Vol.27 No.

6 KOHIMA REGION KHNL Nov -Dec 2023

Christmas – A Festival of Joy

Christmas is quintessentially a festival of joy at the realization that God has

become a human being. The angel brought ‗good tidings of great joy‘ to the
shepherds. The wise men rejoiced when they saw the star of the East. It is joy that
pervades the homes and hearths of Christians during the celebration of Christmas.
Thus, joy is inseparably connected to the birth of Christ. Fr Melvil Pereira SJ

However, in many parts of the world we are staring at a pain-filled instead of joy-filled Christmas. The
very place where the Christmas story began has turned into a warzone that has resulted in the death of
thousands of children, women, and innocent people. In Ukraine, there have been tens of thousands of cau-
salities in a war that is completing two years by Feb 2024. Near home, in Manipur, an ethnic conflagration
with religious undertones that started in May this year has resulted in the death of hundreds of people and
thousands that are in relief camps seeking solace, succour and shelter. Someone in Manipur told me that
we are like animals, preying and killing each other.

The world seems far from Christmas joy amid these wars and conflicts. And yet, Christmas celebrates joy,
a joy that presages the presence of God, a God who never gives up on us, who forever loves this world,
whose redemption cannot fail. One experiences this joy by unselfishly emptying oneself, by generously
gifting oneself, and compassionately engaging with others. God shows how of this at Bethlehem. In the
Christian tradition, self-emptying best describes God‘s love for humanity, a love that must bring joy.

As we celebrate Christmas, let us pray for peace in war torn areas. Let us pray for an end to violence
and killing. Let us pray for a ceasefire and dialogue. Let us pray for the spirit of living together instead
of getting rid of one another. Let us pray for a path towards a just peace based on equality.

Let us join Munther Ishaq, the pastor of the historic Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Nativity in Bethle-
hem, who said, ―The message of displaying debris decorations instead of Christmas decorations in the
church is to say that God is with us in this pain, as Christ was born in solidarity with the oppressed.‖ God
is truly with us in whatever situation we may find ourselves in. If God is with us, then there is hope.
Christmas is the birth of a new hope and of God‘s never-ending accompaniment of us. Let us pray God‘s
powerful presence in the hearts and lives of people caught up in these wars and conflicts.
Let us join Fr Arturo Sosa in praying that ‗this Christmas 2023, may the Prince of Peace touch our hearts;
we ask that he also touch the hearts of those who have the possibility and the responsibility to change the
situation, and open themselves to the dialogue that will open the way to lasting peace.‘
MERRY CHRISTMAS
1
 APPOINTMENT BY FR GENERAL

Fr Shajumon Chakkalakkal, Provincial of Darjeeling Province

APPOINTMENT BY THE POSA

Fr Thomas Perumalil (PAT), Socius to the POSA

Fr Ravi Sagar (KHM), Vice Superior, ISI Jesuit Community, Delhi

PROGRAMME OF FR REGIONAL SUPERIOR

JANUARY FEBRUARY
01-02 Visitation, KHM Scholastics in Bengaluru 01-02 Visitation, Gunjung
04-09 Visitation, Umbir and Mawshohroh 06 Region Consult
06 Ordination of Deacon Ebanezar 07 Meeting with RT, RDD and RCLBC
10-11 Visitation, Jalaphet 08-16 Budget and Finance Commission Meeting
12 Region Consult 17-24 JCSA Meeting, Calicut
13 Meeting with RT, RDD and RCLBC 25-26 Visitation of KHM Scholastics, Trichi
14 Mass for MSMHC in Hatigaon (Gen. Ch.) 27-29 Visitation of KHM Scholastics, SN, Chennai
15-24 Visitation, Palizi Jesuit Community
29-31 Visitation, Diyungbra

DATES AND EVENTS TO REMEMBER

07 January : Ordination of Dn Ebanezar in Ummulong

20 January : Silver Jubilee Celebration of the Palizi Mission

POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS

JANUARY: For the Gift of Diversity in the Church

Let us pray that the Holy Spirit helps us recognize the gift of different charisms within the Christian com-
munity, and to discover the richness of different ritual traditions in the heart of the Catholic Church.

FEBRUARY: For the Terminally Ill

Let us pray that the sick who are in the final stages of life, and their families, receive the necessary medi-
cal and human care and accompaniment.

O divine Child,
Where will we find you this season?
In the midst of the massacred children of Bethlehem?
Or, among the hundreds of children of Gaza
Bombed and snuffed out?
O divine Child,
You fled to Egypt from the wrath of Herod.
Where will our children flee?
To no man‘s land, in the Holy Land?
O divine Child,
Open your heart to them then!
And ours, too, to enlarge our tent,
And make them welcome this Christmas!
-Paul Raj

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 NEWS FROM THE REGION

BHALUKPONG
St Xavier Bhalukpong is blessed with four Jesuits-
Fr Jerry Dickson, Fr Dhazii, Fr Mathew Mu-
thuplackal (popularly known as Solar Mathew) and
Fr Joseph Victor, the latest arrival. Fr Jerry besides
looking after the school has completed the build-
ings of girls‘ hostel and presbytery. Construction of
a new school extension building is going on under
his supervision. The girls‘ hostel was opened dur-
ing this academic year with 40 hostellers. The boys‘
hostel is under construction with Fr Joseph Victor
as the supervisor. Fr Mathew is kept at his toes
making bio cookers to meet the demands coming
from different centres of ours and few individual
families.
Another proud moment for our school was that our
school football team defended the inter-schools
football tournament championship title at Bhaluk-
pong by defeating the Government Middle School
team in an enthralling final with a score of 3-3 dur-
ing the play time. We overcame the hurdle in the
penalty shootout, which went in our favour with the
scores of 6-5. Mr Lagu, our student, was awarded
the best player of the tournament.
We too had dance class for all students trained by a
dance specialist for a month and music class is go-
ing on for guitar, piano, ukulele and violin for 40
students. Wishing every reader a Merry Christmas
and a Prosperous New Year 2024.
-Dhazii Thonii

The annual school sports day was held on 6-7 No-

DAWAGRE
vember. Shri Lama Sidisow, Mandal President 6th
Dawagre community is blessed with a new priest
Thrizino-Buragaon as the Chief Guest, graced the
Fr Parciush R Marak SJ. Fr Parciush along with
sports day. The students exhibited their talents and
two Diocesan Deacons and two Selesian Deacons
competed in the spirit of true sportsmanship.
were ordained priests by Most Rev. Andrew R.
The Children‘s Day on 14th November is one of the
Marak, Bishop of Tura on 2nd
most awaited days for our students. Our teachers
December 2023, in Don Bosco
did not disappoint them by shaking themselves to
Playground, Tura. It was a grand
the tune of the music and quartet performance by
celebration where thousands of
our UFS sisters. The performance of the teachers
lay people witnessed the ordina-
was fun for staff and students giving rise to a vigor-
tion. Many diocesan priests
ous belly laugh. It was appropriately followed by
along with religious men and
chicken bara-ghana.
women were part of the celebra-
tions. Jesuits too attended the
St Xavier‘s school Bhalukpong hosted the JESAP
function in large numbers
(Jesuit Schools of Arunachal Pradesh) Games and
though only a few are seen in
Sports Meet on 27-30 November. The Chief Guest
the photo with the young priest. Congratulations Fr
for the inaugural programme was Shri Tachin Sidis-
Parciush.
ow, Range Forest Officer. All the five schools of
ours- St Xavier Buragaon, St Xavier Bana, St Xavi-
The following day, (3rd December), Fr Parciush R
er Palizi, St John Berchmans Thrizino and St Xavi-
Marak SJ celebrated his first Holy Mass in his na-
er Bhalukpong participated in the event which is
conducted once in three years. Overall champion-
ship for Juniors went to the host school St Xavier
Bhalukpong and the championship for the Seniors
was bagged by St John Berchmans School Thriz-
ino. The whole event was well organised by the
host school and everybody appreciated their team
work and collaboration under the leadership of Fr
Jerry Dickson, the JESAP Coordinator and Princi-
pal of St Xavier School, Bhalukpong.

3
tive place, Kharkutta, at Christ King Church, North students and teachers donned their traditional attire,
Garo Hills. It was a joyful event his parents, rela- representing the mosaic of tribal and non-tribal lo-
tives, friends and for all of us. The Jesuit presence cal cultures. This celebration not only showcased
in the first thanksgiving mass too is notable show- our heritage but also fostered a sense of unity
ing our solidarity with Fr Parciush and the Church amidst our diverse backgrounds. On the next day a
in the locality. A short felicitation programme and short informal gathering was organized in apprecia-
delicious meal that followed brought the special day tion and acknowledgement for the works done by
to a close. the boarders and the campus dwellers.
Sch. Akho Luono
The students completed their Second Unit Test on
DIYUNGBRA December 22nd, marking the beginning of the win-
ter vacation from December 23rd to January 5th. The
school held a Christmas celebration on the 22nd.
The Inter-Jesuit Basketball Tournament at Didam-
-Sch. Joel Ajay
bra from 29th to 31st October was a resounding suc-
cess, impeccably organized by Loyola School, Did-
ambra. All the four Jesuit Schools exhibited excep-
tional dedication in their practice, delivering com-
GUWAHATI, JAGRITI
mendable performances on the court. From St Xavi-
er‘s Higher Secondary School, Diyungbra, girls per-
On 12th December Frs Tony Dias and Valerian
formed outstandingly and secured the trophy. While
Castelino attended the meeting of the ―Guwahati
the boys put up a commendable fight in the league,
Solidarity Forum Manipur‖, a coordination commit-
they fell short of the finals due to point differentials.
tee set up by the Archdiocese comprising members
On the 3rd of November, we were saddened to hear
from different religious organisations and denomi-
about the tragic death of Mr Justin Hanse, a young,
nations of Guwahati. This is the third such meeting
dynamic and devoted Catechist of a small Catholic
where the members shared about how each organi-
community of Tarabi, Karbi village, in a tractor ac-
sation is reaching out to the affected people of Ma-
cident. Two of his children are studying in our
nipur. Updates were shared on different forms of
school. His untimely demise due to the overturning
interventions such as: providing ration and medi-
of the tractor on a sloppy path in the forest is a loss
cines to the affected people in camps and villages,
not only to the family but also to the Catholic com-
skill training for the youth, job placements, medical
munity. His dedicated care and support for the
camps, admission to schools and colleges in the
Catholic community will be deeply missed.
Northeast and in other states of India, legal aid,
peace initiatives and so on. The chief of the com-
Fr Owen conducted an orientation programme in
mittee Fr Tom Mangattuthazhe talked about various
Diyungbra on Child Welfare Laws for the teachers
initiatives of the Archdiocese. The remaining partic-
of our school and Good Shepherd School, Gunjung.
ipants shared about their work. Valerian talked
His emphasis on the protection of children and cre-
about the various initiatives of the Kohima Jesuits
ating awareness among teachers to prevent any
which include not only relief, but also rehabilitation
harm to students was incredibly insightful.
efforts in the form of the planned housing project
for the displaced. Both Valerian and Tony were ap-
Children's Day and the School Picnic were an exu-
preciated for their contribution to the Committee.
berant affair, gracing our school football ground
An important feature of this outreach is its ecumeni-
with an array of joyous activities and heartfelt con-
cal approach which has been much appreciated and
nections on the 14th November.The event kicked off
held as an example of how the churches in North
with teachers orchestrating a brief yet meaningful
East India should work. The next meeting of the
programme, setting the tone for the day's festivities.
committee will be held at Jagriti on 17th January,
As each house eagerly took charge of preparing
2024. On 24th November Walter Fernandes and To-
lunch, the atmosphere brimmed with excitement.
ny Dias attended the meeting of the Think Tank.
The school ground transformed into a hub of spirit-
ed games infusing the day with an energy which
NESRC organised on November 2-3 a well-
became instantly contagious.
attended seminar with over 70 participants on
―Ecological Futures: Communities, Conflicts, and
Ethnic Day was amalgamated with Children‘s Day
Celebration, it was a vibrant tapestry of tradition as Contestations in Northeast India.‖ It witnessed a
fruitful reflection on the way forward to deal with
4
the ecological challenges facing the Northeast. Dur-
ing the last few months Walter Fernandes has
been going around training peace activists of the
partner organisations in the skills of peace building,
Of special significance is the meeting of the peace
activists of partner organisations in Nagaland and
Manipur held at Chumukedima to discuss the possi-
bility of their moving forward towards the long pro-
cess of bringing the Naga and Kuki leaders in Mani-
pur together for a dialogue. Its preparation will take
a long time. But as a first step towards it they are
contacting other civil society groups in these two
states to promote collaboration between them for
beginning a dialogue. It is hoped that eventually the
two together will take steps to approach the Meitei
civil society groups for a dialogue.
The NEILAC team went on a 24-day field trip to
Thrizino, Arunachal Pradesh, for language vitality
assessment, mother tongue mobilisation, and docu-
mentation of ecological narratives among the Aka
(Hrusso) people. To their great joy, the team mem-
bers found that the language has made a remarkable
comeback after nearly losing ground to Hindi a few
years ago. This is a rare positive story and shows
that timely and consistent interventions from Jesuits
can help in the resurgence of endangered languages
in the Northeast and elsewhere. On the 12th of No-
vember 2023, during the celebration of the Golden
Jubilee of Nyethrii-Dow festival of the Aka
(Hrusso) community, Fr Vijay D’Souza was felici-
tated by the Aka Shotuko-Kunu, the apex body of
the Akas, for his twenty-five years of service to
their language and culture. He was presented with a
special citation plaque by the MLA, Mr Kumsi
Sidisow. Commending Vijay‘s service to the Aka
language, Mr Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of
Arunachal Pradesh, encouraged him to continue to
serve the language and urged the gathering to
strengthen their mother tongue.
-Walter Fernandes
JAKHAMA
As we approach the culmination of this year, the
last two months have been full of activities and cel-
ebrations. Despite the hectic schedule, the grace of
God has showered numerous blessings upon each
one of us.
We celebrated the birthdays of Fr Pravin and Fr
Arun Babu in the school campus, marked by an
5
exceptional programme presented by the students.
November 14th was a day filled with joy as we cel-
ebrated Children's Day cum Cultural Day at the
school, witnessing students adorned in various tra-
ditional attires. The Science Club orchestrated a fas-
cinating day trip to Dimapur Museum, broadening
the students' horizons. The diligent efforts of Class
12 students transformed the school campus into a
festive spectacle in preparation for Christmas.
The Cultural Club embarked on a journey to Kho-
noma village to experience the grandeur of India's
first green village. Meanwhile, the final exams for
Class 5-9 and the model exams for Class 10 con-
cluded in the second week of December, followed
by a well-deserved holiday, beginning on December
16.
Highlighting the spirit of national integration, the
army organized a tour to Kolkata, Guwahati, and
Shillong for selected students of Class 9 and 10.
The Eco Club orchestrated an exciting Eco tour to
Kolkata for Higher Secondary students, adding an
eco-conscious perspective to their experiences.
In October, a Rosary procession brought parishion-
ers together at the campus, setting a reflective tone.
The silver jubilee celebration of St Teresa Church,
Metelephe, was a momentous occasion graced by
Bishop James Thoppil. Despite being a small Cath-
olic community, the active woman catechist and
members exhibited remarkable hospitality and
strength.
In the campus, a one-day marriage course catered to
young individuals preparing for marriage. The par-
ish youth had a pre-Christmas programme on De-
cember 17, creating a joyful atmosphere in anticipa-
tion of the festive season.
As the semester exams concluded, some scholastics
returned to their province for holidays, while others
engaged in exposure and experience activities in
Assam. Hostel life was vibrant with friendly match-
es and a pre-Christmas celebration that extended
gratitude to coworkers for their selfless services.
Fr Emmanuel devoted a week to pastoral training
in Guwahati, and the pre-novices had a delightful
break in Phesama with friendly matches. Fr Pra-
deep convened a pre-novice staff meeting to discuss
the mentoring of young candidates and prepare
them for future missions.
-Sch. Thanreimung Haorei

JALAPHET
This month has been a wonderful to us. Many visi-
tors from abroad came to visit our school and work
in Jalaphet. To begin with we had Mr Tom Land
visiting us to see the faith of the people, accompa-
nied by Deacon Ebenezar. They visited few villages
interacting with the local people about their life-
styles.
We were blessed to have two second year Novices-
Pingal and Sterling- to stay with us, to experience
our community life and to visit people. They were
involved in most of the works like teachings in the
school, pastoral work and working in the new land.
It‘s a joy for us to have them in our midst.
Fr Gabriel left for a consult on 7th of November to
Guwahati. And, he also visited the scholastics those
residing in Nagaland and Assam. Fr Anbarasan at-
tended the PWPN meeting in Goa on 12th of No-
vember. Our students began their final exams on the
20th of November. The students were all happy as
they prepared themselves to move on to the next
grade. On the 22nd of November Fr Gabriel and one
of the teachers took the class ten students to Kolkata
for excursion. All were thrilled since it was a first
time for them to be out of their own native place.
They all had a wonderful time being exposed to the
new world of life. Later, we had other visitors from
Spain Mrs. Maria and Mrs. Jimena along with Fr
Valerian. Our DSS recollection was held on the 29th
December led by Fr Royal.
After the exams, the hostel boys and girls gathered
together for the short Pre-Christmas celebrations in
the campus, the message is to spread love and kind-
ness to the people. But the main purpose was to tell
them about the birth of the Jesus and why do we
celebrate it. The programme was amazing; we had a
carol singing, prayer service, cultural programme
and a campfire along with few games to keep our-
selves warm and alive. In the evening, we bid adieu
to Sir Lotstar and thanked him for his good contri-
bution to the hostel and the school.
The Seng Rangbah Parish Jalaphet was organizing a
three days prayer service in Mynthing village to en-
courage all the fathers to live a good an exemplary
in the church. On that day, the main celebrant was
Fr Anbarasan along with Fr Royal. It will be re-
sumed after the New Year.
Fr Gabriel attended the ordination of Dn. Parciush,
6
now Fr Parciush and after few days he proceeded
to Ranchi for a meeting and then w ent on to visit
the scholastics in the South.
The Youth of the Parish had their annual meeting
and get together in Khahnar from 9th to 10th Decem-
ber. This is one of the beautiful thing which every
youth long to come together shared their views and
ideas; more importantly to work as one body for the
betterment of the church.
The construction of the new building had begun.
The workers were brought to the place to start it as
soon as possible. The visit of Fr Thomas makes the
work moved faster because he knows how to get the
work done. The leveling of the land is taking shape
now. The Materials were brought to keep the things
ready, so that it would be easier for the workers to
start the work. Fr Royal played a very important
figure in the school and the construction of the new
school. He has been involved in many works with
full dedication. At times, he seems to be faster than
the machines in doing the work. He is always on the
move to see that everything go on smoothly.
-Sch. Daniel Khyriem
KHUZAMA
As the year draws to a close, Khuzama finds itself
in the grip of an intensifying cold, each day colder
than the last when we step outside our homes. Yet,
within this wintry chill, a multitude of stories un-
folds.
Eden Gardens (EG) initiated a collective odyssey,
navigating hills with a bus full of residents to par-
take in the Kohima Diocese Jubilee Celebration.
The revered Fr Mario, accompanied by the other
priest from Manipur, graced EG with an overnight
stay before the jubilee. The EG community is fur-
ther enriched by the presence of the Rector of
Jakhama community, Fr Pravin, who came to meet
the regent of EG. Furthermore, the RCF, Fr Gabri-
el's visit became a moment of grace for the house,
particularly for the regent, evoking poignant memo-
ries as he once held the role of regent in EG, and
both the present wardens were once his eager stu-
dents.
In keeping with Nagaland's vibrant 24th Hornbill
Festival, Eden Gardens, accompanied by children
who stayed behind, immersed themselves in the fes-
tivities on its concluding day. Moreover, spirited
Class IX and X students journeyed to the neigh-
bouring Manipur for the Cherry Blossom Festival,
joining a serene candlelight procession beneath the
ethereal notes of Manipur singers and expressing
their hopes for peace in Manipur.
The Indian Army extended an invitation, shining a
spotlight on our children whose musical prowess
resonated in the halls of Modern College Kohima.
Their performance, echoing a poignant melody
against the backdrop of an anti-drugs campaign,
captivated the hearts of those in attendance. The
students from two neighbouring colleges visited us.
They engaged in lively interactions with the chil-
dren. Before they left the place they donated hood-
ies for the children.
As the biting cold knocks at our doors, the children
wrap up their academic year, revealing a spectrum
of results. While many dance to the tune of success,
a handful—around 4 percent—find a different note.
Yet, in their hearts, the joy of completing an aca-
demic year prevails, turning thoughts toward the
warmth of home.
In the wintry quietude, few children, bound by dis-
tance or familial absence, remain in Eden Gardens.
Six boys and two girls embrace solitude, shoulder-
ing house chores and providing silent company that
echoes across the tranquil campus.
The EG campus undergoes some metamorphosis,
especially at night, adorned with sparkling disco
lights, a majestic Christmas tree, a humble crib, and
artistically elegant white bamboos. It's a spectacle
breathing life into the spirit of Christmas, inviting
villagers for spirited basketball games and provid-
ing a refuge for youth seeking musical rehearsals.
As the year concludes, Warden Kevil bids farewell
after seven years of dedicated service, leaving an
indelible mark on the community. Meanwhile, Fr
Robert immerses himself in meticulous paperwork
and village traversals, unravelling the stories of new
students and their familial landscapes. On the other
hand, Sch. Polseng embarks on a long-awaited
short home visit during this Christmas. Lastly and
more importantly, while Fr Raymond sounds okay
during the phone conversations, let us continue to
pray for his health that he may be able to join the
EG at the earliest.
-Sch. Polseng B Marak
7
MAJURON
The faithful defied the curfew and all the villages
had Masses on All Souls‘ Day and the blessing of
the cemeteries. As a preparation for the Feast of St
Francis Xavier, all the village communities had a
day retreat arranged at four centres with Mass and
the Sacrament of Reconciliation with mixed suc-
cess. The bigger communities responded well, but
for the small communities, it is a long way to go.
Mr Simon Dangmei of Dimdailong village, the
President of the Rongmei Catechist Association,
animated the retreats. On Sunday, the 10th of De-
cember, Local Catechist Day was celebrated in all
our village communities. There was a felicitation
function at all the centres with a gift to the catechist
by the faithful.
We join the Moirang Jesuits for all Common Com-
munity recollections, meetings, reflections and de-
liberations whenever the roads are open. The events
of the season have made us pray more, pay more
and depend on God‘s protection and providence.
The threats and demands from the anti-social ele-
ments have become a constant menace in the Mani-
pur valley. Fr Felix Monteiro is handling the situa-
tion with much patience and courage.
Fr Hector D‘ Souza released a book titled, ‗Mettle
of Winners‘ by Fr (Dr) Stephen Touthang, a Kuki
priest of Imphal Archdiocese at Churachandpur. He
also wrote the ‗Foreword‘ to this book.
It is the first time the new Parish of St Xavier‘s Ma-
juron gathered to celebrate the Feast after its estab-
lishment. The hall was well decorated by the SRA
and MSI sisters with the help of the Parish Youth.
The liturgy was meaningfully conducted in
Rongmei. Thingpui Village led the choir. Fr James
C. Kamei, SDB, the Principal of Don Bosco at
Khoupum Valley was the main celebrant. Neigh-
bouring priests and sisters were present. The faith-
ful were prepared with a retreat and Sacrament of
Reconciliation in their own villages. This was fol-
lowed by a felicitation programme and a sumptuous
meal. The Parish Council took up the responsibility,
of gathering the finances and collecting rice and
vegetables from the village communities. Later the
Parish Youth groups conducted games for the youth
and Children.
Fr Hector animated the Bongaigaon diocesan priests
at Mount Tabor in Jotsoma in Nagaland.
Nearly 60 faithful from the Majuron Parish and all
the Jesuits with the Sisters attended the Episcopal
ordination of Most Rev. Linus Neli as the third
archbishop of Imphal at Senapati.
In a situation of uncertainties, Fr Salew-o George
held on to the traditions of celebrating the Chil-
dren‘s Day on 14th November when all other
schools in the area closed their shutters. He man-
aged to hold the Closing Ceremony of thanksgiving
on the last day of the school as the children passed
in line for a blessing from their teachers.
The visitation of the community by the Regional
Superior was held between 11th and 14th of Decem-
ber. During these troubled times, he empathised
with us and sympathetically listened to us. We felt
his support and encouragement to stay on and carry
on the mission with dedication.
Despite the curfews and blockades the construction
works are going on. Every nook and corner on the
way, the trucks carrying the materials are stopped
and examined, be it cement from Meghalaya, sand
from Dimapur, or iron from Guwahati. Frs Melwyn,
Salew-o and Felix dread the midnight calls. Hope-
fully, a part of the ground floor of the school will be
ready for the next academic year. The basketball
court is shaping up. For all these works, Fr Melwyn
is making the best use of the local expertise along
with the regular masons to speed up the works.
-Hector D‘Souza
MAWSHOHROH
The Long Retreat of the first-year novices and the
Mission/Community Experience of the second-year
novices were the highlights of the last two months
at the novitiate. While the first years are busy put-
ting into practice the many life-changing resolutions
of the Long Retreat, the second years have grown
mature and wise after spending a fruitful enriching
month with the apostolic communities at Didambra,
Dawagre, Jalaphet and Maweit. The second-year
novices are ever grateful to the Jesuits of these ap-
ostolic communities for their support, guidance,
constant encouragement and for going out of their
way to take care of the needs of the novices.
We had the transformer replaced a second time on
October 30th. Due to heavy lightning, we seem to
have endless problems with the transformer and
electric lines, though things are much better now
8
with installation of better lightning arresters with
earthing redone. Luckily, we have a good man, not
a Catholic, taking care of the transformer repairs
and has replaced the transformer a second time
without charging for it, except for the labour. The
situation is much better now but we need to go for a
new transformer with better capacity while planning
for extra facilities at Renewal Centre.
When you enter the novitiate, on the left side oppo-
site to the farm building, you will see a huge struc-
ture with seven water tanks. It is a project by the
fisheries department under the supervision of Fr
Pheiga. Fr Pheiga has a plan to supply fish to the
whole Region. You can start placing your orders.
Two water lines are being laid through our property,
one from Umbir and the other from Mawlyndep,
each giving us a water connection. All that we need
now are two water collection tanks, one for Noviti-
ate and the other for Renewal Centre. Getting the
water connections is the fruit of the efforts of the
previous superiors, mainly of Fr Richard Jarain,
and the follow up by the present administrator Fr
Pheiga.
As usual, we had the blessing of the graves on No-
vember 2nd by Fr Arul with a meaningful prayer
service. Novices had taken the trouble to clean the
cemetery carefully for the occasion. We remem-
bered all the dead of the Society and specially of the
Region. May the Lord grant them all eternal rest.
Community attended the Parish Day celebrations at
Umbir on Dec 10th. ―Tribal Fusion Dance by the
novices‖ was the item of the day, setting the stage
on fire and keeping the audience on their feet.
House and Community are getting ready for the cel-
ebration of Christmas. Even the grotto is well deco-
rated- fruit of the long retreat seen in increased de-
votion to the Mother of Jesus. Festive mood every-
where, despite the regular classes.
Fr Pheiga had to leave in a hurry to Moirang, Ma-
nipur on November 7th to help the Moirang Jesuits
to handle some local issues. He used the occasion
wisely also to attend to his annual retreat under the
guidance of Fr Boniface Lewis.
Frs Gratian and Gerry represented the Communi-
ty at the ordination of Fr Parciush at Tura on Dec
2nd and were also present for his First Mass on Dec
3rd. Fr Gerry used the occasion of the Novices be-
ing out for a month in November, to attend to his
medical check up at Guwahati and returned after a
week, fully refreshed but without the medical
checkup, as his doctor himself was down, recover-
ing from surgery. Both, he and his doctor, are fine.
-Gregory Coelho
PHESAMA
St Paul‘s campus Phesama had a lot to contribute to
the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the Kohima
Diocese. The TTC trainees, under the guidance of
Fr Barister Khongrymmai and the staff, had the
honour of performing a musical play on the journey
of the Catholic Church in Nagaland for the cultural
evening on 28 October. Besides, St Paul Retreat
Centre was the chief place of accommodation for
the visiting bishops and other dignitaries during the
Jubilee.
The celebrations in the campus itself included the
birthdays of Frs Charles D’Souza and Thomas
Varghese. One of the highlights of the former‘s
birthday celebration was a play on the question of
suffering and evil, performed by the prenovices un-
der the guidance of Sch Simon Dhar. Meanwhile,
as usual, there were lots of visitors in the campus;
this included Ms Dashisha Khongrymmai the
younger sister of Fr Barister Khongrymmai.
As of now the school academic year is over; the
TTC trainees, JTC brothers and FCC aspirants had
their pre-Christmas celebration and most of them
have gone home for winter vacation; and the re-
maining few keep up the campus life going.
-Pradeep WK
UMBIR
St Xavier‘s Parish has been blessed with a tapestry
of events and gatherings that enrich our faith and
strengthen our bonds. Here‘s a glimpse into the re-
cent happenings within our Parish:
We warmly welcomed Tom Land from the USA,
who stayed with us in Umbir to immerse himself in
understanding the richness of the Catholic faith in
the Khasi Hills. It was his Spiritual Journey in the
Khasi Hills. His journey included witnessing the
unique blessings of graveyards, partaking in Eucha-
ristic processions, and experiencing the profound
tradition of burning letters to Mother Mary. Tom‘s
9
presence added a global perspective to our local
traditions, fostering cultural exchange and unity in
our shared Catholic faith.
The Parish Priest, Fr Caldinus Majaw with his
unwavering dedication, extended blessings of the
graveyards across different CMCs within our Par-
ish. This sacred ritual not only honours our depart-
ed loved ones but also serves as a reminder of the
eternal hope we find in our faith. His spiritual guid-
ance continues to be a source of strength for our
community.
The altar servers of the parish were honoured on the
feast of St John Berchmans. Their selfless service
and dedication play a crucial role in enhancing the
beauty of our worship. We expressed our gratitude
for their commitment to the liturgical life of our
Parish. We graced the occasions with the instruc-
tion to be the altar servers then followed by the Ho-
ly Eucharist celebrated by Fr Caldinus. We con-
cluded the day with the Adoration.
This December, we joyfully celebrated a significant
milestone in the history of our Parish. On the 10th of
December, St Francis Xavier Parish marked a dec-
ade of existence as a full-fledged Parish. This re-
markable journey has been filled with moments of
spiritual growth, community bonding, and unwa-
vering faith. We are grateful for the continuous sup-
port and active participation of our parishioners,
without which, this milestone would not have been
possible. Dr Celestine Lyngdoh, our Local MLA
was present for the function. At the programme we
honoured our 2 priests, 8 nuns, 2 brothers who are
the fruits of the Parish.
Caldinus took part in the Women‘s Association
event organised by the Shillong Archdiocese on the
2nd and 3rd of December. His insightful talk en-
riched the gathering, emphasising the role of wom-
en in nurturing faith and building strong communi-
ties.
At the same time, deacon Ebanezar Bareh, partici-
pated in the Ordination and First Thanksgiving
Mass of Parciush Marak SJ in Tura and Kharkutta.
Later, Dn Ebanezar also witnessed the Priestly Or-
dination of Dn Nobert Kasomhung SJ at Hungdung,
Manipur. These events marked significant mile-
stones in the journey of faith for our brothers in
Christ.
Umbir organised a catechism camp for children on
16 & 17 December in the spirit of Christ‘s profound
words, ―Let the little children come to me‖ (Mt
19:14). The camp, held with this theme as a beacon
of love, joy, and spiritual growth for over 800 chil-
dren from all CMCs of our parish. Through engag-
ing activities like Bible Skit, Bible Fancy Dress and
Gospel Dance, interactive sessions, and meaningful
worship, the camp aimed at creating an environ-
ment where the children could draw closer to the
heart of Jesus. The success of the Catechism Camp
serves as a testament to our collective commitment
to nurturing the spiritual growth of the younger
generation, ensuring that they grow up rooted in
faith and equipped with the values that will guide
them throughout their lives. Mrs. Madalyne Sawk-
mie Mawlong was the Chief Guest and brought
with her a wealth of experience in education as she
shared with the participants. She was inspiration to
the campers, encouraging our young learners to em-
brace the teachings of Christ and deepen their un-
derstanding of the Catholic faith. The closing cere-
mony of the Catechism Camp was a momentous
occasion with the presence of Bah Nicky Khar-
thangmaw, the president Seng Rangbah from Shil-
long Archdiocese Zone – VII. His address empha-
sised the importance of faith education and the role
it plays in shaping the spiritual foundation of our
Children. Fr Caldinus, celebrated a special Mass to
mark the conclusion of the Catechism Camp.
As a preparation for Christmas, Fr Caldi is on the
move to villages for hearing confessions. Our Par-
ish community is at the same time actively engag-
ing in festive preparations for the birth of our Lord
in all CMCs. The faithful decorated churches, or-
ganised special services, and reached out to those in
need, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas.
May the light of Christ shine brightly in our hearts
as we anticipate the birth of our Saviour.
-Caldinus Majaw
UMOID
The district administration organised a programme
to create awareness on voting (SVEEP Programme)
on November 24 with a host of activities that in-
cluded traditional games, Tug of war, health aware-
ness of mental stress, free medical camp for all staff
and students and drill on Electronic Voting Ma-
chine (EVM). Sumptuous refreshment for all was
an added attraction. The campus witnessed lots of
life of students who participated in different activi-
ties. The media gave a wide coverage in three dif-
ferent newspapers and e-papers. Click
10
here for more information
https://highlandpost.com/sveep-program-held-for-
college-students-in-swkh/?
fbclid=IwAR0Q7wOg50GofjPrz8YWvRkIrYwSnz
_BSVDKpOG4b7P0jLOIvh2ICdVw7bM
The college organized two Career conferences on
November 1 by the Maharashtra Institute of Tech-
nology, Shillong on financial sector and another on
December 11 on Law by Ms. Rushika, LL. M from
NLSIU, Bengaluru & Ms. Trishna Devi, NLSIU,
Bengaluru of National Law School, Shillong. Both
workshops offered students hands-on experiences
and practical knowledge on career options, how and
where to apply and mock test to appear for admis-
sion test.
College week 2023 on December 13-15 was a three
-in-one celebration of St Xavier's‘ Umoid, of sports
competitions, cultural fest and pre-Christmas cele-
bration. We are creating memories, occasions to
cheer and appreciate the talents and promoting a
sense of belonging to the College.
The Pre-Christmas celebration with camp fire and
meal for all staff and students was a meaningful oc-
casion to exchange gifts, sing and dance with one
another.
The degree students completed their odd semester
examinations and Higher Secondary students are
preparing for their promotion and Board examina-
tions.
The construction of the first academic block of the
college is in progress. We want to begin the aca-
demic year 2024 in June in the new block. Howev-
er we are racing against time. Whisper a prayer for
it‘s completion by May 2024.
Fr Vilezo George represented the Umoid Centre in
attending the ordinations of our Deacons in
Parciush in Tura and Norbert in Hungpung.
-Sunny Agustine
WILLIAMNAGAR
Norbert Kasomhung
SJ was ordained a
priest by the Most Rev
Linus Neli, Archbish-
op of Imphal on 16th
December, 2023 at
 Sacred
Heart
Church,
Hungpung,
Ukhrul Dis-
trict, Mani-
pur in a
beautiful
ceremony
attended by
the family,
friends and
parishioners. The beautifully erected stage in the
church lawn had ample space for the over 50 priests
who concelebrated. This was the first Priestly ordi-
nation conducted by the newly ordained Archbishop
Linus Neli who gave a well-prepared and delivered
homily. He spoke about the qualities that a priest
aspires to be and stressed the importance of the
family and people of God supporting the priest
through prayer and mature care and guidance.
The parents and siblings of Nobert along with the
other members of the family made excellent prepa-
rations to host the dozens of outstation guests who
arrived the previous evening and the others who
arrived on the day. The 30 or so Jesuits and candi-
dates gustily sang ―Dauntless Ignatius‖ which was
enthusiastically appreciated by the congregation.
There were several cultural elements from the
Tangkhul culture that were part of the ceremony.
The Bishop and the ordinandi released pigeons and
offerings of rooster, bamboo sapling and more.
Fr Melvil, the Regional Superior of the Kohima Jes-
uits rose up to the occasion as always in the thanks-
giving speech and offering of shawls to the Bishop
11
and significant members of the clergy, community
and family. Fr Melvil highlighted the closeness of
the Bishop to the Jesuits having participated in the-
ological seminars and working together.
One of the local Parish Priests was very impressed
by the joy, simplicity and unity of the Jesuits and
their sensitivity in acknowledging the family and
local community that nurtured the young priest. The
Parish Priest remarked that surely any parent pre-
sent and watching would be happy to send their
sons to be part of such a warm and closely knit Re-
ligious family.
The Catholic Church in Manipur has grown strong
and mature despite many hardships and oppositions
and has offered many of its sons and daughters to
be missionaries who have gone far and wide like the
4 Jesuit priests from the Tangkhul Community.
In Loyola College, Williamnagar, the Odd Semester
exam for the 2nd and 3rd years has concluded while
the 1st Semester students who are following the
NEP 2020 will have their exams in February 2024.
There is a big rush among the staff of the college to
get qualified to become eligible to be considered for
government approved posts which are being offered
to some of our teachers as we have accepted to be a
―People‘s College‖. As teachers register for PhDs
and take a break, or disappointed they could not get
selected or unsure they can clear the NET several
teaching posts are falling vacant and we are looking
for new faculty.
-Philip Abraham
 NEWS FROM THE DIASPORA
AHMEDABAD, Premal Jyoti
In Premal Jyoti, November was a hectic time espe-
cially it was the coming of the third and fifth semes-
ter exams. However, we were soon relieved by the
Diwali vacations. We also journeyed to Mt Abu vis-
iting various famous sites and sceneries in the se-
cond week of November. The companionships and
accommodations given to us were to our content
leaving us a memorable experience. On the 12th to
24th we travelled to different missions of Gujarat
Province to have experience of community life and
witness the life and faith of the people in the mis-
sions. After our return, a sharing session was con-
ducted aiming to evaluate and enrich our experienc-
es.
On the 27th, we attended the Gujarat Province
Samelan which was held in Rosary School, Vadoda-
ra. The theme 'Synodal Church in the context of the
Socio- Political challenges of today', was relatable
and enlightening to us, scholastics.
In this December, intense Christmas preparations as
well as involvement in Xartfest programme, to be
held in our St Xavier's College, have increased our
spirit and expectancy of the Christmas Season.
Likewise, we are immensely delighted to welcome
our Fr RCF's visitation on the 24th and we also en-
sure our RCF that he will have a pleasant stay here.
-Sch. Francis Thongnirit
BANGALORE, Arrupe Nivas
―Christmas is not a season but it is a feeling‖ says
E. Ferber. The presentation of Status de Iesu Socie-
tatis at Mount St Joseph by the Socius, Fr Jossie
D'Mello, greeted Arrupe Nivas with the spirit of
Christmas.
The wonderful visitation from the Northeast—Frs.
Julian, Nilesh, and Paul Raj—made our hearts leapt
with joy as well. The Recollection, recreation and
the involvement of James and Felix in the commu-
nity and NECCB brought forth good news and great
delight to the community. The Kohimites shared
their experiences with the novices at Mount St Jo-
seph regarding Manipur issues and their vocation
story like the presentation of Jesus at the temple.
12
Sch. Richard has returned to our community to kick
off his second internship phase. Frs. Arvind and
Avinash, the recently ordained priests, made sacri-
fices on our behalf. The Child Jesus is being found
in our neighbourhood via NECCB carols, Christmas
card and cake distribution, decorations, and helping
the less fortunate in Siddapura. We had the presence
of RCF, Fr. Gabriel. It was a moment of love and
care.
-Sch Reginald Kurkalang
BANGALORE, NECCB Ministry
The Archbishop of Bangalore has appointed Fr Paul
Lelen, Fr James SJ and Sr Flevis CMC, to be the
Local guardians of all the children who have come
down because of the unrest Violence in Manipur.
We have started visiting students in Mangalore.
Meeting with them in their own institutions has
more impact in our relationship with them. We have
given them some inspirations and future plan wher-
ever we go. We could see how happy they are
when they see us from their own place.
There are some challenges in working together with
them. Students thought that they could do anything
in other places like in their own home. Some did
well in everything given to them but there are some
who are not able to see their future plans. Some of
them have no aim in life and because of the vio-
lence they witnessed in Manipur. But overall, they
are getting back to the systems of Education.
We had ―Thanksgiving Day‖ for the Internal Dis-
placed Person on the 5th of November 2023. We, the
organisers made known that students should and
must know the fathers and sisters who are the one
looking after them for their schools and boarding.
Following are some of the important personalities
which Fr James Chin, expressed on behalf of the
Internal Displaced Person. Most Rev Peter Macha-
do, Archbishop of Bangalore, Fr Dionysius Vaz,
Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit, (in absentia), Fr Jo-
se D’Mello, the socius to the Provincial, Fr Swe-
bert D’Silva, Rector of the Arrupe Nivas, (in ab-
sentia), Fr Victor Lobo SJ, Vice chancellor of St
Joseph‘s University, Fr CC Jose CMI, vice chan-
cellor of Christ Deemed College, Fr Santosh,
BMSSS director, (in absentia), Fr Edward Thomas
SDB, the director of Dream India Network, and all
the dignitaries Sr Provincials, Parish Priests, fathers,
sisters, honoured guests and all present here.
In his speech, Fr James expressed his gratitude for
the selfless service rendered by the Archbishop of
Bangalore, Provincials, Priests and sisters, who
opened the door of their hearts for the Internal dis-
placed Persons from Manipur due to the unrest
which began on May 3rd 2023.
We were deeply touched by the words of our Arch-
bishop Most Rev. Perter Machado, on the first day
of our Manipur student‘s Meeting who said that the
Internal Displaced Persons were not refugees but
they were our ―Honoured guests. They are our sis-
ters and brothers in Christ.‖ The fatherly care and
support that we have received from you His Grace
cannot be forgotten by us.
Fr James also thanked the Northeast Catholic Com-
munity Bangalore (NECCB) family for their con-
stant support and help in making the programme a
success.
As we are in the Advent Season waiting for the
coming of the Baby Jesus in our hearts, the NECCB
family went out spreading the Good News to others
by Singing Carols in different places. In the process
of going for Carols we make people happy in re-
turn. The Theme of this Christmas 2023 is
―SMILE‖ which is our way of spreading the Joy,
Peace, Love and Hope of the Christmas.
-James Chin
BOMBAY, Vinayalaya
After successfully completing our first semester ex-
ams, on first week of Nov, we, the Juniors, em-
barked on a rejuvenating tour to Khandala, an expe-
rience that etched lasting memories in our hearts
and fostered a profound sense of unity among us.
Khandala, with its scenic beauty, became a micro-
cosm of joy and cheerfulness during our stay.
A significant highlight of our journey was our par-
ticipation in the MAGIS Programme organised by
the Bombay Jesuits from November 12 to 14. Con-
vening at St. Peter‘s, Bandra, approximately 300
youth gathered to share and renewed their spiritual
journeys. MAGIS, a harmonious blend of fun and
spirituality, included elements such as prayers, Eu-
charist, Anubhav, MAGIS Circle, and Examen, in-
spiring us, to seek a greater purpose and providing a
profoundly enriching experience.
13
Continuing our exploration of diverse interests,
from Nov 16 to 20, Sir Conan led a workshop on
the art of performing drama. This unique amalgam-
ation of fun and learning introduced us to the world
of acting, unveiling latent talents that we are excited
to showcase through upcoming street plays.
From Nov 30 to Dec 1, Mr Neil D‘Souza conducted
an insightful course. Covering basics in graphic de-
signing, video editing, websites, blogs, online edu-
cation, and social media, the course equipped us
with valuable skills for the digital age.
The learning journey persisted with a workshop in
films and media conducted by the XIC Team from
St Xavier‘s College, Mumbai, from Dec 12 to 15.
This comprehensive exposure added layers to our
understanding of the dynamic field of media.
On Dec 16, we attended the Jesuit ordination at St
Peter‘s Church, Bandra, witnessing the ordination
of four Jesuits. This moving experience inspired us
to aspire towards becoming extraordinary future
priests.
At the same time, as we prepare exteriorly and inte-
riorly for the birth of our Lord Jesus and the advent
of the New Year 2024, we extend warm wishes to
all for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous, Happy
New Year.
-Sch. Gladson Awungshi
DELHI, Vidyajyoti
Amidst our routine theological studies, the past two
months have been painted with vibrant strokes of
diverse experiences. Towards the end of October,
guided by Fr Anil D’Almeida, the first-year stu-
dents dedicated a week to immersing themselves in
Hindu culture and rituals in Varanasi. Their return
was marked by profound spiritual experiences.
At Vidyajyoti, the visit of the Regional Superior, Fr
Melvil Pereira, at the beginning of November sig-
nificantly enriched our spiritual journey. Shortly
after his visit, the community hosted a dinner for
the students from Good Shepherd School Gunjung,
accompanied by Fr Joji, during their excursion in
Delhi.
As Christmas drew near, we kicked off our pre-
celebrations right from the week prior to Advent.
On the last Sunday in ordinary time of the liturgical
calendar, we had a lively celebration with the
Zeliangrong Catholic Delhi (ZCD). The festive
spirit continued on the first Sunday of Advent with
the North East Catholic Community Delhi
(NECCOD) and on the second Sunday with the
Poumai Naga Catholic Me Delhi (PNCMD). As this
point of writing, we eagerly await the joyous
Christmas celebration with the Tangkhul Catholic
community Delhi (TCCD) on the 25th. Despite the
winter chill settling in, these gatherings managed to
warm our hearts and lift our spirits.
The Balmela, organised for children from various
ministry places, was a resounding success, provid-
ing the children with enjoyable and memorable ex-
periences. The following week, our ‗Community
Day‘ brought members together, united by the
theme "Together Towards Tomorrow." The heart-
warming and joyful anticipation for Christmas
prompted us to spread our hope and joy by singing
carols to children and the elderly in different minis-
try locations.
As we carry the glowing memories of these experi-
ences forward, our eyes lift towards the sky with
appreciation and eager excitement. We welcome the
approaching Christmas with anticipation, embrac-
ing the promise it holds—filled with hope, joy,
peace, and love.
-Sch. Jokim Nongkhlaw
DIMAPUR, GSS (Kohima Diocese)
Have you not heard his silent steps?
These have been very disturbing weeks for me. I am
not thinking at the moment about what has been
happening in Manipur since May 3 this year. I am
not upset with the obsessive electioneering that has
been going on ever since 2014, all in the name of
democracy, with the simple aim of everything
‗mukt‘! I am not feeling helpless over the question
that often arises in my mind, Should we be then
starting another freedom struggle in our mother-
land? I entrust all these to God, for God alone can
save us and give us peace! I am, however, disturbed
in my heart, Should I be celebrating Christmas
this year? I have been deeply affected by the Israel
-Palestinian conflict.
Every year Christmas reminds me of the angels
singing of peace, Christmas cards painted with ex-
otic designs of Peace on Earth (not many these
years, in fact!), and of course cribs and Santa Claus-
es even in simple households. Peace is the over-
14
riding theme in WhatsApp messages this season
between friends and families. It‘s surely quite un-
derstandable as there are so may conflict zones in
the world, and even nearer home in our families,
too. We believe in the peace God alone can give.
I am more than ever deeply troubled and disturbed
and affected by the news of children being kid-
napped and taken hostages from Israel, and if I were
to believe the numbers, more than 4000 Palestinian
children getting killed. I am reminded of the massa-
cre of innocent children in Bethlehem and therea-
bouts when the Divine Child was born. The Prince
of Peace had to flee from all that blood shed?! It
looks as though that land had to be made holy first
and foremost by the blood of those children even
before it was soiled by the ‗Blood of the Lamb.‘
The news is that Christmas celebration has been
cancelled in Bethlehem this year by the Christian/
Catholic hierarchies in deference to the number of
children of Gaza who have been killed. This is truly
a powerful sign that there is humanity within us and
around us. Another sign of hope is that, even be-
tween enemies, there is surely a spark of humanitar-
ian consciousness that has prevailed so as to allow
truckloads of food, water, medicines and relief ma-
terials into Gaza! My hope and earnest prayer is
that this ‗pause‘ may stretch itself to months and
years!
I look at the crib our Brothers are making outdoors
in Good Shepherd Seminary and I remember the
destroyed homes in Gaza. I am continuing to be
deeply affected by the devastation. How will I cele-
brate Christmas this year then? Should I urge all
Christian communities to consider this question,
listening to the cry of the children of Gaza? On my
part, I would be in quiet peace, listening: Have you
not heard his silent steps? How can I, if not in
respectful silence? Listen to the cry of children,
echoing the cry of the earth. It‘s a call to be a re-
minder of a peaceful heaven on this violent and
noisy earth, echoing the divine child‘s gift of such a
peace. May this holy night be a silent night!
-Paul Raj
PARIS, Blomet Communty (EOF)
Well! What is more constant in life than change it-
self! I suppose the cycle of nature definitely points
towards how we started the year with the spring and
now here we are embracing the cold autumn breeze
and winter finally at our door once again. Those is a
series of beautiful changes happening all so fast.
Here in France, as it is a custom to have an academ-
ic break during the week of all saints starting from
the 28th of October, we had the occasion to experi-
ence the cold autumn winds elsewhere apart from
Paris. It was absolutely a beautiful moment for us
all. That short break then brought us back to our
desk where befriending our books was necessary
once again. Ever since, we have lots to do, as the
first year philosophers are beginning to get constant
work on the need to update our notes with our re-
spective tutors. That for us has been an intense ex-
perience of coping up with the nature of philosophi-
cal contents and the complexity of the language em-
ployed at the same time. On the other side, the new-
ly arrived are also coping up with their language
classes and are done with their first semester test.
We are hopeful that all these inputs will help us get
along with our studies and mission here. We also
have the system of spending few week-ends in fra-
ternity (small groups of sharing) during which each
fraternity can arrange things they like to spend time
with. Given this occasion, practically all of us in
Blomet got some time to be out on some week-ends
with our respective fraternities. It is always a beau-
tiful experience to live such moments of sharing,
prayer and familiarity with our Jesuit companions.
In our Kohima circle, we also had our pre- Christ-
mas gathering in Roynal‘s community on the 9th of
this month. All of us were present that day, except
Joanies, who was down with cold.
As Christmas is in the air we are already beginning
to see that all around us. We decorated our commu-
nity here in Blomet with some Christmas lightings
and decorations in the house. Besides, there is ado-
ration in the community on Fridays as part of the
spiritual preparation. It was on the 13th of December
that we welcomed Fr Paul Coelho in Blomet which
was a passing visit after his trip to parts of Europe.
It was wonderful seeing him making meaningful
rounds around. More are welcome in the future. We
believe that a happy season like Advent will bring
more joy and contentment in our lives.
We would like to congratulate our newly ordained
priests, Frs, Parcius Marak and Norbert
Kasomhung and very soon Ebanezar as well. We
wish them all the very best in their priestly ministry.
Wishing you all a joyous celebration of the birth of
Jesus and an experience of newness in the New
Year as it unfolds.
Sch. Benjamin Keyichisilung
15
PARIS, Communauté de… (EOF)
After enjoying a week-long vacation at the end of
October, we have all returned to our desks, com-
mencing our work on dissertations and mémoires.
Following a brief respite, classes and seminars at
Centre Sèvres have resumed.
During one of our community meetings, Jesuits
from India, Indonesia, and Egypt presented a par-
cours on inter-religious dialogue in our respective
countries. The focus was primarily on the dialogue
between Christians and Muslims, highlighting the
different approaches of each country's government
towards religious freedom. It was fascinating to
learn about the diverse operating methods in vari-
ous countries, as well as the shared understanding
and sentiments between different religions. Sch.
Aseer from Andhra Province delivered a compre-
hensive presentation regarding the situation in An-
dhra Pradesh in relation to this matter during the
programme.
As part of the "Weekend de la communauté," the
second weekend of December was dedicated to re-
flection and collective sharing on Father General's
recent document, "De Statu Societatis du 31 juillet
2023." After individual reflections within the com-
munity, the Superior proposed two-by-two sharing
sessions lasting ten minutes each. The sharing in-
volved profound reflections on the document. Fol-
lowing our sharing, we proceeded to Martyrium de
Montmartre. During the Mass, all the scholastics
renewed their vows.
The second day of the weekend was dedicated to
"Tornade Blanche," a general cleaning of the house.
After a thorough work, we enjoyed a festive apéro
and meal before the community departed for the
concert, "Deutsches Magnificat," Vêpres de Haydn
et Messe de Mozart at Radio France. The "Weekend
de la communauté" concluded with a Pizza Party.
As we joyously anticipate the blessed celebration of
the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are conscien-
tiously cultivating an inner spirit of preparation,
harmonizing it with the radiant adornment of our
abode, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the
imminent arrival of the divine presence.
Sch. Roynal Machado
 PUNE, De Nobili College TRICHY, Clive House (MDU)

We were happy to welcome our Tertians, Frs.
Khathing, Rajesh, and Robert on 2nd December at
DNC. They came for a leadership programme for a
month.
The Catholics of North-Eastern Region, Pune
(CoNER) celebrated their Silver Jubilee on 3rd De-
cember with the theme- ―Great is Thy Faithful-
ness‖. Fr Khathing was the main celebrant of the
Eucharist with 13 concelebrants. Fr Robert
preached the homily. Around 120 faithful were pre-
sent for the jubilee celebration. We fondly remem-
bered scholastics and brothers (who are now
priests) who started the CoNER ministry in 1998
and who kept the fire burning for the last twenty-
five years. We started our semester exams on 14th.
Our exams‘ stress was reduced greatly with the arri-
val of Fr Gabriel Kharluni, our RCF who came
for his annual visitation on 20th. Thank you Fr Ga-
briel for visiting us and for your love and care.
We had North Zone cultural evening on 21st. The
Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Robert. Before the
Mass, a short video on our missions in the Region
was displayed. During the homily, Fr Jimmy shared
his profound experiences in Kohima Region during
his visit to the Region as a scholastic in 2013 and
recently for his experiment during tertianship. The
Kohima Jesuits enthralled the gathering with the
hymns in Northeast regional languages. The Kohi-
ma Jesuits, DNC wish every reader a joy-filled
Christmas and a blessed New Year.
-Sch. Stephen Naulak
The Scholastics in Clive house set out for triduum
at Thozhamai illam, Kanyakumari on 12 Nov. The
triduum was preached by Fr Jesunesam SJ. The
Clive brothers went to see the sunrise but the Sun
was too shy to appear. We visited some churches
along the fishery coasts. We were inspired by the
warmth and the enthusiasm of the faithful there.
They were friendly, hospitable and generous. On
our way back, we met our elder brother, Fr Athikho
at St Xavier‘s Pallayamkottai.
December, the month of Christmas, along with it
came many activities. We had a basketball match
with the Capuchin theologians and had a wonderful
time interacting with them.
We went for carols at Katur, Putur, (homes for the
Aged), RC Middle School and School for Special
children. Spreading the Joy of Christmas with the
elderly ones and the special children was something
all of us fondly saved in our memories. Often inno-
cent children didn‘t miss calling us ‗Uncle Jackie‘
followed by tons of queries about our origin. We
sang ‗Silent Night‘ at CRI Advent Christmas cele-
bration in some of the Indian languages, among
them was the language of the Khasis.
We will be celebrating Christmas at the mission sta-
tions in Chennai Province. Christmas greetings to
you all.
-Schs. Augustine Veihrii & Jacob Daili

GONE BEFORE US

Fr George Hilarion Thakur SJ (PAT 68/48) on 16-12-2023 in Muzaffarpur

Fr Peter Marandi SJ (DUM 77/53) on 05 -12- 2023 in Raiganj.
Br Xavier S. Arockiasamy SJ (MDU 92/68) on 03-12-2023 in Tiruchirappalli.
Fr Joseph Karunaidass SJ (AND 77/60) on 29-11-2023 in Bangalore.
Fr Joseph Chitooparambil SJ (KER 95 /64) on 26-11-2023 in Kozhikode.
Br Lalith Fernandopulle SJ ( SRI 53/25) on 16-11-2023 in Kandy
Fr Joseph Velinkar SJ (BOM 93/77) on 14-11-2023 in Bombay

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