November, a Historical Event Took Place in the Village of Anatongre

Editor’s Note... Dear Readers, On the 26th November, a historical event took place in the village of Anatongre. It was the blessing and dedication of newly the constructed Catholic Church. Catholics from all parts of Nagaland, gathered together for the event, to encourage the handful of Catholics who stood all odds to remain faithful to their convictions. What touched the hearts and brought tears into the eyes of all who participated in the momentous event was not the paraphernalia that surrounded the event but the spontaneous regret expressed in a tangible way by the Baptist community, who had in the past fought tooth and nail, obstructing the Catholic Church from entering into the village and establishing her presence. It was a sort of public confession, done in a traditional way. The elders and youngsters, clad in traditional attire, in unison sung a traditional song, with a touch of melancholy and asked God and their catholic brethren’s forgiveness for all the harm inflicted in the past. As I listened to the words of the songs, I forgot everything and I was overtaken by emotion, which was best expressed through my soaked eyes. I am sure, everyone who understood it’s meaning has felt the same. It is an amazing gesture from the part of the Baptist brethren. I do not know what prompted them to come forward and express in public the remorse of their past actions but one thing, I am convinced, there was the intervention of God. No matter, who we are, we all belong to a God who is loving and we are brothers and sisters to each other.

Months of November and December are the time of tribal Cultural festivals. Such cultural festivals are proceeded by the festival of all festivals, the Christmas. The whole world is gearing up to celebrate the most important event in the history of the world. The towns and villages are getting illumined, shops are filled with gifts and decorations, new Christmas songs are all out, people from the hills and remote villages are travelling down to the plains to purchase Christmas gift and the shop keepers are all extraordinarily courteous. All these are on account of this great festival called Christmas.

Today Christmas mean different things to different people. For shop keepers, it’s a time to make money, for people who are working away from the families, it’s the time of reunion and so on. But for us, Catholics it is the celebration of God’s love towards each one of us, because out of his love, he opted to send his only Son with gifts of peace, love and Joy. These are gratuitous gift from God. Pope Pius VI once said, “we consider Christmas as the encounter, the great encounter, the historical encounter, the decisive encounter, between God and mankind. He who has faith knows this truly; let him rejoice”

Unfortunately, to a large extent, these gifts have eluded the world. There is violence, unforgiveness, intolerance in the world. We can be beacons of these gifts, only when we recognize God’s generosity. Simple acts of unselfishness and thoughtfulness are at the heart of Christmas. Roy L Smith once said, “He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree”. In the midst of external preparation, let’s remind ourselves that our hearts have to become mangers for Jesus so that he can dwell in us. I wish all the readers, a joy- filled Christmas and prosperous New Year 2014.

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123456781 BISHOP’S PROGRAMME EDITOR DECEMBER 2013 - FEBRUARY 2014 Fr. Thomas Toretkiu December 2013 01 Kohima Ph: 09436216599 02 Longsa – Blessing of the Foundation for the new school 03-07 Kohima 08 GSS & Chavara Home, Dimapur EDITORIAL BOARD 09-13 Chennai Fr. Sojan Puthankudy 14 Kohima, Christmas Program organized Fr. Loyola Antony by CAN Sr. Kaisa Rosalind CMC 15 Longsa Jubilee Mr. Tosovi Philip Khale 16-17 Kohima 18-19 Priests’ Meeting / Diocesan Pastoral Plan and other meetings 20 Dimapur; Governing Board Meeting of MANAGEMENT STAFF DAN, HRHC Catholic Publication Centre 21 Dimapur - Jubilee – Burma Camp 22 Kidima: Jubilee CYA (CPC) 23 Zunheboto 24 Dimapur 25 Kohima PUBLISHER 27 Khonoma Diocese of Kohima 28-31 Priestly Ordination of Dea. Emmanuel & Lotha Youth Convention January 2014 01-03 Kohima 04-05 Khonoma: Angami Catholic Women LAYOUT & DESIGN Conference Flora Kent 06-08 Kohima 09-11 Tunjoy Parish – Poumai Conference & Jubilee SHARING 12 Holy Cross, Dimapur – Sumi Catholic Diocese of Kohima Association Convention 13-17 Dimapur / Kohima Bishop’s House 18-20 Pughoboto – Silver Jubilee Post Box No. 519 21-31 Kottayam - Centenary celebration of KOHIMA - 797 001 Bl. Mathew Makil Nagaland - India February 2014 01-17 Palai - CBCI & CCBI Meetings email: [email protected] 20-21 Kohima www.kohimadiocese.org 22 Governing Body Meeting, Jalukie College The Sharing is published bi-monthly 27 Consulters Meeting and Priests by the Diocese of Kohima. All the Recollection news, articles, questions, reader- 28 Diocesan Pastoral Council – Mt. Tabor reactions etc are to be addressed to the editor. Your articles, news Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil item could be submitted through Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland CD, pendrive and mail attachment. Please include your name and mail- (for Private Circulation only)

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12345678 123456782 12345678 NORTH EAST YOUTH PEACE & CULTURAL the solemn Eucharistic celebration and many priests FESTIVAL 2013 concelebrated with him. Bishop congratulated the novices and their parents for the great sacrifices th The 6 North they have made for God and His people. Mother East Peace Sibia, Provincial Superior welcomed the congrega- & Cultural Festival was tion gathered for the solemn celebration. The pres- held at Holy ence of Sr. Cyrilla SABS the General Councillor added Cross Hr. much joy and happiness to everyone. Sec. School – SABS Provincialate Campus, Dimapur from 20th – 23rd September 2013. In the Valedictory function Bishop James Thoppil, ‘YOUTH FEST’ AT SALESIAN COLLEGE, Bishop of Nagaland, Hushili Sema IAS and many DIMAPUR other VIPs and dignitaries were present to witness the function. His Lordship James Thoppil stated that ‘Peace was the parting gift to the world by Christ and he encouraged every youth to be agent of peace in the society.’ Smt Hushili Sema, DC of Dimapur quoted the Bible saying ‘blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called children of God’ and exhorted every youth to do the same. There were around 800 participants from different parts of As part of Salesian College’s Sunday ministry, the Northeast attended for the program. The peace ‘Youth Fest’ was held on 29th September, 2013, with award was conferred to Mr. Lovitho Sema. the theme ‘Youth and faith.’ Youth from various - Correspondent hostels and villages in and around Dimapur marked PARENTS DAY AT AHSS the red letter day. The day’s celebration began with the youth gathering for prayer and the Holy mass Assisi Higher Secondary presided over by Rev. Fr. Nestor Guria, provincial of School Dimapur (Evening the Salesian Province of Dimapur. Rev. Fr. Thomas, Section) celebrated its Parish Priest of Holy Cross Dimapur was chief guest. Parents’ Day at Assisi Hall, Prizes for the Bible skit and Bosco sing-out Dimapur on 28th September competitions that was conducted on August 25 were 2013. Speaking as the given away by Fr. (Dr.) Joseph Cherian, Rev. Fr. chief guest Dr. Kadambari Thomas and Fr. Christudoss. Bhagat, IAS, SDO (C) Dimapur said that she was - Brothers from Salesian College honoured to celebrate the day with the Management, Staff and Students of Assisi Higher Secondary School, INAUGURATION OF GOLDEN JUBILEE Dimapur. Rev Sr. Milly Fernandes, Provincial Superior of Ursuline Franciscan Sisters of Northeast gave The Yearlong celebration of away the prizes to the children who excelled in the Golden Jubilee of Little various competitions held earlier. Flower School, Kohima was - Sr. Benny Fernandes kick started on 1st Oct. 2013 with the blessing by His Lordship, Bishop James and SABS VESTITION Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire, Novices Angela Magh, Parliamentary Secretary for Justice & Law, Land Francy Tigga, Lucina Rabha, Revenue, Labour & Employment. Mr. Kire inaugurated Genevieive Myamiai made the celebration. During the speech, Kire said, ‘to live their religious profession and is to change and not to change is stagnant and Vestition on 28th September death.’ He further encouraged the girls to excel in their academic performances. 2013 at provincial House, Dimapur. Most Rev. John - Correspondent Thomas Kattrukudiyil, Bishop of Itanagar officiated

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123456783 MEMORIES OF A MISSION DAY PILGRIM WALK...

Hesitant for a few days to write these! ‘May sound kitchen and the little rooms. A good sleep and good boastful,’ I thought! ‘Necessary’ I thought days later, dreams for a few! The children were up to wake the just to thank and to acknowledge! So are these sun and the elders, “the prayerful gathering and a words to share with you, the memories of our two- cup of tea was a good omen for the day. “Let’s hurry day pilgrimage walk from Shamator to Kiphire, the up,” was the call indicating the strong sun that distance of 63 kms. Do you believe in numbers? At awaited all. Soon the kids moved and the others fol- least in Biblical numbers? Take it this time at least. lowed. Phelungre, one of the older Catholic com- The pilgrim group was of 72 members and the date munities of the region, was the destination, just in of journey was 18th Oct., the day of St. Luke, the sight but road too long the road. The tired legs took Evangelist and concluded on Mission Sunday. Call more time than usual. The distance of a little more it coincidence! I call it ‘a mission design.’ Nine-year than 10kms, took 2+ hrs. There was love and cheer old boy, the youngest and 65-yr old, the oldest; the when the awaiting elders and others met us. Smiles group had its good time across the hills and val- and Cheers, pats and shakes, cups and biscuits, leys. Truly inspirational to have been led by the teen- nothing short of a family gathering. There was some- agers from the front! The first day of the walk, start- thing striking in all that happened and this is some- ing at 7.15 am, took us across 5 villages – Shamator thing worth mentioning. The meal was ready for the village, Wapher, Lasokiur, tired walkers, so too the Sikiur & Anatongre - had a church for the Mass. The call short time in each to talk, was made to choose what be to pray and to get them a first. The kids were sponta- word of love. The message neous to choose the Mass of the day was printed in before the meal. May be very various dialects to make it ordinary! But for the situa- appeal to them in their own tion and the way it was done, way. People, strangers at it was an inspiration. The first sight and soon friends, celebration in the church was while admiring the length of a rare blessing. A packed walk, also curiously took church! Mr. Joseph, one of note of the intention. While the first Catholic and com- some took it as a surprise, panion of the first mission- many found it an inspira- aries, was greeted by the tion. “God, bless this community,” the children group and it was a grace to have been prayed over prayed as they recited rosary and walking into by him. “A gentle way of handing over the mission- Anatongre, a village that resisted the Catholic baton,” I thought to myself as he exhorted the young Church for years and even pulled down the half-done generation to get close to Jesus. Another few hours church a few years back, was lit bright with the pres- down the hill and then up the mountain to the grace- ence of the group. They counted all a great bless- ful parish campus of St. Peter, Kiphire. ‘It is done,” ing and matching the tribal thoughts the arrival of that was clear for all. ‘Well done,’ all had a pat on the group was timely marked by a gentle shower themselves before being refreshed with the best of from above. The close of the day had everyone at treat. Rosary and Holy Mass followed the great mo- the fire in the big kitchen, narrating to themselves ment of being accompanied to the families in group the ten hours that passed by, showing the blisters for the night’s rest. All had their way. Morning on the foot, the scratches on the hand, the dirt on brought everyone to the church. All who heard of the clothes…., all to the laughter, but sigh of doubt the group, had a ‘great word.’ Testimony by the little with the thought of continuing the walk on the next children of their faith experience, prayerful liturgy, day. The friendly villagers, young and old, were all blissful singing, ….many were the beauty of the day. there finding time to chat and to assist everyone to “Show of strength! Some might think! Never, it was refresh. The Holy Eucharistic celebration and the test of faith. An act of penance for ourselves and sharing of a sumptuous meal took everyone to rest, all those who are part of us, a way to get to new crawling and crushing in the little space around the people, to get to you who are our brothers and

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12345674 NEWS - Diocese sisters,” explained, Rev. Fr. Kokto, Asst. Priest of 30 YEARS OF CAN Shamator. “We are inspired, challenged and taught,” said Mdm. Toshila from Kiphire, while sharing the impressions of the occasion. We made it! Many called it great! Quite moments turned my mind to other side of the coin. Tough were some measure of road, I thought. Then, how do the people make it on a daily basis for their livelihood? A lot of the road was treaded on by many poor farmers for their cul- tivation and I walked just once in a life time! “God bless the land, the people and all of us who are trying to walk anew.” Humbly we prayed as often as The Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) cel- we could. “Individuals are destroyed, families are ebrated its 30 years under the theme ‘Laity in Ser- disturbed and societies are misled. We need a new vice’ from 27th to 29th September, 2013, at Don light, new leaders, new roads…….,” many were our Bosco Higher Secondary School, Kohima auditorium. supplications to the Lord of life. Join us further, as Mr. Y. Patton, Minister of Forest, was the chief con- you did until date. We desire to walk the road of life ferrer and Mr. Eugene Consalves, All India Catholic with HIM who has chosen us and to walk HIS way to Union (AICU) was the guest of honor. On the final lead others to HIM. Thanks to ALLLLLL. day a solemn Eucharistic Celebration was officiated Rev. Fr. Francis Yimso Cheerangal by Bishop James Thoppil. Bishop in his homily said that the church is built by the people of God. This is our dignity and all of us are called to be saints. As SR. TRESA MANDAPAM PASSED AWAY Jesus challenged every believer to be the light and Sr. Tresa Mandpapam SABS passed salt of the earth, Bishop wished every laity to pre- away on October 10, 2013, 2:45 pm serve the sanctity and live with honesty. at Deva Matha Hospital The delegates included priests, nuns, men and Koothattukulam, Kerala, after women from different parishes and centres of prolonged illness. She had been Kohima Diocese. There was releasing of publica- working in North-East for the past tion and blessing of new office bearers of CAN by 41 years. She came to Nagaland in His Lordship. 1972 and worked in Tuensang, Tobu, The newly elected office bearers of Catholic Asso- Jakhama and Kiphire in different capacities ciation of Nagaland (CAN) include, Elias T. (Presi- especially as Superior and Headmistress. Besides, dent), Intsangju (V. President), Johnny Humtsoe Sr. Tresa also worked in different centres of Manipur (V.President), Johny Ruangmei (Sec. General), and Assam. Her funeral service was held at St. Roukuoneinuo Marina (Sec.), Shingato (Sec.) Ashepu Francis Assisi Church Cemetery, at Marangattupilly, James (Treasurer). The Advisory Committee include, Kerala on Friday, October 11. Nosazol Charles, Jacob Konyak, Zumchilo Patton, - Correspondent Peter Swu, Abraham Zeliang, Khrotso John Koza, Shurato Peter, Isaac Litsase, R.Rocus Chasie, Sebastian Humtsoe, Thomas Kez, V. Lucas Meyase , LOTUSPAL PASSED AWAY Seili Mathew, Ruokuoheu Rosaline, Augustine M. Miss Lotuspal Passed away on 25th Yanthan. October, 2013. She was in ‘Jesus - Correspondent Youth’ for more than 5 years till her death. She was a Student of B.Com 2nd year at St. Joseph’s College Jakhama. “Be who you are and say what you The family members extend their gratitude to fathers, sisters, JY feel, because those who mind don’t members and to all people who stood matter, and those who matter don’t and supported during the demise of mind.” their daughter. - Correspondent ¯ Bernard M. Baruch

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1234567 NEWS - Diocese ADVENT: SEASON OF PREPARATION FOR CHRISTMAS (Fr. Loyola Antony) Advent (Latin adventus, “coming”), in the Christian During this we cannot but hear the clarion call of ecclesiastical calendar, is a season observed in John the Baptist, “Prepare the way of the Lord.” preparation for Christmas. About 600 AD, Pope This is the message of Advent. It is a time of Gregory I decreed that the season should start on preparation, a time to prepare the way of the Lord the fourth Sunday before Christmas. For us Catholics, even as we await the Lord. There is always a saying the new Liturgical Year commences with the first “Who is waiting for whom?” Sunday of Advent. In this new liturgical year, the Church not only wishes to indicate the beginning of We are certainly, on a very real level, waiting for a period, but the beginning of a renewed the Lord at Christmas, but really it’s God who waits commitment to the faith by all those who follow for us the way that we prepare in our lives. We look Christ, the Lord. This time of prayer and path of forward to accepting God in our lives, so Advent is penance that is so powerful, rich and intense a time of preparation, to prepare our souls, our endeavors to give us a renewed impetus to truly hearts and our lives to receive Christ at Christmas. welcome the message of the One who was incarnated for us. To wait for the Lord who comes, Advent is a time to ask ourselves In fact, the entire Liturgy of the means to wait and to watch so what are the crooked ways in our Advent Season will spur us to an that the Word of Love enters in- lives. Each of us might ask: What awakening in our Christian life side us and focuses us every day are the crooked ways on which I and will put us in a ‘vigilant’ of our lives. sometimes get lost, or I take a disposition, to wait for Our Lord detour? What are the crooked Jesus who is coming: ways that need to be made straight in my life? What are those mountains that are blocking my spiritual ‘Awaken! Remember that God comes! Not yesterday, path? What are the obstacles to finding Christ more not tomorrow, but today, now! The one true God, “the fully in my life? What are the obstacles to me God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob”, is not a God who leading a more faith-filled life, a more trusting life? is there in Heaven, unconcerned with us and our history, but he is the-God-who-comes.’ (Pope As Blessed John Henry Newman reminded us in a Benedict XVI, Celebration of First Vespers of Advent, homily for the Advent Season: “Advent is a time of Vatican Basilica, December 2006) waiting, it is a time of joy because the coming of Christ is not only a gift of grace and salvation but it The Season of Advent is therefore a season of vigilant is also a time of commitment because it motivates waiting, that prepares us to welcome the mystery of us to live the present as a time of responsibility the Word Incarnate, who will give the ‘Light’ to the and vigilance. This ‘vigilance’ means the necessity, womb of the Virgin Mary, but essentially this time the urgency of an industrious, living ‘wait’. To make prepares us not only to welcome this great event all this happen, then we need to wake up, as we but to incarnate it in our lives. We could say that the are warned by the apostle to the Gentiles, in his true light enters the world through the immaculate letter to the Romans: “Besides this you know what womb of Mary but it does not stay there. On the hour it is, how it is full time now for you to wake contrary, this light flows out into our dark, obscure, from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than sinful lives to illumine them, so that we can become when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11). the light that illumine the world. For this reason, let us live this time of waiting not only to celebrate a We must start our journey to ascend to the historical memory but to repeat this memory in our mountain of the Lord, to be illumined by His Words lives and in the service of others. To wait for the of peace and to allow Him to indicate the path to Lord who comes, means to wait and to watch so that tread. (cf. Is. 2:1-5). Moreover, we must change our the Word of Love enters inside us and focuses us conduct abandoning the works of darkness and put every day of our lives. on the ‘armor of light’ and so seek only to do God’s work and to abandon the deeds of the flesh. (cf. Rom. 13:12-14).

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1234567 12345676 1234567 NEWS - Diocese INPUT SESSION FOR DIOCESAN PASTORAL appreciated Fr. James Sangtam, Sisters and Teachers PLAN for organizing the event beautifully and congratulated everyone for their active participation. Rev. Fr. Faustine Lobo, - Correpondent the National Director of Pontifical Mission KUDOS TO JEIVITHO AUGUSTINE NYUWI Societies in India, from Bangalore, Jievitho Augustine Nyuwi of St. Xavier’s Parish, animated the Meluri, was awarded the 17th National Youth Diocesan Pastoral Award at a glittering ceremony on October 11th Plan, on 3rd and 4th at the recently concluded 9th National Youth October, 2013 at Mt. Tabor. 76 laity, sisters and Convention at Jalandhar, Punjab for his priests participated and benefited from the outstanding work for the youth ministry in the programme. The highlights of the program include Kohima diocese (Nagaland state) and his reports and action plans from each region. leadership at the diocese, - Correspondent tribe and parish level. The award is given FORMATORS SEMINAR AT GUWAHATI annually for excellence in youth ministry by Catholic The formators seminar Bishops Conference of was held at Social Forum, India (CBCI) Commission in Guwahati from 18- for Youth and Youth Active 20th October, 2013. It was Foundation of the Indian organized by the Chairman Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM). and Secretary of the North The award was handed over by Archbishop, Leo Eastern Regional Commis- Cornelio of Bhopal and Chairman of CBCI sion for Vocations, Semi- Commission for Youth, Bishop Franco Mulakkal naries, Clergy and Reli- of Jalandhar, Bishop Jacob Mar Barnabas OIC, gious, Most Rev. Michael Akasius Toppo, and Rev. Fr. Jose Chirackal respec- and Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto of Delhi. tively. Rev. Fr. Joe Mannath SDB was the resource Jievitho Nyuwi is currently president of Pochury person. 61 participants benefited from the Catholic Youth Association and Central Executive programme. Committee member of Nagaland Catholic Youth - Correspondent movement (NCYM). He was the vice-president of NCYM 2009-11. In this capacity, he participated in the National LITERARY COMPETITIONS AT LOZAPHUHU Youth Convention (2010) at Shillong, Meghalaya. He helped organize the 6th Nagaland Youth St. Mary’s School, Lozaphuhu, conducted two-day Convention at Meluri in January 2011. literary competitions from 08th-09th October 2013. The highlights of the competitions included; He has organized several camps and Extempore, Choreography, Group song, Folk Tune, conventions for the youth of his tribe and even Duet, Solo, Dance, Bible recitation and Fashion show. at diocese level. He also attended World Youth Rev. Fr. Antony R. Dukru, the Parish Priest, spoke on Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. the significance of the event. In his speech he cited - Correspondent the example of the little girl of LKG for her boldness in participating in it without fear and encouraged others to imitate her quality and to participate in the competition whether or not one wins or loses. “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from ‘Never shy away from the available opportunities God, and whoever loves has been born of God and but make use of the talents God has given to you,’ knows God. Anyone who does not love does not he added. He also expressed his gratitude to the know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8 Judges for sparing their precious time and

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1234567 12345677 1234567 NEWS - Diocese DIOCESE OF KOHIMA CELEBRATES THE CLOSING OF THE YEAR OF FAITH IN COMMUNION WITH CATHOLICS WORLDWIDE

The Diocese of Therefore one must be serious about studying our Kohima, joined the faith, by reading the Word of God daily, either Catholics all over individually or in our families; reading catholic the world, in literature, attending seminars and retreats, etc. If celebrating the one is not rooted in knowledge one will be tossed closing of the Year about with every wind doctrines. th of Faith on the 24 faith, he said, is not merely and intellectual November 2013. In knowledge. It must animate and direct our lives. The Nagaland the main celebration was life of a committed Catholic is different from the presided over by rest. Concretely speaking, he will be honest, hard Most Rev. Dr. James working, sincere, service minded, respectful, content Thoppil, Bishop of the Diocese of Kohima, who with what he has, moderate, happy. Such a person presided over the Eucharistic celebration held at cannot, but be witness to Jesus in the world and a challenge to others. This is what we call living our Mary Help of Christian Cathedral, Kohima. faith. Today, more than ever, the Church needs, such It may be mentioned that the Year of Faith was called witnesses, the world need such witness, our country by Pope Benedict XVI in October of 2012 and needs such witness, our state and society needs sustained by Pope Francis to commemorate the 50th such witness. Let us make a difference, he exhorted Anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican the faithful gathered for the Eucharistic celebration. Council, the 20th Anniversary of the promulgation of The different parishes of the diocese had meaningful the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the begining of the Synod of Bishops on The celebrations on the concluding day of ‘The Year of Evangelization. Faith” During the opening of the year of Faith, Holy Father The ending of ‘The Year of Faith’ was held at Vatican Pope Benedict XVI had released an Apostolic letter, square in a significant way, with Holy Father Pope Porta Fidei, in which has stated that the ‘Year of Francis, presiding over the Holy Mass on Sunday 24 Faith’ as an opportunity for Catholics to experience November. It was marked by three signs intended to a conversion — to turn back to Jesus and enter into highlight the importance of the moment: the a deeper relationship with him. The “door of faith” exposition of the relics of St. Peter, the delivery by is opened at one’s baptism, but during this year Pope Francis of his new Apostolic Exhortation Catholics have been called to open it again, walk “Evangelii gaudium”, and a gesture of charity through it and rediscover and renew their towards the Philippine population. During the Eucharist, a collection was also carried out as a relationship with Christ and his Church. contribution by the Year of Faith pilgrims to those The year has been meaningfully and prayerfully affected by the catastrophic typhoon in the observed by more than one billion Catholics across Philippines. the world, by committing themselves to knowing the - Fr. Sojan Xavier faith, living the faith and sharing it. Diocese of Kohima has honoured this call of the Holy Father to prayerful reflections through various programmes Catechists Remembered and observances at the diocesan as well as in the parish level. The Diocese of Kohima, in a special way Bishop James in his homily, during the concluding remembered and acknowledged the yeoman service Mass said that this ‘Year of Faith’ has been an rendered by the Catechists, in different catholic inspiring opportunity for us all to reflect on faith, communities spread far and wide in the diocese. and how necessary it is for every moment of our lives – not just one hour on Sunday. To live and share one’s faith, one must first of all know one’s faith. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” ¯ Mahatma Gandhi

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1234567 12345678 1234567 NEWS - Diocese SEMINAR FOR CATHOLIC WOMEN AT PHEK society. Mr. Victor Kevilhouthie Yhome, PFP Convener, Kohima district exhorted the youth to have A one day seminar was conducted at St. John Bosco always self-introspection and reduce the luggage Church, Phek Town for the Catholic Women of St. of desires to live a happy and contented life. Mary’s Parish, Lozaphuhu on 5th October, 2013 with Rev. Fr. James Sangtam and Rev. Sr. Jacinta as the - Correspondent resource persons. There were 65 women who participated in the Seminar. The topics for the seminar were “Church and Women Ministry and MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE Women Morality”. The resource persons shared how women play a very important role even during the • Mrs Modesta Nkholo Kithan, the mother of life of Jesus’ ministry. Rev. Fr. James Sangtam said, Sr. Mary Kithan FMA passed away on 20th none of the Apostles were women but St. Luke September 2013. Gospel chapter 12:2-3 clearly mentioned that Mary • Mr. Thomas Charalel (87), uncle of Bishop Magdalene, Susanna and many others supported James Thoppil passed away on 25th of Jesus and his apostles in their ministry. From these September 2013. references we learn that Jesus in no way consider • Ms Miki, elder sister of Sr. Ivy (LFS former women inferior to men. Thus the good works of Superior) passed away on 5th October, 2013 women were always mentioned in the Scripture. • Sr. Tresa Mandapatil SABS (Previous Superior While speaking on Women and Morality, Sr. Jacinta of Kiphire) passed away on 10th of October, said that women have a greater role to play in the 2013 Church. She also quoted the exemplary mothers of • Sr. Eugine M.UFS (Former Headmistress of St. John Bosco and St. Augustine whose saintly lives Assisi Evening School) passed away on 18th had inspired their sons to be great saints in the October, 2013 Catholic Church. The Holy Eucharistic was presided • Ms Mariachy Azhakulathil, aunt (Mother’s over by Rev. Fr. Antony R. Dukru the Parish Priest. eldest Sister) of Fr. James KC passed away on Earlier, a word of welcome was proposed by 24th October, 2013 Ms Leasouse Lydia and a word of gratitude was • Mr. Amrit Toppo (46) eldest brother of Sr. proposed by Ms Asu Lucy. Bimla MMS (Chumukedima) died of Massive heart attack on 31st October, 2013. - Ms Emmy Nukhu, Secretary • Mr. Chacko Father of Fr. K.C. James (Carmel 4th Mile) passed away on 9th November, 2013. QUALITY YOUTH FOR A PROGRESSIVE • Mr. Thomas (88) Father of Sr. Tresa K. SABS SOCIETY (Kiphire) died of heart attack on 11th November, 2013. A joint seminar was • Mr. Francis (26) Brother of Bro. Dominic organized by Peace Kwietranging (First Year Theology, Orien’s, Channel and Red Shillong) passed away on 11th November, Ribbon Club of St. 2013. Joseph’s College, • Mrs Pezalhoukhonuo Angela (46) mother of Jakhama on 4th Bro. Mhasiekholie Martin (Longsa) passed November 2013, at away on 6th November, 2013. the College Auditorium under the theme “Quality Youth for a Progressive Society”. 45 active Club members participated in the programme. Mr. “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to Dominic Yazoke, the joint director, Information and man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted Public Relations Government of Nagaland beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will challenged the youths to inculcate virtues of humility, obedience, honesty and kindness as these also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to are indispensable ingredients for a progressive endure it”. - 1 Corinthians 10:13

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23rd GENERAL SESSION OF CYA LOZAPHUHU SILVER JUBILEE AT ST. JOSEPH’S SCHOOL, HELD LONGLENG The Silver Jubilee of St. Joseph School, Longleng was celebrated on 31st October, 2013. Shri. S. Pangnyu Phom the hon’ble Minister, Industries & Commerce and Chairman, NIDC Ltd., Govt. of Nagaland graced the occasion. The Lozaphuhu Catholic Youth Association held The minister said “Jubilee celebration was not only its 23rd General Session from 11th to 13th Oc- a time for rejoicing but also a time to recall the past tober 2013 with the theme, “Take delight in the and to rededicate for a brighter and healthy society”. Lord and He will give you the desire of your The chief Guest inaugurated the school entrance heart”(Ps.37:4).The main speakers of the Gen- gate and unveiled the Jubilee monolith, while Rev. eral Session were Mr. Nuvesayi Edward, Head- Fr. Antonyswamy, the former Parish Priest blessed master, Royal Foundation School, Phek and Rev. it. Mr. Libanthung Lotha, the DC of Longleng Fr. James Sangtam, the Associate Priest. inuagurated the newly constructed block of the school and Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Vicar General Mr. Nuvesayi Edward spoke on the theme, “Take of Kohima Diocese blessed it. delight in the Lord and He will give you the desire - Correspondent of your heart.” While Rev. Fr. James Sangtam spoke on “Youth in the Ministry of God”. Citing SCIENCE WORKSHOP AT DBS, LAZAMI the beautiful parable of “The Vine and the branches” (Jn.15: 1-8) Fr. James encouraged the Lazami Students Youth to be always part of the Church and to be Union (LSU) in col- active evangelizers of Christ and His Kingdom. laboration with Indig- During the Holy Eucharistic presided over by Rev. enous Cultural Society Fr. Antony Rozu Dukru, the Parish Priest, exhorted Nagaland under the the Youth to re-dedicate themselves and work guidance of its direc- together for realising the objectives of the tor, Dr. Hesheto Y. association. As part of the event Youth organized Chishi conducted a science workshop for Class 8, 9 various competitions such as Solo, Duet, Quartet, and 10 students on 1st November,2013 at Don Bosco Folk Song, Group Folk song, Group Song, Bible School, Lazami. Quiz, Volley Ball, and Tug of war. Dr. D. Dewal and Dr. Sharad Godse from Pune Mr. Kukhrusheyi Savio, was the Special Guest at (Maharashtra) were the resource persons. 160 stu- the Valedictory function held after the Mass. dents from DBS Lazami and GMS Lazami participated During the program, the election commission in the said programme. declared the New Jubilee Office-bearers. The - Correspondent outgoing President Mr. Khusuzo Philip congratulated Mr. Huveto Paul the newly elected President and his Team (2014-2015). He also “Gratitude is something of which none of expressed his gratitude to the Association for us can give too much. For on the smiles, their full co-operation during their tenure. He the thanks we give, our little gestures of wished them to strive forward with the new appreciation, our neighbors build their vision and mission. There were altogether 76 philosophy of life.” Youth attended the 23rd General Session-2013. - Secretary, CYA, Lozaphuhu ~ A. J. Cronin

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1234567 123456710 1234567 News - Diocese NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF VOCATION PRIESTLY ORDINATION PROMOTERS, NAGPUR The Second National Conference of Voca- tion Promoters was held at Pallontine Ani- mation Centre, Pallotti Nagar, Nagpur from 12th to 15th Novem- ber, 2013. The main focus of the conference was to sharpen the ministry of vocation promotion in India today; to create a network for this all important ecclesial task Dn., Emmanuel Pvuthungo Patton, throughout the country, with a missionary thrust. Rev. St. Mary’s Parish, Lakhuti. Frs. Paul Parathazham and Amirthraj OP animated the various sessions. Rev. Frs. Patrick Neikhalo and Thomas Toretkiu from the Diocese participated in Motto: Here I am, Lord! Send me! (Is. 6:8) it. There were a total of 110 participants. - Correspondent He will be ordained by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, NagalandNagaland, on NEW CHURCH BLESSED AT ANATONGRE Saturday 28th December, 2013 at 10.30am, at St. John’s Church, Akuk Village, Wokha. A new church (St. Mary’s Church),at Sharing extends its heartiest congratulations and Anatongre prayerful wishes. village was blessed on 26th YOUTH LEAVE FOR CULTURAL EXCHANGE November, 2013 PROGRAM by His Lordship 26 Youth from the diocese left for Jesus Youth Cul- Most Rev . Dr. James Thoppil and was inaugurated tural Exchange program to be held in Kerala from by Mr. John Tsulise, ADC, Aboi . Bishop appreciated 6th to 26th December. JY national office organises all those who toiled and had undergone hardship in the program every year in which youth from all parts bringing the faith into the village of Anatongre. He for the country come together. The high light of the further told the community, “We are here not to give program is consisted of a weeklong retreat, stay in but to preach the gospel”. In his homily he said, “God families in various zones for a ten day exposure and is one and there is no many Gods.” Mr. Elias T Lotha, final formation together to President, Catholic Association of Nagaland, called sharpen their vision for the upon the Catholic community of Anatongre not to mission. The program is wait to be served but to serve. Rev Fr Benny Varghese aimed at bringing mission Parish Priest St Peter Church Kiphire welcomed the spirit to both young partici- gathering and shared the history of Catholic faith at pants and families in Anatongre. He also said, “People were reluctant to embrace Catholic faith in Anatongre earlier but with Kerala. much struggle the Church has been formed.” Before the participants left - Correspondent for Kerala, a daylong ori- entation program was organised at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima on 3rd December. The program included, Praise and worship, sessions on “I can do all things through Christ who Christian faith, exhortation from Most Rev. Dr. James strengthens me.” - Philippians 4:13 Thoppil and adoration. - Miss Celine, JY Co-ordinator, Nagaland 1234567

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123456711 News - Diocese SHAMATOR GETS CLOSER TO THE BLESSED MOTHER Shamator, a land lying in the eastern border of India, mission has been the restoration of the family. The is a unique scenic beauty. The land is crawling into question arises, “where can we have a family development from the yester years of unfortunate without the mother?” Many things are done and experiences. Educational facility is still very new. many have grown. Time has shown us that the The past ten years of Catholic mission have made a presence of the heavenly mother builds up the family deep impact here. The catholic community, initiated as much as the earthly mother does, people give in 2002 with 85 members, is now a group of over testimony to it. 700 stable believers. The beauty is the impact of 31st Oct 2013. A day to treasure! It was very faith in daily life. What makes the difference? What special this year too. My childhood memories are of more could be different? the illuminated facades of the churches and the It is the bunch of teenage-missionaries that traditional rosary celebration in a different part of make the day, their impressive and expressive faith! the world. Today it is not only memory but a living The past month of October, the month of Rosary, experience in our own mission land. This time, it has been a time of growth and nourishment. Nothing was a day of adoration, chain rosary, procession and seemed short of a ‘faith-celebration’ when we see Holy Mass. A group of ten began the prayer at 6.00 a group of at least 60, gather in the evening for the am around the Altar with Eucharistic exposition and Holy Mass and then make their way to the different Mother Mary beside it. Hours passed…people took families for the Rosary. We enjoyed the ‘October turn… walked in to pray a rosary… It was lovely to Luxury’. see some children running into the church when the Another on-going practice is the Rosary school bell rang for a short break….and in the prayed by the school students in the morning hours. evening a few hundred walked in procession across A practice for the past 16 months that began with a the town reciting the rosary and singing hymns, handful of Catholic students! Today a mixture of over praying for a renewal with candles in the hand. Holy 100 children from all groups barring religious Mass followed celebrative singing competition and differences; gather in the church before they get to Marian Quiz that brought together young and old. the class. It is not just a recitation, but an involved, The clock rang 09.30 pm, wishing everyone a good devoted and group prayer, led and organized by the homeward walk in the cold night. little kids. A sight of a mother with her kids! Almost The question still pokes! What makes the half the group makes it to the Holy Mass in the difference from the past? One time it was all about evening. With many activities across the day, earlier against Mother Mary and now it is a generation that many spoke of lack of time, but today they speak of acclaims the heavenly mother. I believe this will play better growth thinking of doing many things. the ‘pillar role’ to our much-hoped renewal of family. Outcome is evident, especially the improvement in Our families will have a mother. Our church will be their life as a student. nurtured, I pray. It is not that the opposition is any Looking at what has been happening in this less but we see the growing strength of the believers. small and humble land of the Lord, I strongly believe Intercede for us when you kneel in prayer……. the Children’s effort has been the turning point. - Fr. Francis Yimso Reason compliments my faith. Let me remind you that the same land has been filled with the stories against ‘Mother Mary,’ for decades. The anti- “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; catholic propaganda for years, promoted by the where there is hatred, let me sow love; where ‘Baptist Missionaries,’ have made it impossible for there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; the ordinary people to think anything good about Catholic Church, especially in religious matters. The where there is despair, hope; where there is result is the ‘unconscious resistance of the people darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.” towards the Catholic Church and specially anything -St. Francis of Assisi on Mother Mary.’ Was it something like throwing away the “Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they baby with the bath-water? I guess, they did it, though are restless until they rest in you.” some without knowing. One of the focal points our -St. Augustine of Hippo

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1234567 123456712 1234567 News - Diocese WORLD ORPHANS’ DAY OBSERVED narrated their life experiences in their seminary days while the brothers and Hostel Girls entertained the gathering. - Correspondent FOUNDATION LAID AT LONGSA FOR NEW SCHOOL The School building foundation was laid at Longsa by Bishop James on 2nd Decem- The World Orphans’ Day’s was observed on 11th ber, 2013. His Lordship ap- November, 2013 at Town Baptish Church in Dimapur. preciated and thanked Fr. 720 children from 19 orphanages from Nagaland Mathew Rhamben for all the came together. Different competitions such as paint- troubles taken in caring for the faithful. The foun- ings and dance etc were conduction on the occa- dation stone was laid in the presence of fathers and sion. Children from Khuzama Eden Garden gave the elders in a significant manner. welcome song. The programme was aimed at ex- - Corrrespondent pressing love for the orphan children. - Correspondent NAGALAND JY TEAM RECONSTITUTED CONFIRMATION AT KIUSAM The reconstitution of the service team of Nagaland Bishop James Thoppil was held from 25-27 Octo- during his pastoral ber 2013. For which the visit to the community Jesus Youth asst. national of Kiusam, under coordinator, Immanuel Jo- St. Peter’s Parish, seph along with the spiri- Kiphire, administered tual director of the JY National Team, Fr. Cherian were the sacrament of Con- present. The official election procedure concluded firmation to 41 people and first Holy Communion to on Sunday and the new service team was selected: 8 people on 27th November, 2013. Cordinator- Celine Pamei, Sylvester Khrieketoulie - Correspondent (Asst. Coordinator), Mhabeni Yanthan, Ruguonuo Ruth Vizo, Patricia Pamei, Eloni Christina, Issac Ex- MSFS SEMINARY, MEDZIPHEMA TURNS officio - Roseline Richa and Campus Rep. Mr. SILVER Stephen. Fr. Sojan will be the Spiritual Director and Sr. Annie CMC would serve as the Sister Animator. St. Francis De Sales - Mhabeni Yanthan (MSFS) Seminary, Medziphema ‘YEAR OF FAITH’ AT LOTHA REGION celebrated its Silver An Inter-School competition Jubilee on 30th was held at Montfort School November, 2013. At Baghty on 14th Sept. 2013, with the start of the Holy the theme ‘Faith’ to mark the Eucharist Fr. Augustine, Rector of the Seminary, Year of Faith. There were 24 welcomed all to the Celebration. Bishop James Students from Six centres of the Thoppil officiated the Holy Eucharist and His grace Region took part in the Bible Declamation Competi- John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati and many tion as well as the Solo Competition. The winners other priests concelebrated with him. were awarded in cash and kind. The presence of His Grace in his homily exhorted that God is free to the students from Montfort School Baghty as well do whom he chooses and many had been brought as the delegates from the region made the up from this institution with the values inculcated programme meaningful. Rev. Bro. A.C Sebastian and in them and we pray to fulfill God’s dream through Rev.Fr.David Tithong co-ordinated the programme.

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1234567 123456713 1234567 News - Diocese / Regional RENOVATED SACRED HEART CONVENT the Gangte Christian BLESSED Gospel Centenary Committee, Manipur The renovated Sacred Heart said, “The achieve- Convent at Chizami was ment is significant blessed by Bishop James not only for the Thoppil on 25th November, Gangte community, 2013. Sr. Savitha UFC the but also for the superior of the convent whole state of expressed her gratitude to His Lordship, Frs. George Manipur.” He added that it is a moment of joy and Punnolil, Jose Sebastian, Siby who were instrumental happiness for the community “as the record has in the completion of the renovation of the convent. been achieved on the soil of Manipur.” On the same day Bishop also inaugurated the newly black top road of the campus. Determined to set a record, 7047 participants took - Correspondent part in the mass bible reading as part of the Gangte Gospel Centenary celebration on December 16, 2012 at Chiengkonpang in MONTH OF HOLY ROSARY AND YEAR OF Churachandpur district of Manipur. Braving the FAITH CONCLUDED IN RAZEBA PARISH cold wintry breeze, participants read the entire book of Romans from Chapter 01-16, starting at Month of the Holy Rosary 1:27pm. The reading concluded at 2:53pm, taking and Year of Faith was a duration of 1.27 hours. concluded at Razeba The reading was witnessed by Maniram Sharma, Parish with a meaningful Additional Deputy Commissioner of celebration on 31st Churachandpur and L Mangkhogin Haokip, October. On the evening Superintendent of Police for Churachandpur. A of the day, carrying the statue of the Mother Mary, press note informed that it was organized with the congregation went in procession from the village the aim to involve all participants who took part to the grotto at the priest’s residence, reciting the in the centenary celebration. “The main aim of Holy Rosary. After which the whole congregation the mass Bible Reading was to spread the Gospel gathered together for the Solemn Eucharistic throughout the Seven Seas,” Rev K Mawia said. - Correspondent celebration, presided over by Fr. Sojan Xavier. The program ended with a beautiful cultural program prepared by the Junior CYA of the Parish. Earlier, Fr. REPEATED AT TACKS ON CHRISTIANS IN Papusamy, the parish priest, briefed about the KARNATAKA importance of the day and extended warm welcome In South Western Indian state of Karnataka has been to everyone. The program concluded with a the site of 27 attacks on Christians since July, community meal. according to an Asia News report. Sajan George, - Sr. Reena, CMC president of the Global Council of Indian Christians GANGTE TRIBE SETS WORLD RECORD IN (GCIC), characterized Hindu nationalist attacks on BIBLE READING Christians in Karnataka as “brutal and relentless.” The Fides news agency reported that there have The Gangte tribe in Manipur has set the world been recent attacks on Christians in three other record for the largest mass bible reading. This was Indian states as well. approved by record bodies such as the Limca Book - UCAN of Records, Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records. Gangte leaders informed that the pro- “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the cess is on to enter in the Guinness Book of Record. faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love Addressing media persons at the Manipur Press with those who love him and keep his Club on Friday, an elated L S Gangte, Chairman of commandments, to a thousand generations”. - Deuteronomy 7:9

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1234567814 News - Catholic World NO LAUGHING MATTER: HOW A TOP POPE FRANCIS EMBRACES MAN WITH COMEDY WRITER BECAME A CATHOLIC TUMOROUS DISEASE Tom Leopold is a very funny guy. He’s also a At the end of the Nov. 6 Catholic. He has been funny longer than he has been general audience in St. Peter’s a Catholic. But being a Catholic doesn’t stop him Square, Pope Francis drew from being funny. “I can’t go more than two lines attention by warmly without getting a laugh,” Leopold told Catholic News embracing a man who suffers Service in a telephone interview from New York. from a rare disease causing Leopold has spent the better part of his adult neuronal tumors all over his life writing sitcoms, including episodes of “Cheers,” body. The man was identified as suffering from “Seinfeld” and “Will and Grace.” He recently came neurofibromatosis, which causes great pain and back from England, where he did what he called can result in impaired vision, learning some “punching up” of a batch of scripts for new impairnment, and even cancer, according to non- episodes of “The Muppet Show.” He has written for profit research group Mayo Clinic. Treatment of such diverse comic talents as Bob Hope and Chevy the condition is very complicated. People with this Chase, and written with some of the most inventive disease – which is genetic and not contagious – minds in comedy, including Christopher Guest and often face discrimination because of their Harry Shearer. But Leopold joined the Catholic church appearance. As he carried out his typical greeting only last year. It took a family crisis to set him on a of pilgrims at the conclusion of the general path toward Catholicism. audience, Pope Francis paused for several minutes “My daughter had this very serious, life- to receive the sick man in his arms. Moments later, threatening eating disorder,” Leopold said. She was he took the man’s face in his hands, kissed in treatment in Arizona, where the hospital would him, and gave him a blessing. The gesture is the not release her until Christmas Day. On Christmas latest in a series of actions by the Holy Father Eve, he recalled that he and his wife went to bed. that have drawn attention for their warmth and “We’re trying not to let the other one know how sad affection towards the marginalized in society. we were,” he said. But for Leopold, “that’s the first Previously, the Pope made headlines by visiting time I prayed.” However, since he had, by his own imprisoned youth, responding to letters with count, “one day of religious training” in his life, he personal phone calls, and inviting the local said he prayed “like they prayed on (the old TV homeless to dine at St. Peter’s Square. western) ‘Wagon Train’: ‘Lord, I’m not a prayin’ man, - Vatican City but if you’ll just see us through Comanche territory.’ Early Christmas morning outside his hotel, Leopold POPE: SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION IS NOT said he encountered “this 75-year-old ex-Marine (who) pulls up on this homemade motorcycle with A ‘TORTURE CHAMBER’ deer antlers for handlebars. He tells me his name is During his daily Mass Pope Francis centered his Shepherd. He introduces his wife to me and tells homily on the Sacrament of Reconciliation, stressing me that she brought him to Jesus at 33 — and Jesus that sin is an everyday struggle which requires died at 33. And the sun’s rising behind his head like accountability through “face-to-face” contact. a halo. And I haven’t said a word. “Confessing our sins is not going to a psychiatrist, “I thought it was the Ambien kicking in.” or to a torture chamber: it’s saying to the Lord, ‘Lord, The cyclist’s last words before he roared off I am a sinner,’ but saying it through the brother, into the desert, according to Leopold, were “God is because this says it concretely. ‘I am sinner because watching you.” “This is the first of many shocking of this, that and the other thing.’” The Pope offered kinds of coincidences that made it impossible for his Oct. 25 reflections to those gathered in the chapel me not to come to the church,” Leopold told CNS. of the Vatican’s Saint Martha’s guesthouse, when But why Catholicism? “I prayed, and Jesus was the he has chosen to reside. Pope Francis opened his first to show up. What else am I going to do?” he homily by reflecting that for many believing adults, replied. the idea of confessing one’s sins to a priest is either - UCAN so unbearable that they completely avoid the Sacrament, or the process is so painful that the truth is transformed into a form of fiction. 1234567

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123456715 News - Catholic World simplicity of the truth.” Although “we always have Recalling St. Paul’s words in his letter to the the tendency to hide the reality of our failings,” the Roman’s from the day’s readings, the Pope noted Pope noted that “there is something beautiful: when that the apostle did the opposite, confessing publicly we confess our sins as they are in the presence of that “good does not dwell in me, that is, in my flesh,” God, we always feel that grace of shame.””Being and that he doesn’t do the good that he wants, but ashamed in the sight of God is a grace. It is a grace: only the evil which he hates. ‘I am ashamed of myself.’” When we think of this The Pope stressed that it often happens in the life kind of shame, the Pope stressed, “We think of Peter of faith that “when I want to do good, evil is close when, after the miracle of Jesus on the lake, (he to me.””This is the struggle of Christians. It is our said) ‘Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinner.’” struggle every day. And we do not always have the - Vatican City courage to speak as Paul spoke about this struggle.” Often, noted the pontiff, we seek to justify our sins by making excuses and saying that “we are all VATICAN PLANS FIRST-EVER DISPLAY OF sinners,” and that this fight “is our struggle.””If we RELICS OF ST. PETER don’t recognize this, we will never be able to have The Vatican is planning an unprecedented public God’s forgiveness,” urged the Pope, “because if display of the relics of St. Peter, as the Year of Faith being a sinner is a word, a way of speaking, a comes to a close. The display was announced by manner of speaking, we have no need of God’s Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the president of forgiveness. But if it is a reality that makes us slaves, Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization, in an we need this interior liberation of the Lord, of that article appearing in the Vatican force.” newspaper L’Osservatore Romano. The archbishop Pope Francis then emphasized that the most did not supply any details of the plans. important element for Saint Paul in finding a way The tomb of St. Peter, located under the altar out of this justification was to confess his sin to the of the Vatican basilica, was unearthed during community, noting that “he doesn’t hide it,” and that excavations in the mid-20th century. In 1968, after the confession of one’s sins with humility is extensive research and testing, Pope Paul VI something which the Church requires of us all. announced that relics of St. Peter had been identified. “Confess your sins to one another,” he said, repeating These relics have been kept in the grotto of the the words of Saint James, not to be noticed by others, basilica, and never placed on public display. The Year but rather “to give glory to God” and to recognize of Faith concludes on November 24, the feast of that it is only him who can save. This is why, stressed Christ the King. the Pope, we go to a “brother priest,” to confess, – Catholic World News urging that when one confesses, it must be done with “concreteness.” “Some say: ‘Ah, I confess to POPE-EMERITUS BENEDICT SAYS HE PRAYS God.’ But it’s easy, it’s like confessing by email, no? DAILY FOR CHRISTIANS OF THE MIDDLE EAST God is far away, I say things and there’s no face-to- face, no eye-to-eye contact,” while “others (say)‘No, Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI said that he prays every I go to confession,’ but they confess so many day for the Christians of the Middle East. The retired ethereal things, so many up-in-the-air things, that Pontiff met on November 29 with the patriarchs of they don’t have anything concrete. And that’s the the Eastern churches in communion with the Holy same as not doing it.” See, who were in Rome for a meeting of the Concreteness, honesty, and the genuine Congregation for the Eastern Churches. Chaldean ability to be ashamed one’s mistakes are all qualities Catholic Patriarch Louis Sako told the Asia News needed in order to be open to the forgiveness of service that he had invited the former Pope to visit God, as well as the deep awareness of his love, the Iraq. He reported that the former Pontiff declined, Pope noted. Concluding his reflections, Pope Francis and described himself as “a monk who has decided stressed that in the face of confession, we should to spend the rest of his time in prayer and rest.” The have the attitude of a small child, because “when a Chaldean leader did disclose, however, that he had child comes to confess, he never says something also issued an invitation to Pope Francis. He said general.” “‘But father, I did this and I did that to my that the current Pontiff “smiled and promised a aunt, another time I said this word’ and they say the visit.” word. But they are concrete, eh? They have that - Catholic World News

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123456716 News - Catholic World REPORT: MOB BURNS CHRISTIAN HOMES IN transformed and sanctified by His love— the KARACHI; 300 FLEE strongest and the weakest, sinners, the indifferent, the discouraged and the lost.” “Do not be afraid of The day after a suicide bombing attack on an holiness,” the Pope said as he concluded his Anglican church in Peshawar, Pakistan, left over 80 remarks, saying that holiness can be seen as “the dead, a mob of 150 Muslims attacked a Christian encounter between our weakness and the strength neighborhood in Karachi, burning at least 17 homes, of God’s grace.” lootings dozens of others, and causing 300 residents – Catholic World News to flee, according to World Watch Monitor. The news service, which focuses on the persecution of POPE REMINDS BISHOPS: SERVE PRIESTS, Christians, based its report on conversations with THE POOR, NON-CATHOLICS local clergy and laity. As Karachi Christians were protesting the A bishop’s role is “always in service,” Pope Francis bombing in Peshawar, a Muslim man was killed and reminded two newly ordained archbishops at a stones were thrown at a mosque – leading the mob Vatican ceremony on October 24. The Pope presided to take revenge. Six Christians have been charged at the Episcopal ordination of Archbishop in the murder and attack on the mosque, but no Archbishop Giampiero Gloder, the new president of Muslims have been charged in the violence against the Pontifical Ecclesial Academy, and Archbishop Christians, according to the report. World Watch Jean-Marie Speich, a French-born prelate who is the Monitor also published a reflection on the Peshawar new apostolic nuncio to Ghana. “Keep in mind that bombing by Kamran Choudhry, communications you were selected to serve, not to dominate,” the officer of Caritas Pakistan. Pope told them in his homily. The Pontiff insisted – Catholic World News that bishops should be especially attentive to the needs of their priests. He said that whenever a priest THE ‘CHURCH OF SINNERS’ REMAINS HOLY, calls his bishop, the bishop should answer that same POPE TELLS AUDIENCE day. Pope Francis also said that bishops should Continuing his series of weekly talks on the nature pray for non-Catholics as well as the Catholics of of the Church, Pope Francis assured his weekly the areas under their care, since they are responsible audience on October 2 that the Church is holy for the spiritual welfare of everyone in their although “we are a Church of sinners.” “How can a dioceses. Similarly, he said, bishops should always Church be holy if she is made up of human beings, be concerned for the needs of the poor. of sinners?” the Holy Father asked the 50,000 people who had gathered in St. Peter’s Square for his - Catholic World News Wednesday public audience. He answered: The Church is holy because “she comes from JOKES: HEE HEE HEEE HHEEEE :-) God Who is holy, Who is faithful to her and never abandons her to the power of death and evil. She is The farmer’s wife was shocked at the lan- holy because Jesus Christ, Saint of God, is guage the new hired man used. indissolubly united to her; she is holy because she “Where did you learn such awful language?” is guided by the Holy Spirit which purifies, she asked. transforms, and renews. She is not holy by our “Learn? Hell, its a gift” merits, but because God makes her holy. The earliest Christians sometimes referred to themselves as “the holy,” the Pope observed, because they recognized Two friends were talking, “How did you make out in the action of the Holy Spirit upon them. In the same that fight with your wife last night?” asked one. way the Church is holy, despite “many moments of “Okay” replied his companion. ‘Why’? before we darkness,” because of God’s grace. were through she came crawling to me on her hands The Pope strongly condemned the notion that and knees” “the Church is just the Church of the pure,” and the “Yeah”? What did she say?” undeserving should be excluded. “This is heresy,” “Only one thing - ‘Come out from under that bed, he said, noting that every Christian is scarred by you coward!” sin. The Church, he said, allows us to “be renewed, 1234567

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123456717 News - Catholic World SATANISTS SUSPECTED IN TABERNACLE theologically wrong.” But in this case “the Samaritan DESECRATION IN INDIA understood that God was calling him, and he did not turn away.” The Samaritan’s human response A tabernacle at a Catholic church in Aluvi, a city of brought him closer to God, the Pope said. He 25,000 in the south western Indian state of Kerala, contrasted that attitude with the approach of those has been desecrated, according to multiple media who “do not allow God to write their lives.” reports. Satanists are suspected in the September – Catholic World News 29 incident, which included the theft of the hosts.”We strongly suspect the involvement of an PAKISTAN: FAITH GROWING STRONGER, NOT evil group,” said an official of the Kerala Catholic WEAKER, FOLLOWING TERRORIST ATTACK ON Bishops’ Conference, The New Indian CHURCH Express reported. “It may be noted that the offering The September 22 bombing of an Anglican church box in the church remains untouched. The common laity has no use of [the consecrated host], the in Peshawar, a city of 3.6 million in northern communion bread. Only those who practice black Pakistan, has strengthened the faith of the nation’s mass need it. There were reports that certain groups Christians, according to a prominent Pakistani priest. were active in giving hosts for cash.” “That attack in the church, against innocent people – Catholic World News who were just praying, has had an opposite effect: people flock to the churches more than before; there PAKISTANI CHRISTIAN, ONCE SENTENCED TO is no fear, but there is the strong conviction that we DEATH FOR BLASPHEMY, RELEASED FROM should be closer to Christ, the way, truth and life,” PRISON Father Bonnie Mendes said in an interview with the Eight months after his acquittal, Younis Masih, a Fides news agency. “Christians lived days of Pakistani Christian imprisoned since 2005 on mourning, and they protested loudly across the blasphemy charges and once sentenced to death, country,” he continued. “They also prayed in an has been released from jail. “Christians in Pakistan ecumenical manner, with the presence of other civil fear threats, attacks, violence, discrimination and society organizations and many Muslim leaders.” hatred,” his attorney told the Fides news agency. Rejecting a “persecution vision,” Father “The law of blasphemy is always a sword of Mendes said that as Christians we are not being Damocles hanging over their heads: their life is not targeted more today than in the past. Terrorism safe even after their release from prison. strikes all: the Shiites, the army, the Ahmadis, the - Catholic World News police, moderate Muslim intellectuals. There is no persecution: terrorism is a challenge for the whole DON’T BE TOO BUSY TO HEAR GOD’S VOICE, country. POPE TELLS CONGREGATION AT MORNING The Pakistani Taliban have their own agenda: MASS they do not want democracy, and they want to In his homily at a morning Mass on October 7, Pope impose the Islamic law. Ordained in 1962, Father Francis said that Christians should “let God write Mendes is the former executive secretary of the our lives,” rather than “do the writing ourselves.” National Commission for Justice and Peace and the Commenting on the Gospel story of the Good former director of Caritas Asia. Samaritan, the Pope said that the priest who passed by the wounded man “didn’t hear the voice of God,” – Catholic World News probably because he was preoccupied with his own duties. The Pope pictured a Catholic priest, saying to himself, “I will be late for Mass.” Similarly the Hee hee hee Levite passed the man by, not wanting to be involved and perhaps face a judge in the case. When it comes to spreading the The Samaritan, the Pope observed, was a news the female is a lot more de- man “who wasn’t used to participating in religious rites, who didn’t lead a moral life, who was pendable than the email. Lol :-)

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123456718 News - Catholic World VATICAN COIN PULLED FROM CIRCULATION; who unknown to her at the time — was already ‘JESUS’ WAS MISSPELLED married. “In June I discovered I was pregnant through him and when I told him instead of being The Vatican has abruptly stopped the circulation of happy he told me he was already married, already new commemorative medals, after discovering that had a child and to have an abortion,” Romero said, the name of Jesus was misspelled. The medals, according to the Daily Mail. “I told him that I would minted to commemorate the 1st year of the not have an abortion and told him to get out of my pontificate of Pope Francis, were minted with the life.” name “Lesus” inscribed on the edge. The Latin Romero described her situation in a letter to inscription should have been “Iesus,” since the letter the Pope, sharing that had never had luck with men, “J” is not used in Latin. The medals, produced by and that after marrying young and getting divorced, the Italian state mint, went on sale on Tuesday, she thought she had found the perfect man. October 8, but were quickly pulled from circulation However, after learning about the man’s when the error was belatedly discovered. existing marriage, she felt “humiliated and betrayed,” and told the Holy Father that she wrote to him because she had “no-one else to turn to.” “I DON’T BE NAIVE, THE DEVIL EXISTS, POPE TELLS addressed the letter simply to Pope Francis, the CONGREGATION Vatican and put it in the post. I didn’t even send it recorded delivery. I didn’t really expect to get a reply Pope Francis stated emphatically that the Devil’s but then out of the blue when I was on holiday I had existence is a reality, in his homily at a daily Mass a phone call from him.” on October 11. Romero said that when the call came in, she The Pope observed that some priests, when knew the number was from Rome because of the they preach about Gospel accounts of Jesus driving city’s dial code, and that she recognized the Pope’s out demons, say that the stories refer to mental voice as soon as he started speaking. “I had only illness. It is true that sometimes mental illness can seen the Pope once before, from St Peter’s Square mimic demonic possession, the Pope conceded. “But when I lived in Rome,” she said, “I would never have it is also true that there was the devil!” “We should imagined that the Pope would pick up a telephone not be naïve,” the Pope continued. The devil is a and call me and speak to me as if I was a dear friend.” reality, and refusing to recognize the struggle “We were only on the phone for a few minutes but between Jesus and the devil is a way of only my heart was filled with joy,” she added. “halfway” accepting the salvific role of Jesus Christ. During the call, Pope Francis consoled her, The Lord came to end “the enslavement the devil saying that she would never be alone, and that a has over us,” the Pope said. He reminded his child is a “gift from God” and “a sign of Divine congregation of Christ’s words from the day’s Providence,” saying also that she had been both Gospel: “Either you are with me or you are against “brave and strong” for her unborn child. When me.” Pope Francis urged the faithful to guard against Romero shared her fears of baptizing her baby the devil, relying on the Holy Spirit and remaining because she was divorced and a single mother, the vigilant against temptations. Holy Father assured her that he would be her spiritual father, and even voiced his willingness to baptize the baby himself. POPE OFFERS TO BAPTIZE SINGLE MOTHER’S CHILD Pope Francis made a personal phone call to a young “I am not a saint, unless you think of a Italian woman facing a difficult pregnancy, applaud- saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.” ing her bravery in choosing life for her child and offering to baptize the baby. - Nelson Mandela Anna Romero, a 35-year-old woman from central Italy, was on vacation when she received a “How beautiful a day can be when phone call from the Pope. She had written the Pope kindness touches it!” earlier this summer, describing her anguish at ~ George Elliston discovering that she had become pregnant by a man 12345678

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1234567819 News - Catholic World TRUE CHRISTIANS BEAR BROTHER OF MURDERED Prado recalled the HUMILIATION WITH ‘JOY MAN CITES FAITH, FORGIVES instruction of Pope Francis to go KILLER to “the peripheries, where there AND PATIENCE,’ SAYS POPE is sorrow, where the people are During his daily homily Pope Pointing to his faith in Christ and in need of love.” “A person who Francis reflected on the nature of reliance on the mercy of God, a kills is a person who has not what it means to be a Christian, man in Argentina has voiced experienced love. If we don’t saying that an authentic follower of public forgiveness to the man who begin with that, it’s going to be Christ is able to endure difficulties murdered his brother. “If God very difficult,” he said. with a positive attitude. The Pope forgives us every day and gives us - CNA/EWTN News imparted his message to those the chance to ‘start over,’ how can gathered in the Vatican’s Santa I not forgive somebody else?” ALL CHRISTIANS ARE CALLED Marta guesthouse for his daily Mass Hernan Prado said with tears in TO BE SAINTS, POPE TELLS on Sept. 27. Stressing the need and his eyes during a march his family AUDIENCE importance of sacrifice in the convened for forgiveness and Christian’s life of faith, the Pope repentance on Sept. 9. At his Angelus audience on began his homily by reflecting on Around 3,000 people took November 1, Pope Francis said the Gospel reading from St. Luke part in the march. “The man who that the feast of All Saints is a where Jesus asks his disciples who killed my brother is also my reminder “that the end of our they think he is. brother. That is what I want to earthly existence is not death, Pope Francis recounted instill in my nephews and children. but rather paradise!” how it was after this question that I choose to forgive and to extend The Pope reminded the crowd in Peter replies with his declaration forgiveness,” Prado said. St. Peter’s Square that the saints that Jesus is the Christ, but that Prado’s brother, “are not supermen, nor were they once Jesus warns of his upcoming Sebastian, was killed outside his born perfect. They are like us.” passion and death, “Peter was house in Mendoza, Argentina, as What distinguishes the saints, he frightened and scandalized.” This he sat in his car with his two said, is that “when they knew attitude, said the pontiff, is “just children Sept. 6. Sebastian was God’s love, they followed him like many Christians” who declare preparing to leave for a family with all their heart, without that “this will never happen to you, reunion when a man approached conditions or hypocrisy.” I will follow you up to this point.” and tried to steal his car, “The saints never hated,” “This is the temptation of a according to reports. Although he the Pope continued. “Hate does spiritual wellbeing.” Just like the fought back, he was shot three not come from God, but from the rich young man from the gospel, times and eventually died in the devil! And the Saints distanced “who wanted to follow Jesus but emergency room despite efforts themselves from the devil.” only up to a certain point,” the Pope to save his life. Returning to his central theme, explained that “the scandal of the Prado said his offer to the Pope emphasized that Cross continues to block many forgive the killer comes from his sanctity is not an unattainable Christians” who complain about the faith. “I am a Catholic and I goal. “All of us, in baptism, wrongdoings and insults they believe in Jesus Christ,” he said. receive the inheritance of being suffer, rather than following the If he ever meets his brother’s able to become saints. way of the cross. “The proof if murderer face-to-face, Prado says Saintliness is a vocation for all.” somebody is a true Christian is his he “would hug him, cry a lot and The Kingdom of Heaven, or her ability to endure tell him I could be like a brother the Pope said, “is for those who humiliations with joy and to him. That I weep for him and I do not base their security in patience.” weep for my brother.” material things, but rather in the Concluding his homily, the “In fact, if he comes to talk love of God.” Jesus shows this Holy Father emphasized that it is to me I would not turn him in,” path to sanctity in the beatitudes, our own choice “whether to be a Prado continued. “The police have he said, and the witness of the Christian of well-being or a that job. If he asks for forgiveness, saints teaches us to “trust in the Christian close to Jesus,” who walks that’s enough for me. I am not Lord, because the Lord never with him along the path of the going to hold him or anything.” disappoints.”

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1234567820 News - Catholic World ANGLICAN LEADER HINTS AT JOINT CHURCH IS LIKE A WIDOW SEEKING HER ‘SURPRISES’ WITH POPE FRANCIS HUSBAND, POPE SAYS The Church militant is similar to a widow and The head of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop progresses through history searching for her divine Justin Welby of Canterbury, said in an interview with spouse Jesus Christ, Pope Francis preached in his Vatican Radio that “a few” Catholic-Anglican homily for daily Mass Sept. 17. “surprises” may be forthcoming. “There are very The widow of Naim in Scripture is “an icon fundamental and extremely important doctrinal and of the Church, because the Church is in a certain dogmatic differences that we have between us and sense a widow,” the Holy Father said at the chapel they have to be worked on, as they are with Rome of the Vatican’s Domus Sanctae Marthae, reflecting and the Anglicans with ARCIC [the Anglican - Roman on the day’s Gospel. “The Bridegroom is gone and Catholic International Commission], and we take she walks in history, hoping to find him, to meet those extremely seriously,” he said. “It’s absolutely with him. And she will be his true bride. In the essential that those are worked on. But we need to meantime she - the Church - is alone! The Lord is make sure we’re working on them in the context of invisible. She has a certain dimension of churches and ecclesial communities that say no widowhood.” sacrifice is too great to be obedient to the call of Christ’s encounter with the widow of Naim Christ that we may be one.” “God has given you, shows that he has “the capacity to suffer with us, and given us all, a great Pope,” he continued. “And to be close to our sufferings and make them his own,” he’s a great Pope of surprises… Surprises? Yes, I the Pope said, and the Lord “had great compassion” think there’ll be one or two surprises. We’re hoping on her. “The Lord has a special love for widows, he to produce a few surprises.” cares for them.” Asked to divulge “any hint, any teaser” The Church is like a widow, Pope Francis said, about his visit to the Vatican next spring, Archbishop and is “courageous” in defending her children, “like Welby replied, “No, absolutely not!” the widow who went to the corrupt judge to (press her rights) and eventually won.” “Our mother Church is courageous! She has the courage of a woman who knows that her children are her own, and must CHRIST IS OUR ONLY HOPE, POPE REMINDS defend them and bring them to an encounter with FAITHFUL her Spouse.” “She is a Church that, when she is faithful, knows how to cry. When the Church does “We can enter heaven only thanks to the blood of not cry, something is not right. She weeps for her the Lamb, the blood of Christ,” Pope Francis children, and prays,” he said. reminded a congregation as he celebrated Mass at Pope Francis added that the Church the Verano cemetery in Rome on November 1, the continues through history “rearing her children,” and feast of All Saints. “gives them strength and accompanies them until The saints, the Pope said in his homily, await the final farewell in order to leave them in the hands us now in heaven. “They proclaim that they have of her Spouse, who at the end will come to encounter been saved not only for their works-– they have also her.” done good works– but that they have been saved He said that he sees the Church in the widow of by the Lord.” The hope of Christians lies entirely in Naim, weeping for her dead son, and that Christ says the saving grace of Jesus Christ, he said: “a faith to the Church: “Do not cry. I am with you, I will that does not disappoint.” accompany you, I will wait for you there, at the Pope Francis recalled that in the early wedding feast, the final marriage, that of the Lamb. Church, the virtue of hope was sometimes depicted Stop (your tears), this son of yours was dead, now as an anchor—”as if life was the anchor thrown to lives.” the shores of Heaven and all of us set forth towards As Christ told the widow’s son to arise, so that shore, grasping the rope of the anchor.” The he tells us to get up “when we are dead because of Pope recommended that the faithful “anchor our sin and we are going to ask for pardon.” And when hearts where the dearly departed await us.” he grants us pardon, the Pope noted, “he returns us to our mother.”

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12345678 1234567821 12345678 News - Catholic World “Rightly understood, devotion to Mary helps us to Reconciliation with the Lord is not a matter of only be God-centered, as she was,” the nuncio explained, the priest and the penitent, he explained, but it is “and it will not take us away from Christ, but it will completed only when Christ returns us to our mother, lead us to better follow the path of Jesus.” the Church, because “there is no path of life, there Mary helps teach us our faith, he said, as is no pardon, there is no reconciliation outside of “our sister, our ‘Mother of faith,’ our fellow disciple.” mother Church.” Pope Francis concluded by saying that the - CNA/EWTN News day’s Gospel inspires him “to ask the Lord for the grace to be always confident of this ‘Mom’ who defends us, who teaches us, who helps us grow and SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT to speak the dialect” of orthodoxy and catechism. - CNA/EWTN News CHURCH has 6 letters, so does MOSQUE. BIBLE has 5 letters, so does QURAN. INDIAN ARCHDIOCESE RECEIVES RELIC OF LIFE has 4 letters, so does DEAD. POPE JOHN PAUL II LOVE has 4 letters, so does HATE. FRIENDS has 7, so does ENEMIES. A reliquary containing a cloth with a drop of blood TRUTH has 5, so does LYING. from Blessed Pope John Paul II will be displayed for HEAL has 4, so does HURT. veneration in a Marian Basilica in the Archdiocese POSITIVE has 8, so does NEGATIVE. of Bombay, India. Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, the SUCCESS has 7, so does FAILURE. apostolic nuncio to India, presented the relic to ABOVE has 5, so does UNDER. Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay at Mount Mary’s JOY has 3 letters so does CRY. Basilica at Bandra.Archbishop Pennacchio was in HAPPY has 5 letters so does ANGER. the archdiocese on an official two-day visit. “The RIGHT has 5 letters so does WRONG. nuncio’s visit marks an important faith factor to reconfirm the growth of faith and mission activity Are they by coincidence? of evangelization,” said Father Antony Charanghat, Choose wisely. spokesman for the Archdiocese of Bombay. He told This means LIFE is like a double-edged sword. CNA that receiving the relic during the current Year of Faith “is a twin joy.” People in India have great We should choose the better side of Life! “love, affinity and memory” of Pope John Paul II, as a result of his 1986 apostolic visit to the country, Fr. Charanghat said. “People of all faith recognized him “The six most important words: as an enduring Pope and a great leader.” Known for I admit I made a mistake. his world travel and outreach to youth, among other The five most important words: things, Bl. John Paul II died in 2005 and will be canonized next spring. You did a good job. The relic of the beatified Pope was presented to the The four most important words: rector of Mount Mary’s Basilica at the end of a Sept. What is YOUR opinion? 8 Mass. The three most important words: Attended by more than 8,000 people, the Mass concluded a novena and festival of Mary’s If you please. Nativity, celebrated throughout the country by The two most important words: Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Thank You. In his homily, the nuncio reflected on the Virgin Mary, to whom Pope John Paul II had a great The one most important word: devotion. He defended Catholics’ veneration of We. Mary, noting that “we honor her precisely because The least important word: she is the ‘best disciple’ the most transparent example of what it means to follow Jesus and to do I.” God’s will.” ~ Author Unknown

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123456722 News - Catholic World PEACE THE ONLY SOLUTION, POPE SAYS IN POPE FRANCIS: SACRAMENT OF THE WAKE OF PAKISTAN BOMBING EUCHARIST IS NOT A ‘MAGIC RITE’ Pope Francis condemned a massive suicide During his daily homily, Pope Francis gave special bombing at a Christian Church in Pakistan over the emphasis to the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, weekend, calling the violence unacceptable and saying that it is not magical act, but an encounter urging peace efforts in the region. “Today, in with the living God. Pakistan, because of a wrong choice, a decision of Pope Francis delivered his Sept. 24 homily hatred, of war, there was an attack in which over to those who gathered in the Vatican’s guest house, 70 people died. This choice cannot stand.” Santa Marta, for a private liturgy. The Holy Father At around noon Sunday, Sept. 22, two suicide drew his reflections from the morning’s reading from bombers blew themselves up in the midst of the the passage in psalms, “We will go with joy to the hundreds of worshippers leaving the historic All House of the Lord,” saying to those gathered that Saints church in Kohati Gate, a heavily populated the Sacrament of the Eucharist is not a “magic rite,” area of Peshawar, Pakistan. Witnesses of the but rather an encounter with Jesus, who is our attack, which killed at least 80 and wounded more constant companion in life. Throughout the history than 120 people, said they heard two blasts from of God’s people, the Pope said, there have been the bombs, the second being more powerful than many “beautiful moments which bring joy,” but also the first. Suicide vests were later found outside of moments “of pain, martyrdom and sin.” the church. It is reported that the militant group However, the Pope noted that “God, who has Jandullah, linked to the Pakistani Taliban, said they no History because He is eternal, desired to make carried out the double bombing in retaliation for US History by walking alongside His people.” “He drone strikes in Pakistan’s tribal north-west. decided to become one of us, and as one of us, to This attack comes as the latest in a series walk with us through Jesus.” of assaults on Pakistani Christians, who represent Pope Francis stressed that this act not only about 1.6% of the country’s overwhelmingly Muslim shows us the greatness of God, but also his humility, population. Reports say that there are about 200,000 saying that when his people strayed from him “in Christians in the province, of whom 70,000 lived in sin and idolatry,” he did not abandon them, but “He Peshawar. was there” waiting for their return. Both religious and political leaders have Jesus shows us the same humility, said the condemned the attack, however angry crowds took Pope, in that “he walks with the People of God, walks to the streets in denouncement of the state’s failure with the sinners; walks also with the arrogant,” to protect minorities. On Sunday the demonstrators adding that Jesus did much to “help these arrogant blocked roads in Peshawar, Islamabad, Lahore and hearts of the Pharisees.” The Church, stressed the Karachi, and reports say that rallies are also pontiff, can rejoice in the humility of God which expected in major cities on Monday. The attack has accompanies us as “We go with joy to the House of been described as the first assault of its kind on the Lord.” “We go with joy because He accompanies Christians in recent memory, and is thought to be us, He is with us…and the Lord Jesus, even in our the deadliest ever attack on Pakistan’s Christians. personal lives, accompanies us with the Sacraments. As a result, the Pakistani government has The Sacrament is not a magic rite: it is an encounter announced three days of mourning. with Jesus Christ; we encounter the Lord – it is He In unprepared remarks made at the end of who is beside us and accompanies us.” his Sept. 22 one-day trip to the city of Cagliari on - CNA/EWTN News the Italian island of Sardinia, Pope Francis referred to the attack as an act of “hatred and war,” saying “One can pay back the loan of gold, that violence such as this “cannot stand.” “It serves but one dies forever in debt to those nothing. Only the path of peace can build a better who are kind.” world.” The lights on the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica ~ Malayan Proverb were dark on Sunday night, reportedly out of remembrance and mourning for the victims and their “The roots of all goodness lie in the families. soil of appreciation for goodness.” - CNA/EWTN News ~The Dalai Lama

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123456723 POPE FRANCIS EXCOMMUNICATES ‘KNOW JESUS,’ POPE URGES DURING DAILY DISSIDENT PRIEST IN AUSTRALIA HOMILY

Pope Francis has ordered the excommunication of a In his daily homily Pope Francis stressed the Catholic priest in Australia who illicitly said Mass, importance of having a personal encounter with taught that women should be ordained priests and Jesus, and said that there are three languages advocated for “gay marriage.” An Archdiocese of needed in order to get to know him. “Some people Melbourne spokesman said the Pope had ordered begin to feel afraid of this man,” said the Pope in the excommunication of Father Greg Reynolds, who reference to Herod’s question of Jesus’ identity in has also been dismissed from the clerical state, the the gospel, “because he could have led them to a Australian Associated Press reports. political conflict with the Romans.” One might Australian newspaper The Age reported that wonder, he said, “Who is this man, who makes so Archbishop Denis Hart of Melbourne said the many problems?” excommunication was due to the priest’s public The Holy Father spoke to those in attendance of celebration of Mass without faculties to do so, and his Sept. 26 daily Mass in the chapel of the Santa his preaching contrary to the teachings of the Marta guest residence in the Vatican. “You cannot Church. The letter announcing the penalty, written know Jesus without having problems,” said the Holy in Latin, was dated May 31. Father, “But if you want to have a problem, go to Excommunication is a canonical penalty intended the street to know Jesus – you’ll end up having not to warn and correct those who commit grave one, but many! But that is the way to get to know offenses against the Church. Priests who are Jesus!” “You cannot know Jesus in first class! One excommunicated may not receive or celebrate the gets to know Jesus in going out (into) every day (life). sacraments. Reynolds said he expected to be You cannot get to know Jesus in peace and quiet, dismissed from the clerical state, but not nor even in the library: Know Jesus.” excommunicated. He said he was told that Pope Francis then noted that the languages of Archbishop Hart did not apply for dismissal from the “mind, heart and action” are necessary in order for clerical state, but that someone else contacted the every Christian in building their relationship with Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. the Son of Man. Reynolds had resigned as a parish priest in the Drawing attention to the Catechism of the Archdiocese of Melbourne in 2011. He founded a Catholic Church as an exceptional resource for group called “Inclusive Catholics” the following year, knowing our faith, the Holy Father emphasized that and has indicated he will continue his work with the there is much to learn about Jesus by reading it, group. and urged those present to both study and read it. In August 2012, a visitor to the group’s woman “We know the Son of God, who came to save us, we led religious service reportedly fed “consecrated understand the beauty of the history of salvation, bread” to his dog. Media reports at the time were of the love of the Father, studying the Catechism,” unclear whether the bread was in fact the Holy he said, asking those present “how many people Eucharist, as the priest’s involvement in the service have read the Catechism of the Catholic Church since was minimal. However, the reports led Archbishop it was published over 20 years ago?” Hart to say such a sacrilege of the Blessed Sacrament The Holy Father stressed that although resources would be an “abomination.” such as the Catechism are needed important, it is The Catholic Church requires priests to have only a step in getting to know Jesus, and that faculties, or the approval of Church authorities, to knowing him in the mind is not enough. “It is licitly celebrate Mass. Catholic teaching is that necessary to get to know Jesus in dialogue with women cannot be ordained priests for ecclesial Him.” “If you do not pray,” urged the Pontiff, “if you reasons, because Christ did not grant the Church do not talk with Jesus, you do not know Him. You authority to do so. Several individuals who have know things about Jesus, but you do not go with participated in the simulated “ordination” of women that knowledge, which He gives your heart in prayer.” have been excommunicated. Pope Francis went on to say that if one studies the - CNA Catechism and prays frequently it is it isstill not sufficient, and that if one truly desires to know Jesus “Give thanks for a little and you will find a lot.” “it is by following Him” that it will happen. ~The Hausa of Nigeria 1234567

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123456724 News - Catholic World It is necessary “to go, to walk along the This spiritual war is one of light and darkness, said streets, journeying,” urged the Pope, “It is necessary the Pope. On the eve of the Feast of St. Michael the to know Jesus in the language of action.” Archangel, the Gendarmerie’s patron saint, Pope “One cannot know Jesus without getting oneself Francis asked for his intercession. “We ask St. involved with Him, without betting your life (on) Him.” Michael to help us in this war: never speak ill of The Holy Father concluded his reflections by each other, never open your ears to gossip,” the returning to Herod’s question about the identity of Pope said. Jesus, saying that many people today, “including us,” - CNA/EWTN News ask the same thing, to which the Word of God responds “You want to know who He is? Read what the Church tells you about Him, talk to Him in prayer MATERIALISM ROBS US OF OUR HUMANITY, and walk the street with him.” WARNS POPE FRANCIS “This is the way! Everyone must make his choice.” Pope Francis celebrated Mass in cloudy St. Peter’s Square this morning, cautioning the faithful against - CNA/EWTN News the danger of losing their personal identity to materialism. “Whenever material things, money, GOSSIP HELPS DEVIL UNDERMINE CHURCH, worldliness, become the center of our lives, they take POPE SAYS hold of us, they possess us; we lose our very identity as human beings,” he said on September 29. Pope Francis celebrated Mass for the Vatican police force today, exhorting them to fight in the war Sunday’s Mass was held at the close of an against evil by rejecting the temptation to gossip. international weekend conference in Rome for He warned that among those who live and catechists during the year of faith. work in the Vatican, “the devil seeks to create an internal war, a kind of civil spiritual war” by means The Pope explained that Christians must be on guard of idle chatter, said Pope Francis on September 28. against “the danger of complacency, comfort, The temptation to gossip is present for everyone, worldliness in our lifestyles and in our hearts, of noted Pope Francis, “even for me.” making our well-being the most important thing in Gossip is a sin against unity which the devil uses to our lives.” When materialism takes over, we “end up undermine the community of the Church, he becoming self-absorbed and finding security in explained. material things which ultimately rob us of our face, The morning Mass was held outdoors in the our human face.” The human person is “made in the Lourdes grotto of the Vatican gardens. The Mass image and likeness of God, not in the image and was for members of the Vatican police corps, known likeness of material objects, not in that of idols!” he as the Gendarmes. The Gendarmerie was founded exclaimed. in 1816 by Pope Pius VII after the dissolution of Too much concern for material things can lead us to Napoleon’s empire. While the Swiss Guards are “lose the memory of God.” With this forgetfulness, primarily dedicated to protecting the Pope, the Christians “become empty; like the rich man in the Gendarmes are responsible for the security and Gospel, we no longer have a face!” public order of Vatican City. Mary serves as an example for all because Pope Francis said the police force must not she maintains the remembrance of God. Moreover, only defend the Vatican against thieves or attacking Mary “sees God’s wondrous works in her life but armies. “Napoleon is not coming anymore,” he doesn’t think about honor, prestige or wealth; she quipped. Instead, the “war here today is rather doesn’t become self-absorbed,” noted the Pope. something else.” “It is a war that is not waged with nstead, she goes to help others. When Mary visits the weapons that we recognize: it is a war waged her cousin Elizabeth after the Annunciation, Pope with the tongue,” he explained. Francis said, she recalls “God’s work, God’s He Pope Francis told the police force to be particularly thanked His Beatitude John X, the Greek attentive to gossip within the Vatican walls. Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, for “If (you hear) someone gossiping, stop him! (Say) his presence at the liturgy. He called the Patriarch ‘here there can be none of that: walk out of St. Anne’s “my brother.” Gate. Go outside and talk there! Here you cannot!’”

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1234567 123456725 1234567 The Pope then greeted the cheering pilgrims from Pope Francis went on to emphasize the need his Popemobile, stopping to bless babies and the for “creativity” in catechesis, because “you need to disabled. The crowds were so large that they spilled know the circumstances in which you preach the out of St. Peter’s Square, filling Via della gospel.” Although the gospel message never Conciliazione, the street leading to the square. Hand- changes, we must be able to adapt our methods painted flags waved with messages like “thank you according to our circumstances. “God is not rigid,” for having called us” and “we go to serve without he said. fear.” Many people wore “Year of Faith” scarves Moreover, said the Pope, Christian catechists around their necks. cannot remain “closed off in our group, in our parish, - CNA/EWTN News in our movement, in our environment.” Such an attitude leads to a person being “sick.” LIVE YOUR FAITH, POPE EXHORTS CATECHISTS Rather, we need the kind of catechist who “has the courage to take the risk to go out” preaching Pope Francis met with a group of catechists from the gospel. around the world on Friday, encouraging them to Sue Petritz of Sussex England, who works live a life of witness for the faith rather than simply with adults entering the Catholic Church, was catechizing as a job. “Be catechists, don’t work as present at the meeting. She found Pope Francis’ catechists,” the Pope said to a group of two words motivating. “He’s just a great inspiration to thousand gathered in the Paul VI audience hall in catechists everywhere, because if the Pope can do Rome on September 27. “Being a catechist is a it and he uses Jesus as his example, we can do it as vocation.” well. He inspires us,” she told CNA. The pontiff stressed the importance of living The meeting with Pope Francis was part of a life of witness, because as Benedict XVI had noted, the International Conference on Catechesis the Church does not grow through proselytizing, but organized for the Year of Faith. Two thousand through attracting, and that which attracts people catechists from around the world gathered from is a life that witnesses to the gospel. “People see September 26-28 in Rome to consider the theme of the gospel in our lives: let them read the gospel,” “Catechist: A Witness of Faith.” One participant said Pope Francis. In order to live the gospel, we from Portugal, Christina, expressed her joy in being must remain with Christ. “The first thing, for a part of an international gathering. “I think it’s very disciple, is to be with the Teacher, to listen to him, important to meet with people from other countries to learn from him. And this always matters, it is a and other cultural experiences – and then we feel journey that lasts the whole of life!” that we really are brothers and sisters that have a The Pope then asked the participants, “how common Father,” she said. do you live, remaining with Christ?” The conference included the meeting with When someone goes to pray before Jesus Pope Francis as well as various presentations on in the tabernacle, “you look at him, but do you let catechesis and a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Peter. him see you? Allow him to look at you!” encouraged Pope Francis. It is in this union with the Lord that - CNA/EWTN News we find the strength to go out of ourselves in order to share the gospel with others, he explained. These JOHN PAUL II, JOHN XXIII TO BE CANONIZED evangelization efforts must bring us to the periphery, DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY because that is where God himself goes. Pope Francis reflected on the story of Jonah, The Vatican has announced that former Popes John who was called by God out of his “calm and orderly Paul II and John XXIII are slated to be canonized this life” to go the city of Nineveh, which was “beyond coming spring. his schema, at the periphery of his world.” The announcement was made following the This story teaches us that “God is not afraid Sept. 30 consistory, in which the Holy Father of the periphery.” In fact, “if you go to the periphery, proclaimed that the pontiffs would be canonized you will find him there,” explained the Pope. He then together April 27, 2014 on the second Sunday of went on to give an example of how catechists could Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday. do this. “In Buenos Aires, there are many children A consistory is a meeting where the Pope who don’t even know how to make the sign of the and the College of Cardinals come together to Cross! This is a periphery. We must go there.” 1234567

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1234567 discuss and determine dates for current causes of front of a closed church, it feels strange.” There are beatification or canonization. reasons—or “excuses, justifications”—for keeping In recent months, the final steps paving the churches closed, he said, but the result is ‘the image way towards Bl. John Paul II’s canonization, including of Christians who have the key in their hand, but the approval of the second needed miracle, have take it away without opening the door.” “The key been completed. However, in the case of John XXIII, that opens the door to faith is prayer,” the Pope said. only one miracle has been formally approved by the A Christian who does not pray is an “arrogant Vatican, instead of the usual two. Although the witness,” likely to drive others away from the decision to waive the second miracle is unusual, it Church. Again referring to the Pharisees, the Pope is within the authority of the Pope to do so. cautioned: “I say to pray. I do not say to ‘say prayers,’ When the decision was announced earlier because these teachers of the law said many this summer, Vatican press office director Fr. prayers.” Federico Lombardi, S.J. explained that since there - CNA/EWTN News was already one approved miracle allowing Pope John XXIII to be beatified, the canonization will still EVANGELIZE BY OFFERING HOPE, be valid, even without a second miracle. Bl. John POPE SUGGESTS XXII is most known for his encyclical “Pacem in Terris,” and for his calling of the Second Vatican By their lives Christians should testify to “God’s Council, the 50th anniversary of which is currently mercy and tenderness toward every creature,” Pope being celebrated during the Year of Faith. Francis said in an October 14 address to the Bl. John Paul II is perhaps one of the most members of the Pontifical Council for New well-known pontiffs in recent history, and is most Evangelization. remembered for his charismatic nature, his love of “In our time we often encounter an attitude of youth and his world travels, along with his role in indifference towards faith, which is no longer the fall of communism in Europe during his 27-year considered relevant to human life,” the Pope said. papacy. The cherished Polish Pope died in 2005, By the witness of their lives, Christians should marking his 2011 beatification as one of the quickest prompt their neighbors to ask questions about their in recent Church history, and is the first Pope to be faith, he said; those questions would furnish the beatified by his immediate successor. opportunities for effective evangelization. Millions of people are living without hope, the Pope - CNA/EWTN News continued. Christians should “reawaken everywhere this hope, especially where it is suffocated by FAITH WITHOUT PRAYER BECOMES difficult and at times inhuman existential conditions, IDEOLOGY, POPE WARNS where hope cannot breathe.” Once someone is attracted to the faith, he added, the Church must Christians who do no pray risk descending into an provide a place—”the house where the doors are ideological version of faith, Pope Francis warned a always open”—and a means of continuing congregation at morning Mass on October 17. And catechesis so that instruction in the faith “is not when one becomes “a disciple of the ideology, he left to chance or improvisation.” has lost the faith.” Commenting on a Gospel in which Jesus - CNA/EWTN News denounced the Pharisees, the Pope spoke about the danger of a dry and unloving approach to faith. “The JOKE faith passes through a distiller, so to speak, and A beggar knocked at the door of a very rich per- becomes ideology,” he said. Ideology “chases away the people,” the Pope said, and—like the son and shouted for alms. Pharisees—imposes burdens on ordinary people that tend to distance them from the faith. The Pope Came a voice from inside the house: said that the influence of “ideological Christians” “House Mistress is not here.” is a “serious illness” in the Church. Speaking of Christians who make it difficult Beggar: “I am asking for alms and not for house for others to enter the Church, Pope Francis said: mistress, please.” “When we go down the street and find ourselves in

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Father’s Name: Mr. Rovilato Nicholas Mor we are bestowed with immense co-operation, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Christina Neivakhronou understanding and support wherever we are involved. Date of Marriage: 08-04-1997 Any good and bad experience in your life? Family Day: 09th April Peace the only solution, Pope says in wake of Father’s Job: State Civil Service (Joint Pakistan bombing Secy. Works & Housing We are happy and contended with successful life Dept. Govt. of Nagaland) by the grace of God, though, as an administrator, I had confronted with various situations of serious Mother’s Job: Primary Teacher (School law and order problems and risk of life at posting Education) places at Athibung and Noklak involving the U.G. elements. As Deputy Commissioner Wokha, I had No. of Children: Five daughters – 3 are confronted a traumatic incident where me and my students, 1st Class 10, 3rd Class 4, 4th Class 1. District Court was attacked physically by an unruly Second daughter is a special child and remains at mob for long three hours in presence of adequate home after one year of attending school. However, security personnel. The psychological, social and she is very intelligent, talkative and frank and legal consequences in the aftermath of the incident equipped with good general knowledge though were a real testing time for the whole family. physically totally dependent. Your message to others? Something about your family Roses are sweet, but thorny. Likewise, life are We are a family of arranged marriage, husband sweet but also contains trials and problems which from Peducha village and wife from Phesama are inevitable which one should embrace with village of different range of Angami tribe. A family courage and trust in God that all things comes to immensely blessed by God, ruled by unanimity and us for our good. peaceful atmosphere without any contradiction in likes and dislikes, and has not been subjected to Contribution to the growth of the Church. any circumstances beyond the bearable limits so far. We are extremely grateful to God Almighty for We will contribute our insignificant mite in service providing all our basic necessities, a unique parent- for the growth / development of the Church child cohesion including a Special child to brighten wherever we are, since it is the feeding centre for our homes, a comfortable dwelling house, enough our spiritual well being. to eat and drink which many families are deprived of in the world.

What is your dream? To bring up our sweet children as dedicated faithful SHARING catholic in various professions and vocations in due course of time as they grow up. wishes all its readers a Some person to whom you are grateful? very Happy Christmas Next to God, we are grateful to our parents of both sides who are wonderfully gracious, understanding and a grace - filled and caring for our well being, never demanding, as unfortunately experienced by some in-laws. We are also very grateful to our working colleagues in New Year 2014 work places as well as in church activities where

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