Imprimatur (Sd) Mar Paul Alappatt Bishop of Ramanathapuram Chief Editor Fr. Geo Kunnathuparambil Mob:0 95009 51984 Associate Editor Fr. Dibin Aluvassery VC Mob:0 89031 59405 Published by Fr. Jose Kannumkuzhy Bishop’s House, Ramanathapuram Ph: 0422- 4221795 Website : www.dioceseoframanathapuram.org Printed at: Annual Subscription Rs. 150/- Single Copy Rs. 20/- Let us pray for the intentions of the Holy Father Universal: Small Farmers -That small farmers may receive a just reward for their precious labor. Evangelization: African Christians -That Christians in Africa may give witness to love and faith in Jesus Christ amid political-religious conflicts. Pope Tweets k ¿p -e ¿ 03 CBCI 32nd Plenary Assembly 11 Decree of Convocation 21 Sr. Sally's eyewitness account of Yemen killings 24 c q] -X m -I m -c ym -eb w 27 c q] -X m Z n\ w 30 ^ n\ m‡k v H m^ ok v 32 Bishop's Engagements 36 From the Bishop's Diary 36 St. John's Medical College, Bangalore 37 ^ ma ne n A ∏ -à -te ‰ v 40 sk a n -\ mc n h ntij w 43 h ni zm -k -] -c n -i o -e\ w 45 aZ¿ sX tck ] ok v tl mw 45 k ma ql y tk h -\ -c wK w 47 k otd m -a -e -_ m¿ a mX r -th Z n 48 \h o -I -c -W -a p -t¶ ‰ w 48 Fk v. -F w . -B ¿ . -k n. 49 sN d p] pj v] a nj ‡ e oK v 50 I mfl -e nI v b qfl v a qh vsa v 52 St. Joseph's School 53 k mt¥ mw {I ntb -j ‡k v 53 ] mà -d´ Iu¨k n´54 02
Transcript
Imprimatur(Sd)
Mar Paul Alappatt
Bishop of Ramanathapuram
Chief EditorFr. Geo Kunnathuparambil
Mob:0 95009 51984 Associate Editor
Fr. Dibin Aluvassery VCMob:0 89031 59405
Published byFr. Jose Kannumkuzhy
Bishop’s House, RamanathapuramPh: 0422- 4221795
Website : www.dioceseoframanathapuram.org
Printed at:Annual Subscription Rs. 150/-
Single Copy Rs. 20/-
Let us pray for the intentions of the Holy FatherUniversal: Small Farmers -That small farmers may receive a just reward for their precious labor.Evangelization: African Christians -That Christians in Africa may give witness to love and faith in Jesus Christ amid political-religious conflicts.
Pope Tweets
k¿°p-e¿ 03
CBCI 32nd Plenary Assembly 11
Decree of Convocation 21
Sr. Sally's eyewitness account of Yemen killings 24
cq]-Xm-Im-cym-ebw 27
cq]-Xm Zn\w 30
n\m≥kv Hmokv 32
Bishop's Engagements 36
From the Bishop's Diary 36
St. John's Medical College, Bangalore 37
manen A∏-Ã-te‰v 40
skan-\mcn hntijw 43
hnizm-k-]-cn-io-e\w 45
aZ¿ sXtck ]okv tlmw 45
kmaqly tkh-\-cwKw 47
kotdm-a-e-_m¿ amXr-thZn 48
\ho-I-c-W-ap-t∂‰w 48
Fkv.-Fw.-B¿.-kn. 49
sNdp]pjv] anj≥ eoKv 50
ImØ-enIv bqØv aqhvsa‚v 52
St. Joseph's School 53
kmt¥mw Intb-j≥kv 53
]mÃ-d¬ Iukn¬54
02
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
3
Pope Francis
Tweets
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
2
Fr. AbhilashVadakeolickal SDV
Fr. Geo Kunnathuparambil
Fr. JinojPalathadathil
Mgr. George Nazrikuzhi
Fr. Joby Thekkinedath
Fr. VarghesePuthanangadi
Fest
al G
reeti
ngs
Pope Francis @Pontifex Mar 18
The greater the sin, the greater the love that must be shown by the Church to
those who repent.
Pope Francis @Pontifex Mar 19
I am beginning a new journey, on Instagram, to walk with you along the path of
mercy and the tenderness of God.
Pope Francis @Pontifex Mar 20
Let us come to Him and let us not be afraid! Let us come to Him and say from the
depths of our hearts: “Jesus, I trust in You!”
Pope Francis @Pontifex Mar 21
Let us take our Christian calling seriously and commit to live as believers.
Prot. No. 0263/2015
taP¿ B¿®v _nj∏ns‚ k¿°pe¿
2016 P\phcn 7 apX¬ 12 hsc Im°\mSv au≠v sk‚v
tXmakv kmtIµØn¬ ktΩfn® kotdm ae-_m¿ km saXm∑mcpsS 24maXv kn\Uns‚
Circular of the Major Archbishop after the XXIV Synod of the Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church, Session 1, held
from 7 to 12 January 2016 in the Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount St Thomas,
Kakkanad.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ,
After the inauguration of the Jubilee Year of Mercy in the Universal Church and the opening of the Holy Door of Mercy in our Cathedrals and other designated churches, all the bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church gathered together for the Synod in the month of January. The Synod observed that we should be able to live as witnesses of the Merciful Father in the contemporary world and to experience mercy in all the spheres of our lives. Mercy should not be confined to the Social Apostolate of the Church. From a personal experience of mercy, it should become a life witness. Door of mercy and reconciliation should be opened always for everyone. Such acts of mercy should be organized through the cooperation of all sections of the people of God. The Year of Mercy is the time to practice the fourteen corporal and spiritual works of mercy, about which we learned in our catechism classes. Pope Francis has exhorted us to make the Lenten Season of this Year of Mercy, a time of personal conversion. Keeping this exhortation in mind, every eparchy is requested to organize an initiative called “24 Hours for the Lord”. This is also a reminder of the penitential service and the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation during the season of Lent. I hope that all of you would make every effort to receive the plenary indulgence in this year of mercy by making pilgrimages to those Cathedrals and other designated Churches where the Holy Door of Mercy is kept opened.
Circular of the Major Archbishop after the XXIV Synod of the Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church, Session 1, held
from 7 to 12 January 2016 in the Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount St Thomas,
Kakkanad.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ,
After the inauguration of the Jubilee Year of Mercy in the Universal Church and the opening of the Holy Door of Mercy in our Cathedrals and other designated churches, all the bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church gathered together for the Synod in the month of January. The Synod observed that we should be able to live as witnesses of the Merciful Father in the contemporary world and to experience mercy in all the spheres of our lives. Mercy should not be confined to the Social Apostolate of the Church. From a personal experience of mercy, it should become a life witness. Door of mercy and reconciliation should be opened always for everyone. Such acts of mercy should be organized through the cooperation of all sections of the people of God. The Year of Mercy is the time to practice the fourteen corporal and spiritual works of mercy, about which we learned in our catechism classes. Pope Francis has exhorted us to make the Lenten Season of this Year of Mercy, a time of personal conversion. Keeping this exhortation in mind, every eparchy is requested to organize an initiative called “24 Hours for the Lord”. This is also a reminder of the penitential service and the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation during the season of Lent. I hope that all of you would make every effort to receive the plenary indulgence in this year of mercy by making pilgrimages to those Cathedrals and other designated Churches where the Holy Door of Mercy is kept opened.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
8
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
9
In the light of the Synod of Bishops in Rome on Family, the Syro-Malabar Bishops' Synod suggested that our families should be equipped to face the challenges of the modern world. The causes for the ruptures in relationship in families and their solutions should be analyzed in the pastoral context. Priests and the Consecrated Persons should take special care to train married people to face the new challenges of family life. The training programmes offered by the Church, before and after marriage, have a big influence on the spiritual and moral growth of the family. Family members should strive to respect the elderly and take care of their physical and spiritual health. Simplification of the procedures in the marriage tribunals manifests the special concern of the Holy Father for the families in the Year of Mercy. The Synod discussed this topic and observed that the reformation of the law would help to accelerate the process of nullity of marriages. At the same time, the Synod clarified that this does not intend to bring down the importance of the sacramental and divine characteristics of married life.
The problems faced by the farmers and the uncertainties in the field of education were analyzed by the Fathers of the Synod with much anxiety. The Synod appealed to the authorities concerned to take a compassionate approach towards solving the burning issues of farmers producing rubber, cardamom, paddy, and milk products. The aftermath of Kasthurirangan report and the problems of the ecologically sensitive areas were discussed in detail by the Fathers of the Synod. The Synod requested the government to keep up the promises it has made in the fields of agriculture and education.
The change that is being brought about in the liquor policy in Kerala is commendable. Catholic Congress (AKCC) is capable of ensuring the participation of people's movements on similar social issues and creating greater awareness among the people regarding the same. I appeal to all of you to wholeheartedly support this
association. I am glad to note with satisfaction that the evangelization mission of the Church is carried out very effectively. I take this opportunity to thank you for the interest and the generous contribution you made for organizing funds for the Association of Syro-Malabar Supporters of the Mission (ASSM). I believe that you are informed of the various action plans being implemented for the pastoral care of the Syro-Malabar migrants in India under the leadership of Bishop Raphael Thattil. I am happy to inform you that an office of the Apostolic Visitator is set up in Nagpur for this purpose. I would like to remind you to support earnestly the efforts of the Apostolic Visitator for our migrants. It is my earnest desire to make the pastoral care of migrants more efficient and ecclesiastically participative. By the erection of an exarchate in Canada and the extension of the territory of the eparchy of Mandya, there has been a substantial growth in this area of pastoral concern. In order to evaluate the evangelization mission of the Church and to plan out new ventures of evangelization ministry, it has been decided to organize seminars on 'Mission Ad Gentes Today' in the southern (Vadavathoor), central (Kakkanad) and northern (Thalassery) regions of Kerala. Discussions are going on to improve the pastoral care for the faithful in Gulf region. The reports of my visit and the visit of the Synodal Delegation to Abu Dhabi were presented in the Synod.
Liturgy is the celebration of our Faith received from our forefathers by tradition. The Synod has initiated a process of revision of the Taksa of our Holy Qurbana to adapt it to our present times. The revision process will be carried out in the context of the unique theological traditions, spirituality and the administrative and canonical structures of our Church, as envisioned by the Vatican Council II. Since all the prayers of the Holy Qurbana in the original text are to be preserved in the prose form, we can also bring out its musical nature by chanting the
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
8
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
9
In the light of the Synod of Bishops in Rome on Family, the Syro-Malabar Bishops' Synod suggested that our families should be equipped to face the challenges of the modern world. The causes for the ruptures in relationship in families and their solutions should be analyzed in the pastoral context. Priests and the Consecrated Persons should take special care to train married people to face the new challenges of family life. The training programmes offered by the Church, before and after marriage, have a big influence on the spiritual and moral growth of the family. Family members should strive to respect the elderly and take care of their physical and spiritual health. Simplification of the procedures in the marriage tribunals manifests the special concern of the Holy Father for the families in the Year of Mercy. The Synod discussed this topic and observed that the reformation of the law would help to accelerate the process of nullity of marriages. At the same time, the Synod clarified that this does not intend to bring down the importance of the sacramental and divine characteristics of married life.
The problems faced by the farmers and the uncertainties in the field of education were analyzed by the Fathers of the Synod with much anxiety. The Synod appealed to the authorities concerned to take a compassionate approach towards solving the burning issues of farmers producing rubber, cardamom, paddy, and milk products. The aftermath of Kasthurirangan report and the problems of the ecologically sensitive areas were discussed in detail by the Fathers of the Synod. The Synod requested the government to keep up the promises it has made in the fields of agriculture and education.
The change that is being brought about in the liquor policy in Kerala is commendable. Catholic Congress (AKCC) is capable of ensuring the participation of people's movements on similar social issues and creating greater awareness among the people regarding the same. I appeal to all of you to wholeheartedly support this
association. I am glad to note with satisfaction that the evangelization mission of the Church is carried out very effectively. I take this opportunity to thank you for the interest and the generous contribution you made for organizing funds for the Association of Syro-Malabar Supporters of the Mission (ASSM). I believe that you are informed of the various action plans being implemented for the pastoral care of the Syro-Malabar migrants in India under the leadership of Bishop Raphael Thattil. I am happy to inform you that an office of the Apostolic Visitator is set up in Nagpur for this purpose. I would like to remind you to support earnestly the efforts of the Apostolic Visitator for our migrants. It is my earnest desire to make the pastoral care of migrants more efficient and ecclesiastically participative. By the erection of an exarchate in Canada and the extension of the territory of the eparchy of Mandya, there has been a substantial growth in this area of pastoral concern. In order to evaluate the evangelization mission of the Church and to plan out new ventures of evangelization ministry, it has been decided to organize seminars on 'Mission Ad Gentes Today' in the southern (Vadavathoor), central (Kakkanad) and northern (Thalassery) regions of Kerala. Discussions are going on to improve the pastoral care for the faithful in Gulf region. The reports of my visit and the visit of the Synodal Delegation to Abu Dhabi were presented in the Synod.
Liturgy is the celebration of our Faith received from our forefathers by tradition. The Synod has initiated a process of revision of the Taksa of our Holy Qurbana to adapt it to our present times. The revision process will be carried out in the context of the unique theological traditions, spirituality and the administrative and canonical structures of our Church, as envisioned by the Vatican Council II. Since all the prayers of the Holy Qurbana in the original text are to be preserved in the prose form, we can also bring out its musical nature by chanting the
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
10
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
11
prayers. In this regard, as an experiment, certain tunes for chanting the liturgical prayers were introduced in the Synod. Synod approved the textbook for preparing children for the solemn reception of Holy Communion and First Confession. I trust that all the parishes of our Church would make use of this textbook for the preparation of children for the reception of these sacraments. The details of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly to be held in August this year were presented in the Synod. The Synod approved the lineamenta of the Assembly. The theme of the Assembly is, “Response of the Church to the Challenges of Today” with the specification, 'Simplicity in Life, Witness in Family and Mission of the Migrants'. I hope that this document would be discussed and studied in detail in all the eparchies of our Church. On the occasion of the Assembly, we will also be
thinaugurating the celebrations of the 25 anniversary of the elevation of our Church to the Major Archiepiscopal status.
After lively and fruitful discussions and decisions, the Synod was concluded on 12 January, at 6.00 pm. I request your valuable prayers and support so that the endeavors of the synod be fruitful for the growth and good of our Church.
Yours cordially in Christ,
+George Cardinal AlencherryMajor Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church
Given from the Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad, on 29 February 2016.
N.B. The contents of this circular shall be made known to the Priests, Religious and Laity of all the Archeparchies/Eparchies of Syro-Malabar Church.
NDFINAL STATEMENT OF THE 32 PLENARY ASSEMBLY OF
THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE OF INDIA ND(CBCI), HELD AT ST. JOHN'S, BANGALORE, FROM 2 TO
TH9 MARCH, 2016, WITH THE MAIN THEME
“RESPONSE OF THE CHURCH IN INDIA TO THE PRESENT
DAY CHALLENGES”
1.0. PREAMBLE
The Second Vatican Council declared in the Pastoral Constitution of the Church in the Modern World: “The joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ.” (Gaudium et Spes, no. 1). Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God (Mark 1: 14-15) and called upon His followers to pray and work (Matthew 6: 9-13) for the realization of the Kingdom of God. As sacrament of salvation, the Church is a sign and instrument of communion with God and with humanity (Lumen Gentium, no. 1:1). In this YEAR OF MERCY, in communion with the Universal Church, let us be channels of God's mercy to one and all, especially the poor, the deprived, the sick and suffering. And thus, making our contribution to our beloved nation.
As leaders of the Church, 182 Bishops from 170 Dioceses of the Church in India are gathered at St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, from 02 to 09 March 2016 to deliberate on “The Response of the Church in India to the Present Day Challenges” during
ndthe 32 Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI). The Church in India is a vibrant community making significant contribution to nation building through education, social development, health care and service, especially to the poor. The CBCI appreciates the spirit of understanding and collaboration among the three Sui Iuris Churches. The composite culture of India has noble values of religiosity, peace, simplicity and tolerance as lived by Mahatma Gandhi and various Indian sages. We, however, express our sorrow over the killing of innocent people by extremists in India and in various parts of
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
10
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
11
prayers. In this regard, as an experiment, certain tunes for chanting the liturgical prayers were introduced in the Synod. Synod approved the textbook for preparing children for the solemn reception of Holy Communion and First Confession. I trust that all the parishes of our Church would make use of this textbook for the preparation of children for the reception of these sacraments. The details of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly to be held in August this year were presented in the Synod. The Synod approved the lineamenta of the Assembly. The theme of the Assembly is, “Response of the Church to the Challenges of Today” with the specification, 'Simplicity in Life, Witness in Family and Mission of the Migrants'. I hope that this document would be discussed and studied in detail in all the eparchies of our Church. On the occasion of the Assembly, we will also be
thinaugurating the celebrations of the 25 anniversary of the elevation of our Church to the Major Archiepiscopal status.
After lively and fruitful discussions and decisions, the Synod was concluded on 12 January, at 6.00 pm. I request your valuable prayers and support so that the endeavors of the synod be fruitful for the growth and good of our Church.
Yours cordially in Christ,
+George Cardinal AlencherryMajor Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church
Given from the Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad, on 29 February 2016.
N.B. The contents of this circular shall be made known to the Priests, Religious and Laity of all the Archeparchies/Eparchies of Syro-Malabar Church.
NDFINAL STATEMENT OF THE 32 PLENARY ASSEMBLY OF
THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE OF INDIA ND(CBCI), HELD AT ST. JOHN'S, BANGALORE, FROM 2 TO
TH9 MARCH, 2016, WITH THE MAIN THEME
“RESPONSE OF THE CHURCH IN INDIA TO THE PRESENT
DAY CHALLENGES”
1.0. PREAMBLE
The Second Vatican Council declared in the Pastoral Constitution of the Church in the Modern World: “The joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ.” (Gaudium et Spes, no. 1). Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God (Mark 1: 14-15) and called upon His followers to pray and work (Matthew 6: 9-13) for the realization of the Kingdom of God. As sacrament of salvation, the Church is a sign and instrument of communion with God and with humanity (Lumen Gentium, no. 1:1). In this YEAR OF MERCY, in communion with the Universal Church, let us be channels of God's mercy to one and all, especially the poor, the deprived, the sick and suffering. And thus, making our contribution to our beloved nation.
As leaders of the Church, 182 Bishops from 170 Dioceses of the Church in India are gathered at St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, from 02 to 09 March 2016 to deliberate on “The Response of the Church in India to the Present Day Challenges” during
ndthe 32 Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI). The Church in India is a vibrant community making significant contribution to nation building through education, social development, health care and service, especially to the poor. The CBCI appreciates the spirit of understanding and collaboration among the three Sui Iuris Churches. The composite culture of India has noble values of religiosity, peace, simplicity and tolerance as lived by Mahatma Gandhi and various Indian sages. We, however, express our sorrow over the killing of innocent people by extremists in India and in various parts of
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
13
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
12
the world. We are shocked by the recent killing of the nuns of the Missionaries of Charity and their collaborators in Yemen.
The Bishops have resolved to respond to the challenges facing the Church in India, identifying the following:
2.0. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE CHURCH AND WITHIN THE COUNTRY2.1. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE CHURCH
i. Declining family values – tensions and break ups in families, an increasing number of divorces, abortions and a lack of understanding of marriage as a sacrament.
ii. Growing materialism, consumerism and addiction to social media, due to decline of spiritual and moral values.
iii. Growing indifference and lack of commitment to the Christian vocation.
iv. Insensitivity regarding gender, caste, language, creed, status and region.
v. Lack of commitment to Ecumenical unityvi. Excessive preoccupation with institutionalization.vii. Insufficient zeal and fear of proclaiming Christ as unique Saviour. viii. Large scale migration of families affecting community life.
2.2. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE COUNTRYi. Large scale poverty and growing gap between the rich and the poorii. Corruption, illiteracy, child labour, increasing unemployment,
growing addiction to alcohol and drugs.iii. Atheistic Secularism (and practical atheism) iv. Narrow unitary cultural Nationalismv. Sensationalism and dictatorship of a section of the media.vi. Systematic concerted effort to manipulate the education system vii. Opposition to the fundamental human right of every person to
convert. viii. Widespread intolerance, religious fanaticism and
fundamentalism, attacks and atrocities against intellectuals, social activists, religious personnel and institutions.
ix. Violation of Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution, esp. minority rights
x. Growing criminalization and terrorism.
xi. Denial of SC status to Christian Dalits.
3.0. Restating the Vision and Mission
3.1. VISION: As a community of Christ's disciples, the Church is at the service of the Kingdom of God. As an inclusive and welcoming community, the Church which is a continued presence of Christ, actualizes the values of love, justice, equality, mercy and peace. As light, salt and leaven of society, she lives in total solidarity with people, especially the poor.
3.2. MISSION: The Church is called to lead people to an encounter with Christ, practising the Gospel values and living for the wellbeing of people without fear and discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, gender, language, culture or status in society.
4.0. The Response of the Church in India to the Present Day Challenges
The following areas were chosen by the Bishops for review and for an appropriate response: i) Family Life Today ii) Renewal of Consecrated Life iii) The Lay Faithful and the Mission of the Church iv) Ecumenism v) Inter-religious Dialogue vi) The Education Apostolate and vii) Care of the Earth, our Common Home and viii) A New Way of Being Church for an effective response
4.1. FAMILY LIFE
The well-being of the Church and the society at large are intimately linked with the nurturing of the family. It is the lifeline of the Church and society (Instrumentum Laboris, nos. 32, 38). However, “married love is too often dishonoured by selfishness, hedonism and unlawful contraceptive practices” (Gaudium et Spes, no. 47). The two recent Synods on the Family, held in Rome, have drawn attention to the urgency of providing sustained pastoral care to families. Proposals:1. Frequent visits of Parish Priests to the families2. Organizing Marriage Encounter and Marriage Enrichment
Programmes.3. Educating families to live in unity and to reach out to others.4. Responding to the challenges, the media and society pose for family
life. e.g. prolife issues, issues in human sexuality, pornography and marital fidelity.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
13
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
12
the world. We are shocked by the recent killing of the nuns of the Missionaries of Charity and their collaborators in Yemen.
The Bishops have resolved to respond to the challenges facing the Church in India, identifying the following:
2.0. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE CHURCH AND WITHIN THE COUNTRY2.1. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE CHURCH
i. Declining family values – tensions and break ups in families, an increasing number of divorces, abortions and a lack of understanding of marriage as a sacrament.
ii. Growing materialism, consumerism and addiction to social media, due to decline of spiritual and moral values.
iii. Growing indifference and lack of commitment to the Christian vocation.
iv. Insensitivity regarding gender, caste, language, creed, status and region.
v. Lack of commitment to Ecumenical unityvi. Excessive preoccupation with institutionalization.vii. Insufficient zeal and fear of proclaiming Christ as unique Saviour. viii. Large scale migration of families affecting community life.
2.2. CHALLENGES WITHIN THE COUNTRYi. Large scale poverty and growing gap between the rich and the poorii. Corruption, illiteracy, child labour, increasing unemployment,
growing addiction to alcohol and drugs.iii. Atheistic Secularism (and practical atheism) iv. Narrow unitary cultural Nationalismv. Sensationalism and dictatorship of a section of the media.vi. Systematic concerted effort to manipulate the education system vii. Opposition to the fundamental human right of every person to
convert. viii. Widespread intolerance, religious fanaticism and
fundamentalism, attacks and atrocities against intellectuals, social activists, religious personnel and institutions.
ix. Violation of Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution, esp. minority rights
x. Growing criminalization and terrorism.
xi. Denial of SC status to Christian Dalits.
3.0. Restating the Vision and Mission
3.1. VISION: As a community of Christ's disciples, the Church is at the service of the Kingdom of God. As an inclusive and welcoming community, the Church which is a continued presence of Christ, actualizes the values of love, justice, equality, mercy and peace. As light, salt and leaven of society, she lives in total solidarity with people, especially the poor.
3.2. MISSION: The Church is called to lead people to an encounter with Christ, practising the Gospel values and living for the wellbeing of people without fear and discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, gender, language, culture or status in society.
4.0. The Response of the Church in India to the Present Day Challenges
The following areas were chosen by the Bishops for review and for an appropriate response: i) Family Life Today ii) Renewal of Consecrated Life iii) The Lay Faithful and the Mission of the Church iv) Ecumenism v) Inter-religious Dialogue vi) The Education Apostolate and vii) Care of the Earth, our Common Home and viii) A New Way of Being Church for an effective response
4.1. FAMILY LIFE
The well-being of the Church and the society at large are intimately linked with the nurturing of the family. It is the lifeline of the Church and society (Instrumentum Laboris, nos. 32, 38). However, “married love is too often dishonoured by selfishness, hedonism and unlawful contraceptive practices” (Gaudium et Spes, no. 47). The two recent Synods on the Family, held in Rome, have drawn attention to the urgency of providing sustained pastoral care to families. Proposals:1. Frequent visits of Parish Priests to the families2. Organizing Marriage Encounter and Marriage Enrichment
Programmes.3. Educating families to live in unity and to reach out to others.4. Responding to the challenges, the media and society pose for family
life. e.g. prolife issues, issues in human sexuality, pornography and marital fidelity.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
14
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
15
5. Promoting Family counselling centres and Diocesan Family Commissions, training seminarians and priests to be family counsellors, accompanying them constantly.
6. Promoting family values, family prayer, family meals, family outings and use of bible sharing methods through SCC's.
7. Creating facilities for care of the elderly, respecting them and learning from them.
4.2. RENEWAL OF CONSECRATED PERSONS
The Catholic Church in India is blessed with over one hundred and twenty five thousand religious priests, religious brothers and religious sisters, who serve the Church significantly through a large network of educational, health care and social service institutions. Even as we greatly appreciate the selfless and dedicated life of the consecrated persons, in recent times, there is a decrease in the number of candidates opting for consecrated life. A fresh, creative and a self-critical approach is needed in order to make this gift of God more attractive and relevant. While appreciating the generous commitment of thousands of clergy who are witnessing the mercy of God through parish community and their attached apostolate, we are of the opinion that priestly life needs a thorough renewal and updating.
1. Rediscovering the Founder's charism and rededicating oneself to pastoral ministry with a clear shift of emphasis from maintenance to mission.
2. Consecrated way of life should be a combination of contemplation and active service, as recommended by St. John Paul II.
3. Maintaining the quality of Consecrated life by careful selection of candidates and Christ centred formation and commitment to the poor.
4. Participating in the mission of the Church through greater collaboration with the Bishop and integration into the pastoral life of the parish community.
4.3. THE LAY FAITHFUL AND THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
The lay faithful have a distinct role in the spreading of the Gospel, which the Church really needs them to carry out with the authority, creativity, and power that the Holy Spirit has given them in Baptism. Lumen
Proposals:
Gentium no. 31 states: the laity, by their very vocation, seek the kingdom of God by engaging in temporal affairs and by ordering them according to the plan of God. They live in the world, that is, in each and in all of the secular professions and occupations. … They are called there by God that by exercising their proper function and led by the spirit of the Gospel they may work for the sanctification of the world from within as a leaven”. he laity likewise share in the priestly, prophetic, and royal office of Christ (Apostolicam Actuositatem, no. 2).
Proposals:
1. Accepting the dignity, role and importance of the role of the lay faithful in the Church
2. Encouraging the laity to involve themselves in the Church and temporal order, through the Small Christian Communities (SCC's).
3. Undertaking faith formation and professional training programmes.4. Encouraging our laity to take up important leadership positions in the
Parliament, Assemblies, Civil Services, Entrepreneurship in business and in the judiciary.
5. Recognizing the dignity of labour by providing just wages and social security.
6. Helping and encouraging lay faithful by providing them with scholarships and facilities and promoting lay participation in the life and mission of the Church.
4.3.1. THE MARGINALIZED AND WEAKER SECTIONS WITHIN THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY (VIZ. THE DALITS, TRIBALS, DIFFERENTLY ABLED and WOMEN)
The Church commits herself to the liberation of the weaker sections, like tribals, women and dalits. She wants to reach out more to the unorganized groups like fisher-flock, farmers, migrants, domestic workers, victims of trafficking, through advocacy and networking with NGO's and other like-minded groups and individuals, dedicated to the cause of the poor.
Proposals:1. Realizing that caste system is a reality in India, which has also crept
in certain parts of the Church, we need to pursue with the Government that Christian Dalits be treated on par with the Hindu Dalits.
“
T
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
14
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
15
5. Promoting Family counselling centres and Diocesan Family Commissions, training seminarians and priests to be family counsellors, accompanying them constantly.
6. Promoting family values, family prayer, family meals, family outings and use of bible sharing methods through SCC's.
7. Creating facilities for care of the elderly, respecting them and learning from them.
4.2. RENEWAL OF CONSECRATED PERSONS
The Catholic Church in India is blessed with over one hundred and twenty five thousand religious priests, religious brothers and religious sisters, who serve the Church significantly through a large network of educational, health care and social service institutions. Even as we greatly appreciate the selfless and dedicated life of the consecrated persons, in recent times, there is a decrease in the number of candidates opting for consecrated life. A fresh, creative and a self-critical approach is needed in order to make this gift of God more attractive and relevant. While appreciating the generous commitment of thousands of clergy who are witnessing the mercy of God through parish community and their attached apostolate, we are of the opinion that priestly life needs a thorough renewal and updating.
1. Rediscovering the Founder's charism and rededicating oneself to pastoral ministry with a clear shift of emphasis from maintenance to mission.
2. Consecrated way of life should be a combination of contemplation and active service, as recommended by St. John Paul II.
3. Maintaining the quality of Consecrated life by careful selection of candidates and Christ centred formation and commitment to the poor.
4. Participating in the mission of the Church through greater collaboration with the Bishop and integration into the pastoral life of the parish community.
4.3. THE LAY FAITHFUL AND THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
The lay faithful have a distinct role in the spreading of the Gospel, which the Church really needs them to carry out with the authority, creativity, and power that the Holy Spirit has given them in Baptism. Lumen
Proposals:
Gentium no. 31 states: the laity, by their very vocation, seek the kingdom of God by engaging in temporal affairs and by ordering them according to the plan of God. They live in the world, that is, in each and in all of the secular professions and occupations. … They are called there by God that by exercising their proper function and led by the spirit of the Gospel they may work for the sanctification of the world from within as a leaven”. he laity likewise share in the priestly, prophetic, and royal office of Christ (Apostolicam Actuositatem, no. 2).
Proposals:
1. Accepting the dignity, role and importance of the role of the lay faithful in the Church
2. Encouraging the laity to involve themselves in the Church and temporal order, through the Small Christian Communities (SCC's).
3. Undertaking faith formation and professional training programmes.4. Encouraging our laity to take up important leadership positions in the
Parliament, Assemblies, Civil Services, Entrepreneurship in business and in the judiciary.
5. Recognizing the dignity of labour by providing just wages and social security.
6. Helping and encouraging lay faithful by providing them with scholarships and facilities and promoting lay participation in the life and mission of the Church.
4.3.1. THE MARGINALIZED AND WEAKER SECTIONS WITHIN THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY (VIZ. THE DALITS, TRIBALS, DIFFERENTLY ABLED and WOMEN)
The Church commits herself to the liberation of the weaker sections, like tribals, women and dalits. She wants to reach out more to the unorganized groups like fisher-flock, farmers, migrants, domestic workers, victims of trafficking, through advocacy and networking with NGO's and other like-minded groups and individuals, dedicated to the cause of the poor.
Proposals:1. Realizing that caste system is a reality in India, which has also crept
in certain parts of the Church, we need to pursue with the Government that Christian Dalits be treated on par with the Hindu Dalits.
“
T
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
17
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
16
2. Introducing positive measures to integrate Christians of Dalit origin along with others in the Church through education and employment.
3. Strengthening advocacy on the socio-political, economic and cultural rights of Tribals, enshrined in the Constitution of India.
4. Fostering advocacy and networking to address the issues of land alienation, induced displacement, human trafficking and migration.
5. Showing sensitivity to the differently abled by providing facilities that suit their needs.
6. Alleviating the plight of the farmers in distress and preventing suicide of our farmers.
7. Fostering gender equity and providing a greater role of women in our collaborative structures.
8. Establishing/ Revitalizing Grievance Cells to address women's issues to protect their rights.
4.3.2. YOUTH APOSTOLATE:
Recognizing that India is predominantly young, so is the Church in India, there is an urgent need to prepare tomorrow's leaders today.
Proposals:1. Promoting youth apostolate at all levels, such as the Jesus Youth,
YCS/YSM, ICYM and AICUF and Youth Associations of the Sui Iuris Churches (SMYM and MCYM) in all parishes and institutions.
2. Encouraging faith formation for youth through YOUCAT, DOCAT and Youth Bible, fostering ethical and moral values, enhancing critical thinking and problem solving.
3. Promoting young talents for leadership roles in the Church and society, particularly in political life and civil service.
4.4.1. ECUMENISM
Our common faith in God through Baptism is the foundation for us to overcome divisions among Christians and to promote mutual relations, friendship and collaboration. “The restoration of unity among all Christians is one of the principal concerns of the Second Vatican Council. Christ the Lord founded one Church and one Church only…However, many Christians…differ in mind and go their different ways, as if Christ Himself were divided” (Unitatis Redintegratio, no. 1). Therefore, the need of the hour is to take initiatives to foster better
cooperation among Christians through dialogue and common ecumenical services.
Proposals:1. Creating ecumenical bodies such as Inter-Church Councils and
United Christian Groups (at Regional and National Level)2. Dialoguing with ecumenical groups to study social and legal issues
(such as environmental issues human rights and legal issues).3. Organizing of special programmes for training seminarians, priests,
religious and laity in Ecumenism.4. Reaching out and dialoguing with fundamentalist groups and sects. 5. Promoting Spiritual Ecumenism - common prayers, using common
ecumenical bibles and sharing spiritual riches.
4.4.2. INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE:
Inter-religious dialogue has become an urgent priority today. The goal of dialogue is to establish friendship, peace and harmony and to share spiritual and moral values and experiences in a spirit of truth and love. Redemptoris Missio clearly states that “inter-religious dialogue is part of the Church's evangelizing mission”. “In the light of the economy of salvation, the Church sees no conflict between proclaiming Christ and engaging in interreligious dialogue… Each member of the faithful and all Christian communities are called to practice dialogue. Dialogue is a path toward the kingdom” (Redemptoris Missio, no. 56, 57).
Proposals:1. Introducing Formation Programmes on inter-religious dialogue in
our institutions, seminaries and formation houses. 2. Including Inter-religious dialogue as a subject in school catechism
classes. 3. Promoting Inter-religious dialogue through SCC's.4. Respecting the sentiments of the people of other religions. 5. Using Catholic Guilds and other Associations to promote dialogue
with businessmen, politicians, journalists.6. Organizing training programmes for promoting justice and peace.7. Promoting religious harmony and National Integration through a
proactive and conciliatory role.8. Breaking the divisive and intolerant walls of caste, language and
ethnicity.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
17
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
16
2. Introducing positive measures to integrate Christians of Dalit origin along with others in the Church through education and employment.
3. Strengthening advocacy on the socio-political, economic and cultural rights of Tribals, enshrined in the Constitution of India.
4. Fostering advocacy and networking to address the issues of land alienation, induced displacement, human trafficking and migration.
5. Showing sensitivity to the differently abled by providing facilities that suit their needs.
6. Alleviating the plight of the farmers in distress and preventing suicide of our farmers.
7. Fostering gender equity and providing a greater role of women in our collaborative structures.
8. Establishing/ Revitalizing Grievance Cells to address women's issues to protect their rights.
4.3.2. YOUTH APOSTOLATE:
Recognizing that India is predominantly young, so is the Church in India, there is an urgent need to prepare tomorrow's leaders today.
Proposals:1. Promoting youth apostolate at all levels, such as the Jesus Youth,
YCS/YSM, ICYM and AICUF and Youth Associations of the Sui Iuris Churches (SMYM and MCYM) in all parishes and institutions.
2. Encouraging faith formation for youth through YOUCAT, DOCAT and Youth Bible, fostering ethical and moral values, enhancing critical thinking and problem solving.
3. Promoting young talents for leadership roles in the Church and society, particularly in political life and civil service.
4.4.1. ECUMENISM
Our common faith in God through Baptism is the foundation for us to overcome divisions among Christians and to promote mutual relations, friendship and collaboration. “The restoration of unity among all Christians is one of the principal concerns of the Second Vatican Council. Christ the Lord founded one Church and one Church only…However, many Christians…differ in mind and go their different ways, as if Christ Himself were divided” (Unitatis Redintegratio, no. 1). Therefore, the need of the hour is to take initiatives to foster better
cooperation among Christians through dialogue and common ecumenical services.
Proposals:1. Creating ecumenical bodies such as Inter-Church Councils and
United Christian Groups (at Regional and National Level)2. Dialoguing with ecumenical groups to study social and legal issues
(such as environmental issues human rights and legal issues).3. Organizing of special programmes for training seminarians, priests,
religious and laity in Ecumenism.4. Reaching out and dialoguing with fundamentalist groups and sects. 5. Promoting Spiritual Ecumenism - common prayers, using common
ecumenical bibles and sharing spiritual riches.
4.4.2. INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE:
Inter-religious dialogue has become an urgent priority today. The goal of dialogue is to establish friendship, peace and harmony and to share spiritual and moral values and experiences in a spirit of truth and love. Redemptoris Missio clearly states that “inter-religious dialogue is part of the Church's evangelizing mission”. “In the light of the economy of salvation, the Church sees no conflict between proclaiming Christ and engaging in interreligious dialogue… Each member of the faithful and all Christian communities are called to practice dialogue. Dialogue is a path toward the kingdom” (Redemptoris Missio, no. 56, 57).
Proposals:1. Introducing Formation Programmes on inter-religious dialogue in
our institutions, seminaries and formation houses. 2. Including Inter-religious dialogue as a subject in school catechism
classes. 3. Promoting Inter-religious dialogue through SCC's.4. Respecting the sentiments of the people of other religions. 5. Using Catholic Guilds and other Associations to promote dialogue
with businessmen, politicians, journalists.6. Organizing training programmes for promoting justice and peace.7. Promoting religious harmony and National Integration through a
proactive and conciliatory role.8. Breaking the divisive and intolerant walls of caste, language and
ethnicity.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
19
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
18
4.5. THE EDUCATION APOSTOLATE
Educational Institutions need to rise above the maintenance mode to impart holistic education with a heart for the poor and the marginalized. The CBCI Education Policy has clearly stated: “The Catholic educational institutions are to provide inclusive and holistic education especially for the marginalized and girls enabling them to live life to the full and responsibly, thus transforming the individual and society” (AICEP 2007).
Proposals:1. Having recourse to legal action when Constitutional rights are
violated and the appointment/approval of staff, issue of Minority certificate, grant in aid, scholarships and other support systems are denied.
2. Promoting Faith formation of Christian students and value education, reaching out to those living in “social and geographical periphery” and providing quality education in the slums and rural areas.
3. Recognizing the need to positively promote higher education institutions, to form persons of character and conviction, capable of delivering quality leadership and administrative service, upholding the constitutional values and the socialistic, secular and democratic character of our country (National Education Coordinators' Meet, 18 December 2015).
4. Networking with local, district and state leaders and administrators and befriending people of the neighbourhood and all people of good will to ensure administrative autonomy, proper to the Minority institutions.
5. Providing educational opportunities, especially to the socially backward and girl children, and ensuring administrative transparency, financial accountability and participatory management.
4.6. CARE OF THE EARTH, OUR COMMON HOME
The ruthless exploitation of the earth's resources has adverse effects on humanity. Pope Francis affirmed: “As stewards of God's creation, we are called to make the earth a beautiful garden for the human family. When
we destroy our forests, ravage our soil and pollute our seas, we betray that noble calling” (Speech, Manila, Philippines, January 18, 2015). In this regard, we must go to the heart of the ecological degradation and advocate an education in ecological responsibility because “we are all really responsible for all”.
Proposals: 1. Every Diocese and Parish to draw up an Environment (Green)
Policy. 2. Organizing programmes for protecting the environment and
fostering love for nature.3. Encouraging use of solar energy, rain-water harvesting, and use of
bio-gas plants. 4. Promoting sustainable development through change of lifestyle
(reuse, reduce, recycle).5. Encouraging organic farming and say no to pesticides and plastics. 6. Facilitating Environmental Education and Ecological Conversion
4.7. A NEW WAY OF BEING CHURCH FOR AN EFFECTIVE RESPONSE
Both Blessed Mother Teresa and Pope Francis are exemplary models for living with such a vision and mission. Mother Teresa changed her routine way of living and made a radical decision for living her religious / consecrated life in a thoroughly new way. So also, the lifestyle of Pope Francis challenges us to be authentic in our Christian vocation, by freeing ourselves of traditional structures, institutionalisation and to break new ground, shedding the comforts and privileges of office and status, embodying the gracious mercifulness and love of Christ and bringing the joy of the Gospel to one and all. “…All of us are asked to obey his call (the Lord's) to go forth from our own comfort zones in order to reach all the “peripheries” in the light of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 20). We are also challenged and inspired by the exemplary life of the Saints of India, namely, St. Thomas the Apostle, St. Francis Xavier, St. Gonsalo Garcia, St. Alphonsa, St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, St. Euphrasia, St. Joseph Vaz, Blessed Mother Teresa, Blessed Devasahayam Pillai Blessed Maria Theresa Chiramel, Blessed Augustine Thevarparampil (Kunjachan), Servant of God, Father Constant Lievens and others.
,
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
19
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
18
4.5. THE EDUCATION APOSTOLATE
Educational Institutions need to rise above the maintenance mode to impart holistic education with a heart for the poor and the marginalized. The CBCI Education Policy has clearly stated: “The Catholic educational institutions are to provide inclusive and holistic education especially for the marginalized and girls enabling them to live life to the full and responsibly, thus transforming the individual and society” (AICEP 2007).
Proposals:1. Having recourse to legal action when Constitutional rights are
violated and the appointment/approval of staff, issue of Minority certificate, grant in aid, scholarships and other support systems are denied.
2. Promoting Faith formation of Christian students and value education, reaching out to those living in “social and geographical periphery” and providing quality education in the slums and rural areas.
3. Recognizing the need to positively promote higher education institutions, to form persons of character and conviction, capable of delivering quality leadership and administrative service, upholding the constitutional values and the socialistic, secular and democratic character of our country (National Education Coordinators' Meet, 18 December 2015).
4. Networking with local, district and state leaders and administrators and befriending people of the neighbourhood and all people of good will to ensure administrative autonomy, proper to the Minority institutions.
5. Providing educational opportunities, especially to the socially backward and girl children, and ensuring administrative transparency, financial accountability and participatory management.
4.6. CARE OF THE EARTH, OUR COMMON HOME
The ruthless exploitation of the earth's resources has adverse effects on humanity. Pope Francis affirmed: “As stewards of God's creation, we are called to make the earth a beautiful garden for the human family. When
we destroy our forests, ravage our soil and pollute our seas, we betray that noble calling” (Speech, Manila, Philippines, January 18, 2015). In this regard, we must go to the heart of the ecological degradation and advocate an education in ecological responsibility because “we are all really responsible for all”.
Proposals: 1. Every Diocese and Parish to draw up an Environment (Green)
Policy. 2. Organizing programmes for protecting the environment and
fostering love for nature.3. Encouraging use of solar energy, rain-water harvesting, and use of
bio-gas plants. 4. Promoting sustainable development through change of lifestyle
(reuse, reduce, recycle).5. Encouraging organic farming and say no to pesticides and plastics. 6. Facilitating Environmental Education and Ecological Conversion
4.7. A NEW WAY OF BEING CHURCH FOR AN EFFECTIVE RESPONSE
Both Blessed Mother Teresa and Pope Francis are exemplary models for living with such a vision and mission. Mother Teresa changed her routine way of living and made a radical decision for living her religious / consecrated life in a thoroughly new way. So also, the lifestyle of Pope Francis challenges us to be authentic in our Christian vocation, by freeing ourselves of traditional structures, institutionalisation and to break new ground, shedding the comforts and privileges of office and status, embodying the gracious mercifulness and love of Christ and bringing the joy of the Gospel to one and all. “…All of us are asked to obey his call (the Lord's) to go forth from our own comfort zones in order to reach all the “peripheries” in the light of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 20). We are also challenged and inspired by the exemplary life of the Saints of India, namely, St. Thomas the Apostle, St. Francis Xavier, St. Gonsalo Garcia, St. Alphonsa, St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, St. Euphrasia, St. Joseph Vaz, Blessed Mother Teresa, Blessed Devasahayam Pillai Blessed Maria Theresa Chiramel, Blessed Augustine Thevarparampil (Kunjachan), Servant of God, Father Constant Lievens and others.
,
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
20
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
21
4.7.1. BISHOPS AND PRIESTS:
Bishops and priests, while exercising their role as administrators, should be first and foremost, shepherds of the flock, available and service minded. Their lifestyle should be an example of simplicity and spirituality that can be an inspiration to everyone.
Proposals:
1. Shunning excessive institutionalization, clericalism and extravaganza.
2. Animating pastoral structures, such as Diocesan/Parish Pastoral Councils and Finance Committees, etc.
3. Adopting simple lifestyle, following the example of the Good Shepherd and opening our houses and our institutions to the poor.
4. Rediscovering the power of the Word of God and prayer
5. Making apostolates, such as healthcare, social development and education into agents of evangelisation.
6. Refashioning the formation of priests and religious, enabling them to respond to the challenges of our times with faith and courage.
7. Promoting transparency and accountability at all levels of Church's administration.
5.0. CONCLUSION:
As authentic citizens of the country, we repose our confidence in the democratic values and the Constitution of India. Trusting in God's grace, love and mercy, we march ahead to carry out our God-given mission, confident of the goodwill and support of our people everywhere. We appeal to all people of goodwill in India to join hands with us in solidarity to work for a better Church and a better society. May Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy and Star of Evangelization, who brought joy and hope to the world, guide us and help us to fulfil our mission.
09.03.2016 Sd/-
Bangalore Baselios Cardinal Cleemis
President, CBCI
Prot. No. 0191/2016 25 February 2016
DECREE OF CONVOCATIONThe XXIII Synod of Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church in its Second Session, held from 17 to 29 August 2015, decided to convene the fourth Major Archiepiscopal Assembly of this Church from 26 to 28 August 2016 at Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Kodakara, in the Eparchy of Irinjalakuda and to constitute a Committee of Bishops consisting of Bishop Pauly Kannookadan, Convener, Bishop Sebastian Adayanthrath and Bishop George Rajendran SDB, Members. Fr. Shaji Abraham Kochupurayil MCBS will be the Secretary. The theme of the Assembly, as decided by the same Synodal Session and later modified by the XXIV Synod, Session I, held from 07 to 12 January 2016 will be "The Response of the Church to the Challenges of Today" with the specification of 'Simplicity in Life, Witness in Family and Mission of the Migrants'.
The Central Organizing Committee of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly in its meeting held on 22 February 2016 proposed to begin the Assembly by the evening of 25th August 2016 so that all the themes could be discussed sufficiently in depth. This proposal was later communicated to all the Bishops of our Synod.
In conformity with the said decisions and presuming ratification of the change of date of the begining of the Assembly by the forthcoming Synodal Session in August, and in accordance with Article 4 ... 1 & 3 of the statutes of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly, I, George Cardinal Alencherry, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, hereby convoke the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly of the Syro-Malabar Church (2016), which will begin with the Holy Qurbana at 05.00 p.m. on Thursday 25 August and be concluded with Lunch at 1.00p.m. on Sunday 28 August 2016, at Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Kodakara
The Synod Fathers are hereby requested to make this known to the People of God entrusted to their care and to do all that is required for the success of the said Assembly.
Given at Kakkanad from the Major Archiepiscopal Curia of the Syro-Malabar Church at Mount St. Thomas on 25 February 2016.
George Cardinal AlencherryMajor ArchbishopSyro-Malabar Church
George Cardinal AlencherryMajor Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church
Bishops and priests, while exercising their role as administrators, should be first and foremost, shepherds of the flock, available and service minded. Their lifestyle should be an example of simplicity and spirituality that can be an inspiration to everyone.
Proposals:
1. Shunning excessive institutionalization, clericalism and extravaganza.
2. Animating pastoral structures, such as Diocesan/Parish Pastoral Councils and Finance Committees, etc.
3. Adopting simple lifestyle, following the example of the Good Shepherd and opening our houses and our institutions to the poor.
4. Rediscovering the power of the Word of God and prayer
5. Making apostolates, such as healthcare, social development and education into agents of evangelisation.
6. Refashioning the formation of priests and religious, enabling them to respond to the challenges of our times with faith and courage.
7. Promoting transparency and accountability at all levels of Church's administration.
5.0. CONCLUSION:
As authentic citizens of the country, we repose our confidence in the democratic values and the Constitution of India. Trusting in God's grace, love and mercy, we march ahead to carry out our God-given mission, confident of the goodwill and support of our people everywhere. We appeal to all people of goodwill in India to join hands with us in solidarity to work for a better Church and a better society. May Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy and Star of Evangelization, who brought joy and hope to the world, guide us and help us to fulfil our mission.
09.03.2016 Sd/-
Bangalore Baselios Cardinal Cleemis
President, CBCI
Prot. No. 0191/2016 25 February 2016
DECREE OF CONVOCATIONThe XXIII Synod of Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church in its Second Session, held from 17 to 29 August 2015, decided to convene the fourth Major Archiepiscopal Assembly of this Church from 26 to 28 August 2016 at Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Kodakara, in the Eparchy of Irinjalakuda and to constitute a Committee of Bishops consisting of Bishop Pauly Kannookadan, Convener, Bishop Sebastian Adayanthrath and Bishop George Rajendran SDB, Members. Fr. Shaji Abraham Kochupurayil MCBS will be the Secretary. The theme of the Assembly, as decided by the same Synodal Session and later modified by the XXIV Synod, Session I, held from 07 to 12 January 2016 will be "The Response of the Church to the Challenges of Today" with the specification of 'Simplicity in Life, Witness in Family and Mission of the Migrants'.
The Central Organizing Committee of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly in its meeting held on 22 February 2016 proposed to begin the Assembly by the evening of 25th August 2016 so that all the themes could be discussed sufficiently in depth. This proposal was later communicated to all the Bishops of our Synod.
In conformity with the said decisions and presuming ratification of the change of date of the begining of the Assembly by the forthcoming Synodal Session in August, and in accordance with Article 4 ... 1 & 3 of the statutes of the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly, I, George Cardinal Alencherry, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, hereby convoke the Major Archiepiscopal Assembly of the Syro-Malabar Church (2016), which will begin with the Holy Qurbana at 05.00 p.m. on Thursday 25 August and be concluded with Lunch at 1.00p.m. on Sunday 28 August 2016, at Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Kodakara
The Synod Fathers are hereby requested to make this known to the People of God entrusted to their care and to do all that is required for the success of the said Assembly.
Given at Kakkanad from the Major Archiepiscopal Curia of the Syro-Malabar Church at Mount St. Thomas on 25 February 2016.
George Cardinal AlencherryMajor ArchbishopSyro-Malabar Church
George Cardinal AlencherryMajor Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church
In this Jubilee year, we are urged more than ever to demonstrate our mercy and solicitude for our brothers in the Middle East Refugees, displaced persons, the elderly children, and the sick are all in need of our help. In this land of the East people are dying, being kidnapped and even killed. Many live in agony for their loved ones, or suffer when the family is divided on account of forced migration and exodus. They know the darkness and fear of neglect, of loneliness of misunderstanding. It is a time of trials and challenges, even of martyrdom All this necessarily augments our obligation to help, to respond to emergencies, to reconstruct and to invent new ways of meeting the whole gamut of needs. Such acts of mercy, all necessary and urgent, allow us each day to experience that "if the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor"We live clinging to the Cross of Good Friday, but sustained by the light of the Resurrection. The Holy Land is a place of dialogue, whose inhabitants never cease dreaming of constructing bridges, and in which the Christian communit livesto proclaim the Gospel of Peace. It is a Lana of "ecumeriis ri of blood" and at the same time a place of extraordinary normality."We cannot remain indifferent: God is not indifferent! God cares abol,lt mankind, God does not abandon us" (Pope Francis). This care is expressed by our open hands, contributing generously. It can also be shown by making pilgrimages without fear to the places of our salvation visiting also the schools and centers of assistance, where one can draw near to the local Christians and listen to their stories.The Collection for the Holy Land reminds us of an "ancient" duty, which the history of recent years has made more urgent, but no less a s ource of the joy that comes from helping our brothers.In conclusion, I assure you of the deepest gratitude of the Holy Father Francis and that of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, which seeks to accompany our brothers and sisters of the East with attentive care. Kindly extend this heartfelt thanks to all the Christian faithful of your particular Church.With most cordial and fraternal greetings in our Lord I remain
.
.
.
,
, ,
, .
y i
,
Prot N. 112016
Your Beatitude and His EminenceGood Friday is the day when evil seemed to triumph, as the Innocent One suffered death on the Cross It is a day that never seems to end in the Holy Land where apparently interminable violence must be endured Broadening our the gaze to the whole world, it is no less difficult to give wings to hope for a s r ne future.The human heart, restless and troubled, seeks light, life and hope; it want to walk in brotherhood, together with fellow human beings Desiring to set out anew, it looks beyond its present condition, longing for a reality that is greater and truer: a salvation already won yet ever to be striven forThe Good Friday collection rekindles in us this sure hope along with a clearer perception of the evil that surrounds us. It turns our gaze to the Holy Land, to the East whence comes our Redemption. There lie our roots; there lies our heart We are indebted to those who went out from there carrying the light of faith to the world. Likewise, we are indebted to those who remained to gi e witne s to that faith in spite of the conflicts that have always tortured that LandNonetheless, the Christians in the Holy Land care for the places marked by the passage of Jesus Himself, allowing us to touch, as it were, the truth of our faith This Land challenges our charity, as it always has yet today with a growing urgency Indeed, e er per on who lives and works there deserves our prayers and our concrete a sistance o nece r or th continuation of the wo of he ling wounds and fostering confidently justi e and pe ce
His Beatitude and His EminenceGeorge Card ALENCHERRYMajor Archbishop of Ernakulam-AngamalyThe Syro-Malabar Archiepiscopal CuriaMount St ThomasP.O Box 3110KAKKANAD, KOCHI - 682 030Kerala, IndiaEnc!
.
.
.
.
.
.
,
. , .
e es
.
,
, v
s , .
, . v y s
s , s ssa y f e rk a c a .
.
.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
22
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
23
In this Jubilee year, we are urged more than ever to demonstrate our mercy and solicitude for our brothers in the Middle East Refugees, displaced persons, the elderly children, and the sick are all in need of our help. In this land of the East people are dying, being kidnapped and even killed. Many live in agony for their loved ones, or suffer when the family is divided on account of forced migration and exodus. They know the darkness and fear of neglect, of loneliness of misunderstanding. It is a time of trials and challenges, even of martyrdom All this necessarily augments our obligation to help, to respond to emergencies, to reconstruct and to invent new ways of meeting the whole gamut of needs. Such acts of mercy, all necessary and urgent, allow us each day to experience that "if the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor"We live clinging to the Cross of Good Friday, but sustained by the light of the Resurrection. The Holy Land is a place of dialogue, whose inhabitants never cease dreaming of constructing bridges, and in which the Christian communit livesto proclaim the Gospel of Peace. It is a Lana of "ecumeriis ri of blood" and at the same time a place of extraordinary normality."We cannot remain indifferent: God is not indifferent! God cares abol,lt mankind, God does not abandon us" (Pope Francis). This care is expressed by our open hands, contributing generously. It can also be shown by making pilgrimages without fear to the places of our salvation visiting also the schools and centers of assistance, where one can draw near to the local Christians and listen to their stories.The Collection for the Holy Land reminds us of an "ancient" duty, which the history of recent years has made more urgent, but no less a s ource of the joy that comes from helping our brothers.In conclusion, I assure you of the deepest gratitude of the Holy Father Francis and that of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, which seeks to accompany our brothers and sisters of the East with attentive care. Kindly extend this heartfelt thanks to all the Christian faithful of your particular Church.With most cordial and fraternal greetings in our Lord I remain
.
.
.
,
, ,
, .
y i
,
Prot N. 112016
Your Beatitude and His EminenceGood Friday is the day when evil seemed to triumph, as the Innocent One suffered death on the Cross It is a day that never seems to end in the Holy Land where apparently interminable violence must be endured Broadening our the gaze to the whole world, it is no less difficult to give wings to hope for a s r ne future.The human heart, restless and troubled, seeks light, life and hope; it want to walk in brotherhood, together with fellow human beings Desiring to set out anew, it looks beyond its present condition, longing for a reality that is greater and truer: a salvation already won yet ever to be striven forThe Good Friday collection rekindles in us this sure hope along with a clearer perception of the evil that surrounds us. It turns our gaze to the Holy Land, to the East whence comes our Redemption. There lie our roots; there lies our heart We are indebted to those who went out from there carrying the light of faith to the world. Likewise, we are indebted to those who remained to gi e witne s to that faith in spite of the conflicts that have always tortured that LandNonetheless, the Christians in the Holy Land care for the places marked by the passage of Jesus Himself, allowing us to touch, as it were, the truth of our faith This Land challenges our charity, as it always has yet today with a growing urgency Indeed, e er per on who lives and works there deserves our prayers and our concrete a sistance o nece r or th continuation of the wo of he ling wounds and fostering confidently justi e and pe ce
His Beatitude and His EminenceGeorge Card ALENCHERRYMajor Archbishop of Ernakulam-AngamalyThe Syro-Malabar Archiepiscopal CuriaMount St ThomasP.O Box 3110KAKKANAD, KOCHI - 682 030Kerala, IndiaEnc!
.
.
.
.
.
.
,
. , .
e es
.
,
, v
s , .
, . v y s
s , s ssa y f e rk a c a .
.
.
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
24
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
25
Sr Sally's eyewitness account of Yemen killings Published on: 7:33 am, March 18, 2016 Story By: mattersindia.com
New Delhi: A three-page note based on the sharing by Missionaries of Charity Sister Sally, the only nun who survived the March 4 attack on a Catholic charity in Aden, Yemen, narrates the chilling events of that fateful day.Sr Sally spoke to Missionaries of Charity nun Sister Rio and her account was recorded by another nun, Sister Adriana.The note:Sister Rio's words to Sister Adriana: Friday, midday, March 4, 2016Sisters had Mass, breakfast as usual. As usual, Father stays back in chapel to say prayers, then to fix things around the compound.
8:00am: Said apostolate prayer and all 5 went to home.
8:30am: ISIS dressed in blue came in, killed guard and driver.
5 young Ethiopian men (Christian) began running to tell the sisters ISIS was here to kill them. They were killed one by one. They tied them to trees, shot them in the head and smashed their heads.
The sisters ran 2 by 2 in different directions, as they have mens and ladies home. 4 working women were screaming, “Don't kill the sisters! Don't kill the sisters!” One was the cook for 15 years. They killed them as well.
They caught Sr. Judith and Sr. Reginette first, tied them up, shot them in the head and smashed their heads. When the sisters ran in different directions, the Superior ran to the convent to try to warn Father Tom.They caught Sr. Anselm and Sr. Marguerite, tied them, shot them in the head and smashed their heads in the sand.
Meanwhile, the Superior could not get to the convent. It is not clear how many ISIS men were there.She saw all the sisters and helpers killed. The ISIS men were already getting to the convent so she went into the refrigerator room, since the door was open. These ISIS men were everywhere, searching for her, as they knew there were 5. At least three times they came into the fridgerator room. She did not hide, but remained standing behind the door – they never saw her. This is miraculous.Meanwhile, at the convent, Father had heard the screaming and consumed all the Hosts. He had no time to consume the large Host, so he threw the oil out of the sanctuary lamp and dissolved it in the water.A neighbor saw them put Father Tom in their car. They did not find any trace of Father anywhere. All the religious articles were smashed and destroyed – Our Lady, crucifix, altar, tabernacle, lectionary stand – even their prayer books and Bibles.10:00 or 10:15am: The ISIS men finished and left.Sr. Sally came to get the bodies of the sisters. She got them all. She went to the patients to each one individually to see if they were OK. All were OK. Not one was hurt.The son of the woman who was the cook (who was killed) was calling her on her cellphone. Since she was not answering, he called the police, and he went with the police there and found this great massacre. The police and the son arrived at about 10:30am.The police tried to take Sr. Sally out of there — she refused to leave the people who were crying, “Don't leave us; stay with us.” But the police forced her to go with them because the ISIS knew there were 5 sisters, and they were convinced they will not stop until they kill her too. So finally she had to leave. She took one set of clothes and the sisters' bodies, and the police brought them to an international hospital called “Doctors Without Borders” for protection. As there was not enough room in the mortuary of that hospital for the sisters' bodies, the police brought their bodies to a bigger hospital mortuary.Sr. Sally told Sr. Rio she is so sad because she is alone and did not die with her sisters. Sr. Rio told her God wanted a witness and told her, “Who would have found the sisters' bodies and who would ever tell us what happened? God wants us to know.”Pope Francis had his secretary contact the Yemen Secretary of State very often – about once a week to check up on the sisters and reassure them of his
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
24
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
25
Sr Sally's eyewitness account of Yemen killings Published on: 7:33 am, March 18, 2016 Story By: mattersindia.com
New Delhi: A three-page note based on the sharing by Missionaries of Charity Sister Sally, the only nun who survived the March 4 attack on a Catholic charity in Aden, Yemen, narrates the chilling events of that fateful day.Sr Sally spoke to Missionaries of Charity nun Sister Rio and her account was recorded by another nun, Sister Adriana.The note:Sister Rio's words to Sister Adriana: Friday, midday, March 4, 2016Sisters had Mass, breakfast as usual. As usual, Father stays back in chapel to say prayers, then to fix things around the compound.
8:00am: Said apostolate prayer and all 5 went to home.
8:30am: ISIS dressed in blue came in, killed guard and driver.
5 young Ethiopian men (Christian) began running to tell the sisters ISIS was here to kill them. They were killed one by one. They tied them to trees, shot them in the head and smashed their heads.
The sisters ran 2 by 2 in different directions, as they have mens and ladies home. 4 working women were screaming, “Don't kill the sisters! Don't kill the sisters!” One was the cook for 15 years. They killed them as well.
They caught Sr. Judith and Sr. Reginette first, tied them up, shot them in the head and smashed their heads. When the sisters ran in different directions, the Superior ran to the convent to try to warn Father Tom.They caught Sr. Anselm and Sr. Marguerite, tied them, shot them in the head and smashed their heads in the sand.
Meanwhile, the Superior could not get to the convent. It is not clear how many ISIS men were there.She saw all the sisters and helpers killed. The ISIS men were already getting to the convent so she went into the refrigerator room, since the door was open. These ISIS men were everywhere, searching for her, as they knew there were 5. At least three times they came into the fridgerator room. She did not hide, but remained standing behind the door – they never saw her. This is miraculous.Meanwhile, at the convent, Father had heard the screaming and consumed all the Hosts. He had no time to consume the large Host, so he threw the oil out of the sanctuary lamp and dissolved it in the water.A neighbor saw them put Father Tom in their car. They did not find any trace of Father anywhere. All the religious articles were smashed and destroyed – Our Lady, crucifix, altar, tabernacle, lectionary stand – even their prayer books and Bibles.10:00 or 10:15am: The ISIS men finished and left.Sr. Sally came to get the bodies of the sisters. She got them all. She went to the patients to each one individually to see if they were OK. All were OK. Not one was hurt.The son of the woman who was the cook (who was killed) was calling her on her cellphone. Since she was not answering, he called the police, and he went with the police there and found this great massacre. The police and the son arrived at about 10:30am.The police tried to take Sr. Sally out of there — she refused to leave the people who were crying, “Don't leave us; stay with us.” But the police forced her to go with them because the ISIS knew there were 5 sisters, and they were convinced they will not stop until they kill her too. So finally she had to leave. She took one set of clothes and the sisters' bodies, and the police brought them to an international hospital called “Doctors Without Borders” for protection. As there was not enough room in the mortuary of that hospital for the sisters' bodies, the police brought their bodies to a bigger hospital mortuary.Sr. Sally told Sr. Rio she is so sad because she is alone and did not die with her sisters. Sr. Rio told her God wanted a witness and told her, “Who would have found the sisters' bodies and who would ever tell us what happened? God wants us to know.”Pope Francis had his secretary contact the Yemen Secretary of State very often – about once a week to check up on the sisters and reassure them of his
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
26
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
27
closeness. Today, the Pope's secretary sent the message: “I thank them — Little M.C. martyrs.” He said he is offering the 40-hour First Friday devotion for them.Sr. Sally told Sr. Rio that Fr. Tom tells them every day, “Let us be ready for martyrdom.”Sr. Judith — they were trying so hard to take her for senior course, but they were not able to get her out.Sr. Reginette — they were trying to send her for junior course but could not get her out.God wanted them there.Aden is rich city – a port city. Aden wanted to be its own state, so they got ISIS in to help them fight against Yemen. So ISIS won for Aden. That was the war last year, with all the bombing. They won, so that is over, but ISIS won't leave. They want to take over and exterminate any Christian presence. They did not kill the sisters in the war because they had no political reason to waste time on them. But now, they are the only Christian presence, and ISIS wants to get rid of all Christianity. So they are real martyrs — died because they are Christians. They could have died so many times in the war, but God wanted it to be clear they are martyrs for the faith.Sr. Rio said Sr. Sally is fully surrendered. The police are trying to get her out because they will just keep after her until they kill her. She is fully surrendered and told Sr. Rio – whatever God wants. She said the other Muslims are so respectful of them. She said to pray that their blood will be the seeds for peace in the Middle East and to stop the ISIS.She said that if they kidnapped Father Tom most probably they will wait 2 days, then ask in exchange for Father Tom either money or the release of their members held in prison.Sr. Rio said they were so faithful – ISIS knew exactly when they leave and when to break in. And because of their faithfulness, they were in the right place at the right time and were ready when the Bridegroom came.Sr. Adriana said she thinks the crushing of the heads has some evil connection with “She will crush head of the serpent,” some kind of mockery or evil meaning.CORRECT NAMES:Sister M. Sally, MC (Superior)Sister M. Anselm, MC (Bihar)Sister M. Marguerite, MC (Rwanda)Sister M. Judith, MC (Kenya)Sister M. Reginette, MC (Rwanda)
closeness. Today, the Pope's secretary sent the message: “I thank them — Little M.C. martyrs.” He said he is offering the 40-hour First Friday devotion for them.Sr. Sally told Sr. Rio that Fr. Tom tells them every day, “Let us be ready for martyrdom.”Sr. Judith — they were trying so hard to take her for senior course, but they were not able to get her out.Sr. Reginette — they were trying to send her for junior course but could not get her out.God wanted them there.Aden is rich city – a port city. Aden wanted to be its own state, so they got ISIS in to help them fight against Yemen. So ISIS won for Aden. That was the war last year, with all the bombing. They won, so that is over, but ISIS won't leave. They want to take over and exterminate any Christian presence. They did not kill the sisters in the war because they had no political reason to waste time on them. But now, they are the only Christian presence, and ISIS wants to get rid of all Christianity. So they are real martyrs — died because they are Christians. They could have died so many times in the war, but God wanted it to be clear they are martyrs for the faith.Sr. Rio said Sr. Sally is fully surrendered. The police are trying to get her out because they will just keep after her until they kill her. She is fully surrendered and told Sr. Rio – whatever God wants. She said the other Muslims are so respectful of them. She said to pray that their blood will be the seeds for peace in the Middle East and to stop the ISIS.She said that if they kidnapped Father Tom most probably they will wait 2 days, then ask in exchange for Father Tom either money or the release of their members held in prison.Sr. Rio said they were so faithful – ISIS knew exactly when they leave and when to break in. And because of their faithfulness, they were in the right place at the right time and were ready when the Bridegroom came.Sr. Adriana said she thinks the crushing of the heads has some evil connection with “She will crush head of the serpent,” some kind of mockery or evil meaning.CORRECT NAMES:Sister M. Sally, MC (Superior)Sister M. Anselm, MC (Bihar)Sister M. Marguerite, MC (Rwanda)Sister M. Judith, MC (Kenya)Sister M. Reginette, MC (Rwanda)
1. Approval granted to the reconstituted Core committee of Mother
Theresa Peace Home, Tirupur until further orders (Order No. 44/2016
dated 27-2-2016)
MOTHER THERESA PEACE HOME, VANCHIPALAYAM, TIRUPUR
Members of the Reconstituted Core committee
In the light of the decision of the Core committee of Mother Theresa Peace Home, Vanchipalayam, Tirupur, held on 18-2-2016, its existing Core committee is hereby reconstituted with the following members until further orders:
13. Representative of Prathinidhiyogam Tirupur Mr. Boby
B. Consultants:
1. Mr. John Mathew, CA
2. Mr. James A., Ex-Tahsildar
C. Nominated:
1. Fr. Shaji Pandaraparambil
2. Sr. Vineetha, ASMI (Joint secretary)
3. Mr. Milton John (Vice Chairman)
4. Mr. Augustine (Treasurer)
5. Mr. Mathew Joseph (Asst. Treasurer)
6. Dr. George Zacharia
7. Mr. K.A. Kuriachan Kattookaran
8. Mr. A.K. Joju
9. Mr. Jerry Paul NellisserythGiven this from the Eparchial Curia on 27 February 2016
Mar Paul Alappatt
Bishop of Ramanathapuram
Vice Chancellor
NB. Content of this decree is to be communicated to each member of the committee in writing by the Director of Mother Theresa Peace Home as soon as possible. +PA
1. Approval granted to the reconstituted Core committee of Mother
Theresa Peace Home, Tirupur until further orders (Order No. 44/2016
dated 27-2-2016)
MOTHER THERESA PEACE HOME, VANCHIPALAYAM, TIRUPUR
Members of the Reconstituted Core committee
In the light of the decision of the Core committee of Mother Theresa Peace Home, Vanchipalayam, Tirupur, held on 18-2-2016, its existing Core committee is hereby reconstituted with the following members until further orders:
13. Representative of Prathinidhiyogam Tirupur Mr. Boby
B. Consultants:
1. Mr. John Mathew, CA
2. Mr. James A., Ex-Tahsildar
C. Nominated:
1. Fr. Shaji Pandaraparambil
2. Sr. Vineetha, ASMI (Joint secretary)
3. Mr. Milton John (Vice Chairman)
4. Mr. Augustine (Treasurer)
5. Mr. Mathew Joseph (Asst. Treasurer)
6. Dr. George Zacharia
7. Mr. K.A. Kuriachan Kattookaran
8. Mr. A.K. Joju
9. Mr. Jerry Paul NellisserythGiven this from the Eparchial Curia on 27 February 2016
Mar Paul Alappatt
Bishop of Ramanathapuram
Vice Chancellor
NB. Content of this decree is to be communicated to each member of the committee in writing by the Director of Mother Theresa Peace Home as soon as possible. +PA
Admission Policies and Procedures of St. Johns' Medical College, Bangalore
1. MBBS COURSE
The new MBBS admission policies and procedures to be effective from academic year 2016-17 are as follows:
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
38
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
39
a) All India Online Entrance Test
All candidates seeking admission to the MBBS course in St. John's must write the All India Computer Based Online Entrance Test conducted by St. John's. This test is conducted on a specified date in single window mode in several Centres across the country. Applications for the Entrance Test are to be submitted online within a specified time frame. For more details on the application process and schedule of events, please visit www.stjohn.in.
b. Interview
On the basis of the Entrance Test scores, a certain number of candidates will be short listed for in each category are called for interview. To be eligible, a candidate must have secured a minimum of 50% marks in the Entrance Test.
The interview will be "focused interview" to assess the candidate's aptitude in terms of motivation, value orientation, ethics, communication skills, and awareness of and sensitivity to Indian social realities. The Catholic candidates could be asked certain faith related questions as well.
The final selection will be made on the basis of the cumulative score of the Entrance Test, Interview, and additional marks, if any awarded to certain categories. Entrance Test scores will have a weightage of 80%, and the interview, 20%. Additional marks are awarded to the following categories as given below.
=Winners of inter-college co-curricular competitions....... 2 points
=Winners of inter-state co-curricular competitions............ 4 points
=Candidate from a diocese which ha not had any MBBS
Admission for the past 7 years......................................... 5 points
c. Allocation of Seats (Seat Matrix)
MBBS seats will be allocated on merit basis (inter se merit) to candidates of different categories as specified in the following table.
Category Number
1. General Open Merit 30
2. Community Quota 108
3. Institutional Quota 10
4. Differently Abled 1
5. Central Govt. Nominee 1
Total 150
NOTES
1. The 30 seats in the General Open Merit Category will be allocated to the top
rank holders irrespective of religion, gender, region, social class, or other affiliations.
2. The 10 seats in the Institutional Quota will be allocated on merit basis to Children of serving St. John's staff with at least ten years of uninterrupted service. Children of staff who have uninterrupted service of fifteen years will get 2 additional marks, and those who have served twenty years or more will get 4 additional marks at final section time.
3. If there are vacant seats in the Institutional Quota or Differently Abled category for lack of eligible candidates, these will be transferred to Other Catholics category in the Community quota.
4. The 102 seats in the Community Quota will be allocated on merit basis (inter se merit) as follows:
1. Religious Sister/Brother 20
2. Tribal Catholics 10
3. Dalit Catholics 10
4. North Indian Indigenous Catholics 10
5. Other Catholics 58
Total 102
5. If there are vacant seats in any of the reserved Categories in the Community Quota for lack of eligible candidates, these will be transferred to the Other Catholics Category.
6. Dalit Catholics are those Catholics who are denied the benefits of reservation the Dalits are entitled to because they are practicing Catholics. The Certificate of the local bishop is required to be considered in the category.
7. North Indian Indigenous Catholics are local Catholics, i.e., not migrants or children of migrants from the States of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, maharashtra and Gujarat. The Certificate of the local bishop is required to be considered in this category.
8. Of the total 150 admitted, at least 75 (50%) must be women, and 50 (33%) must be candidates with domicile in Karnataka State. If the normal merit-based selection process does not ensure this minimum, candidates of these categories will be given preference (on merit basis) in the Community Quota to make up the deficit.
II. Admission Policies for Post-Graduate Course in Medicine (MD, MS)
St. John's has currently 19 post-graduate degree courses and 6 post-graduate Diploma Courses in Medicine with a total of 88 seats.
Applicants to post-graduate courses in different disciplines in Medicines are
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
38
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
39
a) All India Online Entrance Test
All candidates seeking admission to the MBBS course in St. John's must write the All India Computer Based Online Entrance Test conducted by St. John's. This test is conducted on a specified date in single window mode in several Centres across the country. Applications for the Entrance Test are to be submitted online within a specified time frame. For more details on the application process and schedule of events, please visit www.stjohn.in.
b. Interview
On the basis of the Entrance Test scores, a certain number of candidates will be short listed for in each category are called for interview. To be eligible, a candidate must have secured a minimum of 50% marks in the Entrance Test.
The interview will be "focused interview" to assess the candidate's aptitude in terms of motivation, value orientation, ethics, communication skills, and awareness of and sensitivity to Indian social realities. The Catholic candidates could be asked certain faith related questions as well.
The final selection will be made on the basis of the cumulative score of the Entrance Test, Interview, and additional marks, if any awarded to certain categories. Entrance Test scores will have a weightage of 80%, and the interview, 20%. Additional marks are awarded to the following categories as given below.
=Winners of inter-college co-curricular competitions....... 2 points
=Winners of inter-state co-curricular competitions............ 4 points
=Candidate from a diocese which ha not had any MBBS
Admission for the past 7 years......................................... 5 points
c. Allocation of Seats (Seat Matrix)
MBBS seats will be allocated on merit basis (inter se merit) to candidates of different categories as specified in the following table.
Category Number
1. General Open Merit 30
2. Community Quota 108
3. Institutional Quota 10
4. Differently Abled 1
5. Central Govt. Nominee 1
Total 150
NOTES
1. The 30 seats in the General Open Merit Category will be allocated to the top
rank holders irrespective of religion, gender, region, social class, or other affiliations.
2. The 10 seats in the Institutional Quota will be allocated on merit basis to Children of serving St. John's staff with at least ten years of uninterrupted service. Children of staff who have uninterrupted service of fifteen years will get 2 additional marks, and those who have served twenty years or more will get 4 additional marks at final section time.
3. If there are vacant seats in the Institutional Quota or Differently Abled category for lack of eligible candidates, these will be transferred to Other Catholics category in the Community quota.
4. The 102 seats in the Community Quota will be allocated on merit basis (inter se merit) as follows:
1. Religious Sister/Brother 20
2. Tribal Catholics 10
3. Dalit Catholics 10
4. North Indian Indigenous Catholics 10
5. Other Catholics 58
Total 102
5. If there are vacant seats in any of the reserved Categories in the Community Quota for lack of eligible candidates, these will be transferred to the Other Catholics Category.
6. Dalit Catholics are those Catholics who are denied the benefits of reservation the Dalits are entitled to because they are practicing Catholics. The Certificate of the local bishop is required to be considered in the category.
7. North Indian Indigenous Catholics are local Catholics, i.e., not migrants or children of migrants from the States of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, maharashtra and Gujarat. The Certificate of the local bishop is required to be considered in this category.
8. Of the total 150 admitted, at least 75 (50%) must be women, and 50 (33%) must be candidates with domicile in Karnataka State. If the normal merit-based selection process does not ensure this minimum, candidates of these categories will be given preference (on merit basis) in the Community Quota to make up the deficit.
II. Admission Policies for Post-Graduate Course in Medicine (MD, MS)
St. John's has currently 19 post-graduate degree courses and 6 post-graduate Diploma Courses in Medicine with a total of 88 seats.
Applicants to post-graduate courses in different disciplines in Medicines are
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
40
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
41
selected on the basis of the cumulative score obtained in the following:
All India Online Entrance Test - 100 points
Interview - 15 Points
Practical Test - 10 ponts
The following categories of applicants are given additional marks as specified below:
=Alumni with two years of Rural Bond Service in Category A Centres
- 25 Points
=Alumni with two years of Rural Bond Service in Category B Centres
- 20 Points
=Religious Sisters - 10 Points
=Catholics (laity) - 4 Points
=Passing MBBS in first attempt - 2 Points
=Those who have served St. John's for one year as Junior Residents - 5 Points
=Winners of Inter-collegiate extra-curricular competitions - 2 Points
=Winners of Inter-state extra-curricular competitions - 2 Points
III. Admission Policies for Super-Specialty Courses in Medicine (DM, M.CH.)
St. John's has currently 18 Super-Specialty degree courses with 18 seats.
Applicants to Super Specialty degree courses with 18 seats.
Applicants to Super Specialty courses in different disciplines in medicine are selected on merit basis based on the cumulative score obtained in the following:
selected on the basis of the cumulative score obtained in the following:
All India Online Entrance Test - 100 points
Interview - 15 Points
Practical Test - 10 ponts
The following categories of applicants are given additional marks as specified below:
=Alumni with two years of Rural Bond Service in Category A Centres
- 25 Points
=Alumni with two years of Rural Bond Service in Category B Centres
- 20 Points
=Religious Sisters - 10 Points
=Catholics (laity) - 4 Points
=Passing MBBS in first attempt - 2 Points
=Those who have served St. John's for one year as Junior Residents - 5 Points
=Winners of Inter-collegiate extra-curricular competitions - 2 Points
=Winners of Inter-state extra-curricular competitions - 2 Points
III. Admission Policies for Super-Specialty Courses in Medicine (DM, M.CH.)
St. John's has currently 18 Super-Specialty degree courses with 18 seats.
Applicants to Super Specialty degree courses with 18 seats.
Applicants to Super Specialty courses in different disciplines in medicine are selected on merit basis based on the cumulative score obtained in the following:
List of Members for The "FOLLOWUP RETREAT"1. Holy Trinity Cathedral, Ramanathapuram 52. St. Sebastian's Church, Ukkadam 123. St. Mark's Church, Kuniamuthur 254. Lourde's Forane Church, Gandhipuram 225. St. Joseph's Church, Poomarket 66. St. Joseph's Church, Kavundampalayam 207. Holy Family Mission Centre, Athipalayam 198. St. Thomas Church, Sulur19. St. Joseph's Church, Mettupalayam 910. St. Antony's Church, Visuwasapuram 611. St. Paul's Church, Pollachi412. Mount Carmel Church, Tirupur 14
m. sPbnwkv Imhme- Øv m. _ntPm ]memb- n¬Akn. Ub-d-IvS¿ Ub-d-IvS¿
MARATHONA few of our students took part in the Marathon conducted by Kundan Colony Sports Association, (KCSA) Mettupalayam on 17.01.2016 under three Categories. Our students of STD XI, K. Santhosh Kumar, S. Sriya Karthick, Ashik Anil, Nanda Kumar and M. Yeswanth won gold medals. Congratulations!QUIZ COMPETITIONThe school along with Aee Bee Academy Conducted a Quiz program on 30.01.2016 for English Grammar. Ms. R. Shanthini of Std XI was the Quiz Mistress. The students of Stds II, V, VI, IX, XI participated. It was an interesting and effective program.HOUSE VISITOur Josephian family members, Rev. Sisters and Teachers, visited our students' houses. It helped to have a better knowledge, understanding and rapport with parents and the families of our students.
List of Members for The "FOLLOWUP RETREAT"1. Holy Trinity Cathedral, Ramanathapuram 52. St. Sebastian's Church, Ukkadam 123. St. Mark's Church, Kuniamuthur 254. Lourde's Forane Church, Gandhipuram 225. St. Joseph's Church, Poomarket 66. St. Joseph's Church, Kavundampalayam 207. Holy Family Mission Centre, Athipalayam 198. St. Thomas Church, Sulur19. St. Joseph's Church, Mettupalayam 910. St. Antony's Church, Visuwasapuram 611. St. Paul's Church, Pollachi412. Mount Carmel Church, Tirupur 14
m. sPbnwkv Imhme- Øv m. _ntPm ]memb- n¬Akn. Ub-d-IvS¿ Ub-d-IvS¿
MARATHONA few of our students took part in the Marathon conducted by Kundan Colony Sports Association, (KCSA) Mettupalayam on 17.01.2016 under three Categories. Our students of STD XI, K. Santhosh Kumar, S. Sriya Karthick, Ashik Anil, Nanda Kumar and M. Yeswanth won gold medals. Congratulations!QUIZ COMPETITIONThe school along with Aee Bee Academy Conducted a Quiz program on 30.01.2016 for English Grammar. Ms. R. Shanthini of Std XI was the Quiz Mistress. The students of Stds II, V, VI, IX, XI participated. It was an interesting and effective program.HOUSE VISITOur Josephian family members, Rev. Sisters and Teachers, visited our students' houses. It helped to have a better knowledge, understanding and rapport with parents and the families of our students.
Starting of the Coimbatore Mission 29th April 1955Formation of Coimbatore Forane Nov. 1973Erection of the Eparchy of Palghat 20th June 1974Inauguration of the Eparchy of Palghat 8th Sept 1974Inauguration of the Coimbatore Region and Formation of 3 Foranes 1st May 2008Erection of the Eparchy of Ramanathapuram 18th Jan 2010Inauguration of the Eparchy of Ramanathapurm & Episcopal Ordination of Msgr. Paul Alappatt 11th April 2010Inauguration of the Ist Pastoral Council 29th April 2010Ist Eparchial Day & Releasing of the Eparchia Logo and Anthem(Chief Guest: Mar Andrews Thazhath,Metropolitan Archbishop of Trichur) 4th July 2010Inauguration & Blessing of EparchialCatechetical Centre (Gandhipuram)& Animation Centre (Ukkadam) (Temporary) 12th October 2010Blessing of the Arokiamatha Chapel, Pollachy 18th October 2010Blessing & Inauguration of"Santhom Creations", Tirupur 25th October 2010Blessing foundation Stone for the Eparchial Minor Seminary (H.E. Mar Jacob Manathodath) 06th January 2011Inauguration of the 2nd Pastoral Council 11th June 2011Inauguration of "St. Mary's Minor Seminary", at temporary building in Edayapalayam 12th June 2011Releasing of the 1st Diocesan Directory (Mar Bosco Puthur) 03rd July 2011Inauguration of the Mission Year 10th Sept. 2011Inauguration of the Diocesan Website 10th Sept. 2011Consecration of the Karunya Matha ChurchKarunya Nagar (Perur) 08th Dec. 2011Erection of the Parish Udumalpet 07 Jan. 2012Starting of the Dharapuram Mission 4th March 2012Blessing of the Presbytery, Karamadai 06th May 2012The Pastoral visit of the Major Archbishop Mar George Cardinal Alencherry 6th-8th July 2012
rd03 Eparchial day 8th July 2012Blessing of the foundation stones for Bishop's House & Pastoral Centre by the Major Archbishop 8th July 2012Erection of the Parish Sulur Aero 15th July 2012Inauguration of the Eparchial Santhom Social Service Society 18th August 2012Laying foundation Stone for the Minor Seminary at Kozhinjampara 18th January 2013Consecration of the Good Shepherd Church, Karamadai 20th January 2013Starting of Vadavally Mission 10th February 2013Starting of Ettimada Mission 17th February 2013Starting of St. Alphonasa Mission, Edayarpalayam (Mettupalayam) 03rd March 2013
Starting of the Coimbatore Mission 29th April 1955Formation of Coimbatore Forane Nov. 1973Erection of the Eparchy of Palghat 20th June 1974Inauguration of the Eparchy of Palghat 8th Sept 1974Inauguration of the Coimbatore Region and Formation of 3 Foranes 1st May 2008Erection of the Eparchy of Ramanathapuram 18th Jan 2010Inauguration of the Eparchy of Ramanathapurm & Episcopal Ordination of Msgr. Paul Alappatt 11th April 2010Inauguration of the Ist Pastoral Council 29th April 2010Ist Eparchial Day & Releasing of the Eparchia Logo and Anthem(Chief Guest: Mar Andrews Thazhath,Metropolitan Archbishop of Trichur) 4th July 2010Inauguration & Blessing of EparchialCatechetical Centre (Gandhipuram)& Animation Centre (Ukkadam) (Temporary) 12th October 2010Blessing of the Arokiamatha Chapel, Pollachy 18th October 2010Blessing & Inauguration of"Santhom Creations", Tirupur 25th October 2010Blessing foundation Stone for the Eparchial Minor Seminary (H.E. Mar Jacob Manathodath) 06th January 2011Inauguration of the 2nd Pastoral Council 11th June 2011Inauguration of "St. Mary's Minor Seminary", at temporary building in Edayapalayam 12th June 2011Releasing of the 1st Diocesan Directory (Mar Bosco Puthur) 03rd July 2011Inauguration of the Mission Year 10th Sept. 2011Inauguration of the Diocesan Website 10th Sept. 2011Consecration of the Karunya Matha ChurchKarunya Nagar (Perur) 08th Dec. 2011Erection of the Parish Udumalpet 07 Jan. 2012Starting of the Dharapuram Mission 4th March 2012Blessing of the Presbytery, Karamadai 06th May 2012The Pastoral visit of the Major Archbishop Mar George Cardinal Alencherry 6th-8th July 2012
rd03 Eparchial day 8th July 2012Blessing of the foundation stones for Bishop's House & Pastoral Centre by the Major Archbishop 8th July 2012Erection of the Parish Sulur Aero 15th July 2012Inauguration of the Eparchial Santhom Social Service Society 18th August 2012Laying foundation Stone for the Minor Seminary at Kozhinjampara 18th January 2013Consecration of the Good Shepherd Church, Karamadai 20th January 2013Starting of Vadavally Mission 10th February 2013Starting of Ettimada Mission 17th February 2013Starting of St. Alphonasa Mission, Edayarpalayam (Mettupalayam) 03rd March 2013
SNIPPETS
SANTHOM VOICE - APRIL- 2016
60
Starting of Athipalayam Pirivu Mission(Ganapathy, Gandhipuram) 11th August 2013Starting of Sowripalayam Mission 20th October 2013Consecration of the St. Judes Church, Dharapuram 21st Dec. 2013Sifting of the Minor Seminary to the New building inVadakkukadu (Kozhinjampara) 06th Jan 2014Consecration of St. Alphonsa Church, Palladam 1st Feb 2014Starting of Holy Mass at Peelamedu (Sitra) 2nd Feb 2014Blessing of Presbytery, Dharapuram 23rd Feb 2014Perpetual Adoration Centre at Lourde Forane Church, Gandipuram 8th Dec 2014Laying foundation stone for Mother Theresa Peace Home, Tirupur 11th Apr 2015Laying foundation stone for the new church at Kuniamuthur 25th Apr 2015“Samarpithavarsham” at Ramanathapuram Cathedral in connectionwith the year of the Consecrated (2014 Nov. 30-2016 Feb.02) 14th Jun 2015Laying Foundation Stone for the Community hall at “Rosary Garden” (RNM) 11th Aug 2015Laying of the Foundation stones for Bishop’s house and Pastoral Centre(by Mar Paul Alappatt) 06th Nov 2015Formal blessing & inauguration of St. Mary’s Minor Seminary, Vadakkukad (Pollachi) by Mar Andrews Thazhath, Metropolitan Archbishop of Trichur 08th Dec 2015Opening of the “Door of Divine Mercy” at Cathedral 13th Dec 20152nd Diocesan Bible convention at Ramanathapuram (Alvernia School Ground) 18-22nd Dec 2015Protest rally & Meeting at Ramanathapuram against attach on a priestand three lay people in the diocese 07th Feb 2016Blessing of the first phase of the Mother Theresa Peace Home Tirupur (By Bishop Paul Alappatt) 11th Feb 2016
