CRI General Body Meeting: Reflecting on Manipur and Solidarity in Action

Dimapur 1 July 2023: The Catholic Religious Conference of India (CRI), its Dimapur Unit held a significant General Body Meeting, bringing together Provincials, Vice Provincials, Provincial representatives, rectors, superiors, and other religious of the region. The meeting provided an opportunity for sharing experiences, discussing plans, and addressing concerns within the religious community over what is happening in Manipour. The meeting began with a prayer led by the CRI President, setting a solemn and reflective tone for the gathering. The President also extended a warm welcome to all attendees, expressing gratitude for their presence and participation. One of the agenda items

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36 Clerics Ordained as Deacons at Sacred Heart Theological College in Shillong

Shillong, 1 July 2023: A momentous occasion took place this morning at the Sacred Heart Theological College as 36 clerics were ordained as deacons. The event was presided over by the Most Reverend Wilbert Marwein DD, the Bishop of Nongstoin, and witnessed by a gathering of over 200 faithful. The ordination ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Provincial of Shillong and the Vice Provincials of Dimapur, Guwahati, and Mumbai. The presence of these esteemed guests added to the significance of the occasion, highlighting the importance of the deacons’ role within the Church. The 36 deacons hailed from two

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XIII SUNDAY OF THE YEAR: 02 July 2023

MAKING ROOM…2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16a; Romans 6:3-4, 8-11; Matthew 10:37-42 The lady of the house instructed her butler before the start of a banquet: “Bentley, I want you to stand at the front door and call the guests’ names as they arrive.” “Very well, madam,” replied the butler, “I’ve been wanting to do that for years.” I guess we have all felt like Bentley and wanted to call our guests names – at least occasionally when we have had to welcome people who aren’t particularly welcome-able.But think of the times people welcomed us warmly, perhaps, with a broad smile, open

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Jubilation as Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel Appointed as the Second Bishop of Itanagar

Itanagar, 30 June 30, 2023 – The announcement of Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel’s appointment as the second Bishop of Itanagar by His Holiness, Pope Francis, has sparked jubilation in Itanagar, Kohima, and other places. The news was made known in Rome on 29 June, 2023, at 15:30 hours Indian time on the feast day Sts Peter and Paul. Fr. Benny Varghese’s appointment follows the resignation of Bishop John Thomas Kattrukudiyil upon reaching the age of 75. The Catholic community in Itanagar and Kohima eagerly awaits the leadership of their new shepherd. Fr. Benny Varghese was born on 22 April

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Fr Jose Palely SDB Appointed as Vice Chancellor of Assam Don Bosco University: A New Chapter in Leadership

Dimapur, 29 June 2023: Fr Jose Palely SDB has been appointed as the Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU), and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to him on this significant achievement. Fr Palely, a native of Kerala, was born on 8 August 1961. He made his first profession in the Salesian Congregation on 24 May 1981 at Sunnyside, Shillong, and was ordained on 28 December 1989. He belongs to the Salesian Province of Dimapur and has served in various capacities within the province. Fr Palely’s dedication and commitment have been evident throughout his diverse assignments. He has made

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Heeding the Whisper: Embracing God’s Transformative Touch

In ages past, two souls didst hear God’s voice,A fisherman and learned scholar bold.Their paths diverged, yet fate didst intertwine,Saints Peter and Paul, their stories untold. Oh, Peter! Thou, a humble fisherman,Casting thy nets on Galilee’s fair shore.Yet Christ didst beckon, calling thee by name,A vocation, transforming forevermore. A simple heart, impulsive and sincere,Thou walked on water, yet thy faith didst sway.Denied thy Lord, thrice counted ‘gainst thy name,Yet forgiven, thou became a rock, they say. And Paul, a Pharisee of zealous might,Breathing threats against the Church’s grace.But on Damascus road, a blinding light,Transformed thy heart, revealing Love’s embrace. Unworthy

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Anjel Priya Saikia of Amguri, Assam, Clinches Gold Medal in Northeast Zone India Taekwondo Competition

Amguri, 28 June 2023: Anjel Priya Saikia, a talented young taekwondo athlete from Amguri, Assam, has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the gold medal in the Northeast Zone India Taekwondo competition. The event took place at the Sonari College Indoor Stadium, where Priya showcased her exceptional skills and determination in the U-14 weight category. The Northeast Zone India Taekwondo competition witnessed intense battles among participants from different states. However, it was Priya’s unwavering spirit and dedication that propelled her to claim the top spot on the podium. Her impressive performance captivated the audience and showcased her prowess in the

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Dimapur Hosts Successful Two-Day Training Programme on Accounting Principles

Dimapur, 27 June 2023: A comprehensive two-day training programme on accounting principles was successfully conducted in Dimapur, with a focus on equipping newly appointed administrators, accountants, and other interested individuals with essential skills and knowledge. The programme, which commenced on 26 June 2023, concluded at 6:30 pm on 27 June 2023. The training programme, attended by a total of 21 participants, covered a wide range of topics to ensure a holistic understanding of accounting practices. The sessions were led by distinguished professionals and experts in their respective fields, providing valuable insights and practical guidance to the attendees.The programme commenced with

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St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Harmutty Inaugurates New School Building Amidst Dignitaries and Achievements

Harmutty: 24 June 2023: In a momentous event, St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School in Harmutty inaugurated its brand-new school building on 24 June 2023. The ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Bharat Narah, the honorable MLA, as the chief guest, and Fr Jose Kuruvachiura SDB, the Provincial of Dimapur Province, who graced the occasion as the guest of honour. The inauguration attracted a significant number of attendees, including notable figures from various communities. The newly constructed building boasts a total of 14 spacious classrooms, a well-equipped conference hall, three administrative rooms, modern washrooms, and a dedicated printing room. The

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XII SUNDAY OF THE YEAR: 25 June 2023

FEARLESS IN PERSECUTIONJeremiah 20:10-13; Romans 5:12-15; Matthew 10:26-33 On 22 May this year, a Catholic priest, Reverend Javier García, was killed in Michoacan, Mexico, the ninth slain in the country in the past four years. According to Agenzia Fides, 18 missionaries were killed worldwide last year: 12 priests, four religious, one seminarian, and one lay person. Today, as always, those who proclaim the Gospel and its values, those who stand for justice and truth, are ill-treated and persecuted. Some give up; most fight on. What sustains them? Today’s liturgy gives us an indication! The first reading describes Jeremiah’s difficult mission:

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