Message from the Shepherd.

Dear Friends, First of all I take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a blessed and grace-filled Easter season, a season when we continue to live and experience the grace of the resurrection, the core and fulcrum of Christian faith. As we remembered and lived the suffering and passion of Jesus during the Holy Week, we felt a sense of hatred and hostility to the Pharisees, Scribes and leaders of the Jews who planned and executed the death of Jesus. Evil seems to have triumphed. Good people felt a despondency that bordered discouragement and despair. Handful of good people, including the disciples of Jesus tried to take shelter by hiding. Today many people in the world are seemingly living the same type of discouragement and high degree of despair. There is feeling of total despondency because the evils that are taking place around us: in our state, in our country, in our neighbouring countries and the whole world. There is a systematic attempt to exterminate and wipe out Christians and Christianity from the face of the earth, led by ISIS. News of nerve wrecking and chilling instances of assassination of Christians in social media make us numb. Conversely, materialistic and hedonistic, atheistic and secularist philosophy that is aggressively propagated is corroding the basic human and Christian values and principles. Evil seems to have total control and sway in the world today. But evil could not and will not have the ultimate and final word. The evils carried out on Good Friday will always be defeated. Easter will be the final word in the battle between good and evil. This was the core message of Pope Francis during his Urbi et Orbi Blessing this year. Here I quote few sentences from Pope Francis. “The glorious Easter message, that Jesus, who was crucified is not here but risen (cf. Mt 28:5-6), offers us the comforting assurance that the abyss of death has been bridged and, with it, all mourning, lamentation and pain (cf. Rev 21:4)…Our world is full of persons suffering in body and spirit, even as the daily news is full of stories of brutal crimes which often take place within homes, and large-scale armed conflicts which cause indescribable suffering to entire peoples… The Lord Jesus, our peace (Eph 2:14), by his resurrection triumphed over evil and sin. May he draw us closer on this Easter feast to the victims of terrorism, that blind and brutal form of violence which continues to shed blood in different parts of the world, as in the recent attacks in Belgium, Turkey, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Iraq (even in Pakistan – my addition)…With the weapons of love, God has defeated selfishness and death. His son Jesus is the door of mercy wide open to all...The Easter message of the risen Christ, a message of life for all humanity, echoes down the ages and invites us not to forget those men and women seeking a better future, an ever more numerous throng of

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ migrants and refugees – including many children – fleeing from war, hunger, poverty and social injustice. All too often, these brothers and sisters of ours meet along the way with death or, in any event, rejection by those who could offer them welcome and assistance. May the forthcoming World Humanitarian Summit not fail to be centred on the human person and his or her dignity, and to come up with policies capable of assisting and protecting the victims of conflicts and other emergencies, especially those who are most vulnerable and all those persecuted for ethnic and religious reasons… Along with our brothers and sisters persecuted for their faith and their fidelity to the name of Christ, and before the evil that seems to have the upper hand in the life of so many people, let us hear once again the comforting words of the Lord: ”Take courage; I have conquered the world! (Jn 16:33)… To those in our society who have lost all hope and joy in life, to the elderly who struggle alone and feel their strength waning, to young people who seem to have no future, to all I once more address the words of the Risen One: “See, I am making all things new… To the thirsty I will give water as a gift from the spring of the water of life” (Rev 21:5-6). May this comforting message of Jesus help each of us to set out anew with greater courage and greater hope to blaze trails of reconciliation with God and with all our brothers and sisters. Of which we have great need!” Such has been the triumphant reply of people who has experienced the victory Jesus in the midst of personal suffering and tragedies. When Mr. Graham Stains, the Australian Christian missionary and his two sons were burnt alive in Orissa, on January 23, 1999, his widowed wife and his daughter who had to live such a colossal tragedy, expressed their faith in the new life and victory of good, when they sang in the memorial celebration: “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is gone; because I know He holds the future and life is worth living – just because He lives”.

Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil Bishop of Kohima

Releasing Soon!! The much awaited Post-Synodal Exhortation on Family titled, “Amoris Laetitia” (The Joy of Love: On Love in the Family) will be released on 8th April 2016.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Editor’s Note... Dear Readers, We are Easter People. Alleluia having been changed), according is our song! Easter is the Feast of all to Catholic teaching, into the body feasts. Our faith is founded on the truth and blood of Jesus Christ, then, that the tomb was empty. Over a span question comes, What is your of six weeks, Jesus appeared to a faith on the Sacrament of Christ variety of groups of various sizes in Body and Blood? Well, the Gospel of Matthew different locations. He appeared to tells us: While they were eating at the last super, over 500 at one point – a huge number Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and to be an outright fabrication. Not to giving it to his disciples said, “Take and eat; this mention, the people whom He is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, appeared to didn’t just see Him, but and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of ate with Him, walked with Him, you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which touched Him. Jesus even made will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness breakfast (John 21:9) at one point. This of sins.” (Mt 26:26-28; cf. Mk 14:22-24, Lk 22:17- is the basis of our faith and which gives 20, 1 Cor 11:23-25) hope and meaning to our life. We are Recalling these words of Jesus, the therefore invited to live firmly rooting Catholic Church professes that, in the celebration ourselves on Jesus who has risen to of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body experience Joy, peace, love and hope and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of in our life. the Holy Spirit and the instrumentality of the priest. One of the major feasts which Jesus said: “I am the living bread that came down the church will be commemorated after from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live Easter is the Feast of Body and blood forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh of Christ on Sunday, 29th May, 2016. for the life of the world. . . . For my flesh is true We, who participate in every Eucharist, food, and my blood is true drink” (Jn 6:51-55). sometimes are not able to grasp The whole Christ is truly present, body, blood, mystery of the “Eucharista.” Vatican soul, and divinity, under the appearances of bread II tells us, that Eucharist is “the source and wine—the glorified Christ who rose from the and summit of the Christian life” dead after dying for our sins. This is what the (Lumen gentium, no. 11; Church means when she speaks of the “Real cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church, Presence” of Christ in the Eucharist. This presence no. 1324). Since the Christian life is of Christ in the Eucharist is called “real” not to essentially a spiritual life, we might say exclude other types of his presence as if they as well that the Eucharist is the “source could not be understood as real (cf. Catechism, and summit of Christian spirituality” no. 1374). The risen Christ is present to his Church too. The term Eucharist in the Catholic in many ways, but most especially through the Church is the celebration of Mass sacrament of his Body and Blood. using the bread and wine, it is The above questions further make us transubstantiated (their substance inquisitive. What does it mean that Jesus Christ

Sharing: April - May 2016 -3 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ is present in the Eucharist under the see what you see but did not see it, and to hear appearances of bread and wine? How what you hear but did not hear it” (Mt 13:17). does this happen? The presence of the In the Eucharist the Church both receives the risen Christ in the Eucharist is an gift of Jesus Christ and gives grateful thanks to inexhaustible mystery that the Church can God for such a blessing. This thanksgiving is never fully explain in words. We must the only proper response, for through this gift remember that the triune God is the of himself in the celebration of the Eucharist creator of all that exists and has the power under the appearances of bread and wine Christ to do more than we can possibly imagine. gives us the gift of eternal life. As St. Ambrose said: “If the word of the Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you Lord Jesus is so powerful as to bring into eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his existence things which were not, then a blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever fortiori those things which already exist eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal can be changed into something else” ( life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my De Sacramentis, IV, 5-16). God created flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink… the world in order to share his life with (Jn: 6.55) Just as the living Father sent me and I persons who are not God. This great plan have life because of the Father, so also the one of salvation reveals a wisdom that who feeds on me will have life. As we surpasses our understanding. But we are contemplate on this great a mystery, let us think not left in ignorance: for out of his love of the unfathomable love God who manifested for us, God reveals his truth to us in ways it through his Son Jesus and surrender our life that we can understand through the gift into His hands. of faith and the grace of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us and we can never completely comprehend the mystery of God. By his Real Presence in the Eucharist Christ fulfill his promise to be with us “always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). As St. Thomas Aquinas In Remembrance wrote, “It is the law of friendship that - by Katherine Karras friends should live together. . . . Christ “Take my body,” Jesus said has not left us without his bodily presence As he offered them the bread. in this our pilgrimage, but he joins us to Later, he served them wine. himself in this sacrament in the reality of It’s my blood, it will be shed. his body and blood” ( Summa You’ll remember when I’m dead Theologiae, III q. 75, a. 1). With this gift Take and drink the fruit of the vine. of Christ’s presence in our midst, the It’s for your sins I must die Church is truly blessed. As Jesus told his But on this you can rely I’ll live on into eternity. disciples, referring to his presence among When you take this bread and wine them, “Amen, I say to you, many Fill your hearts with love divine prophets and righteous people longed to In communion you are joined with me.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ BISHOP’S PROGRAMME CHIEF EDITOR April - July 2016 Fr. Thomas Toretkiu Ph.No. 09436216599 April 2016 24 - 26 Kohima 01 - 02 Kohima 27 Jalukie: SXC, GB Meeting EDITORIAL BOARD 03 Chumukedima: Parish Feast, (10.00 am) 28 To Chessore Fr. Sojan Puthankudy Mercy Sunday Fr. Richard Fernandes 04 Kohima 29 Chessore - Church Blessing: Sr. Kaisa Rosalind CMC 05 - 09 Nongstoin- Regional Bishops’ Corpus Christi Mr. Tosovi Philip Khale Meeting 30 Aghunato – Zunheboto 10 Dimapur – St. Joseph’s 31 Kohima Children’s Home MANAGEMENT STAFF June 2016 Catholic Publication Centre 11 - 14 Kohima-Sanis-Kohima-with (CPC) Bishop McKenna from 01 Kohima, Consulters’ Meeting Australia (9.30 am, BH, Kohima) PUBLISHER 15 Kohima – Meeting of the 02-30 USA : Mission Preaching Diocese of Kohima Regional Animators & Commission Chairmen (9:30 July 2016 am) Consulters’ Meeting (2:00 COVER & LAYOUT pm) 01-31 USA : Mission Preaching Flora Kent 16 Dimapur: Golden Jubilee, CONTENTS Holy Cross School Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil 17 Jakhama: Golden Jubilee - Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland . Local News Catholic Community, Vocation . Articles Sunday . Regional News 18 Kohima . World Catholic News 19 Medziphema: Blessing of New School Buildings SHARING 20 Dimapur: UFC Profession (9.30 am) Diocese of Kohima Bishop’s House 21 - 30 Kerala – Medical Treatment Post Box No, 519 Kohima - India May 2016 [email protected] 01 - 10 Spiritual Retreat email:[email protected] 11 Kohima www.kohimadiocese.org 12 Pughoboto – Priestly Ordination of Deacon Luke, OFM CAP The Sharing is published bi- 13 Akuluto: Blessing of the New monthly by the Diocese of Kohima. All the News, Church Articles, questions, reader- 14 Kohima: Finance Committee reactions etc are to be Meeting (2.30 pm, B.H. addressed to the editor. Kohima) Your articles, news item 15 Kohima: Pentecost Sunday could be submitted through 16 - 19 Kohima CD, pendrive and mail Hatred is not to be attachment. Please include 20 - 21 Kohima: Seminar for Sisters carried in the name of your name and mailing 22 Kohima: Cathedral Feast, address. Sisterhood Day God! War is not to be 23 Dimapur: FSMA Convent waged in the name of (For private circulation only) Blessing God! - Pope Francis

Sharing: April - May 2016 -5 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese it is the beginning of a new era, new life. The spring New Office EFG Dedicated season during which Easter is celebrated, the Easter egg (as the saying goes, all life comes from an egg – Omne vivum ex ovo) and the very setting of the nature explains the deepest meaning and significance of Easter. Easter is the new beginning for humankind. Easter is God’s victory over sin and death, the direct consequence of sin. Sin and evil do not have the ultimate word for man, but God has. St. Paul is very clear when he says that the last enemy to be defeated is death (cf. 1 Cori 15:20), resurrection is the greatest mystery of Christian life, who he says that if Christ has not risen we are still in our sins and the preaching of the apostles Office of the Earth Friendly Generation (EFG) in and our faith is in vain (1 Cori 15:14). Humankind can Chiephobozou town was dedicated on March 31, 2016. once again hope for a new and better life. Resurrection Rev. Fr. Vemedo Kezo, Principal of Don Bosco High is a call to change and start new, as was the case with School was called upon to pronounce the invocation Mary Magdalene, St. Peter and St. John and all apostles prayer. The following persons addressed during the and disciples. Easter is also the reason our hope today programme, namely, Ruopfükuotuo Noudi, EAC, Botsa; in the midst of all hopeless and evil situations, pain and and Vineizo Tsürho, Vice Chairman of Chiephobozou. suffering. Evil actions done by man on Good Friday will The speaker congratulated and encouraged EFG always be defeated, and Easter will be the final word in members to move forward with zeal and enthusiasm. the battle between good and evil. To those who are on EFG is one of the first initiatives for environment God’s side, victory will always be theirs. God will always protection in Nagaland. - Correspondent have the last laugh in the affairs of Men. By the Easter Celebrated in Nagaland in resurrection of Jesus, evil is overcome and death is defeated. Our sins are washed clean by the blood of Unison With the Rest of the Jesus and we can begin a new life in the friendship and Christian World fellowship of Christ. - Fr. Salew Peter Sdb Catholics Observed Good Friday

The Good Friday services were held in all the Christians in Nagaland Celebrated Easter, the greatest Parishes in the diocese with great devotion. Bishop Christian festival, with the rest of the Christian world. James Thoppil, was the main celebrant at St. Joseph’s Bishop James Thoppil presided over the vigil service Church, Chumukedima. He explained the different parts at the Cathedral Church, and was the main celebrant at of the Good Friday Service. Christ King Church, Kohima Village. The Good Friday service was preceded by the In both Churches, Easter Egg was distributed way of the cross (14 stations) around the campus. Rev. after the Holy Mass. The bishop preached the homily Fr. Sajan, Parish Priest, St. Joseph, Church, accorded taking the clue from the Easter egg. The most the words of welcome to Bishop, fathers, sisters and fundamental and deepest significance of Easter is that faithful at the start of the service.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese The bishop in his homily explained the meaning and significance of human suffering and death. Christianity did not invent suffering, he said, suffering was already in the world since time began. Christianity has given a meaning to suffering. This meaning is not that suffering is good in itself but that, in God’s providence, it is an opportunity to love – the supreme test in many instances. Suffering by itself is nothing; it is useless. But suffering shared with Christ in his passion is a wonderful gift to human life. It is the most beautiful gift for us to share in the passion of Christ, yes, and a sign of love, because Eucharist and priesthood prior to his arrest and crucifixion, His Father proved that He loved the world by giving His making himself the lamb of the new Passover to lead Son to die for us. ”Greater love than this no man has, people to the new Promised Land. This event is that he gives his life for his friends.” And so when we celebrated at every Mass, as part of the Liturgy of the suffer for Jesus, this is the greatest love, the undivided Eucharist, but it is specially commemorated on Holy love (Mother Teresa). Bishop ended his homily with a Thursday. reference to Pope Francis’ who said that the Cross is Bishop in his homily said the word Maundy also Christians’ answer to evil that continues to work in Thursday comes from the Latin word ‘mandatum’ us and around us. Christians must respond to evil with (commandment). It refers to the commandment given good, taking the Cross upon themselves as Jesus did. by Jesus at the Last Supper to love one another as he We now continue this Via Crucis in our daily lives. Let us has loved us (Jn 13:34 and 15:12). It is also a command walk together along the Way of the Cross and let us do to serve others like a humble servant by sacrificing one’s so carrying in our hearts this word of love and own life for others. Jesus’ admonition to his disciples forgiveness. Let us go forward waiting for the “You also must wash one another’s feet” (Jn 13:14) is Resurrection of Jesus, who loves us so much”. At the the same as “love one another as I have loved you.” Or end of the Good Friday service the ministers and serve one another as I have served you to the point of assembly depart in silence. - Fr. Sajan laying down my life on the cross. Bishop further said that we commemorate the Maundy Thursday Celebrated With paschal meal the Lord had with his disciples, during Washing the Feet which he established the Eucharist and the Priesthood, which are closely linked to humble service in love. Catholics all over the world celebrated Maundy Bishop, urged faithful to be grateful to our priests who Thursday or Holy Thursday with the washing of the feet. makes present the Eucharist through the exercise of their Pope Francis in Rome and bishops all over the world in priesthood, and who live and set example of love and their own Cathedral carries out the washing of the feet in service through their life of dedication and commitment. memory of what the Lord Jesus did during the last supper. After the homily, Bishop wrapped a towel around the Bishop James Thoppil was the main celebrant at the waist, poured water and washed the feet and kissed Mary Help of Christian, Cathedral, on 24th March. Rev. them in commemoration of what Jesus did. After the Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Vicar General Diocese of Kohima, celebration the Blessed Sacrament was exposed at the welcomed Bishop, fathers, sisters and faithful for the altar for the Adoration, symbolically keeping watch with celebration. Wherever priests were available the same the Lord. The various petitions of prayers were said for was celebrated in all the village and parish churches. the people, state and country. All children, youth and Bishop in his introduction said that ‘Holy parents attended the spirit filled adoration conducted by Thursday’ is the commemoration of the Last Supper of Jesus Youth. Jesus Christ, when he established the sacrament of Holy - Fr. Richard Fernandes

Sharing: April - May 2016 -7 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese The next batch of training will start on April 11, 2016. The Don Bosco Tech Graduation Day Held training is offered in three domains such as food and beverage service, beauty and wellness and beauty and hair dressing. – Correspondent Chrism Mass and Priesthood Day Celebrated at Holy Cross Parish

Graduation ceremony of 16th batch of skill development training by Don Bosco Tech at AIDA in Don Bosco School campus was held on March 24. Total 85 trainees received the graduation badge from Fr. CT The Priests of the diocese of Kohima along with Varghese, Rector and administrator of Don Bosco religious and faithful from across the Diocese filled Holy campus, Dimapur in the presence of Fr. Joshua Principal Cross Parish Church to capacity on Tuesday 22nd March, of Don Bosco Higher secondary school, Dimapur, evening for the Chrism Mass, a highlight of Holy Week, parents and Don Bosco Tech team. as Bishop James Thoppil blessed three urns of oil: oil Speaking on the occasion Fr. Varghese called of the catechumens, oil of the chrism and oil of the sick. upon the trainees to be professionals as they will have The bishop shared a personal note of appreciation for to work along with various types of people at their work his brother priests: “I want to thank you all my brother place. He said “every individual trainee has changed priests, for your faithfulness in priesthood and remarkably in all aspects after joining the institute. Here commitment in ministry. Let no one doubt, the goodness one has to undergo rigorous training by following tight of our priests, their sincerity and generous of the Church schedule; they are followed up by the trainers at all time.” with great dedication.” He also assured and expressed He encouraged the trainees to explore opportunities his support, admiration when he said, “Today I want to instead of remaining idle. assure all our priests, my dear people of God, mine Bro. Sunny Joseph, director of Don Bosco Tech, and your support, admiration and gratitude for the ministry Dimapur region congratulated the trainees for as priests.” successfully completing the skill development training The Holy Mass was followed by a short felicitation at Don Bosco Tech. He reminded the trainees that “from programme under the initiative of the Catholic Association today your status is changed from village citizens to of Nagaland (CAN). Ms. Vilanuo Angela, NCWA, who global citizens, from trainees to employees and from was the M.C for the programme, began with words of being ordinary individuals to professionals.” appreciation to the priests for their dedicated service to The batch began on January 20, 2016 with 91 trainees in the people of the diocese of Kohima. The highlights of three domains of Food and beverage service, beauty the programme included, a Choral presentation from Holy and wellness and beauty and hair dressing. Cross Parish, which was followed by words of The trainees will soon join the industries at appreciation by Mrs. Elias T. Lotha, the President of various places in the country. Earlier in the day during Catholic Association of Nagaland. He began his speech the parents’ meet the training faculty explained to the by Glorifying God for installing priesthood. He said, “we parents the job profile of the trainees at work place and are truly blessed to witness the throng of our priests shared the terms and conditions mentioned in the offer renew their commitment willingly and with renewed vigour letters. to the call of Divine and the Church.” Joining the The highlights of the programme included welcome community throughout the world and particularly of the song by trainees, welcome speech by Rouba Jonah Diocese of Kohima, he expressed gratitude on behalf and special song by Zinliang Panmei. Velu proposed of the community to all the priests for giving them spiritual the vote of thanks on behalf of the trainees. nourishment. He also took the occasion to invite the

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese priests to build a stronger working relationship between Fr. Cyril, OFM, Cap, and Fr. Jaison Thomas, Director them. The congregation followed with sustained Pastoral Centre, Dimapur. A total of 89 youth participated applause in gratitude for the ministry of the priests. the programme. - Fr. John Lichoi Fr. Dr. Jacob Charalel, the President of Diocesan Fraternity extended words of appreciation to one all, Rev. Palm Sunday Celebrated at Holy Fr. Thomas P.J. and the faithful of the parish for all the Cross, With the Rest of the World arrangements and the presidents of CAN and his colleagues, NCWA and her colleagues and NCYM and her Colleagues for the gesture of appreciation towards the priests. Earlier on Monday 21 March, priests gathered together for meeting and discussion, and the morning of 22 March was spent in prayer and reflection, which was facilitated by Fr. Dr. Isaac Padinjarekuttu, professor, Oriens Theology College, Shillong. He focused on the theme, “Personal Encounter with Jesus”. He said, “Christianity is person of Jesus”. He posed these challenging questions, Do we really know Jesus? Have we really encountered Him in our personal life? He The Catholic Church in Nagaland joined the rest of added that it is easy to follow rituals, recite prayers, adore the Christian world in celebrating the Palm Sunday or Jesus and yet we can keep a distance from Him. The Passion Sunday that initiates the Christians into the Holy first condition to have an encounter of Jesus, he said, is Week. This year Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop “repentance”. He also said that we are living in dangerous of Kohima officiated the Palm Sunday celebrations at illusions, “spiritual worldliness’ – seeking one’s own Holy Cross Church, Dimapur along with nine Priests and glory. He exhorted the priests to pray for the grace to hundreds of Catholic faithful of the Parish. The liturgy of have a personal encounter of Jesus. Over 100 priests the day had two parts. During the first part the Parishioners and hundreds of religious and faithful participated in the gathered at the School ground. Bishop in his introduction liturgical celebration - Fr. Sojan Puthankudy exhorted and said Constantine the Great was the first Christians Roman emperor. His father Constantius 1, who Career Guidance and Catechism of succeeded Diocletian as emperor in 305 A.D. was a pagan with a soft heart for the Christians. When he the Church Seminar Held at SJC ascended the throne, he discovered that many Christian held important jobs in the government and in the court. So he issued an executive order to all those Christians: “Either give up Christ or give up your jobs.” The great majority of Christians gave up their jobs rather than disowning Christ. Only a few cowards gave up their religion rather than lose their jobs. The emperor was pleased with the majority who showed the courage of their convictions and gave their jobs back to them saying: “If you will not be true to your God you will not A two-day seminar on Career Guidance and be true to me either.” Thus he exhorted the Christians to Catechism of the Church was organized in the St. Joseph be faithful to Christ and Holy Week to which they are Parish, Chumukedima, Dimapur on 19th and 20th of March, entering is a call to Christian fidelity. 2016. The following were the resource persons namely, Bishop later prayed and blessed the palm leaves, after which the community in possession Mr. Rengthungo James Kikon, Social Entrepreneur, proceeded to the Parish Hall, singing hymns, with palm Teisovi Gerard Meyase, Asst. Professor, Kohima leaves in their hands, commemorating the triumphant Science College, Dr. Sekolo CIHSR, Fr Thomas John, entry of Jesus in Jerusalem.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese In the second part of the liturgy was at the Parish Hall, Dr. Vizovono Elizabeth giving the introductory on the where Passion narrative from the gospel of Luke was book. The volume is a compendium of critical essays read. The Bishop in his homily said Palm Sunday and on contemporary Naga writers presenting their Passion Sunday are two sides of the same coin because “Weltanschauung” of life which was an eye-opener to we have to rejoice and sing as we receive Jesus into their personal philosophy of human life and the universe. our lives as our Lord and Savior and we have to weep Writers like Temsula Ao, Easterine Kire, Monalisa and morn as his death confronts us with our sin. Yes, we Changkija, Nini Lungalang and Avinuo Kire explore were there in the crowd on both days, shouting contemporary issues of the society and human “Hosanna!” and later “Crucify!” because of what Jesus predicament in its multiple dimensions, coupled with has done for us and our faith in him, one day we will be lyrical exuberance. The foreword of the book was written in that great crowd gathered around the throne of God, by professor & HoD English, NU Kohima campus, Dr. and there everyone will shout words of praise, heavenly Nigamananda who described Dr. Fr. A. J. Sebastian SDB hosannas, that will ring through all eternity, “To him who as a promoter of creative and critical writings in English sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor in Nagaland for over a decade. and glory and power, forever and ever!” Rev (5:13). The book priced at 200/- would be available at Bishop urged the faithful to spend this week mediating Don Bosco College, Kohima Mobile 9436011884; Bosco the great things God has done in the silence of our heart. College of Teacher Education Dimapur Mobile Rev. Fr. Thomas P.J., Parish Priest, of Holy Cross Church 9436431786; NEISSR Bishop’s House Dimapur Phone thanked Bishop for being the main celebrant of the day. 03862-233435; Pastoral Centre at Holy Cross Dimapur, He further announced to the faithful about the Chrism Mass and at major Book stalls in Kohima and Dimapur. to be celebrated on Tuesday, March 22nd, 2016 at 4 pm - Correspondent in Holy Cross, Parish Hall, during which the Bishop along with all the priests working in the diocese celebrate the The New Block of St. Joseph’s Men’s priesthood day, thus showing the unity in priesthood and Hostel Inaugurated bless the sacred oils – oil of Chrism, oil of the catechumens and oil of the sick and invited all the faithful to take part in it. - Fr. Philip Magh Book on Naga Poets & Fiction Writers in English Released

St. Joseph’s Boys Hostel, Jakhama, was blessed and inaugurated by Bishop James Thoppil on Saturday March 19 on the feast of St. Joseph the Patron Saint of the College. The new block was named as St. John Paul’s boys’ hostel. Bishop applauded the Staff of St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama for the efforts taken to mould and shape the future responsible citizens of the State of A book titled “critical essays on Naga poets & fiction Nagaland. Bishop officiated the Holy Mass on the feast writers” authored by former professor & HoD English, of St. Joseph, the patron of the St. Joseph College, Nagaland University, Dr. Fr. A. J. Sebastian SDB was Jakhama. The day was kept whole day for the meeting released on March 20. of the Governing Board of St. Joseph’s College. Organizers Thesuo-ü, Lhoulie-ü and Lhoukru-ü chose - Correspondent the rural setting of Meriema village as venue for the book Be helpful. When you see a person without a smile, release, with HoD English, Baptist College Kohima, give them yours – Zig Ziglar

Sharing: April - May 2016 - 10

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese RITES IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH - Fr. Sojan Xavier any people are confused that there are many rites M Constantinople in 1054, many particular churches within the Catholic Church. Many are even more remained separated from Rome. Over the years some confused as to what constitutes a rite and how many of these churches came back into union. These churches rites there are etc. In this article I would like to give a after they returned to the fold have generally been treated bird’s eye of view of what rite is and how and where as separate rites based on their particular location, even they originated. though they have similar if not identical liturgy. The The Rites churches using the Byzantine liturgy include the Albanian, A rite represents an ecclesiastical tradition about how Belarussian, Bulgarian, Croatian, Greek, Hungarian, the sacraments are to be celebrated. As the early Church Italo-Albanian, Melkite, Romanian, Russian, Ruthenian, grew and spread, it celebrated the sacraments as would Slovak, and Ukrainian. be best understood and received in the context of Alexandrian Rite. The liturgy used by the church in individual cultures, without ever changing their essential Alexandria in Egypt is attributed to St. Mark the form and matter. The early Church sought to evangelize evangelist. This church became known as the Coptic in the major cultural centres of the first centuries A.D. Church because Copt is the Arabic and Greek word These centres were Rome, Antioch (Syria), and for Egyptian. Before the Moslem invasion in 641 the Alexandria (Egypt). All the rites in use today evolved Copts fell into heresy due to their rejection of the Council from the liturgical practices and ecclesiastical of Chalcedon (451). Through missionary work, some organization used by the churches in these cities. of these were brought back into union in recent years. Different of Rites Today there exists in Egypt the Coptic rite which is The Catechism lists seven rites. These rites so listed: Orthodox and the Coptic rite that is loyal to the Bishop Latin, Byzantine, Alexandrian, Syriac, Armenian, of Rome. Maronite, and Chaldean, 2 are actually families of The Ge’ez rite based in Ethiopia is closely liturgical expression. These rites are the descendants of associated with the Coptic rite. Missionaries from the liturgical practices that originated in centres of Rome, Alexandria spread the faith in Ethiopia in the 4th century. Antioch, and Alexandria. Each will be discussed in turn. The native language (Ge’ez) was used instead of Greek Latin Rite. This is by far the largest rite in the Church. in the liturgy. The church in Ethiopia also fell into heresy It was founded by St. Peter in Rome around 42 A.D. after the Council of Chalcedon but was brought back The current Eucharistic liturgy was handed down more through missionary efforts in the past few centuries. This or less intact from at least the 4th century. This was the is a very recently defined rite since the Metropolitan liturgy used in Rome. There were other liturgies used in See was only established in 1961. the West up to the Council of Trent (1526-1570). After Syriac Rite. The liturgy of the Syriac rite is attributed the Council of Trent only the Roman liturgy could be to St. James the Apostle. This liturgy was used by the used. The only exceptions were liturgical practices that church in Antioch in present day Syria. Many bishops were more than 200 years old. These rites include the in this area also broke away after the Council of Mozarabic rite from Spain, the Ambrosian rite from Chalcedon. They stopped using Greek and used the Milan, Italy, named after St. Ambrose (340-397), the Syriac language in their liturgy. The Syriac language is Bragan rite from Portugal, and the order liturgies of the similar to Aramaic, the language Jesus spoke. Through Dominican, Carmelite, and Carthusian orders. the work of Jesuit and Capuchin missionaries many Byzantine Rite. The largest of these eastern rites is members of this rite returned to union with Rome, the Byzantine. The Byzantine liturgy is based on liturgy including the Patriarch of this rite in 1781. developed by St. James for the Antiochaian church, but modified by St. Basil (329-379) and St. John Armenian Rite. Armenia was the first country to adopt Chrysostom (344-407). This liturgy is similar if not Christianity as the state religion in the 4th century. They identical to the liturgy used by the Orthodox churches. used the Antiochine liturgy of St. James said in the After the schism between the churches in Rome and Armenian language. At that time Armenia was located

Sharing: April - May 2016 - 11

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese in eastern Turkey. After it was destroyed in the 11th The Malabar rite never broke with Rome despite the century it moved to Cilicia (southern Turkey). That is conflict with the Portuguese in the 16th century. They why to this day the Patriarch of this rite is known as the are generally grouped with the Chaldean family of rites Patriarch of Cilicia of the Armenians. The Armenians because the Assyrian (later called Chaldean) church also fell into heresy after the Council of Chalcedon. The provided their bishops until the Portuguese took over Council of Florence in 1439 declared reunion with the that task. Also their liturgy was originally in the Syriac Armenians, and Pope Benedict XIV confirmed the first language which the Chaldean church used. Although an Patriarch in 1742. The Turks massacred roughly two ancient rite, it had no single administrator until Pope John million Armenians at the end of World War I. Most Paul II appointed a Major Archbishop in 1992. members of this rite live in Lebanon. Rites have equal dignity and same rights with same Maronite Rite. The Maronite rite traces its origins to obligations the work of St. Maron in the 4th century who founded Although there are many rites within the Catholic Church, a monastery east of Antioch. Later monks moved to as the Catholic Encyclopedia describes: “Within the the mountains in what is today Lebanon. This rite never Catholic Church ... Canonical rites, which are of equal fell into heresy and was only separated from Rome by dignity, enjoy the same rights, and are under the same the political reality of Moslem or Ottoman occupation. obligations. Although the particular churches possess The Maronites use a hybrid liturgy based on the their own hierarchy, differ in liturgical and ecclesiastical Antiochian St. James. Maronites make up 17% of the discipline, and possess their own spiritual heritage, they population of Lebanon and by the law of that country are all entrusted to the pastoral government of the the president of Lebanon is always a Maronite. Roman pontiff, the divinely appointed successor of St. Chaldean Rite. The people in modern day Iran and Peter in the Primacy. Attendance at a different rite fulfils Iraq were once known as the Assyrians. The church the Sunday obligation. The Catholic Church is truly established itself there very early but the people in this universal since it unites so many diverse rites, whose area fell into the heresy of Nestorianism in the 5th century. members share a common faith. After missionary efforts many returned to union with Pope holds jurisdiction over the Rites of the West Rome, and in 1553 Pope Julius III proclaimed the first and the East Patriarch of the Chaldeans. Chaldean is the biblical term As Vicar of the universal Church, the Pope is shepherd used for those from Babylon. Today the Patriarch of of the rites of the West and the East. The eastern rites this rite located in Bagdad, Iraq where most of the which have a separate code of canon law, are completely members of this rite live. equal in dignity with the rites of the West. All of these Two rites present in India apart from Latin rite are; The eastern ritual churches come under the jurisdiction of Malankarese and Syro-Malabar Rites. the Pope through the Congregation for the Oriental The Malankarese rite developed in India. They trace Churches, one of the offices of the Roman Curia. The their Christian lineage to St. Thomas the Apostle who rites are administered by either a Patriarch, a Major travelled to South India and founded a church. This rite Archbishop, a Metropolitan, or have some other was in union with the Assyrian (Chaldean) church which arrangement. Patriarchs are elected by a synod of had fallen into the Nestorian heresy after the Council of bishops of their rite, and then request ecclesiastical Ephesus in 431. This church was “discovered” by communion from the Pope. Major Archbishops are also Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century. After elected by a synod of bishops of their rite, but then are attempts to “latinize” the rite, many broke away to form approved by the Pope before they take office. their own rite under the control of the Syrian Patriarch. Metropolitans are picked by the Pope from a list given In the 1920’s and 30’s four bishops of this rite were by a synod of bishops. reunited with Rome, and many members of their rite When one door closes, another opens;opens but we often followed. This rite is located in Kerala State, India. look so long and so regretfully upon the closed Syro-Malabar Rite: The Malabar rite is based in India. door that we do not see the one which has opened for us Its members are descendants of the Thomas Christians – Alexander Graham Bell and could be called a brother rite to the Malankarese.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -12

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese Come and See Programme Held at The chief guest in his speech encouraged the students to take part in various events not just for winning but with Jalukie the desire to make sports and games an integral part of their life. “Many studies focus in five C’s – Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character and Caring – which are very critical components of positive youth development,” Yanthan said. He encouraged the students to uphold their commitment, dedication, discipline, hardworking, devotion and positive attitude. Earlier in the programme, welcome address was delivered by Rev. Fr Sajan, Principal SJHSS while the lighting of sports lamp was performed by Rev. Fr Mathew Director of Shalom Rehabilitation Centre Chumukedima. Eleven boys from various parishes of the Diocese Cultural dance and March Past by four houses of the school was the highlight of the inaugural. The function participated in the “Come and See” Programme 2016, was concluded with vote thanks by Sr. David held from February 29 to 15 March. Of the eleven, three Headmistress SJHSS. – Fr. John Lichoi were of class XII (appeared) and eight from class X (appeared). The participants stayed at St. Xavier St. John School, Razeba Annual Seminary for 15 days following the time-table of the house Games & Sports Conducted and mingling with seminarians at work, study, prayer and other activities. The boys were introduced to the basics St. John School of Bible, Liturgy, Sacraments, Church History, Prayer and Annual & Sports week Vocation to Priesthood. The other set of inputs included Inaugural programme was Motivational Sessions, Career Guidance, Health and held on Wednesday 16th Hygiene, Testimonial Sharing and Gifts and Talents. The March 2016. The evening hours were spent learning the basics of programme was graced phonetics and music. Eleven resource persons were by Captain Rahul, Post th robbed in from within and outside Jalukie for the program. Commander, 9 Assam St. Xavier Seminary owes them a million thanks. At the Rifles, Pfutsero. In his end of the program, 6 out of 11 decided to join the Inaugural speech he encouraged the students to be seminary this year. disciplined and take risk in life. Mr. Reynald Pyngrope, the Principal of TMT Hr. “Come and See” programme is intended to give Sec. School, Pfutsero exhorted the students for the a firsthand experience of seminary life. The programme wonderful performance during the ceremony. He further offers another chance for boys who were not able to more said that education is the essence of life. If you attend the Diocesan Vocation Camp but are interested fail, never give up because F.A.I.L means ‘First Attempt in joining seminary. It is hoped that a program of this sort In Learning”. would help the participants discern and respond to the The highlights of the Inaugural programme voice of God to priestly life. - Fr. Kokto Kurian included marchpast, Prayer song, welcome song, Aerobic dance, dance and choreography. At the outset SHSS, Chumukedima Organized programme began with the Scripture reading and 18th Annual Games and Sports invocation by Rev. Sr. Anupa Jose and Rev. Fr. James Sangtam introduced and welcome the Chief Guest while St. Joseph Higher Secondary School, Miss Virhulu Ruth Zholia proposed the vote of thanks. Chumukedima organized its 18th Annual Games and – Fr. James Thsiponkiu Sports Meet on March 15. Deputy Director of Agriculture, N Jacob Yanthan was the chief guest at the inaugural Being happy doesn’t mean that everything is perfect. It means that you’ve decided to look beyond the function. imperfections.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -13

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese St Joseph’s College Organised ACYA ‘Way of the Cross’ to Puliebadze 3rd Spring Fest

The Angami Catholic Youth Association organised the Way of the Cross on the way to Puliebadze, Jotsoma Village on Saturday 12th March. The Youth made the way of the Cross walking to top of the Puliebadze camp, devotionally contemplating Christ’s agony. Around 135 ACYA members, representing the five regions of the t Joseph’s College, Jakhama organized the 3rd S Angami area attended the programme. ‘Spring Fest’ under the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’ on March - Correspondent 12. Students representing every Naga tribe showcased their uniqueness paving a way to preserve the rich Naga DBHSS, CKHSS Organized Marathon Culture and Heritage. Speaking during the celebration, AIR Kohima Race senior news reader, Jonas Yanthan urged the students to enjoy a high standard of constitutional rights, and not to be veiled by narrow mindedness. He added that the people needed infrastructure and not superstructures. The renowned band, Polar Lights, thrilled the cheering crowds with their popular song, ‘Murder Machine’. Varied competitions including folk dance, music and ethnic fashion-show displayed the ingenuity of the students and provided a good platform for budding young talents. Naga wrestling and snail eating competition was a treat which added another layer of excitement and was he annual marathon race of Don Bosco Higher followed by a mind-boggling dare devil performance T Secondary School, Dimapur was held on March 12 with by one of the students. The celebration concluded with the theme ‘Run for Green Dimapur’. Over 1200 students prize distribution and acknowledgement. participated in the event. Before the flag-off, Fr. CT. - Correspondent Varghese, Rector of the school delivered a message jokes hahaha ....hahahaha on the urgency of nurturing and caring the environment A little boy looks at his mum at a wedding and for prosperous future. Different slogans like: “Green says, “Mummy, why is the girl dressed all in Nature - Dimapur Future” (Blue House), “Run in Red for white?” His mum replies, “The girls is called a Green Dimapur” (Red House); “Crush Greed and Go bride and she is in white because she’s happy Green” (Green House) and “Green Dimapur - Healthy and this is the happiest day of her life.” The boy Dimapur” echoed through the vicinity of the town. nods and then asks, “OK, and why is the boy all In Kohima, Christ King Higher Secondary School in black?” also organised a marathon race for the students of class

Sharing: April - May 2016 - 14

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese 6 to class 10 with the theme ‘To lead and to share’. Fr Annual Games and Sports at Peter Salu, the Parish Priest of Christ King Church invoked God’s blessing and flagged off the marathon. St. Mary’s Cathedral Hr. Sec. School Thejavilie of blue house emerged as the winner in senior category. He completed the run within 19 minutes while Petekhrietuo of blue house and Khrieketoulie of green house secured 1st position in inter and junior category respectively. Juliet of blue house, Sedeneinuo of green house and Rükunülü of green house secured 1st position in the seniors, inters and junior category respectively. All the winners as well as participants were awarded with points which will be carried forward to the sports meet to be held from March 21 to 23. - Correspondent The Annual Sports of St. Mary’s Cathedral Hr. Sec. Awareness Programme on Blyth’s & School (SMCHSS) Lerie, Kohima was held from 9th to 12 March 2016. Mr. Nasozal Charles, the Joint Tragopan Conducted in Pungro Development Commissioner, Govt. of Nagaland graced the inaugural function as the Chief Guest. One day awareness Rev. Fr. John Padinjareporiyath, the principal programme on Blyth’s of the School accorded the words of welcome to Shri. Tragopan conservation at Nasozal Charles, the Joint Development Commissioner, Pungro under the theme Govt. of Nagaland, Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Chairman “Save Tragopan, Save of the School, Rev. Sr. Lucy FMA, Principal LFS, Kohima, Pride” on 10th March 2016. other fathers, public leaders, sisters, Parents of Programme began with SMCHSS and invited guests. the invocation prayer by Mr. Nasozal Charles in his speech said that Rev. Fr. Sajimon, principal, Little Flower School. it was Sports can teach a student discipline. Discipline is simply organized by the Department of Environment, Forest and the ability to adhere and conform to the codes of ethics Climate Change, Nagaland with financial and organization and behavior. Discipline is the means by which society help from Central Zoo Authority, Wildlife Trust of India ensures that all individuals co-operate for the benefit of and district administration. Shri Satya Praksh Tripathi, IFS society as a whole. Sports and games are an excellent was the chief guest of a day. Mr. Chonpenthung Ezung, way to enhance self- discipline. They train you to set EAC, Pungro chaired the programme. 120 people from goals, focus your mental and emotional energies, villages of Saramati-Fakim, NGOs, all students union, become physically fit, and to get along well with others. tribal union, town council, public forum and church bodies He applauded Rev. Fr. Johny P. Principal and staff for participated in the programme. - Fr. Charles the opportunity created to the students. He further wished all, students and staff to get the full benefit it through Catechism Teachers Training at participation in sports and games. Rev. Fr. George Rino, Phesama Commission for Education, Diocese of Kohima, kicked a ball and inaugurated the sports and games open. The The Catechism Teachers Training was held at St. Paul sports day came to a close on 12th March. The winners Church, Phesama on March 12th and 13rd, 2016 by Fr were given away medals and certificates. Jaison and Sr Rosin. Fr Jaison took the classes on - Fr. Johny P. ‘Jesus the Model Teacher’ and the ‘Model Class’ on teaching catechism. Sr Rosin took a session on The appearance of things change “Objectives, Nature and Mission of Catechesis”. The according to the emotions and thus group work sessions were an experiencing, learning we see magic and beauty in them, and enlightening programme for 36 Jesuit Pre-Novices, while the magic and beauty really FCC Sisters and lay teachers of Catechesis. are in ourselves - Kahlil Gibran - Correspondent

Sharing: April - May 2016 -15

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese Phek Region- Catechists Training BAMS Phek Conducts Annual Organized in Pfutsero Games and Aports Two-day training was organized for the catechists of Annual Games and Sports of Bishop Abraham the Phek region at Pastoral Training Centre (PTC) Pfutsero Memorial School (BAMS), Phek was held at the local from 4th - 6th March, 2016. The sessions were animated ground on 1st March 2016. The occasion was graced by by Frs. Jaison Thomas, Director, Pastoral Centre, Mr. Kuko Mero, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Phek Fr. Sojan Xavier from Bishop’s House, Kohima and as the chief guest at local ground, Phek. Sr. Rosy Naronah UFS and Rose MSMHC. A total of 35 Mr. Kuko Mero in his speech stressed on the Catechists from the region took part in the programme. importance of games and sports in a student’s life. He - Sr. Rosy Naronah UFS said, games and sports should be part and parcel of a student’s academy where he/she must study and play Teachers Orientation Programme hard to become a successful person. He emphatically Held at Razeba stated that it is through games and sports one concretely learns the value of collaboration and unity. He exhorted the students to have the mind of healthy competitor. He said that they need to make a lot of sacrifice, spent time and toil hard in order to be successful in the world. Different games and sports such as tug of war, kabadi, 100 and 200 metre race, high jump, long, etc. for boys and girls were conducted. - Correspondent Chavara Home Programme for Doctors & Nurses One day combined orientation course for the Teachers of St. John School, Razeba and St. Joseph School, Zhavame was held at St. John school, Razeba on 05 March 2016 with Rev. Fr Anthony R. Dukru, Vice Principal of Joseph College Jakhama, as the resource person with the theme, “To lead and accompany children to excel”. At the outset of the course students welcomed the teachers with melodious voice which was followed by Rev. Fr James Sangtam who briefrd about the course Chavara home organized a one day programme for and welcomed the resource person. the Catholic doctors and nurses working in various health The resource person speaking on the theme settings of Dimapur on February 28. Altogether 48 doctors told the teachers that, “An excellent and outstanding and nurses participated in the programme. teacher not only inspires but creates wings for the The main aim of the programme was to imbibe the spirit students to come out with flying colours”. He added, of merciful Jesus who went around healing the sick and “As teachers you need to have right attitude which is the suffering. fuel of progress and growth of the children”. Bishop James Thoppil in his address said that nurses The orientation concluded with the words of and doctors are the visible hands of God on earth, to gratitude by Mr. Venyi Zholia the Assistant teacher on show the same love and mercy to the sick and needy behalf of the teachers for enabling them to realize what who comes in daily life as Jesus did. Rev. Fr. they ought to be as a teacher. - Sr. Anupa Jose CMC C.T.Varghese, Rector, Don Bosco school encouraged the participants through short videos and reflection. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing - Correspondent – Helen Keller

Sharing: April - May 2016 -16

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese Leadership Training Held at St. Paul, CKC Kohima Organized One Day Phesama Pilgrimage With an aim to help student leaders discover the true meaning of leadership in order to make them better leaders thereby make a difference, two days leadership training was held at St. Paul Retreat House, Phesama and was attended by fifty student leaders from the Jesuit run schools of Nagaland. The programme which began with a welcome speech led by director of the retreat house, Fr. Boniface D’Souza SJ was followed by an ice breaking session led by Br. Leo Florence SJ. hrist King Church Kohima organized a day of The sessions that followed included the C pilgrimage to St. Xavier Church Jalukie on February 27 following themes: who is a leader? Am I a leader? to mark the ‘Jubilee Year of Mercy’. Fr. Peter Salew SDB, Challenges of leadership, skills required for leaders, the parish priest, leaders of the Catholic union, Bethany and a leader’s response. sisters, Catechists, members from fathers’ association, The other resource persons were Fr. Gideon mothers’ association, Sunday school teachers, C.Y.A, Warisa SJ, Fr. Emmanuel Patton SJ and Dr. Fr. Anand C.J.A, altar servers, legion of Mary, Jesus youth, and a Pereira SJ. The programme ended with a variety good number of the faithful numbering around 230 entertainment show prepared by the student leaders participated in the pilgrimage. The main objective of the themselves. The student leaders were invited to take pilgrimage was the spiritual renewal in the Jubilee Year an oath stating that they would strive to be leaders who of Mercy and to spend the season of Lent in prayer, would make a difference. fasting and almsgiving. The 50 participants were from the following The spiritual renewal programme began with an schools, Nazareth School, Pfutsero, Sacred Heart introductory talk by Rev. Fr. Peter Salew SDB who School, Khuzama, St. Joseph Higher Secondary emphasized on the need for spiritual renewal, the School, Viswema, Loyola Higher Secondary School, opportune time to receive God’s blessings and merciful Jakhama and St. Paul School, Phesama. love through sincere examination of conscience, - Correspondent repentance, conversion and transformation of life. He Catechism Teachers Training reiterated that the sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist are the two pillars of the process of spiritual Programme SJC, Chumukedima renewal, and starting afresh from Christ. The pilgrimage reached its culmination in the One day catechism teachers’ training programme was solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over held in St. Joseph Parish Chumukedima on 27th February, by Fr. Peter Salew SDB and con-celebrated by 2016. The sessions were animated by Fr. Jaison Thomas Fr. Athonysamy (Parish Priest of St. Xavier Parish) and and Fr. Sojan Xavier. The basic concept on the Fr. Augustine Kerketta (Rector of St. Xavier seminary). understanding of catechesis, methodology for catechesis – Correspondent and practical sessions were included in the programme. A total of 20 teachers participated in the programme. SJC Jakhama Students Meets - Correspondent Shri. Toyang Chang Philanthropic association of St. Joseph’s College (SJC) Jakhama led by its president K. Chumseli Anar along with three of its members met parliamentary secretary, New Renewable Energy, Fire & Emergency Service, Toyang Chang on February 23 at his office.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -17

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese During the interaction Mr. Toyang advised the students, Communiqué from Bishop’s House, to utilize all opportunities enclosed in the envelope of morality in life to serve the people. He told the students Kohima, Cautions NGO’S not to be Duped that knowledge can be acquired through the books but Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, the Secretary wisdom from God and advised them that one should to the Bishop of Kohima, in an official not haste to speak but learn to listen. communiqué, has warned the public Toyang also encouraged the students to in general and NOG’s in particular not continue serving the society even after their studies for to be duped by any fraudulent NGO the association’s maxim itself states, “service to man is promising to get Global funding for service to god”. - Correspondent community development. The communiqué informs that Rev. Dr. Holy Cross Campus Declared James Thoppil, the Bishop of Kohima, Bishop’s House Tobacco - Free Zone Kohima, has received so far 29 letters by speed post (name mis-spelled as Rev. James Tophil DD) from different NGO from Nagaland, requesting for Recommendation letter for “Proposal for community Development for the under privileged community” to be addressed to Xavier Social Service Samiti, Bangalore. The Secretary informs the public and the NGO’s the following on behalf of the bishop: 1. The Bishop does not give recommendation letters to any NGO’s unless he knows personally and knows well the modality and operation of the NGO’s requesting for Holy Cross Higher Secondary School of Dimapur recommendation. Recommendation letter implies that he has been declared a tobacco-free zone on Tuesday, knows well the particular NGO and vouches for its February 23. EAC of Niuland, Mrs. Rongsenmenla, genuineness and integrity. declared the symbolic status during the school’s golden 2. The bishop is not sure about the authenticity and jubilee sports event in the school’s premises. credibility of the Xavier Social Service Samiti, (St. Xavier The administrator, who is also an alumnus of the school, Social Service Samiti, as mentioned in some letters) expressed joy at coming back to the school especially Bangalore. Upon some information that Archbishop of during the golden jubilee celebrations. Bangalore is the Chairman of the Xavier Social Service Emphasizing on the value of fair play during Samiti, the bishop personally contacted the Archbishop sports and games, Mrs. Rongsenmenla said the country about it and the Archbishop told him that he has no needs healthy individuals for nation building. She also knowledge of Xavier Social Service Samiti, Bangalore. said that games and sports are very important in school 3. As per the Check list for the application, each NGO is curriculum, as well as for all round development of to pay in advance a total of Rs. 75,000.00 - two DD in students. favour of Xavier Social Service Samiti payable at Rongsenmenla lauded the school for initiating Bangalore (35,000.00 for registration and 15,000.00 for “tobacco free school” and said awareness should be legal fees), Rs. 15 for Country Co-ordinator for project created in early stages and that school is the right place writing; Rs. 10,000.00 for processing fees at the time of to create awareness about the ill effects of tobacco. She submitting the application. In all probability the whole said academic learning is incomplete without leadership enterprise is another way to dupe many innocent NGOs. and learning spirit and sports. The school’s sports meet Therefore in communiqué said that no NGO’s will be kicked off with march past by the students of different issued any letter of recommendation from the Bishop houses, NCC cadets, Scouts and Guides and the school and the bishop does not know and has nothing to do band. - Correspondent with so called Xavier Social Service Samiti, Bangalore, promising to get Global Fund for Sustainable “Happiness is a choice. Choose happy.” - Anonymous Development.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -18

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese disorders like specific reading disorder/ developmental HCHSS Golden Jubilee reading disorder, specific arithmetic disorder, developmental disorder of speech and language. The In commemoration of golden jubilee celebration of external disorders, he mentioned, were attention deficit Holy Cross Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, a hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, Golden Jubilee Marathon was organized on February conduct disorder. The internal disorders were 20 at 6 a.m. On this occasion, the School Management depression, separation anxiety, sibling rivalry, adjustment also invited the Alumni to take part in the event and make disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and post- it successful. - Correspondent traumatic stress disorder. He also trained the social work students on NEISSR Students Sensitised on PCM project cycle management (PCM), a term given to the process of planning and managing projects, programmes and organisation. It is used widely in the business sector and is increasingly being used by developmental organisations, the resource person pointed out. PCM is based around a project cycle, which ensures that all aspects of projects are considered. A central value of the PCM method is that aspects of the projects are reconsidered throughout the project cycle to ensure that any changes which have occurred are North East Institute of Social Science and Research included in the project design. As a result, projects are (NEISSR) organised three-day workshop on project cycle more likely to be successful and sustainable, Jacob management and need of social work in different settings stated. PCM involves a set of planning tools which feed of the society for its second year students. The workshop into the logical framework (commonly known as a log concluded on February 20. frame). The Log frame is a table which gives a summary A press release from NEISSR Desk informed of the project plans. Financial management and legal that NEISSR is looking at various new avenues and compliance were the other aspects covered. The settings of reaching out to heal and meet the needs of resource person further dealt on how to monitor and the deserving sections of society. It is finding new ways evaluate projects with the participation of primary and to do social work profession. secondary stakeholders. - Correspondent “We need to reach out to the youth and deserving individuals in the organized and unorganized settings Newly Built Church at New Reserve, like education and religion based institutions and Phesama Inaugurated communities to meet their urgent needs,” said Rev. Dr. CP Anto during the workshop. New church for Meanwhile, resource person Dr. Lukose P Catholic community of Jacob, Associate Professor, Don Bosco University, New Reserve Phesama Guwahati, said that every school needs a social worker was inaugurated on to identify students with development disorders and post February 14. traumatic issues to guide them with the help of their The church was parents and other teachers. School is an area of work blessed by Bishop for social workers to identify children with behaviour James Thoppil and inaugurated by Mrs. Irene Sequeira- disorders and learning difficulties to help them overcome one of the major benefactress of the church. their difficulties – physical, cognitive, social and In the programme, Bishop James congratulated emotional, communication, he added. the people of New Reserve for successfully building Some of the childhood problems he highlighted their church and urged them to make it truly a house of were developmental disorders, childhood mental illness, prayer. He also thanked Jesuit fathers for serving the behavioural and emotional disorders, developmental people of the area with so much dedication and

Sharing: April - May 2016 -19

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese commitment. Speaking on the occasion, former Jesuit symbolizes fragility and mortality, and the need to be provincial of South Asia and the present development redeemed by the mercy of God. Far from being a merely director of Kohima Jesuits, Fr. Hector D’Souza hailed external act, the Church has retained the use of ashes to the church as a true miracle that has been achieved symbolize the attitude of internal penance to which all through cooperation of people and generosity of donors. the baptized are called particularly during the season of Parliamentary secretary for Veterinary and Animal Lent. Husbandry, Treasuries and Accounts Vikho Yhoshii and Lent also recalls the forty days of our Lord’s DC Kohima, Rovileto Mor graced the occasion with their fasting in the desert, which He undertook before entering presence. into His public ministry. We read in the Gospel: “Jesus The short programme that followed the Eucharist was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted included a welcome speech by Khouizo, a short history by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, of the church by Neilavono Monica, special numbers by and afterwards he was hungry” (Mt 4,1-2). Like Moses, the Catechism children of new reserve, the Jesuit who fasted before receiving the tablets of the Law (cf. candidates of JTC, Phesama and the CYA of St. Paul Ex 34,28) and Elijah’s fast before meeting the Lord on Parish, Phesama, and a vote of thanks by Neichulhou. Mount Horeb (cf. 1 Kings19,8), Jesus, too, through prayer - Correspondent and fasting, prepared Himself for the mission that lay before Him, marked at the start by a serious battle with Catholics Observe Ash Wednesday the tempter Bishop exhorted the community that while fasting from certain things; they must feast on other things: Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ dwelling in others. Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life. Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude. Fast from anger; feast on patience. Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation. Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness. Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others. Fast from idle gossip; feast on the purposeful silence. Fast from personal anxiety; feast on unceasing prayer. The traditional practice of fasting, prayer and almsgiving are ways to discipline oneself The most important season in the Catholic liturgical and to give priority to building intimate spiritual calendar is the season of lent which begins with ‘Ash relationship with God, the source and end of everything. Wednesday. It was solemnity observed in all the Catholic The most important days in the season of Lent apart Churches, including those in Nagaland. Bishop James from Ash Wednesday, are Palm Sunday, Maundy or Holy Thoppil was the main celebrant for the morning service Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday, leading to in the Catholic Cathedral Church, Kohima on February the glorious Easter. - Fr. Richard Fernandes 10, along with other priests. The second service in the evening was officiated Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Vicar Happiness is like a butterfly. General of the diocese. The more you chase it, the more it eludes Bishop in his introduction said that Lent is a time you. But if you turn your attention to when Christians prepare for Easter by observing a other thing, it comes and sits softly on period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual your shoulder. discipline for forty days. The smearing of ashes on the - Henry David Thoreau forehead is the sign of conversion, penance, fasting and human mortality. The day receives its special name There are two ways to live your life. from the blessing and imposition of ashes in the form of One is as though nothing is a miracle. a cross on the foreheads with the words, “Remember The other is as though everything is a that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” or “Repent miracle - Albert Einstein and believe in the Gospel.” The act of putting on ashes

Sharing: April - May 2016 -20

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese But with God’s help and guidance, with the faith that the Bishop Appeals Once Again for dark past has taught us and the hope that the present Peace and Dialogue has brought us and armed with the power of love, we shall get there”. Bishop James Thoppil who He also appealed and instructed the Catholic returned from Kiphire after attending institutions in Kiphire, Pungro and Shamatore to render the Silver Jubilee celebration of the all possible assistance to mitigate human suffering and Catholic Women Society of St. also assist in whichever way possible to help the students Peter’s Church, Kiphire, in a to write their classes X, XI and XII examination. He also statement appealed once again for expressed sympathy for the children who are losing their peace and dialogue among all the future, for no fault of their own. He prayed especially for communities. He appealed for peace during his homily the four children who became orphans suddenly, the th on Sunday 7 February at St. Peter’s Church during the eldest of whom is the brightest student at Loyola Hr. Silver Jubilee celebrations, Kiphire, sensing the Sec. School, who is to write class X examination this emotional built up in the town. He said that so many of year. the younger generation suffer due to the short sightedness and craftiness of vested interest. Kiphire Catholic Women Society He stated that the Catholic Church is very much Celebrated Silver Jubilee concerned and disturbed by the worsening situation in the towns of Kiphire, Pungro and Shamator and hoped that good sense prevails among the general public. He appealed once again very sincerely to all the leaders to shun all forms of violence and denounce each and every perpetuators of violence. “Violence has no place in a civilized society and especially among us who are Christians. We must learn to separate incidents of violence and judge them objectively. Violence is not a lasting solution to any of our problem. Only dialogue and good will among people can bring about lasting solutions to any problem. It is very sad, he said, on the one hand we want to stand united and bring about a lasting solution to our common problem, on the other The Catholic Women Society Celebrated the Silver hand we allow ourselves to be led by emotional charge Jubilee with the bishop James Thoppil as the main and petty fragmentation. Non-violence and forgiveness celebrant on 7th February. 11 priests con-celebrated is weapon of the strong while violence in reality is with Bishop, Bishop blessed and inaugurated the Marian weapon of the weak, as taught by greatest icons of Grotto, the Rosary garden and memorial park erected peace – Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. As in loving memory of four teachers who had died in Martin Luther King said, “injustice anywhere is a threat to service. justice everywhere”. Violence anywhere is a threat to Bishop in his introductory congratulated and peace everywhere, the statement said. The bishop greeted in the name of the Diocese the Catholic Women exhorted all the people of Nagaland to remember the Society. He said that Jubilee for the Israelites was very words of Martin Luther King, who said these words in special occasion to reconcile, renew and re-dedicate his famous speech, “I have a dream”, “Yes, I have a themselves. It was time to renew and re-established dream today. There will be serious obstacles to broken relationships and mend the bad way. In his homily overcome. We have mountains of fear and anger and bishop illustrated the theme of the Jubilee: “ Women as hatred to remove. There are hilltops of doubt, of despair, faith givers”. Bishop said women or Mothers especially of hopelessness to be leveled. The rough places in are not merely life givers but also faith givers and faith our hearts that keep us from apologizing, from loving livers. Exemplifying the mother of the seven sons in the unconditionally and from forgiving must be made plain. second book of Maccabees, chapter seven the bishop

Sharing: April - May 2016 -21

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese said that for a mother is great source of joy not in Web Designing Held at NISCORT providing everything material in the world but to see their children in heaven with God.. Can we be such faith givers? First of all do we love, accept, appreciated and cherish our faith? If only one values one’s faith, will one give importance to it. Even after bringing life to the world, we are not in control of life. How many are born defective, how many die young to the sorrow of many mothers? How many of our children get into bad habits, bring dishonor and shame? Do we consider the greatest gift we can give to our children after life is faith? If we are faith givers, then our life giving become purposeful and joyful. What does if profit a man if gain the whole world and suffer the loss of The National Institute of Social Communications, his own soul’? bishop reminded the community. Research and Training,(NISCORT) Delhi of the Media The bishop of also highlighted the need to live Institute of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India had the faith, which calls for peaceful and loving relationship organized two- week course on Web Designing from 8- with one another. Only people who neither fear God nor 21st February. Mr. Jason, directed the course. There were respect human being dare to take the lives of others. twelve participants from different dioceses and religious Faith is real only if we respect, love and care for one congregations who benefited from the Training. Frs. C.J. another for we are all children of God. Jaison and Thomas Toretkiu from the diocese of Kohima Mrs. Rita Chaya was the main resource person attended the course. - Fr. CJ Jaison and speaker on Saturday, 6th February. The Nagaland Catholic Women Association was represented by its Brothers, S. Obed Yimchunger and president, Ms. Angela, Mrs. Rose Abino, and Marina. Vekupa Rhakho George Ordained Mrs Theresa Lendila and Mr. Thomas Y anchored the Deacons programme. On 6th evening there was special adoration of the blessed sacrament and reconciliation service for the community in preparation for the jubilee. Rev. Fr. Benny, Parish Priest welcomed the guests during short felicitation during which the souvenir was released and presentation made to the past office bearers and invited guests. Special song, Choreography was presented by Jubilee choir and Holy Childhood children. Mr. Samuel Y., Church Secretary proposed the vote of thanks. - Correspondent S. Obed Yimchunger and Vekupa Rhakho George Ordained Deacons were ordained deacons by Rt. Rev. Bishop Valerian D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Poona(Pune) on 6th Feb 2016 in Papal Seminary Chapel. He ceremony was participated by priests, North-East dioceses and Provinces. The Catholics of North-East Region (CONER) Pune made a good representation for the same. The Deacons gratefully acknowledged all those who were part of their journey. - Correspondent Happiness depends upon ourselves - Aristotle

Sharing: April - May 2016 -22

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese parade, oath taking, march past and aerobics. The Fete held at Holy Cross Hr. Sec. School inaugural programme was followed by inter house football competition, relay race and kabbadi. The sports meet conclude March 4. - Correspondent JY, Nagaland Conducted Retreats

Jesus Youth of Nagaland unit, animated seminar cum In aid of its Golden Jubilee, Holy Cross Higher retreat to the Novitiate FMA from 18th-22nd January and Secondary School, Dimapur is organized a two-day fete to St. Xavier seminarians, Jalukie from 15th-20th in the school campus on February 4. The inaugural day February. was graced by Col Mahesh Gurung as chief guest today. Various topics such as God’s love, Discipleship Addressing the students, Col. Mahesh said school is a , God’s call and Youth ministry were shared along with place where future of the country is nurtured. He stressed Testimonies . Action songs , bible quiz and Rosary that teachers are most important part of the school, who prayer were done throughout the retreat. build the nation’s future and expressed pride to be part Rev. Fr. Sojan Xavier took session on Union of Holy Cross. Col Mahesh, who is also an alumni of with Christ and further celebrated the Holy mass on the the school, thanked the teachers for all the support and last day of retreat in the St. Xavier seminary. In his homily guidance they have provided to the students all these he explained about the importance of God’s call for each years. - Correspondent one of them and encouraged them to move forward with Christ as their vision and Teacher. Carmel Hr Sec. School Organises - Khrielhoutuonuo Karen solo Annual Sports Golden Jubilee-cum-Church Carmel Higher Secondary School, Dimapur organized Dedication at SXCC, Zhavame its annual games and sports on February 1 with Mr. E. Kikon, Additional Director, Geology & Mining, Government of Nagaland as the chief guest. Parents and guardians of the students, Chekiye village chairman, head GB and student’s office bearers graced the occasion. Speaking to the students and staff of the school, the chief guest Mr. E. Kikon stated that sports and games helps to develop mental and physical aspects of life. he golden Jubilee-cum –church dedication Though everyone will not realise dreams and achieve T programme of St. Xavier’s Church, Zhavame was held aims, yet for the betterment of the society, we will have on 10th of January, 2016. The occasion was graced by to do our part, said the chief guest. He also exhorted State home minister Y.P atton, as chief guests and the parents to encourage their children to take part in Parliamentary secretary for higher and technical sports and co-curricular activities. The highlights of the education, Deo Nukhu, and Bishop James as guests of programme included lighting the sports flame, hoisting Honor. the flag, singing of the national anthem, inspection of

Sharing: April - May 2016 -23

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese Y. Patton said Nagaland being a land of rich culture and tradition, “cultural tourism” industry should be promoted MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE so that it would help in solving the employment problem. Mr. Rambe Robert, former Catechist of St. Dominic Admitting that Nagas have a diverse culture, tradition Church, New Poilwa (Peren) who is the Uncle of and languages, Patton however said that they should Bro. Dominic (Oriens Theological College, Shillong) set these differences aside and stay united as brothers passed away on 10th February. and sisters. He also urged the public of Zhavame in particular to forget and forgive their past misunderstanding Fr. Sebastian Fernandes SJ (Bostu - 68) who and misdeeds as they celebrate golden jubilee. Further, worked in Chizami, Jakhama and Pioneer in th he added that for any kind of development peace was a Thenyizumi passed away on 10 February, 2016. must in every section of society. Mr. Thomas (65) uncle of Sr. Bency SMI (Zunheboto) Parliamentary secretary for higher and technical passed away on 17th February, 2016 education, Deo Nukhu in his brief note said “all the Mrs Magdalene Aunty of Fr. Solomon Kevishe Christian in the state should work together and stay united (Meluri) passed away on 17th February, 2016 irrespective of different domination.” Earlier, Bishop James Thoppil dedicated the new Mr. Alo-o Thomas brother of Sr. Amelia FCC (Bana, church at Zhavame and also unveiled the jubilee Arunachal) passed away 17th March, 2016 monolith. The three-day golden jubilee was celebrated Mr. Mathew (77) father of Fr. Isaac Shikaho under the theme “be filled with the fullness of God.” (Longleng) passed away on 19th February, 2016. - Correspondent Mr. Lucas Yisao Humtsoe (88) father of Mr. Elias Humtsoe, President CAN, Passed away on 23rd Upcoming Programmes March, 2016.

Annual Retreats in the Diocese In Memoriam „ For Sisters: June 27 (Monday evening) to July 2 (Saturday morning): Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, Auxiliary Bishop of Ranchi and Secretary of CBCI : Mt. Tabor, Kohima

„ Priests: July 11th (Monday evening) to July 16th (Saturday morning): Archbishop Anil Couto, Archbishop of Delhi: Mt. Tabor, Kohima

„ Other Retreats for Priests: Imphal: June 15- 20, 2016: Bishop Salvadore Lobo of Baruipur

„ Diphu: October 9-16, 2016: Bishop Franco Mulakkal of Jalandhar „ For Catechists: June 08-11, 2016: Fr. Vemedo, With deep gratitude to Mt. Tabor, Kohima Mr. Philip Suosahie Dzüvichü „ Sisters’ Day: Saturday May, 21, 2016, spiritual (84) for the great sacrifice animation seminar at Mt. Tabor and on May 22, 2016 Holy Mass at Cathedral, (Feast Day of Mary and work done to build up the Help of Christians, Kohima). Catholic Church in Nagaland. May he Rest in Peace.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -24

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Diocese Invitation for Diocese Vocation Camp 7. He/She should possess good character and be free from bad habits. 8. The candidates or family members should be free from any serious disease. Requirements: 1. The letter of introduction and recommendation from the Parish Priest/ Priest-in charge. 2. A Conduct certificate from the school authority with the mark list of the half yearly examination of 2016. 3. A registration fee of Rs. 150/- (Rupees one hundred fifty only) per head. 4. Bible, pen, note book, bedding and toilet articles. NB: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” „ The Parish Priests/Centre in-charges are (Luke 10:2) requested to submit the list of candidates, who wish to attend the Diocesan Vocation Camp to Dear Fathers, Sisters & Vocation Promoters, the Vocation Promoter or to the Rector of Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! Jalukie minor Seminary for the FIRST CAMP by th I am glad to inform you that the Diocesan Vocation Camp latest 6 June, 2016 and for the SECOND CAMP th for the Boys and Girls will be held in two places. Kindly by 19 September, 2016. take note of the following information regarding the camp. „ All those vocation promoters of religious congregations (Men and Women) wishing to FIRST CAMP: address the campers, need to send their details Venue : St. Peter’s Church, Kiphire (Name, Congregations name, Contact Number, Arrival : 24th (Friday) June 2016, 5.00pm email id) to me for the FIRST CAMP latest by Departure : 27th (Monday) June 2016 23rd May, 2016 and for the SECOND CAMP by SECOND CAMP: 5th September, 2016. Please note that only Venue : St. Joseph Church, Chumukedima, those who intimate their details will be given 7th Mile opportunity to address campers. Arrival : 7th (Friday) October 2016, 5.00pm Departure : 10th (Monday) October 2016 I request your prayers for the success of the vocation camp and sincerely thank you for your co-operation. Eligibility of Candidates for Participation: 1. Candidate should be from class VII &VIII for Yours in Christ Jesus Boys & Girls: VII-XII 2. He/She should be from a good practising Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Catholic family. Vocation Promoter, Diocese of Kohima 3. He/She should be regular for catechism classes 4. As far as possible only one son/daughter in Contact: the family may not be encouraged for the camp. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Vocation Promoter 5. He/She should be sound physically, morally Bishop’s House, Post Box No. 519, and spiritually. Kohima – 797 001, Nagaland 6. He/She should be bright and at least average Phone No. 9436216599, in studies and also should have secured in Email: [email protected]/ the previous exams minimum 40% marks in all [email protected] major subjects.

Sharing: April - May 2016 -25

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Regional Members of 32nd Plenary Assembly As John Dewey says, ‘Education is not preparation of CBCI Prayed Stations of Mercy for life; education is life itself.” We in fact make our students to move towards a holistic growth that recreates a world in which they feel secure as a social being. Pope Francis says, “We must reaffirm the right of children to grow up in a family with a father and a mother. We need to see each child as a gift to be welcomed, cherished and protected.” Conforming to the above and feeling the responsibility as an educator to face the challenges in he 32 Plenary Assembly of CBCI (Catholic Bishops’ T the ministry of education the heads of educational Conference of India) witnessed the prayerful service on institutions of North East India came together at North the Stations of Mercy at St. John’s Medical College on East Diocesan Social Forum, Kharghuli, Guwahati from 4 March 2016. The bishops used the book on Stations 1st to 5thFebruary 2016. No doubt, it was a wonderful of Mercy which was prepared by Fr. Gilbert Choondal opportunity for all the educators to equip themselves sdb. The way of mercy (Via Misericordiae) is to help the with the Catholic Education Policy and the process of faithful to reflect on the mercy of God and to assess Implementation, along with the new Child Protection one’s acts of mercy in daily life. The Service was Policy& procedure adopted by CBCI. It was also an organised by Fr. Sagay John, the director of NBCLC, a opportunity to know more on the New Education Policy CBCI centre for Bible, Catechetics and Liturgy. of the government and the response of the Catholic The Stations are based on the 14 works of Church in India. Thanks to Rev.Fr. Joseph Manipadam mercy (Spiritual and Corporeal). The first seven Stations SDB, the National Secretary, CBCI office for Education are based on the Spiritual Works of Mercy. Here the & Culture, for enlightening the participants on 2nd February focus is on the deeds of Christ (Actiones Christi). The on the above said topics. subsequent seven Stations are based on the Corporal The rest of the days, more challenges were Works of Mercy. Here, the focus is on the person of thrown on to the participants by Rev. Fr. Varghese Christ (Persona Christi). Hence, the entire Way of Mercy Alengaden, through various examples, incidents and begins with the life of Christ and continues to His suffering happenings in and around the country. Through his and death. Each station contains moments of Social powerful talks he motivated and power packed the reflections, Reflections from the life of Christ (Actio participants to encounter the present day challenges with Christi and Persona Christi), prayer, quotes and acts of a daring spirit and fortitude. mercy. The movement from each station is led by a Gratefully the participants acknowledged the sequence that is in tune with the Anthem of the Year of initiatives taken and the efforts put in by the North Eastern Mercy. “The way of mercy is an apt service during this Education commission for organizing such an year of mercy especially lent”, said Fr. Sagay, the enlightening orientation to make the vision of the church director of NBCLC. - Correspondent come true. - Fr. G.P.Amalraj, Regional Secretary Seminar for Heads of Educational NEIRBC Commission for Education & Culture Institutions of NEI at NEDSF, Guwahati

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World seems to me that in the theme of divine mercy is Interview With Pope Benedict XVI expressed in a new way what is means by justification by faith.” He discussed how an old understanding of the In a recently published interview on issues of I Cross, articulated by St. Anselm, is difficult for modern justification and faith, Benedict XVI has addressed issues man to relate to because of its focus on justice and its of mercy and our need for forgiveness, salvation through apparent juxtaposition of the Father and the Son. the cross, the necessity of baptism, and the importance The emeritus Pope reflected that God “simply of sharing in Christ’s redeeming love. cannot leave ‘as is’ the mass of evil that comes from the The discussion with Fr. Jacques Servais, SJ, freedom that he himself has granted. Only He, coming took place ahead of an October, 2015 conference in to share in the world’s suffering, can redeem the world.” Rome studying the doctrine of justification by faith. In the Cross, he said, one perceives “what God’s mercy Benedict’s answers, originally in German, were means, what the participation of God in man’s suffering read aloud as a text at the conference by the Prefect of means. It is not a matter of a cruel justice, not a matter of the Pontifical Household, Archbishop Georg Gänswein. the Father’s fanaticism, but rather of the truth and the They were later published as the introduction to a book reality of creation: the true intimate overcoming of evil in Italian on the conference texts and conclusions, titled that ultimately can be realized only in the suffering of “Through Faith: Doctrine of Justification and Experience love.” The discussion then turned to the missionary of God in the Preaching of the Church and the Spiritual impulse, which was once informed by the conviction that Exercises,” by Fr. Daniel Libanori, SJ. all who died unbaptized would certainly go to hell. The emeritus Pope began by noting that faith Benedict noted, “there is no doubt that on this has both a personal and a communal nature, saying that point we are faced with a profound evolution of dogma” “the encounter with God means also, at the same time, and that since the 1950s “the understanding that God that I myself become open, torn from my closed solitude cannot let go to perdition all the unbaptized … has been and received into the living community of the Church.” fully affirmed.” He emphasized that both faith and the Church come He noted that the great missionaries of the 1500s from God, and are neither self-generating nor man-made. were compelled by their belief in the absolute necessity “The Church must introduce the individual of baptism for salvation, and that the changing Christian into an encounter with Jesus Christ and bring understanding of this necessity led to “a deep double Christians into His presence in the sacrament,” Benedict crisis”: a loss of motivation for missionary work, and a remarked. He then focused on modern man’s tendency loss of motivation for the faith itself. to ignore any personal sin and need for justification, The emeritus Pope addressed both the theory and to focus instead on the suffering in the world, of the ‘anonymous Christian’ and indifferentism as believing that God has to justify himself for this suffering. inadequate solutions to the crises, and offered instead “However, in my opinion, there continues to the idea that Christ’s loving suffering for the world is the exist, in another way, the perception that we are in need solution, which must become our model. of grace and forgiveness,” he said, pointing to the recent `He concluded by again emphasizing that the true solution emphasis on mercy in the pontificates of both St. John to evil is the love of Christ: “The counterweight to the Paul II and Pope Francis. dominion of evil can consist in the first place only in the Pope Francis’ “pastoral practice is expressed divine-human love of Jesus Christ that is always greater in the fact that he continually speaks to us of God’s than any possible power of evil.” mercy,” he said. “It is mercy that moves us toward God, “But it is necessary that we place ourselves while justice frightens us before Him.” inside this answer that God gives us through Jesus “In my view, this makes clear that, under a veneer Christ,” he added, saying that receiving the sacrament of self-assuredness and self-righteousness, the man of of confession “certainly has an important role in this field.” today hides a deep knowledge of his wounds and his Receiving confession, he said, “means that we unworthiness before God. He is waiting for mercy.” always allow ourselves to be molded and transformed Benedict suggested that the popularity of the by Christ and that we pass continuously from the side of parable of the Good Samaritan expresses this him who destroys to the side of Him who saves.” underlying desire for God and his mercy, adding that “it - CNA

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World “Mother Angelica was fearless because she had God Mother Angelica, Foundress of on her side,” Anderson added. “She saw what he needed EWTN, Dies on Easter her to do, and she did it! She transformed the world of Catholic broadcasting and brought the Gospel to far The Catholic Church in corners of our world. That witness of faith was the United States has lost unmistakable to anyone who met and worked with her, the Poor Clare nun who and generations of Catholics have and will continue to changed the face of be formed by her vision and her ‘Yes’ to God’s will.” Catholicism in the United - CNA/EWTN News States and around the world. Mother Mary Mother Teresa, Four Others, to be Angelica of the Canonized Annunciation, foundress of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), passed The Public Ordinary away on March 27 after a lengthy struggle with the after Consistory for the Canonisation effects of a stroke. She was 92 years old. of Blesseds began with the “Mother has always and will always personify celebration of Terce EWTN, the network that God asked her to found,” said (Midmorning Prayer), presided EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael over by Pope Francis in the Warsaw. “Her accomplishments and legacies in Consistory Hall at the Apostolic Palace. evangelization throughout the world are nothing short of Following the liturgical prayer, the Holy Father miraculous and can only be attributed to divine announced the upcoming canonization of five new saints, Providence and her unwavering faithfulness to Our Lord.” including Blessed Mother Teresa of Kolkata (née Anjezë In 1981, Mother Angelica launched Eternal Word Gonxhe Bojaxhiu), whose work among the “poorest of Television Network, which today transmits 24-hour-a-day the poor” won her worldwide acclaim. Hundreds of programming to more than 264 million homes in 144 Missionaries of Charity, members of the religious order countries. What began with approximately 20 employees founded by Mother Teresa, are expected to be in Rome has now grown to nearly 400. The religious network for her canonization, set for 4 September 2016. broadcasts terrestrial and shortwave radio around the From Poland, Blessed Stanis³aus of Jesus and world, operates a religious goods catalog and publishes Mary (né Jan Papczynski) was a member of the Piarist the National Catholic Register and Catholic News Agency, Order. After leaving the Piarists, Bd Stanis³aus founded among other publishing ventures. the Marians of the Immaculate Conception. Blessed Maria “Mother Angelica succeeded at a task the Elizabeth Hesselblad of Sweden, a convert from nation’s bishops themselves couldn’t achieve,” said Lutheranism, founded a new branch of Bridgettine sisters, Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia, who has dedicated to working and praying for the unity of served on EWTN’s board of governors since 1995. “She Scandinavian Christians with the Church. She will be the founded and grew a network that appealed to everyday first Swedish saint in more than 600 years. Catholics, understood their needs and fed their spirits. The two northern Europeans will be canonized together She had a lot of help, obviously, but that was part of her on Sunday, 5 June, of this year. The Holy Father also genius.” announced the canonization of Blessed José Gabriel “In passing to eternal life, Mother Angelica del Rosario, from Pope Francis’ native Argentina, known leaves behind a legacy of holiness and commitment to as the “gaucho priest.” Like the famous Argentinian the New Evangelization that should inspire us all,” said cattlemen, he travelled on a mule throughout the vast Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of territory of his parish in order to be close to the members Columbus. “I was honored to know and be able to assist of his flock. He will be canonized on 16 October 2016, Mother Angelica during the early days of EWTN. Over along with Blessed José Luis Sánchez del Río of Mexico. the years, that relationship grew, and today the Knights Blessed José was just fourteen-years-old when he was of Columbus and EWTN partner regularly on important martyred by the Mexican government during the Cristeros projects.” War, after refusing to deny his Faith. - CNA/EWTN News

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World A Letter From the Sisters Who were Olive Branches for World Youth Day Killed in Yemen in Krakow Olive branches from the Holy Land, Montecassino and Assisi will be blessed by the Pope on Palm Sunday and will be sent on to Krakow, where they will be given by the youth to civil and ecclesiastical authorities involved in organizing WYD 2016. “We Live Together and Die Together” The initiative, sponsored by several Polish youth The Missionaries’ last letter, sent in June 2015, reads in volunteers in cooperation with the planning committee part: for World Youth Day, was inspired by a phrased used Whenever we hear heavy bombing we kneel by the Pontiff in the Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee: “Mercy before the Blessed Sacrament exposed, begging the is the force that reawakens us to new life and instils in us merciful Jesus to protect us and our poor and to grant the courage to look to the future with hope” (Misericordiae peace to this nation. We never tire of knocking at the Vultus, 10). heart of God, trusting that there will be an end to it. While The organizers, who are currently in Italy, the war continues we calculate how much food will be explained that it is about fostering an authentic spirit of enough. The bombings continue, the shootings is from forgiveness and reconciliation. These are the foundation all over and we use flour just for today. How are we of mercy and instil peace in the heart. The purpose of going to feed our poor tomorrow? With loving trust and the olive branch is to symbolize the truth of mercy which total abandonment, the five of us we run towards our cannot exist without forgiveness and reconciliation. The halfway house, even when the bombardment is heavy. youth volunteers want to emphasize that in order to We take refuge under trees sometimes thinking deserve the title “merciful”, everyone must overcome that this is the hand of God that protects us. And then we all divisions. The olive branches will be delivered to run again quickly to assist our poor who await us calm. representative of civil and ecclesiastical institutions and They are very old, some are blind, others have physical to citizens of Krakow, inviting them to forgiveness, to or mental disabilities. Soon we begin our work by reconciliation and cooperation, in order to be worthy of cleaning, washing, cooking using the last sacks of flour experiencing the Holy of Mercy and to give the best and the last of its oil bottles like the story of the Prophet possible welcome to participants in WYD. Elijah and the widow. God can never be outdone in - CNA/EWTN News generosity as long as we remain with him and his poor people. When the shelling is heavy we hide under the Pope Francis Washes Feet of stairs, all five always united. ‘We live together, we die Refugees on Holy Thursday together with Jesus and Mary our Mother.’ -CNA / TV2000 Pope Francis has visited a refugee centre to wash and kiss the feet of Muslim, Orthodox, Hindu and Catholic When the Eucharist is being refugees — a gesture of welcome at a time when anti- celebrated, the sanctuary is filled Muslim and anti-immigrant sentiment has risen after the Brussels and Paris attacks. with countless angels who adore the Francis celebrated the traditional Easter Week foot- divine victim immolated on the altar. washing ceremony at a refugee shelter in Castelnuovo ~ St. John Chrysostom di Porto, outside Rome, inaugurating the most solemn period of the Catholic Church’s Easter season.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World Titled “Amoris Laetitia,” on love in the family, the document will officially be presented to journalists next Friday, April 8, in Italian, French, English, German, Spanish and Portuguese. Speakers presenting the exhortation will include Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, general secretary of the Synod of Bishops and Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, O.P., Archbishop of Vienna. Additionally, married couple Francesco Miano, a lecturer in moral philosophy at the University of Rome The Holy Thursday rite re-enacts the foot-washing ritual at Tor Vergata, and his wife Giuseppina De Simone in Jesus performed on his apostles before being crucified, Miano, a lecturer in philosophy at the Theological Faculty and is meant as a gesture of service. of Southern Italy in Naples, will also be among the Migrant issues highlighted in Pope’s Mexico visit panelists presenting the document. Francis was greeted with a banner reading “Welcome” The apostolic exhortation is the conclusion of a in a variety of languages as he processed down a two-year synod process discussing both the beauty and makeshift aisle to celebrate the outdoor Mass. challenges of family life today. A fraction of the 892 asylum seekers living at In 2014 the Vatican hosted an Extraordinary the shelter attended, though others milled around nearby Synod which was in preparation for the October 2015 and filmed the event on their smartphones. Ordinary Synod. An estimated 190 bishops from around Vatican rules had long called for only men to the world participated in each gathering. participate in the ritual, and past popes and many priests The 2015 synod, which the Pope’s exhortation traditionally performed it on 12 Catholic men, recalling is expected to focus on, was themed “the vocation and Jesus’ 12 apostles and further cementing the doctrine mission of the family in the church and the modern world.” of an all-male priesthood. Both synods were marked by controversy, particularly But after years of violating the rules outright, regarding the hot-button topics of ministry to homosexuals Francis in January changed the regulations to explicitly and the divorced-and-remarried, which dominated the allow women and girls to participate. - CNA/EWTN News majority of media coverage. Discussion in the synod hall, however, also Pope Francis’ Post-synod Doc touched on a variety of issues such as marriage preparation, pornography, and domestic violence and to be Released - April 8 abuse. Francis’ exhortation is expected to be based largely on the final report from the synod, which was released Oct. 24. That report reflected collegiality among the bishops, though two of the 94 paragraphs were included by only a slim margin. Rumors have consistently circulated as to what the Pope will say regarding the issues of communion and homosexuality. However, in a recent book-length interview with Italian journalist Andrea Tornielli titled “The Name of God is Mercy,” Francis dropped a few hints that there will be no eyebrow raisers, and that not much will change in terms of Church teaching and current pastoral practice. The Vatican announced Thursday that Pope Francis’ - CNA/EWTN News highly anticipated post-synodal apostolic exhortation on the gifts and challenges of family life will be published If we really understood the Mass, we April 8. would die of joy. - Saint Jean Vianney

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World communion and closeness to many brothers and sisters, Pope Francis sends Vestments, whose situation of affliction and tribulation pains me Financial Aid to Iraqi Christians deeply and invites us to defend the inalienable right of every person to freely profess their faith.” The Pope invited delegation members not to forget “the drama of the persecution,” and added that the “courageous and patient witness” of Christians in Iraq “represents for the entire Church a call to rediscover the fruitful source of the Paschal Mystery from which energy, strength and light for a new humanism are drawn.” As part of their visit, the group will meet with Archbishop Youhanna Boutros Moshe of the Syriac Archeparchy of Mosul, who left the city when it was overrun by the Islamic State in June, 2014. They will also meet with the Chaldean Archbishop Vatican City, Mar 31, 2016 / 01:05 pm (CNA/EWTN of Erbil, Bashar Warda, who will take them to refugee News).- As a sign of affection and closeness, Pope centers in a mainly Christian suburb of Erbil called Francis has decided to send vestments used in the Ankawa. liturgy and a financial donation to Christian refugees in Additionally, the group will stop by the village of Erbil through the Catholic pastoral charity Aid to the Fr. Werenfried, named after the founder of ACN, where Church in Need. 175 Christian families are currently living. The trip will “Mercy invites us to bend over these brothers also include visits to ACN schools, which allow nearly of ours in order to dry their tears, to heal their moral and 7,000 Iraqi refugee children to continue their education. physical wounds, and to console their afflicted and Since 2014 ACN has donated more than 15.1 million perhaps lost hearts,” the Pope said in a letter addressed euros ($17.2 million) to support Christian refugees and to Bishop Francesco Cavina of Carpi. displaced persons in Iraq. To do this, the Pope said, is not just “an act of The organization stepped up their efforts to offer proper charity, but a relief to your own body, because support during Lent, when the Italian branch promoted all Christians, by virtue of their shared baptism, are ‘one’ six projects aimed at offering aid to the 250,000 Christians in Christ.” still in Iraq. The dioceses of Carpi and Ventimiglia-San Bishop Cavina will be part of a delegation Remo have also joined the effort, offering their own traveling to Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, April 1-4 donations. - CNA/EWTN News with Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). Other members of the delegation will include Your Task is to Incarnate Mercy, Bishop Antonio Suetta of Ventimiglia-San Remo, Fr. Pope Francis tells Priests Massimo Fabbri in representation of the Archdiocese of Bologna, and Alessandro Monteduro, director of ACN in During Holy Thursday’s Chrism Mass Pope Francis Italy, who will serve as the group’s guide. focused on the topic of mercy, telling priests that one of In a March 23 article published on ACN’s website, their primary tasks is to make mercy visible in the same Bishop Cavina said that as soon as Pope Francis heard way as Jesus, who always gave it in excess. about the delegation’s visit, he called expressing his “As priests, we are witnesses to and ministers desire “to send a gift to our brothers in the faith in Iraq.” of the ever-increasing abundance of the Father’s mercy; This gift includes vestments and a personal financial we have the rewarding and consoling task of incarnating donation, which the Pope will entrust to Bishop Cavina, mercy, as Jesus did,” the Pope said March 24. who will then give it to the local Church when the He told priests that they have a special role in delegation arrives. enculturating mercy, “so that each person can embrace In his letter to the bishop, Francis said the trip is it and experience it personally.” This, he said, “will help “an initiative which expresses friendship, ecclesial all people truly understand and practice mercy with

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World son returns, we should not be fearful of exaggerating our gratitude,” he said. Our attitude when we encounter the mercy of the Father, he said, should mirror that of the leper who, after being healed, leaves the nine others who do what Jesus ordered and returns to Jesus, kneeling at his feet and glorifying God aloud. “Mercy restores everything; it restores dignity to each person,” the Pope said, adding that this is the reason why “effusive gratitude is the proper response.” Pope Francis then pointed to the second area of forgiveness, saying that “God does not only forgive creativity, in ways that respect their local cultures and incalculable debts,” but he also enables us to “move families.” directly from the most shameful disgrace to the highest Pope Francis spoke to those present in St. dignity without any intermediary stages.” Peter’s Basilica for the Chrism Mass, which takes place However, he noted that we frequently tend to in the Catholic Church each year on Holy Thursday and separate the attitudes of shame and dignity. When we involves the blessing of oils used for the sacraments of are ashamed of our sins, he said, “we hide ourselves Confirmation, Holy Orders and the Anointing of the Sick. and walk around with our heads down, like Adam and As part of the Mass all priests, bishops and cardinals Eve.” present renewed the promises they made on the day of On the other hand, when we elevated to some their ordination. Francis began his homily by noting how sort of rank of dignity, “we try to cover up our sins and during his life, Jesus was a sign of contradiction, just as take pleasure in being seen, almost showing off.” The the elderly prophet Simeon had predicted. “By his words only response to God’s abundant forgiveness, Francis and actions, Jesus lays bare the secrets of the heart of said, “should be always to preserve that healthy tension every man and woman,” he said, noting that in the between a dignified shame and a shamed dignity.” This Gospel, the privileged place where Jesus preaches the is the attitude of someone “who seeks a humble and Father’s unconditional mercy is to the poor, the outcast lowly place, but who can also allow the Lord to raise him and the oppressed. up for the good of the mission, without complacency,” “(This) is the very place we are called to take a he observed. stand and fight the good fight,” Francis said, explaining Francis then pointed to the prophet Isaiah’s that Jesus also fought, but never to build power. words “You will be called priests of the Lord, ministers “If he breaks down walls and challenges our sense of of our God.” The people the Lord chooses to transform security, he does this to open the flood gates of that into a priestly people, he noted, are precisely the poor, mercy which, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, he wants hungry, prisoners of war, those with no future and those to pour out upon our world.” are “cast to one side and rejected.” A priest must identify He then pointed to two areas where he said God shows with people who are excluded, the Pope said, and “an excess” of mercy. These areas, he said, are encouraged the clergy present to remind themselves encounter and forgiveness. On the theme of encounter, that there are “countless masses of people who are poor, the Pope explained that Jesus gives of himself uneducated, prisoners, who find themselves in such “completely and in such a way that every encounter leads situations because others oppress them.” However, he to rejoicing.” cautioned that a priest must also keep in mind the extent Francis pointed to the parable of the prodigal to which he himself is “blind, lacking the radiant light of son, calling it the parable of the “Merciful Father,” in which faith, not because we do not have the Gospel close at the father waits for his son, runs out to meet him, kisses hand, but because of an excess of complicated him, gives him a ring and throws a party. theology.” When thinking about the “superabundance of the Father’s Often times a priest can feel trapped, though joy that is freely and boundlessly expressed when his not with the stone walls that enclose others, he said.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic World Instead, a priest can feel imprisoned by “a digital, virtual crowded park and detonated his explosives-packed worldliness that is opened and closed by a simple click.” vest. The outfit claimed their target was the Christians “We are oppressed, not by threats and pressures, like who were celebrating Easter. However, most of the so many poor people, but by the allure of a thousand people who got killed during the attack were Muslims. commercial advertisements which we cannot shrug off Pope Francis mourned victims of the terrorist attack. He to walk ahead, freely, along paths that lead us to love of asked the people all over the world to pray for the dead our brothers and sisters,” the Pope observed. and the injured, during his Regina Caeli address on However, despite the many trials and temptations Monday. He condemned the terrorist attack and called it a priest can face, “Jesus comes to redeem us, to send a senseless and cowardly crime. Pope Francis said the us out, to transform us from being poor and blind, Easter for the Pakistani Christians was bloodied by the imprisoned and oppressed, to become ministers of attack during which several innocent people were mercy and consolation.” massacred. He appealed to the authorities of the nation Pope Francis concluded his homily by praying to ensure safety to its citizens, especially for the religious that during the Jubilee of Mercy, all would be able to minorities. He said that the only way to achieve peace receive “with a dignity that is able to humble itself, the is through respect for your fellow beings and via fraternity. mercy revealed in the wounded flesh of our Lord Jesus Hatred and violence will only lead to destruction and Christ.” - CNA/EWTN News pain. Pope said the resurrection of Jesus Christ Pope Francis Condemns “Cowardly” arouses in us a will to pray with conviction, to stop the Attack that Killed 70+ Pakistan hands that sow terror and death, and thus bring an era of Christians peace, love, reconciliation, and justice in the world. Lahore is one of the political strongholds of the Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. He visited the wounded people in the Hospital, and also canceled his trip to Washington for the nuclear summit. The Pakistani security forces have already arrested a number of suspects from different parts of the country. Lieutenant General Asim Bajwa, an army spokesman said they recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition during one of the many raids conducted in the Lahore city. - CNA/EWTN News

Pakistan witnessed its worst terrorist attack this year during the Easter Sunday. More than 70 people dead, including women and children. Around 300 injured. According to Pakistani authorities, 29 children were killed in the attack. The attack happened at Gulshan-e- Iqbal park, in Lahore, the second largest city in Pakistan. The suicide bomber from the outfit Jamaat ul-Ahrar, a splinter faction of the Pakistani Taliban, walked into the

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Mothers’ Day (Sunday, 8th May) TRUE STORY - A MOTHER’S LOVE- A baby boy David was born to a certain family. The mum was so excited that she hardly put him down. One day she left him sleeping and went to the garden. When she was there, the house caught fire and she ran back home as fast as possible to save her only son. People tried to stop her but they didn’t succeed. She went in and found the baby untouched. Unfortunately her hair caught fire as she was going out and she started burning. It was very bad for the rest of her life because she had to live with a scar. The boy grew up and became very rich and shifted to town. But in the real sense, he was ashamed of his mother’s scars. When people asked him, he would say, “l don’t have someone so ugly in our family as my mother”. One day his mum overheard how his son was telling people and she was very disappointed. She A Mother’s Love decided to travel to town to explain to his only son what - by Michael O. Adesanya had happened and the reason behind her ugliness. But unfortunately, the bus she was travelling with, got an There are times only when a Mother’s loveCan accident and the mum died instantly. understand our tears,Can soothe our The boy heard of the news, and felt very disappointmentsAnd calm all our fears. happy. He then rushed to the village and found people There are times when only a Mother’s LoveCan share sad. He just passed them and went direct to her mother’s the joy we feelWhen something we’ve dreamed room to search for important documents. He was aboutQuite suddenly is real. shocked to find her MUM’s oldest DIARY BOOK written, There are times when only a Mother’s faithCan help on DATE: 5th Sept 1980. I was announced the WINNER OF life’s wayAnd inspire in us the confidenceWe need MISS TORONTO BEAUTY CONTEST. from day to day. DATE: 14th Jan 1982. My husband Tonny Gateson For a Mother’s heart and a Mother’s faithAnd a passed away in road accident and left me six months Mother’s steadfast loveWere fashioned by the pregnant. AngelsAnd sent from God above... DATE: 2nd July 1983. I saved my only son David from a fire and I ended up loosing my hair while scars left on my face. David felt too bad and started crying, but it was TOO LATE!TOO LATE! · PLEASE NOTE: Never try to Abuse or Ignore your Parents. They are a blessing to us and you will cry when they are gone. Now, you have two thing to choose.

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic - World Women Drive Peace and He lauded all the women who, “even in the most difficult circumstances,” have found a way to “distinguish Development, Vatican Rep tells UN themselves for their bravery, constancy and dedication” in the development of their nations through work in “education, healthcare and values formation.” He thanked the Council for its work in raising awareness about “the vital role of women in preventive diplomacy, mediation, peacekeeping missions and peace-building processes,” but said that this recognition “must be fully translated into action.” The archbishop highlighted the work of the Catholic Church in supporting the “inspiring work of African women” on their path to foster human dignity in their countries by standing up for the weak, preventing violence in their communities, and caring for victims of conflict. However, the Church must continue its work in support African women in political power and diplomatic The Holy See paid homage to all women and girls influence by to provide education to future generations who have selflessly served others in education, of leaders. healthcare, and forming the youth and upheld the four “I am proud to say that the Catholic Church in Africa is the Missionaries of Charity murdered in Yemen as an leading provider of quality education for all, ensuring to example of women with unwavering dedication to peace. the best of its possibilities that no woman or girl would “My delegation feels duty-bound at this moment to be left unschooled, preparing them to become dignified remember with gratitude and sorrow the four Missionary agents of their own personal flourishing and active Sisters of the Charity Sister Anselm from India, Sister protagonists in building strong families and peaceful Marguerite and Sister Reginette from Rwanda, and Sister societies.” Judit from Kenya, who were massacred by cowardly Women in leadership positions are especially fundamentalists on March 4 in Aden, Yemen,” a Vatican helpful to those who have been victims of rape or spokesperson told the United Nations Security Council violence, he said. Some find it easier to trust March 28. organizations run by women, many of whom are religious “There is no greater sacrifice for peace and sisters or nuns, than men. reconciliation than to lay down one’s life for it,” he said. Still, it is difficult for many women to “emancipate “May their blood these be seeds for a peaceful and themselves” from abuse and exclusion, especially in reconciled Yemen!” Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent areas of conflict where rape is used as a weapon of war, Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, or where women are coerced into marriage, conversion Archbishop Bernardito Auza said. or abortions. His address was part of the U.N. Security Council “Instead of being eradicated, some of these acts Open Debate entitled, “Women, peace and security: The of violence have re-emerged in even crueler forms, role of women in conflict prevention and resolution in constituting some of the most horrendous violations of Africa.” The archbishop explained that women are human rights,” he said. “beyond crucial” to conflict resolution and peace-building The U.N. Security Council and all governments efforts, as is their “special gift” of showing others “to be have a particular obligation to “put an end to these more receptive and sensitive to the needs of others.” barbaric acts.” - CNA/EWTN News Therefore, it is essential that the work of women in these initiatives is highlighted and supported by the U.N. It would be easier for the world to survive without the sun than to do Security Council and all participating governments, without Holy Mass. especially in the area of education, he said. ~ St. Pio of Pietrelcina

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic - World More Than 25,000 March for Life and Family in Ecuador

Luciano Lamonarca, president and CEO of the Saint Pio Foundation, told CNA March 30. Under the theme “Love in motion,” more than 25,000 “Because we know that veterans suffer as much as other people participated in the ninth annual the Day of the people, we decided to establish a kind of annual grant Unborn Child Walk in several cities in Ecuador. that would help the veterans in having some relief,” he The event’s purpose is to publicly express the said. The effort also recognizes their service to their massive support for defending life and the natural family. country. In Quito, the March 19 event was livened up by music The New York-based Saint Pio Foundation groups, pro-life testimonies, theater and symbolic floats. promotes the charism of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, The cities of Tena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, colloquially known as “Padre Pio.” The Franciscan Loja, Cuenca and Esmeraldas joined the event in the Capuchin priest was a stigmatist, a mystic and a miracle- nation’s capital. worker. He ministered in the Italian city of San Giovanni Under the coordination of the Quito Auxiliary Rotondo from 1916 until his death in 1968. Bishop Danilo Echeverría, who heads up the Life and The foundation has made its first donation of Family Pastoral Ministry of the Ecuadorian Bishops $20,000 to the homeless veterans program of the Conference, the event drew together different lay Catholic movements, women’s citizen groups, parish youth group Department of Veterans Affairs’ Maryland Health Care organizations, international family associations and pro- System. Another $10,000 grant is planned for this year. life and pro-family groups and movements. The donation aims to provide homeless veterans with “There was a massive turnout!” said Amparo transportation assistance, meals, clothing, and household Medina, coordinator of the Life and Family Network of supplies when they get apartments. The donation will Ecuador, speaking to CNA. also support the clothing room, the kitchen and the In the Ecuadorian capital alone, it is estimated laundry facility at the VA Maryland Health Care System’s there were more than 15,000 people at the event. Community Resource & Referral Center, which supports - CNA/EWTN News homeless veterans. Lamonarca said some of the homeless veterans Padre Pio Inspires Help for Homeless are very poor and sometimes cannot afford to travel to Veterans in Maryland the facility to eat or to spend the night. The foundation acts in Padre Pio’s name “to bring any relief to suffering” and to give food and shelter to those who live on the St. Padre Pio’s spiritual life inspired many veterans street. “We like to bring Padre Pio out to the people,” of the Second World War – and now, his example has he said. helped inspire support for homeless veterans in The foundation cited Padre Pio’s service in the Maryland. Italian army’s medical corps during World War I. He “Wherever there is suffering in the healing befriended many military personnel during World War II, process, Padre Pio has been known to bring relief,” including American servicemen. Lamonarca said Padre

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ NEWS - Catholic - World Pio had a “very strong” relationship with many American Divine Mercy Meets World Youth Day servicemen. “Many people do not know that Padre Pio got this Summer in Poland to be known in the United States after the Second World War because all the G.I.s returning to this country were speaking about him. Many of them actually returned to San Giovanni Rotondo to live close to Padre Pio while he was alive. Some of them even became priests.” VA officials welcomed the support. “We’re grateful that the Saint Pio Foundation has recognized our efforts to serve homeless veterans,” Dr. Adam M. Robinson, director of the VA Maryland Health Krakow’s role in the Divine Mercy devotion could Care System said March 24. mean great things for World Youth Day this year, said The foundation’s other supported projects the city’s archbishop, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz. “Krakow is the center of the devotion to the Merciful include the Home for the Relief of Suffering and Padre Jesus, and the same Jesus said that from here a fire Pio’s Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; the will go out to prepare the whole world for the meeting Archdiocese for Military Services; and the Path to Peace with Jesus,” the cardinal told CNA March 18. Foundation, which complements the work of the Holy World Youth Day will take place in Krakow July See’s mission to the United Nations. 26-31. The event draws hundreds of thousands of young Lamonarca has a special devotion to Padre Pio, people from around the world. Cardinal Dziwisz spoke a devotion which strengthened when he immigrated to with CNA about his hopes for the event. He reflected on the devotion to the Divine Mercy that blossomed in America. “He has touched so many lives and converted Krakow. The devotion followed St. Faustina Kowalska’s many people,” he said. “He touched my life through his private revelation of Jesus Christ, who asked the Polish motto ‘pray, hope and don’t worry’.” He said he hopes nun to deliver to the world the teaching of his Divine that the foundation’s support will help veterans learn more Mercy. St. Faustina died in Krakow in 1938 at the age of about Padre Pio’s life and encourage them “to pray to 33. She was canonized in the year 2000 and is venerated Padre Pio daily, to ask Padre Pio to help them carry on as the “Secretary of Divine Mercy.” through their pain and their suffering and to hope in Jesus, The Divine Mercy devotion spread far and wide thanks to St. John Paul II. During the Second World with the intercession of Padre Pio.” War, he used to pray in the convent of Sister Faustina “Padre Pio has been known internationally. I like before going to work in the Solvay chemical factory. As to say he’s not just a saint that belongs to the Catholic Pope, John Paul II declared the first Sunday after Easter Church. He belongs to any kind of people of faith.” to be Divine Mercy Sunday. Cardinal Dziwisz suggested The foundation will hold its second annual award that this awareness of the Divine Mercy revelation ceremony on May 27 at the Naval Heritage Center in continues under Pope Francis. The upcoming World Washington, D.C. Honorees include veterans’ advocates Youth Day takes place in the Year of Mercy proclaimed by the Pope. The focus of the Year of Mercy combines like actor Gary Sinise and Jim Nicholson, former U.S. “very well” with the World Youth Day theme, “Blessed Secretary for Veterans Affairs and past U.S. Ambassador are the merciful,” he said. to the Holy See. “After these gatherings, the youth are more Guests at the dinner include Cardinal Donald Wuerl of committed to the life of the Church, even more joyful, Washington and Archbishop Bernardito Auza, the with more hope for the future. World Youth Day made apostolic nuncio of the Holy See heading the permanent blossom vocations to the priesthood, to the consecrated life, as well as so many friendships that sometimes turn observer mission to the United Nations and to the into marriages,” he said. Cardinal Dziwisz added that Organization of American States. - CNA/EWTN News he expects the World Youth Day “will be lived in an atmosphere of friendship. In Europe there are still many The angels surround and help the priest curtains, many barriers…but always, young people when he is celebrating Mass. change when they meet the Pope.” ~ St. Augustine - CNA/EWTN News

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Young Girls Who Wish to Embrace Religious Life are Welcome to Sponsor’s Columnthe SABS (Sisters of the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament) Congregation Tripura. Province is blessed with 70 sisters from the soil of North East. They are belonging to Adivasi, Ao, khasi, Kom, Konyak, Kuki, Lotha, Monsang, Phom, Poumei, Rabha, Rongmei, Sema, Shantali, Thangkul, Yimchunger, Zou, and Rengma Tribes etc. OUR CHARISM: Our charism is the devotion to the Holy Eucharist, which consists in a life of total surrender, result of a deep experience of His presence within our hearts. The core of this devotion is a deep personal attachment to Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; OUR SPIRITUALITY: Our spirituality is the Eucharistic therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers spirituality centred on the Holy Eucharist, which consists into His harvest” (Mt 9:37, 38). in becoming holocausts in order to give life to others. Contemplating the face of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, Short History of the Congregation we lead a life of deep humility, infinite love and unending The Sisters of the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament mercy. Therefore our spirit is one of self-sacrifice, the (SABS) is a Religious Women Congregation founded essence of which is an attitude of self-gift and asceticism. in Kerala, India on Dec.8, 1908. The founder is It demands from us a readiness to give up all that we Venerable Mar Thomas Kurialacherry, the first Bishop are and all that we have for the love of God. of Changanacherry and a native of Champakulam in OUR MOTTO: LOVE, SACRIFICE AND SERVICE Alappuzha district in Kerala. Co-Foundress and the first member of the congregation is Mother Mary Francisca OUR MINISTRY: The 4,630 SABS, serving the church de Chantal of Vallayil family in Champakulam. Their love in 10 nations of the world put all our effort to spread the towards the Eucharistic Lord in the Blessed Sacrament Eucharistic love through their apostolic compelled them to dedicate their lives to the Eucharistic activities. Lord and they desired ardently to make known, loved OUR OBJECTIVE is to make known, loved and adored and adored the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament by all, by all of all Jesus in the Holy Eucharist for this we take always and everywhere. The congregation started with the Eucharistic Lord to the: Parish ministry and faith 5 members has now grown into 623 convents in 115 formation, mission and evangelization, education dioceses spread across the globe and radiate the apostolate, healing ministry, communication media and Eucharistic Love through perpetual adoration of the social apostolate. Blessed Sacrament and various ministries for the people INVITATION around. At present, the congregation of SABS has about 4630 sisters spread over 11 provinces in Kerala, 7 All those who have the natural aptitude towards mission provinces in India and one in East Africa. 282 Eucharistic adoration and community life and have candidates are preparing to dedicate their beautiful lives completed metric and above are most welcome to SABS to the Eucharistic Lord as a pleasing victim for the Congregation. salvation of the souls. Our Address: Corpus Christi Province, Dimapur Vocation Promoter SABS Provincial House, Dimapur province (Corpus Christi) has 27 houses 7th Mile, P B No. 24 spread out in six states of North East India namely Chumukedima, Nagaland - 797112 Assam, Arunachal, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya and Ph: 03862240059

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