JAMSHEDPUR JESUITS

JAMSHEDPUR JESUITS
Vol. 49 No.2 JAMSHEDPUR, INDIA 1 FEBRUARY 2001
OFFICIAL
Appointment by Fr General
Fr Matthias Chae Joon-ho
: Regional Superior of Korea
Fr Thomas Anthonysamy : Provincial of Patna Province from 31 May 2001
STATUS
Fr Timothy Kiro
: Headmaster, St Xavier's School, Basahatu
Fr Alex Mascarenhas
: Tertianship, Sitagarha
Fr John B Nag
: Tertianship, Sitagarha
Fr Francis Perumalil: Tertianship, Sitagarha
OBITUARY

FR JOHN COELHO PRABHU, SJ
Had he lived just seven months more, till August 5, John Prabhu would have celebrated the
fiftieth anniversary of his Jesuit life. Instead, the Lord preferred to have his faithful servant
contemplating Him face to face in eternity.
John was born in 1933, the last of the nine children of the staunchly Catholic Titus Coelho
family of Mangalore. Of the nine children, three, Stanny, Denis and John became Jesuits; three
became nuns and three married and raised families. When he was just 18, after completing the
Intermediate, John followed the call of God and decided to join the Society like his two elder
brothers. However, unlike them, he did not opt for the Calicut (Mangalore) mission, but went
instead to the newly established Delhi Mission of the Missouri Province, USA which had opened
Nirmala College in Delhi a couple of years before. It was, therefore, by accident or shall we say,
God's Providence, that he finally reached Jamshedpur. John entered the Novitiate at Calicut on
the direction of the Delhi Superior; but before he could even complete the Novitiate, the
American Fathers of Delhi, disgusted by the bureaucracy of the government and the Delhi
University, just folded up their institution and returned to the US, leaving behind the library
books, furniture and everything else! Fr General then advised John to apply to the Jamshedpur
mission which gladly accepted him.
Jamshedpur gave John plenty of opportunities: theology in Woodstock, Maryland; a Master's
Degree at Loyola Chicago and the Ph D at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. In all
these studies, John distinguished himself and when he finally returned in 1968, he was posted to
XLRI, Jamshedpur, as a Professor of Orgnisational Behaviour. Since his previous studies had

een in Sociology, John had to study this subject; but he rapidly made himself a master of the
discipline.
John repaid Jamshedpur Province for the self-development opportunities it had given him by
holding a succession of important, but difficult, assignments in the internal government of the
Society. He was Provincial for six years (1978-84), Superior of XLRI Community from 1987 to
1993, Director DSWC in Dhanbad (1984-86). As a Superior, John showed a scrupulous sense of
duty and would never hesitate to do what, before God, he thought to be necessary. As one can
easily understand, this characteristic would sometimes upset some others and, being a sensitive
person himself, such reactions would pain him.
Where John truly excelled was as a teacher. Though he was merely a Scholastic in Loyola
School, he is remembered, forty years later, with respect and affection by his former students for
his classes and the retreats he gave to the non-Christians. However, it was mainly in XLRI that
he was consistently rated among our best professors, not only for the quality of his teaching, but
also for his concern for the welfare of the students. This concern was clearly displayed in his
work as Dean of the Institute. There are former students of 30 years ago who preserve a vivid
memory and a deep sense of gratitude to him and show both by showering him with gifts,
particularly during his last illness.
God saw fit to submit his servant John to almost continuous suffering for the last 14 years of his
life. First he had acute heart problems which required open-heart surgery, followed a few years
later by an angioplasty. Next it was micro-haemorrhages in the brain which produced an
unsteady gait and three years ago the dread symptoms of Parkinson's disease, an incurable and
crippling neurological disorder. Despite, the brave fight John put up, we could all see, the daily
deterioration in his condition. Finally, from December 23, he could no longer get up from his bed
and, after three days, had to be transferred to Mercy Hospital where he peacefully entered eternal
life at 1.30 am on January 3.
John Prabhu clearly accepted his sufferings from the hand of God, kept his good humour, never
complaining or showing irritation and was deeply grateful for the attention shown to him by
members of the Community and his two attendants. To the end, he faithfully concelebrated Mass
and attended Community prayers every day.
John was buried on Thursday, January 4 morning before a substantial congregation, consisting of
Jesuits, diocesan priests, nuns, faculty and staff of XLRI, both Catholic and others. "After life's
fitful fevers, he sleeps well" in the Jesuit cemetery at Mango.
- Theo Mathias
ORDINATIONS
Fr Kosga Yagappa Raj was the first Jesuit Priest to be ordained in Poochikadu, Tamil Nadu, on
28 December 2000, at 5.30 pm by Rt Rev Peter Fernando, DD, Bishop of Tuticorin. His
ordination was preceded by 24 hours of continuous rain. 30 Priests from the neighbouring
parishes participated in the Liturgy. The Jamshedpur Scholastics from Chennai, Satya Nilayam

and Trichy were also present. 200 Catholic families of Poochikadu went out of their way to make
everything possible for Fr Kosga's ordination. On 29 December, at 6.30 am, he offered his first
Eucharist in the presence of all his people and thanked profoundly all the Jesuits of Jamshedpur
Province for their guidance and support during his formative years. The people of his parish will
cherish this great event for years to come.
- Soosai Saleth
The biting cold of the Saturday morning of 27th January did not deter the people from turning
out in big numbers for the auspicious occasion of Deacon Joseph Surin's ordination which
began at 8.00 am in the St Xavier's School premises in Chaibasa. The man of the Day, Deacon
Joe, dressed in white cassock and a beautiful white crown with his father and mother on both
sides, was ceremoniously brought in to the altar with a traditional dance and with fifty plus
priests who came from all over the Diocese. Bishop Felix Toppo in his homily reminded the
faithful that God works through people inspite of their human frailties and urged young men and
women to follow the path of love and service.
The MC, Fr John Mundu, led the faithful through the two and a half hour long liturgy
explaining both in Hindi and Ho the meaning and significance of each moment, instilling
devotion and prayerfulness within them and adding solemnity to the occasion.
A short and sweet "Swagat" lasting nearly an hour by the various groups of Chaibasa parish said
it loud and clear how much they loved and appreciated the first Jesuit priest from Patahatu and
second one from Chaibasa parish, first one being Fr John Sumbrui. All those who came for the
celebration, nearly 1500, were served a delicious meal by the parish Community.
The whole celebration had a touch of tradition and 'localness' about it and Fr Alex Misquith was
not exaggerating when he said, "After many years I got to hear some of the old devotional Ho
hymns sung beautifully by the parish choir".
- Saby Puthenpura
PROVINCIAL'S PROGRAMME
February 06 - 08
: Calcutta - Visitation of our Scholastics
09 : Bangalore - Visitation
10 : Trichy - Visitation
11 : Berchmans Hall - Visitation
12 - 13 : Satya Nilayam - Visitation

14 : Vijayawada - Visitation
17 - 18 : De Nobili School, Digwadih
25 : Consult
26 : Meeting of the Preparatory Committee
27 - 01 March : Rugudisai - Visitation
March 04
: Chaira - Visitation
07 - 16 : Kathmandu - JCSA meeting
El Salvador
ELECTRONIC SNIPPETS
According to the information received at the Curia, on January 14, there are no personal losses
among the Jesuits in El Salvador. But the old church in Santa Tecla is practically demolished.
The Provincial has called a meeting of Jesuits for January 15 in order to see how they can help
the victims of this strong earthquake.
New Orleans
Fr Eugene Herbert was murdered in Sri Lanka ten years ago, most probably on account of his
efforts as a peacemaker in a country divided by war. Now a memorial room has been dedicated
to him at the Jesuit Spirituality Centre in Grand Coteau, Lafayette Diocese. The 96-years-old
mother of Eugene Herbert, two brothers and two sisters were present at the dedication.
Belgium
Bishop Roger Vangheluwe, of the Bruges Diocese, has appointed Msgr Omer Tanghe, as
diocesan postulator for the canonisation cause of the Flemish Jesuit, Fr Constant Lievens (1856-
1893).
Danapur
NEWS FROM HOUSES
The beginning of the new Year was memorable for us Jamshedpur Scholastics. In the absence of
Patna Scholastics, we kept guarding our house. Our Seminar on Hindutva was widely
acknowledged in Patna. We presented the papers for a much larger audience at Navjyoti. Around
225 religious attended it. Our artists, Sunil and Sunny, contributed much to the success of the

Seminar by painting a picture of a tree, thus showing the birth-growth and development of Sangh
Parivar and their ideology. We have been asked to perform the same for many other groups in
Patna. Our booklet is available for Communities on order.
Polidor is the youth coordinator of the parish. Sushil is the kitchen-in-charge. Romanus is our
Province coordinator. Sunil is doing a wonderful job in beautifying the RTC garden. Sunny
continues to write in the "Indian Currents".
- Sunny Jacob
DNS
On 2 January, Joe Anthony went to Tepasai to conduct a Youth Programme. Woolsie
represented the Community at the closing ceremony of Yesu Khrist Jayanti, in Jamshedpur, on 6
January.
10th January, Woolsie was the main celebrant at a Community Mass of Resurrection for John
Prabhu.
Jim Salmon and Steve Callahan were with the Community on 12 January evening.
On 13th and 14th January there were KG admissions. It looks like everyone wants to join De
Nobili School because of discipline and good administration.
We have been having a cold spell in mind-January. The DC ordered the closing of Schools.
On 18 January, Kuru hosted a Villa Night at De Nobili Bhawan.
The arrival of K C Anthony is much awaited. KC was shaken when Kerala had an earthquake.
He is hurrying back from his home visit, lest there be another earthquake!
Five boys have been selected from DNS for the IIT screening test. One of the five is a tribal and
Catholic.
The Alumni Chapter of DNS, Calcutta, is organising a trip to visit DNS. The old boys are
bringing their wives and children.
At the Hindi School hectic preparations are going on for the Sports Day scheduled for 4
February. New admissions have been completed. The new academic year began on 10 January.
On 27th & 28th, the Hindi School Basketball team will be in Dhanbad for the inter-school
tournament
- Emile Coelho
LCE

The classes for this year resumed on 3rd January. The trainees had a Seminar on 'Learning
Styles' and then were assigned to different Schools for practice teaching. Now they are fully
engaged in teaching, guided by the Lecturers.
Meanwhile, we got information from our advocate, Mr Tapan Sen (Ranchi High Court)
regarding the case with Ranchi University. On 5 January, 2001, the Ranchi High Court ordered
the university to conduct all the pending exams (from 1996 to 1999) within sixty days time.
On 11 January, the LCE Governing Board met at XLRI and asked the College authorities to
communicate the High Court order to all students concerned with B Ed exams as early as
possible, though all are requested to wait patiently for the exam date to be announced by Ranchi
University. The Governing Board also gave clearance to the College to go ahead with new
admissions for the next academic year.
Hilary started his normal activities in the College after getting the green signal from the doctor.
Now he is busy levelling the ground, getting it ready for the Sports Day.
Fr John Prabhu was remembered with love and affection by some of his old students in Telco.
A Concelebrated Mass was offered at Lupita hall on 4 January, officiated by Frs Gautam, Vijay
Bhat and Casmir Vas.
Sch Boniface Mundu successfully completed MA first part correspondence course from
Annamalai University. He will pursue the second part after completing the B Ed programme.
Well done!
- C Gautam
Loyola
Loyola grounds wore a festive look on January 6, 2001, with a huge pandal. The occasion was
the concluding celebrations of Yesu Khrist Jayanti 2000. Over 5000 faithful, hundreds of clergy
and Religious joined the celebrations from around the Diocese. Archbishop Telesphore Toppo of
Ranchi was the main celebrant. Our Bishop Felix gave a moving homily. Bishop Rodericks
along with Bishop Stephen Tiru of Khunti concelebrated. Everyone was given a delicious lunch
after a short cultural programme. The highlight of the celebration was Amal's melodious choir
consisting of 135 singers. Amal had practiced for over two months and the choir was fantastic.
Our alumni went with their families for their annual picnic at TCI farm. It was well attended by
over 100 members.
We have a new badminton court, thanks to Saby's persistent efforts. Rector Vatta blessed it.
Minister Maxi broke the coconut to ward off all evil. The inaugural match was played between
the Rector and the Principal.

Amal has taken keen interest in encouraging games in the Junior School. Inter-class basketball,
football, volleyball matches from Stds III to VI were organised and attractive trophies and prizes
were distributed. This has generated tremendous interest in sports amongst the children.
158 Xthers had their solemn Graduation Night on 25 January. Rector Vatta distributed
certificates and achievement awards to each one of them. Rohit Singhal received the coveted Mr
Loyola award.
Br Merlin is back after a lengthy stay at Mercy Hospital.
Fr Kenna found out, accidentally, that he had a painless growth that of a size of a pingpong ball
on his right elbow. It was aspirated at TMH, but it has grown again. A minor surgery is planned
when Richie is ready and willing.
Plans for the additional floor on the Golden Jubilee Block have been approved. This
"Millennium Storey" will accommodate the increased section which we plan to begin from
March. The work is to begin soon. Rector Vatta will oversee the construction.
- Pius Fernandes
Rengra
We had a meaningful finale to the 20th Century by the largest gathering ever of our Faithful for
the Christmas Mass. People, both believers and non-believers, spent the night in singing and
dancing. One could feel the vibration of joy in our campus. On 6 January, 30 Catholics went to
Jamshedpur to participate in the Yesu Khrist Jayanti celebration. Fr Mike guided them on their
pilgrimage.
Fr Anthres completed the School admissions during the December holidays. Now there are
about 700 children in our School. KG Class alone has 100 children, which shows the peoples
awareness of the need for education. In the School we have two new teachers from the locality.
At present the whole School is preparing for the Sports Day on 28 January.
Frs Stan Lourduswami and John Mundu spent two days in Rengra to make us aware of the
current issues like fundamentalism and globalisation. Their thoughts and reflections inspired us
and made us to commit ourselves meaningfully to our work.
A group of four experts from Sundernagar came to Rengra to calculate accurately the ground
water level by their highly sophisticated machines. We thank our Jan Vikas group which is ready
to help us at any time.
- A Alexander
XIM

Congratulations to Abe and his team for outstanding achievement in the placement 2001. 121
students were placed in just two days. About 64 Companies, including many of the topnotch blue
chip companies, participated in the campus recruitment programme. This is the first time XIM
had 100% placement in just two days. The average salary offered is Rs 5.3 lakhs per year.
Shri Naveen Patanaik, Chief Minister of Orissa, visited the campus for the inauguration of the
project: "Wastewater Aquaculture Treatment with Economic Recovery" jointly executed by XIM
and Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture sponsored by India Canada Environment
Facility, in and around Bhubaneswar. In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister said, "my
government will give all support and cooperation for the success of this novel project".
We also inaugurated two floodlit tennis courts of international standard. XIM won the first prize
in the institutional garden competition organised by the plant lovers' association of Bhubaneswar
Oscar Horo organised the annual meeting of the Orissa Region Jesuits on the 16th at XIM.
Almost all those who are working in the Region attended this meeting. The Directors of Work
shared their sorrows and joys, and their plans for the future. At the end, Fr Provincial briefed us
on the status of the Province and his plans for Orissa.
Principal, Tony P, assisted by Eric and party, was busy with the selection process of students
and teachers for Loyola School. More than 800 students applied for admission to Loyola. Many
Jesuits, including Fr Hess and Fr McGrath, helped out in the KG interviews. 179 candidates
applied for teaching posts at Loyola. They were put through a rigorous recruitment process: a
very comprehensive written test, personal interviews followed by a demonstration class
supervised by Tony, Eric, George Hess, Oscar and others. After that, a board consisting of
Tony P, Pius and Sr Flavian, conducted the final interviews. 18 teachers are selected.
According to Sr Flavian, the selected teachers are outstanding - highly competent, creative and
talented. Congratulations to Tony for your hard work for getting excellent teachers for Loyola.
Meanwhile, part of the School building is nearing completion. About 30 classrooms and an
examination hall will be ready for use by March. Classes for KG-V will begin in March. Loyola
School has a phone: 300791.
Work on the Loyola Hospital is almost complete. According to George Hess, the Holy Spirit
Sisters are expected to arrive by June to run the Hospital. He is also trying to get a 3-acre plot in
Bhubaneswar for a Communication Centre.
- George Cheradayil
At Atmadarshan, Patna:
COURSES
May 02 - 12
: Journey to Freedom Retreat by Fr J Parakatt, SJ and Fr A
Puthumana, SJ

Jun 16 - 22
Jun 18 - 26
: Six Day Retreat conducted by Fr J Parakatt, SJ
: Eight Day Retreat conducted by Fr Mani Poovakottil, SJ
At Navjyoti Niketan, Patna:
Apr 23 - 27
May 01 - 07 Jun
May 14 - 19
: Basic B C C Course by Fr Deepak D'Mello, SJ and team
: Basic Hindi Course by Fr Rajendran, SJ and team
: Unorganised Youth Programme by Fr Gregory Gomes, SJ
and team
May 24 - 31
: Lay Leadership Training Programme by Fr Ozzie Saldanha, SJ
At Sadhana Institute, Lonavla:
Apr 10 - 17
May 30 - 06 Jun
Jun 08 - 10
: Vipassana Retreat
: Sadhana Retreat
: Healing in the Family
ACROSS THE RIVER
Fr William J Kaifer (MAR) died on 16.12.2000 at Washington, DC 80/61
Br Nevis Arockiasamy (MDU) died on 28.12.2000 at Palayamkottai 60/31
Fr Rudolf Schoch (PUN) died on 01.01.2001 at Pune 87/68
Fr C Frederick Koehler (MAR) died on 09.01.2001 at Philadelphia 82/63
Fr Francis Machado (CCU) died on 11.01.2001 at Calcutta 58/35
Fr Peter Tete (RAN) died on 23.01.2001 at Ranchi 59/37
Fr Chirackal George (MDU) died on 28.01.2001 at Tiruchi 75/51
Uncle of Fr P Anthonyraj died on 6 January after prolonged illness. He was 68.
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