TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Sub: 1. Most Rev. Felix Anthony Machado, Bishop of Nashik, appointed Bishop of Vasai.
2. Most Rev. Lourdnada Daniel, Bishop of Amravati, appointed Apostolic Administrator of Nashik.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

1. I am pleased to inform you that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Most Rev. Felix Anthony Machado, Bishop of Nashik, Bishop of Vasai.

The ecclesiastical provision was made public in Rome, on Tuesday, 10 November, 2009, at noon local time, corresponding to 16.30 hours, Indian Time.

Born on 6th June, 1948, at Remedy, Vasai, Most Rev. Felix Anthony Machado after his high school education graduated from University of Bombay in Indian and Western Philosophy. After completing his Philosophical studies at the St. Pius X College, Mumbai, he joined the Taizé Brothers in France where he did his Theological studies and obtained Licentiate in Theology from Lyons, France. He was ordained priest on 30th October, 1976 and after a stint of pastoral ministry at Vasai, he proceeded to U.S.A. for his higher studies. He holds M.A. in Theology from Maryknoll School of Theology, New York and Ph.D. from Fordham University, New York.

After returning from U.S.A., he taught Indian Philosophy, Theology and Introduction to Major Religions for seven years at the St. Pius X College, Goregaon. In 1993 he was called to the Vatican to work as an Official for Asia Desk in the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. In 1999 Pope John Paul II nominated him Under Secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Interreligious Dialogue and was confirmed as Under Secretary by Pope Benedict XVI in 2005.

He was appointed Bishop of Nashik with the personal title of Archbishop on 16th January, 2008 and was ordained Bishop on 8th March, 2008.

We wish Most Rev. Felix Anthony Machado all the very best in his pastoral governance of the Diocese of Vasai and assure him of our prayers and wholehearted collaboration.

2. I am also pleased to inform you that the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples has appointed Most Rev. Lourdnada Daniel, Bishop of Amravati, Apostolic Administrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the Diocese of Nashik.

With kind regards and best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Sub: 1. Most Rev. Jose Mukala, Bishop of Kohima, resigns from the pastoral governance of the Diocese.
2. Most Rev. Dominic Lumon, Archbishop of Imphal, appointed Apostolic Administrator of Kohima.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

I hereby wish to inform you that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Jose Mukala, Bishop of Kohima and has appointed Most Rev. Dominic Lumon, Archbishop of Imphal as the Apostolic Administrator of Kohima.

The ecclesiastical provisions were made public in Rome on Friday, 30th October, 2009, at noon local time, corresponding to 16.30 hours, Indian Standard Time.

Born on 19th August, 1948, at Kavikunnu, Pala, Kerala, Most Rev. Jose Mukala did his Minor Seminary studies at St. Joseph’s, Dibrugarh and at St. Paul’s, Shillong. After his Philosophy and Theology courses at Sacred Heart Poonamalee, Chennai, he was ordained priest on 10th April, 1978. He holds a Licentiate in Liturgy from the Istituto Liturgio di Sant’ Anselmo, Rome.

He served the Diocese in various capacities: as Asst. Parish Priest at St. Paul’s Church, Pallel-Manipur (1978-79); Administrator of Good Shepherd Seminary, Dimapur (1979-81) and Rector of the same institution (1984-89); Director of the Pastoral Center- Dimapur; Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Church, Kohima and Vicar General of Kohima Diocese. He was ordained Bishop on 15th March, 1998.

During the 12 years of his episcopal ministry, he was a dedicated and caring Pastor.

The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI has accepted his resignation from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Kohima.

While we thank the Almighty God for the generous services of Bishop Jose Mukala for the Church in India and the society at large, we wish him God’s countless blessings and fruitful apostolate in the years to come.

With warm personal regards and every good wish,

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Subject: Death of Most Rev. Daniel Acharuparambil, Archbishop of Verapoly.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

With much regret and sadness, I inform you that Most Rev. Daniel Acharuparambil, OCD, Archbishop of Verapoly, passed away on 26th October, 2009, at the Lourdes Mission Hospital. This 70 year old Prelate exercised his episcopal ministry for thirteen years with great dedication and pastoral zeal.

Most Rev. Daniel Acharuparambil was born on 12th May, 1939, at Pallipuram, Kerala. After his high school studies at his native village, he joined the Carmelite Order at Ernakulam in May 1956 and after his Philosophical and Theological studies at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye, he was ordained priest on 14th March 1966.

Besides holding B.A. degree in Economics from St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam and M. A. in Indian Philosophy from Hindu University, Benares, he obtained his Doctorate from St. Thomas Aquinas Pontifical University, Rome. He taught at the Pontifical University Urbaniana (P.U.U.) from 1972 to 1996; at the Pontifical University of Lateran (1973-1983) and at the “Teresianum” (1976), Rome. He held other higher responsibilities while in Rome: Dean of the Faculty of Missiology, P.U.U. (1986-1988); Rector Magnificus of P.U.U. (1988-1994); Consultor of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue (1990-1995); Consultor of the Congregation for Evangelization of Peoples (1991-1996) and Member of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue.

On 5th August, 1996, he was nominated Archbishop of Verapoly and consecrated on 3rd November, 1996. Besides being Metropolitan Archbishop of Verapoly and member of the Standing Committee of CBCI, he was President of K.R.L.C.B.C. (1997 till death); President of K.C.B.C. (1998-2001 and from 2007 till death). From October 2008 till May 2009 he served as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Cochin.

Endowed with a broad outlook and deep inter-religious perspective acquired through his academic pursuits, he had great respect for all religions. His pastoral leadership and commitment were greatly appreciated even among people of other faiths. Within the span of 13 years, his dedicated services for the well-being of both clergy and laity are being gratefully acknowledged.

He had special love and care for the poor, needy and sick people for whose cause and welfare he spared no efforts. For instance, he established the Kristhujayanthi Hospital at Perumpilly, an extension of the Lourdes Hospital for them. A venture in the educational field entitled “Navadarshan” was started by him with the intention of giving a higher education for the poor talented boys and girls. Likewise he was instrumental in making the Little Flower I.T.I. into a sophisticated Institute with the latest technology for the uplift of the youth. In order to cater for the orphans hailing from different parts of Kerala, irrespective of caste and creed, he built a Boys’ Home at Koonamavu. A Nursing College was also instituted to render quality service to the sick. Besides establishing the Albertine Institute, St. Paul’s International School and Center for training the Laity, the Anthonia Bible College and Ashwas Counselling Centre bear witness to his keen interest in the wellbeing of his flock.

Besides renovating 11 Churches, he constructed 33 Churches in his Archdiocese. He also evinced great interest in raising the Church of our Lady of Ransom at Vallarpadam to the status of a National Shrine Basilica.

His personal human touch in his dealings with both the clergy and laity is being deeply appreciated. Ever keen in fostering the on-going formation of his priests, he also built for them a rest house in Thottuva so that they could relax and have their retreats. His missionary spirit was manifested in his initiative of sending seminarians to various mission stations in India during their formation period.

His funeral service which took place on 28th October, at St. Albert’s School grounds was largely attended by several Bishops, hundreds of priests, religious and lay faithful. He was buried at the St. Francis Assisi Cathedral. May God of Mercies grant this zealous Pastor and faithful servant of the Church eternal bliss and heavenly reward!

You are kindly requested to offer one Holy Mass for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Daniel Acharuparambil, late CBCI member.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Subject: Demise of Most Rev. Pudhota C. Balaswamy, Bishop Emeritus of Nellore.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

With deep sorrow and much regret, I inform you that Most Rev. Pudhota C. Balaswamy, Bishop Emeritus of Nellore, passed away on 24th September, 2009. This 81 year old Prelate exercised his episcopal ministry for long 35 years with much dedication and intense pastoral zeal.

Born on 20th October, 1928, at Valarpuram, Chengalpet, Kancheepuram Dt., Tamilnadu, after his priestly studies, he was ordained priest on 24th April, 1955 for the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore. After obtaining Doctorate in Theology in Rome, he served in San-Thome Minor Seminary and subsequently as a Parish Priest at Pinjivakkam, Kilacherry and Vepery, Madras. Elected Bishop of Nellore on 17th December, 1973 he was ordained Bishop of Nellore on 19th March, 1974.

Multi-faceted personality and highly gifted, Bishop Balaswamy spared no efforts to live up to his challenging task as a Pastor of a vast Diocese and within three years of his episcopal ministry, he paved the way for the erection of the Diocese of Cuddapah. Urged by a tremendous zeal for evangelization, he formed several Animation and Evangelization Teams with well trained catechists, headed by two priests, who carried the Gospel message both within his diocese and throughout Andhra Region. These Teams proclaimed the Good News through different media v.gr. songs, street plays, folk dances, skits, etc. causing great spiritual impact on the villagers.

Eloquent preacher of the Word of God, he was a well-known retreat preacher particularly for priests and religious, seminarians and catechists, proclaiming God’s Word during various pastoral gatherings and regional celebrations. Endowed with a melodious voice, he sang praises to the Lord and composed several liturgical hymns mainly based on Biblical texts. Known as the “singing Bishop of Andhra Pradesh”, he brought out all his hymns and songs in the form of audio cassettes and CDs entitled as “Balaswaraalu”.

Immense has been his contribution in the realm of Liturgy. As President of APBC’s Commission for Liturgy, he was the main responsible for the publication of a number of liturgical books, particularly the Lectionary. By the time he retired, he sent the completed copy of the translation of Telugu Missal from the original Latin in which he played a major role, to Rome in 2007 and, after working on proposed corrections as per the instructions of Rome, he sent its improved version back to Rome by April 2009 and was awaiting the final official approval of the Telugu Missal, which would be his final gift to the Church in Andhra Pradesh. Right from the outset of his episcopate, Bishop Balaswamy was promoting with great zeal priestly vocations for his Diocese and today Nellore is vibrant with 149 priests serving both within and outside the Diocese and country, in addition to few hundreds of religious.

A great lover of seminarians, he knew all of them by name and even their families. He used to teach the minor seminarians singing and initiate them into meaningful participation in Liturgy. During their vacations, he accompanied them on pastoral camps thus preparing them for their future evangelizing mission and pastoral ministry. He was their spiritual guide, a true model and inspiration for a saintly living.

An ardent devotee of the Eucharist, he drew from the Most Blessed Sacrament all his strength to spend himself for the service of the poor and sick people. His compassionate heart went out to the physically and mentally challenged children. His magnanimity and charity are visibly seen in a school for the physically handicapped children, a school for the mentally retarded, a school for the children of gypsy parents, two schools for the children of leprosy patients besides several boardings and orphanages for poor boys and girls in the Diocese. Moved to pity and to provide some sense of human dignity to the lepers, he started three rehabilitation villages for them in consultation with the district authorities. Besides, 40 upper primary and elementary schools and 26 high schools were started and there are about 13 dispensaries, health centres and hospitals in the diocese.

Founder of the Diocese of Nellore Social Service Centre (DNSSS), he worked tirelessly for the welfare of the poor and downtrodden by means of various innovative social service activities, v.gr. loans to the Mahila Mandals, self-supporting schemes for the orphans and handicapped children, financial assistance to the aged, help for the land reclamations, assistance to the victims of fire, cyclone and tsunami, etc.

Many new parishes were created and new parish churches and presbyteries were built as well as 146 village chapels in the outstations of the parishes. His great devotion to Mother Mary is mirrored in the many Churches and shrines dedicated to her and particularly through the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Velankanni that he built at Kodur, a great centre of pilgrimage.

His life and pastoral ministry is but a clear illustration of his faithfulness of the God given mission and his episcopal motto “Omnibus Omnia” (All things to all men).

Bishop Pudhota Balaswamy breathed his last on 24th September, 2009, after a brief illness and his funeral service took place at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Nellore, on 26th September, which was largely attended by several Bishops, hundreds of priests, religious and lay faithful. May the God of Mercies grant eternal response and heavenly bliss to this zealous and caring Pastor and loyal servant of the Church!

You are kindly requested to offer one Holy Mass for the repose of the soul of Bishop Pudhota Balaswamy, late CBCI member.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

Greetings from the CBCI Centre, New Delhi!

The 111th Standing Committee of CBCI met on 23-25 September, 2009 at St. John’s, Bangalore. Two sessions in the morning of 23rd were devoted to the General Body of the CBCI Society for Medical Education (St. John’s, Bangalore). The third session in the evening was the General Body of the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC). The Standing Committee is also the General Body of these two Societies.

At the first session on 24th September, after the Prayer and Welcome by His Eminence Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil, the Report of the previous Standing Committee was tabled for approval and thereafter passed. There were some points of action taken and for clarification.

1. The Reorganization of the CBCI was the first major point taken up from the Agenda of the 111th Standing Committee. As most of the proposals were agreed to at the meeting of the Special Committee for the Reorganization, the new draft proposals were approved after some further suggestions. There is a growing consensus that the Bishop Secretary General should permanently reside at the CBCI Centre.

2. The Report of the CBCI Special Commission for Evangelization was accepted with a good spirit of coming together of the three Churches. The Syro-Malabar Church has completed her study of the needs of the Church in India and the other two Churches agreed to complete their individual studies as envisaged under nos. 11 and 12 of the Report.

3. The preparation for the theme ‘YOUTH’ at the next General Body Meeting at Guwahati (arrival 23rd February and departure 04th March, 2010), was reported by the Commission for Youth. Archbishop Leo Cornelio (Chairman) and Fr. Alwyn D’Souza (Executive Secretary) presented the revised Concept Paper on Youth that was unanimously accepted. A total of six sessions on the first and second days of the Plenary Assembly were set aside for this main theme that would be titled: ‘Youth for Peace and Harmony’. Fr. V. M. Thomas, Director of Don Bosco Youth Center, Guwahati, the main venue of the Assembly, explained the arrangements for the accommodation of the Bishop participants in the two neighbouring Centers and the logistics of the Meeting, including the proposal for the Sunday Celebration with Holy Mass in the morning, time for sight-seeing around Guwahati town, and the evening Public Function. The organizers will arrange trips to the N.E. States and Dioceses for the Bishops who so desire according to the number of days they want to spend in the N.E. either before or after the Assembly.

4. St. John’s, Ranchi was next on the Agenda. The Feasibility Study was presented by the Team of Experts who had prepared the study. The concept ‘Lievens Gnana Gram’ was presented and appreciated by the Bishops present. This project has been accepted as one of the Centers of the CBCI and the implementing authority is vested in His Eminence Cardinal Telesphore Toppo, Archbishop of Ranchi, who is ably assisted by Fr. Alex Vadakumthala, former Executive Secretary of the CBCI Commission for Health Care. Regarding the name of the Medical College, the Standing Committee by majority vote decided for the name ‘Lievens Medical College’ instead of ‘St. John’s Medical College’.

The redrafted Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations of the CBCI Society for Medical Education, North India, were approved. Cardinal Telesphore Toppo was authorized to register the same with the concerned authorities in Ranchi.

5. The ‘Gender Policy’ discussed at the April 2009 Standing Committee where suggestions were made, was redrafted and once again presented at this meeting. After some suggestions and corrections, it was approved by the CBCI Standing Committee. It should be noted that except for one, all the Regions have approved their own Gender Policy on similar lines.

6. Archbishop Raphael Cheenath of Cuttack-Bhubaneshwar gave a more positive update of the situation in Kandhamal though the social ostracisation of Christians continues in some pockets. The construction of houses has been undertaken with funds received by the Archdiocese. Caritas and other agencies are also involved in the construction of houses for the victims. Harmony Groups and Peace Building programmes are also in progress and the Coordinating Agencies meet about once a week with government officials.

7. His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias and Archbishop Felix Machado gave a brief reflection on the Inter-Religious Meeting organized on 12th June, 2009, in Mumbai between some Hindu Religious Leaders and a few Catholic Bishops. This meeting was called at the behest of His Eminence Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, who presided at the meeting. The conclusion of the meeting was that such dialogues should continue in the country at different levels.

8. The previous Standing Committee had in principle agreed that an analysis of the socio-political situation in the country should be made. A Study Committee consisting of Bishop Yvon Ambroise (Convenor), Abp. Raphael Cheenath, Abp. Leo Cornelio, Abp. Dominic Jala, Abp. Felix Machado and Abp. Stanislaus Fernandes (Secretary General) was formed. They would co-opt other experts as would be needed.

9. Cardinal Oswald Gracias informed the Standing Committee that the preparations for the Indian Mission Congress were reaching the final stage. One major concern continued to be the financing of the event as a good one-third of the dioceses had not yet sent their contributions. The total amount received from the two-third dioceses is Rs. 49 lakhs out of the budgeted Rs. 85 lakhs.

10. Bishop Thomas Dabre explained the Guidelines the CBCI Commission for Doctrine and Faith had prepared in connection with ‘Decriminalization of Homosexuality with reference to Section 377 of the I.P.C. He also indicated that the Prefect and some Officials of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith would visit India and meet with some Bishops and Theologians on 16-22 January, 2011. He would send detailed information about their programme.

11. There was a brief discussion and clarification on the CBCI-Coalition for Aids and Related Diseases. Abp. Stanislaus Fernandes expressed his concern about two points: one concerning Projects and certain financial implications for CBCI; and the second, the relationship of this Coalition with CBCI. Abp. Bernard Moras explained that there could be some understanding regarding financial implications. And regarding the relationship, CBCI-CARD was an independent Body though the Chairman of the CBCI Health Commission was its President and many of the members of the Coalition were part of CBCI Institutions and Commissions. However, CBCI-CARD could present a report to the Standing Committee.

12. Some new appointments were made while some former appointments were confirmed and extensions given:
(i) Fr. Lawrence D’Souza, Director of St. John’s was to complete his one year of probation in September 2009. His appointment was confirmed for five years.

(ii) Fr. Dominic Veliath, Executive Secretary of Doctrinal Commission completed his full term of six years in September 2009. His term was extended by three more years.

(iii) Rev. Msgr. Merugumala Chinnappa of Vijayawada diocese was appointed Spiritual Advisor for the National Council of India, Society of St. Vincent De Paul.

13. The Bishop-Representatives for Indo-Global Social Service Society would be: Bishop Gerald Almeida of Jabalpur taken as Member on the Board of Governors; Abp. Dominic Jala was nominated as Member of the General Body of the Society.

14. The CBCI Members of the CBCI-CRI Joint Committee were reviewed. Besides the Ex Officio members, namely, His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias (Vice-President-I – ex-officio Chairman), His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis (Vice-President-II), Abp. Stanislaus Fernandes (Secretary General) and Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira, Deputy Secretary General, the following Bishop Members were elected for a new term: Abp. Albert D’Souza, Abp. Antony Anandarayar, Abp. Thomas Mar Koorilos, Abp. Vincent Concessao, Abp. Filipe Neri Ferrao and Bp. George Alencherry.

15. Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara gave some concrete information about the Jesus Youth, of which he is the Ecclesiastical Adviser. He was glad to communicate that some members of Jesus Youth were aspiring to become Priests.

16. Bishop Frederick D’Souza had written about the Apostolic Union of Clergy. He wished that Bishops encourage their Priests to join this Union in this Year of the Priests for their spiritual and ministerial upliftment. In this context it was pointed out that several renewal programmes were being planned for the benefit of Priests by the three Churches.

17. Bishop Thomas Macwan had expressed his concern for the destruction of human life through abortion, mercy killing, euthanasia. The Standing Committee agreed that this concern should be taken up by the Family Commissions of the three Churches.

18. The Bishops of Tamilnadu Region pleaded for the plight of the Tamils in Sri Lanka. The Standing Committee agreed that they take the lead and that the CBCI Center would support their initiatives as would be required.

19. The pending budget of NISCORT for the year 2009-2010 was presented and unanimously approved and passed.

20. The Audited Accounts of Catholic Council of India and CBCI Central Pool of Funds for the year 2008-2009 were approved and passed.

21. The Lenten Campaign collection is divided between the Dioceses and Caritas. 5% of the amount for Caritas is contributed to the SC/ST/BC cause. Since ST is now a separate Committee, the SC Commission has requested that the 5% be increased. After some discussion it was agreed that the amount be raised to 8% to be shared between the SC and ST.

22. It was pointed out that ‘Prison Ministry’ is a Desk approved by CBCI. It would continue to have its national office in its new premises on Sarjapur Road, Bangalore.

23. The topic of registration for Workers India Federation (WIF) was presented by Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios, Chairman of CBCI Commission for Labour. Permission to form a national federation of all CBCI affiliated Labour Movements as well as for obtaining registration for WIF under the Societies Act of India was granted by the Standing Committee.

24. The next Standing Committee will meet at St. John’s, Bangalore on April 28 (Caritas) and April 29-30, 2010 (Standing Committee and CBCI-CRI). Please also note that the Standing Committee will have a short meeting on the eve of the Plenary Assembly at Guwahati, viz. on 23rd February, 2010 from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m.

With kind regards and good wishes,

Yours sincerely,

+ Stanislaus Fernandes, SJ
Archbishop of Gandhinagar & Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Sub: Most Rev. Gratian Mundadan, Bishop of Bijnor, retires.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

I am pleased to inform you that the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Gratian Mundadan, CMI, as Bishop of Bijnor of the Syro-Malabar Church. This 76 year old prelate served the Diocese of Bijnor with much dedication and great pastoral zeal and exercised his Episcopal ministry for long 32 years till his retirement on 14th August, 2009.

His Excellency Mar Gratian Mundadan belonging to the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (C.M.I.) was born on 15th May, 1933 at Puthenpally in the district of Ernakulam, Kerala. He made his first religious profession in CMI Congregation in 1958 and after completing his priestly studies at Dharmaram College, Bangalore, he was ordained priest on 17th May, 1964. He holds a double academic degree of M.A. and M.Sc. from Madras University.

He was for a long time Director of Kerala Catholic Students’ League (1968-72). During this period he proved his spiritual leadership among the youth many of whom were greatly influenced by his serious commitment, loving care and magnanimous personality. He was outstanding in the field of education.

While he was teaching at the Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Ernakulam, he was nominated first Apostolic Exarch of Bijnor, which was bifurcated from the Diocese of Meerut, and took charge on 25th July, 1972. Five years later, His Holiness Pope Paul VI appointed him Bishop of Bijnor on 26th February, 1977 and he was ordained Bishop on 6th November, 1977. He took charge of the Diocese on 8th December, 1977 as its first Bishop.

Being entirely in a new situation, despite insufficient resources and personnel, he took courage and began building up the mission, ever faithful to his Episcopal motto: “Share and Bear: share God’s gifts, Bear the Burden of the Brethren”.

Bishop Gratian was a great visionary and zealous missionary who could realize the dream of a full-fledged diocese. Along with CMI Fathers, nine Congregations of Women religious are presently working in the diocese of Bijnor. Besides establishing several diocesan Commissions, he set up many educational institutions (both primary and high schools) in addition to a technical school. In the field of health care, there are in the diocese many dispensaries and four hospitals while in the realm of social welfare, some hostels for boys and for girls and Centres for the disabled were built.

At the national level, Bishop Gratian was elected thrice Vice-President-I of CBCI for two years’ term (1989-1992; 1992-1994; 2006-2008). He was also nominated Bishop Representative on the General Body of IGSSS for three years (2002-2005) and re-nominated for another term (2005-2008) and since 2008 he served as Bishop Representative on the Board of Governors of IGSSS.

On 15th July, 2006, Bishop Gratian Mundadan was appointed by the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI Apostolic Visitator for the Syro-Malabar faithful in India extra territorium proprium.

While we feel truly proud of Bishop Gratian Mundadan’s caring and able pastoral leadership and thank the Almighty God for his generous services for the Church in India and the society at large, we wish him God’s countless blessings and many more years of fruitful apostolate as a retired Bishop.

With warm personal regards and every good wish,

Yours sincerely,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

Cordial Greetings from the CBCI Secretariat, New Delhi!

I am pleased to inform you that the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples has appointed Most Rev. Prakash Mallavarapu, Bishop of Vijayawada, Apostolic Administrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the Diocese of Eluru.

With kind regards and best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Subject: Demise of Most Rev. John Mulagada, Bishop of Eluru.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

With much deep regret and sorrow, I inform you that Most Rev. John Mulagada, Bishop of Eluru, passed away on 16th August, 2009. This 72 year old prelate has exercised his episcopal ministry for long 32 years with much dedication and intense pastoral zeal.

Most Rev. John Mulagada was born on 12th December, 1937 at Marriveedu in the Diocese of Visakhapatnam. After his elementary education in his native place and high school studies at St. Anthony’s High School, Visakhapatnam, he began his priestly formation at St. Peter’s Minor Seminary, Cuddapah and continued at St. John’s Seminary, Nellore, which was moved to Hyderabad during the last few months of his theological studies.

After his priestly ordination on 4th January, 1965, he served in many parishes in Srikakulam district for brief stints before being appointed Parish Priest of Paikaraopeta in 1971 where he ministered for six years. Nominated Bishop of the newly erected Diocese of Eluru on 9th December, 1976, he was ordained Bishop on 5th May, 1977 and took charge as the First Bishop of the diocese of Eluru on 8th May, 1977.

Ever faithful to his episcopal motto “Illuminare Omnes” (To enlighten all) Bishop John constantly sought the will of God through prayer and strove hard to take care of his flock. The paternal tireless labour in the pastoral field, lasting over three decades, yielded a rich harvest. The strength of the faithful multiplied from about 76,000 to 2,85,000 and the number of diocesan clergy grew from 26 to over 100. Bishop John, a passionate and compassionate leader, entrusted many parishes and areas to the religious for their integral development. Presently, there are more than 20 men religious congregations and 40 women religious congregations engaged in the apostolate in the diocese. Similarly, at time of his taking over, there were only 12 religious priests, of whom 10 were PIME, while now there are almost 80 religious priests ministering in the diocese. The number of women religious also rose from 140 to over 540.

The fruits of the careful tending of the vineyard by Bishop John are the 100 parishes of which 10 are pilgrimage centers with shrines frequented by people of all religions. In the field of education and health care, thanks to the pastoral solicitude of Bishop John, people in the area are served by over 10 colleges, 200 schools, 70 orphanages, and about 40 hospitals and homes for the disabled.

Hailed as “People’s Bishop”, he showed much interest and took great pains to liberate the marginalized from their bondage. Through the Andhra Pradesh Social Service Society (APSSS) of which he was Chairman for over two decades, he promoted social awareness and literacy. Lakhs of poor people, especially the women, were challenged to organize themselves into self-help groups, take up saving schemes and self-employment projects. They were given training to be their own leaders which resulted in many of them getting elected as Sarpanches and people’s representatives of local civil bodies. Massive house construction projects were taken up by the Eluru Diocesan Social Service Center, which was founded by the kindhearted and great visionary Bishop John, as the coastal area of the diocese is prone to natural calamities like cyclone and storm.

This affectionate Bishop, father of millions in the Diocese of Eluru and in Andhra Pradesh is mourned not only by the faithful of his diocese but also by the people of all Christian denominations and religious affiliations. His venerable and cherished memory will be a constant source of strength and encouragement to carry forward his vision and works for the spread of the Kingdom of God.

Bishop John Mulagada breathed his last on 16th August, 2009 and his mortal remains were buried in the Cathedral of Eluru, which was built by him, on Tuesday, 18th August, 2009. His funeral service was largely attended by several Bishops, hundreds of priests, religious and lay faithful. May the God of compassion and love grant this committed pastor and faithful servant of the Church eternal bliss and heavenly reward!

You are kindly requested to offer one Holy Mass for the repose of the soul of Bishop John Mulagada, late CBCI member.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Sub: Rev. Fr. John Vadakel, CMI, appointed Eparchial Bishop of Bijnor

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

I am greatly pleased to inform you that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Rev. Fr. John Vadakel, CMI, Protosincello of the Eparchy of Bijnor of the Syro-Malabar Church, Eparchial Bishop of the same diocese.

This ecclesiastical provision was made public in Rome on Friday, 14th August, 2009, at noon local time, corresponding to 16:30 hours, Indian Standard Time.

Most Rev. John Vadakel, CMI, was born on 17th August, 1943, at Beslehem parish in the Diocese of Kothamangalam, Kerala. After his primary education in the Government School, Beslehem and high school at the Infant Jesus High School, Vazhakulam, he began his religious studies in the Carmel Monastery, Vazhakulam as an aspirant. After his novitiate at Christ the King Monastery, Karukutty, he made his first religious profession in the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) on 16th May, 1964. After his Philosophical and Theological studies in Dharmaram College, Bangalore, he was ordained priest on 19th December, 1975.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics from Kerala University, and he did his Post Graduate studies in Sociology from H N B Garhwal University - Srinagar, Uttarakhand.

After his priestly ordination he came to Bijnor in January 1976 and began his missionary life at Rajpur- Nawada Mission Station. He then was sent to Pauri and later on to Joshimath, in which places he started mission stations. Back to Pauri, he established a Christian community as well as built a convent and a school and set up a Sisu Bhavan at Buvakhal.

Subsequently, he was transferred to Bijnor as the priest-in-charge, where he constructed Tera Prem Church and a leprosy asylum. After serving the Diocese of Bijnor for 13 years, he was sent in November 1988 to Ghaziabad to serve Sanjo CMI Bhavan. There he also put up a building for St Joseph’s Academy and helped SABS Sisters to construct their school building at Mariam Nagar, and the Charity Sisters (CSC) to build the school for the handicapped and their hostel.

Thereafter, he was sent to Dharsana Institute of Philosophy, Wardha as its administrator. From Wardha he went back to Dharmaram College, where he pursued his M.Th. and successfully completed his Master’s Degree in Spirituality and Counseling. He then was appointed Master of Students of Philosophy in Dharmaram College, Bangalore, where he also constructed the Chavara Bhavan (the staff quarters).

While continuing as the staff member of Dharmaram College, he was elected Vicar Provincial of St John’s Province, Bijnor, in 1996. He also rendered his service as the Rector of St. Joseph’s Study House, Najibabad, Bijnor and constructed the provincial house (first floor) and the Church at Jalalabad, Najibabad. As Vicar Provincial he also built a nursery school at Ghaziabad. During this period he visited Ghana, America and Europe. While discharging the responsibilities of Vicar Provincial, Bishop Gratian Mundadan asked him to supervise the construction of UJALA, the Diocesan Pastoral Centre at Nimbuchaur, Kotdwar.

After serving the CMI Congregation in various capacities he returned to the Diocese of Bijnor and took up the charge of St. Mary’s Church, Najibabad, in June 1999. His tenure at Najibabad saw the emergence of the primary school building and the hospital there. He was also asked to look after the construction work of St Joseph’s Cathedral, Kotdwar. During his stay at Najibabad he helped the Franciscan Clarist Sisters of Noida Province to build their formation house and the school at Baria.

After serving six years at Najibabad, he was appointed Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Nimbuchaur, Kotdwar in June, 2005 and in March 2007 he was appointed Vicar General (Protosincello) of the Diocese of Bijnor, which post he held till his appointment as the Eparchial Bishop of Bijnor.

We wish Most Rev. John Vadakel hearty congratulations, renewed vigour and all the very best in his episcopal ministry and assure him of our prayers and wholehearted collaboration with regard to his Eparchy.

With warm personal regards and every good wish,

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Dear Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Administrators,

Greetings from the CBCI Centre, New Delhi!

At the request of His Eminence Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil, Major Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly and President of CBCI, I send this letter to pray for Peace and Harmony among all communities in our country. On 23rd July, 2009, Archbishop Raphael Cheenath and Leaders of the Christian and Secular Forums issued a Press Release that was sent to you. In accordance with his proposal, on Sunday 23rd August special prayers at Holy Mass, Holy Hours and Adoration may be organized in our Churches and Chapels for Peace and Harmony and for a Spirit of Reconciliation. The Press Release from Bhubaneshwar ended with the words: “Let us forgive and forget the past and build a strong and integrated civil society which is not ravaged by the evil designs...”

The Clergy, Religious and Faithful may also be encouraged to fast or abstain from a meal, and the amounts collected sent to the yet struggling victims who had to flee their homes which have yet to be rebuilt.

IGSSS has initiated a campaign to collect signatures to attach to a Memorandum that will be presented to the President of our country. Your collaboration will surely enhance the value of the Memorandum.

United in prayer and with best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

+ Stanislaus Fernandes
Secretary General, CBCI

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE HIERARCHY

Sub: 1. Rev. Fr. Arockia Sebastian Durairaj Alangaram, SVD, appointed Bishop of Khandwa.
2. Rev. Fr. Dev Prasad John Ganawa, SVD, appointed Bishop of Jhabua.

Your Eminence/Grace/Excellency,

I am pleased to inform you that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Rev. Fr. Arockia Sebastian Durairaj Alangaram, SVD, Bishop of Khandwa and Rev. Fr. Dev Prasad John Ganawa, SVD, Bishop of Jhabua.

The ecclesiastical provisions were made public in Rome on Monday, 11th May, 2009, at noon local time, corresponding to 15.30 hours Indian time.

1. Most Rev. Arockia Sebastian Durairaj Alangaram, SVD, was born on 3rd May, 1957, at Thirunagar, Madurai, Tamilnadu. After doing his elementary school in his hometown and at Madurai, he entered St. Charles Seminary in Tiruchirapalli for the Society of the Divine Word in 1971, where he also attended the Pre-University Course. After completing the Juniorate program at Palda and the Novitiate at Khurda in 1978, in the Diocese of Indore, he made his perpetual profession at Pune on 12th June, 1984 and was ordained priest on 8th May, 1985 at Thirunagar.

He has a Postgraduate Degree in Counseling from Loyola University in Chicago and Doctorate in Counselor Education from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh (USA).

As a priest he served in various capacities: at Meghnagar and as Co-Pastor at Jhabua (1985-1987); as Procurator at the SVD Vidhya Bhavan, Bhopal (1987-1988); as Prefect at the Juniorate, Palda (1988-1993); as Spiritual Director at Khrist Premalaya Regional Philosophate, Bhopal (1995-1996); as Rector at the SVD Vidya Bhavan, Bhopal (1996-1999); as Assistant Director of Snehalaya, Center for Spirituality in Indore (2003-2004) and as Rector at the SVD Vidya Bhavan Philosophate, Bhopal (2004-2005).

In 2005, Fr. Durairaj was elected Provincial Superior of SVD Central Indian Province and was re-elected in 2008, which post he held till his appointment as Bishop of Khandwa.

2. Most Rev. Dev Prasad John Ganawa, SVD, was born on 8th December, 1951 at Panchkui, Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh. After his primary education at St. Theresa’s School, Panchkui and high school at Rajeswar Vidyalay, Mhow, he joined St. Thomas Minor Seminary, Mhow. He did his Philosophical and Theological studies at JDV, Pune and was ordained priest on 27th October, 1982. After his Graduation studies at the Degree College, Sendhwa, he did his Post-Graduation at the Ahilya University, Indore.

As a priest he served in many capacities: Assistant Parish Priest of the Cathedral Church, Khandwa (1982-1985); Asst. Parish Priest of the Catholic Church, Khargone (1985-1987); Rector of St. Thomas Minor Seminary, Mhow (1987-1992); Rector of Catholic Ashram, Palda (1992-1996); Parish Priest of St. Michael’s Church, Ranapur (1996-2002); Director of Maitri Sadan (Center for Dialogue and Communication) Udaipur (2002-2008) and Parish Priest of St. Arnold’s Parish, Meghnagar, which post he occupied till his appointment as Bishop of Jhabua. His Episcopal ordination will be held on 16th June, 2009, at St. Arnold’s School Ground, Meghnagar.

We wish Most Rev. Arockia Sebastian Durairaj Alangaram and Most Rev. Dev Prasad John Ganawa hearty congratulations, renewed vigour and all the very best in their episcopal ministries and assure them of our prayers and wholehearted collaboration with regard to their Dioceses.

With warm personal regards and every good wish,

Yours sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Thomas d’Aquino Sequeira
Dy. Secretary General, CBCI