March - Jamshedpur Jesuits

JAMSHEDPUR JESUITS
Vol. 57 No. 2 JAMSHEDPUR, INDIA MARCH 2009
MESSAGE FROM THE PROVINCIAL
My visitation of our Jesuit communities in Kandhamal district of Orissa last month was
an occasion for me to take stock of the situation there. The general atmosphere of the
district is deceptively calm, mysteriously quiet. I feel proud to be a companion of our
province men who are so daringly involved in serving the people in those remote forest
villages of Kandhamal amidst impending dangers. Our men in Phulbani, Rutungia,
Tumudibandha and Pajikeri, who stayed on with their people during the riots, have given
us all a vivid example of solidarity with the suffering.
The six Jesuit candidates in Phulbani, who had spent five sleepless nights hiding in the
bushes to avoid any attack during the riots, are now back to their intense preparation for
exams; the four hundred plus hostel children in Rutungia, who had to disband during the
escalation of violence, now beam with confidence and hope, as they go about their
routine study and play; the little students of Pajikeri danced and sang to welcome us
expressing their gratitude for their safety and care. With the gradual withdrawal of the
security forces from the area, and the planned thinning out of the relief camps and relief
materials, the riot victims are forced to garner confidence to live in their villages, as their
trauma and pain, fear and uncertainty still remain fresh.
Our three young Jesuits, Savari, Praful and Arock, are back from a five day
trauma counseling workshop in Mumbai, and are now ready to assist the people in coping
with the situation. The Jesuit intervention for rehabilitation and rebuilding peace and
harmony is getting more organized with these three under the field level guidance of
Gyan, Tony S., and Joe Xavier.
We are blessed with many committed Sisters, Priests, village leaders and
members of people‟s organizations, who are collaborating with our efforts to establish
peace and harmony in some pockets of Kandhamal district. Their faith in God, their
compassion for the poor and the suffering, and their relentless commitment to a cause are
a source of their tremendous energy to risk and not to count the cost. They continue to
inspire us and challenge us to work for peace and harmony in Kandhamal Hills, and in
our own neighbourhood.
Michael T. Raj, S.J.
Appointment by Fr General:
OFFICIAL

Fr Adolfo Nicolas, SJ, has appointed Fr Edward Mudavassery SJ (HAZ) as the
Provincial of South Asia. He will assume office on 31 May 2009.
Fr Edward is currently the Rector of Vidya Jyoti College of Theology, Delhi. Fr Edward
was born on 20 November 1944 and entered the Society of Jesus on 20 June 1963. He
was ordained a priest on 18 May 1976 and made the final commitment in the Society of
Jesus on 21 June 1986. After a year in Santhal Mission in Hazaribagh, two years as prenovitiate
Director and one year as the Socius to the Novice Master, he served as Novice
Master for eight years before being appointed as Provincial of Hazaribagh. He had a
second stint as Novice Master for four years after the completion of his term as
Provincial. After serving a year as Director of Propedeutic Seminary, Punjab, Fr Edward
was appointed Rector of Vidya Jyoti, Delhi in 2005.
Fr Edward had done his secular studies in St Joseph‟s College, Tiruchi, Loyola College,
Chennai, Psychology in Gregorian University and Counselling in Ireland.
We warmly greet him on his appointment as Provincial of South Asia and assure him of
our fervent prayers when he assumes this special ministry of leadership in guiding the
course of the Society in South Asia.
Status:
Fr. John Nag Minister, Loyola Bhavan, Bhubaneswar, Cell: 09178062569
Fr Gerald Kerketta Acting Headmaster, St Ignatius, Rengra
Br Merlin Pereira XLRI, Jamshedpur – Prays for the Church and the Society
Fr Francis Perumalil XLRI, Jamshedpur – Rest and Recuperation
Fr Romanus Kerketta Deputy Director, Divya Bharati
Fr. Ajit Bahala Headmaster, Loyola School, Pajikeri
Fr.. Isidore Minj Hostel & Teacher, St. Xavier's, Rutungia
Fr. Benedict Minj Headmaster, St. Thomas School, Gande Dungri.
Fr. Antony Bara Headmaster, Loyola School, Chaira.
Fr. Julien Ekka Headmaster, St. John's, Tepasai.
Fr. Sushil Ekka Hostel & Teacher, Basahatu.
Fr. C.G. Thomas Vice Principal, DNS, Bhuli, Dhanbad.
Fr. Sylverius Lugun Hostel in charge, Teacher, Chandankiyari.
Fr. Pacal Burh Director, Boys Hostel, Lupungutu
Fr Sylvester Ekka Boys Hostel, Teacher, Jilling
Scholastics' Status
College Studies
Livance Ekka Berchmans Hall, Chennai.
Johnson Lakra Berchmans Hall, Chennai.
Ranjeet Binay Kerketta Asha Kiran, Mangalore
Manohar Tigga Asha Kiran, Mangalore
Basil Sanga
Premal Jyothi, Ahemedabad
Philosophy
Ritesh Leslie Cutinho
Amos Bage
Satya Nilayam, Chennai.
Satya Nilayam, Chennai.

Gabriel Purty
Stephen Raj
Vincent Amala Doss
Regency
Sanay Antony Soreng
Henry Albert G
Pawan Toppo
Deepak Sanjay Ekka
Manohar Kindo
Xavier Francis Tete
Gabriel Marandi
Anil Ajay Kerketta
Ranjit Roshan Minj
Mukti Clerence
Abraham I
Theology
Alwyn Rodrigues
Tony John
Biranchi Soreng
Niranjan Minj
Ranjeet Bilung
Ignatius Dungdung
Bipin Kumar Kujur
Vincen V Fernandes
Satya Nilayam, Chennai.
De Nobili College, Pune.
De Nobili College, Pune.
Inigo Niwas, Lupunugutu
Loyola School, Chaira
St. Joseph’s School, Kendrapara
Loyola School, Pajikeri
St. Xavier’s School, Rutungia
St. Thomas’ School, Gande Dungri
Loyola Academy, Jilling
St. Xavier’s High School, Lupungutu
St. John’s School, Tepasai
Human Life Centre.
Loyola School, BBSR
RTC, Ranchi
RTC, Ranchi
RTC, Ranchi
RTC, Patna
RTC, Patna
Vidya Jyoti, New Delhi
Theology
Theoloy
Special Studies
Vincent BhengraB.Ed Studies
PROVINCIAL’S PROGRAMME
March 01 - 07 - JCSA meeting in Pune
08 - 09 - Visitation: De Nobili College, Pune
10 - Visitation: Ahmedabad
12 - Back in the Curia
14 - Visitation - Jilling
15 - General Body Meet of Formators, JSR.
18 - Shankhabhanga
19 - Kendrapara
20 - GBM of Loyola Hospital, BBSR.
21 - GBM & Convocation, XIMB
22 - 23 - Young Priests Programme, XIMB
25 - GBM of XITE
28 - GBM & Convocation, XLRI
29 - CRI Officials Meet, Curia.
31 - Consult

General Body Meeting of Schoolmen – Feb. 14 th -15 th XLRI
In response to the GC 35 clarion call “fire that kindle other fires”, 44 delegates
representing 4 Province zones – Chaibasa, Bhubaneswar, Dhanbad and Jamshepur – met
at XL for collective reflection. The PCE, Pius, unfolded the dynamics of the convention,
while Fr. Provincial invited the delegates to examine that which makes a significant
difference - as an individual and as an institutional - in the “educational service” that we
render to the nation. In his input, XLRI „s renowned professor of OB, Prof. I. S. F. Raj,
gradually led the group to take an inward trip to see where we failed to set up for our
institution a distinct entity that would finally set the world on fire with our call and
commitment as educators. To drive home this point, he used a biological analogy of
“homeostasis”. Like any organism, we are called to maintain a balance to meet the
demands of the world without losing sight of our original charisms such as MAGIS,
INTEGRITY and DISCERMNEMENT as singular means to achieve the AD MAJOREM
DEI GLORIAM (AMDG).
In the Eucharistic celebration, Mike redefined the 3 R‟s of Education for our time –
Rapport, Religion and Reason. In the panel discussion that followed Augustine
Ezhakunnel called us to build bridges between our institutions and public with refined
PR tact; George Fernandes shared his anguish and agony of the present challenges in the
coal field due to the fee-hike; Saleth Soosai spoke of his own personal journey into the
educational apostolate as a “learner” and how his contact with the families of students
enabled him to be a fine administrator. Pius Fernandes briefed the gathering on the
outcome of the Mumbai National Schoolmen Meet. Sunil Lakra ably chaired the
session.
For the purpose of group discussion, the delegates were divided into five groups of eight
members each. They discussed the implication of “fire” that GC 35 talks about, the way
to sustain the “fire”, the God-experience during the time of anguish and anxious moment
in running these institutions and finally the quality of “transforming” leadership. The
final word came from the Provincial when he said that we need to ask ourselves whether
we are setting our institutions on fire or setting fire to our institutions; are we holding on
to our “chair” or passing the “chair” to our younger brothers by developing a second-line
leadership in our organizations; are we sharing the pain of our community members or
basking in our own glory; and finally, are we credible today or have lost our credibility.
Pius, the PCE proposed a vote of thanks. The delegates had much to carry home for
reflection as they left the campus.
- Tony P
Amda
NEWS ROUND – UP FROM OUR HOUSES

Panneer along with Mr. Balram went to Salem to visit a Project, St. Mary‟s Leprosy Centre, run
by the Sisters in order to have a first hand experience of managing more districts with limited
manpower and budget. They visited Salem and Dharmapuri districts and enriched themselves
with the way they carry out their works. They were very much impressed and edified by the way
they ran their project. Panneer has come back with a lot of enthusiasm and confidence and is
eager to plunge into the work. On his way back Panneer’s nephew joined him to see the work
done by his uncle. He was with us for a few days. Meanwhile Mr. Murari and Mr. Kamdev went
to Patna to attend a meeting with the officials of DFIT and informed them about the latest
development in our effort to help the government in eradicating leprosy.
Hilarius Kongari paid an official visit to our community in his capacity as Superior. Indeed we
were happy to have him in our midst.
Thomas was down with pharyngitis and had to go and consult an ENT, Dr. K.P. Dubey, who
seems to have relieved him from the pain for time being. He has been advised to abstain from
certain food items. During the time of his medication he stayed in XLRI and enjoyed the
hospitality and generosity of the members of the community. As of now we are busy in making
contact with the DLO‟s of the new districts that are entrusted to our care.
Jerry Cutinha visited us and extended his helping hand in preparing a new project for the
vocational training of the children of the leprosy patients. The Provincial along with Mr. Firoz
made a flying visit to our place.
- Thomas C G
Basahatu
The month of February highlights the Mage Parob for the Ho tribals of West Singhbhum,
Jharkhand. Similarly, the academic calendar of St. Xavier's Middle School Basahatu had
the most important day of the year 2008-2009, that is none other than the Annual Sports
Day. The Annual Sports Day was held on 20 th February 2009. Kishore and Sushil
worked day and night for its success. In fact, it went off very well. Mr. Madhusudan Bari
(Jamshedpur DSP) an alumnus of St. Xavier's Lupungutu, was the Chief Guest of the
day. He was extremely happy to see a beautiful March Past performed by the children.
This was the first time our own students played the band with instruments recently
bought for the school. Hilarius Kongari was the guest of honour.
On the other hand, Sushil was very busy in blessing marriages and administering
Baptism. Kishore went around attending such meetings like CRS and the General Body
Meeting of those in education in Jamshedpur.
Bordor
- Kishore Lugun
Greg, the Headmaster, is busy drilling the tiny tots in English rhymes and action songs. There is
lot of “noise” around as the little ones practice speaking in English and the amused parents keep
wondering whether they have put their kids in an English medium school. After assembly, Greg

keeps him occupied distributing application forms for KG admission. The thatched roof and lack
of facilities have not kept the people away – more applications have been sold than last year!
The Parish welcomed Somy with dance and songs. He offered his first Mass in the parish on 1st
February, along with Greg, the PP.
St. Paul Miki parish had its Feast Day celebrations on the 8th of February. After the solemn Mass
by the PP, the parishioners prepared a „bara khana‟ and shared the joy of the feast. Somy moves
out to the villages to offer Mass, to meet people and to get better acquainted with the culture and
language. Bene has takes his pastoral duties more seriously these days. In the first week of
February, he was away in Jhinkpani parish preaching a retreat in the villages for about 10 days. In
the last week of February also he went to preach two3-day retreats.
- Somy Mathew
DNS, Digwadih
The much awaited KG results were out on 14 th Feb. While the selected students are being
admitted to the school, the parents of the not-so-lucky ones are still visiting the campus
with the faint hope of getting an appointment to see the Principal, George Fernandes.
The recent fee hike-created much publicity about our DNS schools. In the context of the
implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission, the tuition and annual fees were raised to
meet the proposed salary structure of the staff of our schools. But a group of parents
reacted violently against this fee-hike. They held ugly demonstrations and locked up the
school-gates of a few schools, whereby preventing the entry of the students and the staff
into the school premises. Some political parties and students‟ unions also joined with
these parents against the fee-hike in order to reap some political-religious advantage of
the situation. The officials of the civil administration were not at all prompt in
maintaining law and order when trouble started in our schools. They seem to be very
passive in their attitude towards the private schools. Hence, on February 3 rd , the teachers
of the private schools held a peaceful demonstration before the District Education
Department in protest against the “loose statements” made by the DEO and then
proceeded to D.C‟s office to submit a memorandum. Bro. Amalraj accompanied the
Digwadih teachers in this demonstration. George Fernandes and George Thana
attended all the emergency meetings of the principals of the private schools to take stock
of the situation and to formulate appropriate action plan.
De Nobili School, Bhuli, is all set ready to start the session towards the end of March. All
the classrooms in the ground floor are ready and the interior decor of the office is going
on.
The Jharkhand Board Exam began on 21 st Feb. Our students are appearing for their
exams in one of the centres in Jharia. In the past, there used to be a big rush for KG
admissions to the Hindi School. But in recent years there‟s been a noticeable drop. If it
continues, what would be the fate of the Hindi school?
The ISC practical exams have already started. George Thana, as Inspector of ISC/ICSC
exams, visits the different exam centres of the coal belt while Kosga, is the supervising
Examiner of the ISC exams in the main school.

From the new academic year, the fee collection and the disbursement of salaries will be
done through Axis Bank. Alex Misquith is busy making the necessary arrangements for
this shift.
- Kosga Y Raj
Inigo Niwas, Lupungutu
The third semester is in full swing. The first years are back to Inigo Niwas after two
weeks of discernment break at home. Some decided to remain at home. The four third
years are writing their Intermediate Final Exam.
This month Jerry is quite stable geographically. At least he has hardly logged any travel
time to Jamshedpur. However, he has become active locally. As the Secretary of both
Middle and High schools, he has made himself available for various programmes of the
schools. Both Ranjeet and Ranjit went to Simdega for Gulshan's ordination. They also
visited the houses of the candidates of that area. The family visits helped us greatly to
understand the candidates' vocation in a better way.
Jerry's birthday celebration was a time for coming together. The candidates had a good
opportunity to mingle with the Jesuits of the area. The cycle ride to mission stations
began with the first ride to Basahatu with Jerry and Ranjeet leading the candidates on
cycles. The candidates seem to love it. They get a feeling of what it means to be on
mission and they look forward to many more such cycle rides to distant places.
Jesu Bhavan-Upasana, Mango
- Ranjit Minj
Upasana hosted a three-day residential Charismatic Leadership Programme in the
beginning of February, which was well organized by Fr. George Manna, the Vicar
General of Jamshedpur Diocese, for thirty-five lay participants who came from different
parishes. The programme was well prepared by the leaders and conducted very
prayerfully. The group gave us a good example of deep faith in the Spirit and brought
blessings to this place. The presence of Bishop Felix and Fr. Camil Hembram was an
added source of encouragement to the participants.
Alex Mascarenhas conducted a five-day Financial Administration Course from the 9 th of
February, which was attended by twenty-three participants – religious men and women
and diocesan priests from Delhi, Andhra, Darjeeling, Kolkata and Jharkhand. An added
element in the course was Labour Laws, which was handled by Augustine Ezhakunnel.
The participants were fully absorbed in the course and the outcome was highly
appreciated by all. Congratulations to both Alex and Augustine!
This course was followed by a retreat for five SCJM Sisters, which was given by KM.
The Sisters really enjoyed the atmosphere and the hospitality offered by Xavier. The

Ordinandi Retreat for the Hazaribagh Deacons was the retreat of the month, which was
directed by Fr. George Beck from the Spirituality Center, Purnia. The group got quickly
into the mood and made a very fruitful retreat.
Gilbert Menezes left on the 6 th to minister to the diocesan priests at Santisadan,
Allahabad. Joe Njara led the seminarians of Pratiksha through a 30 days retreat at
Sitagarha. And Carl Dincher spent a day with the HM formators at Sundargarh. John
Nag said farewell to Jesu Bhavan on the 15 th of February and left for BBSR the next day
early morning to take up his new assignment at Loyola Bhavan. Kapil Xaxa, seized this
opportunity for visiting our houses at BBSR, accompanied him. KM and Njara left for
Bangalore for the five-day Ignatian Spirituality Seminar on the 20 th and will be back on
the 28 th of Feb.
On the 1 st of February the Novices had a cycle ride to Bhilai Pahari to visit the hospital
and the Candidate House. Again on the 12 th they spent a day at Chandil Dam picnicking
with the Master and the Socius. The following day Bernard Surin spent some time with
them sharing his experiences in Nigeria. Now they are busy finding resources to write
their term papers with utmost seriousness.
- C Gautam
St. Joseph’s Kendrapara
Our academic session: 2008-09 reached its climax with the tension of the Annual Exams.
While the students were found lost into the world of books for longer periods, teachers
could be seen in the quiet corners devoting their extra time and energy to checking
answer scripts.
Prior to the examination, the staff of DD Oriya TV channel landed in the serene premises
of our school for an interview cum film shooting. It is a matter of pride for our school
that one of our students had been selected as a child actress for an Oriya film. Many of
our teachers gave interviews regarding the academic performance of the student
concerned. After a week, we caught a few glimpses of our school on the TV network.
No sooner the exam fever subsided than the school administration organized a
Graduation Ceremony for our outgoing Tenthers for the first time in the history of our
school. The ceremony was very solemn. The address of our Principal James was not only
enlightening but also touching and moving for the entire audience and the graduates. The
power point presentation prepared by Biranchi and Mr. Akshay Panda, our computer
teacher, brought a tear to many an eye and a smile too as it brought back memories of
yester years spent in this school. Literally, many students left the school campus full of
tears, so hard was the pain of separation!
On 22 of February, the parishioners of Arunanagar Parish went for a picnic to an island,
sailing for more than two hours. For many of us, it was a thrilling experience to travel by
water for such a long time and personally catch a glimpse of dolphins leaping gracefully

into the air from the sea. A memorable picnic in fact! Thanks to Greg for his superb
organization.
On 23 of February, our St. Joseph‟s community took a trip to Sankhabhanga, along with a
heavy load of books. We were welcomed with broad smiles and cheerful faces.. Loyola
School seems to provide a ray of hope for Mayurbhanj, one of the most backward tribal
districts of Orissa.
Of late, the admission rush is in full swing. A good number of students are expected this
year to enroll this year as our school has already carved a niche in the entire district of
Kendrapara.
Loyola School, Bhubaneswar
- Biranchi Soreng
Pascal went to Mercy for a minor surgery, as he was experiencing serious pain. Doctors assured him
that he would be back home the next day. Well the minor incision became a major wound and
developed complications after the surgery for hernia.. It is two months now and Pascal is still in the
last stage of recovery. He is expected to resume his work within a week. We missed you Pascal.
Sunny is holding the fort during his absence.
Our new “Children’s Park” with a lot of new rides for our tiny tots was inaugurated last week. This
was possible because of the generous help by a parent. Our kids have lots of fun and frolic and a
“raison detre” for them not to miss a class day.
Victor, our treasurer, is working on the fee hike and the new salary scale for our collaborators. There
is trouble in the town already as parents of three well known local schools are up in arms against the
management’s decision to hike the fees. It’s a bad time for all
The Final Term exam is over and the teachers are busy with corrections, promotion meetings and
preparing report cards.. We are ready to begin the next academic year from the “Ides of March”.
Pius is planning out each detail for the new session.
Daya is contemplating to increase the Oriya School fees marginally, encouraged by the response.
The school is doing very well under his leadership. The parents have promised their full cooperation.
More admissions are expected in the next session. Sunny has rushed home to be with his
ailing mother.
- Pius Fernandes
Loyola School, Jamshedpur
“Normal is boring” is the common saying and thus Loyola English department came up
with new ideas for conducting various activities cum competitions away from the class
room lessons, calling for maximum participation of students. The programs comprised of
Penmanship, Rhyme Time, Dramatization of Poetry, Debate, Choral Recitation, Tête-à-
Tête, Turncoat, Calligraphy and Ad Show. These events were well distributed among all
classes of the high school students and participation of the students was overwhelming

and enthusiastic They came up with a lot of ideas that revealed their creativity and spirit
for innovation.
The Junior section organized a quiz competition for all the classes. That too was a well
appreciated program, equipping the students with skills for participating in quizzes. There
was a Solo Song Competition organized by Debdoot Organization. One of our students
bagged the first prize among 65 competitors.
It was unfortunate that Rajdeep Chatterjee, a Loyolean, the most deserving contestant for
Indian Idol 2009 could not make to the last three due to lack of sufficient votes. In the
field of sports our students are proving their mettle as two of our students achieved first
and second position in Timken Golf Tournament, entitled the Jubilee Tournament
,organized at the Tube Makers Club.
Loyola bid farewell to four of our staff : Mr Natarajan, who rendered his services in the
school for the past 36 years as a Maths teacher and had reached retirement age.. Rani
Wilku and Jenny Kempster handed in their resignation after umpteen years of service to
the school to join their family residing elsewhere. Mrs Rekha Mohan, the Office-in-
Charge, also had to part company from Loyola to join her husband in Delhi.
Loyola Project School is also shining in the city as they emerged Over All Champion in
a Sports Meet in JRD Complex conducted by Educare where 10 Hindi Schools
participated in the event. LPS also bagged individual championship trophies in Junior,
Senior and Super Senior categories. “Jai Ho” to Sushil Suman and his team!
On 1 February LPS enjoyed a picnic to Dimna Lake Resort and, according to Sushil, it
was a grand picnic because all the staff members enjoyed themselves to the maximum as
was also the experience of the staff of the main school on 8 February. While Maxi made
sure that every thing was just right and sufficient with regard to the menu, Victor
Misquith made sure that all members of the staff were present to strengthen the bonds of
the Loyola family spirit.
Rutungia
- Sunil Lakra
The month of February was unusual and colourful with lots of come and go. The most
auspicious day was the Visitation of the Provincial, Mike T. Raj. He was accompanied
by Delegate of Orissa Gyan, Tony Uvari, and Victor Joseph. This visit brought a lot of
cheer and smiles to the campus. The Provincial spent quality time with every member of
the community. The school children welcomed Fr. Provincial with great solemnity. He
was impressed by their disciplined parade and melodius singing. He also spent some time
with the teaching and non teaching staff listening to their trials and thrills. Soon after that
he visited the FCC Sisters to understand their anxieties and happiness. The visitation
came to an end with the holy „Qurban‟ followed by a delicious dinner.

Arokia went to Mumbai to attend a short Trauma Counseling course. He is now better
equipped to practice his newly learnt skills.
On the 13 th February, Amal and Ajit travelled to Jamshedpur to attend the educationists‟
meet. In their absence Vincent and Sr. Linda looked after day to day business of the
school.
Anthres is in full swing with parish activity. He is always on the move visiting mandalis
and units. On 17 th February he went to Pokari with Sr. Mary Matthew and Sr. Noble for
rectification of marriage. Sr. Blessy gave a talk to the parishioners on health and hygiene.
People appreciated her input very much.
Under the leadership of Anthres, a few of the parishioners went to Dantling for a
pilgrimage. People were touched by the faith which they witnessed at the shrine.
- Vincent Bhengra
Sahavikas, Phulbani
The second year candidates‟ Board Exams will begin from 3 rd March 2009 and they are
already in the exam mood. The month of February brought to Sahavikas the first
visitation of Mike as Provincial. It was a day of grace for the two Jesuits here and
bountiful ice-cream for the candidates. Gyan is more often out than in. He is busy with
meetings at different levels and relief work and is seen all over the district of Kandhamal.
In the second week of February Savari along with Arock and Praful attended a four day
workshop on Trauma Counseling in Mumbai. Presently Savari is visiting various parts of
Kandhamal collecting Testimony Narrations from the riot victims. For the first time after
the Kandhamal riot the regents decided to have their monthly recollection in Kandhamal.
They had a day of recollection in Sahavikas facilitated by Gyan. They all went back
energized. With more and more medical and other interventions in Kandhamal,
Sahavikas has almost become a transit house for the religious working in Kandhamal.
The most frequent visitors are S.Tony and Joe Xavier (MDU) who meet the District
Collector every weekend. We are happy to have a number of Fathers and Sisters passing
through our house. Just a note of caution for people visiting Sahavaikas. Barking dogs
seldom bite but our dogs don‟t bark only bite.
- M Savarimuthu
TRTC
The month saw the arrival of both the newly ordained priests namely, Amrit and
Romanus to the house. While Roma was the first to arrive at the end of January, Amrit
was back on 10 th February. After a brief stay Amrit moved on to Maluka on 21 st
February. The community announced an Agape to thank God for the gift of Amrit to this
community. For the Eucharistic celebration Amrit was the main celebrant with Somy
and Roma concelebrating. The entire Lupungutu and Bordor members were also present.
Our Vice Superior, Michael, accompanied Amrit till Maluka along with Martin and
Tony. We wish Amrit a very fruitful ministry.

Michael and Clement are very busy with their projects. Michael had an exposure
program in his Ghodaduba Project area and Clement successfully organised a workshop
on aquaculture.
After the sad running over of Tom‟s pet dog, „Rony‟, Tom took some days off to Patna
for a five-day charismatic retreat. After the retreat, the charismatic Tom is back.. He is all
set to start the charismatic movement in Chaibasa too. Tom successfully arranged a free
eye camp and Cataract Operations for the villagers of the project areas with the help of
the local Eye Surgeon Dr. Sanjeev Tiriya. Well done, Tom!!
Martin has occupied the Treasurer‟s office and is breaking his head with all the
accounting and budget preparatory sessions. He‟s also keeping an eye on the Yuva Jumur
activities.
Pancras is on his toes with the TRTC training center running full house; with the
bookings marked till the end of March.
Roma and Tony are busy with the institution building programs. Roma is also squeezing
in pastoral work along with his social work. Tony is at present working on a small
documentary movie production related to health.
This month we had some distinguished visits from the Provincial, Stan Lourduswami,
and Shree Bagun Sumbrui.
- John Tony
Tumudibandha
On 19 th February, the Provincial along with Gyan, Delegate for Orissa, Victor Joseph,
Tony Uvari and Joe Xavier expressed their love toward us by visiting us and bringing
bags full of sweets. In the recent history of Tumudibandha Jesuit community, it was the
first time when ten Jesuits gathered, offered Mass, dined, and enjoyed each others
company. While the Provincial was busy meeting each individual of the community,
others were taking in the natural beauty of the place. Needless to say the Provincial‟s visit
to our community was a kind of boon for each member of the community. His visit has
surely made a positive impact on each individual. His exhortation has really stirred us to
face the new challenges and oppornities with proper discernment and optimism.
Finally, after a very long period of time since the Kandhamal riots flared up, Praful and
Paul have decided to stay in the Tumudibandha house. Praful is actively busy with relief
and rehabilitation work and Paul takes care of the house as the minister.
If anyone wants to meet Cornie, he does not have to look for him at the residence but in
the mandali. He says that a Parish Priest‟s work is cut out for 24 hours and thus he strains
every nerve to give most of his time to the laity. These days he was seen busy organizing
the Lourdes festival on 22 nd February for the first time in his tenure.

In his unique way Isidore is handling the school as well as the sustainable energy
projects very well. In his busy schedule he takes time out for the project and to attend to
sick calls too. Our school recently organized a picnic that helped to narrow the gap
between teachers and students. Without any inhibition and hesitation they danced
together and enjoyed the day to the maximum with a sumptuous meal to crown the day
out .
- Mukti Clarence
Tundi
On the 8 th of February, the school celebrated its Silver Jubilee. What started as a small
seed has grown into a big tree! The school began through the initiative of Walter
Kongari with Mr Munilal Hembrom as the first Headmaster. With the initiative, drive
and dedication of Hilarius Kongari, Pascal Burh, Jerry Kerketta, Clement Kujur,
Mike Tirkey, Mathew T, Sushil Jojo and the SND Sisters, beginning with Sr Nita,
followed by Srs Nishkalanka, Pavana, Pratibha and Philo, St. Xavier‟s stands tall today..
The Silver Jubilee celebration began at 9.00 a.m. with a Thanksgiving Mass with Bishop
Felix as the main celebrant and Mike, the Provincial. 19 children received their
Sacrament of Confirmation and 15 children made their First Holy Communion. The Mass
was followed by a felicitation-cum-cultural programme with Bishop Felix as the Chief
Guest and the Provincial, Mike, as the Guest of Honour. They were honoured along with
Mr Munilal Hembrom with silver tinseled glittering shawls while the past Headmasters
and School Committee Members were given gifts as a token of appreciation for their
dedicated service in building up the School to its present stature. The cultural programme
had a 7-act play depicting the humble beginning of the School to its present day
existence. Raphael Lakra wrote the script and directed the play. The multipurpose hall
was packed for the occasion which ended with a festive lunch for all guests sumptuously
prepared by Jayaprakash with Anthony Bodra giving him able assistance. Many
alumni got to meet their teachers and recalled nostalgically “the good old days”. A
special note of thanks goes to the present SND Sisters, Srs Prasanna, Philo, Suchita and
Sabina for burning the midnight oil for the past two months to get things ready and also
in making the Silver Jubilee celebration a memorable one. Thanks to the efforts of Mike
Tirkey and Mr Amit, the whole event was captured visually.
XLRI
- George Anthony
The XLRI Board meeting was held in Kolkata on January 30, 2009 and was attended by
almost all the members of the Board. The Chairman, Mr. Muturaman formally welcomed
Mike T Raj to the Board. The Board considered;1) the proposal form AIMST
University, Malaysia to initiate collaboration between XLRI and AMIST;.2) finalizing
the vision and mission of XLRI and initiating the process of translating them into

concrete objectives. Following up these leads, Abe traveled to Malaysia, on his way to
Manila to attend the Board meeting of the Asian Institute of Management, Manila.
The campus recruitment peogramme of 2009 faced the challenges that many had
anticipated due to the current economic downturn. Nevertheless, using our contacts with
the alumni and the CEOs of the top level companies, we hope to achieve 100%
placement.
Dr Madhukar Shukala of XLRI organized the first ever international conference on
social entrepreneurship from January 31-February 1st, 2009 at XLRI. It was well
attended and appreciated by all. The main theme of the conference was “providing access
for sustainable development”. Michael Tirkey and Romanus Tete from TRTC attended
this conference.
The Institute has begun the process for obtaining ISO certification for the Marketing Fair,
the Students‟ Mess, XLRI Library, MDP Residence services and the campus environment
and ecology. XLRI is the first B-School to initiate the process for getting the ISO
certification.
After many years of negotiation and follow up, XLRI has now got the land document and
deeds for the land adjoining the North-Eastern part of the campus. Now the campus
stretches up to the Suwarnarekha River. It will have facilities for an entrepreneurship
centre, classrooms, hostels, faculty offices and an international center. The
entrepreneurship programme is partly funded by the government of Jharkhand.
The Annual Convocation of XLRI will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2009. During the
convocation the diamond jubilee celebrations of XLRI will be formally inaugurated. The
Jubilee year celebrations will be concluded with the convocation in March 2010. All are
cordially invited
The community responded most generously to the request of Fr. Provincial to provide
health care facilities to some of our senior members of the province. The community
decided to allocate the six rooms on the ground floor of the Tome Jesuit Residence for
the province health care unit. Fr. Provincial has agreed to assign one priest to be in charge
of this unit. We already had Deeney, McGrath, Francis Perumalil and CG Thomas
recuperating here.
Raj went to Lonavala for a one day programme for the L&T executives, to Mumbai to
conduct the end term examination for the XIMR students and then to Chennai for the
XLRI admissions interviews. James could not go to Dubai as he dislocated his knee and
had to lie low for a few days. He will be going to Mumbai for admission interviews.
Paul went to Dubai for his course on Business Ethics and returned with a severe cold. He
will now be going to Chennai for admission interviews.
Abe, George and Raj went to Bhubaneswar.While Abe settled some legal issues George
met the institute‟s auditors to finalize the dates for auditing. Raj accompanied them to see

for himself the vast changes that have taken place at XIMB campus. On their way back,
they called on Stan Kujur at the seminary, Balasore and had lunch with Jerry Kujur
and Francis Tiru at Loyola School, Sankhabhanga.
The Province Commission on Education met at XLRI. About 44 Jesuits involved in the
educational apostolate attended this meeting organized by Pius.
Vinod Fernandes brought 50 boarders and three teachers from Rengra for a tour of
Jamshedpur. They were given a sumptuous lunch at XLRI. Raj served them soft drinks
and food and after lunch, Sirinus gave them a guided tour of the campus.
- CL George
XTTI, Patna
The month of February found us very busy preparing for the Golden Jubilee of XTTI and
the coming of Fr. Adolfo Nicolas, the Superior General of the Society of Jesus. We
started this month with a pilgrimage to "Mokama Mata." It was a memorable and
touching experience for all of us
Keeping in mind the goal of our Juniorate studies, we conducted a seminar paper on the
biography of freedom fighters and political leaders, which enabled us to acquire
knowledge and to speak confidently on stage.
22nd February was a defining moment for us when our General, Fr. Adolfo Nicolas,
stepped into XTTI community. On this auspicious occasion all the religious groups from
Patna were invited to watch "The Light and Sound" program which was presented by the
juniors and novices. Indeed the audience was stunned by the professional touch with
which the program was produced. With this program, our General inaugurated XTTI‟s
Jubilee Year.
On 23rd February five of the Patna Jesuits, Fr. Sushil, Fr. Ignatius, Fr. Joseph, Fr. Marsen
and Fr. Martin pronounced their final vows. Fr. General was the Main Celebrant. The
evening started with an entrance dance by the B.Ed students of St Michael, while the
choir, conducted by Ranjit, was at its best..
On the 24 th , Fr General met the XTTI community at 8.00 a.m. In this short interaction he
spoke on the role of formators and formees and the interaction that should take place all
through the years of formation. He left us with a beautiful message where he wanted us to
strive to grow in the love of God which enables us to be transformed into new beings.
News from Kandy
- Ranjit Kerketta
The six month tertianship program in Kandy is coming to an end on February 28. The
months of January and February were spent on reading, discussing, reflecting and

interiorising the Constitutions, decrees of GCs and other relevant letters and documents
to be able to love and live an authentic Jesuit life. POSA, Fr. Hector, came to Kandy to
see us. He shared with us the major feelings and insights of GC 35. Fr. Jerry Rosario also
arrived in Kandy on February 16 th and for three days gave us an in depth insight into GC
35.
In the month of January the Tertians visited the Eastern coast, Baticaloa Province and
saw for ourselves the damage done by the ethnic war that has gone on for a quarter of a
century.. It is now under Government control but fear and uncertainty continue to haunt
the life of the people. Every hundred meter stretch of the road is guarded by armed
personnel. As the LTTE is being cornered to a small part of Mulaithivu in the North there
is great tension all over the Island. Your prayer for peace in Sri Lanka will make things
happen for the better.
- Romanus Kerketta
Courses:
At Atmadarshan, Patna
03 – 11 Apr : Holy Week Biblical Retreat directed by Fr Pius Thekemury, SJ and
Sr Valsa, HC
17 – 27 Apr : Retreating with the Prophets of the Bible : A Ten Day Retreat
At Upasana, Jamshedpur:
Directed by Fr Peter Ignatius, SJ
17 – 25 Mar : 8- Days Holistic Retreat (Open to all) directed by Fr Joseph
Njarakulam, SJ
22- 29 Mar : 7-Days Ordinandi Retreat for the OFM Deacons directed by
Fr C Gautam, SJ
Across the River
Fr. Willy Vandekerckhove(RAN) 88/69 expired on 15 February, 2009 in Belgium
Fr. Irudayam S. Michael (MDU) 88/66 expired on 16 February 2009 at Madurai.
Fr. Matthew Almeida (GOA) 73/56 died on 18 February 18, 2009 at Porvorim, Goa.

Birthdays March
02 Xavier Tuti
07 Niroj Bara
10 Pascal Dhanwar
12 Paul Julian Ekka
13 Asuthosh Pawan Toppo
16 Oscar Rodericks
18 Anthony Stevens
Cyril Tigga
22 Yakub Toppo
26 Biranchi Soreng
28 Bernard Bodra
29 Jerome Kerketta
30 Alexander Misquith
31 Alok Minj
John Berchmans Nag
Anniversaries
13 Mar – Fr Leon A Foster
26 Mar – Fr Bernard C O‟Leary
William Moran
28 Mar – Fr
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