Sharing: August - October 2017 1 Sharing: August - October 2017 2 Message from the Shepherd

Dear Friends, Greetings and prayers. First of all I thank you all for upholding the diocese and me in your daily prayers. I thank you very specially for the prayers and support during my visit to USA. As you know well, I had gone to US for the annual mission appeal, or Mission Co-operation Program (MCP). It is one way of sharing the mission mandate of Jesus. At the request of the mission diocese, the host dioceses in US assign one or two parishes to do mission appeal during the week-end masses. A second collection is made for the mission diocese, which the parish sends to their diocese and the diocese in turn send the amount collected to the mission diocese after deducting their administrative cost. Moving to different parishes in different dioceses in a large country like US and finding a place to stay during the week days are not easy. It is very tiring and expensive too unless one has some people to host and provide transportation. I feel lucky since many cities in US I have relations and friends who are most willing and happy to provide me accommodation and transportation. This year during my stay in US, two important states and the whole of Caribbean islands were struck with strong and destructives hurricane (Harvey in Texas and Irma in Florida). My travels were not really affected since I had no program in those states except the fact that I had to cancel and rescheduled two flights. What surprised me was the way the whole state and the country prepare to face such national disasters beginning from the first warning, evacuation, giving shelters and providing amenities and rebuilding. People are very generous in helping each other to rebuild the city and home. No one is left to fend for oneself. It is a great lesson of human solidarity and patriotism. This year we are saddened with the sudden demise of Rev. Fr. Mathew Keemattam on 20th September 2017. My biggest regret is that despite all efforts I could not reach for the funeral. I take this opportunity to express to my gratitude to all who have extended their helping hands during the times of the great loss. With much love and thankfulness I acknowledge Fr. Mathew as a person charged with zeal for souls and with absolute commitment to his work and mission. He was a mentor and a guide who associated with the young and old. Let us continue to pray him. I thank all our Fathers, Sisters and Laity who planned and organised the funeral so well. This year we also lost a number of our Catholic leaders and members in different parishes. Let us keep them all in our prayers, especially as we approach and live the month of November, a month dedicated to remember and pray for those who have preceded us in death. When it comes to matters of life, we must pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We are now in the month of October, a month dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary. Let us use the prayer of Rosary as our weapon to win over the spiritual and physical enemies of our life. This year we have also began the popular devotion of novena to Mary, the mother of Perpetual help. Popular devotions help us to strengthen our Catholic faith and confidence in the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother and all the Saints. Pope Francis has released his message for World Mission Sunday, focusing on the need to gather round the person of Jesus and to heed his call to “proclaim the Gospel of the love of God the Father in the Power of the Holy Spirit. He also emphasised the Church’s role as being “missionary in nature” and that the “young people are the hope of mission.” We as a missionary church let us come forward with cognizant of the example of our own actions. Embracing the qualities of courtesy, kindness, listening and patience throughout our day at work or at home are gifts that have no material cost, yet can be priceless in our relationships. May we also become true missionaries in actions as the fruit of our prayer and faith. Bishop James Thoppil Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland Sharing: August - October 2017 3 Editor’s Note... Dear Readers, Greetings from Sharing! The sunsets from the East to West this designates the mighty cosmic supremacy of God in creation. The monsoon ends, the Sun shines brightly, the flora and fauna welcomes the newcomers and we see the season of Harvest dawning. The yellow field gives hope and satisfaction to the farmers who toiled. It has undergone a serious of process to attain this stage. In the past three months we have experienced the knots of happenings some are favourable and unfavourable in the world in general and in our state in particular. We have celebrated series of feast days of the Saints which are remainders of God’s graciousness and love for us. The church has bestowed on us the privilege to honour our Blessed mother in this Month Rosary. Let us foster our love for our heavenly mother. It is said that life experience in the best teacher.Thus, life is to lead innovatively focusing to the full extensively. Every person is unique. He or she has irreplaceable gift of talents showered by God. Robin Sharma writing on “Cure Your Monkey Mind” says “to get the best from life, you must be completely present and mindful in every minute of every hour of every day.” Our journey of life is doing one thing at a time. It calls for much dedication, that is, to live as true person being “HUMANE”. St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, the patroness of missionaries, whose feast we celebrated on the 1st October has her, “Little Way”. She embraced God’s mercy and lived as a weak and defenseless creature. She said, “What pleases God is that he sees me loving my littleness and my (inner) poverty, the blind hope that I have in his mercy.” By doing so she became a missionary by praying for the missionaries. The world Mission Sunday is on 22nd October wherein Pope Francis exhorts us in his Mission Sunday message, “This Day invites us to reflect anew on the mission at the heart of the Christian faith. The Church is missionary by nature; otherwise, she would no longer be the Church of Christ, but one group among many others that soon end up serving their purpose and passing away.” We as faithful followers of Christ let us materialize the words of Jesus “The way” (cf. Jn 14:6) who lived His life for the Mission of His Almighty Father by following the Way, as the early Christians in the Acts of the Apostles. May we respond to God’s Mission the Truth and life by answering the question “O Where are the Reapers?” This is possible by being Honest, Authentic, and Integrated and Loving Human being. Newness brings hope in life. It brings a new chapter of life. 1st November is All Saints’ Day. It is a solemn holy day of the Catholic Church celebrated annually. May the Saints, intercede for us that we may grow towards holiness of life. All Souls Day is a holy day set aside for honoring the dead. The month of November is a specially set aside in the Church to pray for the repose Soul. Let us remember all the departed souls practice foster our zeal of living a life in the best Let our life reflect with an inspiration from St. Charles Borromeo who once said, “Be sure that you first preach by the way you live. If you do not, people will notice that you say one thing, but live otherwise, and your words will bring only cynical laughter and a derisive shake of the head”. Let us continue to intercede from our blessed mother in the Holy month of Rosary so that we become the missionaries with our lives example and thoughts like our Heavenly Mother. - Fr. Victor Renthungo Sharing: August - October 2017 4 CHIEF EDITOR BISHOP’S PROGRAMME Fr. Victor Renthungo October 2017 - January 2018 Ph.No. 09485210215

October 2017 Chumukedima, Blessing of Selophe Church: EDITORIAL BOARD 16-18 Kohima Mass for CRI Dimapur unit Fr. Richard Fernandes 19 To Dimapur in the evening (CMC Provincial House, 6.00 pm) Fr. Lawrence Khing 20-21 Tura Sr. Kaisa Rosalind CMC 27-30 Dubai 22-23 Shillong (Oriens) 24-27 Kohima December 2017 MANAGEMENT STAFF 28 Medziphema: FCC Profession 01-07 Dubai Catholic Publication Centre cum blessing of the Novitiate (CPC) 08 Kohima: Feast of the GB meeting of HRHC Immaculate Conception 29 Kohima: NCYM Quiz 09 Kohima PUBLISHER 30 Visit to Jalukie 10 Tenyzumi: Jubilee Celebration Diocese of Kohima 31 Tseminyu, Tesophenyu, 11 Dimapur: Senate meeting (5.30 Longsa - Mokokchung pm – BHD) COVER & LAYOUT November 2017 12 Dimapur: Priests meeting (9.00 Flora Kent am); Recollection (5.30 pm) 01 Feast of All Saints: 13 Dimapur: Consulters meeting Mokokchung-Aghunato- (BHD) CONTENTS Seyochung-Pungro 14 Kohima: . Local News 02 All Souls Day: Pungro, Phüvkiu, 15-16 Kohima: Jotsoma golden . Articles Kiphire -Shamator Jubilee . Regional News 03 Shamator, Kiphire, Meluri, Phek 17-18 Kohima . World Catholic News 04 Phek-Chizami-Razeba-Kohima 19-20 Seyochung: Women Jubilee . News in Pictures 05 Kohima: Kigwema Jubilee 21 Razeba: Jubilee of Tsupfume 06-10 Kohima 22-24 Kohima 11 Dimapur: GB NEISSR SHARING 25 Kohima: Christmas 12 Chumukedima: Jubilee of Diocese of Kohima 26-27 Kohima Bishop’s House Diezephe Church 28 Tesophenyu: Jubilee cum Post Box No, 519 12-17 Retreat Priestly Ordination Kohima - India 18 Dimapur: Official Inauguration 29 Kohima: Priestly ordination [email protected] of St. Joseph University; 30-31 Razeba: Youth Jubilee email:[email protected] Death Anniversary of Bp. www.kohimadiocese.org Abraham Alangimattathil, SDB January 2018 GB DAN 2.30 pm; The Sharing is published 01-03 Kohima GSS 5.00 pm; Bp. Abraham 04 Dimapur : Deacon Sherman quarterly by the Diocese memorial lecture of Kohima. All the News, Kuek arrives – Kohima: Talk Articles, questions, 19 Tamlu, Longleng 05-09 Tobu- NCYM Convention reader-reactions etc are to 20 Mokochung, Mangolemba, 10-11 Akhaito Church blessing and be addressed to the editor. Dimapur Sumi convention Your articles, news item 21 Kohima 12-19 Kerala-Medical Check up could be submitted through 22 Khonoma: Church blessing at 20 Kohima CD, pendrive and mail Dzüleke 21 Kohima: ACYM Convention attachment. Please include 23-24 Kohima your name and mailing 22-26 Kohima address. 25 Jakhama: GB meeting (9.00 27-28 Trongar: Jubilee am) FC Meeting (2.00 pm: BHK) 29-30 Tuensang-Mokokchung (For private circulation only) 26 Feast of Christ the King: 31 To Bangalore - CBCI meeting Sharing: August - October 2017 5 NEWS - Diocese Graduation Day cum Fresher’s Day at of the program refreshment was served for all and grand meal was hosted for the chief guest St. Xavier College and the invitees. This programme came to an end with the college anthem. - Ms. Flora

Naiba Lauds Catholics for Contribution in Education

JALUKIE: Lt. Col. Rajiv Kalita second-In- Command, Sena Medal, 36 AR Jalukie post, graced the Graduation Cum Fresher’s Day as the Chief Guest at St. Xavier College Auditorium, Jalukie on 10th June, 2017. Rev. Fr. Papusamy, principal accorded a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and all those gathered for the program. He mentioned in his welcome address that this institution was TOBU: Advisor for Geology & Mining, NBDA, proud to witness many boys and girls acquiring NEPED, Naiba Konyak has lauded Catholic graduation degree and wished them to be community for their immense contribution in the successful persons for the future society. Lt. field of education in Nagaland. Col. Rajiv Kalita in his speech wished and Inaugurating the newly built primary congratulated all the Graduates and extended section of the Newman Higher Secondary School sincere appreciation to the Principal, Staff and (NMHSS), Tobu on Saturday, Naiba Konyak also managing board of the college for imparting appreciated the Diocese of Kohima under the quality education. He further encouraged the leadership of Bishop James Thoppil, for the many students to explore their talents, gifts and utilize ventures in the field of education and social the same to their benefit and wishes them empowerment. blessing and luck in their endeavour. He also He said in education “learning is never- motivated the students that there are ample ending because knowledge is endless” and opportunities available in the field of Army. added that there was so much to learn in life Besides, he greeted the freshers urging them that it was virtually impossible to ever finish one’s to march forward with commitment. The chief education entirely. Guest also conferred various prizes and Being a product of the Catholic school, certificates to the graduates on various Naiba appreciated fathers, sisters, the advisory achievements including highest scorer, best board, the Catholic community for the magnificent graduate of the year and to all the graduates. school building successfully completed. Luningzuele, the highest scorer and the 11th rank Naiba specially thanked Fr. Sivi George, holder in the University from the Department of principal, NMHSS, Tobu and his team for the Sociology spoke on behalf of the Graduates. developmental works done at Tobu. Then, Mr. Kevipele, governing board Blessing the new building, secretary, member of the college also addressed the CEDOK, Nagaland, Rev. Fr. Dr. Jacob Charalel, students on the occasion and inspired them with said that the little help given to the Catholic his personal experiences. The staff and students Church was never a waste as the Church returns arranged a variety of cultural programs to mark the same for the development of the community this occasion as a memorable one. At the end in multiple folds. Sharing: August - October 2017 6 NEWS - Diocese BDO, Tobu, W. MobaKonyak, also with the Father’s Day celebration. Rev. Fr. applauded the priests and sisters for the Johnny explained the significance, the belief in committed service rendered to the people with the body and blood of Jesus Christ’s real no distinction of religion or cast. He urged the presence in the Eucharist. He said that Christian people to collaborate with the institution because life should be nourished with the reception of the school was for the development of the people the Holy Eucharist, word of God and prayers. and of the area. He exhorted the congregation that many may Others who attended the programme experience Jesus in the daily encounter with were W. MobaKonyak, BDO, Tobu, Zibenthung others and more particularly in the celebration Kithan ADC, Tobu, S. Nyakba Konyak, ex-MLA, of the Holy Eucharist. Felicitation songs were Tobu, S.B. Poangba president KU (B) Tobu and performed by the mothers association while his colleagues, village council representatives youth and catechism children of Cathedral parish from all villages under Tobu sub-division, women expressed gratitude to the fathers. Over hundred association leaders of Tobu town and village, fathers joined the celebration. The fathers were DBs and GBs of Tobu, student leaders and presented gifts. - Correspondent various NGOs, priests and sisters from nearby parishes, the village chairman and village leaders Father’s Day celebrated at Kidima Parish of Tobu, parents and dignitaries and other invited KIDIMA: Father’s Day was celebrated at guests. St. Xavier’s Catholic Church Kidima (SXCCK) Rev. Fr. Sivi George, Principal, Newman with Director of Eden Garden, Children Home, HSS, Tobu gave the welcome address and vote Khuzama Rev. Fr. Raymond D’Souza at church of thanks was delivered by Changku A. Welcome premises. song, prayer dance, chorography and action In his message, Rev. Fr. Raymond said songs were the special items presented by the the church was celebrating the body and blood students. - Fr. Joseph Kath of Jesus feast which nourishes and gives new Father’s Day celebrated at Cathedral life. He appealed the fathers to love and care for their children and family. Parish Rev. Fr. Raymond also asked the children to respect, obey, love, pray and support their parents and thus make God happy. He also urged the large congregation to give peace, joy and love to the children as God would provide the necessities of life. Chanting of praise and glory to the Lord, confession, and Eucharist celebration were highlights of the day. Special song was sung by VivotsoleRufina and friends. Felicitation to fathers was presented by Kidima Catholic Youth KOHIMA: Father’s Day was celebrated at Mary Association. Franciscan Sisters of Saint Mary Help of Christian Church, Cathedral Parish, of the Angels (FSMA), children and youth also Kohima with Rev. Fr. Johnny Padinjareporiyath, joined in the programme. - Correspondent the outgoing assistant parish priest, as the main celebrant for the Holy Mass during which special prayers were offered for all fathers. In his message, Rev. Fr. Johnny thanked and assured prayers to all the fathers. He referred the liturgical feast of Corpse Christi, (the body and blood of Jesus) which coincided Sharing: August - October 2017 7 NEWS - Diocese Catechists’ Retreat corrects the community against the false teachings which divided the group of people because of self-interest of some members in the community. We must be powerful agents of unity in our community; in the process we may have given up our own interest. After the mass Mr. Samuel acknowledged and thanked the Bishop, Fr. George Antony,Fr.Jaison Thomas, Sr. Rosy, Sisters and staff of Mount Tabor and his own companions-the catechists for their contribution in making the retreat fruitful. - Sr. Rosy UFS KOHIMA:The Catechists’ Retreat was organized Bishop’s Pastoral Visit at Wokha from 20th to 23rd June 2017 at Mount Tabor Retreat House, Kohima. Rev. Fr. George Antony, vice- principal of St. Joseph College, Jakhama preached and guided the retreat. There were 65 responsive and responsible Catechists from different parishes. They enthusiastically gained spiritual strength during the retreat. The preacher led them through various reflective themes which enabled them to pray. The immediate fruit of the retreat culminated with the sacrament of Reconciliation. Most. Rev. Franko, Bishop of Jhalandar exhorted our Catechists on 22nd June. He encouraged them with these words; ‘the WOKHA: Bishop made his second pastoral visit catechists’ who do a lot of work at grass root to St. Paul Parish, Wokha from 24th to 26th level are the backbone in the diocese. The growth June, 2017. During the visit Bishop appreciated of the diocese depends on the commitment of the Salesian Fathers and Salesian Sisters for the Catechists who do the Lord’s work, inspite the tremendous work they do in the mission. of our own challenges in spreading the message Bishop in his homily exhorted the 7 of Christ. After which Bishop James Thoppil, sacraments in the Catholic Church and said that Bishop of Kohima, met the catechists and said; “A sacrament is a visible sign, instituted by Christ, ‘You are the leading force and face of the church. to give grace.” Within this definition there are The faith of the community depends on your faith, three important statements: in summary a so trust in God as you take up your mission and sacrament is one of the means God has chosen continue it’. to influence our life in the direction of his purpose During the general session with Bishop for giving us life. Bishop urged the community to James, the catechists expressed some of their know the important of Sacraments and live in quarries. It was suggested; to have the our life. Catechists retreat in the 4th week of July and it Bishop also exhorted the student of was agreed upon. Summer Bible and Music Camp, at St. Paul’s After the session Bishop concelebrated Parish, Wokha. Bishop in his address said that the Mass at 7.15 p.m. In his homily, he referred ‘The Eucharist is the sacrament in which the Corinthian community which was established Catholics receive the Body and Blood of Jesus by Paul. He said that Paul was burning with love Christ. For Catholics, this is the most treasured for the community, yet at the same time he gift given to the Church by the Lord at the Last Supper. Therefore Bishop appeal children to be Sharing: August - October 2017 8 NEWS - Diocese more close in attending the Holy Mass and be Prayer of praise, Prayer of petition and Prayer nourished by the Lord. of intercession. Bishop, while, meeting with the Parish Speaking on ‘Mission in the church,’ Rev. Pastoral Council Members and Community Fr. Gideon SJ, expounded on the word “mission” requested them to collaborate with fathers and means being “sent.” He said the church is “sent sisters as they have dedicated their lives to serve into the world to continue the works of Jesus for our people and they do all this services for Christ.” He listed the works of Jesus Christ such the love of God. Bishop also visited the as preaching, teaching, healing, and acts of Community of St. Peter’s Church, Rephyim, St. charity and justice. Thomas Church, Doyang and had celebrated Rev. Fr. Patrick Neikhalo, parish priest the Holy Eucharist. Bishop administered the of Sacred Heart Church, Chizami, was the main Sacrament of Confirmation to 20 people and 20 celebrant of the Holy Mass on June 24. In his children received First Holy Communion. homily, Fr. Patrick enlightened the boys and girls - Fr. Thomas Toretkiu to answer the call of God. He exhorted the gathering comparing with the birth of John the First Phase of Diocesan Vocation Baptist and Jesus Christ as the response to the Camp Held “Humble” call of God. Rev. Fr. Matilda UFC, while addressing on ‘Vocation to holiness’ said that there is the divinity of God within a person since human being is made in the image and likeness of God. Rev. Fr. Benjamin Chang spoke on ‘A consecrated life brings joy to the family.’ He said that worldly things and its attractions are short MELURI: A three-day diocesan vocation camp lived and will perish sooner or later but doing was held at St. Xavier’s Parish, Meluri, from God’s will bring true happiness and joy to all. June 23 – 25. The camp was organised for Rev. Fr. Jose Lukose, parish priest of St. Xavier, students from Classes VII to XII comprising both Meluri, in his homily said Jesus wants us to boys and girls in which 100 selected students certify our life by witnessing him. He said only sent from Pungro, Razeba, Chizami, Lozaphuhu people with total commitment and willingness to and Meluri attended the camp. sacrifice their lives can win the world for Him. Rev. Fr. Jose Lukose, parish priest of St. The camp ended with Marian procession and a Xavier’s Parish, Meluri, gave a cordial welcome get together, where varieties of items were to the young campers and made them feel at presented by the groups. home, while Rev. Fr. Victor Renthungo, vocation - Correspondent promoter, Diocese of Kohima, set the tone to the programme. Rev. Fr. Renthungo said, every Feast of Sacred Heart Celebrated at Christian has a “call” which is precious, saying Jotsoma “Before you were formed in your mother’s womb JOTSOMA: “Sacred Heart Feast” was I knew you” (Jer 1:4). Stating that vocation is a celebrated at Jotsoma on 23rd June, 2017, with personal call from God, he recommended children Bishop James Thoppil as the main celebrant. to pray, reflect and discern the will of God. 38faithful received the Sacrament of Rev. Fr. Peter Solo, briefed on the topic Confirmation and 21 Children received the First ‘Vocation in the local church.’ Sharing from his Holy Communion. personal life, he said to become a cheerful giver Bishop in his homily said, ‘The most is the reason of one’s life. significant source for the devotion to the Sacred Rev. Fr. Loyola Antony spoke on the topic Heart is from the revelation to Saint Margaret ‘Prayer’ in which he highlighted on three types: Mary Alacoque (1647-1690), who claimed to Sharing: August - October 2017 9 NEWS - Diocese Annual Retreat for Sisters

have received visions of Jesus Christ. The KOHIMA: Most Rev. Ignatius D’Souza, Bishop revelations were numerous, and the church has of Bareilly, conducted retreat for sisters of accepted these to be real and deeply spiritual. Kohima diocese from 26th June, to 1st of July In one of the apparitions, Jesus allowed Margaret 2017 at Mt. Tabor. 40 sisters participated in the Mary to rest her head upon His Heart during annual retreat fruitfully. - Correspondent which time He revealed to her the wonders of His love, telling her that He desired to make them New Convent Inaugurated at Tesophenyu known to all mankind and to diffuse the treasures of His goodness, and that He had chosen her for this work. It was on June 11, 1899 Pope Leo XIII solemnly consecrated the whole mankind to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1928 Pope Pius XI approved the devotion to the Sacred Heart. For us Christians the word “Sacred Heart of Jesus” symbolizes the divine love of Jesus. The very core of Christianity is expressed in the heart of Jesus. God’s heart calls to our hearts, inviting us to come out of ourselves, to renounce TESOPHENYU: A new St. Peter’s Convent was our human certainties, to trust in Him and by blessed and inaugurated on 29th June 2017, at following his example, to make ourselves a gift Tesophenyu by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, of unbounded love. “This is my commandment, Bishop of Kohima, in the presence of many that you love one another, as I have loved you.” Priests and Sisters, Public Leaders, Teachers, John 15:12 ended his homily. Parents, Students, other invited guests and well- Bishop during the feast specially greeted wishers. The day coincided with the Church the Congregation of Sacred Heart Sisters and Feast under the patronage of St. Peter. Bishop applauded them for their service to the people James celebrated the Holy Eucharist at St. of God at Jotsoma. The festal meal was served Peter’s Church, with 7 priests as concelebrants to all. - Fr. Thomas Toretkiu and the faithful. During the homily, bishop highlighted the personalities of Saints Paul and Peter to draw the significance of the feast. He said that, Saints Paul and Peter were the two leaders who guided the early Church. St. Peter with the mandate given by Christ led the Church as the first Pope. He kept the Church united which was growing Sharing: August - October 2017 10 NEWS - Diocese rapidly in the years following the Pentecost. St. Paul preached to the Non-Jews to give Jesus to them. These two saints kept the church united and strong in faith. While blessing the newly built convent at St. Peter’s Centre Tesophenyu bishop James called upon the gathering to be ever grateful for the generosity of many people who sacrificed their comfort to make this convent building. He thanked Frs. Joy, Manoj, George Punnolil, Jose Sebastian and Binoy for their committed contribution for the completion of the building. He also appreciated the interest and cooperation pro-active. He highlighted that learning is not only the area leaders and community put in for the in the book but it’s in the environment. He opined developmental work in the center. He that each student ought to realize the internal commended on the sacrifice made by the Sisters strength that is hidden in the individual. in the diocese. He urged the community to take Earlier, Bishop James, as the Chairman good care of the Sisters for the selfless service of the College, accorded his warmest welcome they render. to the Freshers. He thanked them for choosing Rev. Sr. Sibia SABS, the Provincial to search knowledge at St. Joseph’s College. Superior, cut the ribbon and inaugurated the He assured the students to make every possible building. Speaking on the occasion she thanked means to equip them with teaching resources, the Bishop, Fathers, Sisters and the community practical exposure and training methods so that members for their role in making the convent they can shape their life and career for a building a reality. challenging world. He said that the college is for Earlier, Fr. Manoj, the Centre In-charge, inspiring the minds, improving intellectual capacity accorded the words of welcome in the church and building characters which the students will and new convent building and wished the treasure for their life.He called upon the fresher’s community happy feast and blessing of the Lord. to fasten the shoes laces and to buckle up the Representatives from various other Catholic belts for the journey ahead, to make the best Communities and churches also attended the part of their life. function. Common meal was served for all after The program witnessed quality of special the ceremony. - Dn. Stephen Kemp appearance of the Tetseo Sisters. They enticed that crowed with their melodious echoes. The St. Joseph’s College Fresher’s Day Principal of the college proposed the words of welcome. Mixtures of exciting items were staged JAKHAMA: The Management, teaching staff during the program. The tone of the day was and the students of St. Joseph’s College compered by Mr. Yimyanger Longkumer and Ms. organized a fitting Day for the Fresher’s on 30th Ethel Zhimomi. The Day culminated with common June 2017, at the College Indoor Stadium. The meal and for the invites and snacks for the occasion was graced with the presence of Prof. students. - Correspondent PardeshiLal, the Vice chancellor, Nagaland University, Lumami, Nagaland as the Chief Guest Remember that when you leave this earth, you and Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of can take with you nothing that you have re- Kohima, as the Guest of Honour, in the presence ceived, only what you have given: a full heart, of the college staffs, Dignitaries, invites and enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and Students of SJC. courage. Speaking on the occasion, - St.Francis of Assisi Prof. PardeshiLal, exhorted the students to be Sharing: August - October 2017 11 NEWS - Diocese NEWS IN PICTURE Annual Priests Retreat Held at Mount Tabor

Kohima: The annual Priests Retreat was held at Mount Tabor Retreat House from 3rd to 7th Jesus Youth, Nagaland new team with Bishop on 15th Oct. 2017 July 2017. Most Rev. Dr. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad guided the retreat. 32 Priests of the Diocese attended the retreat. The preacher focused on the importance of God’s love based on the scripture. He systematically dispensed the theme of the retreat. Along with the reflection during the session, the preacher led the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament making a significant moment for all the participants. On the 5th July, the sacrament of reconciliation was made available wherein the accomplices made used of the opportunity. Bishop Raphy at the last session of the Adoration invoked special blessing of the Novena to Mary Mother of Perpetual Holy Spirit by lying on of hands to all the Help introduced at Cathedral Church participants. on 7th Oct. 2017 The retreat concluded with the Holy Mass at 6:15 pm on 7th July presided over by Bishop Raphy. Fr. Philip Yanpvuthung on behalf of the Priests’ participants expressed sentiments of gratitude to Bishop Raphy for his sacrifice and availing himself to animate the retreat. He also thanked the Mount Tabor Sisters for their generous and selfless services by making the possibilities for the smooth functioning of the retreat. - Correspondent Bible Camp held at St. Mary’s Parish Theatrical Day at St. Xavier’s College, LOZAPHUHU: St. Mary’s parish, Lozaphuhu Jalukie well thought-out a three days bible camp for catechism students of classes 2 to 12 from 1st “If you are humble nothing will touch you, neither September to 3rd September 2017. The camp praise nor disgrace, because you know what you was animated by Rev. Fr. Victor Renthungo and Rev Sisters Rosemary FMA and Regina Patton. are.” - Saint Mother Teresa There were 180 participants from Lozaphuhu Sharing: August - October 2017 12 NEWS - Diocese village, Phek Town and Lyani village. Fr. KC concept of love and brotherhood has James, the Parish Priest, accord the words of disappeared. He urged the students to keep welcome to the resources persons and the contributing in every possible way to make our campers. He exhorted the children to learn as society a better place to live in. much as possible. He also thanked the resource Vikhuli Achumi covered topic on peace persons for sacrificing their time and energy. and peace building by basing on the concept of The program was packed with lots of “Being human, love and support everyone despite activities. The participants were divided in two of our differences because at the end we are all categories according to their classes. The group the same – Human beings”. She also stressed attended the sessions with much eagerness. Fr. on peace building and qualities necessary for a Victor in his discourse explained in brief the basics peace builder. knowledge of the Bible, Church History and Moral Speaking on theme “Passion for excellence”, Henry urged the students to develop ethics based on the sacraments. Srs. Rosemary a thirst for knowledge, love and peace in order and Regina dealt with the topics of The Ten to bring change in the society and told the Commandments, Sacraments and biblical skit. students that this sense of thirst and carving On the last day the seniors and Juniors staged can be developed by loving or falling in love with skit and choir competitions. The camp ended what you do. with prize distribution. - Correspondent He added that one must set goal, have “Passion for excellence” held at NEISSR joy of learning, accumulate as much knowledge as possible, be a doer, innovative, bold, co- operative and the agent of peace. He also cited a quote of Malala - “One book, one pen, one teacher, one student can change the world”. Project Co-ordinator, David Mhathung, spoke on leadership skills, emphasising on leadership, meaning, qualities of a good leader, skills required for a good leader. He also involved the participants into different exercises which DIMAPUR: Peace Channel organized three-day helped the participants to learn more about inter-school peace activities (summer camp) cum leadership skills. peace building workshop under the theme Talked on unity in diversity, John stressed “Passion for excellence” at North East Institute on the concept that every individual is different of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) and has important role to play. We should accept Conference Hall, Bishop House, Dimapur. and respect every individual in spite of The camp was organized with the differences because it is in differences that objective to continue re-enforcement of the strength lies upon, he added. realization among the quality Peace Club Other highlights of the programme members that they are peace activist even when included activities like group work and they are outside the school environment and to presentation, flag making and explaining the understand the concept of peace, peace building concept, debate, extempore speech, ice- and youth as a peace builder in the Naga Society. breaking session, creativity show, peace Special guest of the programme, Rev. celebration, movie screening, cultural festival to Fr. John Poji, vice principal of NEISSR, promote peace among different culture and appreciated the organizers for giving a platform religion. The program was attended by Quality to the younger generation in the field of peace Peace Club members from different schools in building. He exhorted the participants by Dimapur along with their teacher animators, well- stressing on harmony and peaceful society. wishers and other peace activist. He mentioned how the society has grown from - Correspondent bad to worst in just a few years and how the Sharing: August - October 2017 13 NEWS - Diocese Our Lady of Mount Carmel Celebrates days the seminar were occupied with enriching programmes such as three days of basic music Parish Feast notation by Bro. John Thur (Regent), one day workshop on Health and Hygiene which was conducted three resource persons from DAN namely, Regina Kithan, Rokhosenuo and Athan. The next three days were spent on learning basics of Martial arts under the guidance of Mr. Ato. The next three days, Rev. Fr. Christudas, sdb preached treat for the spiritual nourishment. Rev. Fr. Lichoi John gave a one day programme on basics of Phonetics. Rev. Fr. Francis Yim so, DIMAPUR: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Chekiye the Principal of St. Xavier College, Jalukie village, Dimapur celebrated the name feast of animated a two day leadership camp. The the Parish on July 16th, 2017. The festal mass summer vacation programmes concluded with presided over by Rev Fr. George Punnolil, a Talent Night, wherein each individual was given Financial Administrator,Diocese of Kohima and a chance to display skills on various musical concelebrated by some priests from neighboring instruments such as Bass and Rhythm guitars, parishes and institutions. On the occasion 18 keyboard, Accordion, harmonium and Triple. children received the Sacrament of first Holy We are grateful to all the resource Communion. Rev Fr. Johnson VU was also persons for their selfless services rendered to installed on the feast day as the Parish priest of our young seminarians. - Fr. John Lichoi Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish. There was Eucharistic Procession in the Parish Campus Nagaland: Pioneer of Education in the after the Holy mass. Rev Fr. Johnson invoked State, Fr. Joseph James Felix Passes Away the final blessing with the Blessed Sacrament to the community at the end of the Eucharistic DIMAPUR: Nagaland has Procession. lost one of its pioneers in A short felicitation programme was the field of education. The prepared to welcome Fr. Johnson as he took up demise of Fr. Joseph the new ministry to be the Parish priest. The James Felix has left a void celebration ended with the sumptuous meal which was served to all. - Fr. Marius Zachamo in the hearts of the people who often consider him as Summer Vacation Programs at SXS great visionary. He was 90 years old. Fr. Felix, who had been leading a retired life for the past two decades, passed away on July 15 9:30 pm at Holy Redeemer Health Centre Chumukedima. Born on December 10, 1927 at Jamshedpur, he was ordained a priest on December 5, 1954. In 1957, he worked as a catholic priest and educator in Hundung, Tangkhul JALUKIE: Summer vacation, for St. Xavier area of Manipur, and came to Kohima in 1962 Seminary Jalukie, is so to say the most hectic and ministered at the Christ King Parish till 1965. time as various programmes are organised for “These were blessed years for Nagaland. the seminarians. This year too, the first fourteen Fr. Felix realized that the Good News of Jesus Sharing: August - October 2017 14 NEWS - Diocese Christ will become more meaningful and Early the next day the youths proceeded to Meluri effectivefor the people of Nagaland if they are Parish where Rev. Fr. Jose Lukose, the Parish Priest and Principal of St. Xavier’s Meluri able to get quality and affordable education at welcomed them cordially. After which they their own locality,” the release said. proceeded the journey towards Shilloi lake under To achieve this goal, he established 7 the guidance of Martin. Unfortunately, the English medium schools in different parts of worsening condition of the road wouldn’t permit Nagaland. Holy Cross School Dimapur, St. John the youths to reach their destination – Shilloi School Tuensang, All saints School, Peren, and lake. Therefore they halted at Zhipu village in the house of a pastor who heartily welcomed Don Bosco School, Khonoma have grown into them into his own house. The following morning, centres of excellence, it stated, adding 3 others the youths climbed Lumüsüpa, the limestone schools were closed down due to “opposition mountain and spent the day. The next day, they from certain ill-informed church leaders.” journeyed back via another road, supposedly to Fr. Chacko stated Fr. Felix will always be a better road but ended in getting the vehicle stucked in the road for hours. After much be remembered as a great visionary who saw struggles, they managed to make way for the possibility of education to mould the future Akhegwo towards evening and halted in the of a state. “He realized in his life that the Good house of the Village Chairman, Mr. S. Ninso, News becomes a liberating grace only when who whole heartedly welcomed and took great people are redeemed from their ignorance by care of them to the extent of giving them his own good education.” - Correspondent chickens for their nourishments and the Village Council Hall to rest for the night. The next morning St. Anthony Church CYA Exposure Tour came another bigger surprise in the person of Hichender, Assistant Commandant of 7th A.R. Akhegwo, who visited them along with a sumptuous breakfast prepared for them. Then, began the adventurous journey to Zhavame Village, known as the vegetable village where they also tracked Mt. Kapamodzü, explored the cabbage valley, the apple orchard, the famous stone-cave, the great water-fall, Glory peak at Pfütsero and other historical sites around. After the adventurous day, they proceeded back towards home. The exposure tour was not just TENYIPHE: Under the theme, “Exploring the a sight-seeing trip but it was also a faith beauty of God’s Creation,” 24 young energetic strengthening trip. The youths experienced God’s youth of St. Anthony Church, Tenyiphe undertook divine protection and providence through-out the an exposure tour to Shilloi lake from 7th July to journey. Whenever they landed in an unknown 12th July. The six-day trip was filled with fun, place, God send good Samaritans to shower adventure, struggle as well as faith strengthening them hospitality and love. Every youth who made experience for everyone. this exposure trip learned that “If we trust in On 7th July, the journey began after a God, He will never abandon us.” - Noel short prayer in the church led by Megophilie Noel, President, CYA Tenyiphe. The first halt was at Pfütsero in the house of Sapuni Gregory, a school teacher who generously showered his hospitality by giving the youth a resting place. Sharing: August - October 2017 15 NEWS - Diocese DRINK, DRANK, DRUNK “No longer drink only water, but take a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.”(1 Timothy 5: 23) Introduction: Drinking alcohol is a very hot topic among Christians that has been argued and discussed for thousands of years. God warns us to not be drunk and describes certain situations where someone should not drink, but the Bible never says that alcohol is wrong. Since the Bible doesn’t absolutely forbid drinking alcohol, whether or not someone should drink is a personal decision to make for yourself. Almost everybody knows an alcoholic or has one for a relative. We are not innocent about the scars burned into the nation’s heart and bounty by the misuse of alcohol. All of us who counsel in any capacity will sooner or later become involved, at least indirectly, in the problem, with alcoholics themselves or with affected members of their families (Fr. C. Joseph is the former two terms editor of ‘Sharing’ or colleagues at work. A pervasive smog of stress arises from alcoholic published by the Diocese of problems. Difficulties with drinking involve many persons besides the Kohima and currently he is drinkers, multiplying stress manifold. The aura of alcoholism Students Counsellor in encompasses a cluster of people, invading each with a different St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama. intensity of emotion. Although some counsellors never meet an He is also the President of All alcoholic face-to-face, almost every day they get the whiff of some Nagaland Counsellors Association (ANCA) alcoholic’s breath in the life of at least one of the persons seeking help from them. The person across from us may be a spouse or an adult still unable to pull free of the shadow cast across their lives by an alcoholic parent. The marks, the memories, and the stresses of problem drinkers are found almost everywhere in our culture. In recent years, the problem of alcohol use and abuse has become more amenable to study. Against a background of increased cultural concern and a better sense of the problem’s dimensions and sequelae, research instruments have been fashioned to measure agreed-upon criteria to diagnose the various levels of severity of what are now termed “substance-related disorders”. As a result, remarkable strides have been made in assessing the international public health dimensions of alcohol use.

The things we carry with us: For counsellors, countertransference problems with alcoholics seeking help frequently arise as responses to transference reactions of theirs that crackle with rebelliousness, dishonesty, or aggression. These feelings may also emanate from our lack of knowledge about alcoholism and its treatment or our own experiences with alcohol as a problem in our own lives, families, or friendships. As counsellors we always profit from examining our own feelings about alcohol and alcoholic persons. Some trauma close to the bone can make it very difficult for us to be sympathetic to, or even interested in, persons with drinking problems. We may rule out working with them because we find them morally objectionable. None of us can be of much assistance to individual with drinking problems if we have within us serious emotional blocks to the basic acceptance of these individuals as persons. Many helpers function with a smattering of general impressions about alcoholism. They may not have read much or they may habitually respond out of instinct when they must deal with the problem. Such styles may be improvisation in reaction to the difficulties involved in getting a comprehensive and useful clinical picture of the alcoholic person. Nonetheless, we have a professional obligation to deepen our understanding through reading or by attending continuing education programme on the subject. Sharing: August - October 2017 16 NEWS - Diocese The basic principle in counselling is to keep the better. They should be ready to support families person, rather than just the person’s problem or friends in planning and carrying out with alcohol, in focus. Many counsellors find it interventions to get alcoholics into treatment. almost impossible to perceive such individuals as persons. The problem itself looms so large – Conclusion: Counsellors frequently function best and with such an unpleasant emotional aura – if they are part of a treatment team. Joining in that compassion does not easily arise and effort to reach out to the potential alcoholic is establishing a helping relationship is difficult. It one of the most promising functions that a is easy to perceive a person with drinking counsellor can fulfil. This goes against the difficulties as a problem case even when we instincts of many counsellors, however, because intellectually agree that alcoholism is a disease they may expect, because of some previous rather than a personal fault. The effort to see experience, to wait for, rather than seek out, drinkers as persons beneath all their disruptive persons who need help. Some participation in a and abhorrent behaviour remains, however, team that recognizes the effectiveness of moving fundamental if counselling is to succeed. out toward the potential alcoholic at an Counsellors may also have negative feelings important time should not be about individuals with alcoholism because of the underestimated.”Alcohol may be man’s worst chronic relapsing nature of the illness. enemy, but the Bible says love your enemy”. Professionals as well as nonprofessional Frank Sinatra(Bible Verses About Drinking counsellors can easily become frustrated and Alcohol – 1 Peter 4: 3, Ecclesiastes 9: 7, irritated at the individual’s inability to maintain Ephesians 5: 18, Proverbs 20: 1, Proverbs 23: sobriety and identify with family members who 31, Romans 13: 13, Proverbs 31: 4-5, Psalms express some of the same feelings. 104: 14-15, 1 Corinthians 10: 23-24, Isaiah 62: 8-9, Galatians 5: 19-21, 1 Corinthians 9: 19- A Core Difficulty: Despite advances in our recent 23, Romans 14: 15-21, John 2: 3-11, Proverbs understanding of alcoholism, many still perceive 21: 17 the alcoholic as an individual who makes a conscious decision to drink too much. They view alcoholics, in other words, as sinners, moral failures who choose their own uncomfortable fate. They judge them to be responsible for deciding to stop and to pull themselves free of the pit into which they threw themselves. Such people think themselves wise when they say, “Nothing can be done until they decide to do something for themselves.” At another level, it is recognized that an essential characteristic of alcoholism is that these persons can’t control their choices about drinking. Much, however, can be done. Counsellors should know that the most successful alcoholism programmes are those that reach out to alcoholics rather than wait for alcoholics to come to them. Persons with drinking problems can respond to family interventions and to treatment when it is offered to them. Helpers should not construct an attitude that traps them into a role of waiting for alcoholics to prove that they are ready to get

Sharing: August - October 2017 17 NEWS - Diocese Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola Celebrated at Razeba

life. Social work as a helping profession should reflect the spirit of compassion and being true to oneself. She highlighted the importance of honesty and hard work which will eventually balance out the other things which may not seem RAZEBA: St. Ignatius Parish celebrated the so fair in our lives. Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola Sunday 30th July Dr. C.P. Anto too highlighted on the need 2017 at Razeba with Rev. Fr. Anthony of training more social workers. He shared a RozuDukru, the former Vice-Principal of St. dream where NEISSR will produce professional Joseph’s College, Jakhama as the main who do not seek employment but provide celebrant. employment to the youth of the Naga society. Rev. Fr. Anthony in his homily enlightened Basing on different statistical findings, he spoke the community by quoting the life example of St. on how social workers can fill the gaps that is Ignatius of Loyola who stood for Christ, we too seen in what our society ought to have been and ought to imitate him and be a source of inspiration what really is. to win souls for the greater glory of God. Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of The highlights of the celebrations include Kohima too urged them to live and inculcate the Festal songs, Choreography, Action songs and mission and the vision for which NEISSR was special items which were presented by the started. He called upon the trainees to be the Parish Youth, Mothers Association and agents in restructuring the Naga society based Catechism children. on sustainable development and peaceful At the outset of the celebration Rev. Fr. coexistence. The programme was by Governing James Sangtam pronounced words of welcome body members and well-wishers of NEISSR. It while Mr. Michael Krocha proposed the vote of might be mentioned that NEISSR inducted 50 thanks. The Feast Day Celebration concluded new social work trainees for its present fourth with a Community meal. batch. The freshers’ day also mark the - Fr. James Sangtam culmination of a weeklong orientation workshop on topics ranging from Child Rights, Organic NEISSR Inducts 50 New Social Doctors farming and social entrepreneurship. DIMAPUR: North East Institute of Social - Correspondent Science and Research (NEISSR) welcomed its St. Joseph’s University Celebrates First fourth batch of social work trainees during its Freshers’ Day Freshers’ Day cum inaugural programme held on 2nd August at NEISSR Conference Hall, DIMAPUR: The Freshers’ Day 2017 programme Dimapur. The programme was graced by for the first semester students of St Joseph nd Ms.Nyempo Wallim, SDO Civil, Dimapur as the University was held on 2 August 2017 in the Chief Guest. She exhorted that an individual university campus, Ikishe Model Village. Most should exhibit compassion in all their walks of Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima and Sharing: August - October 2017 18 NEWS - Diocese NEWS IN PICTURE

Pro-Chancellor of St Joseph University graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The other dignitaries Dr. Priyo Kumar Singh, the Nominee of the Governor of Nagaland, who is also the Lotha Catholic Youth Movement Kohima Visitor to this university, Dr. Z Kheshito Zhimo, organised a Seminary on Youth Development Chairman of Ikishe Village Council and Rev Fr. and Leadership, 12th August 2017 Dr. J E Arul Raj, founder and Chairman of DMI & MMI Foundation were also present for the function. While addressing the gathering bishop James highlighted the genesis of St Joseph University. He shared about his fervent desire to set up a catholic university while taking over as the Bishop of Kohima, for catering to the needs of the younger generations of Nagaland in the field of Higher and Technical education. He also Bible Camp held at St. Mary’s Parish, Lozaphuhu exhorted the students to be filled with values on compilation of their studies at the university. He mentioned that St. Joseph University is making a History for a change. He extended his gratitude Fr. Arul Raj, the DMI & MMI foundation and the persons instrumental in the realization of the University. Rev. Fr. Dr. J E Arul Raj, founder and Chairman of DMI & MMI Foundation and the Chancellor of the university addressed the Josephites greets Most Rev. Dr. James Thopil assembly. In his speech, Fr. Dr. Arul Raj, pointed on his Feast Day out that St. Joseph University would stress more on practical aspects of higher and technical education so as to make every young men and women sustainable. The Vice Chancellor of SJU Dr. D Gnanadurai presented a broad overview of the University and its curriculum. He highlighted the adoption of the “Choice Based Credit System in St Joseph University Nagaland”. The programme ended with the vote of thanks proposed by Charles MhonthungEzung, Department of Friendly Basketball Match between Senior and Political Science. - Fr. Francis MMI Junior Priests during Vianney Day 2017 Sharing: August - October 2017 19 NEWS - Diocese Diocesan Fraternity Celebrates Feast of Earlier, Rev. Fr. Sebastian O, the Principal St. John Mary Vianney of St. Joseph College the host of the Vianney Day celebration accorded words of welcome to the fathers and others who came to participate in the Eucharist. He also elaborated on the importance of the day and briefed on the life and works of St. John Mary Vianney and set the tone of the Holy Eucharistic celebration. Rev. Fr. Solomon Vizo, on behalf of the Diocesan Fraternity, thanked Fr. Sebastian O, Fathers, the Sisters and the students for the hard work they put in to make the celebration a JAKHAMA: The Diocesan Fraternity of Kohima grand success. He also thanked the fathers for Diocese celebrated the Feast of St. John Marie taking trouble to come over for this annual Baptiste Vianney, the Patron Saint of all Priests th celebration. A friendly Basketball match was on 4 August at St. Joseph College, Jakhama. played between the Senior and Junior Fathers. On the occasion Rev. Fr. Solomon Vizo, the On the 3rd August in the evening the Sacerdotal Jubilarian was the main celebrant of diocesan fraternity gathered together for a the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration. It was meeting to discuss various issues pertaining to concelebrated by Bishop James Thoppil, Fr. the smooth running of the Diocese. Bishop Mariadhoss, silver Jubilarian and around 50 James appreciated his priests for their dedicated Priests. The Josephites family the host of the and committed work in the different parts of the event participated in the Solemn Eucharistic state of Nagaland, enduring all hardship and celebration. trials. The main celebrant in his introductory It may be mentioned that this celebration note thanked the Lord for the gift of priesthood is an annual feature wherein the Diocesan priests and wished all the fathers the festal greetings. eagerly look forward to this great day. This is a He called upon the assembly to join them in day to reflect, pray, admire and rededicate thanking the Lord. themselves after the virtues of their patron. They Fr. Mariadhoss recalled in his Homily, with come together every year in order to commit gratitude the innumerable blessings he received themselves more concretely after the heart of from the Lord and also some trying moments Jesus, the eternal high priest. that he underwent during his 25 years as a priest. - Fr. Renthungo Victor Recalling the experience of John Mary Vianney who overcame dark moments in his life through FMA Congregation Inducts 14 New Sisters intense prayer, he said that it is prayer and KOHIMA: On 5th August, 2017, the Salesian support of a couple priests that enabled him to Sisters of ‘Mater Ecclesiae’ Province of Guwahati sail through the rough years of life. Reflecting was richly blessed by God with 14 young and on the word of the Lord he focused on “being in vibrant brides of Christ; Sr. Arinai Reena, communion with the lord” so as to be able to Sr. Bara Jayanti, Sr. Domai Pukhonai Prisca, share Christ’s Love. Sr. Ezung Yanbeni Agnes, Sr. Gonmei Ludumlu Frs. Solomon Vizo and Mariadoss, the Rosalia, Sr. Dilbung Gracy Lamkang, Silver jubililarians, were felicitated soon after the Sr. Makapungmei P. Sarah, Sr. Murmu Ruthmoni, Eucharistic Celebration by the Diocesan Sr. Raimai D. Monica, Sr. Sangma Marina, Fraternity. A grand felicitation programme was Sr. Tsiikrii Kuoliebeinuo Mary, Sr. Tudu Joba, organized by the Josephites family with as a Sr. WangsuNawlai Rita, Sr. Wangsu Phephot sign of appreciation for the dedicated service of Teresa pronouncing their First Religious Vows the Priests of the Diocese of Kohima. with the theme “Rooted in Christ, we build up (Contd. in page 25) Sharing: August - October 2017 20 Sharing: August - October 2017 21 Sharing: August - October 2017 22 Sharing: August - October 2017 23 Sharing: August - October 2017 24 NEWS - Diocese Awareness Programme at DHSSB

and grow…” (Col. 2:7) in the hands of Sr. George BHANDARI: An awareness program was held Elizabeth, Mother Provincial who is the delegate at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School Bhandari of the Superior General. The two witnesses were on 17th to 18th August 2017. The event was Sr. Inchenat Annie and Sr. Domai Ronai Maria organized by the Development Association of Goretti. Nagaland, a project sponsored by the It was held at Mary Help of Christians Conference of Italian Bishops’. Cathedral, Kohima at 10:00 a.m. where Most Mr.Paul and Miss Martha from DAN were Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima presided over the Eucharistic celebration with the resource persons. Initially the resource 22 con-celebrants. Many other religious, laity, persons gave the awareness class on malaria, parents, well-wishers and relatives were present HIV and career guideline. for the occasion. The sisters to be professed Later after the end of the training and with lighted lamps in their hands were led to the awareness the participants were divided into altar by their Novice Mistress Sr. Mabel Gothorp ten groups and these groups would contact this accompanied by their parents. awareness program for others. There were 185 While congratulating the young sisters for participating comprising Class 9, 10, 11, 12 .We taking the brave steps, Bishop James exhorted are grateful to Fr. S. Charles, Director of DAN them in his homily with the following words, “By for providing this program for students. our consecration, we are set apart from the - Fr. Obed Yim world to serve God. Religious people are signs and symbols more than words can describe. St. Ignatius Church Razeba Conducted The church today needs people who will not only Christian Life Programme speak the truth but will live the truth with their life. He also pointed out to them the various RAZEBA: Participants with Couples for Christ demands and challenges of Religious life”. Nagaland St. Ignatius Church Razeba conducted After the solemn and meaningful Christian Life programme (CLP) for the Catholic Eucharistic Celebration, the 14 newly professed Communities on 19th& 20th August 2017 with sisters voiced out their sentiments of Gratitude Couples for Christ Nagaland as the Resource to God with the theme “Rooted in Him” for the persons. The CLP began with the words of Formators, Parents and all who had come for introduction and welcome by Fr. James the celebrations. Mr. Peter Lamkang also Sangtam. proposed the Vote of Thanks on behalf of Bro. Marcus Mengukhrietuo briefed the parents. It was followed by sharing of fraternal importance of becoming a member of ‘Couple meal prepared by the Mothers of the Cathedral Church which was served at the Cathedral for Christ.’ He and his Team shared their life ground. The day concluded with a note of testimonies how after joining Couples for Christ gratitude to God and prays to the Lord of the Nagaland gradually transform their personal lives harvest to send many more labourers to work in and family at large. Many couples and individuals His vineyard. - Sr. Rosemary Saini FMA who attended the CLP opted to be Couples for Sharing: August - October 2017 25 NEWS - Diocese decision to know and embrace Catholic faith are all brought to the youth’s awareness during the camp. In this light, the ministry seeks to ensure the effectively and efficiency of each camp by creating a manual that will guide areas for preparations and actual executions. Clarifications and questions are all laid out in this manual, as well as instructions for proper implementations.

Goals of the Youth Camp The Youth camp should: 1. Introduce Jesus to the participants. 2. Encourage the participants to invite Jesus into their lives. Christ Nagaland. All together 138 members (54 3. Invite the participants into the support couples for Christ, 10 Handmaids of the Lord, 6 environment of YFC. servants of the Lord & 14 Singles for Christ) 4. Introduce the Covenant of YFC to the pledged themselves to be Couples for Christ participants. Nagaland. The CLP concluded with the words of gratitude which was proposed by Mr. Buni Achieving the Goals of the Youth Camp through Zholia on behalf of the participants. the 4F’s. These goals should be achieved - Fr. James Sangtam through the Four Fs Principle of the YFC program as implemented in the camp activities: CFC - Youth For Christ (YFC) Camp 1. Fun A major part of a young person’s life is experiencing fun. It is important for them to see the beauty of their lives through enjoying each moment. In YFC, we want them to see that this can be experienced when they live a life for Christ. That is why it is important that our youth camps are fun and enjoyable for everyone. 2. Friendship KOHIMA: The desire for personal One of the aspects which the youth can build transformation, a renewed relationship with their lives on is their relationship with their peers. Christ, and a stronger conviction to proclaim His Their peers hold great influence in their decisions, love has paved way for YFC to press on with choices and preferences in life. It is a major part the mission - continuous evangelization. The of their growth. In YFC, we allow them to Youth Camp, the entry point to YFC plays an experience true and lasting friendships with each important role in the work of evangelization. It is other in God. We introduce them to people that a vital starting point of every youth’s journey can influence them in a positive way, moving towards a renewed and stronger relationship them to become better persons. This is why it is with Christ. It is through the camp that the important that our youth camps give ways for members are re-introduced to the concept of them to establish such kind of relationship. God’s love and His plan as something that is 3. Freedom personal and real. The concept of being in a At this time of their life, the youth have an eager community (CFC-YFC), true friendship, right need to express and be understood by the people freedom, good clean fun, and an individual around them. They want to have an opportunity Sharing: August - October 2017 26 NEWS - Diocese to express who they are and be themselves Senior Kids Camps without judgement. In YFC, we teach them the A. Description freedom in God’s light. We create opportunities The Senior Kids Camp is the formal entry point for them to be themselves and learn how God for kids ages 9 to 12 years old to be members wants them to use their freedom responsibly. of the CFC Kids for Christ (KFC) ministry. It is 4. Faith an experience where the kids can have fun, and We teach the youth to anchor on their faith, at the same time hear and see the Word of God encouraging them to see the significance of their being proclaimed by the YFC Youth for Christ faith as they journey with God in their daily lives. (YFC) servants in ways that they can appreciate. Faith allows them to continue their relationship It is in this camp where the “Senior Kids” with God even if the world gives them reason to experience God proclaimed by their YFC do otherwise. In YFC, we give venues for them brothers and sisters who were just like them a to express and to experience, and the opportunity few years ago, and who they can now look up to strengthen their faith to as models. In this camp, they can make friends as they play games, share experiences, and CFC – Kids For Christ (KFC) Camp entertain one another in a wholesome Christian environment. Here, they can discover and be encouraged to develop their gifts and potential for leadership as they are exposed to their peers and to the youth who are actively serving them as speakers, facilitators, games coordinators, and others. B. Goals 1. To introduce Jesus to the kids, making them realize that God has a special place for them in His heart, and that He loves them very much even if they are still very young. What is Junior Kids’ Day? 2. To enable the kids to respond to God’s love Junior Kids’ Day is a four-hour activity for children through a healthy and fun environment of whose ages range from 4-8 years old. It is during prayers, songs, activities and fellowship this activity that the children of this age group among peers and friends. are formally accepted and committed to the Kids 3. To give them a sense of identity as member for Christ (KFC) ministry of CFC. of CFC Kids for Christ where they can share and expect Christian love, unity, and support The Goals of the Junior Kids’ Day from one another. 1. To introduce the kids to a loving relationship 4. To expose them to their older brothers and with Jesus Christ, making them experience sisters in the YFC, joyfully using their talents His love and allowing them to respond to it. to serve them, inspiring them to look forward 2. To help introduce community life to children, to joining CFC Youth for Christ when they through interactions with their Youth for Christ grow older. (YFC) “kuyas” (big brother) and “ates” (big sister), and through the friendships they CFC - Music Ministry Service in a Christian develop with fellow KFC members who Life Program participate in the Junior Kids’ Day. The role of the Music Ministry is very significant 3. To give the children a clear identity as Kids to be able to achieve the goals of the Christian for Christ members. Life Program. Through the songs, the 4. To help introduce family prayer time to the participants are able to imbibe biblical truths, children (and their parents, if this has not been find a new expression of their faith, experience practiced at home). Sharing: August - October 2017 27 NEWS - Diocese the power of praise and worship, and feel the unity of a Christian community. BISHOP’S CALL ON PRAYER These elements ought to be the effect of the KOHIMA: I am sure that we have been following service of the Music Ministry. up the much awaited political settlement of the Naga problem and the “framework agreement” CFC – Singles For Christ (SFC) NAGALAND that Government of India (GOI) signed with Naga SFC MISSION: “Building the Church of the Home national leaders. The peace process is at a and Building the Church of the Poor” critical juncture and at cross road, not knowing SFC VISION: “Every Single Man and Woman what is going to happen, where to turn, what to All Over the World Experiencing Christ” believe, whom to trust, what to expect, how to be involved, etc. It is in these moments of SFC VISION EXPOUNDED darkness and uncertainty that we need God’s Singles for Christ is the next Generation of enlightenment, guidance and inspiration. These Couples For Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit can be obtained only by being alert and docile to journey and witness with single men and to the Spirit, which come only by prayer. women in their discovery and pursuit of vocations Therefore, I, on behalf of the people of and the fullness of the mission towards building Nagaland in general and of the Catholic a Christ-centered society. Community in particular to join us in prayer for This formation Retreat weekend aims to help God’s guidance. The Catholic Church in Nagaland men and women: is keeping August 15th as a special day of prayer. 1. Understand and appreciate God’s plan for On this day we would like to pray for all our creating us male and female. leaders that they may be led by the power of 2. Understand and appreciate God’s design for the Holy Spirit to seek and find solutions to build the sexual union. up our society, strengthen our relationship and 3. Desire to seek intimacy with God before bring about reconciliation and peace among all anyone else. peoples through the powerful intercession of 4. Seek redemption and transformation in Christ Mother Mary. We pray for all stake holders and to help them live a life pleasing to God. people involved in the peace process and 5. Prepare themselves for a stable, committed dialogue may have a good health of mind and relationship that will lead to marriage if this is body, wisdom and courage to make decision their discerned vocation. that will bring about lasting peace and harmony, 6. Choose to live a life of chastity. prosperity and development of our people. We shall also continue praying the prayer About the Weekend: of St. Francis of Assisi (given below) for peace The Christ Pursuit Weekend is a pastoral and reconciliation in Nagaland, which we have formation weekend retreat offered by CFC - been praying for the last four years in most of Singles for Christ (SFC) to its members. It is our churches and communities. part of the SFC that aims to strengthen and fortify its members’ growth in their Christian life. It will “Lord, make me a channel of your peace; be a good opportunity to refresh oneself on the where there is hatred, let me sow love; important teachings found in this retreat. Where there is injury, pardon; where there is - Bro Mengukhrietuo Marcus doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; Sharing: August - October 2017 28 NEWS - Diocese For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning belong to each other and be one in Jesus. In nut that we are pardoned; shell, this will remain always as a memorable it is in dying that we are born again to eternal days in our lives. And as the theme suggests life”. that if we live, we will live as Young Zealous (St. Francis of Assisi) Apostles of Christ. We also thank Fr. Jose Reechus who accompanied the youth and Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil reached us safe and sound. Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland “…Those who seek me diligently will find me” (Pro- 8:17) Phuvkiu Youth to Arunachal Pradesh - Khimethong Moses

PHUVKIU: It was a prized moment for us to NEWS & INFORMATION mingle with the youth of Arunachal Pradesh. Education Commission Diocese of Kohima However, before I pen down a few lines about our trip, may I thank God for blessing our Centre Since some schools have already started the with two Pallottine fathers in the person of Fr. process for ordering books for 2018 kindly Manoj Punchakunnel and Fr. Jose Reechus. We take note: the following youth Khimethong Moses, Nguti 1. No change of text books for cl. 1- 8 for Luke, Shashela Rita, Litshala Roselin, Chilonli 2018. Jecinta and Arühli Alex from Phuvkiu started our 2. There will be revision of text books for 2019. journey on 13th May 2017 to Arunachal Pradesh Therefore kindly order books only what is for a program titled “Called to be an Apostle: required for 2018 to avoid excess stock. A North Eastern Zonal Youth Meet”. We were edified to see how the Lord is blessing the From Rina Ray, Special Secretary, MHRD: Arunachal Mission. Though the youth over there The Lok Sabha has passed an amendment compared to us are new to catholic faith, their to the RTE Act to the effect that all in service approaches towards the enhancement of government and Private elementary school missionary activities are commendable to the teachers must acquire the D.El. Ed degree core. We learned this, directly by observing their by 31st March 2019, or be dismissed from participation and sharing during our stay at their jobs. The Rajya Sabha is likely to pass Yachuli one of the mission stations of Pallottine this next week. Please note that the MHRD fathers. This youth meet was well organized by will be offering an 18 month online course fathers along with the youth of Yachuli Mission. with personal contact classes, to be This time, the participants were only selected conducted by NIOS, on the MHRD SWAYAM youth numbering 158 from five mission stations platform, for both government and private viz., Kimin, Yachuli, Daporijo, Siyum (AP) and teachers from October 3 2017 till March 31, Phuvkiu (Nagaland). We had very enriching 2019, registration for this will start from mid sessions by fathers and sisters, animation August. Details will follow on Monday. THIS programs, plan for a better youth in this world, WILL BE THE ONLY APPROVED COURSE action songs, cultural evening, games and FOR PRIVATE TEACHERS ( ie those not sports. We also had an opportunity to expose already presently enrolled in an approved our Yimchunger culture through folk song and course which will end by 31 March 2019) dance. Above all, we could see different cultural PLEASE THEREFORE DISCOURAGE ANY displays by youth from various tribes such as MOVE BY ANY PRIVATE PARTY TO Nyishi, Tagin and Adi. Though there were different CONDUCT AN 18 MONTH COURSE FOR tribal youth present for the same, we never felt PRIVATE TEACHERS. Thank you. we are different because the campus echoed only one name ‘Jesus’ which made us all to Sharing: August - October 2017 29 NEWS - Diocese Christ King School, Phuvkiu Children Peace Building and Organic Farming Held Stole the Thunder

PHUVKIU: It was a tremendous effort from our CHIEPHOBOZOU: A three days of training on little children to make our village proud by women’s Role in peace building and organic exhibiting a patriotic dance on 71st Independence farming was held for Angami Catholic women at Day sub-divisional celebration at Pungro Town. Chiephobozou Church, Kohima from 26th to 27th Moreover, this was for the first time that our August 2017. Mr. Samir was the resource person children performed something outside of our of the event. He enlightened the gathering with village. Nearly, about 115 children ranging from many skills and exhorted the womenfolk to be a UKG to Class V participated in it. The audience chain of change by contributing as leaders in was in thousands and special invitees were in the church and in the society. NCWA and all in hundreds and all of them were in laughter to see the parish for their initiative. The Organized by small children for the performance among the Peace Channel. - Correspondent high school students and cultural troops. However, when our children started to step up NCYM Day Observed at St. Paul’s Parish to the music, the entire crowd was taken up by Peren astonishment. All of a sudden, instead of laughter there appeared flash lights from mobiles all over the ground. Even I myself was taken by surprise to see our children in such a state of rhythm. I could even see flow of tears from some of our men from Phuvkiu who were witnessing the performance of our little children. It is really an edifying experience as far as Phuvkiu is concerned. At this juncture, we thank whole heartedly the fathers who made this possible for us and the teaching staff that supported the children in bringing it to its finest end. We also PEREN: Catholic Youth Association of St. Paul’s thank his Excellency Rt. Rev James Thoppil the Parish Church, Peren observed the NCYM day th Bishop of Kohima for sending two fathers to on 10 September 2017. Smti. Makeyitei Agnes, Phuvkiu village. - Mr. Khiutsikiu the President of Zeliangrong Catholic Women Association (ZCWA) greeted & exhorted the youth. The community joined the day and expressed their joy and solidarity with the youth through message and festal song. They presented a duel song called Lucky is the one who knows & loves God melodiously. Senior local Catechist Mr.Paunam also encouraged the youth. Further, the Zeliangrong Catholic Youth Sharing: August - October 2017 30 NEWS - Diocese Association,Nagaland (ZCYAN) Team led by the President Ms.Paulamle Angela, participated the mass and presented a melodious song as seen with words of thanks to God. They also expressed their gratitude to St. Paul’s Church Community, Peren for all the blessings to ZCYAN. Ms.Kwagumle, invoked God’s blessings for NCYM & ZCYAN during the Celebration. - Mr. Patrick 5th Day Mass Celebrated for Late Fr. Mathew Keemattam Superior of Corpus Christi Province, Dimapur, all councillors, parents and relatives of the sisters and many faithful from in and around Dimapur. Bishop, while addressing the gathering, congratulated the sisters for their courage and determination to opt to live the religious life in a world that glamorises unbridled materialism and excessive materialism; in a world where respect for authority and discipline are dwindling and personal egos and whims are celebrated as the will of God, adding it a courageous step to be religious. Bishop said that everyone longs to be happy and be loved. He recalled the series of CHEIPOPHOZUO: Bishop James Thoppil the love that leads to sacrifice. He said that God celebrated the 5th day Mass for Lt. Fr. Mathew is the greatest lover for He sent Jesus, His only th Keemattam at Chiephobozou on 24 September Son, to save humanity as ransom. 2017. He personally and on behalf of the diocese Exhorting the sisters to be happy and thanked Fr. Gabriel, Sisters, Community fulfilled in religious life, he said one must have members for their sacrifices cooperation and and develop a warm, intimate and passionate support to Lt. Fr. Mathew and the deep relationship with Christ. Quoting the words of expression of love and care for him in his last St. Paul to the Colossians he said, “you received days and after his death. - Correspondent Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in Him, rooted and built up in Him and establish in the faith, just as Sisters of Adoration of the Blessed you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” Sacrament Inducts Seven New Members The seven Novices, in the presence of Rev. Sr. Sibia SABS, vowed the three DIMAPUR: The Corpus Christi Province of the evangelical counsels namely, Poverty, Chastity Sisters of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Obedience as their commitment to the Lord (SABS) inducted seven new members in the in the congregation of Sisters of Adoration of congregation. the Blessed Sacrament. Ann Awungshi, Bernadette Ekka, Earlier, the seven Novices were Philistina Myrthong, Alphina Kujur, Juie Leivon, accompanied by their parents to the altar in Magdalene Jongphülü and Justina Lamthew procession. Rev. Sr. Sibia SABS, the Provincial were vested and professed as members of the Superior, accorded the words of welcome to SABS congregation at St. Joseph’s Church, Bishop, priests, sisters, parents and invited Chumukedima, on October 7. The occasion was guests. graced by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of The newly professed sisters have thanked Kohima, as the main celebrant in which 35 priests everyone and acknowledged their gratitude with con-concelebrated the Holy Mass in the a melodious song. - Sr. Theresa Rongmei presence of Rev. Sr. Sibia SABS, the Provincial Sharing: August - October 2017 31 NEWS - Diocese St. Mary’s Convent, Padumpukhuri, Dimapur Twin Celebration

spiritual church, the celebrant said that riches and wealth were important but renewing oneself PADUMPUKHURI: The Sisters of St. Mary’s and making “ourselves” worthy for God should Convent, Padumpukhuri, Dimapur had a twin be the main goal in Christian life. th celebration on 7 October 2017. They felicitated Dr. T.M Lotha in his short speech Rev. Sr. Sheeba Paul on the occasion of the expressed happiness to be part of the celebration Silver Jubilee of her Religious Profession and and expressed satisfaction for the work done commemorated the Platinum Jubilee of the by the parish priest, Catholic Church members, congregation MSMHC. Most Rev. Bishop James church building committee members and the Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima presided over the Holy church council members. He also called upon Mass. He thanked and congratulated Sr. Sheeba the gathering to renew their life for better with as she achieved the years of grace. He also the dedication of the new church. Further, Lotha applauded the missionary endeavour of the said “if we know God and live as per his ways, Congregation in Diocese and to the Church in love for others would bring forth in abundance general. He reiterated the history of the MSMHC and the society will bear fruit”. in his homily and encouraged the sisters to revive Earlier, the felicitation programme was the spirit of missionary zeal and vision of their chaired by CBC secretary Samuel Ezung, a brief founder. After the Holy Eucharist the staff and history of the building was delivered by CBC students St. Mary’s Hr. Sec. School staged a convener, Khothungo Dominic Ezung and vote quality items to express festal and congratulate of thanks by catechist Thungdemo Timothy the Jubilarian. The event culminated with a Ezung. The programme concluded with a common meal. - Correspondent benediction by sister superior Longsa parish. - Correspondent St. Peter’s Church, Longsa re-dedicated NEISSR Observed its Second Foundation- LONGSA: St. Peter’s Church, Longsa was re- cum-Graduation Day dedicated on October 8 by the most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, bishop of Nagaland as the main DIMAPUR: North East Institute of Social celebrant and adviser Treasuries and Accounts, Sciences and Research (NEISSR) observed its LM and CP, Dr. T.M Lotha as special guest. second foundation-cum-graduation day, Bishop in his homily urged them to rebuild Wednesday, at DBIDL Hall, Don Bosco Hr. Sec. their spiritual life and opined that the physical School Campus, Dimapur in the presence of structure mattered however, spiritual life was vice-chancellor of Nagaland University Prof. the most important. He therefore asked the Pardeshi Lal as chief guest. faithful to “recognise the real person of Jesus Speaking at the programme, chief guest and be grateful to the person called in his speech said that it was time for the student Jesus”. Emphasising on the renewal of the to give back to the society with the skills they Sharing: August - October 2017 32 NEWS - Diocese MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE • Mr. Varkeychan (88 Years), father of Sr. Mary Varanath (Superior of Pungro) passed away on 12.06.17. • Mrs. Anna (94 years) mother of Sr. Daisy FCC (Ave Maria Centre Zadima) died on 13.06.2017 • Mr. Lhinyizo Linus, (93 years) (Zelome Village) father of Rev. Fr. Patrick Neikhalo have acquired during their courses. passed away on 16/06/17. He encouraged the students to be ready • Mr. Sebastian Shürho-o Solo, (75 years) to face problems associated with society, mental Assistant Catechist of Cathedral Church health of people and others through innovative passed away on 18/06/2017. handling of solutions. • Mr. Mathew, father of Sr. Jiji Mathew “Problems differ from society to society MSMHC, (Cheibophozo) died on and they are never the same or permanent 27.06.2017. everywhere and it is the job of sociologists to • Mrs. Antonyammal, the eldest sister of come up with strategies to solve the problems Fr. C. Joseph (St. Joseph’s Colldge, in different ways while at the same time observe Jakhama) passed away on 27/06/2017. the changing trends of the societies, predict • Mr. Thomas Rongmei, former catechist problems in future” he said. of St. Xavier Church, Jalukie and Our Lady Advising the students on solutions, he of Lourds Church, Diphupar A, (75 years) said that half of the problems in society could be father of Sr. Agnes Rongmei UFS solved with a smile and an intact morality. Lal (laxmicherra Agartala) passed away on asked them to be realistic at the end of the day 2nd July, 2017. about what they ought to do and what they have • Mr. Kuriachan, father of Sr.Rosily actually achieved and to keep adapting. Mandapathil SABS (Jakhama Superior) Altogether, 43 trainees from the batch of passed away on 8th July 2017. 2015-17 were recognized and conferred the • Fr. Ciriac, (75 years) brother of Sr. Mary degree of MSW on the auspicious event. Alex MMS, (Chumukedima) expired on 16th Earlier, the programme was chaired by July 2017 in Chennai. Akangkokla Namo and Linoto P. Awomi, • Mrs.Chinnamma Thomas Vattamthottyil, invocation prayer was pronounced by Holy Cross eldest sister of Fr.Mathew Thuniampral Church, Dimapur parish priest Rev. Fr. P.J. (Nuiland) passed away on 27th July Thomas, welcome address was delivered by 2017. NEISSR principal Dr. Fr. CP Anto where he • Sr. Desales Kootumkal, (MMS) Medical asked the out-going students to set trends in Mission Sister, who had been in Kohima the society like what Gandhi, Keats and others (Christ King Parish) in the early 1970s died had done and be “self-starters” rather than “kick- on 1st August 2017. starters”. • Mr. George Lojamo (81) father of Sr. th Thomas Kikon, also the chairman of Rensali FMA, passed away on 29 July Lotha Hoho Dimapur spoke on behalf of the 2017. governing board. • Mrs.Elizabeth (84) mother of Sr Annie Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of kalapura FCC (vice Provincial) passed th Kohima and chairman of NEISSR delivered the away on 5 August 2017. chairman’s message and vote of thanks was • The Father of Sr. Grace Perumpanany SABS, delivered by administrator and vice-principal, the Superior General of SABS Congregation th Rev. Fr. John Poji. - Fr. C. P Anto passed away on 8 August 2017. Sharing: August - October 2017 33 • Mr. Dominic Yasokie Mera, (President, PRAYER FOR SOULS Angami Catholic Union) passed away on 24th August 2017. My God! I recommend to Thee • Mr. Jonas Osga (38 Years), brother of Sr. the souls of my relations, my Agnes osga, SCCG passed away on 24th benefactors, my friends and August 2017. my enemies, and of those • Mrs. Arangle Paulina, Aunt of Fr. Dominic (Chumukedima) passed away on 25th who are in Purgatory on my August 2017. account. • Mr. Rheo John Dukru, father of Sr. R. Rose Dukru BS, passed away on 26th I recommend to Thee the August, 2017. souls of evangelical • Mr. Joseph (90 years), father of Fr. C. J Jaison, (Cathedral) passed away on labourers, 05.09.2017. of Religious and priests, • Mr. Stephen Humtsoe, Catechist of and especially of those who St. Paul’s Church, Wokha passed away on had charge of my soul. 7th September 2017. (He has been serving the church for the last 20 years). • Mr. Peter, father of Sr. Anita Tirkey (CMC) I recommend to Thee the Provincial house, Dimapur passed on souls of those 8.09.17. who were most devout to the • Mr. Tepuhopi Roche Rolnu, 78 years, passion of Our Lord, father of Sr. Adu Celine, BS (Italy) passed to the Blessed Sacrament, away on 9/09/17. • Mr. S. Lourdusamy, 72 years, elder to the Blessed Virgin Mary, brother of Fr. S. Devaraj , (Tesophenyu) the souls who are most died on 09/09/17. abandoned, • Mrs. E. J. Peters, (98 yrs) mother of Sr. those who suffer most, Dorothy Vogt FMA, expired on 12th and those who are nearest to September in Bangalore. • Rev. Fr. MATHEW KEEMATTAM former the entrance into paradise. Vicar General and Parish Priest of Chiephobzou), died on 20th September at Bethel Medical Centre, Kohima.

Lt. Rita Haorei of Leingangching village was denied burial by the village authorities for being a Catholic. Her mortal remains was laid to rest after 40 days.

Sharing: August - October 2017 34 World News We Don’t Earn God’s Love - It’s Freely “Many people today,” he said, “look for Given, Pope Francis Says visibility only to fill an inner void: as if we were people eternally in need of confirmation. But, imagine it, a world where everyone begs for reasons to attract the attention of others, and no one is willing to love one another for free?” “Imagine a world like this: a world without the freedom to love! It looks like a humane world, but in reality it is a living hell.” How much selfish and narcissistic behavior comes about because of this loneliness, he asked. When a child is not loved or does not feel loved, he said, this is when in adolescence they can start to act out, or even become violent. Behind this behavior “is often a VATICAN CITY: On Wednesday, Pope Francis heart that has not been recognized.” said that God’s love isn’t something we earn or What can we do to help people know deserve by our good works, but that it is free they are loved by God? Francis said that when and unconditional – no matter what. love is given and received freely between people, “God’s first step towards us is that of an even in just a simple look or smile, this is what anticipated and unconditional love. God loves transforms sadness and loneliness into first,” Pope Francis said June 14. happiness and joy. “God does not love us because there is An exchange of glance, of smiles, has some reason that causes love. God loves us the power to open those closed in sadness, he because He Himself is love, and love tends to said. By looking someone in the eyes, we can spread and give by its nature. God does not open the doors of someone’s heart. even tie his benevolence to our conversion: if “What can make us happy if not the anything this is a consequence of God’s love.” experience of love given and received?” he said, “Saint Paul says it perfectly,” he continued: “‘God Just like in the story of the Prodigal Son, fathers demonstrates his love for us in the fact that and mothers are often one of the greatest while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us’ examples of a Christ-like love on earth, the Pope (Rm 5:8).” pointed out, explaining how he has known many “None of us can live without love,” the mothers with children in prison, who continue Pope said, but to believe that love is earned is day after day to visit them, never ceasing “to to fall into a type of slavery. “Perhaps much of suffer for her child.” the anguish of contemporary man comes from Parents love their children even when they this: to believe that unless we are strong, are sinners and “God does the same thing with attractive and beautiful, then no one will take us: we are his beloved children! But is it possible care of us.” God has some children he does not love? No. “Behind such seemingly inexplicable We are all God’s beloved children.” behavior arises a question,” he continued: “is it “In Him, in Christ Jesus, we have been possible that I do not deserve to be called by loved, beloved, desired. There is Someone who name? That is, to be loved?” has engraved in us a primordial beauty, that no Pope Francis reflected on this question sin, no wrong choice will ever erase completely.” during the general audience Wednesday, Because of the heat, Pope Francis began the considering what it is like when we do not audience by stopping to greet the sick and their recognize that we are loved and cherished by families in the Pope Paul VI hall, where they God or the people around us, especially as could watch and hear the audience on screens, children. but inside the air-conditioned building. Sharing: August - October 2017 35 World News “But we all remain together connected by the The Statues of the Pontifical Academy Holy Spirit, who is the one who always creates for Life, revised every five years, were last unity,” he said. revised Nov. 5, 2016, leading to the Pope’s usual Concluding, Francis asked the crowd: review and confirmation of current members, “What is the medicine to change the heart of a as well as new appointments. person who is not happy?” As head of the Knights of Columbus, “Love!” the crowd responded. “Stronger!” Anderson is the chief executive officer and he said. “Love!” they shouted louder. “Very good, chairman of the board. He was elected supreme very good, everyone,” the Pope said smiling. knight in 2000, and earlier served as supreme - CNA secretary and state deputy of the District of Columbia. Carl Anderson Among Appointments to He was first appointed to the Pontifical Pontifical Academy for Life Academy for Life in 1998 by St. John Paul II. The Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal order, was founded in New Haven, Conn., in 1882 by Venerable Michael J. McGivney, a parish priest. It has 1.8 million members worldwide who perform volunteer service and advance the order’s key principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. The Pontifical Academy for Life is a team of scientists and ethicists representing different branches of biomedical sciences who are appointed by the Holy Father to work with Vatican dicasteries to discuss issues related to VATICAN CITY: On Tuesday the Vatican science and the protection of the dignity of human life. announced that Carl A. Anderson, Supreme In total, Pope Francis has either appointed Knight of the Knights of Columbus, has been or confirmed 50 members to the Academy. appointed by Pope Francis as a member of the Those also from the U.S. are: John M. Pontifical Academy for Life. Haas, president of the National Catholic Bioethics “I am honored to have been appointed to Center in Philadelphia; Kathleen M. Foley, M.D., the Pontifical Academy for Life by Pope Francis. attending neurologist in the Pain and Palliative The issue of the sanctity of life has been a priority Care Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering for the Knights of Columbus, and for me personally,” Cancer Center and professor of neurology, Anderson said in a statement June 13. neuroscience, and clinical pharmacology at Weill Anderson said that in their work they have Cornell Medicine of Cornell University; Ignatius taken Pope Francis’ words John Keown, professor of Christian ethics at in Laudatosi’ and Evangeliigaudium as a guide, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.; and that “among the vulnerable for whom the Church Daniel Sulmasy, professor of bioethics at wishes to care with particular love and concern Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. are unborn children, the most defenseless and Other lay members named to the innocent among us.” Academy are: Etsuko Akiba; NiggelBiggar; “I look forward to working with Pope Francesco D’Agostino; Bruno Dallapiccola; Jokin Francis and the Pontifical Academy for Life in de Irala Estevez; Mounir Abdel supporting an authentic human ecology and MessihShehataFarag; Rodrigo Guerre Lopez; building a culture of life based on a proper AlicjaGrzeskowiak; Mohamed Haddad; understanding of the right to life and the dignity KostantinosKornarakis; Katarina Le Blanc; Alain of each person,” he concluded. F. G. Lejeune; Jean-Marie Le Mene; Sharing: August - October 2017 36 World News MónicaLopexBarahona; Ivan Luts; Manfred Lutz; Pope Francis: It is a Sin Not to Pray For Anne-Marie Pelletier; Adrian Messina; Alejandro Rulers César Serani Merlo; Avraham Steinberg; JaroslavSturma; William F. Sullivan; Fernando Pope Francis, during the morning Mass at Szlajen; Marie-Jo Thiel; Angelo Vescovi; Alberto Santa Marta Residence on September 18, said Villani; Shinya Yamanaka; and René Zamora that it is “a sin not to pray for rulers”. Marin. In his homily the Holy Father commented on Clergy named are: Archbishop Anthony the day’s Readings, where Saint Paul recom- Colin Fisher of Sydney (Australia); Fr. Aníbal Gil mends supplications and prayers “for kings and Lopes; Bishop Daniel NlanduMayi of Matadi all who are in high positions”. (Democratic Republic of the Congo); Mons. The pope said that there can be no excuses LuñoÁngel Rodriguez; Bishop Noël Simard of when it comes to our responsibility to pray for Valleyfield (Canada); Mons. Jacques leaders. For example, we cannot say “’No, I KoudoubiSimpore; Fr. Tomi Thomas; Bishop didn’t vote for him . . . let him do what he wants.’ Alberto German Bochatey, auxiliary bishop of No, we can’t leave rulers alone; we must ac- La Plata (Argentina); Fr. Maurizio Chiodi; company them with prayer. Christians must pray Archbishop Fernando NatalioChomaliGarib of for rulers. ‘But Father, how can one pray for one Concepcion (Chile); Fr. Roberto Colombo; and who’s done so many bad things?’ He has even Cardinal Willem JacobusEijk of Utrecht greater need. Pray, do penance for the ruler.” (Netherlands). The pope also challenged leaders to pray, The Pope has also named and confirmed saying that he who “does not pray, shuts him- five honorary members of the Academy: self in his self-reference or in that of his party, in Cardinal Carlo Caffarra, archbishop emeritus of this circle that one can’t get out of; he is a man Bologna, past president of the Pontifical John closed in on himself.” Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and He referred to the need for rulers to have Family; Bishop lgnacio Carrasco de Paula, “consciousness of subordination” and to remem- president emeritus of the Pontifical Academy for ber that there are others who have more power Life (Spain); Birthe Lejeune, vice president of than him, namely God and those who gave him the Jéróme Lejeune Foundation, Paris; widow the power. He called on rulers to pray for the of the first president of the Pontifical Academy common good and even suggested that those for Life, the Servant of God Jérôme Lejeune; who feel unable to pray must “consult their con- Cardinal ElioSgreccia, president emeritus of the science” and “not remain alone with the small Pontifical Academy for Life; President of the group of your party.” International Federation of Centers and Institutes The pope’s call to pray for those in authority of Bioethics of the Personalist School, President is a very important one. Here in Scotland, we of the UtVitamHabeant Foundation (Vatican can think of our elected representatives in the City); and Juan de Dios Vial Correa, president Scottish and UK Parliaments, as well as those emeritus of the Pontifical Academy for Life and in local authorities and civil servants. As the pope rector emeritus of the Pontificia Universidad suggests, if we don’t already do it, why not take Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile (Chile). five minutes today to pray for all of those in - CNA authority, that they will work for the common good of our nation and the wider world. We can make our prayers through the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, to whom our nation was recently consecrated. - CNA Keep smiling and oneday life will get tire of upsetting you. Sharing: August - October 2017 37 World News MESSAGE OF POPE FRANCIS FOR WORLD MISSION DAY 2017 Mission at the heart of the Christian faith Dear Brothers and Sisters, in spirit and truth (cf. Jn 4:23-24), through a Once again this year, World Mission Day life guided by the Holy Spirit in imitation of gathers us around the person of Jesus, “the very Jesus the Son to the glory of God the Father. first and greatest evangelizer” (Paul “The glory of God is the living man” VI, EvangeliiNuntiandi, 7), who continually sends (Irenaeus, AdversusHaereses IV, 20, 7). The us forth to proclaim the Gospel of the love of preaching of the Gospel thus becomes a vital God the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit. and effective word that accomplishes what it This Day invites us to reflect anew on the mission proclaims (cf. Is 55:10-11): Jesus Christ, who at the heart of the Christian faith. The Church is constantly takes flesh in every human situation missionary by nature; otherwise, she would no (cf. Jn 1:14). longer be the Church of Christ, but one group among many others that soon end up serving Mission and the kairos of Christ their purpose and passing away. So it is important 3. The Church’s mission, then, is not to spread to ask ourselves certain questions about our a religious ideology, much less to propose a Christian identity and our responsibility as lofty ethical teaching. Many movements believers in a world marked by confusion, throughout the world inspire high ideals or disappointment and frustration, and torn by ways to live a meaningful life. Through the numerous fratricidal wars that unjustly target the mission of the Church, Jesus Christ himself innocent. What is the basis of our mission? What continues to evangelize and act; her mission is the heart of our mission? What are thus makes present in history the kairos, the the essential approaches we need to take in favourable time of salvation. Through the carrying out our mission? proclamation of the Gospel, the risen Jesus becomes our contemporary, so that those Mission and the transformative power of the who welcome him with faith and love can Gospel of Christ, the Way, the Truth and the experience the transforming power of his Life Spirit, who makes humanity and creation 1. The Church’s mission, directed to all men and fruitful, even as the rain does with the earth. women of good will, is based on the “His resurrection is not an event of the past; it transformative power of the Gospel. The contains a vital power which has permeated Gospel is Good News filled with contagious this world. Where all seems to be dead, signs joy, for it contains and offers new life: the life of the resurrection suddenly spring up. It is an of the Risen Christ who, by bestowing his irresistible force” (EvangeliiGaudium, 276). life-giving Spirit, becomes for us the Way, the 4. Let us never forget that “being Christian is not Truth and the Life (cf. Jn 14:6). He is the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, the Way who invites us to follow him with but the encounter with an event, a Person, confidence and courage. In following Jesus which gives life a new horizon and a decisive as our Way, we experience Truth and receive direction” (Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est,1). his Life, which is fullness of communion with The Gospel is a Person who continually offers God the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit. himself and constantly invites those who That life sets us free from every kind of receive him with humble and religious faith to selfishness, and is a source of creativity in love. share his life by an effective participation in 2. God the Father desires this existential the paschal mystery of his death and transformation of his sons and daughters, a resurrection. Through Baptism, the Gospel transformation that finds expression in worship becomes a source of new life, freed of the Sharing: August - October 2017 38 World News dominion of sin, enlightened and transformed mission inspires a sense of constant exile, to by the Holy Spirit. Through Confirmation, it make us aware, in our thirst for the infinite, becomes a fortifying anointing that, through that we are exiles journeying towards our final the same Spirit, points out new ways and home, poised between the “already” and “not strategies for witness and accompaniment. yet” of the Kingdom of Heaven. Through the Eucharist, it becomes food for 7. Mission reminds the Church that she is not an new life, a “medicine of immortality” (Ignatius end unto herself, but a humble instrument and of Antioch, Ad Ephesios, 20, 2). mediation of the Kingdom. A self-referential 5. The world vitally needs the Gospel of Jesus Church, one content with earthly success, is Christ. Through the Church, Christ continues not the Church of Christ, his crucified and his mission as the Good Samaritan, caring glorious Body. That is why we should prefer for the bleeding wounds of humanity, and “a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty as Good Shepherd, constantly seeking out because it has been out on the streets, rather those who wander along winding paths that than a Church which is unhealthy from being lead nowhere. Thank God, many significant confined and from clinging to its own security” experiences continue to testify to the (ibid., 49). transformative power of the Gospel. I think Young people, the hope of mission of the gesture of the Dinka student who, at 8. Young people are the hope of mission. The the cost of his own life, protected a student person of Jesus Christ and the Good News from the enemy Nuer tribe who was about to he proclaimed continue to attract many young be killed. I think of that Eucharistic celebration people. They seek ways to put themselves in Kitgum, in northern Uganda, where, after with courage and enthusiasm at the service brutal massacres by a rebel group, a of humanity. “There are many young people missionary made the people repeat the words who offer their solidarity in the face of the of Jesus on the cross: “My God, My God, evils of the world and engage in various forms why have you abandoned me?” as an of militancy and volunteering... How beautiful expression of the desperate cry of the it is to see that young people are ‘street brothers and sisters of the crucified Lord. For preachers’, joyfully bringing Jesus to every the people, that celebration was an immense street, every town square and every corner source of consolation and courage. We can of the earth!” (ibid., 106). The next Ordinary think too of countless testimonies to how the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, Gospel helps to overcome narrowness, to be held in 2018 on the theme Young People, conflict, racism, tribalism, and to promote the Faith and Vocational Discernment, everywhere, and among all, reconciliation, represents a providential opportunity to involve fraternity, and sharing. young people in the shared missionary Mission inspires a spirituality of constant responsibility that needs their rich imagination exodus, pilgrimage, and exile and creativity. 6. The Church’s mission is enlivened by a The service of the Pontifical Mission spirituality of constant exodus. We are Societies challenged “to go forth from our own comfort 9. The Pontifical Mission Societies are a precious zone in order to reach all the peripheries in means of awakening in every Christian need of the light of the Gospel” community a desire to reach beyond its own (EvangeliiGaudium, 20). The Church’s confines and security in order to proclaim the mission impels us to undertake a constant Gospel to all. In them, thanks to a profound pilgrimage across the various deserts of life, missionary spirituality, nurtured daily, and a through the different experiences of hunger constant commitment to raising missionary and thirst for truth and justice. The Church’s awareness and enthusiasm, young people, adults, families, priests, bishops and men and Sharing: August - October 2017 39 World News women religious work to develop a missionary Pope Francis canonized 35 new saints heart in everyone. World Mission Day, promoted by the Society of the Propagation VATICAN CITY: On Sunday, Pope Francis of the Faith, is a good opportunity for enabling canonized 35 new saints in the Catholic Church, the missionary heart of Christian communities saying that no matter how often we reject him, to join in prayer, testimony of life and the Lord will continue to love us and invite us to communion of goods, in responding to the participate in his heavenly banquet. vast and pressing needs of evangelization. “The Gospel tells us that, even before constant rejection and indifference on the part Carrying out our mission with Mary, Mother of those whom he invites, God does not cancel of Evangelization the wedding feast. He does not give up, but 10. Dear brothers and sisters, in carrying out continues to invite,” the Pope said Oct. 15. our mission, let us draw inspiration from Mary, “When he hears a ‘no,’ he does not close Mother of Evangelization. Moved by the Spirit, the door, but broadens the invitation. In the face she welcomed the Word of life in the depths of wrongs, he responds with an even greater of her humble faith. May the Virgin Mother love.” help us to say our own “yes”, conscious of Francis explained that when we are hurt the urgent need to make the Good News of by others, we often harbor grudges and Jesus resound in our time. May she obtain resentment. But God, on the other hand, while for us renewed zeal in bringing to everyone pained by our rejection of him, does not give up. the Good News of the life that is victorious He tries again and again. over death. May she intercede for us so that “He keeps doing good even for those who we can acquire the holy audacity needed to do evil. Because this is what love does. Because discover new ways to bring the gift of salvation this is the only way that evil is defeated,” the to every man and woman. Pope said. “Today our God, who never abandons From the Vatican, 4 June 2017 hope, tells us to do what he does, to live in true Solemnity of Pentecost love, to overcome resignation and the whims of our peevish and lazy selves.” In a Mass with 35,000 pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis canonized 35 new saints, including Cristobal, Antonio and Juan, three teenage boys from the 16th century in Mexico, who were beaten to death after converting to Catholicism. “...we declare and define Andre de Soveral, Ambrosio Francisco Ferro, Mateo Moreira and 27 companions; Cristobal, Antonio and Juan; Faustino Miguez; and Angelo of Acri to be Saints,” Francis stated. “And we enroll them among the Saints, decreeing that they are to be venerated as such by the whole Church.” In his homily, Pope Francis reflected on the day’s Gospel from Matthew, in which Jesus tells the parable of the wedding feast to explain the Kingdom of God. In the parable, guests are invited by the king to the wedding feast of his son. Sharing: August - October 2017 40 “Such is the Christian life, a love story with God,” He then began to share the Gospel with his family the Pope said. “The Lord freely takes the and acquaintances in an effort to convert them, initiative,” inviting, not a select few, but everyone especially his father who had abusive habits and to participate in his Kingdom. was frequently drunk. “The Christian life is always born and One day, after Cristobal destroyed the reborn of this tender, special and privileged love,” pagan idols in his family’s home, his father began he said. to kick and beat him, breaking his arms and legs. The Pope pointed out that some people, The boy continued to pray, despite the intense however, ignore the invitation and instead pain, so his father threw him into a burning fire, continue to go about doing their own thing. killing him. In the Gospel passage, each person “was The boy Antonio and his young servant concerned with his own affairs; this is the key to Juan, all born in the same town as Cristobal, understanding why they refused the invitation,” helped the Dominican missionaries who were he continued. The guests weren’t worried about setting up a mission in a nearby town as being bored or annoyed, they simply did not care. interpreters for the other indigenous people. “They were more interested in having The boys were warned that it was a task something rather than in risking something, as that could likely end in death, but still volunteered love demands,” he said. In the Gospel, then, we to go. One day, while entering a house to destroy are being asked where we stand: with God or the pagan idols as usual, angry townspeople with ourselves, Francis stated. “Because God approached and began beating Juan to death is the opposite of selfishness, of self-absorption.” with sticks. We should ask ourselves if at least once a day Antonio turned to the aggressors and we tell the Lord that we love him. Among all the asked, “Why do you beat my companion who things we say each day, there should also be has no fault? It is I who collect idols, because the prayer, “Lord, I love you’ you are my life,” he they are diabolical and not divine.” The people said. then turned to Antonio, also beating him to death. Because without love, and without a The blood of the three boys is considered relationship with Christ, the Christian life becomes the first seed of the great growth of Catholicism empty and dead; merely a collection of rules in the country of Mexico. and laws with no good reason for obedience. Martyrs Andre de Soveral and Ambrosio “The God of life, however, awaits a response of Francisco Ferro, diocesan priests, were killed life. The Lord of love awaits a response of love.” in hatred of the faith in Brazil on July 16, 1645; Today’s newly canonized saints all responded Mateo Moreira, a layman, and 27 fellow martyrs, to God with love, he explained. As the Gospel were also killed in hatred of the faith in Brazil on emphasizes, it is not enough to merely respond October 3, 1645. “yes” to God’s invitation one time, and then do Manuel Miguez Gonzalez, who took the nothing. religious name Faustino of the Incarnation, was “Day by day, we have to put on the a priest and a professed member of the Piarists wedding garment, the ‘habit’ of practicing love,” (the Order of Poor Clerics Regular of the Mother he said. of God of the Pious Schools). He lived from 1831- The newly canonized saints, especially 1925 in Spain. the many martyrs, are an example of this daily Angelo of Acri, a priest of the Order of habit of choosing to love God and choosing to Friars Minor Capuchins, lived in Italy from 1669- do his will, he pointed out. 1739. Cristobal, Antonio and Juan lived in Concluding his homily, the Pope urged Mexico in the 16th century, at the start of the everyone to ask the Lord, “through the Christian missionary work in the country. intercession of the saints, our brothers and Cristobal was educated in the Christian faith by sisters,” for the grace to make a habit of love, Franciscan missionaries, asking to be baptized. Sharing: August - October 2017 41 accepting God’s invitation to the wedding feast. captivity, but “every day inside, in my heart, I repeated We should also ask for his help in keeping our the words of the celebration.” wedding clothes “spotless.” The priest remarked that he would continue to pray “for “How can we do this?” Francis asked. all those who were beside me spiritually,” and offered a “Above all, by approaching the Lord fearlessly special word of remembrance for the 16 people who died in order to receive his forgiveness. This is the during the attack in which he was kidnapped. one step that counts, for entering into the He also offered thanks to the government of wedding hall to celebrate with him the feast of Oman, in particular Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, and love.” - CNA to the Holy See for their role in brokering his release. On his part, Pope Francis embraced Fr. Tom to Pope Francis: I offered my Fr. Uzhunnalil and told him that he would continue to suffering for you and the Church pray for him, as he had every day while the priest was VATICAN CITY: After 18 months of captivity, Indian priest imprisoned. Visibly moved, the Pope then gave the priest Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil shared an emotional meeting with his blessing, L’Osservatore Romano reported. Pope Francis, saying that throughout his time as a Fr. Uzhunnalil was accompanied by Cardinal prisoner, he offered his suffering for the Pope and the Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay and a member Church. of the Pope’s Council of Cardinal advisers. According to a Sept. 13 article published in the In comments to L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano, the encounter cardinal said that after this “terrible experience, the took place at the Pope’s residence in the Vatican’s St essential message that Tom is about to convey is that Martha guesthouse immediately after the general ‘Jesus is great and loves us.’” audience on Wednesday. He recalled the words of the priest, who after Photos of the encounter show an emotional being released said, “Truly, every day I felt Jesus next to scene as Fr. Uzhunnalil bends down to kiss the Pope’s me, I always knew and felt in my heart that I was not feet, after which the Pope tenderly gives the priest his alone.” blessing. Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime, Major Rector of the While Fr. Uzhunnalil appeared with an overgrown Salesian order, said Fr. Uzhunnalil arrived to their beard in the majority of photos published during his time community around 6 p.m. Sept. 12, having flown to in captivity, today’s pictures show him clean-shaven and Rome directly from the Muscat airport in Oman.He said dressed in clerics. Fr. Uzhunnalil will stay with them for a few days in order According to L’Osservatore Romano, to ensure that he has medical treatment and time to Fr. Uzhunnalil thanked the Pope, saying “(I) prayed for rest, and also “to be able to embrace him in the name of you every day, offering my suffering for your mission all brother Salesians and the entire Salesian family.” and for the good of the Church.” These words, the The rector offered his thanks to the various parties newspaper reports, moved the Pope to tears. involved in securing Fr. Uzhunnalil’s release, as well as A Salesian missionary, Fr. Uzhunnalil first all those who kept the priest in their prayers. garnered the world’s attention when he was kidnapped Fr. Uzhunnalil’s freedom, he said, “is a motivation March 4, 2016, during an attack on a Missionaries of to continue to respond in the future with utmost fidelity Charity home in Aden, Yemen, that left 16 people dead, and authenticity to the call and to the charism he has including four Sisters. entrusted to us, and to which Fr. Tom has given his life: His international profile grew when rumors spread that the announcement of Jesus and his Gospel, preaching he was to be crucified on Good Friday, which were later to young boys, girls and youth throughout the world, discredited. After that, numerous photos and videos were among them, the poor and abandoned.” - CNA released depicting Fr. Uzhunnalil, thin and with an “For me prayer is a surge of the heart, it is a overgrown beard, pleading for help and for his release, simple look towards Heaven, it is a cry of saying that his health was deteriorating and he was in recognition and of love, embracing both trial and need of hospitalization. joy.” In comments to L’Osservatore Romano, - St. Therese of Lisieux Fr. Uzhunnalil said he couldn’t celebrate Mass while in Sharing: August - October 2017 42 Sharing: August - October 2017 43 Sharing: August - October 2017 44