THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF DELHI CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE VOL. 30, ISSUE 2 FEBRUARY 2021 `10

Servant of God Sr. Mary Bernadette Prasad Kispotta! The Founder of the Congregation of the Daughters of St. Anne-Ranchi and the First Tribal Servant of God! Violence against women 17 30 We pray for women who are Sacrament of Confirmation 24 Hours Intercessory victims of violence, that they and Holy Communion at Eucharistic Adoration at may be protected by society and Good Shepherd Church, Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, Hauz Khas. Burari. have their sufferings considered and heeded. HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTION FOR FEBRUARY 2021 Violence against women We pray for women who are victims of violence, that they may be protected by society and have their sufferings considered and heeded. Contents from the editor

5 The Shepherd’s Voice 8 Musings of the Month 9 Lent: Authentic Fasting Spring time to Celebrate Women 10 Theology & Christian Life - 15 11 Special 12 Parish Roundup fr. sTanley Kozhichira 23 School Snippets 29 Diocesan Digest 37 Calendar of Feasts It would be shocking to most of us to come to terms with the fact that India is considered to be one of the world's most dangerous countries for women. Rape is one of the most common patron crimes in India. Archbishop Anil J.T. Couto editor And in the world, one in three women experience physical or Fr. Stanely Kozhichira sexual violence, mostly by an intimate partner. But we consider editorial board that the atrocities against women is only about gangrapes and Augustine Kurien Deepanjali Rao throwing acid seldom realising that it is mostly the closest Divya Joy partner or person to the women take the lead in carying out finance and circulation manager these heinous crimes. Fr. Francis Prasad secretariat In a country where major deities are female, one woman gets Tency Thomas Design concept raped every twenty minutes (According to the National Crime Mustardtree.in Records Bureau). While dieties and saints are respected and printed and published by revered. Fr. Januario Rebello on behalf of Delhi Catholic Archdiocese What is talked about educating our women and how women help DESIGN & printed at build the society is absolutely true. In fact, a nation can develop Bosco Society for Printing & Graphic Training, Okhla Road, New Delhi - 110 025 in the truest sense only if its women are equal and well treated. Tel.: 26839864, 26910729 In fact, violence against women and girls is a human rights Published by Delhi Catholic Archdiocese 1 Ashok Place, New Delhi - 110001 violation, and the immediate and long-term physical, Tel.: (+91-11) 23343457, 23362058 sexual, and mental consequences for women and girls can Fax: (+91-11) 23746575 be devastating, including death. Violence negatively affects Email: [email protected] Facebook: Voiceofdelhi Archdiocese Delhi women’s general well-being and prevents women from Website: www.archdiocesedelhi.com fully participating in society. It impacts their families, their community, and the country at large. annual subscription `150 (by post); US $ 25 (abroad); UK £ 15 In this context the Holy Father urges all pray for women. His (abroad); Europe € 13 (abroad) clarion call is “We pray for women who are victims of violence, By Local cheque/bank draft favouring “The Voice of Delhi” that they may be protected by society and have their sufferings Contributions for publication may be sent to considered and heeded.” the above address by post or by email to: [email protected] As we begin the season of lent this month, let one of the Editor’s mobile: 9868353289 resolutions during this spring time of spiritual life be to respect

The articles, news reports and other materials women. Also speak for women not only on social media but also published in this magazine (other than the in real spaces. The least we can all do is to daily say a prayer for Shepherd’s Voice) reflect the views of the authors them. And treat women in our circle with respect and honour. and not of the Archdiocese of Delhi and VOD does not take any responsibility or liability for the same. Happy Lent and celebrate life.

Total Page No. 40 February 2021 3 Letters the shepherd’s voiCe thank you for writing to us, we're sharingLetters it here for aLL to read!

thank you for writing to us, we're sharing it here for aLL to read! welcoming and refreshing. It has if an international magazine of The Little been given a VERY INTERNATIONAL magnificence. Really incredible! It LOOK. May God bless the team is WRITEindeed TOendearing. US All of us at St. in bringing forthcoming issues Michael’s Church, Prasad Nagar We look forward to communicating successfully. congratulatemore often with you our and readers. the entire Feel team Virtues My best wishes at freeVOD to for write such to us,a marvelous with the kind make Dear Father, grateful to you for overof Dear information in the Editor, beginning you I happy would of liketoits see 26thus tothe year Sophiathe monthly Biju Mathew Parish roundups. It is ofchanges includepublishing. andin the your Voice views of on Delhi the content! and SHAHBADsuch a beautiful way of sharing and WithyourTogether teamsrespects we effort are and the toregards, Voicemake of it Delhi. look getting inspired through the activities betterEmail: and [email protected] readable. Kindly pay of various Parishes. Thanks for the C.M.attention Thomas to the the language and in Christ or life in the Spirit is a life of virtue. The New Testament efforts I liked put thein to entire get us new updated look of with the PRASADspellings. nAGAR constantly calls us to repent and lead virtuous lives if we are Voiceeverything of DelhiRev. happening Fr. - JanuaryStanley in Kozhichira,2017 various edition. truly disciples of Christ and members of his Body the Church. TheParishes. changeEditor is very much appreciated Shreedhar The call of Christian life is to have “the mind of Christ” (cf. and drawsVoice an instant of Delhi attraction. Laxmi Nagar life 1Cor. 2:14-16; Phil. 2: 5-7) which leads us to “empty ourselves” Catherine Thomas The qualityRespected of paper Rev and Fr. printing Stanley is Kozhichira, as Christ emptied himself so that we become joyful people. ofAlaknanda high standard and the cover design The beautiful words of St. Paul to the Philippians: Finally, brethren, whatever is true, JANUARYJanuary 2021 2017 deserves Greetingsspecial applauds. from St. Articles Michael's are Church, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever informativePrasad giving Nagar! people insightful WRITE TO US is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about It was a pleasant surprise to all perspectives Thanks a thatlot for allow the tobeautiful adapt the we look forward to communicating these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the of us to see January issue of the Voice spiritualVoice of Delhineeds. every Wishing month you with all the a lot more often with our readers, feel God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:8-9). For and on behalf of Parish Priests and parishioners of St. Michael’s of Delhi in a new shape with quality bestof creativity and may and the newness.I coming editions would likebe free to write to us, with the kind of The Catechism of the Catholic Church begins the section on “Virtues” by quoting information you would like us to inputs for readers. Your efforts to ofto greatsay the reflections.Church, “well issue” Prasad by Nagar, Fr. Maxim I take this opportunity to convey gratitude the above words of St. Paul. Virtues are divided into “Human Virtues” and “Theological October 2017 include, your views on the content! Pinto is reallyto your enriching. goodself and the Editorial Board for publishing write-up and make the VOD classical magazine With best wishes, Together we are the Voice of Delhi. Virtues”. “Human virtues: are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections photographs in the Voice of Delhi, January 2021 issue on the following: of the Archdiocese has borne fruit. email: [email protected] of intellect and will, that govern our actions, order our passions and guide our conduct Please Dear accept Editor, our “Discovering congratulations PhilaminWilliam Herald* Philip Christmas Celebrations. according to reason and faith. They make possible: ease, self-mastery and joy in leading andIdentity” gratitude by Professor for the initiative Dean put in ARohinilAknAnDA a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good” (CCC 1804). byFernandes, you and yourwas ateam great in read revitalising this It is in the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments that give us the divine teachings With regards, VODtime. making Like many it the youngsters readers' delight. I also The heavens on virtues. The Wisdom literature of the Old Testament is particularly filled with moral Regards,have such confusions in mind about CongratsYours on sincerely, the very impressive teachings pertaining to human behaviour. Human virtues are “acquired by education, by identity. The article did really help makeover of VOD. The Look is are telling the deliberate acts and by a perseverance ever-renewed in repeated efforts”, but they are also Ame Chinnappan to realize a great line of thoughts. polished forand St. professional, Michael's Church, the Prasad article Nagar glory of God; and “purified and elevated by divine grace” (CCC 1810). MAYUR VIHAR III layout veryC M well Thomas done, as also the Four human virtues play a pivotal role in our moral life, hence they are called “cardinal” Zen Johnson Ayyanad quality ofMobile the printing. No. 8700617332 Clearly a lot of the firmament virtues. All other virtues are grouped around them. The cardinal virtues are:- Prudence “is Gurugram thought and effort has gone into this St. Anna the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance While congratulating you for the remodeling and the result is there proclaims his and to choose the right means of achieving it” (CCC 1806). Justice “is the moral virtue new look VOD, I wish I am 50 years for all of us to appreciate. Once again and Joachim that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC younger Respected to read Rev your Fr. script. Stanley congrats to you, and the team of VOD handiwork. Day 1807). Fortitude “is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in LoveKozhichira, and prayers Prayerful greetings! For and Mustard Tree. to daypresented pours forth the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome and on behalf of Parish Priests and “I do not promise you happiness in this world but obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of KCparishioners Jacob of St. Michael’s Church, Audrey Carvalho Daver young Mary death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his speech, andin thenight next” PITAMPURAPrasad Nagar, I take this opportunity life in defense of a just cause” (CCC 1808). Temperance “is the moral virtue that moderates to express gratitude to your goodself -Our Lady of toLourdes nightto the to declares St. temple. Bernadette the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the and the Editorial Board for publishing It is with a stunning surprise will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honourable. write-up I take andthis photographs opportunity toin the to our eyes we all at our parish knowledge.Mary Presented The temperate person directs the sensitive appetites toward what is good, and maintains wishVoice VOD of Delhi, A Very October Happy 2017 New issue Year received the Voice of Delhi January a healthy discretion” (CCC 1809). PSALM 19:1-2 andon the congratulate following: the"Celebration team on the of St. 2017 issue having fascinating in the Temple, The human virtues are rooted in the theological virtues “which adapt man’s faculties 4 The Voice of Delhi NEWThomas LOOK Feast given And to SCC VOD. Annual It is very Day" design, style, composition and as Pray for us. for participation in the divine nature: for the theological virtues relate directly to With respects and regards, Yours 4sincerely The Voice of Delhi february 2017 5

C M Thomas Prasad Nagar

4 The voice of Delhi Letters the shepherd’s voiCe thank you for writing to us, we're sharing it here for aLL to read!

From False Self to True Self welcoming and refreshing. It has if an international magazine of The Little been given a VERY INTERNATIONAL magnificence. Really incredible! It t. Paul in his letter to the Colossians (Col 3: 1-17) places before us the touchstone LOOK. May God bless the team is indeed endearing. All of us at St. of Christian life which hangs on one powerful expression within his exhortation: in bringing forthcoming issues Michael’s Church, Prasad Nagar “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3). While successfully. congratulate you and the entire team S Virtueswe are still physically alive on this earth he calls us ‘dead’ – but dead to what? My best wishes at VOD for such a marvelous make To sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, covetousness, anger, wrath, malice, over in the beginning of its 26th year slander, obscene talk, lies and everything that belongs to the ‘old self’ which we have put off Sophia Biju Mathew of publishing. in baptism. Because our lives are now hidden with Christ in God we have put on the ‘new self’ SHAHBAD With respects and regards, which belongs to Christ who is our life. This new self is the restoration of the divine image in which we were originally created; this image was lost due to sin but regained in the death and C.M. Thomas in Christ or life in the Spirit is a life of virtue. The New Testament resurrection of Christ. What are the characteristics of being ‘alive’ in Christ? Compassionate I liked the entire new look of the PRASAD nAGAR constantly calls us to repent and lead virtuous lives if we are heart, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forbearance, quick forgiveness and love “which Voice of Delhi - January 2017 edition. truly disciples of Christ and members of his Body the Church. binds everything together in perfect harmony”. When we live this life “hidden in Christ with The change is very much appreciated The call of Christian life is to have “the mind of Christ” (cf. God” the peace of Christ begins to rule in our hearts, and where there is peace and love there and draws an instant attraction. life 1Cor. 2:14-16; Phil. 2: 5-7) which leads us to “empty ourselves” is also unity of the one body of Christ. Therefore he insists that we are no more “Greek and The quality of paper and printing is as Christ emptied himself so that we become joyful people. Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in of high standard and the cover design The beautiful words of St. Paul to the Philippians: Finally, brethren, whatever is true, JANUARY 2017 all” – all these man-made distinctions of the ‘old self’ or the ‘false self’ are removed because deserves special applauds. Articles are whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever Christ, who is in all, is the only defining reality. We do everything, whether in word or deed, in informative giving people insightful WRITE TO US is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior and Liberator. It was a pleasant surprise to all perspectives that allow to adapt the we look forward to communicating these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the Another beautiful characteristic of the ‘new self’ emphasized by St. Paul is of us to see January issue of the Voice spiritual needs. Wishing you all the more often with our readers, feel God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:8-9). ‘thankfulness’. In all our thoughts, words and actions we are called to give thanks to God the of Delhi in a new shape with quality best and may the coming editions be free to write to us, with the kind of The Catechism of the Catholic Church begins the section on “Virtues” by quoting information you would like us to Father in Christ Jesus Our Lord; and thankfulness manifests itself in “singing psalms and inputs for readers. Your efforts to of great reflections. the above words of St. Paul. Virtues are divided into “Human Virtues” and “Theological include, your views on the content! hymns and spiritual songs”. It is not a thankfulness to God when everything is going on well make the VOD classical magazine With best wishes, Virtues”. “Human virtues: are firm attitudes, stable dispositions, habitual perfections Together we are the Voice of Delhi. with us but also when things go ‘wrong’ as we experience so many times i.e. thankfulness in of the Archdiocese has borne fruit. email: [email protected] of intellect and will, that govern our actions, order our passions and guide our conduct all circumstances. Please accept our congratulations Philamin Philip according to reason and faith. They make possible: ease, self-mastery and joy in leading This newness of life is ours through baptism but it can be lost too due to our sinfulness; and gratitude for the initiative put in AlAknAnDA a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good” (CCC 1804). therefore we need, by God’s grace, to constantly “seek the things that are above”; we need to by you and your team in revitalising It is in the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments that give us the divine teachings “put to death what is earthly” in us and put on the ‘new self’ as “God’s chosen ones, holy and VOD making it the readers' delight. The heavens on virtues. The Wisdom literature of the Old Testament is particularly filled with moral beloved”. This is a daily striving, nay of every moment, as the Saints have taught us. Regards, Congrats on the very impressive teachings pertaining to human behaviour. Human virtues are “acquired by education, by are telling the The season of Lent in particular, with its call to ‘repentance’, is God’s gift to us to makeover of VOD. The Look is are telling the deliberate acts and by a perseverance ever-renewed in repeated efforts”, but they are also enter into the process of renewal and move from worldly foolishness to divine wisdom, from A Chinnappan polished and professional, the article “purified and elevated by divine grace” (CCC 1810). glory of God; and the ‘false self’ to the ‘true self’ i.e. Christ in us and we in Christ. We have to allow the word of MAYUR VIHAR III layout very well done, as also the Four human virtues play a pivotal role in our moral life, hence they are called “cardinal” God to dwell in us richly and also help one another in all wisdom to live the new life “hidden quality of the printing. Clearly a lot of virtues. All other virtues are grouped around them. The cardinal virtues are:- Prudence “is the firmament with Christ in God”. This is the mystery of the Church, the body of Christ, that lives in Christ thought and effort has gone into this the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and wants to deepen her communion with him at every moment so that the world may believe. While congratulating you for the remodeling and the result is there proclaims his and to choose the right means of achieving it” (CCC 1806). Justice “is the moral virtue This mystery begins firstly in the Christian family and from there moves to the Church at large new look VOD, I wish I am 50 years for all of us to appreciate. Once again that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC locally and universally. younger to read your script. congrats to you, and the team of VOD handiwork. Day 1807). Fortitude “is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in ‘Repentance’ is depicted in a powerful image in the Book of Revelation– that of Love and prayers and Mustard Tree. the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome Christ knocking on our door to enter and sit at table with us: “Behold, I stand at the door and to day pours forth obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, KC Jacob Audrey Carvalho Daver death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his speech, and night and he with me” (Rev. 3:20). What is the door on which Jesus knocks? PITAMPURA life in defense of a just cause” (CCC 1808). Temperance “is the moral virtue that moderates “It is the door of our false self. It is those places in our life where we have shut God out the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the to night declares and enclosed ourselves within our self-referenced structure of being, where we are imprisoned It is with a stunning surprise will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honourable. in our false self. But notice the movement here. God doesn’t call us to clean up our act and come I take this opportunity to to our eyes we all at our parish knowledge. The temperate person directs the sensitive appetites toward what is good, and maintains out to have a good relationship with God. God calls us to open the door so that God can come in, wish VOD A Very Happy New Year received the Voice of Delhi January a healthy discretion” (CCC 1809). PSALM 19:1-2 and congratulate the team on the 2017 issue having fascinating The human virtues are rooted in the theological virtues “which adapt man’s faculties NEW LOOK given to VOD. It is very design, style, composition and as for participation in the divine nature: for the theological virtues relateFebruary directly 2021 to5

4 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 5 the shepherd’s voiCe

God” disposing Christians “to live in a Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCC lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint 1812). The theological virtues are:- Faith against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must comewhich into “is ourthe falsetheological self. God’s virtue cruciform by which love seeks this door? By forgiving the one who wronged you! This is taking up forgive. And above all these (virtues) put on love, which binds everything together in towe enter believe into in theGod depths and believe of our all darkness, that he our sin, the cross. Forgiveness is a death to your false self and its righteous perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were ourhas deadness,said and revealed our brokenness, to us, and our that bondage. Holy What indignation, its justified rationale for revenge, its fondling of the called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as you willChurch God proposes do when forGod our comes belief, in? because‘I will eat with resentment. This death is extremely painful; everything in your teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and as you sing psalms and hymns and themhe is truth and they itself” with (CCC me’. 1814). The Faith, word whichthat John uses false self screams out against it; this is truly dying with Christ. The spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word hereis indeed for ‘eat’ a gift is ofthe God, word is that“dead” is used if it in is the New instant you even touch this door of resentment with the faintest or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father Testamentnot allied to for works the Lord’s (cf. James Supper. 2:26). When Hope God enters desire to open it by forgiveness, Christ is present to enable you through him” (Col. 3:12-17). into“is theour theologicalfalse self, it virtue is the by sacrament which we of God’s to open it fully. He comes in, and as you continue to rely on him presence,desire the anotherkingdom image of heaven of the and cross. eternal God comes to enable you to forgive, you begin to experience his cruciform would like to end with a little story that may well fit into our Lord’s teaching on intolife as the our core happiness, of our placingself-referenced our trust being. in God love nurturing you in that love, healing the hurt, removing the going the “extra mile” (cf. Mt. 5:41): A man was asked to paint a boat. He brought comesChrist’s to promises bring light and into relying our darkness,not on our cleansing resentment, flushing away the bitterness until one day you realize i with him paint and brushes and began to paint the boat a bright red, as the owner intoown strength,our sin, life but into on the our help deadness, of the grace healing into that Christ’s love and forgiveness have become incarnate in you asked him. While painting, he realized there was a hole in the hull and decided to ourof the brokenness, Holy Spirit” liberation (CCC 1817). into Charity our bondage; “is to for the one who wronged you. Your Christ self has come to life!” repair it. When finished painting he received his money and left. The next day, the owner nurturethe theological us there virtueinto wholeness by which in we the love very image [M. Robert Mulholland Jr The Deeper Journey. The Spirituality of of the boat came to the painter and presented him with a nice cheque, much higher than ofGod God. above But all to thingsopen that for doorhis own is to sake, acknowledge and our Discovering Your true Self (St. Paul’s, Bandra, Mumbai, 2012)] pp. the payment for painting. The painter was surprised: falseour neighbor self and to as allow ourselves God to for come the in, love knowing of that 79-81. -You’ve already paid me for painting the boat! he said. whenGod” the(CCC love 1822). of God This encounters is what Christ the false has self, it is Ultimately it boils down to knowing God as our ‘Abba’ and -But this is not for the paint job. It’s for having repaired the hole in the boat. alwaystaught a us cruciform in the new encounter commandment for God and of for us. experiencing the infinite love of the Father revealed in Jesus Christ. Ah! But it was such a small service… certainly it’s not worth paying me such a high love at theHow Last do Supper. we do this? How do we open M. Robert Mulholland in the book cited above narrates a beautiful amount for something so insignificant! My dear friend, you do not understand. Let me tell the door? In fact, what is that door? We might story: you what happened. When I asked you to paint the boat, I forgot to mention about the think of the doorabove as any catechesis aspect ofon ourvirtues false is selfof a classical nature.In a meetingI would likeof young to also couples A a womanFFAbiLiT sharedy, something hole. When the boat dried, my kids took the boat and went on a fishing trip. They did not that prevents God from being God in our life in mention the “Little Virtues” which Fr.of her Denis spiritual Pereira pilgrimage. of Mumbai She had was the daughter of a prostitute – know that there was a hole. I was not at home at that time. When I returned and noticed God’s terms. It mayspoken be a abouthabit duringthat holds a clergy us in retreatits 19 years ago. The Little Virtues they had taken the boat, I was desperate because I remembered that the boat had a hole. The literally a job-related accident! She wasCO raisednDESCEnSiOn, up by aunts, uncles, destructive bondage,are as an important attitude that to ourdeforms Christian our life of discipleship as the two main Imagine my relief and joy when I saw them returning from fishing. Then I examined the grandparents, even her own mother from time to time. As a young waycategories of living, mentioned a perception above. that warps our view of SiMPLiCiTy, boat and found that you had repaired the hole! You see, now, what you did? You saved the teenager she was drawn into a church youth group and there she others, a pattern of relationship with others that is life of my children! I do not have enough money to pay your “small” good deed. discovered the love of God in Christ andkinDLinESS, responded to that love. destructiveWhAT ARe toThe both LiTTLe them Vi andRTU us,eS? a way of reacting So, no matter who, when or how. Just continue to help, sustain, wipe tears, listen After graduation she went to a Christian college where she met a to� Sometimes circumstances it is a thatlittle hindersindulgence, us, whicha cancerous easily pardons the faults of others, without attentively and carefully repair all the “leaks” you find, because you never know when young man with whom she fell in love andSWEETnESS they were married. OF They resentmentthe least desire whose of apoison little consideration is eating away for the self. vitals God has a pleasant surprise for us to be helpful and important to someone. You may have built up a wonderful home and two lovely children were born to of� Sometimes our being. itWhatever is a holy dissimulation,the door may bewhich for us,blinds it the eye to the patent faults of one’s ASPECT, OF ACTiOn, repaired numerous “boat holes” along the way, of several people without realizing how them. Yet she had a compulsive need to know who her father was. isneighbours, something and to which isour entirely false selfdifferent, has become as is apparent, from that petty vanity with many lives you’ve saved. She was spending every ounce of her energyOF MAnnERS, and all her resources OF attachedwhich some and preen in which themselves we are onfinding discovering something the secret faults of others. to try to find out who her father was but it was an impossible task. of� At our times identity, it is ameaning, tender compassion, value or purpose. which takesThe to itself the task of mitigating the WORDS, SuCh ARE, + Archbishop Anil Couto Her mother didn’t have the slightest idea who her clients were hingessorrows of of this the doorunfortunate, are mounted and it in is thea joy depths which of spends itself increasing the happiness archbishop of delhi nine months before she was born. ThisTO compulsive RESuMé, ‘search’ ThE was ourof the being. fortunate. To put it simply, the door is something destroying her beautiful home. Then one day a miracle happened. we� Sometimes love more also than it we is alove certain God. elasticity To open thisof spirit door which recognizes spontaneously and She was standing alone at her kitchen sink,PLEASAnT cleaning some LiTTLE dishes. In iswithout to breach the effortthe wall the ofworth our offalse an ideaself, whichto release another has had before us, applauding it the pain and anguish of her heart, her tears running down her face ouras a possessivediscovery, andgrip inthat no holdsway being the door envious closed, of the to author of it. ViRTuES. and dropping into the dishwater, she cried out, ‘Oh God, who is my respond� Now it isto athe solicitude cruciform which love anticipates of the nail-scarred another’s need, desirous to spare the pain or father?’ and she heard a voice say, ‘I am your Father’. The voice was handhumiliation that knocks, of asking to for receive help. the nurture into so real she turned around to see who had sneaked into the kitchen Christlikeness� Again it is a generosity that is offered. of heart which does anything in its power to oblige, and which behind her. There was no one. She heard the voice again, ‘I am your when it canLet’s do say but for little, example, would one wish of toyour be doorsable to is do more. Father, and I have always been your Father’. In that moment she a� Finallylong-held, it is deep-seated a sweet quiet resentment affability at which someone listens to the troubles of another with whono apparent has wronged weariness, you. Theinstructing anger, the the bitterness,ignorant without was the released bitterness from of that reproach obsessive or need to know who her biological thereprimand; pain of orwhat it is theya certain did havepoliteness birthed which dreams fulfills fatherall the had requirements been. She discovered of urbanity the truth of these words of St. Paul: ofnot revenge, only interiorly, which you as happenshave fed inand the nurtured world which so makes“…even show as he of chose these us graces, in him but before the foundation of the world… manywith artless times andthey Christian have now cordiality. become woven into In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons (and yourAffability, very being. condescension, Part of your false simplicity, self has kindliness, become sweetnessdaughters) of throughaspect, ofJesus action, Christ, of according to the purpose of his indentifiedmanners, of words,by this suchresentment. are, to resumé, How do the you pleasant open Littlewill” Virtues.(Eph. 1:4-5). However, the Little Virtues are by no means of a lesser degree than the virtues expected of a Christian as @archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/ 6taughtThe by Voice St. Paulof Delhi in his letter to the Colossians:

6 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 7 the shepherd’s voiCe

God” disposing Christians “to live in a Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCC lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint 1812). The theological virtues are:- Faith against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must which “is the theological virtue by which forgive. And above all these (virtues) putForgiveness on love, which bindsis a deatheverything together in we believe in God and believe all that he perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were has said and revealed to us, and that Holy The purpose of the season of Lentcalled is preciselyin the one to body. affirm And beus thankful.in our Letto theyour word false of Christ self dwell and in you its richly, as you the shepherd’s Church proposes for our belief, because identity in Christ – that we are God’s childrenteach andspoken admonish forth out one of another the heart in all wisdom,righteous and as indignation,you sing psalms and hymns and voiCe he is truth itself” (CCC 1814). Faith, which of God’s love before the foundation of thespiritual world that songs “we with should thankfulness be holy and in yourits hearts justified to God. And rationale whatever you do, in word is indeed a gift of God, is “dead” if it is blameless before him” i.e. to live a life in orloving deed, union do everything with God which in the is name our of thefor Lord revenge, Jesus, giving its thanks fondling to God the Father not allied to works (cf. James 2:26). Hope true self. Therefore Lent doesn’t mean onlythrough strict abstinence, him” (Col. fasting 3:12-17). and other “is the theological virtue by which we penances but it means “the abandonment of our false self, the relinquishment of the resentment. This desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal of our whole pervasive, self-referenced structurewould of being. like Our to crossend with and Jesus’a little storydeath that may is wellextremely fit into our Lord’s teaching on God” disposing Christians “to live in alife as our happiness, placing our trust in crossPut are on united. then, Hisas crossGod’s is chosenthe presence ones, of holy hisgoing loveand atthe beloved, the “extra core mile”ofcompassion, our (cf. false Mt. 5:41):kindness,painful; A man was everything asked to paint ina boat. He brought relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCCChrist’s promises and relying not on our self”lowliness, (ibid, meekness,p. 79). Lenten and practicespatience, offorbearing penance,i with oneunless anotherhim they paint areand, and expressions if brushes one has and a complaint beganyour to paintfalse the self boat screams a bright red, as the owner 1812). The theological virtues are:- Faithown strength, but on the help of the grace ofagainst the inner another, conversion forgiving of heart each throughother; as repentance, the Lordasked has him.may forgiven stillWhile reinforce painting,you, so the you he realizedalso must there was a hole in the hull and decided to which “is the theological virtue by whichof the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817). Charity “is ‘religiousforgive. And false above self’ allof thethese Scribes (virtues) and putPhariseesrepair on love, it. soWhen whichmuch finished detestedbinds everythingpainting by Jesus he togetherreceivedout in hisagainst money and it; left. this The is next day, the owner we believe in God and believe all that hethe theological virtue by which we love inperfect his encounter harmony. Andwith let them the peacebecause of Christtheyof the setrule boatmuch in your came store hearts, to bythe tothe painter which external andindeed presented youtruly were him dying with a withnice cheque, Christ. much higher than has said and revealed to us, and that HolyGod above all things for his own sake, and observancescalled in the andone “neglected body. And thebe thankful. weightier Let mattersthe the payment word of the of for law: Christ painting. justice dwell and The in mercy youpainter richly, wasThe as surprised: you instant you even Church proposes for our belief, becauseour neighbor as ourselves for the love of andteach faithfulness” and admonish (Mt. one 23:23). another St. Paul in all was wisdom, also-You’ve a highlyand already as educatedyou singpaid andpsalmsme forfanatic painting and hymns thetouch andboat! hethis said. door of he is truth itself” (CCC 1814). Faith, whichGod” (CCC 1822). This is what Christ has Pharisee,spiritual songsbut, after with his thankfulness encounter with in your the heartsRisen-But Lordthis to God. is and not And his for conversion whateverthe paint youjob. to do,It’s infor word having repaired the hole in the boat. is indeed a gift of God, is “dead” if it istaught us in the new commandment of theor deed, Way, dohe everything considered inall the such name practices of the ofLordAh! the But Jesus,law it aswas giving mere such thanks“rubbish” a small to service… Godin the resentmentFathercertainly it’s not withworth payingthe me such a high not allied to works (cf. James 2:26). Hopelove at the Last Supper. comparisonthrough him” to (Col.the “surpassing 3:12-17). worth of knowingamount forChrist something Jesus my so Lord”insignificant! and faintestMy dear friend, desire you do tonot openunderstand. it Let me tell “is the theological virtue by which we “be found in him, not having a righteousnessyou ofwhat my happened.own that comes When from I asked the you toby paint forgiveness, the boat, I forgot Christ to mention is about the desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal above catechesis on virtues is of a classical nature. I would like to also AFFAbiLiTy, law, butwould that whichlike to comes end with through a little faith story inhole. Christ” that When may (Phil. thewell 3: boat 7-11).fit dried,into our my Lord’skids took teaching thepresent boat on and to went enable on a fishing you trip. to They did not life as our happiness, placing our trust in mention the “Little Virtues” which Fr. Denis Pereira of Mumbai had goingThe the Church “extra in mile”Laodicea (cf. Mt.(Rev. 5:41): 3:14-22)know A man that is was thethere archetypalasked was toa hole.paint false I awas boat.self. not He at brought home at that time. When I returned and noticed open it fully. He comes Christ’s promises and relying not on our The spoken about during a clergy retreat 19 years ago. The Little Virtues COnDESCEnSiOn, Theyi proudlywith him boast paint that and they brushes are rich, and have beganthey prospered, tohad paint taken theand the boat need boat, a nothing, bright I was red,desperate but as the becauseowner I remembered that the boat had a hole. own strength, but on the help of the grace are as important to our Christian life of discipleship as the two main SiMPLiCiTy, they don’tasked realize him. Whilethat they painting, are “wretched, he realizedImagine pitiable, there my was poor, relief a hole blind and in joy and the when naked”hull I andsaw decidedthemin, returning andto as from you fishing. continue Then I examined the of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817). Charity “iscategories mentioned above. (Rev.repair 3:17). it. When In their finished blindness painting they havehe received becomeboat andhis lukewarm foundmoney thatand i.e. left.youneither hadThe hot repairednext nor day, the the tohole! owner rely You see,on now,him what to enableyou did? You saved the the theological virtue by which we love kinDLinESS, cold;of the so boat our came Lord toJesus the Christ, painter the and true presented andlife faithful of him my withwitness,children! a nice threatens I docheque, not have to much spit enough higher youmoney than to to forgive,pay your “sm youall” good deed. God above all things for his own sake, andWh AT ARe The LiTTLe ViRTUeS? the Laodiceanspayment for out painting. of his mouth The painter unless wasthey surprised: becomeSo, no matterzealous who,and repent. when or how. Just continue to help, sustain, wipe tears, listen our neighbor as ourselves for the love of� Sometimes it is a little indulgence, which easily pardons the faults of others, without SWEETnESS OF -You’veWhat already do they paid need me tofor do painting in order the attentivelyto beboat! saved? he andsaid. carefully repair all the “leaks”begin you to find, experience because you his never know when God” (CCC 1822). This is what Christ hasthe least desire of a little consideration for self. ASPECT, OF ACTiOn, -But thisThey is neednot for to theseek paint the true job. richesIt’s forGod of having God’shas a repairedpleasantKingdom thsurprise whiche hole the infor theLord us boat.to be helpfulcruciform and important love tonurturing someone. You may have taught us in the new commandment of� Sometimes it is a holy dissimulation, which blinds the eye to the patent faults of one’s aloneAh! can But offer it was us. such He invites a small them service… to buy repairedcertainly from him numerousit’s “gold not worthrefined “boat paying holes”by fire” me along so such the youa highway, in of that several love, people healing without realizing how love at the Last Supper. neighbours, and which is entirely different, as is apparent, from that petty vanity with OF MAnnERS, OF thatamount they for may something be rich; “white so insignificant! garments” tomanyMy cover dear livesthe friend, shame you’ve you of saved. theirdo not nakedness; understand. Letthe me tell hurt, removing the which some preen themselves on discovering the secret faults of others. “salve”you what to happened. anoint their When eyes soI asked that they you mayto paint see. Allthe these boat, are I forgot symbols to mentionof the about the � At times it is a tender compassion, which takes to itself the task of mitigating the WORDS, SuCh ARE, + Archbishop Anil Couto resentment, flushing above catechesis on virtues is of a classical nature. I would like to also AFFAbiLiTy, ‘newhole. self’When or the ‘true boat self’ dried, in Christ. my kids took the boat and went on a fishing trip. They did not mention the “Little Virtues”sorrows which of the Fr. unfortunate, Denis Pereira and of it Mumbai is a joy hadwhich spends itself increasing the happiness TO RESuMé, ThE know thatWhat there happened was a hole. at I Laodiceawas not at can homearchbishop happen at that of with time.delhi any When church I returned that and noticedaway the bitterness The spoken about during a clergyof the retreatfortunate. 19 years ago. The Little Virtues COnDESCEnSiOn, becomesthey had comfortablytaken the boat, settled, I was organized desperate and because inward-looking I remembered over that passage the boat of had untila hole. one day you realize are as important to our Christian� Sometimes life alsoof discipleship it is a certain as elasticitythe two main of spirit which recognizes spontaneously and PLEASAnT LiTTLE timeImagine through my relief very andmany joy structures. when I saw This them church returning begins from to gradually fishing. diminish Then I examinedthat the Christ’s love and categories mentioned above. without the effort the worth of an idea which anotherSi MPLhas hadiC beforeiTy, us, applauding it inboat its and evangelical found that zeal you and had to focusrepaired more the on hole! its own You maintenance. see, now, what The you original did? You saved the ViRTuES. forgiveness have become as a discovery, and in no way being envious of the authorkinDL of init. ESS, fervorlife of myof the children! Gospel Idisappears do not have individually enough money and collectively to pay your and “sm whatall” isgood left deed.is WhAT ARe The LiTTLe ViRTUeS? � Now it is a solicitude which anticipates another’s need, desirous to spare the pain or an ‘organization’,So, no matter who,however when grandiose, or how. whose Just continue growth has to practically help, sustain, come wipe to a tears,incarnate listen in you for the � Sometimes it is a little indulgence, whichhumiliation easily pardons of asking the faults for help. of others, without SWEETnESS OF standstill.attentively and carefully repair all the “leaks” you find, because you never knowone when who wronged you. the least desire of a little consideration for� Againself. it is a generosity of heart which does anything in its power to oblige, and which God has aMay pleasant the grace surprise of God for enable us to beus helpfulto transcend and important the ‘old self’ to someone. and put on You may have � Sometimes it is a holy dissimulation, whichwhen blinds it can the do eye but to little, the patent would faults wish toof one’sbe able to doASPECT more. , OF ACTiOn, therepaired ‘new self’numerous in Christ. “boat holes” along the way, of several people without realizing how neighbours, and which is entirely different,� Finally as is apparent, it is a sweet from quietthat petty affability vanity which with listensOF to MA the troublesnnERS of, OF another with many lives you’ve saved. which some preen themselves on discoveringno apparent the secret weariness, faults of others.instructing the ignorant without the bitterness of reproach or � At times it is a tender compassion, whichreprimand; takes to or itself it is thea certain task of politeness mitigating which the fulfillsWORDS all the requirements, SuCh ARE of urbanity, + Archbishop Anil Couto not only interiorly, as happens in the world which makes show of these graces, but sorrows of the unfortunate, and it is a joy which spends itself increasing the happiness TO RESuMé, ThE archbishop of delhi of the fortunate. with artless and Christian cordiality. � Sometimes also it is a certain elasticity of spiritAffability, which condescension, recognizes spontaneously simplicity, kindliness,and PLEASA sweetnessn ofT aspect, LiTTLE of action, of without the effort the worth of an idea whichmanners, another of words,has had such before are, us, to applaudingresumé, the it pleasant Little Virtues. However, the Little as a discovery, and in no way being enviousVirtues of the are author by no of means it. of a lesser degree than theVi virtuesRTu ESexpected. of a Christian as @archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/ � Now it is a solicitude which anticipates taughtanother’s by St.need, Paul desirous in his letter to spare to the the Colossians: pain or humiliation of asking for help. February 2021 7 � Again it is a generosity of heart which does6 The anything Voice of Delhi in its power to oblige, and which february 2017 7 when it can do but little, would wish to be able to do more. � Finally it is a sweet quiet affability which listens to the troubles of another with no apparent weariness, instructing the ignorant without the bitterness of reproach or reprimand; or it is a certain politeness which fulfills all the requirements of urbanity not only interiorly, as happens in the world which makes show of these graces, but with artless and Christian cordiality. Affability, condescension, simplicity, kindliness, sweetness of aspect, of action, of manners, of words, such are, to resumé, the pleasant Little Virtues. However, the Little Virtues are by no means of a lesser degree than the virtues expected of a Christian as @archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/ taught by St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians:

6 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 7 musings of the month

cOlVille De sOuza

Preparing for Lent

his is the month in Twhich our Lenten season begins. This year we observe Lent from 17 February. The annual season of Lent, a period of 40 days (excluding Sundays) isoften linked to the story in when Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights, and for us is a 40-day period to prepare ourselves to fully celebrate Easter-when we celebrate the Resurrection. ◼◼ Fast from pressures and be prayerful ◼◼ Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a time of reflection and preparation that ends on MaundyThursday ◼◼ Fast from grudges and be reconciled in the Holy Week. Lent is a time of prayer and renewal and ◼◼ Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others. an opportunity for us to refocus our relationship with God ◼◼ Fast from words and be silent so you can listen and is a great time for reflection and prayer for us to prepare The third element is Almsgiving,which points to giving ourselves for the coming of Easter. It is, thus, a privileged freely, for in almsgiving one gives something to someone time - a time of repentance where we should humbly from whom one does not expect to receive anything in recognize our weaknesses and sinfulness and a time of belief return... Almsgiving helps us to experience giving freely where weshould reflect on our flaws, and also of hope in and happily. It is an expression of our gratitude for all that God’s enduring promises of love and forgiveness. God has given Our Holy Father preached that Lent is a time to give up We have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 useless words, gossip, rumors, tittle-tattle and speak to pandemic. The pandemic has completely disrupted usual God on a first-name basis. In one of his Homilies, Our Holy church practices, going to mass and seeing the community Father said Lent is a spiritual journeyof prayer, fasting come together to celebrate. While stay-at-home orders are and almsgiving. The first element is prayer. Prayer is the starting to be relaxed, there are still many restrictions on strength of every person who believes. Mass participation, and access to other church activities. The second element is Fasting. While during Lent we As we go through Lent, we should use this time to become traditionally do give up some earthly pleasure or practice, better people. In this year’s New Year's Day message, Pope like eating sweets,etc., we could view fasting in Lent Francis said that the coronavirus pandemic has taught the differently. Pope Francis advises us to: world "how much it is necessary to take an interest in ◼◼ Fast from hurting words and say kind words. others' problems and to share their concerns," which in turn leads to peace. ◼◼ Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude. ◼◼ Fast from anger and be filled with patience In short, Lent is a time of spiritual renewal and reflection. ◼◼ Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope It’s a time to take stock of our faith and our lives, and to take a deeper look at things we might otherwise overlook ◼◼ Fast from worries and have trust in God or take for granted. ◼◼ Fast from complaints

8 The Voice of Delhi Poulose Mangai, SJ

Lent: Authentic Fasting

n the Catholic calendar and for our Catholic life, Lent is sackcloth, putting a very special period. It is a time of grace in which we ashes on their heads Ideepen our relationship with God and intimacy with or not washing and Jesus. It is like a spring time in which God’s love brings forth combing their hair a variety of flowers and fruits in our spiritual life. It is a time (Mt :1-18). Devotion to say goodbye to our habitual sins and to open our hearts is not for others to and our lives more fully to God’s purifying and life-giving see but is directed love. towards God alone. Lent invites us to take a closer look at our Christian living, We know from that is, our life before God and in the Church. It calls us to experience that pay attention to things that are more important for our life. fasting with proper In Lent we seek to bring our lives into greater conformity attitudes and right motives can purify our minds. Fasting with the life of Jesus, knowing that the meaning of our frees us from our obsession with unimportant things in human and Christian life lies in our fidelity to Jesus and his life—desire for honour and power, habit of accumulating message of love of God and neighbour. wealth and possessions, over consumption, wasteful Lent is also a preparation for the great feast of Easter. spending, etc. It liberates us from many vices: pride, During this time of preparation, Christians contemplate arrogance, gluttony, anger, envy, greed, etc. Thus liberated, Jesus in his passion and death on the cross. We look at Jesus it becomes easier for us to seek and find God and to grow in giving himself up on the cross for our salvation and for the our fidelity to Christ. salvation of the world. Fasting from food and abstaining from certain delicious Traditionally, in Lent, the path of holiness is traversed food items are good practices. But if they are practised with through the interrelated triple practices of prayer, fasting, wrong motives, they are not only useless but also harmful. and almsgiving. These form the three pillars of Lent and are As we fast from food, we must also fast from wrong actions powerful means to pull us out of our self-centredness and and wrong attitudes and hold fast to good actions and good to direct us towards God and neighbors through love. This attitudes. In Lent 2017, Pope Francis gave us a list of things is Christian holiness. In this reflection we shall look at one of we need to fast from and things we must hold on to. Here is the three pillars, namely, fasting. the Pope’s list. Authentic Fasting Fast from hurting words and say kind words. Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude. Fasting means voluntarily abstaining from food for a period Fast from anger and be filled with patience. of time as a sign of religious devotion. The practice of Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope. fasting is recommended in most religions. Matthew tells us Fast from worries and trust in God. that Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights (Mt 4:2) before Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity. beginning his public ministry. Gandhiji made fasting a tool Fast from pressures and be prayerful. for self-purification. Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy. Jesus has given us some instruction on prayer, fasting and Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others. almsgiving in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 6: 1-18). In the Fast from grudges and be reconciled. time of Jesus, pious Jews observed all the three practices as Fast from words and be silent so you can listen. “acts of piety” (see Mt 6:1). During fasts, Jews often wore These are the examples that Pope Francis has given. We may sackcloth, placed ashes on the head and abstained from add other items to the list or make our own list. washing the body. The OT prescribed public fast only on the Day of Atonement (Lev 1:29, 31). Later some other days were We often find that we live self-centred lives. We are slaves added. But pious Jews observed voluntary fasts in addition to the desires of our bodies and seek pleasures and comforts to the official fasts, as signs of repentance, mourning or for ourselves. We don’t bother much about the needs and devotion to God. But often these voluntary fasts became acts comforts of others. In fasting, we deny ourselves and rein to impress upon others, not acts of true devotion to God. in our inordinate desires. We find time for God and prayer and we willingly and generously make sacrifices of our time, Jesus asks for genuine interiority and cautions the disciples money and other resources to serve our brothers and sisters against reducing these pious acts to mere acts of show. He in need. This is true fasting and a pathway to holiness. asks them not to call attention to themselves by wearing

February 2021 9 Theology & Christian Life - 15

Sch. Wesley D’Costa SJ Modern Day Slavery of Human Trafficking Reflection for International Day against Human Trafficking

hen we think of slavery, we might consider it to strongly condemns be a thing of the past, something that is abolished acts against the Wand no longer existing in society. However, the dignity of human alarming truth is that slavery is rampant in most countries persons as offences around the world. Trafficking in human persons is one form that “poison human of slavery in modern times. society, debase their perpetrators and In an online seminar held by the Catholic Bishops Conference constitute a supreme of Argentina, Pope Francis described modern day slavery as dishonour to the “a scourge that wounds the dignity of our weakest brothers creator” (Gaudium and sisters.” The UN General Assembly has designated July 30 et Spes, 27). as the World Day against Trafficking in order to coordinate and organise efforts against human trafficking. In the Church, In his encyclical February 8 is observed as the International Day of Prayer and Laudato Si, Pope Awareness against Human Trafficking. February 8 is the feast Francis attributes day of St. Josephine Bakhita (1869-1947), who was kidnapped the problem as a child and sold into slavery in Sudan and Italy. Once freed, to a ‘culture of she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life to sharing relativism’, which her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the drives an individual poor and suffering. to take advantage of another, treating A UN Protocol defines trafficking in human persons as them as objects. “This same kind of thinking leads to “recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt sexual exploitation of children and abandonement of of persons” by means of “threat or use of force, coercion, the elderly who no longer serve our interests” (Laudato abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power or vulnerability, Si, 122). Elsewhere, the Pope Francis has indicated other or giving payments or benefits to a person in control of the possible causes for this social evil: not recognising victim” for the Purpose of “exploitation, which includes the equal dignity of all, lack of respect for the right to exploiting the prostitution of others, sexual exploitation, freedom of others, poverty, underdevelopment, culture forced labour, slavery or similar practices and the removal of exclusion, lack of education, unemployment, armed of organs.” Human trafficking is widely prevalent in India. conflicts, terrorism, etc. “These occur when money, and We are not talking about isolated incidents but about rackets not the human person, is at the centre of an economic run on a large-scale. These rackets involve the mafia and the system.” underworld, politicians and huge amounts of money. It is terrible that even today, in spite of all the progress that The Print quotes a 2014 Report which claims that every year has been made, we have people who are sold and purchased approximately 16 million women are victims of sex trafficking like commodities against their will. It is important that in India and that 40 per cent of them are adolescents and we create awareness about this grave evil and also work children. All this in spite of stringent legislative provisions towards weeding it out from society. Human trafficking like the Immoral Traffic Prevention Act and the Protection of is a heinous crime against humanity as it violates the Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. inherent dignity of every individual. It is also a grave sin The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2414) states that against the Creator who creates every human being in his “the seventh commandment forbids acts or enterprises that for image. We must work together to eliminate this modern any reason – selfish or ideological, commercial, or totalitarian day slavery. It is equally important that we work towards – lead to the enslavement of human beings, to their being the rescue and rehabilitation of all children, women and bought, sold and exchanged like merchandise in disregard men, who have been victims of human trafficking. In his for their personal dignity.” Basing itself on the Scripture, latest encyclical Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis inviting the the church affirms that every human person is created in the world leaders to a ‘better kind of politics’ and urges them image and likeness of God and so has an inherent dignity. Any to act strongly against the modern day slavery of human act that violates the dignity of an individual is a sin. Vatican II trafficking.

10 The Voice of Delhi speCiaL Saint of the Month Servant of God Sr. Mary Bernadette Prasad Kispotta The Founder of the Congregation of the Daughters of St. Anne-Ranchi and the First Tribal Servant of God! Fr. Arokiya Raj J

ernadette was born on June 2, 1878, in an Adivasi to walk an extra mile Lutheran family at Sargaon, Ranchi, and baptized as of eight years for BKhrist Anandit Ruth Kispotta by a Lutheran pastor Christ. Unfortunately, on June 16, 1878. The arrival of Father Constant Lievens, a the year 1895-1896 Jesuit missionary from Belgium in Ranchi on March 19, 1885, witnessed a terrible changed the entire socio-political and religious landscape famine and cholera of Chotanagpur. People flocked to Father Lievens with epidemics in the their problems of land affected by the zamindari system, country. People died which was introduced by Cornwallis in 1793 through the of cholera and hunger Permanent Settlement Act, and many, including Kispotta’s every day. Bernadette family, expressed their desire to become Catholics. She was and her three baptized in the Catholic Church and received the first Holy companions got a Communion on July 31, 1890. She was given a new name – chance to serve the victims of the epidemic by distributing Mary Bernadette Kispotta. medicines, rice, dal, clothes and mats, comforted and taught the basics of religion with priests and nuns. Bernadette, while studying in the Loreto Convent, saw the hard work of the Loreto Sisters with an ardent love for Jesus Finally, Church authorities realized God’s will for her and to gather as many souls as possible, embracing the design her companions, “If the girls from other countries can live of God for the salvation of humanity. She was moved by the a consecrated life for the glory of God and the salvation of Loreto nuns’ work, sacrifice and love for people. Bernadette souls through the acts of charity, then why can this not discreetly reflected that her vocation to religious life is happen in our own country? Knowing the strong resolve God’s initiative. Therefore, despite all sorts of opposition of these girls to remain virgins, we now understand what and disturbance, from family, society, culture and tradition, they want. It is certainly God’s will. He wants the girls she was determined to dedicate her life for Christ’s sake. from this underdeveloped country should also commit On this account, Church authorities were afraid of losing themselves totally in service and work for the salvation of the faith of the people because of the refusal of the girl for souls.” marriage. Bernadette and her three initial companions— Bernadette endured all injustice, shame, and poverty at the Cecilia, Veronica and Mary were sent out of the school highpoint of exercising a choice of life in abandonment. because of their refusal of marriage. She even refused to God refined her not as silver but in the furnace of suffering. adorn herself with jewels for Christ’s sake. She suffered the Bernadette was 19 when she and three companions — loss of all things, and regarded them as rubbish, that she Cecilia, Veronica and Mary, founded the Daughters of may gain Christ (Phil 3:8). She wanted to become the Bride St. Anne, Ranchi, on July 26, 1897. Sr. Mary Bernadette of Christ not of a man. Her father wanted to kill Bernadette was hard-working and prayed incessantly for the due to the refusal of marriage. Her father even demanded all Congregation. She died of tuberculosis after a prolonged the clothes and things given to her. Bernadette desired to be suffering on April 16, 1961. She was declared “Servant of emptied for Christ. She returned everything with a beautiful God” on August 7, 2016. Throughout her life as a nun, letter of gratitude to her parents. She suffered rejection and she worked extensively for education and travelled across contempt for Jesus. She renounced the temporal goods and forested hinterland without roads to reach and teach considered everything as loss, not gain. “My heart and soul villagers. Cardinal Telesphore Toppo in a thanksgiving will become worldly and I will be lost forever,” she said. She Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral in Ranchi said: “Mother Mary became poor both in reality and in spirit. Bernadette’s bravery came from her unshakable faith in The then Jesuit Archbishop Paul Goethals of Ranchi seeing Jesus,” he said. She and the “Sisters of the congregation the ardent desire of Bernadette and her companion said, defied all odds to spread faith and education in the region. “They must wait for eight years. If they keep themselves They are heroines of the Catholic church”. upright, holy and worthy of the great spiritual life then I will Servant of God Sr. Mary Bernadette Kispotta, Pray for us! think about it.” It was the great consolation for Bernadette

February 2021 11 speCiaL rePOrT

both the federal and the state governments had promised to help rebuild the church, no aid came. The Archdiocese of Delhi FEBRUARY 2021 undertook the reconstruction two years ago. The church still waits for “a parish clear reason” for the fire, the church official added. Police and others dismissed it the result of electricity short circuit, while others suspected foul play. Present on the occasion Oscar roundup ASHOK PLACE Fernandes, Member of Parliament. Sacred Heart Cathedral This is “a miracle church and Parish Priest: Fr. Lawrence P. R it remains a powerful symbol Asst. Parish Priest: Fr. John Britto Xavier of hope,” Fernandes later told Asst. Parish Priest: Fr. Shinil Jacob AlAknAndA Matters India. Asst. Parish Priest: Fr Aroykia Raj Delhi’s arson-hit Ranjit John, architect of the Holy Spirit Church church, said he was happy to work Parish Priest: Fr. Jesuraj on the project. “I welcome the Lord. Thanksgiving and New Year service church rededicated Come Holy Spirit and sanctify this Published on: 6:12 pm, January 15, 2017 by: mattersindia.com place of worship,” he prayed while at theChristmas Cathedral Tree Celebration speaking to Matters India. The R. Nihal Pedric church was opened on December he parishioners of Holy Father John Maria Vianney who in he Sacred Heart Cathedral Parishioners entered in to the new year 2021 with renewed 30, 2001, by then Archbishop Spirit Church, Alaknanda in his inspiring sermon called for all lives and spirit by participating in the thanksgiving service held on 31st December, 2020 sTaNley KOzhichira aND arul e laNgO Vincent Concessao of Delhi. It a yuletide cheer on 8th Jan present to have a daily encounter at 7.00T pm. The thanksgiving service was conducted by the CJM Sisters thanking God for served as worship place for both T 2017 (which coincided with Feast of with Child Jesus and celebrate the all the blessings which the Lord has poured on us during the year 2020. The New Year Mass was ew Delhi: Archbishop reminds our own dedication to the Latin and Syro-Malabar the Epiphany) as they geared up to Christmas Spirit throughout the offered by Most. Rev. Anil J. T. Couto, the Archbishop of Delhi and many Parish Campus fathers Anil J T Couto of Delhi on Jesus. We need to be witnesses Catholics living in and around celebrate the ‘Christmas Tree’, an year, in thought, word and action. were the concelebrants. It was also a day of Solemnity of the Mary the Mother of God. Due to January 15 urged Christians of Christ at anytime and Dilshad Garden, one of the largest annual community fiesta, at Don At the cultural event, the SCC units N restrictions imposed on number of gatherings, only limited faithful were allowed to take part in India to muster courage to face anywhere. Jesus’s heart thirsts residential areas in Delhi. Bosco School, Alaknanda. carols competition emceed Franklin in the Eucharistic Celebrations through online registration. However, the entire service was persecution. for the world’s salvation,” Parish priest Father Anthony The celebration of the Holy Mass and Nikita. Adya Binson, a Class live streamed via social media due to which many of the Parishioners and others took part in “We need the courage to said Archbishop Couto at the Francis said that the burning by Parish Priest Fr. Jesuraj, Assistant I student opened the event with the celebrations virtually. The introductory message of Archbishop Anil is as follows. “During face persecution. It can come rededication Mass that launched of the church was “a blessing Parish Priest Fr. Mukesh, Fr. Jerry, a message on the true spirit of the Holy Hour we have thanked God for the year just passing by good and bad, and we have recalled anytime,” the prelate said while the annual parish feast. in disguise” and as the gutted SDB the Administrator Don Bosco Chirstmas. The Catechism students the greatest sufferings of this year 2020, i.e., the corona virus which has taken millions of lives rededicating a church in an Retired Archbishop Vincent M Church enabled his flock to School, Fr. Diamond, SDB and Fr. of the parish performed the prayer throughout the world including in our own country so many lives have been lost. At the same time, eastern extreme of the national Concessao and around 50 priests rebuild with modernity and Illango, SJ. The main celebrant was dance which won the first prize at the the Lord has given us many lessons during this year. We have called to trust in him more. The Lord capital that was gutted in a concelebrated the Mass attended expansion. After the blessing of has made us aware of our frigidity before him. We are nothing and nobody can be arrogant before mysterious fire more than two by hundreds of people from the tabernacle, Archbishop Couto God. In the twinkle of an eye, all the humanity can be wiped out.Oh man where is your strength? years ago. St. Sebastian’s Church various walks of life. handed its key to Father Francis. and where is your power? We have learnt that before God and I hope everyone is learnt. But we have in Dilshad Garden was among Archbishop Couto The Catholic church sits also learnt how to care for one another. We have reached out to people in suffering. And I hope that six church institutions in Delhi acknowledged that help to between a Hindu temple and an targeted between December rebuild the church came from Orthodox Christian church. 2014 and January 2015. The various sources such as Bombay attacks ended suddenly with the Archdiocese, Propagation of Faith, announcement of elections to Nunciature and local sources. the Delhi legislative assembly in The archbishop said the February 2015. Catholic Church is not against The attack on the Dilshad anyone, but tries to reach out to Garden church on December 1, all irrespective of their religions 2014, led to nationwide protests and other differences. and drew international attention. An archdiocesan official told “Dedication of the church Matters India that although 12 The Voice of Delhi 14 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 15 lessons have also been learnt by all our political leaders who govern the lives of people, rule the lives of people. How we have to speCiaL rePOrT organise ourselves economically which Pope Francis all the time is trying to bring to the awareness of people. Especially in his latest encyclical “Fratelli Tutti”all of us are brothers and sisters. So, we have many things to give thanks to God. And when our hearts are full of thanksgiving as we have heard in the reflected upon in the Holy Hour, there will be peace which comes from the Lord. And that has been the message of Christmas that he came with peace to the whole world, peace to people of good will, and the good news both the federal and the state of great joy not just happiness but joy, divine joy, which is God’s greatest gift to us in Jesus Christ our Lord. So, let us thank God for governments had promised to everything that the Lord has given to us during this year. And may the coming year 2021 as we have prayed, may be a year which help rebuild the church, no aid sees us growing, maturing in faith, in hope, in love, in being disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ, taking one more step forward towards came. The Archdiocese of Delhi building up a new society, a new world, for which he came in to this world and for which he sacrificed himself on the cross and rose undertook the reconstruction two again on the third day victorious over sin and death. And that is our mission, as Christians, as disciples of Christ to proclaim this st years ago. good news everywhere. Today we celebrate very specially 1 of January, we celebrate the Motherhood of our Blessed Mother. She is The church still waits for “a parish the one who teaches us how to say yes to God’s will all the time. And she assures us, that she will intercede for us at every moment clear reason” for the fire, the of our lives and specially at the moment of our death and that is what we pray. Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. church official added. Police and That is our Blessed Mother for us, and St. Joseph both examples of total and complete trust in God. Let us keep them before us and others dismissed it the result of even though we are here today but we know all of us could not be, Corona Virus still there. We are still only a few people who can electricity short circuit, while come according to restrictions imposed by the Govt. We are still with our masks and social distancing and so on. Let us offer all others suspected foul play. these to God and pray that coming year 2021 may lift up all these and that we may once again be able to participate fully that as we Present on the occasion Oscar roundup have always been doing and with great enthusiasm in the Holy Eucharist. Let us ask the Lord to pardon us our failures our sins our Fernandes, Member of Parliament. deviations all the time we have closed our hearts to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit for all that and so much more we ask for Gods This is “a miracle church and mercy and Mercy flows in abundance from the Lord and so we prepare ourselves to celebrate this sacred mystery this evening.” it remains a powerful symbol After the service everyone was served with cake and coffee. of hope,” Fernandes later told AlAknAndA Matters India. Delhi’s arson-hit Ranjit John, architect of the Holy Spirit Church church, said he was happy to work Parish Priest: Fr. Jesuraj on the project. “I welcome the Lord. church rededicated Come Holy Spirit and sanctify this Published on: 6:12 pm, January 15, 2017 by: mattersindia.com place of worship,” he prayed while Christmas Tree Celebration speaking to Matters India. The church was opened on December he parishioners of Holy Father John Maria Vianney who in 30, 2001, by then Archbishop Spirit Church, Alaknanda in his inspiring sermon called for all sTaNley KOzhichira aND arul e laNgO Vincent Concessao of Delhi. It Ta yuletide cheer on 8th Jan present to have a daily encounter served as worship place for both 2017 (which coincided with Feast of with Child Jesus and celebrate the ew Delhi: Archbishop reminds our own dedication to the Latin and Syro-Malabar the Epiphany) as they geared up to Christmas Spirit throughout the Outreach activities of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul Anil J T Couto of Delhi on Jesus. We need to be witnesses Catholics living in and around celebrate the ‘Christmas Tree’, an year, in thought, word and action. R. Nihal Pedric January 15 urged Christians of Christ at anytime and Dilshad Garden, one of the largest annual community fiesta, at Don At the cultural event, the SCC units N very year during the peak winter Session, the Sacred in India to muster courage to face anywhere. Jesus’s heart thirsts residential areas in Delhi. Bosco School, Alaknanda. carols competition emceed Franklin persecution. for the world’s salvation,” Parish priest Father Anthony The celebration of the Holy Mass and Nikita. Adya Binson, a Class EHeart Cathedral Conference members of the Society “We need the courage to said Archbishop Couto at the Francis said that the burning by Parish Priest Fr. Jesuraj, Assistant I student opened the event with of St. Vincent De Paul have been distributing warm face persecution. It can come rededication Mass that launched of the church was “a blessing Parish Priest Fr. Mukesh, Fr. Jerry, a message on the true spirit of clothes and blankets to the needy poor people especially anytime,” the prelate said while the annual parish feast. in disguise” and as the gutted SDB the Administrator Don Bosco Chirstmas. The Catechism students the street dwellers in and around Central Delhi. This rededicating a church in an Retired Archbishop Vincent M Church enabled his flock to School, Fr. Diamond, SDB and Fr. of the parish performed the prayer year the Conference decided to visit a jhuggi cluster to eastern extreme of the national Concessao and around 50 priests rebuild with modernity and Illango, SJ. The main celebrant was dance which won the first prize at the distribute sleeping bags and also to serve a hot meal capital that was gutted in a concelebrated the Mass attended expansion. After the blessing of to them. This has been done in collaboration with mysterious fire more than two by hundreds of people from the tabernacle, Archbishop Couto Chetanalaya the most serving nonprofit organization in years ago. St. Sebastian’s Church various walks of life. handed its key to Father Francis. Delhi and Haryana under the Archdiocese of Delhi. This in Dilshad Garden was among Archbishop Couto The Catholic church sits programme was titled “Spread the Warmth” for sharing th six church institutions in Delhi acknowledged that help to between a Hindu temple and an a hot meal and a blanket with the elderly people. On 9 targeted between December rebuild the church came from Orthodox Christian church. January, 2021, members of the SSVP along with Fr. John 2014 and January 2015. The various sources such as Bombay Britto, Director of Chetanalaya visited Jahangirpuri, attacks ended suddenly with the Archdiocese, Propagation of Faith, G Juggi cluster and distributed 50 sleeping bags to the announcement of elections to Nunciature and local sources. elderly persons. The sleeping bags have been donated by the Delhi legislative assembly in The archbishop said the PRATYEK, NGO who is running a blanket drive for people living on streets and for those in need so that they feel safe February 2015. Catholic Church is not against in the winter. Chetanalaya has made arrangements to serve lunch for the elderly people. Thereafter, the members also The attack on the Dilshad anyone, but tries to reach out to visited Chetanalaya Environment Education Centre at Bhalaswain order to get first-hand information about the Centre, Garden church on December 1, all irrespective of their religions where they promote permaculture, eco-brick making, pot-making (paper-cement mix), kitchen-waste compost, seed 2014, led to nationwide protests and other differences. bank, fish-harvest and so on. We are thankful to PRATYEK and Chetanalaya as without their support this visit would and drew international attention. An archdiocesan official told not have been possible. “Dedication of the church Matters India that although February 2021 13 14 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 15 parish roundup fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017 Felicitation of Msgr. Susai Sebastian, VG on his birthday Rd. Nefenceihal Pedric colony nArelA PrAsAd nAgAr rohini PArish St. Luke’s Church St. John Mary Vianney Church St. Michael Church The Church of Resurrection sgr Susai Sebastian, Vicar Parish Priest: Fr.James Peter Raj Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Swami Parish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. Pinto Parish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha General, Archdiocese of Delhi Asst. Parish Priests: Fr.Balaraju Anthony Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L has celebrated his birthday on Mst 21 January, 2021 On that day, the main Christmas Feastcelebrant ofof the epiphany6.00 pm Holy Eucharist and christmas day Altar Servers Day at was Msgr Susai Sebastian. Fr.Arokiya ◗ Ms. Anjali Thomas Prasad nagar Day christmaswas the concelebrant. tree Msgr celebration Susi was felicitated by the Parish Community ◗ C.M. Thomas ◗ Rosmin S Maria Celebrations during the 6.00 pm Mass. Mrs Saley n Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The Sunny hepresented St. Luke’s plantChurch to Msgr Susaiby different associations of parish. Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. at Rohini Sebastiancelebrated on thebehalf feast of the ParishFathers, Brothers and Catechism OJohn Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass TCommunity.Epiphany A brief and Christmasprofile of treeMsgr Susaiteachers also conducted a few presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as Parish onSebastian 8th January, was 2017.read Bi-lingualby Mr Nihal Holy Pedric. games, much to the surprise of the well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, ◗ Vanessa Lobo MassAfter concelebratedthe mass all assembledby Fr. Mathew outside theparishioners. For the Christmas tree the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them Koyical.Church Fr.and James sang Peter Happy Raj Birthday.(Parish Msgrcelebrations, the catechism students by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to Priest),Susai Sebastian Fr. Vijay Kulluwas born &, Fr. on Balaraju 21st January, were 1945 presented as the withsixth beautiful and last gifts child of Mr Susai Muthu and Mrs Mariammal speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word Swamiin Burma (Assistant presently Parish called Priests) Myanmar. Hebut was also the the only toddlers male were child given of his parents. He did his primary education in and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming andMyanmar. Fr. Amit He (Nepal had beenProvince) attracted also to thesmall Priesthood presents. at Also, the theage lucky of ten. draw After completing his school education, he priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the concelebratedjoined St Joseph’s the holy Minor mass. Seminary After Rangon,for Christmas at present Hamper it is calledwas drawn Yangon. In May 1965t. John his Maryfamily Vianney left Myanmar church parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers theand Mass, settled the in fair Ramnad was declared District open of Tamiland Nadu.the prizes The were then conferred Archbishop to two Robert, Internunciocelebrated to theIndia birth and of Burma Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church byknew the Fr.Fr. SusaiJames personally Peter Raj, There who recommendedlucky winners, him to we’reArchbishop keeping Joseph their FernandesS ofJesus Delhi Christ, who atour that Saviour time onwas announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He werelooking food for and Priests games and stalls seminarians. organized Innames 1965 a Brosecret Susai for securitySebastian purpose. was sent to St.24th Theresa’s December, Minor 2016. SeminaryThe Holy in thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo Ajmer. From there he went to St Charles’ Seminary in Nagpur for his philosophyEucharist course was and celebrated simultaneously by Rev. he and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers. did his BA degree from Nagpur University. In 1971 he completed his PhilosophyFr. studies. Pradeep. In His 1972, homily he was centred, sent to St. Peter Seminary, Bangalore by the then Archbishop of Delhi Angelo Fernandezin thefor messageTheology of Studies. love and Oncare 10th August, 1975, he was ordained by Archbishop Angelo in St. Thomas Church R.K Puramtowards and each his other. first Reminding appointment Thanksgiving Get-together at was to assist Fr. Santos at this Cathedral as Assistant Parish Priest. In 1979 he wasthe parishioners appointed as that Chaplain Christmas of the St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar Tamil Ministry. In 1981 he completed his MA degree in Sociology from JNU, Delhi.is not In just 1986, about he wasdecorations appointed as he Church of Resurrection the first Chairman of the Delhi Diocesan Service Team of the Charismatic movement.and exchange Since then of gifts he gotbut involvedit is a n Saturday, January 14, 2017, games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a celebrated its parish himself in Charismatic movement and he was the Spiritual Director of Delhi Charismatictime for usRenewal to prepare Service our hearts(DCRS). OSt. Michael’s Church, Prasad number of prizes were announced TChristmas Day on Sunday From 1991-1996 he served in the Mission Station in Rohtak and during those daysto welcome he used the to spendBaby Jesus nights into with Nagar held thanksgiving get- and presented by Mr Rajan George, January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, villagers and he worked for the empowerment of women, children and dalits. Fromour lives there anew he eachmoved year. to Theour Lady together function at 7.00 p.m. Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated of Good Health Shrine at Okhla.From 1999 to 2006 he served as the Parish Priestcelebrant of this through Cathedral. his melodiousDuring this at the Church Complex for the Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to mass. The choir along with the period he changed the landscape of the surroundings of the church completely.singing The beautiful inspired gardenall of us whichto we members of Parish Council, Catholic one and all for their whole-hearted congregation added to the bliss by see today was the brain child of Msgr Susai Sebastian. In 2006 he was appointedcelebrate as Director Christmas of Chetanalaya with joy and and Association, Vincent De Paul, collaboration and support extended singing beautiful hymns and carols during his tenure he introduced Children’s Parliament in the Slum Colonies. Fromreconciliation Chetanalaya with onehe wasanother. moved Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of throughout the year 2016 in the to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. to Gurgaon and served as The ecstatic parishioners made Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. church activities. Encouraging the The mass concluded with prize Parish Priest in Kanhei Parish merry and danced on the beats of Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated parishioners to continue to raise the distribution of all the activities and in September 2013, he was mandar in celebration. the get-together. Amid fun and power of community through 2017. conducted, the children were appointed as Vicar General of New Year 2017 and the Feast awarded prizes and certificates. Delhi Archdiocese. He is also of Our Lady at the thanksgiving Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative the Spiritual Adviser of the adoration on 31st December, 2016. ‘sector-wise’game which served a Central Council of the Society of The Christmas tree on 8th January, double benefit; firstly to improve St. Vincent De Paul at present. 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev the bonding between people living RecognizingSt. Luke’s his service to the Youth Group Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr in the same or nearby sectors and Delhi Archdiocese, on 16th of Anupa, where every parishioner secondly to elect a member who October,outh 2016, Choir participatedhe has been in two most coveted contests at the regardless of their age participated would represent them at the New givenY thediocese, title ‘Cathedralof the Chaplin Bells’ ofand ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing and won exciting goodies. The Parish Council to be formed. Holycompetition). Father Monsignor. The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” day, a celebration of one family in Games conducted for the kids and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful by the parish youth and food stalls George. beginning of the New Year 2017. put up by &for the parishioners 14 The Voice of Delhi God Bless us all! added excitement to the event.

18 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 19 ALAKNANDA Holy Spirit Church Parish Priest: Fr. Jesu Raj Asst. Parish Priest: Fr. Mukesh Damor Christmas at Holy Spirit Church, Alaknanda Ms. Sonia Minj

hristmas is that time of the thanks to Mr. Pius D’Souza who Kudos to our children for year which we all wait for worked really hard and illuminated their exuberant performance. Ceagerly.While Christmas 2020 the Church, Mr. Sujith, Joseph, Jibon All the videos were consolidated and is different from all the previous years Mondal & Co. for the illustrious crib, streamed online on YouTube channel because of the global pandemic yet the Mrs. Catherine Jojo and youth for “Holy Spirit Church”. Parish Council, Catechism Teachers, decoration, notice board by Mrs. Celebrated Parish Priest’s Birthday: SCC Coordinators of our parish were Shirly, Mr. K.A. Augustine & family for able to find new and innovative ways the floral decorations. to celebrate this special time of the Carols: We had online Carol singing year enthusiastically. competition among SCC groups. All Eucharistic Celebration: In order to the groups presented their singing accommodate maximum participation merrily and innovatively which was and keeping in mind social distancing uploaded on the YouTube channel three Holy masses were scheduled for “Holy Spirit Church”of our parish. the evening of 24th December, 2020 and three masses on 25th December, 2020 in the morning. Hindi and English both Choir group sang hymns melodiously and devotionally. It makes us more joyful that our Parish The solemn Christmas services were Priest Rev. Fr.Jesuraj was also born on th streamed online through YouTube as 25 December. We are indeed lucky well. to have such a good shepherd who leads, inspires, encourages us all. The Special thanks to the volunteers Catholic Association of our parish who helped on 24th and 25th arranged for a surprise cake cutting December in order to follow the ceremony. government guidelines with respect Catechism Children:We had a virtual to the pandemic and also the police All the groups collaborated very well Christmas competition program this administration of C.R. Park who and made the celebrations joyful, year for our Catechism children. Such protected and supported us to follow meaningful and memorable. a thoughtful suggestion in order to the law and order. Year End mass by Jesus Youth engage and showcase the talents Christmas Crib and Decorations: of our children was initiated by our We had “Thanks Giving Mass” on st Various groups took charge of catechism coordinator and fully Dec 31 2020 which began at 06:00 decorations. We had a huge Crib supported and encouraged by our pm followed by Holy Hour at 07:00 placed in the church campus facing the parish priest. p.m. and Holy Mass at 07:30 pm. The main road so that Holy hour and mass were beautifully We had Fancy dress competition on everyone could have animated by Jesus Youth. Christmas Theme for classes upto a glimpse of nativity three. New Year Mass - Friday, January 01 of Jesus from the 2021- Feast of Mary – Mother of God For classes 4-12 we had solo singing road side. The Crib Christ: was very creative competition/solo dance competition/A We had two masses in the morning and and received talk on “What Christmas means to one mass in the evening, Adoration & appreciation and me”(video recordings). Rosary followed by Holy mass. applause from All the catechism teachers, children everyone. Special and parents took part enthusiastically.

February 2021 15 parish roundup fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017

defenceGurgaon colony nArelA PrAsAd nAgAr rohini PArish St. Michael's Church St.Parish Luke’s Priest: FChurchr. Irudaya Kumar St. John Mary Vianney Church St. Michael Church The Church of Resurrection ParishAsst. Parish Priest: Priest: Fr.James Fr. Maria Anthony Peter Raj Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Swami Parish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. Pinto Parish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha Asst. Parish Priests: Fr.Balaraju Anthony Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L FeastA Day of to epiphany Remember and christmas day Altar Servers Day at Christmas ◗ Ms. Anjali Thomas Prasad nagar Day christmasDay to Remember tree - The celebrationYouth of St. Michael's Church visited the Morning Star Church, Nazafgarh on 17th January, 2021 which is ◗ C.M. Thomas ◗ Rosmin S Maria Celebrations A designed in a six-dimensional shape of a star. It appears to be a n Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The star fromhe allSt. sides,Luke’s even Church from the top; andby from different inside associationsit looks like aof tent. parish. Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. at Rohini Chapel celebratedis beautifully the designedfeast of and the interiorFathers, could Brothers not get and any Catechism better. OJohn Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass TThe YouthEpiphany of St. Johnand Christmas Palam also tree contributed teachers with alsotheir conducted presence ina few this presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as Parish onshort 8th trip. January, A small 2017. picnic Bi-lingual with our Holy chosen games,family ismuch what to we the all surprise needed toof the well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, ◗ Vanessa Lobo Massget over concelebrated this lockdown by Fr.boredom. Mathew A warmparishioners. welcome given For by the Fr. Christmas Stanley tree the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them Koyical.Kozhichira Fr. toJames all 75 Peter of us Raj was (Parish heart touching.celebrations, Guest appearance the catechism by Sis.students by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to Priest),Lalitha RoshniFr. Vijay Lakra Kullu was&, Fr. overwhelming. Balaraju were A message presented was with shared beautiful from gifts speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word SwamiLuke 7 :(Assistant 14; and a game Parish was Priests) played to conveybut that also focus the toddlersand goals were are what given and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming andwe require Fr. Amit to (Nepal live a healthy Province) and also happy life.small The presents.scenic beauty Also, included the lucky a draw priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the concelebratedtree house, cottages, the holy a mass.beautiful After chapel, forfish Christmas farms, ducks, Hamper cows, was dogs, drawn t. John Mary Vianney church parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers thehens, Mass, pigeons, the fair goats was and declared what not. open and the prizes were conferred to two celebrated the birth of Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church byWe the loved Fr. howJames they've Peter Raj,taken There care of floralucky & fauna winners, at the we’re same keeping place. Ittheir SJesus Christ, our Saviour on announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He werewas indeed food and an experiencegames stalls of organizedjoy. This trip wouldnames not a secret have beenfor security successful purpose. 24th December, 2016. The Holy thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo if it was not Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers. initiated by Fr. Pradeep. His homily centred, Fr. Maria in the message of love and care Antony towards each other. Reminding Thanksgiving Get-together at under the the parishioners that Christmas St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar Guidance of is not just about decorations he Church of Resurrection Fr. Irudaya and exchange of gifts but it is a n Saturday, January 14, 2017, games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a celebrated its parish Kumar. time for us to prepare our hearts OSt. Michael’s Church, Prasad number of prizes were announced TChristmas Day on Sunday to welcome the Baby Jesus into Nagar held thanksgiving get- and presented by Mr Rajan George, January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, our lives anew each year. The together function at 7.00 p.m. Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated celebrant through his melodious at the Church Complex for the Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to mass. The choir along with the singing inspired all of us to members of Parish Council, Catholic one and all for their whole-hearted congregation added to the bliss by celebrate Christmas with joy and Association, Vincent De Paul, collaboration and support extended singing beautiful hymns and carols reconciliation with one another. Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of throughout the year 2016 in the to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. The ecstatic parishioners made Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. church activities. Encouraging the The mass concluded with prize merry and danced on the beats of Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated parishioners to continue to raise the distribution of all the activities mandar in celebration. the get-together. Amid fun and power of community through 2017. conducted, the children were New Year 2017 and the Feast awarded prizes and certificates. of Our Lady at the thanksgiving Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative adoration on 31st December, 2016. ‘sector-wise’game which served a The Christmas tree on 8th January, double benefit; firstly to improve 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev the bonding between people living St. Luke’s Youth Group Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr in the same or nearby sectors and Anupa, where every parishioner secondly to elect a member who outh Choir participated in two most coveted contests at the regardless of their age participated would represent them at the New Ydiocese, ‘Cathedral Bells’ and ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing and won exciting goodies. The Parish Council to be formed. competition). The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” day, a celebration of one family in Games conducted for the kids and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful by the parish youth and food stalls George. beginning of the New Year 2017. put up by &for the parishioners 16 The Voice of Delhi God Bless us all! added excitement to the event.

18 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 19 "Let Christ Be Born In You" : Parish Youth Retreat

t. Michael's Church, Gurgaon conducted a One Day Retreat for the Parish Youth on 20th December 2020. It started with a Holy Eucharistic Mass celebrated by the Parish Priest Fr. Irudaya Kumar which was followed by sessions by Fr. SThomas Blessin (Zonal Director, Gurgaon) reflecting upon youth life. He explained how being a part of the youth group brings out the best of an individual. He also made us realise the importance of prayer in our life. The Retreat commenced with Eucharist Adoration led by Fr. Thomas Blessin and Fr. Maria Antony. We felt really delighted to see a total of 65 youth present in the Retreat and receive such an overwhelming response from the youth.

HAUZ KHAS Good Shepherd Church Parish Priest: Fr. James Peter Raj Asst. Parish Priest: Fr. Balraju Philomin Sacrament of Confirmation and Holy Communion Rose Mary Peter

th January, the day when Catholic Church 10celebrated Baptism of our Lord Jesus was a very blessed and heavenly day for the parishioners of Good Shepherd Church, as His Grace Archbishop Anil Couto conferred Sacrament of Confirmation to 27 children to be true and responsible witnesses of Catholic Church and 21 Children received the body and blood of Jesus Christ for the first time through Sacrament of First Holy Communion. It was a very joyful and prestigious day for all our children, parents and our parish community.

February 2021 17 parish roundup fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017

The entire church community was prayingdefence for cthisolony day to be successful for nArelA PrAsAd nAgAr rohini PArish last one month. The weather become St.really Luke’s pleasant Church with lovely sunshine on St. John Mary Vianney Church St. Michael Church The Church of Resurrection Parish10th January, Priest: Fr.Jamesas first Peter week Raj of January Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Swami Parish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. Pinto Parish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha Asst.is normally Parish Priests: very Fr.Balarajucold, foggy, Anthony rain, Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L hail storm etc. We really experienced Christmas Feastthe presence of of Lordepiphany as if the Gates ofand christmas day Altar Servers Day at Heaven opened and Jesus bestowing ◗ Ms. Anjali Thomas Prasad nagar Day christmashis blessings and Holy tree Spirit celebrationon our Children, the atmosphere was very Holy ◗ C.M. Thomas Celebrations ◗and Rosmin Solemn S Maria inside the church premises. n Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The The religious ceremony started with he St. Luke’s Church by different associations of parish. Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. welcoming His Grace Bishop Anil and at Rohini celebrated the feast of Fathers, Brothers and Catechism John Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass Fr. Ajeet with traditional songs along O Epiphany and Christmas tree teachers also conducted a few presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as Twith Mandar, followed by entrance Parish on 8th January, 2017. Bi-lingual Holy games, much to the surprise of the well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, hymn leading our children to the Sacred ◗ Vanessa Lobo Mass concelebrated by Fr. Mathew parishioners. For the Christmas tree the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them Altar. We all adhered to the rules of Koyical. Fr. James Peter Raj (Parish celebrations, the catechism students by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to Delhi with regard to Covid, wearing Priest), Fr. Vijay Kullu &, Fr. Balaraju were presented with beautiful gifts speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word mask and maintaining social distance. Swami (Assistant Parish Priests) but also the toddlers were given and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming andThe Fr.beauty Amit of (Nepal the day Province) was that also Bishop small presents. Also, the lucky draw priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the concelebratedAnil’s address the to holythe mass.Diksharthi, After the for Christmas Hamper was drawn t. John Mary Vianney church parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers theaddress Mass, of the Guru fair wasto Shisyadeclared (Teacher open and the prizes were conferred to two celebrated the birth of Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church byand the Student) Fr. James was Peter very Raj, Thereremarkable, lucky winners, we’re keeping their SJesus Christ, our Saviour on announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He weremeaningful, food and touching, games stalls spiritual, organized and names a secret for security purpose. 24th December, 2016. The Holy thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo to sum up Archbishop defined the Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers. role of Jesus Christ and his mission in Fr. Pradeep. His homily centred, totality and urged the candidates to in the message of love and care live life Christ like. Bishop explained towards each other. Reminding Thanksgiving Get-together at that through anointing the seal of Holy the parishioners that Christmas St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar Spirit you have become follower of is not just about decorations he Church of Resurrection Jesus and bear witnesses to Christ and and exchange of gifts but it is a n Saturday, January 14, 2017, games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a celebrated its parish children who have received Jesus Christ time for us to prepare our hearts OSt. Michael’s Church, Prasad number of prizes were announced TChristmas Day on Sunday in their lives for the first time, have to welcome the Baby Jesus into Nagar held thanksgiving get- and presented by Mr Rajan George, January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, become members of the Sacred Altar. our lives anew each year. The together function at 7.00 p.m. Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated You have received the gifts of Holy Spirit, rejoice and be thankful to God. You all have gotcelebrant a call to through serve God his and melodious spread the at the Church Complex for the Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to mass. The choir along with the Word of God, you are gifted and you have a task to work for the Kingdom of God. The giftssinging of Holy inspired Spirit, all are of very us to precious members of Parish Council, Catholic one and all for their whole-hearted congregation added to the bliss by i.e. wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord. celebrateBishop proclaimed Christmas that with Jesus joy andis the Association, Vincent De Paul, collaboration and support extended singing beautiful hymns and carols way, truth and life, he has risen from Death. Through obedience to the will of God, Jesusreconciliation conquered on with temptations, one another. evils of Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of throughout the year 2016 in the to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. devil through Prayers and fasting and through resurrection had victory over death. BishopThe ecstaticlaid emphasis parishioners that through made the Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. church activities. Encouraging the The mass concluded with prize Sacrament of Confirmation and Holy Communion all these candidates have a special vocationmerry and and dancedthey need on tothe listen beats to of the Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated parishioners to continue to raise the distribution of all the activities call of Jesus, grow in relationship with God, imbibing his teachings building strong faithmandar in God, in celebration.through attending Holy the get-together. Amid fun and power of community through 2017. conducted, the children were Mass and Eucharistic Service, helping in church activities etc. and keep spreading the WordNew of God. Year 2017 and the Feast awarded prizes and certificates. of Our Lady at the thanksgiving Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative It was a blissful moment, after the vote of thanks was delivered by two representatives on behalf of Children receiving adoration on 31st December, 2016. ‘sector-wise’game which served a Sacrament of Confirmation and Holy Communion for His Grace, Bishop Anil Couto, Fr. Ajeet Patrick, Fr. James and Fr. Balraj. The Christmas tree on 8th January, double benefit; firstly to improve A special mention was given for all our catechism teachers under the able guidance of Fr. James, and Sr. Joyce. We are blessed 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev the bonding between people living with three convent sisters who had very beautifully decorated the Altar and our vibrant choir always is very melodious, the Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr in the same or nearby sectors and lay St.leaders helpedLuke’s in different ways Youth to make this day aGroup very nice one. The program concluded with photography session Anupa, where every parishioner secondly to elect a member who along with giving of certificates and gifts through the sacred hands of His Grace followed by refreshments. Last but not the outh Choir participated in two most coveted contests at the regardless of their age participated would represent them at the New least we the parishioners were thankful to Almighty God for everything being done in the best super manner, our God is diocese, ‘Cathedral Bells’ and ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing and won exciting goodies. The Parish Council to be formed. Great,Y he listens to our Prayers and give us things which are good for us according to his plans – Praise be the God. competition). The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” day, a celebration of one family in Games conducted for the kids and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful by the parish youth and food stalls George. beginning of the New Year 2017. put up by &for the parishioners 18 The Voice of Delhi God Bless us all! added excitement to the event.

18 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 19 Narela St. John Mary Vianney Church Parish Priest: Fr. Savariraj

Christmas and Christmas Tree celebration Ms. Mukta

he COVID – 19 pandemic put a full stop to all our desires and wishes. In 2020, we had Tno celebration together in the parish due to COVID-19 pandemic. So, all people waited excitedly to celebrate Christmas, the birth of child Jesus. The Church and entire church campus was decorated beautifully. The crib near the entrance gate of the Church and the radiance of the illuminated Church drew the attention of people of all religion. On 25 December, the holy mass started with carols singing which made the atmosphere of joy and happiness. The Eucharistic Mass was presided over by the parish priest Rev.Fr. Savariraj. During his homily Father said that we should be concerned and help people those who need us because we do not know when we might need their help. Father told us that we should try to meet each other needs as far as possible. Choir headed by Sr. Wilma rendered melodious songs made the celebration spiritually meaningful. After the holy mass, cake and coffee were served. Fr. Savariraj thanked the members of the parish council and everyone for their contribution to make the celebration very joyful.

On 10 January 2021, the parish celebrated Christmas tree with great zeal and enthusiasm. The celebration began with the solemn mass and followed by homily. Rev. Fr. Savariraj, the parish priest celebrated the Holy Mass. Thereafter various games were organized by our vibrant sisters, Sr. Vincy, Sr. Wilma, Sr. Jaya, Bro. Sandeep and Mr. Anthony for all age groups like picking up the groundnuts, passing the stones, lemon race, passing the water balloons, decorating the partner, caring and sharing each other, together we shine and tambola which were much appreciated by one and all. Everyone enjoyed games thoroughly. There was much laughter and gaiety as the parishioners got a chance to intermingle in the true festive spirit. Prize was distributed to the winners. The winners of crib making were also awarded. The parish priest thanked all the organizers and the participants at the Christmas tree celebration. Mr. Henry, the secretary of the parish council thanked Fr. Savariraj who is the heart and soul of the parish.

The eventful day came to an end with a delicious lunch. It was a day of fun and frolic for the parishioners.

February 2021 19 parish roundup fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017

Palam Vihar St. d efencePeter’s Church colony nArelA PrAsAd nAgAr rohini PArish Parish Priest: Fr. Victor Immanuel St. Luke’s Church St. John Mary Vianney Church St. Michael Church The Church of Resurrection Parish Priest: Fr.James Peter Raj Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Swami Parish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. Pinto Parish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha Asst. Parish Priests: Fr.Balaraju Anthony Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L Spreading the Joy of Christmas Christmas FeastMario Noronha of epiphany and christmas day Altar Servers Day at n Sunday 27th December, 2020 the Catholic Association of St. Peter’s Church, Palam◗ Ms. Vihar Anjali along Thomas with the support of Prasad nagar Day christmasMembers of the tree Parish Councilcelebration and Youth Members organized the distribution of dry ration kits to poor families – ◗ C.M. Thomas some of whom were identified by our Parish Priest, Fr. Victor Immanuel and some whom were identified by the Nuns Celebrations O◗ Rosmin S Maria from St. Anne Provincial House and Daughters of Sacred Heart. n Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The he St. Luke’s Church by different associations of parish. Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. The parishioners contributed in kind and cash. After collecting the ration we were able to distribute dry ration to 50 poor at Rohini celebrated the feast of Fathers, Brothers and Catechism John Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass families. The ration kits consisted of Rice, Pulses (Dal), Sugar, Atta, cooking oil, Masalas, Washing powder, etc. and of O Epiphany and Christmas tree teachers also conducted a few presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as Tcourse Christmas cakes for all along with some biscuits and sweets. A few really deserving ones were also given blankets. Parish on 8th January, 2017. Bi-lingual Holy games, much to the surprise of the well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, These ration kits will help these poor deserving people to take care of their meals for at least an entire month. ◗ Vanessa Lobo Mass concelebrated by Fr. Mathew parishioners. For the Christmas tree the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them Koyical.The large Fr. smiles James on Peter the faces Raj of(Parish the people whilecelebrations, receiving the the catechism ration kits students brought an immense sense of joy to the parishioners by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to Priest),who accompanied Fr. Vijay Kullu us while &, Fr. we Balaraju were distributing were presented the kits. It with was reallybeautiful a wonderful gifts feeling of joy and happiness that we were speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word Swamiable to (Assistantexperience. Parish The realPriests) meaning of butChristmas, also the where toddlers Christ were was given the center of the celebrations was experienced by and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming andthose Fr. who Amit gave (Nepal and alsoProvince) those whoalso received.small presents. Also, the lucky draw priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the concelebrated the holy mass. After for Christmas Hamper was drawn t. John Mary Vianney church parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers May God bless all those who contributed towards making Christmas a joy filled season for all those 50 poor families. I do the Mass, the fair was declared open and the prizes were conferred to two celebrated the birth of Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church hope that we can continue this good work of providing for the poor and needy wherever we go. by the Fr. James Peter Raj, There lucky winners, we’re keeping their SJesus Christ, our Saviour on announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He were food and games stalls organized names a secret for security purpose. 24th December, 2016. The Holy thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers. Fr. Pradeep. His homily centred, in the message of love and care towards each other. Reminding Thanksgiving Get-together at the parishioners that Christmas St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar is not just about decorations he Church of Resurrection and exchange of gifts but it is a n Saturday, January 14, 2017, games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a celebrated its parish time for us to prepare our hearts OSt. Michael’s Church, Prasad number of prizes were announced TChristmas Day on Sunday to welcome the Baby Jesus into Nagar held thanksgiving get- and presented by Mr Rajan George, January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, our lives anew each year. The together function at 7.00 p.m. Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated celebrant through his melodious at the Church Complex for the Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to mass. The choir along with the singing inspired all of us to members of Parish Council, Catholic one and all for their whole-hearted congregation added to the bliss by celebrate Christmas with joy and Association, Vincent De Paul, collaboration and support extended singing beautiful hymns and carols reconciliation with one another. Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of throughout the year 2016 in the to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. The ecstatic parishioners made Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. church activities. Encouraging the The mass concluded with prize merry and danced on the beats of Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated parishioners to continue to raise the distribution of all the activities mandar in celebration. the get-together. Amid fun and power of community through 2017. conducted, the children were New Year 2017 and the Feast awarded prizes and certificates. of Our Lady at the thanksgiving Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative adoration on 31st December, 2016. ‘sector-wise’game which served a The Christmas tree on 8th January, double benefit; firstly to improve 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev the bonding between people living St. Luke’s Youth Group Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr in the same or nearby sectors and Anupa, where every parishioner secondly to elect a member who outh Choir participated in two most coveted contests at the regardless of their age participated would represent them at the New Ydiocese, ‘Cathedral Bells’ and ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing and won exciting goodies. The Parish Council to be formed. competition). The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” day, a celebration of one family in Games conducted for the kids and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful by the parish youth and food stalls George. beginning of the New Year 2017. put up by &for the parishioners 20 The Voice of Delhi God Bless us all! added excitement to the event.

18 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 19 Shahdra St. Joseph's Church Parish Priest: Fr. Jude OFM Cap

Christmas Celebrations “Thanks be to God for his incredible gift”. (2 Cor. 9:5) Lubhawna John

fter a very long wait of many months our church services resumed welcoming the Aadvent season. Notwithstanding COVID-19 the faithful of Shahdara parish celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ ebulliently. In order to ensure participation of all parishioners we had scheduled three Holy Eucharist services with one Night Vigil service on December 24, 2020 followed by two Holy Eucharist services on December 25, 2020. The main celebrant for the Night Vigil Mass was Rev. Fr. Raittus. The other two Holy masses were celebrated one by one by Rev. Fr. Raittus and Rev. Fr. Jude Martin. The CTC sisters made a fascinating Christmas crib. They magnificently decorated the church altar too. Choir led by Mr. John Alexander sang hymns euphoniously and devotionally. The main attraction of the event was the yonder ‘Star of Night’. Rev. Fr. Jude Martin along with two other parishioners Mr. Bobby Louis and Mr. Bobby Massey made a big white marvellous star, which was 22 feet tall. We placed it on the extreme top of our church’s ashram building. The star was clearly visible from Shahdara metro station. The credit for such a brilliant idea goes to none other than our parish priest Rev. Fr. Jude Martin who in spite of his health concerns worked very hard, putting in all his efforts for bringing out the best for Christmas. Sonipat St. Jude’s Church Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Samy Asst. Priest : Fr. Sampath Kumar Birthday Celebration of our Parish Priest Reshmi Kujur th December, 2020 was a joyous day for the parish members of St. Jude’s church Sonepat, as they planned a surprise birthday celebration for our loving parish priest Fr. Kulandai Samy which was on 16th December, 2020, under the 13guidance of assistant parish priest Fr. Sampath. It is said that celebrations are incomplete without God’s blessing and so, the celebration started with a thanksgiving holy mass, which started with introduction to mass and birthday wishes by Ms. Reshmi.

The mass was concluded by vote of thanks by Mr. Tilak and inviting all for small cultural program put up by youth. Cultural program was hosted by Mr. Tilak, followed by cake cutting and snacks enjoyed by all. At last Fr. Kulandai Samy thanked all the parish members for the wonderful surprise.

February 2021 21 parish roundup fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017

Christmasdefence colony Celebration in St. Jude’s nArel ParishA PrAsAd nAgAr rohini PArish Reshmi Kujur St. Luke’s Church St. John Mary Vianney Church St. Michael Church The Church of Resurrection Parish Priest: Fr.James Peter Raj Parish Priest: Fr. Kulandai Swami Parish Priest: Fr. Arthur R. Pinto Parish Priest: Fr.Ivan Madtha he Christmas day was celebrated on 25th December, 2020 in a special way in St. Jude’s parish. On the special occasion Asst. Parish Priests: Fr.Balaraju Anthony Swami, Fr.Vijay Kullu Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Umesh Ekka Asst. Parish Priests: Fr. Balraj L the holy mass was celebrated by parish priest Rev. Fr. Kulandai Samy and assistant parish priest Fr. Sampath. Christmas TFr. Sampath explained why birth of Christ was needed for the salvation of humanity and that Christmas is the Altar Servers Day at Feastgreatest gift of to humanity epiphany by God. and christmas day ◗ Ms. Anjali Thomas Prasad nagar Day christmasThe choir sang joyous tree hymns under celebration the guidance of Fr. Sampath. And to understand the Christmas in a meaningful way, a small cultural program was prepared by youth, which clearly explained the immense love of God for humanity. This was ◗ C.M. Thomas ◗ Celebrations followed Rosmin byS Maria Snacks enjoyed by all. n Sunday, 27 November 2016 we celebrated Altar Servers Day. The he St. Luke’s Church by different associations of parish. Eucharistic celebration began with a short introduction on the life of St. at Rohini celebrated the feast of Fathers, Brothers and Catechism OJohn Berchmans, the Patron Saint of the Altar Servers. The Holy Mass TEpiphany and Christmas tree teachers also conducted a few presided over by Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto. The introduction, readings and prayer as Parish on 8th January, 2017. Bi-lingual Holy games, much to the surprise of the well as prayer for faithful were done by the Altar Servers. Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto, ◗ Vanessa Lobo Mass concelebrated by Fr. Mathew parishioners. For the Christmas tree the Parish Priest said, “Serving at the altar is a special privilege", given to them Koyical. Fr. James Peter Raj (Parish celebrations, the catechism students by the Church. The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to Priest), Fr. Vijay Kullu &, Fr. Balaraju were presented with beautiful gifts speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word Swami (Assistant Parish Priests) but also the toddlers were given and the body of the Lord." It is considered to be the first step towards becoming and Fr. Amit (Nepal Province) also small presents. Also, the lucky draw priests and religious to serve the Lord and His people. He also exhorted the concelebrated the holy mass. After for Christmas Hamper was drawn t. John Mary Vianney church parents to inspire and encourage their children to join the Altar Servers the Mass, the fair was declared open and the prizes were conferred to two celebrated the birth of Association and render their valuable service at the altar. After the church by the Fr. James Peter Raj, There lucky winners, we’re keeping their SJesus Christ, our Saviour on announcement, Rev. Fr. Arthur felicitated them and gave away Certificates. He were food and games stalls organized names a secret for security purpose. 24th December, 2016. The Holy thanked all those who actively involved themselves, especially Sr. Stella Lobo New Year’s Celebration in St.Jude’sEucharist Parish was celebrated by Rev. and Mrs. Teresa George, the animators of Altar Servers. Reshmi Kujur Fr. Pradeep. His homily centred, in the message of love and care st he beginning of New Year 2021 was done by holy mass on 1 January 2021 at 8:30towards am. The each holy other. mass Remindingwas celebrated Thanksgiving Get-together at by parish priest Fr. Kulandai Samy and assistant parish priest Fr. Sampath. the parishioners that Christmas St. Michael’s, Prasad Nagar TJoyous hyms were sung by choir; Father encouraged everyone a new beginningis withnot just new about zeal decorationsand positivity and he Church of Resurrection wished everyone a year fully loaded with happiness, success and prosperity. and exchange of gifts but it is a n Saturday, January 14, 2017, games anchored Ms. Aparna Babu a celebrated its parish time for us to prepare our hearts OSt. Michael’s Church, Prasad number of prizes were announced Christmas Day on Sunday It all ended with a family day celebration that included games, dance and refreshments. T to welcome the Baby Jesus into Nagar held thanksgiving get- and presented by Mr Rajan George, January 08, 2017. Parish Priest, our lives anew each year. The together function at 7.00 p.m. Vice President, Parish Council. Fr. Fr.Ivan Madtha, celebrated celebrant through his melodious at the Church Complex for the Arthur expressed heartfelt thanks to mass. The choir along with the singing inspired all of us to members of Parish Council, Catholic one and all for their whole-hearted congregation added to the bliss by celebrate Christmas with joy and Association, Vincent De Paul, collaboration and support extended singing beautiful hymns and carols reconciliation with one another. Youth, Mahila Samaj, Legion of throughout the year 2016 in the to mark the Feast of the Epiphany. The ecstatic parishioners made Mary, Religious and Altar Servers. church activities. Encouraging the The mass concluded with prize merry and danced on the beats of Rev. Fr. Arthur Pinto inaugurated parishioners to continue to raise the distribution of all the activities mandar in celebration. the get-together. Amid fun and power of community through 2017. conducted, the children were New Year 2017 and the Feast awarded prizes and certificates. of Our Lady at the thanksgiving Fr.Ivan conducted an innovative adoration on 31st December, 2016. ‘sector-wise’game which served a The Christmas tree on 8th January, double benefit; firstly to improve 2017, tastefully arranged by Rev the bonding between people living St. Luke’s Youth Group Fr Umesh Ekka, Sr Rajni and Sr in the same or nearby sectors and Anupa, where every parishioner secondly to elect a member who outh Choir participated in two most coveted contests at the regardless of their age participated would represent them at the New Ydiocese, ‘Cathedral Bells’ and ‘Gloria’ (Syro-Malabar Carol singing and won exciting goodies. The Parish Council to be formed. competition). The Choir bagged 2nd Position in “Cathedral Bells 2016” day, a celebration of one family in Games conducted for the kids and ‘Gloria’ under the leadership and guidance of the choir master Jibin Christ Jesus. Cheers to a beautiful by the parish youth and food stalls George. beginning of the New Year 2017. put up by &for the parishioners 22 The Voice of Delhi God Bless us all! added excitement to the event.

18 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 19 Vacancies IN THE DELHI CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESAN SCHOOLS FoR The Y e AR 2017-18 FEBRUARY 2021 sChooL s.no. name of the schools nursery prt/ asst. teachers tgt pgt others snippets 1 St. Michael's Sr. School, All subjects (1) All subjects (1) English (2), hindi (1) - Receptionist (1), Gurgaon Social Studies (1) nurse (1), Supervisor (1) Ashok Vihar 2 Rosary Sr. Sec. School, All subjects (2) All subjects (2) English (1), - - Montfort School Principal: Brother T. Alex kingsway Camp Social Studies (1), Science (with chemistry sAhodAy background) (1) Sr. Sec. School’s 3 St. Mary's Sr. Sec. School, - All subjects (1) - - Receptionist (1), CarolPrincipal: Sr. Singing Sudha BS Fest 2020 Mayur Vihar Counsellor (1) 4 Sahoday Sr. Sec. School, - All subjects (1) English (1) - LDC(with computer (Solo Singing) hauz khas knowledge) (1) BelmeraSahoday Lobo Honoured! 5 St. Michael's Sr. Sec. School, - All subjects (1) English (1), 1- Chemistry - ◗ Miss Ravinder Kaur Channey Pusa Road hindi & Sanskrit (1), ubilees are occasions to be celebrated and cherished, to bask in its glory, Western Music (1) whichahoday stands Sr. Sec.tall School’sfor its moral efforts and spiritualRev. Fr. values, Vincent for Crasta imparting and Principal, sound yoga (1) educationtowards and Clean focusing India onwas discipline to helpRev. build Sr. Sudha leaders. and It isEco-Club an opportunity has been 6 St. Anthony's boys Sec. - - - - Vice-Principal (1) J to reflectapplauded on our pastby NICER achievements (National and to bracesuccessfully ourselves able to toface instil the thesenew norms habits School, Paharganj (Govt. S Aided) andInstitute challenges of Cleanliness posed to us Education today. & among the students. The award was Research). The felicitation ceremony presented by Hon’ble Ambassador 7 St. Mary's Sr. Sec. School, - All subjects (2) - - - ENVISAGE '20, an inter school online competition encompassing of a myriad of Rohtak eventswas held with on more 13th than December, a hundred 2016, entries wasof then Nepal. conducted. Among the This present was followed were World Cleanliness Convention Day several dignitaries and learned men 8 St. Michael's Jr. School, - All subjects (2) - - - by the MUN 2020, which was also a grand success. These events would have not Prasad nagar beenat India made International possible without Centre, the unflinchingLodhi and support women, of our Vice dear Chancellors Principal Brother of Road. Selected schools of Delhi NCR Universities and Professors. 9 St. Jude's Academy, Sonepat - Music (1), PTi (1) English (1), Science (1), - - T. Alex and the ever so dexterous staff of Montfort School. We the Montfort Maths (1) familywere awardedwish everyone for their a warm efforts Christmas in and Sahodayblessings now for afeels safe, the healthy and promoting a habit of cleanliness, responsibility of taking the cause 10 Maria Manzil School, nuh - All subjects (4) English (2), Science (1), - Office administration (1) prosperous new year. May the little babe in the manger infuse our lives with hindi (1), Maths(1) love,hygiene joy, peaceand proper and hope sanitation in our among further by attempting to educate the the students. Sahoday Sr. Sec. School residents of the neighbouring colony 11 Mata Mariam Jan Seva - All subjects (1), PTi (1) English (1), hindi (1), Commerce (1) Science Lab Assistant, hearts, homes and community. under the guidance of its Manager, in this direction. Vidyalaya, narnaul Maths (1), Dance (1) (1), Receptionist (1) , This month we held another Office Clerk (1) celebration in accordance 12 Sahoday Primary School, - All subjects (1) - - Accountant (1) with the festive season of the Aya nagar coming of our baby Jesus, the 'Montfort Carol Singing Fest NOTE: 2020', where 19 schools from 1. Applications forms must be collected from the School Office concerned between 6th to 14th Feb 2017 (excluding saturday & Sunday) during school hours. all over India participated with 2. Filled forms must be submitted by hand to the Director for Education, Yusuf Sadan, New Delhi- 01 between 13th to 16th February, 2017 86 entries. In this online solo (excluding saturday & Sunday) between 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 4pm. carol singing competition for 3. Accommodation facility will be provided to the selected candidates in Narnaul, Rohtak and Nuh. 4. Filled application forms of Narnual, Nuh and Rohtak can either be submitted to DCA Education office or concerned school. classes I to V, the competitors 5. Class IV posts(auxillary/helping staff) are filled through the outsource agency. sang a variety of Christmas 6. The filled forms of the helping staff must be submitted to the school office concerned between 13th to 16th February 2017 (excluding Saturday & Sunday) during the school hours. songs in English and Hindi. All 7. Management reserves the right to call only the shortlisted candidates for the Interview. our little maestros who took 8. Filled application forms of St. Anthony’s Boys Sec. School, Paharganj must be submitted to school premises during school hours. part in the competition made it a grand success. Rev. Fr. Vincent d’souza Director for Education February 2021 23

february 2017 29 SCHOOL SNIPPETS FEBRUARY 2021

Narela Rosary School Manager: Fr. Vincent D'Souza Principal: Fr. Savariraj Christ is born, let's reach out Mrs. Rachita

" Christmas is the most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most. The magic of Christmas never ends and its greatest gifts are our family and friends". hristmas is the festival that inspires the spirit of sharing and caring. Soaked in the spirit of Christmas Rosary CSchool, Narela had a virtual yet wishful Christmas celebration on 22 December 2020. In order to reflect the Christmas vibes the school was decorated beautifully by the teachers of Rosary School. The core messages of our celebration are to bring forgiveness where there is hatred, sympathy where there is selfishness, simplicity where there is pride and bring a smile on someone's face who has never smiled. The occasion was graced by the esteem presence of the principal Rev. Fr. Savariraj, Sr. Jaya and Sr. Wilma. The day commenced with a blissful shower of flowers on our guests to feel the joy of Christmas. To cherish the blessings, Father, Sisters and Mr. Jitender lit the holy lamp with a wish for greater good of humanity which was followed by a beautiful prayer dance. Any festival is meaningless if we are unaware of its hidden meaning, hence to enlighten us with all that, our teachers presented a mono skit depicting the entire scenario of the birth of Jesus Christ. The skit gave us insight into the true meaning and the value of Christmas. The teachers also presented an enthusiastic dance showing their love and devotion towards Baby Jesus. The word carol actually means dance or a song of praise and joy. "Carols commemorate the nativity of Jesus Christ. Carols spread the spirit of Christmas through hymns of birth of Jesus". Carols were practiced under an able guidance of Sr. Jaya and Sr. Wilma. Teachers sang melodious carols together to rejoice the birth of our Saviour and danced along with Santa Claus because any Christmas celebration remains incomplete without the presence of Santa Claus. On this joyful occasion, Rev. Fr. Savariraj enlightened us with a beautiful story of a mouse and how its karma affected the karma of others. The moral of the story is "what comes around goes around". So we should help others because we do not know when we might need the same help. The heartfelt gratitude was given by Mavis and Anita. At the end of the programme, Mukta and Rachita wished ' MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS HAPPY NEW YEAR’ to all those who were present for the celebration. All were filled with joy and happiness by this wonderful celebration. The day ended with a fellowship meal.

24 The Voice of Delhi Kheri Manajat Rosary Sr Sec School Manager: Fr. Savariraj Headmistress: Sr. Vincy

“Survey the path for your feet and all your ways will be sure.” Ms. Neha Gloria Soreng

e, the family of Rosary Sr. Sec. School, Kheri Manajat, reached out to villages during this pandemic to conduct village survey, accepting all the odd challenges. WIt was not easy for the Rosarians to move out and conduct the survey during this apocalypse yet we believed in the providence of God Almighty as He gives us the strength to reach out and make everything possible. The launch of survey appeared to be very easy and possible for us together with the village people and their families. We, the teachers have formed four groups, each group containing at least three teachers including Sr.Vincy, the principal, Sr. Wilma and Bro. Sandeep. We covered the areas of Barota, Nathupur, Saboli and Safiabad on 19th December 2020.

On the very first day of survey, some difficulties were trying to hold us back, but surprisingly, the survey was very pleasant and we could approach the people, which created a very conducive atmosphere. All the hard work and personal efforts were welcomed and highly appreciated. We got to know about the present condition of people living in the village. Some of them were jobless but they did not fail to welcome us with a joy and big smile on their faces. We received a heart warming response from the villages as they considered us their sons and daughters.

On the second, third, fourth and fifth days, we shuffled the group members and covered the areas of Halapur, Chhatera, Ladpur, Kathulupur, Manirpur, Bakner, Indra Colony , Police Colony, Kheri Manajat , Chhatra, Mala Majra, Ladpur, Sanjay colony, Mamurpur, Gautam Colony and Shiv Colony. As we proceeded to the villages, we could feel one with the people of the villages and influence them to know about the school by respectfully drawing their attention towards our school. Indeed, we have experienced the providence of God through out our village survey, and we thank God almighty for His blessings and grace upon each and every one of us.

We, the Rosarians have the capacity of making impossible things possible by the grace of God. With God, we are heroes; without God we are zeros.

February 2021 25 SCHOOL SNIPPETS FEBRUARY 2021

Hauzkhas

Sahoday Sr. Sec. School Manager : Fr. James Peter Raj Principal: Sr Joyce Fernandes Christmas Celebration at Sahoday Sr. Sec. School “Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on Earth”.

Sr. Vanitha Veena B S

hristmas fills our hearts with God’s love, peace and Joy. To Ccelebrate this glorious event Sahoday Sr. Sec. School took virtual platform to convey the message of Christmas. The organizing committee under the leadership and guidance of our Principal Sr. Joyce a 40 minute entertainment programme was created.

The prayer was led by the Headmistress Sr. Alice, school Manager Rev Fr James Peter Raj conveyed the Christmas greetings with the message of hope and optimism. The chief guest of the day Rev Fr Rajkumar delivered the Christmas message through a meaningful narrative ‘walking the extra miles’. The real meaning of Christmas is to recognize God with us and to find new ways in the journey of one’s life.

The tiny tots of Nursery performed an energetic dance on Christmas carol. The primary students creatively brought out the Christmas message through the symbols. The upper primary and senior students brought out the skit on the life of Jesus. The dances and carols added flavor to the celebration. With the encouraging words of the principal the programme came to an end. We thank the school management for their untiring efforts for the growth of the school.

Mayur Vihar phase III St. Mary’s Sr. Sec. School Manager : Rev. Fr. Jose T.J Principal: Rev. Sr. Merlin C J Celebrating Christmas the Marian way Mrs. Aurita Claire John “The people who live in darkness will see a great light, on those who live in the dark land of death, The Light will shine……” - Mathew chap 4:16

Amidst this pandemic, everything has been a new experience for us all. Festivals and gatherings were restricted as well but when it’s time to celebrate we do it at our best.

This year Class X students from the senior wing and class 2 students of the primary wing were privileged to conduct a virtual Christmas assembly on this special occasion. The assembly started with the prayers to Almighty for the permanent existence of love and peace everywhere.The students presented an array of interesting programmes.

26 The Voice of Delhi Our Headmistress Rev Sr. Poonam C.J began the primary wing assembly with a beautiful and a joyous Christmas message. Believe in the light that is shown to us and follow it for a better future, was what Sr. shared.

Class X presented a short skit highlighting the existence of humanity and hope which captured the audience. The message was very clear that hope inspires us to do the impossible and helps us carry on during difficult times.

The students from both wings sang melodious carols and presented a dance performance to celebrate the birth of our Lord. Santa Claus, the name synonymous to happiness and joy, added the special element of innocence and joy to the programme.

His Grace Archbishop Anil Couto was the chief guest for the occasion. His Grace said that Christmas will always remind us of the infinite love of God. The birth of our lord has a deeper meaning for the purpose of our lives. The divisions that prevail in our society is all because of us and hence we must break them to see the realities of life because God was born in a manger. His grace emphasised on education to lead us to be enlightened people. The assemblies concluded on the note that life is beautiful.

In this tough and uncertain times, it can be difficult to look beyond what’s currently happening and to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, our Principal Rev. Sister Merlin guided the students and the teachers to keep an optimistic frame of mind, in order to bring up a beautiful programme on this virtual platform.

An exciting virtual class party on 18th December, 2020 as well. Students were so happy to meet everyone after a long time without books. Students decorated their backgrounds, put up Christmas decorations and even dressed up as Santa Claus. They enjoyed themselves by dancing, singing, eating and even playing some virtual games.

The students and the teachers thank Rev Sister Merlin for her guidance and timely support at every step and to make every occasion a memorable one.

February 2021 27 SCHOOL SNIPPETS FEBRUARY 2021

Birthday celebration of Rev. Fr. Jose T.J. Ms. Gincy Paul

he management, staff and the entire Marian family joined Rev. Fr. Jose T.J to celebrate his birthday on 11th January, 2021. dioCesan T Rev. Fr. Jose was presented with bouquet and a gift on this happy occasion. Students missed being a part of this celebration. Hence, they put up a befitting virtual assembly thanking our dear father for being a guiding star to all of us. Students sang songs and danced in their way to wish our dear father. digest OurSOULMATE Principal Rev. Sr. Merlin also praised Father for his great leadership skills and thanked him for being the light to guide St. Mary’s at every step. Rev. Fr. Jose expressed his gratefulness for celebratingarents searching his birthday marriage proposaland he forthanked everyonelliance invited for formaking north indianhis Roman lliance invited for a well educated and birthdayPtheir daughter, so special Roman even Catholic, in these Mother tough times.ACatholic girl 33 years, degree in Fashion Asettled boy, 31/5’9”, Post graduate in Tongue bengali, 29 years, 5’3” born and Designing, working in SPA, Delhi. Proposals Mass Communication, presently teaching brought up in Delhi, fair and beautiful invited from educated RC boys. (Choreographer) at Gems international Public pleasant looking, convent studied from School, Gurgaon. Looking for a well-educated A New Team for JPICDelhi. Post graduate South and pursuing AsiaM.b. A in General 7838028155, 9910882974 Meet and working Roman Catholic girl. hospitality.Currently working in kuwait as a Mrs.store Jubie Manager. Jillow 9810550815 CRI Delhi Unit “You can’t go back and change the beginning, butlliance you invited can start from where suitable you boys are for and RC change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis ◗ Poulose Mangai 9582831644, 9811888292, 9711386984 Agirl (keralite) born and brought up in The first Mary Ward JPIC South Asia General Meet was held on a virtual platform from Delhi, 26 years, 165cm, slim and fair. bTech lliance invited for keralite Roman Latin n a meeting held on January 14 at Jesus and Mary School Hall, the 15th to 17th January 2021. (ECE) currently working with TCS, Gurgaon, ACatholic girl 26 years, 155cm, born and Conference of Religious India, Delhi Unit elected its new officials. The runninglliance invited theme for n oforth this indian JPIC Roman national meetDelhi was nCR toas Systembe rooted, Engineer, responsive upper middle and relevant.brought up in Delhi, fair and pleasant looking, IThe former team led by Fr. Poulose Mangai, SJ completed its term in TheA CatholicCJ and boyIBVM 38/5’6”/12th sisters, pass staff working and studentsclass family. of 45 Mary Ward schools collaboratedb-Tech(Computer Science), working as December 2016. The new team consists of Sr. Babita Kumari, Medical Mission togetherin back office along in awith reputed the hotel TERI in b schoolangalore. of advanced studies to strive for the promotioncomputer of teacher in a reputed conent school (President), Fr. Valan Antony SJ (Vice President), Sr. P. Mary Shanti RJM Justice,Looking Peacefor suitable and working Integrity girl. of Creation. This 9650517755was a monumental conclave, as for thein first Delhi. (Secretary), Sr. Evelyn Menezes DHM (Treasurer), Sr. Mary Sebastian DSP, Sr. time, two Congregations came together to [email protected]. history under the South Asia Justice Jovianna & Sr. Tresa CHF (Exec. Councillors). The members of CRI Delhi Unit Peace 9899802613. and Integrity of Creation (JPIC). 9810909862, 9718188552. include all the consecrated persons of Delhi, Faridabad and Gurgaon dioceses Many prominent speakers gave their insights on the global concerns including Mrs who reside within the territory of the Delhi Archdiocese. The new team will Kamla Bhasin who has been actively engagedatholic with Tamilian, the issues Vellalar related family seeks to development, hold office for three years. genderarents education seeking alliance and formedia their daughter since 1970. C Thealliance JPIC for meettheir son was 32 yearsdeclared old, 5’8”, open by Mrslliance is invited from the parents a well KamlaPRoman Bhasin Catholic, & the32 years. session 5’8” wheatishwas conducted fair, by born Dr. and Fauzia brought Tarannum, up in Delhi, currently Asst. Professor Areputed in the family of Delhi for their daughter Departmentcomplexion born of Regionaland brought Water up in Delhi, Studies. settled in bengaluru and working as a senior M.A., b.Ed., working in a reputed English b.A., b.Ed, convent educated from Delhi. Consultant in a private company. Proposals Medium Senior Secondary School in Delhi. TheWorking objective in a very of reputed this meet iCSE school was to in Delhiencourage are invited young from students RC, Tamil to girls. work together to removeAge-28 years. all interested candidates having theas ainequalities pre-primary teacher, of class, full-scale race, salary. religion and gender. Students were also encouragedgood to ensure family background may apply through: availabilityProposals invited and fromsustainable educated managementRC boys of water09591363149 and sanitation for all. Thenon-smoker, students holding from a St.fixed Mary’s job in Delhi/Sr. Sec.nCR. School took part in this national meet and they 8826784717 were extremely happy and felt privileged to be a part of this initiative. It was a brainstorming [email protected]. session 9717622840 for our students where they discussedarents in searchingdetail about for their the daughter two SDG 28 yrs., goals (SDG goal 5 : Gender Equality and SDG goal 6 : CleanP 5’,water fair, beautiful, and Sanitation). convent studied Steps from they could take to conserve visible and invisible water and alsoSouth to Delhi, work MA on (Eng.), gender diploma equality in Office at individual, C schoolGoan girl, 28 years, height 5’5”, born and and community levels were discussed. management, stenography. Proposals from Rbrought up in Delhi, teacher by profession. north indian RC family invited. Employed boys with a minimum qualification The JPIC meet was an overwhelming experience for our students who pledged to carry forward of a Masters degree may send details. Please the work of sustainable use of water and their resources and also to spread awareness about 9891510123 do mention contact number. the gender equality.

[email protected]. 28 The Voice of Delhi

32 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 33 FEBRUARY 2021 dioCesan SOULMATE digest Chetanalaya arents searching marriage proposal for lliance invited for north indian Roman lliance invited for a well educated and Inauguration of Masala Making Ptheir daughter, Roman Catholic, Mother ACatholic girl 33 years, degree in Fashion Asettled boy, 31/5’9”, Post graduate in Tongue bengali, 29 years, 5’3” born and Designing, working in SPA, Delhi. Proposals Mass Communication, presently teaching Unit at Sundernagari brought up in Delhi, fair and beautiful invited from educated RC boys. (Choreographer) at Gems international Public Chetanalaya had undertaken many simple and sustainable initiatives in the past. pleasant looking, convent studied from School, Gurgaon. Looking for a well-educated HavingA Newunderstood the needTeam of some people, forChetanalaya wished to initiative Delhi. Post graduate and pursuing M.b. A in 7838028155, 9910882974 and working Roman Catholic girl. something that could help the needy persons employed. Different ideas were hospitality.Currently working in kuwait as a discussed and that of Masala Making Unit (under the banner of Ashayein Project store Manager. 9810550815 ofCRI Chetanalaya) Delhi was finalized. ToUnit start a masala making unit, the minimum lliance invited from suitable boys for RC requirement◗ Poulose Mangai was Rs. 30000/- We wanted it to be a participatory initiative. We 9582831644, 9811888292, 9711386984 Agirl (keralite) born and brought up in divided the required amount into 100 shares and requested the people to sponsor. Delhi, 26 years, 165cm, slim and fair. bTech lliance invited for keralite Roman Latin Aroundn a meeting50 heldsponsors on January 14 at Jesus and Mary School Hall, the (ECE) currently working with TCS, Gurgaon, ACatholic girl 26 years, 155cm, born and contributedConference more of Religious than India, Delhi Unit elected its new officials. lliance invited for north indian Roman Delhi nCR as System Engineer, upper middle brought up in Delhi, fair and pleasant looking, whatIThe we former required. team ledThe by Fr. Poulose Mangai, SJ completed its term in ACatholic boy 38/5’6”/12th pass working class family. b-Tech(Computer Science), working as machineDecember 2016.was Thebought new team consists of Sr. Babita Kumari, Medical Mission in back office in a reputed hotel in bangalore. computer teacher in a reputed conent school and(President), the masala Fr. Valan making Antony SJ (Vice President), Sr. P. Mary Shanti RJM Looking for suitable working girl. 9650517755 in Delhi. unit(Secretary), at Sundernagari Sr. Evelyn was Menezes DHM (Treasurer), Sr. Mary Sebastian DSP, Sr. [email protected]. inauguratedJovianna & Sr.by TresaHis Grace CHF (Exec. Councillors). The members of CRI Delhi Unit 9899802613. 9810909862, 9718188552. Archbishopinclude all theAnil consecrated J.T.Couto persons of Delhi, Faridabad and Gurgaon dioceses onwho 30th reside December, within the 2020. territory of the Delhi Archdiocese. The new team will atholic Tamilian, Vellalar family seeks Thehold unitoffice began for three making years. arents seeking alliance for their daughter Calliance for their son 32 years old, 5’8”, lliance is invited from the parents a well dhaniya powder, Chilli PRoman Catholic, 32 years. 5’8” wheatish fair, born and brought up in Delhi, currently Areputed family of Delhi for their daughter powder, haldi and herbal complexion born and brought up in Delhi, settled in bengaluru and working as a senior M.A., b.Ed., working in a reputed English tea powder. b.A., b.Ed, convent educated from Delhi. Consultant in a private company. Proposals Medium Senior Secondary School in Delhi. It is managed by a Self Working in a very reputed iCSE school in Delhi are invited from RC, Tamil girls. Age-28 years. interested candidates having Help Group. The specific as a pre-primary teacher, full-scale salary. good family background may apply through: objective of this unit Proposals invited from educated RC boys 09591363149 is to serve the people non-smoker, holding a fixed job in Delhi/nCR. 8826784717 with pure masala in a [email protected]. reasonable rate and in the 9717622840 arents searching for their daughter 28 yrs., process, this would help P5’, fair, beautiful, convent studied from the needy women. We South Delhi, MA (Eng.), diploma in Office C Goan girl, 28 years, height 5’5”, born and wholeheartedly thank the management, stenography. Proposals from Rbrought up in Delhi, teacher by profession. sponsors. It would be a north indian RC family invited. Employed boys with a minimum qualification great help to the women, of a Masters degree may send details. Please if you could buy dhaniya, 9891510123 do mention contact number. mirch, haldi or herbal powder from the unit. [email protected]. February 2021 29

32 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 33 dioCesan digest fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017

FCAAD Christmas Ordination of Fr. Robert Thanksgiving Service 2020 The Holy Family M.S.StanislausGathering Swamy conferred by A Thanksgiving Service for 2020 was held on Thursday, 31st December 2020 Most Rev. Anil J.T.Couto, fromfor 4.30 Delhipm to 5.30 pm live streamed of Celebration! ◗ Baljeet K Arun on YouTube Channel of Archdiocese Archbishop of Delhi ofSeminarians Delhi. With a short introduction by ◗ Stanislaus Mr. T.K. Devasia, Secretary, DPC, Mr. he very hectic commitments amazing talent in traditional and Second and Third respectively ◗ M.S. Br RichardStanislaus Jose welcomed all to the and problems of monstrous contemporary dances, singing and for the quality of Decorations. A thanksgiving service. Carols by the T proportions, the crippling instrumental music, keeping the Special Prize was awarded to the Youthold in and Hindi silver ipreceded have none, but the i tell service. you, effects of the sudden demonetization audience entertained. The Crib Maintenance Department who “GThe servicein the name was of Jesusinaugurated get up and walk.”by Most of old Currency Notes, failed to Competition was conducted on constructed the iconic Nativity Crib Rev.The Seminarians Anil J.T.Couto, of the Archdiocese Archbishop of Delhi had of dampen our enthusiasm and efforts 22nd with Fr. Joseph and Fr. Jerry in front of our Main Entrance. The Delhi.a Christmas He gatheringbrought on out 27th the December major lessons 2016 at to prepare for the eagerly awaited of the OCD and Fr. Ajit of the Delhi Nursing School and College organized learntSt. Michael’s from School, COVID-19 Gurgaon. experiencing The Seminarians the Christmas Season 2016. Archdiocese as the judges for the a Vandana Christmas Prayer Service sufferingsstudying in various and seminaries: pains andJalandhar, thank God Our Choir led by Fr. Sherin event. The Nursing Hostel won at the Auditorium at 3 PM on 24th, forRanchi, abundant Mumbai, Pune, blessings Delhi and Vinayshowered Gurukul to Thomas and Fr. Arockia Dass, sang the First Prize for the Outdoor which was followed by a High Tea. withstandparticipated inall the adversaries. gathering. holy Carols Eucharist by the Tamil Catholic Ministry added solemnity. In her prayer Mrs Nirmala Prabhakaran Christmas Carols at the campus Category, followed by the Herbal Christmas Liturgy was conducted ferventlyoffered by the prayed his Grace for Archbishop the universal Anil J. church. Mr. Mario Noronha prayed for the nation and the constitutional heads. Fr. Denzil from 21st and on the Hospital Floors Garden and the Linen and Laundry at the same venue from 10 PM on emphasisedT. Couto and was the concelebrated need to support by Fr. John Fr. Stan who is languishing in jail for so many months. Sr. Rani prayed for the untold on Christmas Eve, spreading joy Departments. In the Indoor Category, Christmas Eve. Holy Mass was sufferingsMonteiro and Fr.of Jaisthe A. migrants while Mrs Catherine Toppo thanked God giving resources to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to and solace all around. A Cultural The Cathlab were awarded the First conducted at the Hospital Chapel at look after the needy and the poor affected by the Pandemic. Dr. John Dayal in his People’s Homily exhorted how the church Programme was presented by the Position, followed by the Dialysis and 8.30 AM on Christmas Day. needs to be united on all those issues affecting theriestly community. Ordination Sr. ofBabita Fr. Robert thanked TheologyGod how peoplefrom Vidyajyoti in jail were College suffering. Doctors, Staff and Students at the Emergency Treatment Departments. On the last day of 2016, a Mr. Emmanuel Johnson representing SCC prayed forSwamy, the farmers conferred who areby Mostin protest at ofvarious Theology, places. Delhi. Fr. Felix He served Jones prayedin Auditorium from 3 to 5 PM on The Second Floor, Third Floor and Thanksgiving Prayer was organized for networking with ecumenical, interreligious,P civil,Rev. etc. Anil Thanksgiving J.T.Couto was prayers held for womenRosary Juniorand communal School at harmony Narela, St. was 23rd. The participants displayed the Cathlab were adjudged First, by Nursing Service at 3 PM. After conducted by the Women Commission while atintensions St. Anthony’s of Tribals Shrine and on childrenTuesday, was broughtMary’s Senior out by Secondarysinging hymns School by and the the prayer, Fr George PA, inmates of Vinay Gurukul. Mr. A.C. Michael thewho 27th spearheaded December the2016, whole an historic programme St. with Mary’s the BoysYouth Hostel of the at Archdiocese Rohtak. Director, Holy Family thanked FCAAD and all the Commissions for enablingevent for the the thanksgiving Paharganj Parish. service. AppreciatingOrdained the as efforts Deacon of on the 21st Archdiocese, June Hospital, awarded prizes Archbishop Emeritus Vincent M. Concessao gaveFr. his Robert benediction was born followed on 07th by the melodious2014, carolhe did of his NECCOD. Diaconate Thanksgiving Ministry to the winners of various service ended with special prayers for a betterNovember and blessed 1978 New at YearMartalli 2021. and at St. Mathew’s Church, Laxmi competitions and felicitated belongs to Our Lady of Lourdes Nagar and Good Shepherd Church, each participant of the JEEVAN JYOTI ASHRAM Burari Church, Diocese of Mysore. Having Hauz Khas. Cultural Events. The Archbishop in his homily emphasized the completed his school studies from In July 2016 Fr. Robert was Sisters at Asha Bhawan importance of vocation and exhorted those St. Mary’s composite Junior College, appointed as Administrator of St. offered Adoration and 24present toHours follow the integrity Intercessory of priesthood studied Eucharistic his Graduation at St. AdorationAnthony’s Boys for Secondary a NewSchool Thanksgiving Prayers at the in its original form like Jesus Christ. he further Philomena’s College and completed and for diaconate ministry at St. Hospital Chapel from 8 to Pentecostadded, “Priests must be able to tell the people his B. Ed. from the University of Anthony’s Shrine, Paharganj. Fr. 9 PM. The New Year's Eve those in need the words of St. Peter, “Gold and Mysore. In 2001, He gained his Robert has chosen “Do Whatever He Celebrations commenced Georgesilver, i Davidhave Topponone, but i tell you in the name Masters in English Literature from tells you” (John 2:5) as his motto at 9.30 PM and carried on Jeevanof Jesus getJyoti up andAshram, walk.” Money, Burari power organized and a 24 hoursKarnataka of intercessory State Open Eucharistic University. adorationand ascommits intercessors himself from completely 31 countries with full enthusiasm and joinedpossession through have replaced zoom Christ. and our Jesus’ YouTube model channel inNurtured praying forby hisa new Parish Pentecost Priests on 2nd andto 3Lordrd January Jesus 2021.Christ It andwas becomean initiative an fervour till the Burning of of authoritythe Jericho is of service participants not of autonomy (those and who attendedwho our gave Online enough International opportunity Prophetic to Intercessioneffective instrument Training to Course serve fromHim as1st the Bogey Man at Midnight. todictatorship.” 15th of every month) based on a prophesy receivedserve in theby Mrs. church Rosemary and later George as from aUAE Priest during for the a prophetic Archdiocese intercession of Delhi. The New Year commenced session.The mass The was Eucharistic followed by Carolsadoration and was conductedyouth, in in English, 2006 Fr. Hindi, Robert Malayalam, discerned Malay Bahasa,Archdiocese French, of Delhi Spanish, Tswana, with Holy Mass at 6.30 AM Shona,introduction Sinhalese, of brothers. Luganda, Various interactive Chichewa and Swahilihis vocation language. and It joinedwas coordinated ‘Vinay by Mr.congratulates Pious Anthony Fr. from Robert UAE and and prayby Mrs. followed by the Annual Jancygames addedJhonson fun to from the gathering. New Delhi. Each It received started at 9Gurukul’, am (Indian the time) minor with Seminary an inaugural of massthat celebrated God bless by him Most abundantly Rev. Anil Couto, Lunch for the entire Staff ArchbishopChristmas gift fromof Delhi the Archbishop along with as Rt.well. Rev. This Francis Archdiocese Kalist, Bishop of of Delhi. Meerut In &the Episcopal year Advisorthat to he the may CCR remain in India, faithful Very Rev. to Msgr.his and all students, on 02nd Susaiwas followed Sebastian, by a delicious VG & Spiritual meal after directorwhich the to the DCSC2010, (Diocesanhe completed Charismatic his Philosophy Service of Communion)vocation. May and Fr. Rev. Robert Fr. Yeshudashan continue to January 2017, which was brothers dispersed to their respective places of from St. Pius College, Bombay. Did be sustained by His grace and may blessed with the presence ministry. his regency at Catholic Mission, his life in God’s service always be of His Grace, Rev Anil J.T. 30 The Voice of Delhi Nuh and completed his 4 years of filled with joy. Couto Archbishop of Delhi.

34 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 35 MMI, Asst. Spiritual Director of JJA at our newly blest sound proof studio in JJA. During these 24 hours the Blessed Sacrament was exposed in our studio as various team joined through zoom and youtube in order to intercede for a new Pentecost in the church and for the whole world. Exhortations were also given by His Eminence Cardinal Lars Anders Arborelius from Stockholm, Sweden, Most Rev. Anil Couto, Archbishop of Delhi, Most. Rev. Kuriakose Bharnikulangara, Archbishop of Faridabad, Rt. Rev. Francis Kalist, Bishop of Meerut & Episcopal Advisor to the CCR in India, Rt. Rev. Jacob Mar Barnabas, Bishop of Gurugram, Very Rev. Msgr. Susai Sebastian, VG & Spiritual Director of JJA and Mr. Cyril John, CHARIS International member. The adoration concluded with the benediction and the holy mass celebrated by Rt. Rev. Francis Kalist along with Rev. Fr. Yeshudashan MMI.

Monthly 2nd Friday Night Vigil George David Toppo

Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, Burari conducted its 2nd Friday monthly night vigil for the Hindi and Malayalam speaking community. The Hindi night vigil was live streamed on our youtube channel and hundreds attended the same. It included anointing adoration along with a reflection on the theme “Role of St. Joseph in the Holy Family” by Rev. Fr. Vincent Ekka SJ from Indian Social Institute, Lodhi Road, praise & worship session by JJA Hindi choir and a healing adoration led by Rev Fr. Bipin Ekka, parish priest of St. Monika’s Church, Burari. The Malayalam speaking community on the other hand conducted an intercessory night vigil that was live streamed on our Youtube Channel and facebook page. During this time, members of the Delhi Crusaders Team ie., the Intercession Ministry of the Delhi Charismatic Service of Communion sat before the blessed sacrament in Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, Burari and interceded for all the petitions being received through our various social media platforms. This intercessory malayalam night vigil was initiated after one of the intercessors received a message from the Lord during a 72 hours of intercessory adoration. Thousands of people joined through facebook and youtube in interceding for the church and the nation. Inauguration of a New Sound Proof Studio for Various Virtual Retreats and Programs George David Toppo

The members of the Delhi Charismatic Service of Communion (DCSC) felt the need of a sound proof studio in JJA due to an increase number of online programs during the unprecedented pandemic. After a long waiting, Very Rev. Msgr. Susai Sebastian, our VG and spiritual director of Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, blest and inaugurated the newly constructed sound proof studio in JJA on Friday 1st January. The studio will be used for various online modes of evangelisation through recordings, online night vigils, retreats and programs that will be conducted through various social media platforms.

February 2021 31 dioCesan digest fFEBebruaryRUARY 2021 2017 Jericho 2021 (Batch 7): A 15-Day Online International Prophetic Intercession Training CourseOrdination of Fr. Robert (ForChristmas Overseas Participant) George David Toppo Swamy conferred by The Holy Family TheGathering Delhi Charismatic Renewal Services organised a 15- day online international prophetic intercession training course for overseas participants from 1st to 15th January 2021. It was led by Rt. Rev. Francis Kalist, Bishop of Meerut and Episcopal Advisor to CHARIS India, and Mr. Cyril John, MostMember, CHARIS Rev. International. Anil This course J.T.Couto, was the 7th batch of Jericho 2021 thatfor focused Delhi on training anointed prophetic intercessors for the Church and the nation. It witnessed a total of 58 participants of Celebration! ◗ Baljeet K Arun from 10 countries, viz, Australia, Brunei Darussalam,Archbishop Canada, India, Malaysia, of Mauritius, Delhi Singapore, UAE, USA and UK. PracticalSeminarians workshops on Charisms and prophetic◗ Stanislaus intercession increased the vibrancy of the course as the participants were divided into different groups as per their countries and continents. On the evening of January 09, we had the live Eucharistic he very hectic commitments amazing talent in traditional and Second and Third respectively ◗ adoration Br Richard and Jose prayer for healing and baptism in the Holy Spirit (BHS) streamed from Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, Delhi that was led and problems of monstrous contemporary dances, singing and for the quality of Decorations. A by Rt. Rev. Francis Kalist, Mr. Cyril John & Mr. Ajin Joseph as the participant joined via zoom. The training course concluded T proportions, the crippling instrumental music, keeping the Special Prize was awarded to the with anold interactive and silver i have session none, butof thei tell participants you, with the speakers, where the participants got an opportunity to interact with effects of the sudden demonetization audience entertained. The Crib Maintenance Department who the“G resourcein the name and of share Jesus get their up andexperience. walk.” As a follow-up to this course, all the 58 trained prophetic intercessors have decided of old Currency Notes, failed to Competition was conducted on constructed the iconic Nativity Crib toThe meet Seminarians on every of the 3rd Archdiocese Saturday of Delhiof the had month along with those of the previous batches of Jericho 2020 and prophetically dampen our enthusiasm and efforts 22nd with Fr. Joseph and Fr. Jerry in front of our Main Entrance. The intercedea Christmas forgathering the Church on 27th December& the World. 2016 at to prepare for the eagerly awaited of the OCD and Fr. Ajit of the Delhi Nursing School and College organized St. Michael’s School, Gurgaon. The Seminarians Christmas Season 2016. Archdiocese as the judges for the a Vandana Christmas Prayer Service Monthlystudying in various seminaries: English Jalandhar, Worship & Healing Night Our Choir led by Fr. Sherin event. The Nursing Hostel won at the Auditorium at 3 PM on 24th, JancyRanchi, Johnson Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and Vinay Gurukul Thomas and Fr. Arockia Dass, sang the First Prize for the Outdoor which was followed by a High Tea. Theparticipated Delhi inCharismatic the gathering. Serviceholy Eucharist of Communion (DCSC) conducted its monthly Christmas Carols at the campus Category, followed by the Herbal Christmas Liturgy was conducted worshipoffered by &the healing his Grace night Archbishop for all Anil the J. English speaking community on 15th January from 21st and on the Hospital Floors Garden and the Linen and Laundry at the same venue from 10 PM on 2021T. Couto from and was9pm concelebrated to 10:30pm. by ItFr. isJohn our monthly English night vigil, an initiative of on Christmas Eve, spreading joy Departments. In the Indoor Category, Christmas Eve. Holy Mass was theMonteiro English and Fr. Delhi Jais A. Crusaders i.e., the intercession ministry of the DCSC. During and solace all around. A Cultural The Cathlab were awarded the First conducted at the Hospital Chapel at this time, the Blessed Sacrament was exposed in Jeevan Jyoti Ashram, Burari Programme was presented by the Position, followed by the Dialysis and 8.30 AM on Christmas Day. as the participants joined via zoom. The night vigilriestly began Ordination with the praise of Fr. Robertand Theology from Vidyajyoti College Doctors, Staff and Students at the Emergency Treatment Departments. On the last day of 2016, a worship led by the Maranatha Music Ministry fromSwamy, Dwarka conferred followed by by Most a talk of Theology, Delhi. He served in Auditorium from 3 to 5 PM on The Second Floor, Third Floor and Thanksgiving Prayer was organized given by Rt. Rev. Francis Kalist, Bishop of MeerutPRev. & Episcopal Anil J.T.Couto Advisor was to held the Rosary Junior School at Narela, St. 23rd. The participants displayed the Cathlab were adjudged First, by Nursing Service at 3 PM. After CCR in India. Testimonies were shared by Mrs.at St.Neeba Anthony’s Lowang Shrine from onArunachal Tuesday, Mary’s Senior Secondary School and the prayer, Fr George PA, Pradesh & Mrs. Fatima Gabriel from Dwarka. theAfter 27th which, December a healing 2016, service an historic was St. Mary’s Boys Hostel at Rohtak. Director, Holy Family led by Mr. Cyril John & Mr. Ajin Joseph. Worshipevent & forHealing the Paharganj night was Parish. attended Ordained as Deacon on 21st June Hospital, awarded prizes by various participants from all across the globeFr. through Robert waszoom, born YouTube on 07th and 2014, he did his Diaconate Ministry to the winners of various our Facebook page as the night vigil was alsoNovember streamed 1978live on at allMartalli social andmedia at St. Mathew’s Church, Laxmi competitions and felicitated platforms. belongs to Our Lady of Lourdes Nagar and Good Shepherd Church, each participant of the Church, Diocese of Mysore. Having Hauz Khas. Cultural Events. The WeeklyArchbishop in his English homily emphasized Delhi the Crusaderscompleted his school Online studies from Prophetic In July 2016 Intercession Fr. Robert was Sisters at Asha Bhawan Jancyimportance Johnson of vocation and exhorted those St. Mary’s composite Junior College, appointed as Administrator of St. offered Adoration and present to follow the integrity of priesthood studied his Graduation at St. Anthony’s Boys Secondary School Thanksgiving Prayers at the The English wing of the Delhi Crusaders i.e., the intercession ministry of the Delhi Charismatic Service of Communion in its original form like Jesus Christ. he further Philomena’s College and completed and for diaconate ministry at St. Hospital Chapel from 8 to (DCSC) has been conducting an online prophetic intercession via zoom in English language every week on Thursday at 6pm added, “Priests must be able to tell the people his B. Ed. from the University of Anthony’s Shrine, Paharganj. Fr. 9 PM. The New Year's Eve since September 2020. Prophetic Intercessors from different parts of the country & world join together during this time in those in need the words of St. Peter, “Gold and Mysore. In 2001, He gained his Robert has chosen “Do Whatever He Celebrations commenced order to intercede for the church and the world under the leadership of Mrs. Jancy Johnson, coordinator of the English wing silver, i have none, but i tell you in the name Masters in English Literature from tells you” (John 2:5) as his motto at 9.30 PM and carried on of the Delhi Crusaders. Every week 40 to 45 intercessors join and follow the 6 Steps of the Prophetic Intercession that are of Jesus get up and walk.” Money, power and Karnataka State Open University. and commits himself completely with full enthusiasm and as follows: possession have replaced Christ. Jesus’ model Nurtured by his Parish Priests to Lord Jesus Christ and become an fervour till the Burning of 1) Empty our plans and place ourselves at the Lord’s disposal of authority is of service not of autonomy and who gave enough opportunity to effective instrument to serve Him as the Bogey Man at Midnight. 2) Seek the Lord’s plan – What to pray for? dictatorship.” serve in the church and later as a Priest for the Archdiocese of Delhi. The New Year commenced 3) Seek the Lord’s strategy: How to pray? The mass was followed by Carols and youth, in 2006 Fr. Robert discerned Archdiocese of Delhi with Holy Mass at 6.30 AM 4) Time of practical intercession as per messages received introduction of brothers. Various interactive his vocation and joined ‘Vinay congratulates Fr. Robert and pray followed by the Annual 5) Time to listen to the Lord and share the message in the group games added fun to the gathering. Each received Gurukul’, the minor Seminary of that God bless him abundantly Lunch for the entire Staff 6) Time to thank the Lord Christmas gift from the Archbishop as well. This Archdiocese of Delhi. In the year that he may remain faithful to his and all students, on 02nd wasIt is followed indeed by beautiful a delicious yet meal a afterpowerful which thetime spent2010, together he completed listening his to thePhilosophy Holy Spirit throughvocation. various May Fr.Charisms Robert andcontinue praying to January 2017, which was brothersfor the dispersedwhole church to their andrespective for the places world of in & throughfrom St. the Pius power College, of the Bombay. Holy Spirit. Did be sustained by His grace and may blessed with the presence ministry. his regency at Catholic Mission, his life in God’s service always be of His Grace, Rev Anil J.T. 32 The Voice of Delhi Nuh and completed his 4 years of filled with joy. Couto Archbishop of Delhi.

34 The Voice of Delhi february 2017 35 National

InFRASTRUCTURE HOW TO REACH BETHANIA TRAINING CENTRE • 1 hall (seating capacity: 40) Bethania is situated in NIT-5, Faridabad - NCR of Del- • 1 board room (capacity: 15) hi. Our centre lies 33 Kilo metres from New Delhi into Mathura Road, between the Commissioner’s Residence • 2 classrooms and K.L. Mehta Women’s College, on Faridabad-Gurgaon A NATIONAL TrAININg CeNTre • Chapel (prayer room) Highway (NH5). It is about 2.3Km from the Faridabad Of The ArChDIOCeSe Of DeLhI • Guest rooms (2 bedded) Railway Station and about 40Km from the Delhi Interna- CUrreNTLY mANAgeD bY The tional Airport. • Dormitories (5 bedded) CCbI NATIONAL YOUTh COmmISSION • Lawns, open area for events/ activities etc. There are also pre-paid taxis available from the Railway OfferINg prOgrAmmeS IN • Spaces available for programmes, gatherings Station & airport, as well as Ola & Uber Cab services; COmpUTerS, SOfT-SKILLS For pre-paid auto-rickshaws/cabs, ask for NIT-5 Farida- & meetings LeADerShIp, h UmAN reSOUrCe SKILLS • Accommodation available bad (K.L. Mehta College or Commissioner’s residence is the land mark). You can also find us on Google Maps by & ON-gOINg fOrmATION. • Parking space available searching ‘Bethania Centre’.

GOOGLE MAP

Bethania Centre

ANNUAL PLAN 2021 COnTACT A2, Central Green, NIT-5, Faridabad – 121001 NH-5, Haryana - India E-mail: [email protected] Contact: 7982960240 BETHANIA Mr. Percival Holt : 9971148556 A-2, CENTRAL GREEN, FARIDABAD Tel: + 91 7982960240 E-mail: [email protected]

ABOUT BETHAnIA CLASSES PROGRAMMES 1. Coaching classes for school Bethania Training Centre is a students. All subjects, by 1. Mentorship Training vocational learning centre which teaching professionals. Programme for School (Classes 1-10) conducts short term courses Teachers (monthly) routinely, residential and online, 2. Soft skills/ career grooming for 2. Life skills & Career guidance focused on skill development. It offers those seeking jobs & preparing for for students & Schools a homely and conducive learning atmosphere. interviews. (Small batches, weekly) (monthly) 3. 1 day Recollection for youth (Second Saturday) Bethania is also partnering with various institutions 3. Dance Classes by The DanceworX Company & organizations that provide training & skill Form: JAZZ FUNK & more (8 classes/ month) 4. 1 day Recollection for students & children (Third Saturday) development. 4. Musical Instruments - Keyboard & Guitar 5. 1 day recollection for adults (Fourth Saturday) (8 classes/ month) 6. YouCat (Youth Catechesis) – Every 4th Sunday 5. Art/Painting Classes (evening & weekend 4:00pm to 6:00pm batches) 7. Counselling (psychological) on request, by  Professional coaches. Nominal charges. professionals. We also provide our infrastructure For details contact the office. on hire for meetings, seminars, COURSES events, residential programmes etc, 1. Youth Ministry Crash Course - 7 days on nominal charges. (March & September) 2. Youth Spirituality - 3 days (April & August) 3. Pastoral Youth Ministry - 3 days (July & November) Volunteer/ intern with us 4. Leadership Training - 5 days (For catholic young people & ICYM/ (March & October) YCS leaders) - flexible duration 5. YouCat Missionary Formation - 3-5 days (April & November) 6. Computer classes (Basics, Internet, MS Office Missionary experience programme (word, excel, power point), Basic Graphic Designing for seminarians, novices & youth (Photoshop, InDesign, CorelDraw), Page setting & DTP - batches on weekends & holidays (minimum 7 days)

 Accommodation available for outstation participants.  We can also organize special batches & similar programmes on other Themes/ subjects for a group of minimum 10 people. To plan and book your slots kindly contact our office.

February 2021 33 Northern and Agra Regional Collaboration CONSORTIUM

'CONSORTIUM’ as the word depicts refers to agroup of people or firms who have agreed to co-operate with each other and work for a common goal. For thevery first time, two Regions, ICYM Agra Region andICYM Northern Region came together and collaboratedfor an extravagant collaboration named, ‘Consortium’. The objectives taken up by the Regions through thisevent were: • Developing Spirit of oneness. • Sharing of thoughts and ideas and learning fromeach other. • A bigger platform to showcase young talent. • Informative/Spiritual/Nurturing and thusleading the youth towards an Holistic growth. Both the Regions planned up for an event during thisChristmas time, named ‘KALA CHRISTOUGENNA’ meaning Merry Christmas from 6th to 16th December,2020. After weeks of preparation and discussion with therespective Regional Youth Directors and Regional Youth Lady Animator, the following events and competitions we’re planned for KALACHRISTOUGENNA: • Inauguration Ceremony followed by a Webinar on the topic – Life as You Know it by Ajin Joseph, National Youth Coordinator of Youth United for Christ ( YU4C). • Spiritual Meet, the main celebrant was Fr. Chetan Machado ,National Youth Director of Indian Catholic Youth Movement, ICYM where he gave a message on the theme R3 – Regret ,Reconcile and Rejoice . • Solo Competitions: Crib and Christmas Card Making • Duet Competition: The BigPicture • Group Competition: Carol Singing • Live competition: Articulation • Closing Ceremony • Declaration of Results All the participants were asked to register themselvesthrough a Google form till 4th December,2020. All the Dioceses of both the regions participated in each event withfull zeal and enthusiasm. The event was commenced with an Inauguration Ceremony on 6th December, 2020 in the eminent presence of Most Rev. Ivan Albert

34 The Voice of Delhi Pereira, Chairman of Youth Commission of Northern Region and Most Rev. Oswald J Lewis,Regional Chairman of the Agra Youth Commission. The event started with the Lighting of the Lampfollowed by the message for Youth by Most Rev. Oswald Lewis. Kala Christougenna was declared open by Most Rev. Ivan Albert Pereira in the presence of the office bearers and RYDs of both Regions. There were in total 15 Judges, three for each competition who joined us for this initative from the different parts of the country. There was a good number of participation and one can see the hardwork and dedication that the young people have put in to make this event successful .All the participation videos were posted on the official youtube channels of both the regions . The celebration came to an end by organizing a closing ceremony on December 20, 2020 where the report of the collaboration was read by both the Regional Joint Secretaries ,the journey video was presented and the final vote of thanks was given . The declaration of Kala Christougenna is closed was done by Most Rev. Ivan Albert Pereira . The Results were revealed in the second week of January 2021. It was a proud moment and a blessed time wherein we celebrated the joy of Christmas during this pandemic in the best way possible.

February 2021 35 Sow Faith, Grow Hope, Reap Love

“And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” ( 2 Corinthians 1:21-22)

The highly anticipated Official Regional Logo of the Youth Commission of Northern Region was unveiled recently. A Regional Logo Making Competition was organized by ICYM Northern Region and the following were the winners whom the ideas are merged to form the Northern Region Youth Commission Logo :

• Mr. Andrew from Jammu-Srinagar Diocese • Ms. Aarti Kumari from Simla Chandigarh Diocese • Ms. Angela Tunias from Archdiocese of Delhi

With the collaborative suggestions of the Northern Region Youth Committee ,the Regional Youth Director Rev. Fr. Powlish Maria designed it and the Advisor cum National Youth Media Secretary, Mr. Saurav Kullu did the final digitalization of the Logo.

The Logo shows the power of unity of the Northern Region as it’s based on the theme, ONE IN CHRIST. Northern Region is combined of four diocese and therefore the 4 color represents each of them .

Red represents Jammu-Srinagar Diocese, Jalandhar Diocese is denoted by Green, Blue portrays Delhi Archdiocese and Shimla-Chandigarh Diocese by Yellow.

Dove is the symbol of peace; here the two doves are placed in the form of hands, one at the bottom of the map and the other one above the Crucifix. Both hands exhibit that we the YOUTH are the foundation and the Crown of the Church . The Crucifix is stationed in the Centre which defines that Christ is our gravity, which gives us strength and hope.

Each human representing a respective color also has a torch of burning fire. As Jesus says, “I am the way , the truth and the life.”, hence we follow His light and spread it to others who are astray.

We also have a beautiful slogan for the Logo depicting the three best virtues: Love, Hope and Faith that reads- Sow Faith, Grow Hope, Reap Love.

It was a blissful occasion on the New Year, 1st January, 2021 when Most Rev. Ivan Periera, Chairman of Northern Region Youth Commission officially inaugurated the Logo which was accompanied with a brief explanation of all the elements of the Logo by Rev. Fr. Powlishand was broadcasted on our official YouTube Channel. It is indeed a proud and joyful moment for each youth of the Northern Region!

36 The Voice of Delhi ANNIVERSARIES 15TH FEBRUARY 2021 TO 15TH MARCH 2021 Pastoral Clergy

BIRTHDAY Death Anniversaries February February 19 Elias Dung Dung (1958) Fr. Samuel Williams 16-02-2010 March Rev. Fr. Lal Joseph 22-02-2017 1 Sukhdev Tirkey (1982) 6 Shinil Jacob (1980) March 9 James Peter Raj (1977) Fr. Joseph Mary Fernandes 05-03-1998 10 Anthaiah Pudota (1979) Fr. Jeremias J. D. Prabhu 11-03-1987 Fr. Beschi D’ Almeida 12-03-2016 ORDINATIONS Fr. Jorge L. D’Souza 15-03-1988 March 11 + Anil Couto (Ep.Or. 2001)

Calendar of Feasts FEBRUARY 2021

1 Saint Brigid of Ireland 17 Blessed Luke Belludi 2 Presentation of the Lord 18 Blessed John of Fiesole 3 Saint Blase 19 Saint Conrad of Piacenza 4 Saint Joan of Valois 20 Blesseds Jacinta and Francisco Marto 5 Saint Agatha 21 Saint Peter Damian 6 Saint Paul Miki and Companions 22 Chair of Saint Peter 7 Saint Colette 23 Saint Polycarp 8 Saint Jerome Emiliani 24 Saint John Theristus 9 Saint Apollonia 25 Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio 10 Saint Scholastica 26 Saint Porphyry of Gaza 11 Saint Gregory II 27 Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows 12 Saint Buonfiglio Monaldo 28 Saint Oswald 13 Saint Catherine de Ricci 14 Saints Cyril and Methodius 15 Saint Claude la Colombiere 16 Saint Daniel

February 2021 37 MIRACULOUS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, You who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideal, You who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and You who are in all instances of my life with me, I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and affirm once more that I never want to be separated from You, no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved once in Your perpetual glory. Amen.

This prayer should be said for 3 consecutive days without saying your wish or intension. After the 3rd day, your sincere wish will be granted no matter how difficult it may be. Promise to offer thanksgiving by sharing it and expressing it on granting of your favour. The idea is to spread the wonder of the Holy Spirit.

(Please do not post entire prayer in comments section. Thanksgiving, intentions & testimonies only)

Antoinette D’ Souza

SOULMATE

arents seeking alliance for a male Doctor aged 28 years, 6’ height Post Graduated from P.G.I, Chandigarh. PPresently working at P. G.I, Chandigarh and prefer lady Doctor. Please contact: 9866508592, Email: [email protected]

lliance invited for Delhi based Malayalee RC girl, 28 years, 5’1”. Completed BA (Hons.) from Jesus and Mary ACollege, Delhi and presently working as Personal Assistant in Central Govt. office, Delhi. Proposals are invited from Malayalee Roman Catholic boys. Contact: 9868318948, 8130277098(WhatsApp No.).

arents seeking alliance for their daughter, Roman Catholic Tamilian girl aged 29 years; Born and brought-up in PDelhi. Completed Masters degree and working in well reputed international organization. Proposal invited from suitable, well-educated R.C. boys in Delhi NCR preferably south Indian. Contact: 9711397639.

arents seeking alliance for their son, R.C boy, 36 years, 5’5”, graduated from Delhi University. Presently working Pin airline ticketing in a private company. Please contact: 9873323766, 8826885980.

38 The Voice of Delhi February 2021 39 Printed and published by Fr. Januario Rebello on behalf of Delhi Catholic Archdiocese and Printed at Bosco Society for Printing & RNI Cft. No. DELENG/2007/19942 Graphic Training, New Delhi 110025 and Published by Delhi Catholic Archdiocese, 1 Ashok Place, New Delhi 110001. Editor: Fr. Stanley DL (ND)-11/6125/2019-20-21 Kozhichira E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.archdiocesedelhi.org, Facebook: Voiceofdelhi Archdiocese Delhi DOP 9th & 10th

Congratulations on Your

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Editor and Team, The Voice of Delhi

40 The Voice of Delhi