultation on Dalit Children’s Nutrition and Education

Three hundred young people Children from Mahadalit (Rishidev, Saday and Manjhi) from around communities in Purnea, Rohtas, Madhubani and Munger districts the world were of Bihar attended the 2-days state level consultation on Dalit chosen to come children’s Education and Nutrition at Patna organized by Caritas to Rome in India under the Roshni programme. preparation for the XV Synod Glimpses 2: Combating Human Trafficking: Need for of Bishops to Networking is Imperative take place in October 2018 to deliberate on the topic: “Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment.” The main objective of the Pre-Synod meeting of the youth (March 19- 24) was to write a document reflecting the position of young people on issues proposed for discussion. Its final version was to be considered by Bishops at the Synod in October on the theme “Youth, faith and Vocational Discernment” along with other documents. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=MI5HET9zPU8= Caritas India held a consultation at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh in Regional and Diocesan Directors of Interreligious collaboration with likeminded NGOs in India and Nepal to find Dialogue & meet ways to combat Human Trafficking.

Glimpses 3: Consultation on Child Labour

A very significant meeting of Regional and Diocesan Directors of Commissions for Interreligious Dialogue & Ecumenism from different parts of India was held at Atma Darshan, Andheri, to study, reflect and dialogue on how to bring to life froman Interreligious and Ecumenical Perspective the Final Statement Caritas India organised a two-day State Level Consultation of the 33rd General Body Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ in Kolkata, on February 27-28, 2018 to find ways to end Child Conference of India. Labour. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=8C9ZvsfSFWc=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 6 7 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Glimpses 4: Preparing Shockproof Houses in Sikkim Glimpses 7: Orientation Programme for Directors of and Darjeeling Diocesan Social Service Societies

A Two-day Orientation Program for 23 new Directors of Diocesan Social Service Societies mostly from the southern and eastern regions was organized by Caritas India in New Delhi from 19th Caritas India along with its partner Anugayalaya Diocesan Social to 21st February, 2018. The Programme was inaugurated by Most Service Society has started a project to construct earthquake Rev. Lumen Monteiro, Chairman, Caritas India. resilient structures and retrofitting of old vulnerable buildings and to educate communities, leaders, administrations regarding the Glimpses 8: Shelter and livelihood for people in Assam issue.

Glimpses 5: Joint Lenten Campaign 2018 of the German and Indian Church Launched at Sacred Heart Cathedral

United Way, Bengaluru has agreed to support Caritas India in providing shelter and livelihood to 235 families in Morigaon district of Assam. Caritas India launched the Lenten Campaign for 2018 on the first Sunday of Lent at Sacred Heart Cathedral of Delhi Archdiocese, Glimpses 9: Caritas Bangladesh delegation interacts New Delhi, with the Holy Eucharistic celebration presided over by with Ashakiraranam volunteers Most Rev. Anil Couto, Archbishop of Delhi. “Have you changed the world today?” was the campaign slogan of the joint campaign between the Church of India and Germany.

Glimpses 6: Training on Essentials of Humanitarian Response

Ashakiranam is not a project rather a movement led by compassion that consolidates on the good practices and solutions in addressing the issue of cancer with the support of volunteers”, said Fr. Paul Moonjely, the Director Designate of Caritas India while addressing the Caritas Bangladesh delegation that has come on an Training for 69 PEACH volunteers was conducted by Caritas exposure visit to learn from Ashakiranam Programme in . India across its four zones namely North, East, South and North For details of glimpses: East. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=txJH71qRVJs=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 8 9 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI Office for Labour honours supporting staff Oriental 3:

CBCI Office for Labour honoured 110 supporting staff ofthe nearby institutions on the occasion of the International Workers Over 400 teachers and Heads of schools of Ramnathpuram Day/ May Day Celebration, at Convent of Jesus and Mary School, Diocese in Coimbatore, studied the “All India Catholic Education New Delhi. Policy 2007” in the present day context and were led to make a For details: self study report on the possible ways they could implement it in http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=0wh/QLUW7ZI= their own educational institutions. For details of oriental: CBCI Education Office interacts with the Dioceses of http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=FbSENtHl9IY= the Oriental Churches with the “All India Catholic Kerala Bishops’ Council: United in Diversity for the Education Policy 2007” Implementation Mission of Witness and Mercy. Oriental 1:

An Orientation Programme was held for Heads of Schools of Thukalay diocese regarding the evaluation of implementation of the Catholic Education Policy. Means were proposed in order to ensure the care of the poor children and to impart faith formation The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) and Kerala and Value Education. Conference of Major Superiors (KCMS) gathered to discuss “United in Diversity for the Mission of Witness and Mercy.” Oriental 2: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=enJXNcFmhB8=

Dalit Christian MahaSabha State level leaders take Oath

An Orientation Programme was held about positive disciplining without the use of punishment, on prevention of any type of abuse, Oath taking of the State level leaders of DCMS took place at the on ensuring the safety of children, on giving value education Pastoral Animation Centre (POC), Cochin. and faith formation, and on looking after the poorer and the For details: marginalized. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=YGqTT731K7o=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 8 9 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 TNBC Regional Labour Commission Meet at Coonur, North East 3: Shillong Ooty

The programme in Shillong was presided over by His Grace Archbishop Dominic Jala SDB and attended by the , the Chancellor and over thirty five priests and sisters involved in Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council urges the Govt. authorities to pay the education mission. heed to the cry of the under privileged Traditional Occupational For Details: Groups in Tamil Nadu. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ecJtKl3X4/8= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=u0pNQNrPAu8= Fr. Jaison Vadassery elected Secretary to International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) CBCI Office for Education and Culture reaches out to the Remote North Eastern Tribal Region of India North East 1: Guwahati

Rev. Fr. Jaison Vadassery has been elected as the Secretary of International Catholic Migrants Commission (ICMC) by its Governing Council Meeting held in Rome. He is currently the The Programme was presided over by His Grace, Archbishop John Secretary to the CBCI Office of Labour and Director of Workers Moolachira and attended by over 90 priests and sisters involved in India Federation a nationwide labour organization. the education mission of the Church. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=AnSmXCSl92E= North East 2: Nongstoin http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=MSyazfzupdM= Church in the forefront of the humanitarian response for flood affected.

Caritas India, the Wing of Mercy of the Catholic Bishops’ The programme in the very remote Nongstoin was attended Conference of India started its response in the state of Tripura in by Fathers and Sisters who are the education coordinators of a May, and then extended it to Assam and Manipur as well as to the number of clusters of schools looked after by each of them. State of Kerala. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=9zdczNYzuiQ=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 10 11 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 The Odisha Government offers all support to the CBCI Office for Education and Culture Reaches out to Catholic Church every Nook and Corner of India Nook and Corner 1: Teachers’ Training at St. Anthony’s High School, Fategarh

About 80 members of the teaching staff of St. Anthony’s Senior Secondary School at Fategarh in Farukhabad had an interactive training programme on positive disciplining of students without the use of punishments. The training also touched upon the importance of activity based pre-schooling and effective teaching technics.

Nook and Corner 2: Evaluation of Implementation of The Government of Odisha has been positive towards the Christian the All India Catholic Education Policy at Trichur Community in the State. Kandhamal has become a symbol of faith, hope and perseverance for the Indian Church and the Church in India has received abundant blessings from the sacrifices of the martyrs and the poor suffering victims of Kandhamal. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ESqtWc2Zox4=

Union Minister for Family and Health supports St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences

A programme was held for the heads of Aided Schools of the Archdiocese of Trichur on the present day challenges of Catholic Education and how to equip themselves for imparting and empowering the youth of our country to grow as upright citizens through education.

Nook and Corner 3: Self-Study Report and Evaluation of Implementation of the All India Catholic Education Policy at Changanacherry

A delegation led by Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, Secretary General, of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and comprising of Fr Paul Parathazham, Director, Mr. George D’Souza, Dean, St John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore and Fr Jervis D’Souza, Deputy Secretary General, CBCI met Mr. Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Family and Health at Nirman Bhavan, New Delhi, on Tuesday, July 3, 2018 in connection with A programme was conducted for heads of the aided schools of the the restitution of the reduced seats at St John’s, Bangalore. Archdiocese at St. Berchmans High School at Changanacherry, For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=76/wNE3EAd4= which is one of the oldest Catholic Boarding and day school in this coastal town. For details: https://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide.aspx?id=531&type=1 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 10 11 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 False Propaganda can be overcome through the Good Secretary General, CBCI inaugurates Training: ‘Sister Work of the Church Nurses As Community Enablers’

The Western Region Labour Commission held its meeting at Atmadharshan Gyan Ashram, Andheri East, Mumbai. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=nMD~~Wwl3HOs= The 4th batch of the 3-month training on ‘Sister Nurses as Community Enablers’, organized by the Catholic Health Farewell to Henryk Jagodzinski, Counsellor, Association of India (CHAI), for 60 sister nurses, was inaugurated Apostolic Nunciature, Delhi by Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General, CBCI. Msgr Henryk Jagodzinski, Counsellor of the In the keynote address he thanked them in the name of Catholic Apostolic Nunciature, Delhi, after rendering Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) and that the Church service to the Church in India, left for Podgoriza, appreciates their work in the peripheries. Montenegro. For details: NIECH BÓG BĘDZIE Z WAMI I BĘDZIE WAM http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=0bQMZrQ/~~rQ= BŁOGOSŁAWIŁ For details: Love your Neighbour, National Level Christian Conclave http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Iq6UYhcqbrQ= Mamata Banerjee set hearts http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ksWYse1qIOg= on fire at the National Level Christian Conclave The Shepherds Leading the flock: Meeting of the Heads “Love your Neighbour”. of Educational Institutions in Gujarat and Jhansi “I wonder why I was not born as a Christian”, said Mamata Banerjee in appreciation of the works of Christian Missionaries. In an unprecedented and exceptional Programme, a National Level Christian Conclave “love your Neighbour” the Christian community poured forth its appreciation for the nation, its commitment to love and service and its determination to stand The Annual General Body Meeting of the Gujarat Educational by the poorest of the poor, the deprived and the marginalized. Board of Catholic Institutions (GEBCI) was held at Nadiad in For details: Gujarat. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=b1rmFuRHAoA= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmyqXZiSBr8 Meeting of the Heads of Educational Institutions of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) felicitates Jhansi Diocese Young Achievers from among tribals

It was a special occasion for fifteen tribal youth as they were Most Rev. Peter Parapullil presided over a day-long meeting of publicly recognized by the Catholic Church for their hard work, all the heads of educational institutions of the Diocese of Jhansi. brilliance and enthusiasm in achieving standards of excellence. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=jGFTgwuHyFo= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=wFAFDs7dl2w= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 12 13 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Catholic Bishops pray for the country on Independence Day From the frontline of the floods in Kerala, Mar , Archbishop of Trichur.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) celebrated the 72nd Independence Day at CBCI Centre, New Delhi with due solemnity. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=zG/WdHVrEUk= The flood has literally devastated Kerala, to the extent that it has changed the geographical configuration of the region. Rivers were Farewell to Mr. Tony Castleman of Catholic Relief Services not only overflowing; some of them had changed their direction. There were several landslides that washed away entire families with their houses. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Bibtn9d3p2A=

Catholic Church at the frontier in flood relief Farmers, daily wage workers & agricultural labourers would not earn anything for 2-3 months. Thousands would have no homes to go back to. Lakhs needed food, clothes, beds, mosquito nets, medicines, drinking water supplies The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) bade farewell and temporary shelters. Sanitation to Mr. Tony Castleman and family as they left India for United & hygiene had been severely States of America. Mr. Tony was the Asia Representative of compromised, the risk of epidemics was at an all-time high. Catholic Relief Services (CRS). For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=mioemOrjZUY= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=cDjdyRU2DAM= Francis prays for Kerala Flood victims Office-Bearers, Delhi unit promise collaboration and support to CBCI

At the prayed for victims of the flooding in the The newly elected Office Bearers of AICU, Delhi unit are Indian state of Kerala. “In recent days,” he noted, “the inhabitants M.S.Stanislaus, President, Catherine Toppo, Vice President, of Kerala have been harshly struck by intense rains, which have Mario Noronha, Secretary, Joseph Ambrose, Joint Secretary, caused flooding and landslides, with heavy loss of human life, Anthony Joseph, Treasurer. They were accompanied by Jenis with many people missing and displaced, with extensive damage Francis, Former President & Spokesperson, Daisy Panna, Former to crops and homes.” Vice President and A. Chinnappan Secretary General of the AICU. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=uov7Ze1lvzk= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=cnbBOhDDTec= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 12 13 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Catholic education seeks to reach out to the last and the Catholic Education 4: least to enable them to succeed Catholic Education 1:

Another Programme was held to Ensure Quality education for Tribal Children in the Hazaribag Diocese and the effectiveness of the implementation of the catholic Education policy to benefit over 80% of the Tribal children attending the schools. For details of Catholic Education: Self-Study Report and Evaluation of Implementation of the All http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=STwGpikLmlA= India Catholic Education Policy at Udaipur. Holy Cross Sisters along with CBCI reflect on challenges Catholic Education 2: to their Educational Apostolate

Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross (SCSC), North East Province engaged in Education Ministry gathered in Holy Cross Provincial Animation of Personnel involved in Catholic Education in the House, Fairfield Colony, Digha Ghat, Patna, for a two day Diocese of Daltonganj workshop. They were led to reflect upon the meaning and essence of Catholic Education. Catholic Education 3: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=4KcWb~~VybrE=

Arunachal Students dance to raise fund for Kerala

Interactive one day programme at Gumla Bishop’s House for heads of schools to create awareness and evaluate the extent and The students of Newman School Neotan, a village school in effectiveness of implementation of the catholic Education Policy. Changlang District, performed various dance numbers and The programme was aimed to assure that the Catholic and Tribal beatbox in the middle of the Namphai Bazar to raise funds for the children would get 100% access to our schools and that they people of Kerala that had been affected by floods. would be enabled to succeed. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ARguS2OWyGM=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 14 15 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Holy Mass for reconciliation, thanksgiving and grace on Home Minister Rajnath Singh assures Christians all the 10th anniversary of Kandhamal. help and assistance

Bishops, Priests, Religious and lay faithful gathered together in large numbers on 25th August, 2018, in the St. Joseph’s School Compound, Bhubaneswar, to celebrate a Solemn Eucharist to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the terrible and painful tragedy which Kandhamal went through ten years ago. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=/NZYgm/mevk=

Dalit Christians in a State level public meeting in Trichy

The Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, along with Mr. Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, called upon Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister at the residence of the Minister on 3 September, 2018. He placed before the Home Minister various difficulties that the Christian Communities and Organisations were facing in different areas like the FCRA and other organisational matters. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=IKKOTQX~~TrI= A state level public meeting was held at Trichy town, Tamil Nadu, jointly organised by Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC) Meeting with Mr. Henrik Rosen, Coordinator, Christian Commission for SC/ST, National Council of Churches in India Council of Sweden (NCCI) and National Council of Dalit Christians (NCDC) in which more than 10,000 people participated. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=eqm~~R5p3rwc=

Odisha Development Conclave: Tribal Self-Governance

A delegation from Christian Council of Sweden of different Christian denominations, visited India in January 2018. The visit was coordinated by Mr. Henrik Rosen. The visitors were interested in learning about the Freedom of Religion in India and ‘Odisha Development Conclave’ was held from 24th to 26th visited Churches and Christian centers in Delhi including the August, 2018, which deliberated on “Tribal Self -Governance” at CBCI Centre. Schedule Caste- Schedule Tribes Research and Training Institute For details: (SCSTRTI), at Bhubaneswar, Odisha. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=8OwFSu~~ey5o= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=TNBDjcGlyFI=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 14 15 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Catholic Educational Institutions are the only hope Marathi version of CBCI Dalit Empowerment Policy and Visible signs of Development and Empowerment of (DEP) released. people in the otherwise neglected regions of the North East India

North East 1: The Secretary for the CBCI Office for Education The CBCI Dalit Empowerment Policy in Marathi language was and Culture Fr. Joseph Manipadam SDB, visited North East released by Most Rev. Thomas Dabre at Pafal Seminary, Poona, India on 4th and 5th September, 2018 and conducted training and on 11th September, 2018. The one day workshop was jointly evaluation programmes for Catholic schools. organised by CBCI Office for SC/BC, Poona Diocese, and Pragat Padvidhar Sanghtana to discuss about the implementation of CBCI Dalit Empowerment Policy. Around 100 people from , Aurangabad and Nashik dioceses participated in the program. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=WfaR3a1eHy8=

Northeast India Regional Pastoral Conference

North East 2: Animation and Training for the heads of Schools and Colleges of Diphu Diocese: 55 heads of Catholic institutions came for a day’s animation programme on 6th September 2018.

North East 3: 65 heads of Catholic Institutions of Kohima Diocese had a Training programme and AGM in Dimapur. An awareness was brought about regarding the many challenges faced in the area of education today and methods to ensure that they give their best to the tribals and the marginalized were suggested. For details of North East: The North East India annual Regional Pastoral Conference was http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ONvoTdMebG4= held from 10th to 13th September, 2018 on the theme “Christian response to the emerging socio-political situation” in India. For Religion is about Love of God and Love of Neighbour - the first time delegates from other church denominations took part can never be about hate! in the Conference. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Mq3VWiscIuE=

Training on Bonded Labour Abolition Act, 1975 at CBCI Centre

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India participated in the “Festival of Joy and Peace” organized by Gyanam, a Right wing cultural organization in Jaipur on 8th September, 2018. Speaking on the topic Religion (Dharam) as Faith (Aastha), Behaviour (Adhambra) or Pageantry (Aacharan), Bishop Theodore told the audience that Religion is a relationship of Faith and love with The CBCI Office for Labour organized a Training on Bonded your God. This love transforms itself as love and mercy to all Labour Abolition Act - Rescue, Relief and Rehabilitation at other human beings who are our brothers and sisters. CBCI Centre, New Delhi on 15th September, 2018. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Kvweg9hawEg= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=iKmvOVagolQ=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 16 17 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 New First Counsellor At The Apostolic Nunciature CBCI Collaborator appointed on the reconstituted Pontifical Council The Catholic Bishops’ Conference Mr. Guilherme Vaz, of India welcomed the New member of the CBCI First Counsellor at the Apostolic Finance Committee has Nunciature in India, Msgr. Mitja been appointed Leskovar. Monsignor Leskovar on the reconstituted arrived in New Delhi on Saturday, and enlarged Vatican 8th September, 2018. His Pontifical Council for the Excellency Archbishop Giambattista Laity, Family and Life. For Diquattro, the Apostolic Nuncio to 10 years, Mr. Guilherme India and Nepal, presented his new Vaz was a member of the collaborator to CBCI the same day. erstwhile Pontifical Council for the Laity, first appointed by Pope For details: Benedict XVI and continued under Pope Francis. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=LDomuzw6NWY= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=c637tznWnho= CBCI Inaugurates “CBCI Education Masterminds” National Quiz and Mobile APP 51st Convention of the Association of Catholic Schools held at CMS, Lucknow

AINACS (All India Association of Catholic Schools) is a In house inauguration of the National quiz competition “CBCI voluntary association of around 2000 Catholic Schools in India EDUCATION MASTERMINDS” took place at the CBCI Centre and is affiliated to the CBCI Office for Education and Culture. on 20th September 2018. It was inaugurated by His Excellency AINACS as an association organizes annual training programmes Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, Secretary General, CBCI. Mr. for its members and holds a General Body Meeting which is Adittya Nath Mubayi will be the Quiz Master. The whole attended by more than 500 members. venture is supported by Mr. Ranu Francis, managing Director of For details: Franciscan Solutions. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=208s3Kit7jY= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Wcpt5xA9ZqY= Secretary General CBCI: The Country and the World needs healing and Religious Heads and Organizations Interdenominational Consultation on Dalits must lead this effort

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India and CBCI Office for Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General of the Catholic Dalits and Backward classes and Christian Institute for the study Bishops’ Conference of India gave a clarion call to spiritual heads of Religion (CISRS) jointly organized a consultation on the topic and guides representing different religions of India and to men and “Dalits in India” at CISRS, New Delhi. Around 70 people from women of good will to come together and to lead the nation and different denominations participated in the program. the world towards peace and harmony. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ZbUJ9Zuy8Bw= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=juDQpZL1yUg=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 16 17 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI Office of Education reaches out to the heads of Three days National meet of Dalit Christian Women for Catholic Schools in Chennai Change

More than 180 Heads of Catholic schools of Chennai came together for a day of study regarding the safety and security of children in our schools. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ihSviV80imk= A three-day National meet and exposure program was held at Cochin Pastoral Orientation Centre, Kerala. 40 participants from CBCI Office for Labour conducts Consultation and different parts of India attended in the program. The general body Workshop on Bonded Labour at Sewa Kendra, Patna meeting of Dalit Christian Women for Change (DCWC) was held under the leadership of its president Dr. Isabella. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=2EqkhqJDM5s=

Karnataka Region Catholic Bishops’ Council organizes meeting of PROs. A meeting of the Diocesan PROs of the Karnataka Region Bishops’ council was held in Bangalore. Archbishop Bihar Regional Commission for Labour in collaboration with Peter Machado of CBCI Office for Labour organised a state level consultation on Bangalore and Bishop ‘Bonded Labour and labour standards at workplace’ at Sewa Theodore Mascarenhas Kendra, Patna on October 26, 2018. SFX Secretary General For details: of CBCI guided the http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=5HdnoJzc5OA= participants. For details: Capacity Building for Dalit Christians in South http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=pnJlk7WqCI4= Karnataka 2018 Joint Statement on Climate Change by Bishops’ Conferences

The Indian Social Institute (ISI) Bangalore in collaboration with A joint statement issued by Church leaders of the continental the Karnataka Regional SC/ST commission organised a training groupings of episcopal conferences addressed government program for the Dalit Christians in South Karnataka at the Mysore leaders and representatives and called on them to work towards an diocesan social work centre. Around 30 young people and women ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement for the people participated in the training. and the planet. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=/9YLDelZQQo= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=jcNH5zcS/hg=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 18 19 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI Education Office pushes for Cracker-Less Dalit Religious and Priests pledge to commit themselves Pollution Free Diwali across the Country for the empowerment of Dalits

The CBCI Office for Dalits and Backward Classes (SC/BC) organized a three days seminar for the Dalit Religious and Priests (DRAP) from 13th to 15th November, 2018 at Arnold Bhavan, Hyderabad. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=yYnAHOnsL7I=

Joint meeting of the Deputy Secretaries of the Regional Bishops’ Councils, Secretaries of CBCI Office/ Councils More than 20,000 students from the leading 12 catholic schools in the national capital have courageously taken the initiative that they prefer to enjoy less this year by not bursting crackers in order to save the children and the elderly from lung disorders and gift them a longer span of life. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=D9jeuQL53Fw=

CBCI National Education Consultation

A meeting of the Deputy Secretaries of the Regional Bishops’ Councils, Secretaries of CBCI Office/Councils, and Resident Priests was held at the CBCI Centre, Delhi, on 16th and 17th November, 2018. The Apostolic Nuncio invited them and apprised himself of the work the different Offices and Regions were doing. He underlined the need for communion and communication in our work. He insisted on the holiness of the priesthood and expressed his immense admiration and love for the Church in India. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=2uRj3KASNJ8=

Promoting Healthy Ageing at the work place is the need of the time

The national CBCI Education consultation was attended by over 100 participants who were National and Provincial Education Coordinators, regional and Diocesan Education Secretaries. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX., Archbishop John Moolachira, Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, Bishop Charles Soreng, Padma Shri Geeta Dharmarajan The national assembly of CBCI Office for Labour and Workers and Rev. Fr. A.S. Antonisamy, and Mrs. Payal Wahi were the India Federation held at KROSS, Bangalore from November 16 prominent speakers who gave loads of inputs and food for thought to 19, 2018 resolved to promote active and healthy Ageing at the on Education. Workplace within the Church Communities and in the society. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=6G1yDWp3xOg= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=JQ3YyQ1A9oM=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 18 19 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI Celebrates 143rd Birth Anniversary of Birsa The CBCI President Cardinal Oswald Gracias met the Munda Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi On the occasion of The newly elected President 143rd birth anniversary of the Catholic Bishops’ of Birsa Munda, the Conference of India (CBCI), CBCI Office for Tribal His Eminence Cardinal Affairs organised a Oswald Gracias, met the small service on 15th Honourable Prime Minister, November, 2018. Shri Narendra Modi, at the For details: PM’s Office in Parliament http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=fr8R3Pv~~tN0= House. Among other things, the Cardinal also discussed Vatican Appoints Mr. Cyril John as a Member of Charis with the Honourable Prime The Catholic Bishops’ Conference Minister the possibility of a of India (CBCI) congratulates Mr visit of Pope Francis to our Country. Cyril John on his appointment, as For details see: a member of CHARIS (Catholic http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=HCfDiljfSB4= Charismatic Renewal International Service) constituted on the personal Thanksgiving Mass in Delhi for the gift of St Oscar initiative of the Holy Father Pope Romero Francis. 2018 was a red letter day For details: for the priests, religious http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=qTT7Y~~48wuk= and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Delhi. The Dalit Liberation Sunday Sacred Heart Cathedral, Gole Dakkhana, New Delhi was packed with people as they gathered for the 11.30am Eucharist to give thanks to God for the gift of St Oscar Romero to the Church. The solemn Eucharist was celebrated by His Excellency Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The Dalit Liberation Sunday was celebrated meaningfully in For details: many dioceses in India. In the National capital, Delhi the Dalit http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=U7u2tvui8OI= Liberation Sunday was celebrated with a solemn Holy Mass in the Sacred Heart Cathedral. Farewell for Fr. Joseph Chinnayyan, and Welcome for For details: Fr. Jervis D’Souza http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=kN67x8sv81k=

Inauguration of CBCI-OSC Website

The CBCI-OSC Chairman Bishop Most Rev. Salvadore Lobo A farewell was organized for Fr Joseph Chinnayyan, outgoing along with Bishops and Fathers inaugurated the new CBCI- Deputy Secretary General, CBCI on May 23, 2018 at the CBCI OSC Website. It is a dynamic website and is accessible at www. Centre. Fr. Jervis D’Souza, the new Deputy Secretary General, cbciosc.com. CBCI was given a welcome. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=bDH26/Put2k= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=F5qitxRUH9w= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 20 21 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI Office for SC/BC shows Solidarity with Kevin’s family CBCI Office for Education and Culture Interacts with the Delhi Archdiocesan Schools

Kevin a Dalit Christian S/O Mr. Joseph and Mary in Kottayam, Kerala was allegedly murdered in the name of honour killing for marrying Neenu who is a Syrian Christian. Fr. Devasagayaraj, Secretary to the CBCI Office for SC/BC along with Fr. Shaj Kumar, 42 heads of schools of the Delhi Archdiocese came together to Regional Secretary to the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council discuss the various educational concerns on 26th November 2018, (KCBC), Fr. Albert, Vijayapuram diocesan SC/ST commission at the Convent of Jesus and Mary School, New Delhi. secretary, Mr. James, State President of Dalit Catholic Maha For details: Sabha (DCMS) and Mr. Shibu Joseph, Vijayapuram diocesan http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Eev3dY1NSBQ= DCMS president. Fr. Devasagayaraj extended condolences to the family For details: Orientation program for spokespersons and working http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=3uCWDpGAJNY= committee members of all India Catholic Union (AICU)

South Indian SC/ST/BC Regional/ Diocesan Secretaries Meet

A Meeting of the South Indian SC/ST/BC Commission Regional and Diocesan Secretaries was organized by the CBCI Office for Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX., Secretary General of the Dalits and Backward Classes on 23rd November 2018 at Indian Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India in his inaugural address Social Institute, Bangalore. The main objective of the meeting said that the Catholic Church used to have the best communicators was to enhance collaboration and coordination with the regional at one point of time but after the advent of social media we have commissions of SC/ST/BC. fallen behind and are placed in a peculiar situation in the country. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=d~~GDQWSiexc= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=jZ6g/Yn8TEM=

The Catholic Church and Caritas opens Rebuilding Peace Meeting of Inter-Religious and Ecumenical Phase in Flood-Hit Kerala Leaders

A Peace Meeting of Inter-Religious and Ecumenical Leaders was held in Jaipur, Rajasthan on 1st December 2018. The all-religion The Chairperson of Caritas India, Bishop Lumen Monteiro of seminar on inter community peace and national harmony was Agartala opened the rehabilitation phase of the CBCI Agency’s jointly organized by All India Catholic Union, Alliance Defence aid programs among the flood-hit dioceses of Kerala. Forum, India and Jaipur Catholic Welfare Society. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=FE7A67DMvjU= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=iuXRmdXiI~~A= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 20 21 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 The President of the CBCI Cardinal Oswald Gracias Catholic Youth leaders receive training in Agra Inaugurates the ‘GREEN DIOCESE INITIATIVE’. 1 September is celebrated as World Day of Prayer for Creation. On this occasion the Bombay CCC prepared a short video containing an inspiring message by Cardinal Oswald Gracias inaugurating the ‘Green Diocese Initiative’. For details: As many as 91 youth leaders from 11 dioceses of Agra region http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=XEXLQHFAW/M= participated in the 19th programme for trainers at Gyan Deep, the newly inaugurated pastoral centre of the Diocese of Jaipur, from A Catholic Response to Supreme Court ruling on Passive November 21 to 23. The training programme was designed by Euthanasia Fr Deepak Thomas KJ OCD, Executive Secretary CBCI Council for Youth, incorporating the methodology of “Fun, Process, Motivation and Reflection”. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=zRt7~~k1YtXE=

Drum Dance Demonstration

By Fr. Stephen Fernandes, Secretary of CBCI Office for Justice, Peace and Development The Church rejects any proposal concerning active euthanasia Demonstration with Dalit Drums, Folk songs and music was as well as passive euthanasia. No one can in any way permit the held on 4th December 2018 at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, demanding killing of an innocent human being, whether a fetus or an embryo, Scheduled Caste right to Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims. It an infant or an adult, an old person, or one suffering from an was organised by Dalit Christian Artists Coordination Committee. incurable disease, or a person who is dying. Adavu Cultural team from Tamilnadu performed the Dalit Drum For details: ‘Parai’. “If you don’t listen to our voices at least listen to our http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=lZb8BcJOF1Y= Drums” said Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas the Secretary General of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India. Awards for Dalit & Tribal Catholic Girls For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=LzjY5/KBBuY=

Arunachal Pradesh blesses and inaugurates the biggest Church in the State

The CBCI Council for Women together with the CBCI Offices for SC/BC and Tribal Affairs honored the toppers of Class X & XII girls from the Dalit and the Tribal Catholic Communities and the The biggest Church in Arunachal Pradesh was blessed and economically weaker sections in society. inaugurated on 5th December 2018 in Neotan, one of the last For details: villages of the Northeastern India. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=f7MJkztdvYY= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=zQlr1/7Uqh4= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 22 23 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Christmas Celebrations at the Catholic Bishops’ Cardinal Oswald Gracias, President of CBCI prays for Conference of India Peace, Unity, and Harmony among all Communities

His Eminence, Oswald Cardinal Gracias, President of the CBCI presided over the Annual Christmas Archdiocesan interreligious Celebration of the Bombay Archdiocese. Consular Corps of several countries and the people of different faiths: Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Zoroastrians – the diversity that represents India were present. For details: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, hosted its annual http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=2dFZMksx3Jo= Christmas gathering on 13th Dec. 2018, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral premises, New Delhi. Ministers, Members of The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India celebrates Parliament, Bureaucrats, Ambassadors and members of the Christmas with street children Diplomatic corps, Bishops, Priests, Sisters, Brothers, leaders of various Christian denominations and different faiths and the laity attended the function. The Chief Guest for the evening was Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Honourable Former President of India and Cardinal Oswald Gracias President of CBCI presided over the function. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=3KAM7ThU~~Oo=

Glowing tributes paid to Justice Kurian Joseph by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI)

In another novel initiative, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India invited 25 street children for a Christmas dinner at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi on 20th December, 2018. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=S36ul3EN8Ls=

Christmas message by CBCI Secretary General on All India Radio Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, of his life, his ministry his ultimate sacrifice for humanity. It is the remembrance of all that Glowing tributes were paid to Justice Kurian Joseph by the he stood for and of everything Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), as he demitted he taught us. This was the his office on 30th November 2018. A special Eucharist presided message given by Bishop over by His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias was celebrated Theodore Mascarenhas on 14th December, 2018, in the CBCI Chapel to thank God for the Secretary General of the CBCI in his address to broadcast on gift of the person of Justice Kurian to the Nation and the Church. Christmas Day by all India Radio Overseas service. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Xc8egc5BLDo= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=LN1vgeh9QmE=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 22 23 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 Bringing Christmas Joy to the Dalit Community Training on Bonded Labour abolition act, 1976 and His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Migration Gracias, President of the CBCI celebrated Christmas with the Dalit Community from the Cheetah Camp area of Trombay, Mumbai. 88 people from 21 families were hosted at Archbishop’s House, on the morning of Christmas Day. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=QRX2/02SGmI=

Sharing and Caring at Christmas Our joy in the birth of Jesus is best shown by our willingness to take His love and compassion to those who may be unable to come to Him or still dwell CBCI Office for Labour/ Workers India Federation (WIF) in on the peripheries. Pope Francis has, collaboration with the Diocese of Ahmedabad Labour Commission at every opportunity, encouraged us organised one day training on Bonded Labour and Migration on to reach out to those in need. Cardinal 19th December, 2018 at KAIRA Social service Society, Hansol, Oswald Gracias, President of the CBCI Ahmedabad. The Purpose of the programme was to commemorate the International Migrants day as well as to train the Animators on Bonded Labour. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=MVPDttTQWLw=

Vandalisation of Places of Worship in Sundargarh District of Odisha

has followed the Holy Father’s example, through various outreach programs during the Christmas season. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=AGg49AiUCM8=

Dalit Children asked to Follow Ambedkar

In the late night of Easter Sunday, miscreants vandalized some Christian places of worship in the Diocese of Rourkela and also chopped off the head of a statue of a bull at the Shiva Temple in the vicinity. It seemed to be an attempt to create communal divides among the people. A delegation comprising of Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, the Secretary General of the CBCI, Archbishop John Barwa SVD, the Chairman of the Odisha Catholic Bishops’ Council, Bishop Kishor Kumar Kujur, the Bishop of Rourkela, Shalin Maria Lawrence, a Dalit Christian author and activist on Bishop Telesphore Bilung SVD, the of the December 29 urged a group of children from her community to Ranchi, Bishop Alphonse Bilung, SVD, Emeritus of Rourkela, follow the example of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the principal visited the affected areas. They led the people in prayer at each architect of the Constitution of India, and a founding father of the of the affected places for reparation as well as for forgiveness and Republic of India. The children came from several evening study conversion of those who were involved in these reprehensible centers managed by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India crimes. (CBCI) in Tamil Nadu. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=STNylKf8gOg= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=8Hc2mH40U14=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 24 25 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 CBCI CARD Office comes to the CBCI Centre The Catholic Bishops’ Conference represented at the funeral of the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Inauguration of the new Office of CBCI CARD at CBCI Centre by Secretary General of CBCI and Mr. Subrat Mohanty, Project Coordinator. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, the Secretary General of the For details: CBCI and Fr. Jervis D’Souza Deputy Secretary General of CBCI http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=6g~~x35jd3eI= attended the funeral service of Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. They were accorded prime places at the funeral. Earlier, WE THE PEOPLE Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the President of the CBCI, in a press release of condolences praised the departed leader as one who was very helpful to he Christian community and a man who worked for peace and harmony. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=uSfUthkcXQU=

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has proposed to include lessons on the preamble of the Constitution and constitutional values in the curriculum in Catholic Church-administered schools. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=PCqh8ELvxLk=

DONATE TO THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE OF INDIA “God loves a cheerful giver” – St. Paul in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Bank Details CBCI FOREIGN INDIAN Name of Account: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, CBCI Name of Account Holder: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India Savings Bank Account No: 11050100079021 Savings Bank Account Number: 0153053000000802 Name of Bank: The Federal Bank Ltd. Name of Bank: The South Indian Bank Ltd. Address of Bank: M-17 Connaught Circus, New Delhi - 110001 Address of the Bank: Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001 IFSC Code: FDRL0001105 IFSC Code: SIBL0000153

SWIFT Code: FDRLINBBIBD CBCI Bank Details

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 24 25 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS DURING THE YEAR 2018

January 12, 2018 Rev. Fr. John Nellikunnel to the office of Bishop of the Eparchy of Idukki. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=QkmU4oqLVvE=

Rev. Fr. James Athikalam, MST, as the new Bishop of the Eparchy of Sagar.

The Holy Father accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Anthony Chirayath, Bishop of the Eparchy of Sagar on reaching the age limit. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Ae/VctUpAPA=

January 26, 2018 Monsignor Tuomo T. Vimpari, as First Counsellor to the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria. Contemporarily, Monsignor Javier Domingo Fernández González, serving the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria, was designated as his successor in the Apostolic Nunciature in India. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=acE7lgY2Y0E=

January 29, 2018 Rev. Fr. Athanasius Rethna Swamy S., of the clergy of Ahmedabad, as the new Bishop of Ahmedabad. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=lqUnd4BYIDY=

Appointments to CBCI Responsibilities Fr. Jervis D’Souza, of the Archdiocese of Bombay, as the New Deputy Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI).

Fr. Polly Moonjely of the Archdiocese of Ernakulam as the New Executive Director of Caritas India.

Fr. Jolly Puthenpura of the Diocese of Amravati as the Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India.

Dr. Cherian (Joby) Karukaparambil of the Archdiocese of Changanacherry was appointed Secretary of CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism.

Chevalier Advocate V C Sebastian from the Diocese of Kanjirapally was appointed Secretary of the CBCI Council for Laity. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ntglSADvc9c=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 26 27 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 March 19, 2018 Most Rev. Peter Machado, until now Bishop of Belgaum, as the new Archbishop of Bangalore.

His Holiness Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Bernard Blasius Moras from the pastoral care of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, according to Canon Law 401 § 1 For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=HFj5Lh31dsY=

April 10, 2018 Most Rev. Samuel Mar Irenios, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum, as Coadjutor, Bishop of the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta.

Most Rev. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, the present Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malankara Church and Apostolic Visitator to Europe and Oceania, as of the Eparchy of Muvattupuzha. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=IbIulHBSApw=

April 18, 2018 Rev. Msgr. Paul Antony Mullassery, Vicar General of Quilon, as the new Bishop of Quilon.

His Holiness Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Bishop on reaching the age limit For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=LYSXtbN98vE=

June 5, 2018 Rev. Fr. Eusebio Fernandes was elected the Diocesan Administrator of Belgaum. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=buaGo1NUc48=

June 8, 2018 Rev. Fr. Fulgence Aloysius Tigga, Vicar General of the diocese of Bettiah as the Bishop of Raiganj. For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=14aRzIk28Xg=

June 8, 2018 Rev. Fr. Dennis Panipitchai, SDB, Parish Priest of Mary Immaculate Parish, Chingmeirong, in the Archdiocese of Imphal as the Auxiliary Bishop of Miao. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=he~~q2OIJA/o=

June 22, 2018 Most Rev. Jacob Manathodath, Bishop of Palghat, as Apostolic Administrator sede plena of the Archeparchy of Ernakulam- Angamaly. For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=8Uclhra/iUo=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 26 27 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 June 24, 2018 Most. Rev.Felix Toppo, SJ, Bishop of Jamshedpur, as the new Archbishop of Ranchi.

His Holiness Pope Francis accepted the resignation of His Eminence Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo from the pastoral care of the Archdiocese of Ranchi, according to Canon Law 401 § 1, For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=tHh4ACOT3II=

June 29, 2018 Most. Rev. Sebastian Kallupura, Bishop of Buxar, as Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Patna. For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=//GcGkus~~xg=

June 29, 2018 Most Rev. Antony Pappusamy Archbishop of Madurai as Apostolic Administrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the Diocese of Palayamkottai.

His Holiness, Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Jude Gerald Paulraj A. as Bishop of Palayamkottai For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=pKuxSgISWGE=

July 3, 2018 Rev. Fr. Peter Paul Saldanha, of the clergy of Mangalore, as Bishop of Mangalore.

His Holiness Pope Francis accepted the resignation of His Lordship Rt. Rev. Aloysius Paul D’Souza from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Mangalore, according to Canon Law 401 § 1 For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=IsTJwe8/Etc=

July 14, 2018 Most Rev. Devdass Ambrose Mariadoss, Bishop of Thanjavur as Apostolic Administrator Sede Vacante of Tiruchirapalli.

His Holiness, Pope Francis has accepted the resignation from the Pastoral Ministry of the Bishop of Tiruchirapallli, Most Antony Devotta on reaching the age limit. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=4~~hej5iDepk=

August 6, 2018 Fr. Augustine Topno has been elected the Diocesan Administrator of Jamshedpur. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=FEAPLnHLz2g=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 28 29 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 September 20, 2018 The Holy Father accepted the request of Bishop Franco Mulakkal to be temporarily relieved of his pastoral responsibilities in the diocese of Jalandhar.

The Holy Father appointed Bishop Agnelo Rufino Gracias, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Bombay as Apostolic Administrator of the diocese of Jalandhar, sede plena et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis For Details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=bR3~~TLpDBSI=

December 2, 2018 Rev. Fr. Albert Hemrom appointed as the Coadjutor Bishop of Dibrugarh. For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=qXcHznhg46o=

December 3, 2018 Most Rev. Elias Gonsalves, Bishop of Amravati appointed as the new Archbishop of Nagpur. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=DbmkANIRe5A=

December 10, 2018 Rt. Rev. Gali Bali, Bishop Emeritus of Guntur, appointed as the Apostolic Administrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the Diocese of Cuddapah.

His Holiness, Pope Francis accepted the resignation of His Lordship Rt. Rev. Prasad Gallela as Bishop of Cuddapah, For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=KzqXBt1/xnM=

December 20, 2018 Fr. John Xavier, Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Gwalior For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=SZTKe7zMAAA=

December 12, 2018 His Holiness, Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of His Lordship Rt. Rev. Addagatla Innayya Chinna as Bishop of Srikakulam.

His Holiness, Pope Francis appointed His Grace Most Rev. Prakash Mallavarapu, Metropolitan Archbishop of Visakhapatnam, as Apostolic Administrator Sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the Diocese of Srikakulam. For. Details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=CvMnmHJDyhs= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=XpP0W2CO5aw=

Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 28 29 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 OUR BELOVED WHO LEFT FOR THEIR HEAVENLY ABODE IN 2018

January 16th 2018 Most Rev. Geevarghese Mar Divannasios, Bishop Emeritus of Puttur Diocese of the Syro-Malankara returned to the Father on 16th January, 2018, at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital, Tiruvalla, Kerala. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=x1bCx5XjQ3I=

January 28th 2018 Most Rev Maxwell Noronha, Bishop Emeritus of Calicut, returned to the Father on 28th January, 2018, at Nirmala Hospital, Marikunnu, Calicut, Kerala. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=krow8Ewmod4=

February 26th 2018: Most Rev. Kagithapu Mariadas, Emeritus Archbishop of Visakhapatnam left for his heavenly abode on 26th February 2018 in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Visakhapatnam. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=jE4OoTAhI64=

April 18th 2018 Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara, Archbishop of Nagpur returned to the Heavenly Father at the CBCI Centre New Delhi on 18th April, 2018. For details: http://www.cbci.in/Circular.aspx?&id=IvCVVcJzT2I= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=qQu6jkOtZyc=

Most Rev. Robert Kerketta, SDB, Bishop Emeritus of Tezpur died on 22nd December, 2018 at Baptist Christian Hospital Tezpur. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=TRqkDaRYApA= https://cbci.in/Obituary.aspx?type=3&id=z7j3IpGUGi4=

Most Rev. Thomas Thennatt, SAC, Bishop of Gwalior died in a road traffic accident on Friday, 14th December 2018. For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=qJW7YBP1WBg= https://cbci.in/Obituary.aspx?type=3&id=J2vMKV7XxCo=

PRESS RELEASES in 2018

• Press Release at the beginning of the New Year 2018 • Press Release on the unfortunate incidents of armed goondaism For details: and terrorism against a Catholic Hospital and Maternity Home http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ruAR4GBW7jQ= in Ujjain. For details: •  Press Release on the situation at the Catholic St. Mary’s College, http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=rjtqp449DeU= Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh For details: • Press Release at the conclusion of XXXIII General Body http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=6gDVrOurhBk= Meeting of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), held • Response of the Catholic Church to the Supreme Court ruling in Bengaluru, from February 2 - 9, 2018. on passive Euthanasia For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=wqW4S0GMP0Q= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=lZb8BcJOF1Y= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 30 31 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 • Statement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India on the • Press Release from Cardinal Oswald Gracias, President, occasion of the celebration of the Holy Week, 2018. CBCI on interference into the Christian religious practice of For details: Confession. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=XbCwnARKKTQ= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=Lhh1UBYeC2k= • Press Release on meeting of the CBCI President Cardinal • Press Release on the sad demise of His Eminence Cardinal Jean Oswald Gracias with the honourable Prime Minister, Shri Louis Tauran Narendra Modi. For details see : For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=bLpCQzoU~~fY= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=HCfDiljfSB4= • Press Release on the sad demise of Dr M. Karunanidhi • Press Release on Collective action for dialogue and social For details: harmony organized by CBCI in collaboration with the Agnel http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=LD3rEOFvtk4= Region of the Society of Pilar and Bharitya Sarva Dharama Sansad. • Pastoral letter for Justice Sunday, August 9th, 2018 For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=AIScpjJlyDA= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=OXCOAF7tRKk=

• Press Release on vandalisation of places of worship in • Press Release on the unprecedented floods in Kerala Sundargarh district of Odisha. For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=~~J2zC7hiQ84= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=STNylKf8gOg= • Press Release for the Holy Mass for reconciliation, thanksgiving and grace on the 10th anniversary of Kandhamal. • Press Release: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India For details: expresses its deep pain and anguish at the incidents against http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=MHDB9iqy57g= women in Kathua, Unnao and other places in the country. For details: • Appeal for solidarity and contribution towards national disaster http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ureun/SjrBw= in Kerala. For details: • Press Release on Dust Storm Tragedy http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=e6HAsLK0oWE= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=J97UdNziVr4= • Press Release on the sad demise of our beloved former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee • Official Clarification on a malicious fake letter circulated in For details: social media and in Karnataka http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=YsghXEmS/bc= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=G~~mVY021IIw= • Press Statement on the recent happenings in the Church in India http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=PrBIrScM/eU= by His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay & President of CBCI. • Information on Constitutional Lessons in Catholic Schools For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=9lGuYbAOeT0= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=PCqh8ELvxLk= • Press Statement on Bishop Franco Mulakkal. For details: • Press Release on the developments at Nirmal Hriday, http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=bR3~~TLpDBSI= Missionaries of Charity home at East Jail Road, Ranchi. For Details: • Press Release on the tragic railway accident in Amritsar. http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=~~eVbD5~~Cxdo= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=9/8HEp3~~xm4= • Press Release on the sad Demise of Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran. For Details: • Vatican Message for Guru Nanak Prakash Diwas 2018 http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=bLpCQzoU~~fy= For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=jRpy99/Lprw= • Kerala Catholic Bishop’s Council Press Release about Confessions • Diwali Greetings For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=ZXk0iwFSu~~0= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=I87iAgoeNeg=

• Kerala Catholic Bishop’s Council letter to the National Minority • Press Release on the damage caused by Cyclone Gaja Commission of India For details: For details: http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=MZaIg21OG70= http://www.cbci.in/detail_Slide1.aspx?type=3&id=rdQNtGKnhmI= Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 30 31 Vol. XXVII January - December 2018 (For Private Circulation only) Private (For Mobile : (0) 9871147838, E-mail : [email protected] Mobile : (0) 9871147838, E-mail CBCI Center, 1, Ashok Place, Near Gole Dakkhana, New Delhi - 110001 1, Ashok Place, Near Gole Dakkhana, New CBCI Center, Edited by Fr. Anthony Fernandes, SFX and published by the Secretary Genral, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India Conference Bishops’ Catholic Genral, the Secretary and published by SFX Fernandes, Anthony Fr. by Edited

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