You are on page 1of 32

CONTENTS

Sincere thanks to
Editorial A Thought from the Rector Major Fr Provincial pays homage to Fr Benji Reminiscing Fr Benjis last days in Hyderabad and Chennai Sketching the Puthota family tree Chronological List of Foundations Voices from the heart Timeline A Modern Salesian Oratory Women at Pulidindi Snippets Salesian Local News National News International News

2 3 5 8 11 13 14 20 21 22 24 26 30 31

Fr Alex Jeyaraj,
the former editor

God bless you for your hard work and creative efforts as editor during the past year. We pray you have an enriching and fulfilling ministry ahead!
June-September 2009

Editor: Fr Thathireddy Bhaskar SDB E-mail: thathireddy@rediffmail.com Layout: Ms Sheeba & Mr Salva Reddy C Printed at: DB Press, Guntur-522007 URL: www.donboscohyderabad.org

Editorial...

Editorial ...
There are many great people in the world, yet only those who make a difference in the lives of others, are immortal. Today we mourn the earthly loss of one such great personalities: Fr Benjamin Puthota, our first Provincial. Being a true son of Don Bosco and passionately in love with his Salesian vocation, he definitely leaves an irreplaceable vacuum in our lives. Normally on the title page of every journal or magazine, there runs the following text: The views expressed in the articles herein do not necessarily reflect the mind or view of the editorial board and publishers. Perhaps for once, this tag would be irrelevant, for the tribute we offer to Fr Benji in the following pages. Through this issue of the Kaburlu, we pay homage to this great son of Don Bosco and gratefully acknowledge his gracious presence in our personal lives, our communities and our Province at large. Immortality is attained not merely by doing great deeds. It is something that is achieved by making those great deeds outlive ourselves and in the service of humanity. It is for this we remember Fr Benji; we remember him not only for what he did for us, but what he made of us. I still remember his pet phrases, Keep the Province flag high and 'You are the columns of the Province' to all of us when we were students of philosophy and theology. It was through such inspirational words, letters, conferences and actions that he challenged us to give our best for Christ, Don Bosco and the youth. Transcending personal likes and dislikes, he inspired us and continues to do so, even today to place the common good of the Church, Congregation and the other before our individual choices. As for his personal touch, I kept it a secret that he loved me the most, until I realized that I am one of the many who felt the same. Probably this was how Don Bosco was. Every boy felt that he was loved most by him. True indeed, Fr Benji was a true son of Don Bosco - his double. The present volume features facts, figures, testimonies, history and accomplishments of our dear Fr Benji. This issue also features two reflections (and concrete interventions) in our apostolate in transforming the society in which we live. At a time when called to explore and refresh our concept of new frontiers these interventions act as signposts. Last of all, as I take up this delicate task entrusted to me by the Province, a sincere thanks, on behalf of the Province, to Fr Alex Jeyaraj, the former editor. We wish him a fruitful ministry in Italy!

Fr Thathireddy Vijaya Bhaskar


June-September 2009 2

...Message of the Rector Major

A Thought from the Rector Major


An Extract from the Goodnight given by Fr Pascual Chavez to the GC 26 members on the night of his re-election as the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco (March 25, 2008) [] I am really moved when I think about this Don Bosco: I see a man who let himself be guided by the Spirit, who was convinced that he had a mission that the Lord had entrusted to him, that he needed to involve others in this adventure of his. Notice the greatness of Don Bosco: he begins his work making his boys the protagonists, making them become his most significant and closest collaborators. It is said that at the oratory there was a cleric older than Michael Rua. And nonetheless Don Bosco, having great fondness for and confidence in him entrusted to him the care of the boys who were living in /boarders. These boys had great affection for Don Rua because they saw in him a true reflection of Don Bosco. I think that the real greatness of Don Bosco was this: making his boys not only collaborators but his co-founders! For this reason it frightens me a bit when we talk about the urgent need to have vocations, but we dont have the courage to do what our Father did: put the young at the centre, make them the protagonists: this is the greatness and the unity of the Congregation.

Often I ask myself why is the Rector Major loved so much all over the Salesian world? Why has When I called him on the telephone and told the Congregation him, I need you, this same former Provincials not split after 150 reply was: Tell me where I have to go. I need years? Because its you in Turkey And he: When do I have to sons, who have be there? inherited it, have Dear Confreres, this is what will make the received it as a Congregation great: availability for the mission. 3

priceless patrimony, and have succeeded in setting it up so well, following in the footsteps and the intuition of Don Bosco believing in the young, making them real protagonists, co-responsible not only for their own education but capable of taking in hand the scenario of the world and of history. It was Don Boscos conviction: one of his boys was his first successor. A second was the first Bishop and then Cardinal, one was the youngest non-martyr saint. Look what Don Bosco did! Just so. It all began one 25th of March, on a day like today: Don Bosco called a young man Michael Rua. Who would have thought that that event would have changed the lives of thousands and thousands of youngsters? Id like to read you this message I received among the hundreds of emails, that has been arriving. Dear Rector Major, I am Piero, a boy from the

June-September 2009

...Message of the Rector Major


oratory at Schio (Vicenza) who has had the opportunity and the good fortune to meet you a couple of times. The first when you came to our oratory on that surprise visit when we exchanged a few words, the second when I went to see you in Rome, with my friends from the Salesian Youth Movement in November 2007, and we ate at the same table I writing to you especially to offer my congratulations on your re-election as Rector Major. I read and heard recently about your still great wish to return to the young. I like your work and what you are doing for us Don Boscos youngsters of the third millennium. I hope you continue this way and are able to do things and get your Congregation to do things as it was at the beginning, in the 1800s. Theres a need for this, and I, in my small way feel the desire to know better and better the one who made me fall in love with Jesus. Just listen how a youngster talks about Don Bosco?! This is the greatness of Don Bosco. See why this circumstance of the election on this 25th of March is very significant for me. Id like to finish this Good Night by telling you on what the future of our Congregation and not just for the next six years could depend. Above all, a love for Don Bosco and for the young that is translated in total availability for the mission. Total availability. I love to remember that when a Provincial was near the end of his six-year period, Fr Vigan told him: Come here to the UPS; and at the end of this second six-year period: Go now to that new Province; and afterwards Go as Delegate to that other country. When I called him on the telephone and told him, I need you, this same former Provincials reply was: Tell me where I have to go. I need you in Turkey And he: When do I have to be there? June-September 2009 Dear Confreres, this is what will make the Congregation great: availability for the mission. At all levels. There are some here among you who when I called them as Rector Major, to tell them that the Congregation needed them in this or that part of the world, replied with simplicity and with total availability: If the Rector Major thinks so If Don Bosco asks. More than one confrere said to me: Ive done so much to further my academic life, now Ill make myself available for the Congregation today; perhaps I can serve it more directly in some other way. The Congregation has been made great by a host of Salesians who have lived their lives with an absolute availability for the mission. A second thing seems to me to be very important along with this great sense of mission: cultivating like Don Bosco one single great concern: that for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. Not looking for anything else. The glory of God and the salvation of souls. This was the expression that for Don Bosco summed up everything, and that was at the heart of his apostolic and missionary zeal. This ought to be the mission that draws us, that makes us get up every morning and leads us to work untiringly. And so on day after day. Finally, a life lived with the awareness that the Spirit dwells within us; that we are called to live intensely Salesian spirituality; that same spirituality that has been so fruitful in our history. In fact it should be enough to recall how many members of the Salesian Family, living precisely that spirituality, have reached holiness. That is what I wanted to say to you, dear Confreres. Thank you very much Rome, 25 March 2008 Fr Pascual Chvez Villanueva Rector Major 4

...Message of the Provincial

FUNERAL ORATION AT THE FUNERAL MASS OF FR BENJAMIN PUTHOTA


Dear Fathers, Brothers, Sisters, Confreres, relatives of Fr Benji, Members of the Salesian Family, Friends and young people We are here today to give thanks to God for our beloved Fr Benjamin Puthota, who responded to the voice of the Lord who called him to commit his whole life with Don Bosco in the Congregation. As we commend to the Lord Fr Benji, with all his life of faith and service to the gospel and the path he traced out in the footsteps of Don Bosco, we pray on his behalf for the reward promised to the faithful servant: forgiveness, joy, light and eternal peace, a reawakening to the glory of the resurrection, so that he might contemplate forever the face of God. Fr Benjis sudden demise reminds me of the passage from St Lukes gospel: "See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks." Our Rector Major, Rev. Fr Pascual Chavez in his recent visit to Istanbul, announced to the public gathering there, that the best gift he could give to Turkey was none other than Fr 5 Benjamin Puthota. Today if he were here he would have said Fr Benjamin is a great son of Don Bosco and a stalwart and one of the greatest gifts God has given to Salesians of Don Bosco in the South Asian region. He has been a gift of God to all wherever he was sent. Having come to know Fr Benji more closely over the years in the service of animation and government of the Congregation, I am convinced that he deserves that blessing reserved for those who wait for the Lord, faithfully carrying out what they have been given to do: "Happy that servant if his master s arrival finds him at this employment." He was the first Salesian to set foot on the soil of Andhra Pradesh, the first Salesian Rector of our Hyderabad Province and the first Salesian Provincial of the Province of Hyderabad. Fr Benjamin Puthota leaves behind a great legacy of a heroic charismatic fervour for all of us to admire and imitate. In his life time he touched us in so many ways. We shared his gift of Faith. We have been lifted up by his enthusiasm and cheered by his smile and humour and warmed by his friendship. Thanks to his charismatic personality, the

Fr Benjamin with Fr Noel and Fr Balaswamy

June-September 2009

...Message of the Provincial


name Benji is immortalized! The very mention of that name lights up the atmosphere. It commands respect and showers affection. It stands for one we knew with a beaming smile, sparkling eyes and a charming word. As someone put it rightly, The one and only Fr Benji is no more! Another living Don Bosco has called it day!! Exactly a month ago he preached a retreat to the Rectors of my province with all vigour something typical of him. Later on 22 August I came to Chennai to bless a wedding. As Fr Benji was also invited I asked him to preach the homily. He spoke eloquently as ever. During the sign of peace he made sure to shake hands with every one. After the Holy Eucharist he met a lot of people and later just vanished. That was my last glimpse of him Among the many messages of condolence which continue to pour in I would like to read a mail from one of my friends, which touched me much: Everyday before I start my work I go on to the Hyderabad website and read the latest news and then resume to do my work, today when I opened I saw Fr Benjis photograph with the floral decoration I saw his image and I took for granted it will be some jubilee celebrations. Unconsciously something rang a bell within me asking me to look at it again and lo I saw the RIP, and my heart simply sank with deep sorrow. If affects me deeply and I have not got over the sadness mainly because he was somebody very close to you, as you looked upon him like a father, friend and a guide. He was like Don Bosco, every salesian who passed through his shadow will say, Benji loves me! I have only seen him several times when he visited the communities June-September 2009 where I lived. But through salesians I have heard a great deal about him, his goodness radiated in the mouths that spoke about him. They used to mention that he had soft corner and special consideration for Salesians who were in trouble, like a mother he would soothe and protect them. He affected many hearts in many different ways. He, certainly, is now smiling for ever, full of light, of joy, of love. We however, feel his absence. We shall miss his smile, his laughter, his shrewdness, his cheerfulness, his humility, his evangelical simplicity, his strong sense of being a Salesian, his love for Mother Mary, St Joseph and Don Bosco and the Congregation. I am sure that his death and his intercession will bear fruit. A Great Salesian His Salesian qualities are innumerable, and they are worth emulating: his loyalty to Don Bosco and his charisma, his love for the missions, his love for the boys, his tireless work, his spirit of joy and optimism. His enthusiasm and zest for life did not know limits. There was a contagious joy on his face. He carried with him a sense of wonder, humour and admiration. He had a contagious smile on him, and he laughed loud, radiating his enthusiasm to all those who lived with him. None of these qualities diminished with age. A Pastoral Heart Whatever be the task he was given he revealed his great pastoral zeal and love for the confreres and people to whom the Lord entrusted him. He was a pastor who knew his flock, and like the good shepherd he sought that which was lost, and brought back that which was driven away, and bound 6

...Message of the Provincial


up that which was broken, and strengthened that which was sick (Cf. Ez 34:16). A True son of Don Bosco His love for the Church, for Don Bosco and the congregation was proverbial. All who know him well would testify that he spoke of Don Bosco and the congregation in season and out of season. His heart was lit with the fire of passion, full of Don Bosco and his great zeal for souls. This zeal was expressed in his love for the missions and for his people. He made it a point to keep abreast with documents concerning the congregation and the Church. As a true son of Don Bosco, he imbibed a filial devotion to our Blessed Mother. Never ever have I heard him conclude any of his talks, speeches or sermons without mentioning Don Bosco and Mary. These were not merely words to be used but something that rose from deep within him, out of his sincere and strong conviction. A man of prayer Fr Benjamin Puthota was a man of deep personal and community prayer. That he valued prayer is evident from the thoroughness with which he prepared for and conducted the liturgical services. His prayer was joyful, an overflow of his own inner spiritual disposition. The Rosary and personal prayer became his constant moments of communion with the Lord whom he loved with all his heart. It was expressed also in his total resignation to the will of the Lord in his daily life. A daring Dynamic Pioneering leader Everyone was amazed at the prolific phase he established the formation houses and the basic infrastructure of The Salesian 7 Province of Hyderabad as its first Provincial. Everyone has only words of praise for the well planned provincial house. It still remains the best among the South Asian region. Appreciating his leadership qualities some secular friends perceived in him the qualities of a CEO of a corporate firm. In all his daring initiatives and times of crisis he would turn to intercede to his beloved patron St Joseph who never failed him. This was very evident as he chose St Joseph as the patron saint of both the Province of Hyderabad and the Vice Province of Sri Lanka. We all know well who Fr Benji was to us and to the congregation and the Church. More than sing the praises of Fr Benjis virtues, I want to thank the Lord, together with all of you for having given him to us, and to acknowledge the good that he, through the grace of God, has done in the Church and in the Congregation. Indeed his profound love for Christ and his Priesthood, his passion for Don Bosco and everything Salesian, his filial attachment to Mary Help of Christians, his trust in St Joseph, his daring leadership abilities, his eloquence and sharp knowledge of facts and above all, his knack at striking a personal rapport with all who meet him have made of him a legend and a household name! Fr Benji a cuddly name, an affectionate name. And today as we bid you goodbye, we would like to say we will miss you. You meant a lot to us and we continue to look upto you to inspire us, guide us and challenge us ! Thank you dear Fr Benji! May you enjoy eternal light, love and life in the presence of the Heavenly Father !!! Fr Maddhichetty Noel Provincial June-September 2009

Fr Benji's last days...

Reminiscing Fr Benjis last days in Hyderabad and Chennai


Salesian India Kotagiri and was literally woke up to ordained a priest on June 29, 1962. His a shocking and sad deep love for news on August 28, Mother Mary, 2009: the news that passionate love for Fr Benjamin Puthota breathed Don Bosco and his Salesian vocation his last. The fact that he was amidst nurtured by an ardent devotion to us just a couple of days ago in the pink St Joseph and a of his health and as preferential option robust and for the poor, gave enthusiastic as he him a special gift to always was, made get along with Fr Benji preaching the retreat in Hyderabad the news confreres and in unbelievable. Moreover, he himself told Fr getting the best out of them for the good of Paul Bosco and Br Julian Santi (confreres all. of Chennai Province), just before his departure to Turkey, that the doctors had After completing his term as the first given him a clean medical fitness certificate. Provincial of Hyderabad in 1998 he was But the fact remained; he had a cardiac asked to go to Sri Lanka and in 1999 was arrest on August 27, 2009 sometime late appointed delegate of the Sri Lankan evening (IST 22.00 hrs) while with his delegation, a responsibility he carried out community members. They were in his characteristic style. In 2003 he was rearranging their living quarters in the new called upon by Fr Pascual Chavez, the building when Fr Benji just collapsed and Rector Major himself, to go to Turkey, fell to the ground. Before anyone knew what Istanbul. Our Province was blessed with his visits though for a short while from time was happening he was no more. to time. He also made it a point to be here Fr Benjamin Puthota, was the 7th Provincial in India for the Centenary celebrations of of the Salesian Province of Chennai (then Salesian presence in India. With the Rector Madras, 1976-1982) and the first Provincial Major he was present also for the Province of the Salesian Province of Hyderabad level celebrations we had in February 2006. (1992-1998), besides being the Delegate His last and longest visit since then was the of the Sri Lankan Delegation from 1999- most recent one, when he was here to 2003. He was also the administrator at UPS, preach the retreat for the leaders of the Rome from 1982-1992. Born on January 5, communities and others in the last week of 1932 at Keelacherry, Tamilnadu, he made July 2009. Just before reaching Hyderabad his First Profession on May 24, 1952 at he made a brief visit to the north-east to June-September 2009 8

...Fr Benji's last days


say hello to his batchmates who had gathered for a meeting in Kolkata. He arrived in Hyderabad on July 25, 2009 from Chennai having preached the retreat for the Rectors of Chennai Province. During the nine days he spent in the Province, besides preaching the retreat, he visited quite a few confreres, communities and friends, in and around the city of Hyderabad. He met old acquaintances, fellow confreres and collaborators, had meals with them in their communities and houses and was keen on meeting more people but was certain that he wanted to be back home well on time to rest for the night! On the last day of the retreat he even made a dashing visit to Don Bosco Academy, Nalgonda. As for the retreat that he preached, he was well prepared as ever. This time he had got ready all his talks as presentations with the help of his young friends back in Turkey. The theme was nothing new to him the same as that of the GC 26. Listening to him, the retreatants were reminded of his days when he was the Provincial the same style, passion and clarity. The stingers that he occasionally let go, to remind all about the basics of religious and Salesian life, will long be remembered by the Rectors and other participants.

On August 3, 2009 was his flight back to Chennai. Fr Noel, the Provincial and Br C a s t i l i n o accompanied him to the airport and saw him off. He had a bear hug reserved for them both he before went in. Back On July 26, 2009 in Chennai he made when he visited the it a point to meet Salesian confreres around the mortal Church (under quite a few of his remains of Fr Benji construction) at St relatives. Confreres, T h e r e s a s , who were far away, somehow had a good Sanathnagar, he even addressed the reason to come to the city those days Salesian Cooperators unit there. He was all basically to meet him! Fr Benji expressed praise about the adoration Chapel and its his desire to visit some of the new regular use too. The two Sundays that he presences in Chennai and Fr Stannislaus, was in Hyderabad he presided over the the Provincial of Chennai, gladly facilitated Sunday English masses at Don Bosco this. He even accompanied him on these Shrine, Bandlaguda. In fact, the Provincial visits. house chapel was the parish church for several years before the Shrine came up. On 8th August 2009, he was one of the Parishoners, especially youngsters (who resource persons for the Chennai Province were then children and part of his choir or Young Priests Meeting held at Don Bosco altar servers) made it a point to attend his Youth Animation Centre (DBYAC) Ennore. Mass and stay long enough to have a word At the very outset he expressed his with him. And he remembered not just their immense love for his Mother Province, names and faces but their parents and Madras. Speaking on the theme of pranks too. They simply loved him for that. Priesthood, in this year of the Priest, he said 9 June-September 2009

Fr Benji's last days...


that he sincerely loved his Salesian priestly vocation and never regretted his choice. He was a happy and contented priest and always left his decisions to the will of God and the superiors. He said that about 96% of the priests were good and only a meager 4% were not up to the mark. Still the mass media publicized so much about this 4% forgetting about the other 98% - comparing this to a forest where a thousand trees grow healthily in silence, while one may fall down with a great thud - and everyone takes notice only of the fallen one! He said that as priests of the third millennium, there are and will be numerous problems of a varied nature, but in all this, a priest needs to purify the culture and not pollute it. He said that Love is the essence of the Preventive System. Every priest needs to radiate joy and sanctity. We need to become more like Jesus day by day. Every priest needs to take his pastoral ministry and to be ready to break ourselves to spread the Word. We Salesians, he said, have at our disposal, numerous institutions, which are our boats on a stormy sea, viz. our society. Therefore, though living in communities, may be for some of us the biggest penance, and our House Councils, may be seen as obstacles to what some may consider growth and expansion in the Mission, still, for us Salesians, we must always remember, especially us priests, that we are consecrated to Him and for Him, and that the priesthood is not a profession but a gift and a mystery which should make us acquire a spirituality of the Incarnation, because eventually, formation (initial or ongoing) is becoming sensitive to the actions of the Holy Spirit. Finally, he exhorted the group to always follow Don Bosco, nurture a love for the Madonna and to reflect and see if Jesus Christ is the primacy of our life and Mission. June-September 2009 In between addressing various groups of Salesian confreres and visiting places, he met several of his relatives in Chennai and in his hometown too. He was really in a holiday mood. Back at the Citadel (Provincial House, Chennai), he was all praise for the progress the Province made ever since he was the Provincial. The new structures in the campus, the manifold increase in the number of confreres, the new frontiers being explored and initiatives being undertaken were all part of what made Chennai province a Glorious Province, he would say! Early on August 25, 2009 he was dropped at the airport and Fr Stan was there to see him off. He reached back to his community in Istanbul (Turkey) the same day and the next to see him from India was Fr Maria Charles (who flew from Delhi to accompany him back to India) by then he was already asleep forever. The Province of Hyderabad joined in a commemorative Requiem Mass in his honour on August 31, 2009 at Don Bosco Shrine, Hyderabad. His mortal remains were brought back to Chennai, India on September 2, 2009 thanks to all those confreres and friends who helped in getting his body out of Turkey. There was a special Mass at St Marys Church, Chennai the same afternoon. Later in the evening the body was shifted to Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur where thousands of people paid their last respects. On September 3, 2009 the Funeral Mass was held at Sacred Heart, Tirupattur after which he was laid to rest at Don Bosco, Tirupattur, the first Salesian cradle of India. For now, Fr Benjamin, the beloved, rests in the Father! Fr Dominic Matthews (INM) & Br Vincent Castilino

10

...The 'Puthota' family tree

SKETCHING THE PUTHOTA FAMILY TREE


Note from the editor:
To sketch the family tree of the Puthota family is nothing less than a scientific work which involves a thorough research of the genealogy, geography, social, economic, cultural and most importantly, the historical factors involved. None the less what is produced here is an edited text of some basic ground work. However, there are no real proofs to validate what is presented or no claims made whatsoever, through this text. The only attempt is to make known and understand the rootedness of our dear Fr Benjamin Puthota. Any intention above and beyond this, is unwarranted.

to their strong determination, they were very successful in their undertakings and were a very hardworking lot. Later on this group spread out into other parts of Andhra (and Telangana) and also into Madras state which was then called Madras Presidency comprising of the geographical area of Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Kerala and Karnataka as they are now known to us. Their main occupation remained agriculture. Initiation into Christianity

In 1669 the French entered Andhra Pradesh and settled in The information Masilipatnam, a of three centuries As time passed by, like everyone else, though port town with a of Puthota this people became physically a bit weak yet, this harbour. Along Family tells us Puthota Family retained their tender-heartedness. with French that they Thanks to their strong determination, they were traders Christian belonged to very successful in their undertakings and were a F r e n c h Gandi Kota very hardworking lot. Missionaries area, a village that came to Andhra. still exists in Cuddapah District. Their During this period a family of three brothers Gothram is Sannaluru. Their family Ankinidi, Ghenghinidi and Dhasanna lived goddess was Zilli Pillelamma. Information in Vaddinidivaripalem. Dhasannas wife was at hand tells that they lived in a beautiful, good natured lady of fine Vaddinidivaripalem of Nellore district which character. She had no children. This is also close to Paradarikota of Cuddapah psychologically upset her very much as it district. They were originally Hindus. was considered to be a curse to be barren. In those years purdah (veil) was in practice During the period of King Krishnadevaraya, for all the ladies. They were supposed to most of this family members enrolled be inside the house and never show their themselves in his army either as soldiers or faces to any outsider. But Dhasannas wife army officers. Therefore an indication that in her deep sorrow would go out of their they were physically strong, robust and house in search of some comfort from some courageous people. As time passed by, like wise sages. Hence ladies of this family kept everyone else, though this people became her locked inside the house. But her physically a bit weak yet, this Puthota Family husband, Dhasanna was very considerate retained their tender-heartedness. Thanks Tracing back the origins 11 June-September 2009

The 'Puthota' family tree...


and understanding man. He would take special care of her, and hence did not let her be locked up. He would rather accompany her whenever she went out of the house. One day she went to Devanpalli village and there she entered a catholic church accidentally. A French priest was celebrating Holy Mass and there she stood in that church very devoutly till the end of the Mass, as if she followed it. Her husband too stood behind her piously and after Mass both went up to that priest. After exchanging pleasantries, they shared the sense of peace and calm they felt in the Church and during the ceremony. They poured out their sorrow before the Priest and finally asked for his blessing. When asked as to what would be the way to get rid of the curse of barrenness, the Priest catechized them about the healing power in the name of Jesus Christ. Thus began their regular pilgrimage to the Church and in the process gained greater knowledge of Jesus and His Gospel. The fact that Dhasannas wife conceived and was pregnant, further strengthened their desire to become Catholics. Soon they asked for baptism and were then baptized as Catholics. The exodus Later the couple returned to their village all jubilant and shared their experience with all their family members. All were happy about the physical healing of their sister-in-law but they were angry over their conversion to an unknown God and insisted that they reconvert to Hinduism. But the couple did not yield to their pressure, and soon were ostracized from the joint family. Having no where else to go, they returned to Devanpalli. After sometime the elder brothers of June-September 2009 Dhasanna, with their families, became Catholics too. Dhasanna had no issues. The whereabouts of Ghenghinidi familys are not known. Ankinidi had nine sons whose names are not known to us. Yet one of his grandsons family tree is available. This grandson also was called Dhasanna. This Dhasannas father seem to have settled in Krishna district, in Andhra in a place called Parasatthallur, near Amaravathi. The cousins of Ankinedu and Ghenghinidu, and Dhasannas family are still Hindus, settled in Nellore, Ananthapur and Cuddapah. The elder Dhasanna had eight children (sons). Of these, the eldest son Papiahs family and the other seven sons families settled in Guntur district in places like Ravipadu, Pathapalem, Kothapalem, Kanaparru, Kesanupalli, Thallecheruvu, Taththaluru, No.13 Thalluru, Patha Reddipalaem, Katrapadu, Pethaparinmi, Parsathalluru, Mussapuram, Sirupuram, Nararaopeta, Guntur and in Warangal district Narsampeta Taluk, Thimmarayaaannapadu. In Nizam district Bothan taluk, G.D. Jamilpur,Neelam, and in Khammam district Nayannrolu, Reddipalem. In Chingleput district in Madras state they settled down in Kilachery, Pannur, Valarpuram, Molasur in North Arcot district Nammiyandal. Of the many reasons, the exodus from the place of origin to the various other places took place chiefly because of the persecution wrought by the Nawabs army after it destroyed the church community in 1743. The converts chiefly went to settle in Guntur and in Chingleput district. Some others settled in Gandikota Sima in Guntur Mandal, some others settled in Parsathalluru, Narasaraopeeta and Ravipadu. Another story that is famous is that some of the Puthotas who came in touch with Christianity while at Ravipadu 12

...The 'Puthota' family tree


later settled down in Kambaladinna and Zilleru village from where Fr Manenthe, a missionary, took a group to Kilacherry. Most of those who moved out of their native places, for whatever reasons, and settled down elsewhere, hardly returned to their original place. The family then took roots wherever they settled down. Some of them, however returned, if only for a temporary period, for marriage alliances. By way of conclusion In recent years these family members are well educated, held/hold high offices; several of their children have become priests and religious. From the Guntur region alone there are atleast 15 Puthota Priests. We have strong reasons to believe that the Puthota family which reached Kilacherry and settled down there, is the same family which gifted us with Fr Benjamin Puthota. In all probability, Fr Benji too would have been very much aware not only being aware, he must have known much too of these facts/theories. Whether true or false, we cannot judge but one fact is beyond doubt: that Fr Benji knew one family, the family that he claimed to be part of wherever he went and his commitment to this family was total the Salesian family! Chronological list of presences/ communities/houses started during the time of Fr Benjamin Puthota (1992 1998)
Don Bosco Youth Animation Centre Hyderabad
(Later shifted to BIRDY in 1996)

1992

Bosco Institute of Electronics (BIE) Hyderabad Bosco Seva Kendra (BSK) Hyderabad Don Bosco Mission Complex Mariapuram Don Bosco Complex - Parish Wyra St Johns Minor Seminary Rebbavaram Don Bosco Parish Catholic Centre Ponnur Navajeevan Bala Bhavan Vijaywada
(Yuva Bhavan came up a year later)

1992 1992 1992 1993 1993

(this was handed over to diocese of Khammam in 1997)

1993 1993

OOTA - Legal Aid, PARA, BIRD Justice and Peace Centre Kurnool Sacred Heart Novitiate Chandur
(It was shifted to Manoharabad in July 1995)

1993 1993

Good to know
The highest secular exam that Fr Benji wrote was his MA (English literature) through correspondence in the Bhagalpur University in May 1963.

Provincial House, at its present location Hyderabad 1994 Don Bosco Parish, Bandlaguda Hyderabad Bosco Institute for Research and Development of Youth (BIRDY) Hyderabad Don Bosco Philosophate Peddapendyala Don Bosco Mission, Raptadu Anantapur Don Bosco Parish Mariapuram 1995

1996 1997 1997 1998

13

June-September 2009

Voices from the heart...

Voices from the heart...


Fr Benji was a very prudent person right since his younger days. He never indulged in idle talk or gossip or unhealthy grumbling, even as a young cleric. Perhaps it was this characteristic that made him concentrate better on serious matters. He knew what was expected of him and did it to the best of his abilities. He was never one to refuse what was asked of him by his superiors, especially the Rector Major. Though Fr Vigano and Fr Vecchi were his close friends, their requests were always the most primary tasks to be done with great diligence. Though he was looking forward to a more peaceful and sober life, when Fr Pascual Chavez asked him to take up the mission in Istanbul, he never hesitated. If God the Father and even Mother Mary were to forsake him, his most beloved heavenly patron, St Joseph would never refuse him! Such was his fervent faith in the head of the holy Family. Whenever he began a major new work, it had to be under the patronage of St Joseph. Fr Panampara Abraham (Was the pioneer of Salesian mission in Andhra Pradesh along with Fr Benji and Br Gabriel at Guntur in 1964. Later,he was in the Provincial Council while being the rector at PT Parru and Ponnur) The Archdiocese of Hyderabad fondly remembers his services towards the Church in Andhra Pradesh and in particular to the Church in the Archdiocese of Hyderabad. On behalf of the clergy, religious and laity of the Archdiocese of Hyderabad I express deep condolences to Salesian family. Most Rev. Marampudi Joji (from the condolence message of the Archbishop of Hyderabad who has known Fr Benji for more than two decades, ever since he was the Bishop of Khammam) Fr Benji reminds me of the biblical figure of the father of the prodigal son. He was so loving and compassionate towards all especially to those who went to him for comfort. He loved confreres so much that each one of us was convinced that he was the Benjamin of Fr Benji. Fr Garlapati Kishore (Was initially a practical trainee at Chandur and Nuzvid and belonged to one of the first groups of young clerics to be sent to Rome for theology and higher studies.)
June-September 2009 14

...Voices from the heart Fr Benji was a true Salesian who loved Don Bosco and the Salesian Congregation. He loved youth and tried to provide the best for them. He had a deep knowledge of Don Bosco and was a good animator. He was an able organizer and could get things done. His love for Don Bosco was so much that he was willing to go to any part of the world, ready to make any sacrifice for the growth of the Congregation. Fr Manthuruthil Abraham (Served as Administrator, Parish Priest and was subsequently made Rector at PT Parru, all during the term of Fr Benji) From the year 1971 when I came to Guntur as a young Salesian Priest till his death I was in touch with Fr Benji as my Rector, Vice Provincial and a confrere. I admire him for his wise decisions and earnestness in executing them, overcoming all difficulties, trusting in the Divine Providence. In fact he lived the motto of Archbishop Mathias: Dare and hope. Indeed he held no grudges against anyone and in return was loved by all. Fr Chinnappa Thomas (An old friend and trusted collaborator, who was at Punganur during 19921998. He was also a member of the first Provincial Council) Father Benji had a great Salesian charisma about him, which permeated every place he stepped into. He had this flame with which he easily set ablaze our hearts for Don Bosco. He had the Good Shepherds voice leading us through Blessed Virgin Mary to Jesus; truly a visionary with a clear mission, Thanks for what he was, and thanks for what is still to come from him, from above. Fr Cheruvathur James (Was appointed dean of studies at Don Bosco, Gunadala and later did a stint as administrator of St Antonys, Kadapa and finally was at Chandur as Vice Rector, Parish Priest, Warden during 1992-1998) Fr Benji was a very lovable and affectionate person. He related with everyone as his special friend and father. He took the first step to relate with people and made them feel at home in his company. He was a man of credibility. He gave respect and commanded respect. He gently supported many clerics and helped many to overcome the difficulties especially during their practical training period. He will remain as the living hallmark of Salesian charism and joy, especially for me. Fr Mallavarapu Rayanna (One of those young clerics then, to be sent for studies in Philosophy to JDV, Pune) Along with you we thank God for the gift of him for he served so many years in the family of Salesians. Thousands of people have experienced Gods love and care through him. We have great joy and appreciation for his selfless and committed service. Sr Clementa SAP (St Anns Provincialate, Visakhapatnam)
15 June-September 2009

Voices from the heart... He was a very good man who made no distinctions or differences between anyone. He had a very kind and generous heart too. Whenever we staff members were in any difficulty, he would sense it before hand and be the first to come forward to help. The opportunity that he gave me to work in the Provincial house changed my life immensely. It was he who told me to join for the house keeping work in the Provincial house and I will ever be grateful to him for that generous offer. Ms Venkayamma (Has known Fr Benji since the time the Provincial house was being constructed in 1993) Fr Benji was a very prayerful person who loved Mary and St Joseph. The best I liked in him was his encouraging nature. He was always enthusiastic about boosting the confidence of young confreres and he had a grace in doing so. I also liked him very much for he was very reasonable in his approach to any situation in life. Fr Vetakula Gnanam (His stint as a printer began at St Michaels Boys Home, Guntur during the term of Fr Benjis leadership) Fr Benjamin loved children and youth. He carried the young in his heart. He loved everybody as a father. He worked like a young man with lot of enthusiasm and energy; a trustworthy and prudent confrere. Fr Benji was one of the most spiritually rich and complete confrere that India had given to the Church and to the congregation. Fr Frisoli Pier Fausto (Regional of Italy and Middle-East, during the funeral Mass of Fr Benji in Turkey) My personal experience with Fr Benji is unforgettable. I worked with him for five years. All those years I never saw him angry. He was always smiling and joyful. Though he was the Provincial he always interacted with the staff freely and was sensitive to our problems and needs. Fr Benji never treated anyone like employees; we were always part of the family to him. Even during his last visit he was the same Fr Benjamin whom I knew for so many years: joyful, sensitive and loving. Ms Rani (Provincial House Staff Accounts department one of the first staff to be appointed at the beginning of the Province) Please accept our sincere condolences from all us Srs. of St Ann of Providence, special note from all the sisters who were helped by him in his time as Provincial. May his soul rest in peace and may his tribe increase, a true son of Don Bosco, loved by us too. Sr Monica Francis SAP (present Provincial Superior of the Secunderabad Province in her condolence message to the Province)
June-September 2009 16

...Voices from the heart I, then as Provincial Councillor, got to know dear Fr Benjamin in the early ninetys when he and his Council were a great help to us in drawing up our Educational Pastoral Project etc. Ever since we got to know him the bonds of friendship between our two Religious families got stronger and our visits to each other grew more frequent. He would affectionately call us his aunties because of the rapport Don Bosco had with our Marchioness Giulia di Barolo. Most of our Sisters who worked in our different Communities in the twin cities and have experienced his brotherly love and concern will be pained by this great loss. He was indeed a man of great determination and dedication, a shining example of humility and simplicity, a lover of the youth, especially the poor and a great inspiration to us of conviction and commitment. Sr Ernestine Fernandes (Superior General, Srs of St Ann of Providence, Rome) Fr Benji had a knack of making friendship in the first contact. He would always strike as someone capable of trust and would therefore build rapport within a few moments of conversation. Moreover Fr Benji knew how to keep alive that friendship and rapport in his own characteristic ways. His vision was always big. Small things never appealed to him. He had his eyes set far beyond the here and now. He would talk of how things would be 20 or 30 years from now. Fr Benji knew how to get the best out of his confreres for the good and growth of the Province and the congregation. No matter how difficult a temperament or how stubborn one could be, he would get him around to do what he wished and that too willingly. Such was his power of persuasion and contagious zeal. His enthusiasm for life, Don Bosco and the congregation too was inexhaustible and contagious! Fr Medabalimi Balaswamy (Vice Provincial during Fr Benji's term) Greetings of peace in the Lord from the diocese of Vijayawada! We are sorry to hear the news about the demise of Fr Benjamin Puthota sdb. My heartfelt condolences to all the Salesian Priests of Hyderabad province. May God grant eternal rest to Fr Benjamin Puthota sdb. Most Rev. Bp Prakash Mallavarapu (part of the condolence message of the Bishop of Vijayawada)
17 June-September 2009

Voices from the heart... It is very difficult to compare Fr Benjamin with anyone or anyone to him. Every time I met him, right since the time I joined the Bandlaguda Parish till I met him recently after the weekday and Sunday Holy Mass, he was the same: simple, jovial and affectionate. In the Parish here, whenever we heard that he is around, we eagerly looked forward to meet and talk to him. Mr Francis (a Parishioner at Don Bosco Shrine, Bandlaguda) For me Benji was a man with a vision spurred on by his love for Don Bosco and the congregation and he would go to any length to realize this vision whatever be the cost. He would encourage and support anyone who shared this vision and the task at hand. They knew that they could depend on him and he too depended on them, as he was a man who could generate confidence. This would also mean that he was willing to apologize and ask pardon of those whom he might have hurt. He had a great concern for others. Those who confided in him with any problem- personal or otherwise always received support, encouragement and other helps. He always wished to be kept informed and his helping hand would be ready at hand. I have personally felt his deep concern for his collaborators. As Economer I had to go often to Karunapuram or Manoharabad (the buildings were under construction) and return sometimes after 10 pm and I was sure to find Benji waiting at the entrance even through it was his habit to retire to bed by 9.00 pm. Best of what I liked in him was his availability for the confreres. He would avoid spending time or visiting his relations and dear ones and his time was totally for the confreres. Time and space was never to be a barrier if anyone wanted to speak to him. Fr Benji has always been an asset as an animator even after his term to enthuse us with his love for Don Bosco. In his passing away we have lost a leader, able administrator and a loving friend. Fr E J Mathew (The first Provincial Economer and close collaborator of Fr Benji, especially during his term as Provincial) His dynamism was contagious. He always thought big: big for Don Bosco, big for Mary Help of Christians and big for God, with not even the faintest shading of self promotion. In a lighter vein we can say that his trademark style would be: Even if you are running a brothel, make sure it is the best in town. Fr Pallithanam Thomas (The one who started PARA during Fr Benjis tenure as Provincial)

June-September 2009

18

...Voices from the heart He was indeed a great and dynamic Salesian; very loving and affectionate in his rapport with the confreres. May the Good Lord grant him everlasting Peace! Our heartfelt condolence to the Provincial and Confreres of Hyderabad Province which has been blessed with his pioneering leadership. Fr Antony Earathara SDB (part of the condolence message on behalf of the Salesian Province of Kolkata INC) Fr Benji was a visionary who initiated several apostolates in the Province as the first Provincial. Never one to flag in zeal, he relentlessly pursued what was good for the new Province and encouraged others too to join in. Br Chinnabathuni Gregory (The first Telugu Salesian Brother and a printer by profession) It was a happy time that I can recall when Fr Benji was here as our Provincial. I still recall his ever enthusiastic spirit, smiling face and personal touch to each and every one. It was a joy to have him with us for those years in which we experienced Gods love tangibly through him. Ms Maria (Receptionist at the Provincial House since its inauguration in 1994)

Good to know

During his recent visit to Chennai, Fr Benji with great confidence claimed to have never missed celebrating Holy Mass ever, in his 47 years of Priesthood not a single day of his Priestly life!

19

June-September 2009

Timeline...

Timeline
Date/year 05-01-1932 15-01-1932 09-02-1941 1950 1951-1952 24-05-1952 19521954 1954 19541955 19551957 19571958 1958 20-05-1958 19581962 25-05-1960 06-12-1961 29-06-1962 19621963 19631964 19641968 19681969 19691973 19731976 03-08-1976 24-11-1976 19821992 Place Kilachery, Tamil Nadu Kilachery, Tamil Nadu Kilachery, Tamil Nadu Sacred Heart Matriculation School, Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu Sacred Heart College, Tamil Nadu Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu Our Lady of Refuge, Chennai, Tamil Nadu PT & Student (BA) Don Bosco, Mumbai Graduation Studies (BA) Calcutta University, Salesian College, Sonada, West Bengal Perpetual Profession Sonada, West Bengal Theology Sacred Heart, Mawlai, Shillong Acolyte (by Bp S. Fernando) Mawlai, Shillong Deacon (by Bp S. Fernando) Mawlai, Shillong Priestly Ordination Chennai, Tamil Nadu Pastoral Year Our Lady of Refuge, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Catechist & Prefect St Josephs, Katpadi, Tamil Nadu In charge Guntur, Andhra Pradesh Spiritual Theology P.A.S., Rome Rector St Michaels Boys Home, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh Vice-Provincial of Madras Province The Citadel, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Appointed Provincial of Madras The Citadel, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Took charge as Provincial The Citadel, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Administrator & Director of the office of Development and Public Relations UPS, Rome Took charge as Provincial Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Provincial: Province of St Joseph, Hyderabad Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Vice Rector Dankotuwa, Sri Lanka Delegate Colombo, Sri Lanka Rector Istanbul, Turkey Died Istanbul, Turkey Event / Responsibility Born Baptism Confirmation High School Studies/ Matriculation Novitiate First Profession Philosophy Higher Secondary Studies Philosophy Practical Training (PT)

24-04-1992 19921998 19981999 19992004 20042009 27-08-2009

June-September 2009

20

...New frontiers

A Modern Salesian Oratory


The Children Parliaments started by the Bosco Seva Kendra (BSK) the Development office of the Salesian Province of the Hyderabad in the various villages of Andhra Pradesh continues to bring smiles on the faces of the children and the people around. One such, modern Salesian oratory was started in a small hamlet called Mannuru Chinna Pattapupalem of Prakasam District in 2007. Today the Collector of Ongole district knows all the ministers of this parliament! Mannuru Chinna Pattapupalem is one of the neglected hamlets in the Ongole district of Andhra Pradesh. All the people in this hamlet solely depend upon the sea for their livelihood. Children of this hamlet have been discussing about the problems and appealing to the concerned authorities for the development of the hamlet. These children were assisted by their animator Mr Amurthapani. For six months they kept knocking on the doors of various authorities beginning with the village sarpanch (president) Mr V. Mohan Rao, who also severed as Member of Mandal Praja Prarishat (MPP). Parliament members also met and gave a written request to the Mandal Revenue Officer (MRO) and Mandal Development Officer (MDO), about the repair of the Street lights and good drinking water. When all these people looked down on the request made by children, they agreed in the parliament to take up the matter with the District Collector on a Monday, during his weekly public audience. Since they had exams, they decided to take up these matters after the exams. These issues were once again discussed in the meeting held towards the end of May 2009 and since such matters come under the purview of the Home minister, it was decided that, Bharathi the Home minister would lead the delegation. Though at first all the members decided to go as a team but keeping in mind the expenses, they decided to send just five ministers along with the home minister. The others accompanying Bharathi were K. Prasana - Gender Minister, N. Sudha Rani - Health Minister N. Roothamma - Speaker, N. Janaki - Finance Minister and K. Jyothi - Member. On 8th June 2009 the above mentioned ministers met the District Collector (DC). Prior to it the children were noticed by the journalists who also interviewed them. Children were bold enough to tell them that they too have the right to meet the collector and make an appeal to look into the long delayed problems of their hamlet. Motivated by their interest the journalists accompanied the children to the collector. When the DC caught sight of the children, he was at first amused and then quite surprised. He made a few queries and immediately asked the District Panchayat Officer (DPO) to look into matter and do the needful at the earliest. The DPO promised that he will do the needful in ten days. Today Mannuru Chinna Pattapupalem not only has street lights and good drinking water but also enjoys the special patronage of the DC thanks to these children and their social consciousness. Through a very regular and spirited intervention by the ground staff, especially Mr Ramanjineyu (John) BSK Prakasam District Coordinator, the civic authorities are now on the alert. Children are being conscientised and in the process, parents too get involved. The results of such sustained efforts are seen, especially when children shine forth in championing the causes of change and transformation, not just in their homes but in their neighbourhood and villages as well. Fr Bellamkonda Sudhakar & Mr Ramanjineyu BSK Prakasam District Coordinator 21 June-September 2009

New frontiers...

WOMEN WIN THEIR WAGE STRUGGLE AT PULIDINDI


This is the success story of 354 women who collectively struggled for 24 days (not counting the years they bore the yoke of oppression) to make sure that they receive a fair deal for their daily toil. When the dalit women of Pulidindi village began their struggle, little did they realize that they were going to make a quantum jump in their wages. On 15th June the Dalit Bahujan Shramik Union - AP had launched a state level campaign on Minimum Wages. Now these dalit women of Konaseema found themselves at the forefront of the struggle, that too when everyone in the state thought that their wages would be among the highest, being in the most fertile region of the state. What they have achieved could perhaps only be the beginning of things to come in the development of the Dalit Bahujans in Andhra Pradesh. Konaseema area is the most fertile land in Andhra Pradesh, situated at the delta of the mighty Godavari river. Here anything grows at any time of the year because of the abundance of water. Yet in some of the villages the daily wages are abysmally low, a paltry 40 rupees a day. The dalit women of Pulidindi village, in Athreyapuram Mandal, realized that the wages they were receiving were not adequate. With the prices of food and other essential commodities spiralling high, they decided to demand better wages. As no farmer listened to their timid pleas, they grew bolder and finally decided to strike work from 19th July this year. Soon the rest of the village got galvanised into action and joined the dalit women. They had been asking for just a pittance, an increase of Rs 10 a day. The farmers were merciless and refused. On the 6th day they approached Peoples Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) for support and guidance. Mr Yosebu, PARA staff and the District Coordinator of the Dalit Bahujan

June-September 2009

22

...New frontiers
Shramik Union - AP, responded immediately along with the union members. They hiked the demand to the legal minimum wages, viz., Rs 139.00 per day. Even as the strike got prolonged, the Union supported the people to the hilt. 18th August, 21st day of the struggle, saw negotiations in the labour office at Kothapeta, 28 kms from the village. The people went in big numbers in hired vehicles to participate in the negotiations. But the big land lords kept away. The next meeting on 19th August was at the Pulidindi Panchayat itself in the presence of the Assist. Labour Commissioner. A third round of negotiations took place on 20th August in the presence of the Mandal Revenue Officer, again ineffective because the big land lords refused to participate. On 21st August, on the 24th day of the strike, people were indeed getting desperate, being without work and wages for so long. The farmers were still refusing to listen to them and come to a compromise. The government failed them in not supporting them or providing work under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, the flagship programme of the UPA government. Now the activists and DBSU-AP leaders in the state capital, Hyderabad, swung into action - to pressurise the state government to act, the labour department to ensure minimum wages and the department of Rural Development to implement NREGA. On 21st the negotiations went on beyond midnight with the women becoming very vocal about their demands. They were determined to clinch the deal at all costs. Their leader at one point shamed the farmers to pay at least half the legal minimum wage - a mere seventy rupees. What began as a demand of just Rs 10.00 a day now rose to Rs 30/-. The people were happy because they got far more than they had initially bargained for, a hefty 75% increase at one go. In absolute terms, if they work for 300 days a year, this was an increase of Rs 9000 per person or 40 lakhs for the village union. You can imagine the difference when they will begin to get their legal minimum wage of Rs 139 per day, double the present wage. Evidently no government scheme or welfare programmes of NGOs can equal this just and dignified gain of the women. The dalit women clinched their victory as the feast of the Queenship of Mary was dawning. These victorious women sang Marys song in their own way: The Lord puts forth his arm in strength... He casts the mighty from their seats and raises the lowly. Fr John Tharakan 23 June-September 2009

Snippets...

SNIPPETS
CONGRATS
to the 9 deacons (Yeruva Arogya, Gopu Peter, Godugunuru Chinnappa, Pasala Bhaskar, Thomas Aquinas, Nagothu Kishore, Yeruva Pradeep, Kakumanu Joseph and Govindu Joseph) who were ordained for our Province in SHTC (Shillong), KJC (Bangalore), UPS (Rome) and St Pauls (Ratisbonne) over the last couple of months. We look forward to your Priestly ordinations.

WELCOME

to Fr Chinnabathuni Showrilu who returned to the Province after completing his Masters thesis Elements of the youth Spirituality Apologetics and Pedagogy in the Five Educative Narrations of Don Bosco in Rome. He is already at work in the Novitiate (as administrator) and will also take up Vocation Promotion soon.

PROVINCIAL CHAPTER (PC7) of our Province starts off on November 30, 2009
and concludes with the Provincial Community day on December 4, 2009.

CONDOLENCES to the PIME society and the diocese of Warangal


at the demise of Fr Augustine Colombo, an Italian missionary, who spent his entire life, energy and resources for spreading the Kingdom of God in the Warangal district. He passed away on August 30, 2009.

ALL THE BEST to the three confreres already in Italy for their ministry: Frs Prathap,
Anil and Alex. They left on August 17, 2009. They will join their respective communities on October 4, 2009.

REMINDER about the Provincial Consultation forms that are to reach Fr Maria Arokiam
Kanaga, the Regional Councillor for South Asia by the end of September 2009. He will still be in Tiruchy Province for the Extraordinary Visitation around that time.

CONGRATS

to Fr Harrie Kanters sdb of SAMEN, an organization that has sent Dutch volunteers to Salesian projects all around the world for the past 25 years, at being chosen for the prestigious Dutch national award for promotion of Justice and Peace in Netherlands. He was in India, along with 13 volunteers, when the announcement was made.

June-September 2009

24

...Snippets

COMING UP in October (16-18) is the Global Campaign Against Poverty


(GCAP) inviting us all to join the world all over in growing in awareness and action towards a better world.

GET WELL dear Fr Abu and Br Kalyan. Both are responding well to the treatment and
are expected to recover fully by this year end. However as good Salesians they are full time on their feet in their respective places.

BON VOYAGE Cl. Nathan will soon be flying to Italy (Florence, in particular) to
commence his ministry there. Cl .Gaddam Carlo is all set to fly to Germany to begin studying the language.

ALL THE BEST for Neelam Ratna and Gali Naresh as they commence their
theological studies, at Ratisbonne (Jerusalem) and UPS (Rome) respectively.

INAUGURATION of the new Technical school building at Ongole is slated


for October 29, 2009 (feast of Don Rua). Wishes to Fr KP Mathew, confreres and boys!

JUBILEE of Fr M.S. Michael will be celebrated at St Michaels Boys Home, Guntur on October 8, 2009 50 golden years of generous service as an SDB! We are proud of you dear Fr Michael!

Good to know
Besides basic philosophy and theology, the only other Ecclesial studies Fr Benji ever did was a one year course in Christian Spirituality at the Gregorian University (19681969). Prior to it and after this he was in Guntur.

25

June-September 2009

Salesian Local News...

Salesian Local News


OUR LIFE AND MISSION THROUGH THE HUMAN RIGHTS PRISM
Br Vincent Castilino A two-day workshop aimed at re-looking the life and mission of the Hyderabad Salesian Province, through the human rights prism was held from June 4, 2009 at Don Bosco Provincial House, Hyderabad. Forty-five Salesians and lay people from a wide range of fields were engaged in exploring ways and means of doing the ordinary things in a new way with a greater humane touch! Initiating this adventure was Mr K.R. Venugopal, former Secretary to three former Prime Ministers and special rapporteur for Natioinal Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Other highlights of the day included the Silver Jubilee of Priesthood of two confreres and inauguration of the refurnished Rinaldi Hall. making them dependent on us, was felt as one of the real challenges for many Salesians and religious, in general. The drawing up of a list of non-negotiable attitudes and practices in each sector of our ministry was the highlight of the day.

EVALUATING EMPOWERMENT TECHNIQUES: VISIT OF MR JOCHIM (DMOS-COMIDE)


Mr Sudheer & Mr Anil Empowerment requires three things: knowledge, skill and commitment. These were the key words resounding at the midterm evaluation of the Programme Project by Mr Jochim Lourduswamy, the Country Advisor (India) DMOS-COMIDE, Belgium which concluded on July 16, 2009 at Don Bosco Provincial House, Hyderabad. The concluding session was a collective sharing of ideas for which nearly 40 coordinators, and Public Relation Officers (PROs) of the Community Based Organisations (CBO) and Technical, Vocational, Educational and Trainings (TVET) were present. The day long meeting stressed on strengthening collaboration with other centres and providing capacity building

The second day of the Human Rights seminar took off from the previous days attempts to explore possibilities of enhancing the rights perspective in our apostolate. The presentations, group and panel discussions highlighted the need to be with the people in order to help them fight for their rights. That people need to be conscientized about their rights without June-September 2009 26

...Salesian Local News


measures for people in local centres. There were suggestions also to develop innovative methods for a deeper knowledge of the Programme Project itself. Since empowerment demands knowledge, skill and commitment, it was felt that these should be focused upon, not only by the coordinators but the beneficiaries as well. Local communities were asked to periodically have evaluation on how activities could bring about change and growth in the society and stressed on making the people independent. He was very much impressed with our management of information system, documentation, reporting of Finance, activities and results monitoring. Mr Jochim appreciated the hard work and efforts of BSK under the leadership of Fr Sudhakar, in bringing out lot of change in the development office set up, systematic arrangement of files and prompt reporting of information to DMOSCOMIDE, Belgium, whenever requested. ceremonies of the evening commenced with Rev. Fr T.D. John, the former Rector of the community, blessing the tombs of Br Gabriel Fernandez and Fr John Varicatt. Besides the Salesians of the Province, several religious and priests of Karunapuram, the students of Vishwa Jyothi College and the relatives of Bro. Gabriel, from Kollam, Kerala, participated in this service. For the occasion, the cemetery (even Fr John Varricatt too is laid to rest there) was done up, aesthetically.

NEW PRINTING PRESS INAUGURATED AT DBNJ, HYDERABAD


Fr John Tharakan

FIRST DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF BR GABRIEL FERNANDEZ


Fr Maliekal Jose On 22 July, 2009, the Salesian Community of Don Bosco Philosophate, Karunapuram, solemnized the first death anniversary of Rev. Br Gabriel Fernandez, SDB. The

The Hyderabad centre for street and working children has a new printing press. It was inaugurated on 24th July 2009. The Archbishop of Hyderabad, Msgr. Marampudi Joji presided over the brief ceremony and blessed the new premises in the presence of Fr Noel Maddhichetty, the provincial, Fr Gopu Anand, the former director, Fr Harrie Kanters (from Holland) and a host of other invitees from the Salesian family, diocese and well-wishers. During the brief ceremony that lasted barely 45 minutes, Fr Salibindla Balashowry, the current diector of Don Bosco Nava Jeevan

27

June-September 2009

Salesian Local News...


centre for street and working children, welcomed the colourful gathering of the boys, staff, neighbours, friends and wellwishers. Fr Gopu Anand, the former director, explained the story of the press beginning from the first ideas, the friends who contributed and the hopes for the future. Fr Noel, the provincial and the founder of this Nava Jeevan project spoke very effusively of the good work that is being done and the possibilities that the new press throws up for the skills training of the boys and as a communication centre. Frequent mention was made by the various speakers about Fr Franz Schobesberger sdb and his Austrian friends who made this possible through the generous contributions that they were able to generate. Ms Julie Iyer, a noted educationist cum psychologist from Secunderabad, was the chief resource person for this event. She first helped the group identify the challenges that educationists today face as compared to 15 years ago. She then pointed out the positive developments including the technological advances over these years. Besides these main points she also stressed on the need to help children gain life skill besides study skills. Highlighting the role of the teacher and his or her use of creativity and insightful expertise, she spoke to the group about nurturing a positive learning environment in their educational practices, carefully avoiding the mentality that one size fits all! The second day session touched upon the know-how of the state educational policies and human rights education (HRE) programme in all our schools, the directives regarding the minority status institutions, scholarships, privileges and duties of Christian institutions in the state and a review of the resolutions of the previous years meeting. The culmination was the drawing up of the policies and guidelines for the year ahead.

REDISCOVERING SALESIAN EDUCATIONAL EFFICIENCY: SEMINAR ON EDUCATION


Br Vincent Castilino A workshop on increasing the effectiveness of our Salesian educational system commenced on July 25, 2009 at BIRDY, Hyderabad. Bringing together the Salesian Family for this occasion was the Education Commission of the Province, under the leadership of Fr Madanu Rayappa. There were 23 Salesians participating in this twoday programme (9 FMAs, 4 MSMHCs, 2 lay collaborators and 8 SDBs).

ANNUAL RETREATS
The Province had its opportunity of spiritual renewal through the two retreats that were held so far in the Province. The first reteat was preached by Fr Benjamin Puthota from July 27, 2009 to August 1, 2009. The second was animated by Fr Dominic Veliath from September 7 to 12, 2009. Both the retreats were held in the Provincial house, Hyderabad and totally, 47 confreres made their retreat. The final retreat for this academic year (general patronage) is scheduled for the second week of February (8-13) 2010. It will be preached by Fr Kunduru Joji SJ.

June-September 2009

28

...Salesian Local News CO-OPERATORS DAY AT GUNADALA


Cl. Lakkisetti Praveen The caption sharers of Salesian charism rightly encapsulates the celebration of the Co-operators Day at Don Bosco, Gunadala. The feast of Pope Pius X, the patron of the Salesian Co-operators` was celebrated amidst great grandeur in the evening hours of 21st August 2009. The aspirantate, which can truly boast of being one of the oldest cooperators unit, was vibrant with joy as a number of Salesian Co-operators` flowed into the campus towards the fall of the day for the great celebration. The programme began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Rev. Fr Chinnabathuni Louis, the rector. There were about twenty five co-operators present for the solemn Eucharist, while others joined in for the programme that followed later. Fr Louis enumerated the role of the Cooperators and unfolded the mind of Don Bosco for the Co-operators and their contribution in the Church. Highlighting the importance of the day, Fr Louis drove home the message to be the change makers in the rhythm of the world and its order. The chief guest for the programme was Dr Velaga Joshi, chief executive officer, KRISHI, Vijayawada. Twenty five poor boys and girls were sponsored clothes and books for the academic year on this day. a training on the concepts and functioning of State Level Federation of MACS. This is indeed a great step forward in empowering the women of Andhra Pradesh, socially, economically and culturally. The best part of this Federation is that it will ensure their self sustainability even after the completion of the programme project (a project coordinated by the Development office of the Salesian Province of Hyderabad, Bosco Seva Kendra). After the establishment of the Board of Directors, the members elected Ms Parishudham from Swayam Krushi Urban Macs, Vijayawada, Krishna District as their president.

CERTIFICATION DAY DB PLUS, HYDERABAD


Mr Sudheer

EMPOWERING WOMEN: FORMATION OF STATE LEVEL FEDERATION


Fr Thomas Santiagu The 6th of September 2009 was a great day to remember for the underprivileged women of Andhra Pradesh when a State Level Federation for Women had its fist meeting on the 1st and 2nd of September. Forty two representative members of 14 Mutually Aided Co-operative Societies (MACS) had 29

After 25 exciting days of DB Plus training for Job seekers (technicians), 57 young men with grateful hearts and cheerful faces received a certificate from Fr Maddhichetty Noel, the Provincial on the birthday of Our Lady (September 8, 2009). Out of the 60 who joined this programme held at Don Bosco Prem Seva Sadan, Hyderabad, 57 already had in hand the appointment letters to prestigious companies with promise of a thick pay too!! This occasion marked the conclusion of the three week training camp organized at Vanasthalipuram by the DHISHA team, headed by Fr Bellamkonda Sudhakar and ably supported by Cl. Gaddam Carlo, Mr Mohan and Mr Anil. June-September 2009

Salesian National News...

National News
SPCSA REFLECT ON SALESIAN FORMATION
Fr K J Louis The annual assembly of the Salesian Provincials Conference of South Asia (SPCSA) concluded on August 12, 2009 at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Hyderabad. A special feature of this assembly was a two-day reflection on Salesian Formation at the pre-novitiate and post-novitiate levels. The reflection was facilitated by Fr Francesco Cereda, General Councillor for Formation and Fr Chrys Saldanha from the Department of Formation in Rome. The content and methods of formation, the training of the formation guides, as well as various issues connected with the formation of Salesians in South Asia were examined. One of the special concerns of the members was the postnovitiate phase of the Salesian Brothers training. gathered around the Sisters of Maria Auxilium (SMA) to thank God for the official recognition of their Congregation into the Salesian family. The SMA Congregation founded on 13th of May 1976, by Fr M. C. Antony, was officially given the status of becoming a member of the Salesian family by the Rector Major and his Council on the 16th of July 2009. Today the SMA congregation has 111 professed members, working in 25 institutions spread over 9 dioceses and four states in India.

FOUNDATION STONE LAID FOR THE NEW SALESIAN THEOLOGATE


Fr Matthews Dominic (INM) On 10th, July 2009, the foundation stone for the new Salesian theologate was laid near the premises of Don Bosco Anbu Illam, Kavarapettai (50km from Chennai). This Salesian theologate is a joint venture of the provinces of Chennai and Tiruchy. Most. Rev. Dr. A. M. Chinnappa, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore, laid the foundation stone and while addressing the gathering said that the principle purpose of this Salesian theologate is to contextualize theology whereby we could fulfill the needs of the poor and the marginalized.

SMA 27TH MEMBER OF THE SALESIAN FAMILY


Fr Michael Raj (INM) It was a moment of great joy and jubilation at the SMA Generalate at Madhavaram, Chennai, on the 17th of August 2009, as various members of the Salesian family June-September 2009

Good to know
In October 1980 Fr Benji was appointed as the national animator of the Salesian cooperators by the Salesian Provincial Conference of India (SPCI). He was also the delegate of the Salesian Cooperators, in Madras Province when he was the Vice-Provincial (1973).
30

...Salesian International News

International News
CEFERINO: FRANGRANCE OF HIS SPIRITUALITY ATTRACTS PILGRIMS (ARGENTINA)
(ANS Chimpay) The pilgrimage which was held in Chimpay, on 29 August, for the anniversary of the birth of Blessed Ceferino Namuncur, was the largest in the last thirty years. The faithful began travelling at first light. Whole families with young and old undertook the long journey to. Large numbers on foot and on horseback left their own villages to celebrate the feast of Blessed Ceferino. About 40,000 in total were present. Earlier in the second week of August 2009 the Casket bearing the remains of Blessed Ceferino Namuncura, was moved from the Mary Help of Christians Shrine in Fortin Mercedes to the Mapuche settlement of St Ignatius in Neuquen. It was a very moving moment when thousands of hands were raised on high as the great sea of the faithful which stretched to the horizon prayed for hope, for good health, for work, or simply as an expression of their deep faith. It was something which will remain fixed in the hearts and minds of all those present because faith, as Oscar, one of the Chimpay pilgrims said, needs to be practised. And this also means shaking the hand of a stranger. Once again this year the feast of Ceferino has been an expression of faith and of commitment to the Church, as each individual determines to change their life and to become more united with those most in need.

SALESIAN PAST PUPIL WINS MICROSOFT COMPETITION (EGYPT)


(ANS Cairo) On September 1, 2009 Enrique Perticarati and Alexander Nacari, Computer Technology Laboratory Assistants in the Scientific University of the State of San Paolo University (UNESP) Brazil, have won the first prize in the Interface Imagine Cup category - an annual competition organised by Microsoft. Perticarati completed his studies at the Don Bosco Salesian Institute of Piracaba, Brazil in 2005. Both have received a prize of 8,000 American dollars.

ANOTHER SALESIAN ON THE WAY TO THE ALTARS (RWANDA)


(ANS Butare) Father Ren-Marie Picron (Brusells, 1906 Butare, 1991) could be the next Salesian to be proposed as a Servant of God. In the view of the Postulator General, this is the person in Salesian Africa today who has enjoyed the greatest reputation for holiness. He was the delegation superior for Congo, then provincial in Belgium from 1952 to 1959, when North and South Belgium, Congo, Rwanda and Burundi made up a single Salesian Province. It was Father Picron who energetically fostered the religious independence of the Congo. So when the Central Africa Province was created in 1959 he made himself available for this province. Over ten years he was rector, director of novices, teacher, confessor spiritual director, province delegate for the past pupils, music teacher and animator of various mission activities.

31

June-September 2009

Salesian International News... CONFRONTO 2009: A SPLENDID FAMILY ATMOSPHERE (ITALY)


(ANS Turin) In August 2009 hundreds of young people spent five days reliving the oratory of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello in Turin, Italy. Titled Confronto Europe 2009 the gathering was organized by the youngsters themselves. The Youth pastoral councilors of the SDBs and the FMAs (Fr Fabio Attard, and Sr Maria Carmen Canales, respectively) were present for these days of togetherness and sharing. All the participants, including the two Youth Ministry Councillors, appreciated the wonderful preparation for this Confronto 2009; involvement in all the prayer times, and other moments of reflection, sharing and festivity; the determination to put Christ at the centre of the life of each participant; the love for Don Bosco and Mary Domenica Mazzarello who continue to be people who are the source of and who offer a sure sign of hope to the young.

AT THE ORIGIN OF THE VOCATION OF POPE WOJTYLA (POLAND)


(ANS Krakow) Among the Causes entrusted to the Postulators Office of the Saints of the Salesian Family there is also that of the Servant of God Jan Tyranowski (1901-1947). On 23 May 1941 the Rector-Parish Priest of the Saint Stanislaus Kostka parish, Fr Jan Swerc, was sent to the Auschwitz concentration camp together with seven other Salesians. All were killed between 1941 and 1942. The diocesan enquiry into their martyrdom is in progress: it is hoped it will be completed by 2010.

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN (ITALY)


(ANS Rome) On 9 and 10 September at the Farnesina Palace headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs an International Conference on violence against women was held. It was organised by the Italian Presidential Commission of the G8 and jointly promoted by the Department for Equal Opportunities of the Presidential Commission of the Council of Ministers and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Invited to the event were a variety of personalities from the world of European Politics as well as a number of women from Africa and Asia involved in social work and other activities. The purpose of the International Conference was to put the protection and the promotion of the rights of women in the first place and to discover the causes of violence and combat social discrimination. June-September 2009

In the meantime, the Salesian parish in which the young Karol Wojtyla was living, was trying to reorganise its activities in spite of the shortage of priests. The pastoral care of the young people, boys and girls, was entrusted to the tailor Jan Tyranowski, a young parishioner distinguished by his gifts of good sense, piety and apostolic zeal. He set up the living rosary circles in which Karol also took part, in those dramatic years in which his priestly vocation was maturing. During his last visit to Poland on 17 August 2002, stopping in front of the church in Debniki, John Paul II publicly declared: I always remember those Salesians who were taken away from this parish to the concentration camp... I also remember Mr Jan Tyranowskis Living Rosary.... It was precisely in front of the image of Mary Help of Christians venerated in the church in Debniki, that the young Karol came to the decision to devote himself entirely to the service of the Lord and of his Church.

32

You might also like