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Cir.2/2010 1st February 2010 Jesus Christ is the great High Priest of God; Christ is therefore the source of all true priesthood authority and power on this earth (Heb. 5:10)
Dear Fathers, Brothers & Sisters, Greetings from Nagpur! During the past month we have had many beautiful experiences. The biennial and 10th Meeting of the Catholic Council of India held at Nagpur from 8th-12th January, was an experience of God’s special blessings. All the participants were very happy about the organization, participation and the outcome of the meeting. The public reception accorded to them was great. Some of our Institutions did marvellous performance on the stage. The presence of Shri. Nitin Gadkari the new President of BJP and his speech were very relevant and much appreciated. All responsible for this important national event worked as a Team. Thanks to one and all. The feast of St. Francis de Sales the Patron of the Archdiocese and of SFS Cathedral parish, was celebrated with great enthusiasm. Quite a good number of Priests were present for the Solemn Mass on the 24th evening, followed by beautiful cultural program. The staging of the life of St. Francis de Sales was well done. The common meal that followed for all was well appreciated. Thanks to Fr. Jerome Pinto and his Assistants. Our Laity rose to the occasion both of CCI Meeting and SFS Parish Feast.
The week-long celebration of 140 years of SFS High School was well planned and meticulously executed. A beautiful designed tableau on the stage was an eye opener to many, of the humble beginning, the struggles and the strength of this Institution. The Audience gave standing applause to the pioneers of the School. Hearty Congratulations to Sr. Arpitha the principal and her dedicated staff and students.
The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (Lourd Matha) will be celebrated solemnly on Sunday 14th February. She is the Patroness of our Archdiocese. The Lourdes Mata Mandir Feast is a landmark in the celebrations of the Archdiocese drawing large number of pilgrims from all over. Please encourage your people to come to Grotto in the true sense of pilgrimage and seek the blessings from Mother Mary.
The Biennial meeting of Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI ) will be in Guwahati from 23rd February to 3rd March 2010. The theme of the Meeting is Youth in the Church & Society. It is a very relevant subject these days. Please pray for the Bishops your pastors and the success of the meeting.
The Lenten season begins in the middle of February (17th) The Theme proposed by the Holy Father in his message is: “The Righteousness of God has been manifested through Faith in Christ.” Please prepare our people to begin this fruitful season, and teach them the importance of lent. Holy Childhood Day this year falls on 21st February. Please instruct the faithful, the importance of this day, and help the underprivileged children with prayers and finance. Use the materials provided for the purpose.
The enhanced allowance, Mass Stipend, and Holiday allowance etc. will be effective from 1st April 2010, the new financial year. Thank you for your understanding.
I regret the postponement of Celebration of the Year of the Priests, which will be held now on 25th - 26th March 2010.
Some of my assignments for February
Requesting your prayers for me, assuring mine for you, Yours fraternally,
+Abraham Viruthakulangara Archbishop of Nagpur |