To inspire and invigorate youth ministry, St. Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu organised an enriching session on the YOUCAT (Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church) on July 11th at 6:45 PM.

The session featured two distinguished speakers: Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado and Br. Derick Mascarenhas. Rev. Fr. Vijay Machado, the Director of the Catechetical and Liturgy Commission at the Mangala Jyothi Centre and the Executive Secretary for the CCBI Catechetical Commission, Goa, provided a comprehensive overview of the background, reasons, and contemporary relevance of the YOUCAT. His insights shed light on the foundational principles and the enduring importance of the YOUCAT in today's world.

Br. Derick Mascarenhas, a second-year philosophy student, shared his practical experiences and methodologies for engaging with youth through the YOUCAT. He elaborated on the scope and impact of the YOUCAT, offering valuable perspectives on its application in youth ministry.

The session commenced with an introduction and welcome by Bro. Flexon Lobo, who warmly greeted the guests. The program was adeptly compered by Bro. Kevin Varghese, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees.

This session was a significant step towards building enthusiasm and commitment among the youth, empowering them with the knowledge and tools provided by the YOUCAT.

The Universal Church celebrates the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle on July 3rd, and this year, the Mar Thoma Malayalam Samajam Academy at the seminary commemorated the day with great enthusiasm.

Fr. Anthony Olattupuram from the Diocese of Kottapuram was the guest priest for the celebration, leading a well-organized Mass with the assistance of Fr. Milton, the mentor of the Malayalam Academy, alongside Fr. Alex and Fr. Manoj. Rector Fr. Ronald Serrao also joined in the celebration.

In his homily, Fr. Anthony Olattupuram urged the seminarians to seek the truth as St. Thomas did in Jesus Christ. He highlighted St. Thomas's missionary journey to the coastal plains of India and his significant contributions to spreading the Gospel, serving as an inspiration for seminarians in their contemporary ministry.

Following the Mass, the Mar Thoma Samajam Academy, under the guidance of Fr. Manoj, released a book featuring a collection of sermons. The day continued with an exciting volleyball match at 8:30 a.m. between the philosophers and theologians, with the philosophers emerging victorious.

St. Joseph Seminary celebrated the launch of its new theology course for laypeople with a inauguration programme held in Sacred Heart hall. The event began with a prayerful invocation by Br. Rajath Lobo. Rev. Fr. Alex Kalarikkal welcomed the esteemed guests and participants emphasizing that theology is not merely intellectual knowledge of God but a commitment to excellence and a testament to the transformative power of Jesus’ love. The program was inaugurated with a ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolizing enlightenment and unity. Representatives from the religious sisters, laity men, and women joined the dignitaries on the dais for this symbolic act.

Fr. Antony Pinto addressed the gathering, highlighting that this year's batch is the 17th for the Theology of the Laity. He proudly announced the launch of the first batch of the course in the Konkani language, catering to Konkani-speaking students. Fr. Pinto provided detailed instructions about the course structure, fees, and attendance requirements, urging participants to invite more individuals to join in the coming days.

Fr. Ronald Serrao spoke about the Seminary's evolution since Vatican II, from exclusively training priesthood candidates to welcoming the laity for theological studies. He detailed the Seminary's academic structure, including the St. Joseph Institute of Theology and St. Joseph's Institute of Philosophy. Fr. Serrao shared the history of the Theology for the Laity program, which began in 2002, and its mission to strengthen the faith of participants, enabling them to share and follow Christ's teachings more effectively.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Br. Ajay with Br. Avil serving as the program's master of ceremonies.

On June 29th, the seminary community joyfully celebrated the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, a significant day marked by reverence and unity. This feast also honors the Patron's Day of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the chairman of the board of administration of the seminary and the esteemed Bishop of the Mangalore Diocese.

The day began with a solemn Mass led by Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D'Souza. Fr. Rajesh Rosario, who preached the homily inspired the congregation by urging everyone to emulate the heroic zeal of Saints Peter and Paul in their dedication to the mission of Christ.

During the prayers, the community expressed deep gratitude for the enduring legacy of these great saints within the Universal Church. Special prayers were also offered for our Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Administration. The congregation prayed for God's continued grace and strength for him to carry forward the mission of Christ with fervor and commitment.

Following the spiritual celebrations, the seminary grounds buzzed with excitement at 8:30 AM as the philosophers and theologians faced off in a friendly football match. The thrilling game showcased the camaraderie and sportsmanship of both teams, with the theologians emerging victorious.

The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul was a memorable day of worship, community bonding, and spirited competition, reflecting the seminary's dedication to faith, learning, and fellowship.

St Joseph’s Seminary in Jeppu, Mangalore, proudly inaugurated the Philosophical English Academy on June 26, 2024. The event commenced with a prayer, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the chief guest, Fr Jason SDB, the Director of the Academy, Fr Ivan, and the Secretary of the Academy, Aashton D’Souza, along with group leaders.

Aashton D’Souza warmly welcomed the attendees. To mark the academy’s inception, the chief guest digitally unveiled the academy’s logo, followed by a short video presentation introducing various themes and group members.

The topics for study are:

• Group Chaitanya: Understanding Gender Identity from Social, Psychological, and Religious Dimensions
• Group Vikrama: Evolution of Indian Agriculture: A Journey of Innovation and Growth
• Group Tejas: A Probe into Judicial Efficiency of Indian Courts
• Group Airavata: A Critical Study of the National Education Policy (NEP)
• Group Sahasrara: An Analysis of the Healthcare Sector

Br. Aashton introduced the chief guest, who then provided a summary of the topics. The resource person concluded his speech with an anagram of “SOUND,” which stands for:

• S: Socially Active
• O: Observing
• U: Unconditionally Loving
• N: Nature Inclined
• D: Dynamic Thinker

Br Ajay compered the program and proposed the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the reading of the Preamble of the Constitution.