NORTHEAST INDIA PROVINCE, MSFS PROVINCIALATE

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1 Dear Confreres, NORTHEAST INDIA PROVINCE, MSFS PROVINCIALATE GPO Booxx Noo ,,, GUWAHATII Teel l: : // FFaaxx Website: provincialnortheastmsfs@gmail.com/provincialsecretarynortheast@gm GPA/25 Circular September 2017 WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY FEAST OF MARY MOTHER OF COMPASSION ON SEPTEMBER 15 AND OF FATHER PETER MARIE MERMIER OUR BELOVED FOUNDER AND SERVANT OF GOD ON SEPTEMBER 30! Mary, Mother of Compassion: The Jews believed that every first-born male, of cattle as well as humans, was sacred to God (Ex.3:2). In recognition of God s gracious power in giving human life, they had a ceremony whereby parents could symbolically buy their son back. The other ceremony was Purification after Childbirth. After giving birth, a woman was held to be ritually unclean for 40 days if she had given birth to a son, for 80 if a daughter. At the end of this time, she was to offer two gifts to God in the Temple. One was a lamb in thanksgiving for the birth of a child, the other a young pigeon, which was to remove the ritual uncleanness. If a family couldn t afford the lamb, they were permitted to offer another pigeon instead (Lev 12:8). This offering of two pigeons came to be called the Offering of the poor. Luke s Gospel of the Poor mentions (v.24) that this was the offering of Mary and Joseph. It showed that they were lower middle class at best, having no luxuries, sacrificing to make ends meet, accounting for every penny spent, and knowing the insecurity of life. The devout Simeon was one of these. He was the quiet man, the man who listens. As a result of listening to the Holy Spirit, he came into the Temple (v.27). He held the babe, whom he recognized as the Messiah, the salvation of God, in his arms. Then he uttered a prayer that told the Lord that he was ready to depart this life in peace, his words echoing the prophecies found in Isaiah s Book of Consolation. Isaiah had seen the universal outreach of God s mercy, and now Simeon began by blessing God for sending salvation to the whole world (vv.30f). In fact, Simeon proceeded sadly to give his mother a summary of Jesus fate (vv.34f). He predicted that Jesus would receive much opposition. It was hard for Mary to believe that this baby in her arms would be the downfall of anyone, but the full story would prove it to be true. People who have heard of Jesus are judged by their reaction to him, and many scandalized by his humility poverty, and death on the cross would not follow him. That Jesus would be the rise of many, Mary found easier to believe. As it would turn out, Jesus would extend the helping hand that many people needed to lift them up out of a life of sin into a new life of goodness. Just as there is no such thing as neutrality in values, there is no neutrality on Jesus. One either surrenders to him or is at war with him. By one s stand one lays bare one s heart (v.35). Capping it all, Mary herself would be pierced with a sword of sorrow as At the cross her station keeping, stood the mournful Mother weeping, Close to Jesus to the last. Through her heart, his sorrow sharing, All his bitter anguish bearing, Now at length the sword had passed. The sword of sorrow of Mary reminds me of what Oscar Wilde had once written. At the height of Wilde s career, he was jailed on a moral charge. The humiliation that followed upon this devastated him. It also purified him. In De Profundis Wilde wrote, Where there is sorrow, there is holy ground. Anyone who has experienced deep sorrow can relate to that

2 statement. Mary certainly have related to it. We sometimes forget that she experienced deep sorrow in her lifetime. Today, together with Mary, we shall also recognize and accept in our own lives this holy ground of sorrow and compassion. We need to be compassionate with ourselves, with others, and with God himself. First, we need to be compassionate with ourselves by accepting our own limitations. Second, we have to be compassionate with others as they are also prone to similar imperfections as that of ours. Third, we ought to be compassionate with God whose inscrutable plans we often fail to understand by allowing him to achieve his plans concerning us. Fr Peter Marie Mermier: Fr Peter Mermier, the Founder of the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales and of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross of Chavanod, was born on August 28, He died on September 30, 1862 at 9 in the morning. When Bishop de Thiollaz died at the age of 80 in March 1832, the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales lost a father who encouraged and helped their first steps. On July 2, 1832, a new Bishop, Mgr Pierre Joseph Rey, was appointed in his place. After his taking charge on October 2, 1832, Fr Mermier and Fr Allard came to see him and requested his approval for the new Congregation. The Bishop asked them to wait for some time. Fr Mermier was ready to wait, but his companions were not ready for that. Fr Allard and Fr Revillord left the group. Even Fr Jacques Martin spoke of giving up. In such a hard situation, Fr Mermier remained patient and wanted to continue the mission with the words: I want Missions. On January 30, 1842, Bishop Rey died in Annecy at the age of 72. He wanted to ask the Holy See s approval for the MSFS Congregation, but died before he could do that. On September 20, Fr Mermier went to meet Canon Louis Rendu who had just been appointed Bishop of Annecy. He told the Bishop of his letter to Rome. Bishop Rendu urged him to go personally to Rome in order to obtain the required approval for the Congregation. Fr Mermier arrived in Rome on September 30, 1842 and found lodgings with the Basilian Fathers and started contacting people for getting his work done. Having no friends at Rome, he came up against closed doors. During the long wait, Fr Mermier continued very patiently to take the necessary steps. On June 2, 1843, based on a favourable report given by Cardinal Ferretti, the Sacred Congregation of Bishops and Religious conferred on the humble Founder and his Institute the Decree of Praise. Some of the letters which he wrote to his confreres in Annecy from Rome contains his tryst with patience: He wrote to Fr Cheminal that the beginnings were terrible. However, Fr Mermier was never tired of doing what is right. He persisted with his request to Rome for approbation of the Constitution in patience and humility. Fr Mermier never believed that we should suffer blindly without any specific and noble purpose. For him, suffering is necessary and meaningful when it is recognized as the Will of God. It was a shocking news for Fr Mermier to hear of the death of Fr Martin, the first Superior of the Visakhapatnam Mission. Fr Mermier also esteemed and promoted patience through his writings, especially through his letters and personal notes. He wrote of practice of patience. He considered patience as will of God, an important virtue for a missionary, a quality of zeal and charity. He valued patience in unavoidable delays, in suffering, in dealing with other members of community and for success of one s ministry. As a true missionary Fr Mermier bore witness to the Gospel of Christ till his last breath in great patience: utterly unselfish, afire with zeal for the salvation of humans, charged with compassion at the sight of evil and sin, and thus holy and blameless before the Lord who called him to be a missionary. It is worth pondering on what he advised his confreres on one occasion. We do much in doing little, if we do it for God, when and as he wants it. Appointments and Transfers: Fr Noble Jose Nakathingal is is designated to be appointed Associate Priest at Queen of Peace, Grassy Park, Cape Town, South Africa, with the effect from September 7, Fr Bibin Martin Puthuppaliyil is designated to be appointed Associate Priest at Christ the King, Luderitz, Keetmanshoop, Namibia, with the effect from September 20, 2017

3 Fr Thomas Vanderkunnel is designated to be appointed Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Parish, Midrand, Pretoria, South Africa, with the effect from September 30, Fr Joseph Puliyilakatt is designated to be appointed Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Parish, Ermelo, Dundee, South Africa, with the effect from December 1, Additional Responsibilities: Fr Michael Jacob Chottakara is appointed Local Superior of the MSFS Local Community, Galsi, with effect from September 10, Fr Varghese Prakuzhy is designated to be appointed Parish Priest of St Francis de Sales Parish, Galsi, with effect from September 10, Fr Devasia Manalel is appointed Interim Director of LCI, Arusha, by Superior General with effect from September 10, Constitution of Provincial House into a Formed Community With the approval of Superior General and consent of the Provincial Council and in accordance with the prescriptions of the Constitution and General Directory, MSFS Provincialate, Guwahati, is already constituted into a Formed Local Community by Rev. Fr George Panthanmackel, Provincial, with effect from September 19, Fr Varghese Chettupuzhakaran, the Local Superior, Fr Santhosh Chavaranal, the Local Bursar, Fr Jose Thekkel and Fr Nongbak Arengh Clean, the House Councillors, will place themselves at the service of the Community. Canonical Visitation to Confreres in USA During my visitation to confreres in USA, I had the occasion to meet all Northeast India Province confreres personally at their own respective places, except the one who was to be away at home since his father was seriously ill. All of them Fr George Thayilkuzhithottu, Fr Daniel (Biju) Chennala, Fr Augustine (Joshy) Kulangara, Fr Jacob Dio D, Fr George Kunnel and Fr Tomichan Moonnanappallil are doing well and fully committed to their ministries. I had also the opportunity of meeting three bishops who were extraordinarily cheerful, simple and pleasantly hospitable. I also visited Fr Davis Chackalackal and Fr Joseph Kuzhupil who continue to radiate the Fransalian joy, well-appreciated by the confreres and faithful. I thank Fr Joe Pottemmel, the Vice Provincial Bursar, for his generous hospitality and cheerful availability to help me whenever I was need of. After visiting confreres, I came to Atlanta and animated retreat for the confreres of USA Vice Province, who inspiringly and actively participated in the retreat. Glad to know and experience personally the dynamic leadership of Rev. Fr Tomy Puliyanampattayil, the Vice Provincial, and the wholehearted cooperation of all confreres with him. A Humble Testimony to Lord s Love On August 25, 2017, I reached San Antonio against the threat of hurricane, faced with heavy wind and continuous rain. On 26th I received the news that my flight to Atlanta was cancelled due to hurricane. Fr Tomichan Moonnanppallil contacted the travel-office, but without a positive result. Then I suggested to Fr Tomichan that we could pray a rosary and would do whatever God wants of us. As we finished two decades of the rosary, we received a call that suggested diverting of the flight via Denver to Atlanta without any additional payment. We welcomed the proposal and on 27 th morning I was able to fly out to Atlanta reaching the destination after six hours of travel, without much loss of time. This is my humble and constant prayer that I never forget the numerous acts of God s love and concern towards me, also this particular incident. Auditing of Accounts at Two Levels In the Province, there will be auditing of accounts at two levels from the present financial year: auditing by Provincial Bursar with his team and by Auditor Generals. The Provincial Bursar, as ordinary canonical and constitutional custodian of finances, will audit all accounts following the existing practice, as per the demands of the Constitutions (also General Directory) and Province Statutes. The Auditor Generals will audit the

4 accounts with the following procedure and manner: 1.The whole Province will be divided into five zones, namely Guwahati, Shillong, Medziphema, Silapathar and Aalo; 2. The internal auditing by Auditor General and Associate Auditor General will begin on April 15; 3.The internal auditors will be present in the respective zones. 4.The accounts that are audited in the respective dioceses will be internally audited on priority basis; 5.The team will audit all the accounts of the centres; 6. The team will check all the accounts and financial transactions of the previous financial year (April-March); 7. The team will check all income and expenditure, namely fees collected, stationery, bus, bank loans taken if any, any other income such as agricultural, livestock, selling of vehicles, machinery, salary register of teaching, non-teaching (domestic) staff etc; 8.The team will counter check all the bills and vouchers, particularly those of the bank transactions; 9.The team will check the bank statements of the previous financial year; 10.The team can ask for necessary clarifications about the accounts for the purpose of reporting; 11.The team will ensure that the accounts are in tally with the help of the accountants of the Province/Region; They will give educative directions if necessary in the report; 12. Audit team will only look into the income and expenditure and will assess and see if the practices are in tune with the law of the land, the guidelines and directions of the Constitutions of the Congregation and the Statute of the Province and the team will submit a detailed report of audit findings along with the trial balance of all the accounts to Provincial who will place it before the Provincial Council. Half Yearly Internal Audit The Half yearly internal audit will begin from the First week of October. The Provincial Bursar and the Regional Bursar accompanied by the accountants will be visiting the centres as per the schedule given. The requirements for the time of internal audit are given below. Kindly make sure that these requirements are well furnished so that the internal audit will go on smoothly, and the time allotted may be respected by all. The centres, which do not have Tally Programme installed in their computers and those who lost their previous data, are requested to inform us in advance, so that what we have in our server can be brought and uploaded for reference. Registers and Other Requirements to be Kept Ready for the Audit I.Audited report of the previous year ( ) II.Updated statements of all operating bank accounts (Till ) III. Of Parish/Community (April-Sept. 2017) 1. Cashbook of April-September Receipts Book 3. Box Collection Register 4. Bills and vouchers of Parish/community Expenses 5. Salary Register of Domestic Staff 6. Personal Allowance Register IV Of School (April-Sep. 2017) 1. Cashbook 2. Salary Register of Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff 3. Admission Register 4. Receipt Books of Admission Fee, Tuition Fee, Smart Class and Computer Fee 5. Bills and Vouchers 6. Classwise Enrolment Register of Students NB: Ensure that the Records of all income collected through the bank is kept (Admission and Tuition Fee etc.) V Of Stationary

5 1. Purchase Register/ Bills Record 2. Selling Price List 3. Cash Book/Sale Record Register 4. Receipts and vouchers VI Of Bus 1. Cashbook 2. List of students Travelling with the amount collected (Distance Wise) 3. Receipt book/register VII Of Registered Society 1. List of the Present Governing Body Members 2. Activity Report of the Previous year 3. AGBM,GBM Reports 4. A Copy each of The Memorandum of Association, Certificate of Registration and PAN card (For documentation) Dates of Auditing and Places HALF YEARLY INTERNAL AUDIT APRIL - SEPTEMBER 2017 Sl No. Place Team.01 Team Amlarem September Mawrengkneng September Tato 8-9 October Purul October Kangpokpi October Kaying October Imphal Press October Yingkiong October Pasighat 14 October Along Parish October Along Collage and School October Jonai October Telam October HRRC Tura 20 October Gogamukh October Somonpara October Nongalbibra October Bahalpur- Chappar October Basar October Tenning November Peren November Mankolemba November Chandrapur November Panbari November Panishali November 2017

6 26. Chabua Novitiate November Chabua Parish November Dhemaji November Silapathar November Hamren November Diphu 30 November Medziphema School and Parish December Medziphema Seminary December Sateek December Lengpui 20 December Thamarasssery 31 December 37. Galsi January Umroi 15 January Shillong Study House 16 January Mawkhlam 17 January Umwahlang January Manikbond January Sindukpathar 28 January East Harina 29January Amarpur January 2018 Information of / Thanks / Congrats /Appreciation To: Fr John Barman for participating in the World Youth Parliament organized by Idente Youth and Chinese People s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) in Beijing, China from August 6 to 11, 2107, and for organizing Fransalian Youth Fresher's day at MSFS Study House, Shillong, on August 20, Fr Lijeesh Kaduthanathu and Fr Jaimon Thadathil who secured MLA fund for the construction of the campus road for SFS School, Sateek. Fr Thomas Nirappel and Fr Sibi Mattapallil for organizing a one-day convention at St Francis de Sales Parish, Nongalbibra, on July 31, The convention was preached by Fr Kurian Karikkal, Fr Saji Kaippallil and Fr Joseph Puliyilakat. Fr Biju Kanicherry and Fr Albert Sahayaraj for conducting Catechists training on August 6, 2017, at Bahalpur for the village Catechists and for organizing the laying of the foundation stone for the new administrative block of the school by Fr Philip Thomas Kizhakumpurath, Councillor Incharge of Mission and Admonitor, on August 01, Fr Saji Kaippallil and Fr Philip Kurisummoottil for organizing monthly convention and for organizing the laying of the foundation stone for Fr Chacko Varapadavil Memorial Convention Hall at Holy Redeemer Renewal Centre, Tura, on August 12, The foundation stone was blessed and laid by Most Rev. Andrew R. Marak. Fr Joy Kaniyammattel and Fr Nicholas Maiong for the construction of Mermier Boys Hostel's new kitchen and dressing room at SFS School, Sindukpathar. It was blessed by Fr Abraham Puthenpurackal MSFS and inaugurated by Sr Jolly FCC on August 13, Fr Jojan Plathottathil and Fr Varghese Manickathan for furnishing an ATL Lab at SFS School, Pasighat, and for organizing the inauguration of the same on Aug 14, 2017, by MLA Shri. Kaling Moyong in the presence of DDSE & DEO.

7 Fr Mathew Muriyankariyil, teachers and students of Don Bosco Sec. School, Mawkhlam, for winning 3rd prize in district level Dancing Competition on the occasion of Independence Day Celebration Fr Nicholas Bara and Fr Silanand Soreng for organizing a one-day animation programme on Small Christian Community for the catechists and lay leaders of the parish on August 06, 2017 and, Mothers Day celebration at Divine Mercy Parish, Mawryngkneng, on August 20, Fr Genes Shangpliang and Fr Joby Kurikilamkattu for organizing the Annual Youth Retreat from July 28 to 30, 2017 and Annual Mothers Retreat at Mother of Compassion Parish, Mawkhlam, from August 18 to 20, The Mothers Retreat was animated and preached by Fr Johny Eapen SDB and Mr Alfred Snenglem Kurbah. Bro. Alen Legori George ceases to be a member of the Congregation. Fr Varghese Manickathan and Fr Jojan Plathottathil for completing the construction of SFS Church, Pasighat. The New church building was blessed and inaugurated by Most Rev. John Thomas Kattrukudiyil on August 27, 2017, in the presence of Rev. Fr Emmanuel Mappilaparambil, Regional Superior of Dibrugarh Region, Rev. Fr Philip Thomas Kizhakumpurath, Councillor and Admonitor and the faithful. Fr Sudhir Hasda for securing 1st division in his B.Ed Exam from NEHU University. Frs Thomas Nirappel and Sibi Mattapallil for organizing Zonal Youth Convention at SFS Church, Nongalbibra from September 08 to 10, Fr John Barman and voluntary members of Fransalian Youth Ministry, Shillong Unit, for animating a two-day Pastoral Course for the Deacons at Oriens Theological College, Shillong, from September 01 to 02, Meeting of Vice-Promoters for the Cause of our Founder The fourth meeting of the Vice-Promoters for the Promotion of Devotion and Cause of the Founder, Fr Peter Mary Mermier was held on August 23, 2017 at Bishop s House, Aizawl, Mizoram. The following members were present for the same: Fr Mario D Souza, Pune Province, Co-ordinator; Fr Peethuruthel Francis, North- East Province; Fr Issac John, Nagpur Province; Fr Kurian Pattimackel, Dibrugarh Region and Fr Baviri Suresh Babu, Vizag Province. The day s programme began with the Holy Eucharist at 7.30 am, followed by the adoration at 9.00 am. Immediately after the adoration, the members gathered in the conference hall for the first session under the chairmanship of Rev. Fr Mario D Souza, the Coordinator. During the first session the letter of Rev. Fr. Thumma Mariadas Reddy, Assistant General and the Chief Promoter of the Cause, was read out by Fr Issac John. In his letter, Fr Thumma exhorted the Vice-Promoters to recommit themselves for the noble Cause of promoting the devotion to the Founder and to work wholeheartedly to foster the spirit and spirituality of our Founder. His inspirational letter highlighted the following: i) It is a grace and privilege to be the Promoters of the Cause of the Founder; ii) We must take this task as a priority and work for the Cause with gratitude and renewed commitment; iii) With love and devotion, the Promoters must discharge this sacred duty; iv) We cannot be Promoters without being pro for him; v) We, as promoters, must be convinced of the sainthood of our Founder; vi) We must be guarded and guided by his sanctity; vii) Be witnesses of the Founder, his virtues, life, mission and heritage. A short discussion on the letter was initiated thereafter. During the second session, after reading the report of the Assistant General following the General Council Meeting, Fr. Suresh Babu spoke briefly on the objectives and concerns of the De Sales and Mermier (DSM) Resource and Animation Centre at Hyderabad. He also appealed to the Vice-Promoters to contribute their share for the development of the Centre. He then distributed the Brochures and the first Bulletin of the centre to the participants. Then the following agenda were taken up for the discussion and deliberation: 1. Evaluation on the SFS 450 Birth Anniversary 2. Checking on the status, circulation and recitation of English Mermier prayer card; 3. Collecting all the Vernacular Mermier prayer cards; 4. Sending all the Vernacular Mermier prayer cards through the ASG to the General Administration; 5. Checking on the status, circulation and recitation of Mermier prayer in vernaculars; 6. Planning for Founder s Day; 7. Reminding the Provincials about a Day of Fransalian Associates in their respective provinces 8) Monitoring the process and ensuring the implementation of the Proposals of the previous meetings; 9) Attending at the Province

8 Forum meetings: 10) Gathering regular information about what is happening within the province about the promotion of the Founder; 11) Keeping in contact with the provincial councillors; 12) Keeping in touch with the DSM Resource and Animation Centre; 13) Regular contact and animation of Fransalian Associates; 14) Being attentive to receive on any favours received through the holy intercession of the Founder; 15) Coordinating with the Postulator and the Vice-postulator 16) How to rope in the services of SPAT (Salesian program Annecy Team); 17) Collaborating with the Holy Cross Sisters. The next meeting of the cause of the founder team will be held in December 2017 at Harmony, Belgaum. The meeting came to an end with the vote of thanks from Fr Issac John and a concluding prayer by Fr. Suresh Babu (Reported by Fr Francis Peethuruthel). Updates from Southern African Region by Regional Superior New opening in Pretoria South Africa: The Archbishop of Pretoria has invited the MSFS to take up a parish in his Archdiocese. After due consultation and evaluation the Provincial has accepted the offer, and the Region will take up the responsibility of the new parish, Holy Trinity, Midrand, on September 30, Fr Thomas Vanderkunnel is designated to be appointed as the parish priest in the new parish in Pretoria. The community is multiracial middle class and the main parish is about 20 minutes drive from O.T International Airport, Johannesburg. Certainly it s a blessing for the MSFS as this parish centre would also assist the confreres from the Region and other mission units who travel to/via Johannesburg. May I request you to pray for the success of our new mission. Fr Bibin Martin Puthuppaliyil has obtained his Namibian visa last month and he will arrive in Windhoek, Namibia, on September 20, The confreres are happy to welcome another young priest to the Region. On behalf of the Region, I welcome Fr Bibin and wish him a pleasant travel to the African continent. May your work and stay in Southern Africa be enriching both for you and the people you would serve. Fr Bibin will spend the initial months learning Afrikaans and thereafter work at Christ the King Parish, Luderitz, as the assistant priest. On behalf of the Region, I thank Rev Fr. George Panthanmackel and the administration for all the assistance given to Fr Bibin for his visa and travel. Fr Noble Jose Nakathingal arrived in Grassy Park, Cape Town, on September 7, He is designated to be appointed as the assistant priest at Queen of Peace, Grassy Park, Cape Town. We thank Fr Noble for his dedicated service at Luderitz, Namibia. We welcome him to Cape Town and wish him every blessing as he begins to work in a new pastoral and linguistic environment. Change of Venue for Annual Retreat 2018: Thank you for your response to my request regarding the change of venue. Our new venue for 2018 retreat will be the diocesan pastoral centre in Keetmanshoop. Please note the following: Installation of the Regional Superior: Retreat Days: Travel to Windhoek Jubilee Celebrations: Lunch. Jubiliarians: Fr Lukose Perumannikala (Silver Jubilee) Fr Joseph Kunjaparambil (Silver Jubilee) Fr Jose Mamalassery Fr Philip Mangatt (Silver Jubilee) (Ruby Jubilee) Community Excursion 04th June 2018 Departure 05th June th May 2018, 18h30 - OLPH, Church 29th May morning - 02nd June till Lunch 02nd June afternoon. Arrive (19h00) 03rd June Soweto Parish Church, Morning Hl. Mass

9 East Africa Province will hold its Provincial Congress from September 22 to 26, Let us keep the intentions of the new Provincial in our prayers as the Province prepares for this important event. The members of MSAF are special invitees to the Congress and I intend to attend the Congress and meet our scholatics in East Africa during my travel there. Fr Joseph Kunjaparambil has already arrived at Lumen Christi Institute, Arusha, and will return on October 10, He will spend the entire month teaching the scholastics there. We wish him well. Holiday: Fr Philip Mangatt, Baiju Mundackal and Salu Thattaparambil will be on holiday during the month of October. We wish them relaxing holidays. Omutumi: Kindly send news items to Fr Libin Chiraparambil with photos for Omutumi latest by 30th September Forthcoming Provincial Congresses East Africa Province: The East Africa Provincial Congress is scheduled from September 22 to 26, The theme of the 8th Ordinary Provincial Congress: Fransalians in East Africa: Consecrated to Live Joyfully the Mission of Christ, Being Loyal to the Spirituality of St Francis de Sales and the Missionary Spirit of Fr Peter Mermier. Nagpur Province: The Nagpur Provincial Congress is from October 17 to 21, The theme of the Congress: Rooted in the Spirituality of St Francis de Sales for Renewed Zeal in Community and Mission. Pune Province: The 8th Provincial Congress of Pune Province is from October 22 to 26, The theme for the Provincial Congress: Recapturing our MSFS Identity (MSFS-NESS) in and through our Community Living, Mission and Salesian Spirituality. Let us pray for the success of these Provincial Congresses Message from the Joint Meeting of Northeastern Pastoral Conference and Regional Catholic Council We, the participants of the Northeastern Pastoral Conference and Northeastern Regional Catholic Council held at Don Bosco Institute, Kharguli, Guwahati, from September 8 to 10, 2017, with the theme: Lay Ministries in Northeast India, deliberated on various issues, concerns, struggles and challenges faced by the laity in Northeast. We also appreciated and celebrated the achievements, successes and contributions of the vibrant laity in proclaiming Christ to fellow Christians and non-christians. In the light of Vatican Council II vision of the Church, we believe: The Church is the Church of all the baptized, of the people of God. From among the people of God, a few are chosen by God to serve them in order to fulfill the Mission of the Lord to proclaim the kingdom of God to the ends of the earth. Our laity, through their profession and involvement in socio-economic-political-academic affairs, are called to transform the world by furthering the integral development and salvation of all (GS 43). The laity are part of political parties, Government and civil life in a spirit of service to deal with concerns of employment, environment, culture, media, migration, discrimination, marginalization, intolerance, etc The Lord is calling upon all of us to discern our own particular charisms and roles in the one body of Christ in order to build up the kingdom of God. Each of us needs to live our ordinary Christian life as apostles by an exemplary manner giving witness to the splendor, majesty and beauty of our Catholic faith. We exist for the Church because the Church, our beloved mother, has always existed for us. And we reiterate that the family remains the basic unit of society and the first school in which children learn the human, spiritual and moral values which enable them to be a beacon of goodness, integrity and justice in our communities. Hence, we are committed: To promote in our communities a more complete formation of the lay faithful through ongoing catechism, spiritual direction, professional qualification and socio-political training to leadership.

10 To join hands with all peoples, movements and associations working for the defense of human rights and fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution. We are at the service of the poor, the tribals, the backward and marginalized members of society in Northeast India. To foster solidarity with all women, youth and elderly for their empowerment by giving them space, reaching out to the recognition of human connectedness and dignity that transcends all forms of division and separation. To reduce the gap between the Catholic community and its leaders by ensuring the participation of the laity in the decision making process at various levels of the Church administration, by building up more Small Christian Communities and recognizing various lay ministries in the Northeast. To the faith formation of the laity, investment for integral education of the Catholic youth and an attitudinal change on the part of everyone with respect to the role of the lay people in the Church. We remain ever grateful to God and one another for this great opportunity of coming together and listening to each other gently and humbly in a spirit of solidarity with all. We are confident that the Triune God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit will continue to bless us as we journey together. We pray to the Lord through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary that we always remain in communion with the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church and work together for the glory of God fully alive in every human, who is loving and caring for all. Special Communications Fr George Poovathunkal, the Councillor in Charge of Education, keeping in mind the year of education and innovative ministry, is arranging training for MSFS fathers working in the Educational Institutions on September 16 and 17, 2017, at Provincial House, Narengi, Guwahati. The programme will start at 9 AM on September 16 and end at 4 PM on September 17. The printed copies of the Province Statutes 2017 are available with Provincial Secretary. You are most welcome to contact him if you have not yet received the same. Change of contact numbers Babu Kudakkachirakunnel: Metha Avilhou Stephen: , Manickathan Varghese Paul: Let Us Pray For the Departed Fr Tony Lopez (74), belonging to Pune Province, who passed away on September 01, Fr Théodore Vannay (83), belonging to Franco-Swiss Province, who passed away on September 12, Mr Antony Marayikulam (96), father of Fr Stephen Marayikulam (Jr), who passed away on July 25, Mr George Edasserithadathil (55), the elder brother of Fr James Pattarakalayil, who passed away on July 31, Aviezer Shangpliang (5), grandnephew of Fr Genes, who passed away due to kidney failure on August 8, 2017 at 3 pm. Please pray for his soul and the bereaved family members. Mrs Annama Chandi (87), the aunt of Fr Jose Mamalasseril and Fr Emmanuel Mappilaparambil, who passed away on August 19, Mr Francis Kharkhongor (90), grandfather of Fr Wanlambor Kharumnuid, who passed away on September 01, Mr Thomas Thayilkuzhithottu (86), father of Fr George Thayilkuzhithottu, who passed away on September 14, Provincial s Programme September Sept. 12: Canonical Visitation to Somonpara

11 Sept. 13: Canonical Visitation to Tura Retreat Centre Sept. 14: Canonical Visitation to Nongalbibra Sept. 15: Panbari Sept : Educators Training Programme, Guwahati Sept. 24: Provincial Council Meeting Sept. 25: Mission Forum Meeting Sept : Province Annual Retreat II (MSFS Provincial House, Guwahati) Sept. 30: Perpetual Profession, Shillong October Oct. 7-13: Congregational Retreat, Poondi Oct. 5: SFS Seminary, Ettumanoor Oct : GC-PIF-PEA Meeting, Trichy Oct. 21: Novitiate, Chabua Oct : Association of Christian Philosophers of India (ACPI) Meeting at MSFS Provincial House Oct. 29: Provincial Council Meeting Oct. 30: Superiors Forum Meeting (and Diamond Jubilee Mass of Fr Antony Mookenthottam and Fr Thomas Anikala in the evening) Oct. 31: Meeting of Local Bursars November Nov. 1: CRI Encyclopedia Editorial Board Meeting (at am) Nov. 2-16: Europe Nov. 7: Colloquium of Germany-Austria Delegation (GA) Nov. 20: Ranchi Nov : PMP Meeting in Guwahati Nov. 25: Extended Apostolic Community Meeting (EACM) of Upper Assam Nov. 27: EACM of Arunachal Nov. 28: Provincial Council Meeting at Silapathar December Dec. 1-2: Suvidya College Dec. 4: Provincial Chapter of Sisters of Charity, Guwahati Dec. 5: EACM of Guwahati Dec. 6: EACM of Lower Assam Dec. 8: EACM of Nagaland Dec. 9: EACM of Manipur Dec. 12: EACM of Shillong Dec. 14: EACM of Garo Hills Dec. 16: EACM of Tripura Dec. 19: EACM of Mizoram-Manikbond Dec. 21: Provincial Council Meeting Dec. 23: Vaikkom Dec. 24: Ranni Dec. 27: Ordination of Dn Lijo Scaria Thakadiyel Dec. 28: EACM of Thamaraserry Dec. 29: Ordination of Dn Melvin P.K.Parampukattil Dec. 30: Ordination of Dn Libin Varghese Pallattutharayil 2018 January Jan. 2: Umwahlang

12 Jan. 4-31: Editing of Encyclopedia of Religious in India Jan. 16: Bahalpur Jan. 21: Ordination of Dn Antony Baruah Jan. 24: Meeting of Fransalian Associates and Feast of St Francis de Sales February Feb. 1-2: Mission Forum Meeting Feb. 3-4: Education Forum Meeting Feb. 5-6: Formation Forum Meeting Feb. 7-8: Social and Innovative Forum Meeting Feb. 12-Mar.12: Classes at Nagaon Feb : Superior General in Guwahati Feb. 18: Jubilee of MSFS Novitiate, Chabua Feb. 20: Provincial Council Meeting with Superior General Feb. 21: Jubilee of MSFS Study House, Shillong March Mar. 15: Canonical Visitation to Manikbond Mar. 18: Canonical Visitation to Panbari Mar. 19: Canonical Visitation to Bahalpur Mar. 20: Canonical Visitation to Panishali Mar : Provincial Council Meeting (Budget Evaluations) April April 8: Canonical Visitation to Gogamukh April 9: Canonical Visitation to Dhemaji April 10: Canonical Visitation to Silapathar April 11: Canonical Visitation to Telam April 12: Canonical Visitation to Jonai April 13: Canonical Visitation to Pasighat April 14-15: Canonical Visitation to Yinkiong April 16-17: Canonical Visitation to Aalo April 18: Canonical Visitation to Kaying April 19: Canonical Visitation to Tato April 20: Canonical Visitation to Basar April 22: Canonical Visitation to Medziphema April 23: Canonical Visitation to Peren April 24: Canonical Visitation to Tening April 25: Canonical Visitation to Kangpokpi April 26-27: Canonical Visitation to Purul April 28: Canonical Visitation to Imphal April 30: Provincial Council Meeting May May 10: Canonical Visitation to Shillong May 11: Canonical Visitation to Umroi May 12: Canonical Visitation to Amlarem May 13: Canonical Visitation to Mawrynkneng May 14: Canonical Visitation to Mawkhlam May 15: Canonical Visitation to Umwahlang May 20: Provincial Council Meeting May 23-24: Canonical Visitation to Amarpur, Sindukpathar, Harina

13 May 30: Canonical Visitation to Mangkolemba May 31: Novitiate, Chabua June June 2-3: Canonical Visitation to Sateek, Lengpui June 6: Canonical Visitation to Rukminigaon June 7: MSFS Study House, Shillong June 8: Canonical Visitation to Chandrapur June 9: Canonical Visitation to MSFS Provincialate, Guwahati June 13-19: Suvidya College, Bangalore A Concluding Thought Everyone looks for love. Love is all that everyone wants. Their purpose in life is love; to love someone, to be loved, to love their car, to love their dog, to love their garden etc. But all these types of love are perishable and are destined to fade away. The love we really want is from God, the eternal love, the agapeic love. The eternal love is reflected in forgiveness. To forgive and forget is to reflect love. Situations pass, they cease to exist, but they continue to be alive in the mind. Open your heart and be generous, free yourself from that sorrow, forgive and forget and you will live every moment in peace. Why is it hard to forgive others? Usually because I believe that others are 90% to blame for my problem, that I am not as bad as they are. So I start to carry the load of other people s actions. If my ego is too hurt, I will have the sense of correction, of justice: I know I am right, That is not fair. But if I start to forgive from the heart sincerely, I remain humble and this forgiveness will bring me closer to others. Then I do not carry regrets or anger, I remain light. With forgiveness and love, flexibility and cooperation becomes natural. When I come across someone who is not being co-operative I need to become humble and try to understand what the other person is communicating. Thus, with love and forgiveness one will be able to live in a state of appreciation, gratitude and enthusiasm. Beloved, let us love another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love (I Jn 4: 7-8). Fraternally Yours in the Lord, Fr George Panthanmackel MSFS Provincial of Northeast India Province WALKING ON THE PATH OF THE PATRON Accept all that befalls you as coming from the loving hand of divine Providence: if God sends you consolations, accept them with a spirit of gratitude, but if He sends you nothing at all, do not be upset. SFS