01 : Inauguration of Fr. Camil Bulcke’s Centenary Jubillee at XISS.

03 : Province Consult.

04 : Superiors’ Meeting.

08 : DSA Generalate at 6.00 a.m.

Final Vows of Fr. Prem Xalxo at 5.00 p.m. at Manresa House.

13 : Inauguration of Spirituality Centre, Namkum at 10.00 a.m.

G.B. Meeting of SXC at 5.00 p.m.

20 : Jubilee of Van Winckel, SXC

22 : Bingaon

23 : Maranghada

24 : Sarwada

25 : Dolda

29-Oct. 15: Guyana

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On the feast of St. Ignatius after the Holy Eucharist in the cathedral, the brothers gave a short felicitation program to the Jesuits of the community, in which they showed their happiness with our presence here. We enjoyed also a very beautiful program by the seminarians on August 15^th depicting various cultures of our country.

Our Jesuit Community members abroad emailed us that they are enjoying their ministry: Linus and Sudhir Kujur in Sicily and Sudhir Minj in Berlin. Linus also told us that he is busy preparing his course for the Gregorian. At home here we all were kept busy as usual. Next to our ordinary work here, most of us were also engaged outside the Seminary. Fr. Jos De Cuyper attended a general body meeting of the All Churches Committee to revitalize the same. Fr. Vijay Kamath spent a week in Jamshedpur to give part of his course in the B.Ed. College there. He also directed a recollection day at RTC Arsande for our theological students. Fr. Vincent Toppo was away for a few days in Raigarh for educating there priests and people how to organise and run the Marriage Encounter. Fr. Erik B. who had no classes at SAC this month gave a course on Faith and Revelation at R T C Arsande. This brought him seemingly in a spiritual mood. After the course he helped first the M.C. sisters in Hinoo, then those in Dibdih to prepare themselves for their Society’s feast. Now he is taking a course on the commandments for a group of M.C. sisters in Doranda. We all were taken aback by the happenings to our Christian brothers and sisters in Orissa. Fr. Jos De Cuyper had a meeting with the All Churches Committee on how to react to this. To conclude our activities it needs to be mentioned that Fr. Jonckheere had the joy of celebrating his 84^th birthday in the community with one cardinal and three bishops to grace the occasion. This made him realize that he is only fully 83 YOUNG.

Erik Breye s.j.

After two weeks of hectic shifting from ATC to the new building finally the novices moved into the new novitiate building on Aug. 8. Fr. Socius, Linus, Dungdung, blessed it on the 10^th of Aug. Fr. Piergiorgio Mennini and Br. Jayprakash Kullu, the new Superior and the new treasurer, joined the community. On Aug. 29 we had the first ever Jesuit Community meeting at the new building. We discussed matters related to the questions given by the Province Days’ Coordination Committee.

Fr. Walter

Various activities in the month of August aimed at the all-round development of the students. The Patriotic Song Competition was organized by the B. Ed Students on Aug. 14, while ‘Dhwani,’ a cultural group, organized the same on Aug. 15. For the catholic students a C.L.C programme was held on Aug. 15, to celebrate the Assumption of Our Lady. The college also witnessed the ‘Kavi Sammelan’ (an assembly of poets) on Aug. 17, to mark the beginning of the birth centenary of Dr. Fr. Camil Bulcke S.J., the renowned Hindi scholar and recipient of ‘Padma Bhushan’. As many as 20 poets from Kolkotta, Baroda, Delhi, M.P. and Patna along with the local poets presented their poems. The Hindi Department, however, had its own way of paying respect to Fr. Bulcke. It started the M.A. Course in Hindi Lit. from this session with 25 students. Other departments may also begin P.G. courses soon as IGNOU Study Centre from the College has been removed in order to facilitate more space.

In spite of their busy academic schedule some fathers found time for other works. Fr. Nabor went for the burial of his uncle. Fr. Walter went to Chennai to attend the Aicuf meeting while Fr. Nicho flew to Gauhati in connection with the affiliation of the Inter College in Balipara. On Monday Aug. 25^th Fr. Ephrem accompanied Fr. Leo to Jamshedpur who was admitted in Tata Meharbai Memorial Hospital. Fr. Leo showed some improvement after getting two units of blood. Leaving Fr. Leo in the care of a Novice Samir and Mr. Boas Fr. Ephrem came back to Ranchi on Aug 30. As the warm climate of Jamshedpur seems to be conducive to his health Fr. Leo preferred to stay in Jamshedpur for some more days. Kindly continue praying for him.

Fr. Ephrem

It has been raining successes in St. Xavier’s Doranda. Our school has taken a giant step in establishing an environment wherein each student develops the art of public speaking. For many a year, the school has been endeavouring in inculcating among students a sense of competitive attitude. As in the past, we conducted English and Hindi Elocution contests but with a new perspective. The students have become aware of our attempts and they performed well to upgrade the standard. It was duly observed that the pupils were more energetic this year in the development of the skill. Encouraged by their sincere efforts, the school decided to organize Inter ICSE Schools Elocution Contest for the city schools. Our school children Navneet Banka and Saurabh Sarawgi showed their mettle to outdo the other competitors.

It has been truly said that one success follows another if one dares to dream and aim high. We went ahead to organize another Inter ICSE Schools Debate Competition and we were assisted by the causes of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of the United Nations. To help the students understand the goals and to create awareness among them, a special team organized the debate on "ACHIEVING BASIC EDUCATION FOR ALL IS FUNDAMENTAL TO THE ERADICATION OF EXTREME POVERTY AND HUNGER." Mrs. Mridula Sinha, an IAS officer, was the chief guest for the event and she delivered a beautiful message on the topic. There was also a host of other distinguished personalities who deliberated on the subject matter to enthuse the vibrant audience. Our budding debaters Learin Mathew and Aniket Srivastava proved too good for the others and were declared the best debaters for the day.

The school this year received more laurels after a long gap of time when it was declared the Second Runner-up in the 55^th Inter Jesuit Speech and Elocution Contest 2008 held at St. Xavier’s Durgapur. All the three participants from our school were the cynosure of all eyes and managed to get kudos from the judges. Saurabh Sarawgi got the bronze medal in the junior section while Navneet Banka pulled off a creditable fifth position. Hammad Ayyubi too raised the flag of our school by bagging the fourth place. We are already being considered as the dark horses who could touch the tape in the near future.

Our joy knew no bounds when once again the cracking team of Harjas Singh and C B Rex overcame all the obstacles to surprise the Quizmaster Mr. Rodrigues, the Principal of Vikas Vidyalaya, on the way to achieve the crown in the Inter ICSE Schools Quiz Competition 2008. They were declared winners at the City level to represent Ranchi zone at Patna. The duo has in the recent past performed marvellously to win many a quiz contest.

As usual we are still moving ahead by leaps and bounds in the fields of sports. We have always encouraged those who excel in the arenas of sports. In the recently concluded Inter ICSE Schools Basketball Tournament (Ranchi Zone), our school made most of the baskets and stole thunder from the other teams. Furthermore, we were also the host for the Inter ICSE Regional level Basketball Championship 2008. We hosted the teams from Jamshedpur, Dhanbad and Bokaro. The organizing committee led by Mrs. Madhuca proved that we were the perfect host for such occasions. Again, here too, our school was the main force in winning the topmost position, especially in the junior category. Accordingly, our school players have been selected in good number to represent the Jharkhand Region at Allahabad in October this year.

The above achievements may not look significant to many but for us they are the catalysts for further steps towards future glories. We would like to cherish such moments as they help us to stand straight in the most difficult times. They are the small pieces of accomplishments which add joy to our lives and keep us ever cheerful and energetic. The school, they say, is a breeding ground for better citizens of the nation and we would like to give this belief the best chance in our school.

Ajit Xess

Fr. Van Bortel

On August 9 we celebrated the birthday of Fr. William Surin. He presided over the birthday mass with the sentiments of deep gratitude to God and the Society for the gift of life. His message was – "Life is full of celebration." The neighbouring communities also joined us to wish him on this occasion. On the 11^th Fr. Raymond and Sr. Anita Nag, OSU, gave a day of recollection to the CLC students of Loyola High School. On August 15 one of our pre-novices, Prabhudas, gave a patriotic speech at the flag hoisting. Loyola High School and St. Michael Middle School came together to the Loyola ground to hoist the national flag. The main attraction was the mass drill. Fr. Augustine accepted to be the chief guest on the occasion; he had to come from Chakradharpur leaving behind all his preparations for B. Ed. Exams. On August 28 Fr. K.C. Philip (ADF) and Shailendra Bara (PCF) made a short visit to our community. The pre-novices had an occasion to interact with them. They were encouraged to learn English seriously.

The LNN (Lok Nirman Netritva) committee members organised a two-days Double Khasi Football Tournament at the parish level to promote team spirit among the local youth. There were altogether 20 teams participating in it. Our pre-novices and Loyola Hostel boys also took part in it. The pre-novices were eliminated in the very first round of the tournament. The hostel boys fared better and reached the second round. Right now the school boys are busy in their first terminal examination and the pre-novices are getting ready with Hindi and English skits under the direction of Fr. Raymond and Sch. Amar. The whole community prays for the quick recovery of our Br. Suleman who is still undergoing medical treatment in Manresa House.

Sch. Justin Kujur

On July 7 we had the opening and inauguration ceremony of the 1^st Year Inter College in a newly constructed building. Fr. Principal and some dignitaries along with the staff and students were present for the ceremony. On the same day Sr. Jagrani Kullu joined the school staff as an asst. teacher. Now there are three Sisters in the community.

July 31 was celebrated with great pomp and jubilation. Bishop Tiru officiated the Holy Mass. A friendly football match was arranged between the staff and the Gandhi group, the champions of the inter group football tournament. The champions lost and the staff won. Football kits were distributed by the Principal to the Day Boarding football players. August 15, Independence Day, was also marked by special celebration. The national flag was hoisted by the Principal followed by various activities and ending with the prize distribution for the winners in the inter group football tournament, English and Hindi Speech competition, singing competition and mass drill.

Fr. Lazarus Minj

With our farsighted dreams and sound-footed steps we launched into July Month. We had already cross pollinated our plans and views during our community meeting in the last month and so we just needed to give a concrete shape to our blue print. Fr. Director and Fr. Prefect have refurbished themselves with the improved methodology to popularize the English language among the students after attending the English Language Workshop in St. John’s High School Ranchi. They say it was pretty worthwhile to adopt new techniques, at the same time it is equally challenging to drain out those into the interests of the students who hail from rural and remote setups. As the Inigo Divas was approaching our shoulders were getting loaded with different responsibilities. This year for the first time to mark the feast of St. Ignatius day extra special, we organized Inter House Competitions such as- Creative English and Hindi Writing, English and Hindi Speeches, Quiz, Painting and Craft Exhibition for all. Our painstaking effort was very interesting and was highly appreciated by the staff and students. Fr. Rector nourished our school students with his inspiring talk on St. Ignatius’ life during the assembly for three days. The Sacrament of Reconciliation was arranged for all the Catholic boys and girls of our school prior to the feast day. This year our dramas were super hit. The Apostolic boys sang an English Welcome song and staged two dramas- "The Tandoori Chicken (English)" and "Kitna Gahra Kitna Sathi (Hindi)." The Hostel boys staged "Prem Karo Kshama Karo (Hindi)" and three Nagpuri dances which exhilarated the audience. Fr. Peter Paul Soreng, the Vicar General of Simdega presided over the Holy Eucharist and a huge crowd was present to witness this historical event of the Jesuits. The choir led by Fr.Director, Schs. Ravi and Rajesh was really superb and it led all of us into deeper devotion. Fr. Sikander Tirkey too was present and he did not miss to capture video shots.  The supplementary examination for the intermediate students of Ranchi University, Simdega, is going on in our school. Fr. Suleman is the Centre Superintendent and even on 31^st he was fully engrossed in his exam duty. We had a welcome programme by the staff and students and prize distribution of Inter House Competitions on that day. We also had numerous guests and well-wishers all through the day. Fr. Vijay, the Big Mom of our community deserves a lot of patting for taking trouble in arranging everything. Arouse is conducting a training package to enhance and promote small scale industry for many deprived youths. There are 30 men for the motorcycle repairing and 67 women for knitting, weaving, embroidery and fancy woollen dress making. Fr. Isaac Xalxo and Fr. Christopher Lakra paid a flying visit to our community. We thank the hostellers and Apostolic Boys for carrying the rice saplings and the Ursuline and St. Anne Hostel girls who helped us in transplantation.

We thought to take a sigh of relief in August and in a relaxed pace we continued our joint efforts in the different fields. Fr. Provincial along with Fr. John Ekka and Fr. Francken visited our community and highlighted the gravity of Nishkalanka. He also put forth his vision and explained crystal clearly the advantages in opening up an English Medium School in the near future. The local MLA Mr. Niel Tirkey was our chief guest who hoisted the flag on Independence Day. Fr. Gabriel Xess surprised us all with his sudden visit. He took little time and fed the Apostolic boys with his spicy and delicious experiences. Fr. Vijay has started Spoken English for the Plus Two students. The First Terminal exam is over and inspired by the Beijing Olympic the school is conducting an Inter House Football Tournament for the boys and handball for the girls. Our girls’ toilet is complete whereas the flooring of our school quadrangle is in progress. The wizards of our hockey centre were the winners by 2-0 in Major Dhyanchand Memorial Hockey Tournament Simdega. On the occasion of St. Monica’s feast Fr.Rector and Fr. Vijay gave a recollection to mothers in Jharein and Sogra respectively. On 30^th evening Sch. Rajesh gave a recollection to the Apostolic Boys and emphasized discipline and time management. Fr. Rector had a narrow escape. He accidentally stepped over the ducks’ shit and had a Humpty Dumpy great fall which shook all his bones. So when you walk, be careful and look around……

Ravi

Our tertianship started on August 4. We are sixteen altogether including one each from Germany, Hungary and Sri Lanka. Our tertian instructors Frs. Jose Changanacherry and Baylen Perera and the community member of Arrupe Institute welcomed us warmly. On the following day all the tertians were invited to celebrate the feast of our Lady of Snows, the titular feast of Raia Parish. We joined in the Eucharist and festive meal. In the first week we had orientation and sharing of graced history. Then we had formation of soul companion and choosing of a personal guide. In the second week we had a Psycho-Spiritual Framework Workshop by Fr. Tony D' Souza sj. It helped us to discover our true and false self and become aware of inner peace, strength and freedom. On the 15^th of August Fr. Isayas Xess gave a patriotic speech. In the third week we had Enneagram, given by Fr. Mark Kulandairaj sj. It helped us to refocus our personality and overcome different kinds of compulsions. An Inner healing exercise through Yoga gave us the proper disposition for prayer. An evening with Fr. Tony Da Silva, Provincial of Goa and His grace Rt. Rev. Philip Neri  Archbishop of Goa challenged us to become true disciples of Christ. At the end we had an autobiography of St. Ignatius which moved us to see God's work in our own life. In preparation of the long journey with the Lord which is beginning from September 4 to October 5 we had a pilgrimage to Bom Jesus, Old Goa.

Our changed Mobile No. Fr. Kamal   09604107377; Fr. Isayas  09604107308

                                                                           Fr. Kamal 

A bit of news from the Holy land, certainly not of Rome but of Banaras. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) started its classes from 28^th July. Dr. Denrender P. Singh, the Vice Chancellor's inaugural speech brought us in our regular study mood.

We the six community members [Fr. Joy S.J (Del), Fr. Mathew O.C.D, Fr. Norbert S.J (NEP), and 3 Scholastics] celebrated St. Ignatius Feast with Rev. Bishop Raphy Manjally of Banaras Diocese, together with 50 different religious members.

On August 2 we had our first community meeting, during which Fr. Superior Joy John made us feel at home. We planned our community life as it is the first time that Jesuit scholastics have come here for P.G. study.

Fr. Daniel S.J. (KER) Principal of St. Joseph College of Commerce, Bangalore, came for UGC Staff Refreshment programme which was held at BHU on 5-25 Aug. On the 14^th Fr. Joy left for Kerala for his check up. The heavy rain on August 19 broke the record of 23 years. Meanwhile Fr. George D.D, (Punjab) former student of BHU came to submit his Ph.D. thesis.  

Sch. John J. Kujur

After going through a long process, such as, MET entrance test, MET group discussion and Interview in Bhopal I got admission in the newly launched course PGDM by XIDAS. Taking part in this process to get an admission in PGDM has left me with certain rich experiences and lessons for life. These challenges inspire me to excel in my studies.

On 21st of August Dr. Binita Samuja, the Vice Chancellor of MBA program, inaugurated the new course. Unexpectedly, there are 52 students on the roll: 42 boys and 10 girls hailing from 13 different states. Our classes are in full swing now. I am trying my best to get the required managerial skills through these studies.

On 29th August XIDAS was off in solidarity with the victims of violence and in protest against the unceasing vanadalism taking place in Orisa. To mark the event 30 of us PGDM students went out to a restaurant for meal. Seeing us in such a big group many people started questioning us. In course of interaction we imparted our message to the city.

Fr. Alphonse Aind

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To commemorate the centenary year of the CNT Act, Fr. Manu accompanied a group of 50 parishioners to Sarwada parish where Fr. Hoffman lived and worked. It was a pilgrimage cum an outing for the group. It was a beautiful journey down the memory lane of past history, said the group members. The group was overawed by the magnificent hospitality extended by the Jesuits of Sarwada. We believe, our short visit too has made an impact on the lives of the people of Sarwada. This programme was the outcome of the farsightedness of Fr. Manu to keep the parishioners abreast of the CNT Act in the centenary year in a creative way. We celebrated Monica Day on August 24 which witnessed the presence of children and husbands in large number besides the mothers. The liturgy of the day was conducted in an excellent way by the mothers themselves. Of course, the ‘Taruns’ lent a big helping hand. Right now the parish campus is buzzing with melodies of novena prayers conducted in honour of Mother Mary of Vellankanni. A good turnout for the prayer, mostly of women, is witnessed. We expect the number to increase as the momentum picks up. A free medical check up camp is already on the cards under the aegis of the hyperactive parish Catholic Sabha. We look forward to some more similar kind of activities to keep the parishioners active and going. Aren’t all these signs of a parish community full of life and vigour?

Fr. Suman Baxla.

Br. Stephen finished transplantation well in time before festivities began. He had to employ a tractor to plough many fields and get the help of the students of the school. The feasts of St. Anne and St. Ignatius were celebrated solemnly. The Fathers and Sisters from the West Barway Deanery came to join in our celebration.

There was also an untoward incident about a boy from our school shut in Gumla jail for a week before he was bailed out. He had been accused by a particular community of misbehaviour. Another student was hit by a reckless motorcyclist and was very badly injured. Thanks to the Ursuline Srs. of Tongo who took care of him before reaching him to RIMS.

Fr. Beatus is busy beautifying our surroundings by planting flowers and clearing off wild and unwanted shrubs. He is also planting saplings in the school compound. Fr. Xavier also is busy with his "Gram Shiksha Samiti" in spite of certain hurdles on his way. The PP has completed his audience with various associations of the parish. His main concern right now is to organise the youth. He has entrusted the job to a committee led by Fr. Beatus. The parish celebrated St. Monica’s Day on Aug. 31 with the Holy Eucharist that was preceded by a day of recollection and followed by a variety entertainment programme of three hours.

Fr. Elvius

The month of August was marked by frequent heavy downpour with thunder and lightening. It enhanced greenery but left villages and village roads slushy and mucky. The road to Rumtukel was pathetic. However, it could not deter the movement of the people for their daily work and to the weekly market.

Poor visibility caused by heavy rain and darkness impaired the expert and fast driving of Fr. Raju and forced him to jump over the fence-like-bush. The ambulance escaped dashing against a protruding rock and halted after few tumbling and bouncing in the field. Sleeping co-travellers woke up only to find themselves in the ‘maduwa khet’.

The sound of the Week-long drumming for march past became silent with sudden disruption in hoisting the National Flag. The well-decorated spot for flag hoisting, the evenly marked ground and the children with their neat and clean uniform could not show their performance on the day. Soon after the Holy Eucharist the children and staff and teachers had a short meeting and left the campus with gloomy faces, leaving all the people and students from neighbouring villages and schools, who had already occupied their places around the ground. Tea and snack stalls were puzzled to see people going home. Some even asked, ‘pared ka hobaowa?’

There has not been any respite from Malaria. The majority of the cases reported are P.F. Due to headache and fever, an average of 6 to 10 students goes back home from the school every day. On the 23^rd of August Sr. Prabha and her team of CHABIJ presented some preventive method to the students and some of their guardians. However, at present we do require some curative measures followed by preventive measures. Unfortunately, our Sr. Nurse herself was in ICU and now recuperating in Ranchi. The only option left is to rush either to Murhu or Khunti.

Fr. Sushil

On Aug. 1 Fr. John Guria visited us. He was briefed by our parish priest, Fr. Cyril Guria about the recently dug tube well and other activities in the parish. The parish priest needed some medical treatment as he contracted malaria. Fr. Brice was busy conducting inter group football matches and march past practice in preparation for Aug. 15. Fr. Cyril unfurled the national flag on that day. The president of the Catholic Sabha, the former headmaster of the High School and some other guests honoured the occasion. A student of class V gave the speech. The Girls’ Middle School also joined us for the flag hoisting. After the flag hoisting ceremony three football finals of Kids, Juniors and Seniors were played. The winners were awarded a full grown "Murga".

On August 17, a group of pilgrims from Kanke parish, accompanied by Fr. Emmanuel Horo, two St. Anne Sisters and two theology students from Tarunoday came to Sarwada. The pilgrims had a rosary procession from 1 km away. At their arrival the Mahila Sangh of Sarwada gave them a traditional welcome by washing their feet. They were delighted to have come to one of the oldest missions.

On August 24 night some thieves broke open the headmaster’s office the staff room of the middle school damaging the doors and some shelves. It seemed that they came for money, but they were disappointed.

Florence

As the month of July began, Fr. Albert and the workers planned and worked hard and completed the sowing and planting of rice, peanuts and other vegetable seeds. Meanwhile Fr. Tej Mati attended the English language workshop, held in St. John’s High School, Ranchi on July 4-5, 08. Just after this on the 8^th the school council, R.C. Middle school Sogra, took the oath to serve the school family through their respective departments. Prior to the feast of St. Anne, Fr. Albert assisted the sisters of Tamra in their spiritual preparation and joined them on 26^th July in their joyful celebration. The well known tournament of the parish namely "Jhora Khasi Cup" began on 27^th July under the parish youth committee. A good number of villagers came to enjoy their favourite game. The staff members of R.C. Middle school organized the Inter House Football Tournament for the students from 24^th and the final matches for the boys and girls were held on the 31^st after the cultural programme. Fr. Albert presided over the Eucharist celebration and called upon the congregation to become brave and courageous like St. Ignatius for God’s work. 

Fr. Tej Mati sj 

W. Pillen

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The month of August was a period of grace for Diglipur. Fr. Ranjit Toppo,s.j, provincial, reached Diglipur on 12^th August. He was accompanied by Fr. David Bara, s.j, Zonal Superior. After two days of annual visitation he went to Ramnagar.

All the Jesuits, except Fr. Elias Kullu, gathered at Ramnagar for the meeting and sharing of the apostolate on the evening of 15^th August. Fr. Provincial expressed his gratitude to all the fathers working in the Andamans and gave some inputs to become an effective missionary in the vineyard of God. The meeting was concluded with the agape meal. Our sincere thanks to the Cluny sisters who took trouble to prepare a delicious meal.

On 18^th Fr. Edward gave a recollection to the Fathers and Sisters of Rangat. He returned on the following day. There was a recollection by Fr. John for the Mahila Sangh on 21^st August as a preparation for the feast of St Monica, the patron saint of the mothers. Some 50 women participated in it. The feast of St. Monica was celebrated on the 24^th. The Holy Eucharist started with the entrance dance followed by an introduction to the life of St. Monica. Fr. Edward presided over the Mass followed by a felicitation programme for the mothers. On this occasion the mothers wore their traditional Adivasi dress. They were happy to receive gifts and garlands from youth and children. Now the novena to Velankani Mata has started. This year pilgrimage to Velankani Mata is scheduled for September 6.

John Dungdung

Prothrapur
We concluded the month of July with Inigo Day and welcomed the month of August with adoration. On 10^th August by Fr. Provincial landed in the Andamans for the visitation. Around 2.00 P.M. during the siesta hour, Fr. Provincial could not understand, why somebody would disturb him by knocking the door, windows and shaking his bed. After a few seconds he realized that it was an earthquake. In the evening he had a meeting with Adivasi intellectuals of the Andamans. Again after returning from Diglipur and Ramnagar, he had a meeting with the parish council and Adivasi intellectuals on 18^th and 19^th. Thank you Fr. Provincial for boosting and encouraging us in our mission.

The weather of the Andamans has not yet compromised with Fr. Elias. On 22^nd August he had to be admitted in Pillar Hospital for the second time. To keep the sweet memories of Fr. Joseph Minj, S.J we had Fr. Joseph Memorial Football Tournament on the Panchayat ground on the 24^th. Fourteen Teams participated in it. The Semi-final and Final Matches were on the 31^st. The Carbynscove Team lifted the victory trophy by beating Bhatu Basti 4-0. That was the day when we celebrated "St. Monica Diwas" in a grand manner. While Fr. David was the main celebrant, Fr. Elias took hold of the mandar. After the cultural programme the parishioners relished the chicken briyani.

Elias Kullu.

Pengree:

Konapathar’s St. Stanislaus School new building was cast on 22 August. Fr. Provincial Fr.Ranjit was here for the visitation on 26-28 August. The visitation was to us a real support and encouragement. Pengree celebrated St. Monica's Day on 31^st August. There was very good participation from all the units.

Fr. Telesphore Lakra, S.J.

The road from Barpeta to Manas Bansbari has improved a lot. This year there was much rain but due to the reservoir prepared to block the running of the Beki river's water not much damage was done to the property and the lives of the people in the area. Our garden looks green with various vegetables.

Mushalpur

St. Xavier's School building is coming to its completion very fast. The tin-sheets are already put on the roof. Plastering is going on. Scholastic Manohar is the computer teacher in the school.

Fr. Vital Ekka S.J.

Kathalguri

St. Ignatius School building is coming up very fast. Mr. Ranjit, the contractor, is very keen to hand over the new buiding by the end of December 2008. Brother Pascal Tigga, the builder, arrived with Fr. George Burh to Kathalguri one day late. There was Bengal as well as Assam bandh therefore they were stranded in one of the stations and came the next day. Fr. Mukul was at Alipurduwar railway station to receive them.

Fr. Mukul Lakra S. J.

Balipara

Monica Day was celebrated in Balipara Parish on Sunday August 24. A lot of preparation was done by Sr. Pratibha and Fr. James. Both of them had been to different villages, tea gardens and units every day for a month for the singing practice and programme practices. Their hard work really bore good fruit. This year there were more than 900 people who were present for the celebration. Fr. Xavier Lakra gave them the recollection the day before. Fr. Christopher presided over the Eucharistic celebration. A variety entertainment programme was also of good standard. At the end of the programme all were served snacks and tea.

On the same day Gana Chetna Samaj organized a meeting in Pan Bari in Rangapara Parish where 4 new units were included in the list of Gana Chetna Samaj. One Study centre was opened for them. Fr. Provincial Fr. Ranjit Toppo, who was on visitation, was the chief guest for the occasion.   Mr. Rajiv Soreng has joined the Gana Chetna Samaj after finishing his M.S.W. studies, strengthening the hands of Fr. George Soreng.

On the 22^nd Fr. Provincial, Frs. Nicholas Tete, the Principal of the autonomous College Ranchi, Christoher Lakra and Xavier Lakra met the minister of Higher Education to get the N.O.C. for the Degree College in Balipara. The meeting was very cordial and we were given the assurance that the NOC will be given soon. The construction of the college building is in full swing at Sola Basti and St. John's Girls' hostel at Balipara is also in progress.

Xavier left for a European tour on 27th August and landed in Belgium safe and sound on 28th August.

Fr. Xavier Lakra, S.J

CAMBODIA: Siem Reap

The last week of June we had Magis Experiment-08 preparatory meeting held at Jesuit Service Reflection Centre, Siem Reap. The purpose of the meeting was to welcome the Youth from different countries for Magis Experiment-08 before they go for the World Youth Day in Sydney.

On 5^th July 8 Taiwanese and 6 Germans and 6 Cambodians came to the Reflection Centre for Magis Experiment Programme. The purpose of this Experiment was to give a taste of Ignatian Spirituality to the young people who are searching for meaning in their life. From 6^th to 10^th July we had different programmes e.g. Inter Religious dialogue (Faith dialogue with Monks), Khmer Culture and tradition, Land mine survival, tourism etc. The programme was a great success. The youth appreciated the programme, hoping that in the near future this programme continues.

  On 30^th all the Jesuits gathered in Battambang Prefecture to celebrate our founder’s feast day. On the 31^st morning we had a sharing session based on GC 35. In the afternoon 2.30 pm we started a solemn precession with Khmer dance to the main Cathedral of Battambang Diocese. We had solemn Eucharistic Celebration with parishioners. In the evening more than 300 guests came for the fellowship meal. On the 1^st of Aug Fr. Manoj attended the joint meeting of Jesuit Service Advisory and Jesuit Consult meeting in Battambang.

From 12 to16 Aug we had teacher's training (workshop) Programme for three provinces of Cambodia (Kandal, Banteay Minchai and Siem Reap) supported by Jesuit Service. More than 50 teachers participated in it. On the 22^nd Fr. Manoj took 6 teachers of Siem Reap Province to Koh Kong for teacher Exposure programme.

Manoj

GUYANA

Sharing God's love: The past two months for the Jesuits working in Guyana, were the days of sharing of the spiritual food with all the brethren through retreats, leadership camps, volunteer-services etc. It was wonderful to see the givers of the word of God so eager and the receivers so receptive.

 Rich Guyana: The land of Guyana looks rich with the coming of many Indian Jesuits as missionaries this year. It is also very encouraging to see the flow of many lay-volunteers to Guyana from different countries to share their experiences of God's care & concern for all the people. The lay collaboration in the Church in Guyana is something very beautiful.

Independence day: Some of us went to the Indian cultural centre for the flag hoisting on the 15^th of August. We met the Indian High Commissioner and shared in brief our experiences of mission-work in Guyana. He sincerely appreciated our work & wished us all the best.

Carifesta X: The capital Georgetown looks extremely colourful now due to the celebration of CARIFESTA- X (Caribbean festival). Artists from the Caribbean and the Diaspora are welcomed  here in Georgetown for the celebration. The days of Carifesta celebration is from 22 Aug. to 31^st Aug. The govt. has extended warm and traditional Guyanese greetings to all the participants in Carifesta X. It is believed that this cultural extravaganza will showcase the nation and the Caribbean to the world and provide the citizens and artists with a golden opportunity to perform and flaunt their skills. This Carifesta will highlight Guyana on the world stage and give a fillip to performers of cultural drama. The cultural show in all the places is free. Among all the Hindus, Muslims and Christians the experience of universal brotherhood is deeply experienced.

New Stamps: The Guyana post office  has released three new stamps in celebration of a cluster of Jesuits anniversaries occurring around this time - The Jesuits 150 years in Guyana in 2007; the beginning of St. Stanislaus College on the Brickdam site in 1907, and the 100^th Anniversary of the establishment of the St. Ignatius mission, Lethem, in 1909. Taken together the three stamps form a triptych which symbolises the major themes of the Jesuit work in Guyana thus far - pastoral ministry (The Sacred Heart church); the education apostolate (St Stanislaus College) and the evangelisation of the Guyanese interior (Two Amerindians with Fr Cary Elwes SJ).

 Fr Anil Kishore SJ

For the Egyptians, more than three and a half months' long summer holiday is coming to an end. Sea beaches and tourist centres are becoming less crowded as they go back home. The new academic year of all Schools and Colleges will begin together on Sept 20. Our Regional meeting (August 25-29) was based on the main topics of GC 35 and Rev Fr Peter Hans Kolvenbach, the former Superior General, was to share his rich experience as a special guest. Unfortunately his sudden ill health didn't permit him to travel. We wish him a speedy recovery. In the month of August, he had conducted the eight days' annual retreat for the Jesuit scholastics of the Near East Province in Syria.

This was the 1^st time that to bring a happy ending to the Regional meeting, our three second year novices pronounced their first vows on the 29^th noon. To add to our joy and happiness their family members were present for the occasion. Soon all three of them will go to Lebanon for the Juniorate studies.

Bimal Kerketta, sj.

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16: Ekka Anthony

Ekka Patras

Tirkey Alexius

17: Minj Claver

21: Bage Tej Mati

Dang Edwin

Kandir Stephen

Toppo Christopher R

23: Kujur Linus

Kujur Pingal

24: Mennini Piergiorgio

Tirkey Ignatius J.

25: Baxla Tej Kumar

01: Lakra Leonard

04: Tirkey Anil K.

Sandil Rajesh A.

05: Matthijs Francis

08: Aind Marcus S.

Lakra Ignatius

Mosahari Rosario

09: Beck Walter

11: Beck Suman

Kerketta Michael

Minj Anthres

Toppo James Ign.

12: Kerketta Pradeep

Minj Billianus

Surin Victor

13: Tigga Naveen X.

14: Tete Callixtus

15: Baxla Suman J.

Minj Lazarus

Fr. Leonard Lakra is admitted in Jamshedpur Tata Memorial Hospital.

Fr. Louis Francken is admitted at Ara Gate.

Fr. Anthony Delporte is admitted in Holy Family Hospital, Mandar.

Br. Suleman Dungdung, after coming back from HFH Mandar is recuperating at MH.