Mangalore, 14 November 2024: St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary marked a historic milestone by hosting its first-ever Alumni Meet for priests ordained between 2013 and 2024. The two-day gathering, held on 13th and 14th November, provided a platform for camaraderie, reflection, and collaboration among alumni.

Very Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao, the Rector of the Seminary, presided over the event, which brought together priests from across dioceses to celebrate their shared formation experiences. The meet was expertly coordinated by Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto, Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, and their dedicated team.

The event commenced on 13th November with an arrival tea at 4:00 PM, followed by Vespers and a warm welcome address by Rev. Dr Serrao. The highlight of the first day was a sharing session on “Challenges in Priestly Ministry” facilitated by Rev. Dr Joseph Martis, fostering an open discussion on the realities of pastoral life.

The second day, 14th November, began with a Holy Mass and breakfast, followed by enriching sessions on pivotal themes. Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira facilitated a thought-provoking discussion on “Challenges in Faith Formation and Secular Education in the Priestly Ministry.” This was succeeded by an insightful interaction with seminarians on “The Impact of Seminary Formation,” led by Rev. Dr Serrao, and a dialogue between alumni and teachers moderated by Rev. Dr Joy Painadath. In the afternoon, a session was organised on the theme “Social Media and Priestly Ministry” facilitated by Rev. Fr Anil Fernandes, who highlighted the significance of using digital platforms responsibly in pastoral outreach. The day concluded with a group visit titled “Mangalore Darshan,” allowing attendees to reconnect with the local heritage and culture.

The event fostered a spirit of unity and renewed purpose among participants. Speaking on the occasion, Very Rev. Dr Serrao emphasized the importance of such gatherings in nurturing bonds within the priestly fraternity and addressing contemporary challenges in ministry.

The meet concluded on 15th November with Holy Mass and a shared breakfast, leaving participants inspired and grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with their alma mater and fellow priests. This inaugural Alumni Meet exemplifies St Joseph’s Seminary’s commitment to its mission of holistic priestly formation, extending its influence well beyond the seminary walls.

On October 31st, St Joseph’s Seminary held its annual Mission Auction, a time-honored tradition cherished by the community for many years. Rooted in the Church’s core mission, this event echoes the Church's call to reach out in service and compassion, inspired by Pope Francis’ 2024 message for World Mission Sunday: “Go and invite everyone to the banquet.” Pope Francis emphasizes the Church’s mission as an open invitation to all, highlighting inclusivity, care, and a commitment to serve those in need through ministries like healthcare and social outreach.

In this spirit, the Mission Auction is held annually at the Seminary to inspire seminarians with the importance of mission work. The brothers contributed a variety of items for auction, and the entire seminary community participated with great enthusiasm. The event also featured an array of delicious treats, including kebabs, juices, and other refreshments, fostering a festive and family-like atmosphere.

The day was not only a joyful gathering but also an opportunity to support the Church's mission, instill a deeper commitment to service in young seminarians, and celebrate the unity within the seminary community.

On October 24th, the Golden Jubilee of Rev. Fr Andrew Lewis, marking 50 years of dedicated priesthood was celebrated in the seminary. Fr Lewis, originally from Kinnigoli Parish, was ordained on October 24, 1974, and has since served across the Mangalore and Udupi dioceses, as well as in Toronto, Canada.

The jubilee celebration was honoured by the presence of Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, and Emeritus Bishop Aloysius Paul D'Souza, who together with the seminary community and Fr Lewis’ family, priests, and religious gathered for the solemn Eucharistic celebration.

As we commemorate this significant milestone, we give thanks for Fr Lewis’ lifetime of ministry and rejoice in God’s enduring faithfulness. We pray for continued blessings upon him in the years ahead as he continues his journey in service to the Church and its people.

The 47^th Annual Research Conference on “Hope: Philosophizing from Multi Horizons” jointly organised by the Association of Christian Philosophers of India (ACPI) and Mangalore University’s Chair in Christianity was officially inaugurated on October 19, 2024, at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore.

The event commenced with a Bharatanatyam dance and the recitation of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Honourable Vice-Chancellor of Mangalore University, Prof. P.L. Dharma, officially inaugurated the conference and Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, presided over the event. Very Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao, Rector of St Joseph’s Seminary and Rev. Dr John Peter Vallabhadoss, President ACPI were present as dignitaries.

Dr Parinitha, Head of the Department of English, Mangalore University delivered the keynote address.

The edition of ACPI Annual Series, “Engulfing Presence of Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities” was released by Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, who handed the first copy to Prof. P.L. Dharma. Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha highlighted the importance of hope as a central theme in human existence. Drawing from Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, he addressed the philosophical challenges of despair, suicide, and moral degradation, asserting that hope is the key to survival and resilience.

In her keynote address, Dr Parinitha emphasized that hope is born at the intersection of dissent and discomfort with the material conditions of our existence. She argued that hope arises from recognizing the potential for change in these conditions and the historical possibilities that allow for such transformation. The annual conference, which took place from October 19-21, has brought together over 100  scholars and thinkers in the field of philosophy. 

On October 17th, the seminary hosted a thought-provoking Mission Symposium on the theme "Challenges and Opportunities in the Healing Ministry of the Church in India." The session was moderated by Fr Ajith Menezes, Administrator of Fr Muller Hospital, and featured Fr Santhosh Dias, National Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Health, Bangalore, as the keynote speaker.

The symposium highlighted the vital role of the Church’s healing ministry in India, resonating with Pope Francis' message for World Mission Sunday 2024: "Go and invite everyone to the banquet." This message calls the Church to embrace its missionary duty with renewed vigor, extending God’s healing love to all.

In India, the Catholic Church has long been at the forefront of healthcare, with many priests, religious sisters, and laypersons dedicating their lives to serve as doctors, nurses, and caregivers. However, the ministry faces significant challenges, including limited financial resources and insufficient government support.

Despite these hurdles, the Church remains steadfast in its mission. The passion for Jesus and genuine love for His people continue to inspire those serving in the healthcare apostolate, ensuring that the Church’s healing ministry remains a beacon of hope and care for the marginalized and suffering in society.

This symposium served as a powerful reminder of the Church's unwavering commitment to bringing Christ’s healing presence to all, especially in the face of adversity.

On October 13th, 31 brothers from the First-Year Theology class, representing various dioceses, were formally admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders during a solemn ceremony presided over by Emeritus Bishop Aloysius Paul D’Souza.

The following day, October 14th, during a Holy Mass celebrated by the Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, 20 brothers from the Second-Year Theology class were instituted as Lectors, while 26 brothers from the Third-Year Theology class were instituted as Acolytes.

Lectors are entrusted with the important role of proclaiming the Scriptures during the Liturgy of the Word, while acolytes are instituted to assist the priest and deacon at the altar, deepening their service in the liturgy.

The seminary continues to pray for these brothers as they advance in their journey towards the priesthood, while the Church remains hopeful for more vocations in the future.

From September 23 to 28, 2024, St Joseph's Institute of Theology Jeppu, Mangalore, successfully conducted a course on the Trinity and Mariology, attracting 16 students who embarked on a profound exploration of these essential theological themes under the guidance of Rev. Dr Rajesh Melvin Rosario.

The course featured a blend of formal lectures and interactive discussions, allowing students to delve into the scriptural foundations and magisterial teachings that illuminate the understanding of God's love. Rev. Dr Rosario expertly examined the Nicene Creed, highlighting its significance in articulating the core tenets of Christian faith.

Throughout the week, participants focused on the Biblical Foundations, emphasizing the pivotal roles of the Trinity and Mary in Salvation History, alongside a thorough examination of the historical context of the Council of Nicaea. This comprehensive approach fostered a deeper connection with the divine, inspiring students to embody their faith with both conviction and compassion.

The course not only enriched the students' theological knowledge but also motivated them to actively live out their beliefs in their daily lives.

On September 16th, the priests ordained in the year 1995 came together to celebrate their 30th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood. The Mass was held at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel, with the entire seminary community, coming together to give thanks to the Lord for these 26 priests who have faithfully served in His vineyard. Of the 26 priests, 10 were able to attend the celebration in person.

Rev. Fr Michael Santhumayor was the main celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration, while Fr. Polachan Kaithottungal from the Ernakulam diocese delivered a inspiring homily. In his reflection, Fr. Polachan spoke of the seminary years as the golden days of life and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the seminary and the professors who played a vital role in their formation. He encouraged the community to prepare for the challenging mission that lies ahead. During the Mass they prayed for the four members of their batch who have passed away. Afterward, the rector extended his greetings to the priests and thanked them for sharing their joy with the seminary by returning to celebrate this special occasion.

On September 10th, the seminary joyfully celebrated the festival of Onam, under the leadership of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam (Malayalam Academy). The festivities began on the evening of September 9th at 9:00 pm with a solemn prayer service led by Br Jijo and Br Libin, both in their fourth year of theology.

The following morning, Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr Shaju Vadakkumbadan, from the Diocese of Eranakulam Angamaly. Onam, a traditional harvest festival of Kerala, celebrates the legendary King Mahabali and his annual homecoming, embodying values of equality, joy, and unity, which also resonate with Christian teachings of love and community.

The celebration concluded with a traditional Kerala Sadhya, a grand feast prepared by the members of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam and shared in fellowship.

On September 9th, the seminary held a farewell program for the brothers of the Ministerial Year (IV year theology), who are now preparing to embark on their future pastoral missions.

 

Speaking on behalf of the batch, Br Rohan Fernandes expressed deep gratitude to the seminary, the Rector, and the entire staff for their sacrifice and dedication in guiding their formation. In his address, the Rector congratulated the brothers on the successful completion of their formation journey and imparted words of encouragement, highlighting three key virtues for their future ministry: gratitude towards God and the seminary faculty, unwavering commitment to their priestly vocation, and a deep love for the seminary. He emphasized that these virtues would serve as guiding principles for a fruitful and meaningful life in ministry.

 

The Rector further reminded all present that the departure of these brothers is not a loss, but a gain for the Church, as they go forth to preach the Word of God and bear witness to Christ. The seminary extends its heartfelt best wishes to the brothers as they embark on their priestly journey, praying for a fulfilling and blessed ministry.

On September 7th, the seminary joyfully celebrated the Monthi Feast, under the auspices of the Juze Vaz Konkani Academy. The celebration commenced the previous evening with a solemn Taizé prayer service, which offered a deeply spiritual experience centered on devotion to the cross.

The following morning, the Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr Lanson Pinto, a newly ordained priest. The Mass began with the traditional offering of flowers to Our Lady, reflecting the feast's Marian devotion. In his homily, Fr Lanson highlighted the significance of saying "Yes" to God's will in our daily lives, inspired by the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Special prayers were offered for the intentions of families, farmers, and girl children.

The celebration concluded with a community meal, where a traditional vegetarian lunch was shared in fraternity. Following the meal, the brothers returned to their homes to continue the festive celebrations with their families.

On September 5th, the seminary celebrated the Feast of St Teresa of Kolkata, under the guidance of the Kannada Academy. The day also coincided with the monthly recollection, providing an opportunity for the seminarians to spend time in silence, reflection, and prayer.

The recollection was led by Fr Stany Goveas, the parish priest of Madanthyar Parish, who shared the inspiring story of how God has guided him throughout his priestly journey. He reminded the seminarians that a priest is not only called to be a man of prayer but is, in essence, a living prayer.

The festive Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr Vinay Kumar, a former student of the seminary from the Diocese of Chikkamagaluru. In his homily, he underscored the virtues of simplicity and humility as essential qualities in the life of a priest.

The day’s liturgy was meticulously organized by the Kannada Academy, under the direction of Rev. Fr Francis D'Souza. It was a day rich with blessings, inspiration, and a renewed sense of vocation for all who participated.

August 24, 2024 - St Joseph's Inter-diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore, recently concluded a comprehensive two-week course on "The New Testament: The Four Gospels" from August 12-16 and August 19-23, 2024. The course, led by Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto, aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the Gospel narratives, theology, themes, and messages.  The course featured insightful lectures and engaging discussions, fostering a sense of community among the 23 participants. Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto's expertise and passion for Scripture made the course an enriching experience, promoting spiritual growth and enriching the participants' understanding of the New Testament.

The study covered the historical and cultural context of the Gospels, the unique perspectives of each evangelist, and the relevance of Gospel teachings for contemporary life. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, leaving the course with renewed enthusiasm for Scripture study. The seminary's initiative demonstrates its commitment to promoting biblical understanding and spiritual growth among the laity. The success of this course highlights the importance of such programs in fostering a deeper connection with Scripture and its relevance in modern life.

 On August 15^th we commemorated the 78th Independence Day of our beloved nation, India, a day marking the hard-won freedom secured by our valiant freedom fighters. This significant day also coincides with the Catholic Church's Feast of the Assumption of Mary, making it a doubly joyous occasion for us.

The day began with a solemn Holy Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr Rakesh Bara, S.J. In his homily, Father Rakesh reflected on the profound theme of freedom, highlighting that true freedom is found in the inner peace we cultivate within ourselves. He emphasized that the Blessed Virgin Mary, through her grace, aids us in attaining this true freedom by liberating us from sin. The liturgy for the Mass was beautifully organized by the Hindi Academy Brothers.

Following the Mass, the entire community gathered outside for the flag-hoisting ceremony. Br Leonard directed the ceremony, while Br Amit led the parade. The Hindi Academy Brothers then uplifted the spirits of all present with a rendition of the patriotic song "Lehra Do," which filled everyone with a deep sense of pride for our independent India. Br Avith then delivered an inspiring Independence Day message, reflecting on the importance of the day.

The celebrations continued with a basketball match at 10 a.m. between the brothers and the deacons. The game was highly competitive and exciting, with the brothers ultimately emerging victorious.

This day of celebration and reflection reminded us of the value of freedom, both as citizens of India and as followers of Christ, striving for the true freedom that comes from within.

The Philosophers’ Day celebrations in our esteemed institution commenced with a prayer service on August 11, 2024, at 9:00 PM. Br Derick Mascarenhas, the prefect of the philosophy section, led the prayer service and delivered an inspiring reflection.

 

On August 12, 2024, the feast day of St John Berchmans – Patron of Philosophers in our seminary was celebrated, beginning with a festive Mass presided over by the main celebrant, Rev. Fr Denzil Lobo. The day’s events continued with a cultural program at 8:30 PM in the Centenary Memorial Hall, where the brothers of the philosophy section showcased their talents through various events. They also conveyed the importance of hope, aligning with the Jubilee Year 2025. Fr Vincent Menezes graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, with Fr. Ronald Serrao rector presided over the gathering. Br Flexon Lobo, the cultural in-charge, expressed gratitude with a vote of thanks.

 

The day concluded with the reading of the Word of God and final blessings by Bishop Aloysius Paul Dsouza, the Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore Diocese.

On August 11, 2024 Sunday, 35 students of St Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu, gathered with a shared purpose: to contribute to a cleaner and greener environment. They participated in a cleanliness drive and sapling plantation in the vicinity of SDM Mangala Jyothi Integrated School, Vamanjoor, Mangalore. This event, a part of the ongoing 11th monthly Swacchata Shramadan, was organized by the Ramakrishna Mission - Swachh Mangaluru Abhiyan in association with Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited. The initiative also saw active involvement from Vana Charitable Trust, St Joseph’s Seminary, Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy, Mangala Group of Educational Institutions, NSS Unit of Yenepoya University and the Chair in Christianity of Mangalore University.

 

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed spiritual leaders and educators. Pujya Swami Jitakamanandaji of Ramakrishna Math Mangaluru and Swami Mahamedhanandaji of the Ramakrishna Institute of Moral and Spiritual Education, Mysuru, lent their guidance and wisdom to the gathering. Distinguished guests, including Dr Devraj K, Very Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, Rector of St Joseph’s Seminary, and Rev. Dr Ivan D’Souza, Head of the Chair in Christianity at Mangalore University, Sri Ranjan Bellarpady, Chief Coordinator at Ramakrishna Mission alongside and Jeeth Milan Roche from Vana Trust and many other volunteers, were also present. Their collective presence underscored the importance of the event, which aimed to instil a sense of responsibility towards nature in every participant.

 

In his address, Swami Mahamedhanandaji emphasized the profound connection between humanity and the environment, stating, “We are part of this nature. We need to give back to nature and work for its betterment.” His words served as a powerful reminder of the duty each individual holds in preserving the world around them. The message resonated deeply with the participants, encouraging them to take tangible steps toward environmental conservation.

 

Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao in his message said, “The popular expression ‘cleanliness is next to Godliness’ is valid even today and we, the citizens of our country, must promote it everywhere. When we have cleanness in our thought, speech and in our hearts, we can dream of cleanliness in our society. Clean environment is a relentless and continuous movement. Let’s join hands to create a cleanliness around us.

 

The students of St Joseph’s Seminary and students from other institutions and colleges actively engaged in both the cleanliness drive and the sapling plantation. Their enthusiastic participation demonstrated a commitment not only to the community but also to the broader goal of environmental stewardship. This initiative reflects the growing awareness and dedication among young minds to contribute positively to society and the planet, setting an example for others to emulate.

The seminary was abuzz with excitement as it celebrated New Priest Day, a significant occasion marked by reunion and reflection. Thirteen new priests returned to their Alma Mater, making the day a heartfelt gathering of old friends and spiritual mentors.

The day began on an energetic note with a thrilling cricket match between the New Priests and the seminary brothers. The game, full of friendly competition and camaraderie, saw the brothers emerging victorious.

At 11:15 am, the community gathered for the celebration of the Holy Mass, with Fr. Norman serving as the main celebrant. The Mass was enriched by a thought-provoking sermon delivered by Fr. Kennedy, who spoke on the importance of carrying forward the mission of Christ with unwavering faith and commitment.

After the Mass, the Rector extended a warm welcome to the New Priests, expressing his deep joy at witnessing their continued zeal and enthusiasm for their sacred vocation. The seminary choir added to the spirit of the occasion with a melodious performance that touched the hearts of all present.

Br. Avil, representing the brothers, offered heartfelt well-wishes to the New Priests, assuring them of the community’s prayers and support as they embark on their ministries. In response, Fr. Colin spoke on behalf of the returning priests, reminiscing about their formative years at the seminary. He expressed profound gratitude to the Rector and staff members for their invaluable guidance and dedication in nurturing their priestly vocations. The celebration concluded with a festive meal.

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.

"St. Joseph's Seminary celebrates Theologian’s Day, Bishop's Birthday, and Chapel Blessing!"

St. Joseph's Seminary recently basked in the glow of a triple celebration on July 21st, commemorating the feast day of Theologian’s patron saint, St. Aloysius Gonzaga, the esteemed Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D'Souza's birthday, and the auspicious blessing of the newly renovated Chapel.

The day unfolded with a solemn holy mass led by Bishop Aloysius, with a special presence from the Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, who graced the occasion by blessing the Chapel. During his thought-provoking homily, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized the virtues of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, particularly urging the fraternity to emulate his obedience to superiors and acknowledging the sacrifices made by the Professors for the brothers' educational journey.

The celebratory spirit continued as staff and students gathered outside the Chapel post-mass to shower Bishop Aloysius Paul D'Souza with heartfelt birthday wishes, to which the Bishop humbly expressed his gratitude for the affectionate gestures extended towards him.

Wrapping up the eventful day was a captivating cultural program orchestrated by the theologians, with Rev. Fr. Praveen Martis S.J. gracing the occasion as the chief guest. Reverend Martis lauded the cultural showcase for its creativity and encouraged the attendees to embody the noble qualities exemplified by St. Aloysius Gonzaga.

In a delightful blend of reverence, gratitude, and cultural splendor, the day at St. Joseph's Seminary left all participants enriched with enthusiasm and learning, underscoring the seminary's commitment to spiritual growth and communal celebration.

 

St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, in collaboration with St Joseph Institute of Philosophy and St Joseph Institute of Theology, hosted an innovative one-day AI workshop for seminarians on June 13, 2024, at C. M. Hall, Jeppu. The event, supported by the Canara Communication Centre and the Commission for Social Communication, Diocese of Mangalore, aimed to integrate AI into ministry and pastoral communication. Approximately 150 seminarians, including philosophers, theologians, and seminary formators, explored AI tools for evangelization, proclamation, and personal development.

Resource Persons:

Distinguished experts Mr Leo Victor and Fr AI Fernandes led the sessions, offering valuable insights into AI's practical applications in the religious context. Participants were enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform ministry approaches. Br Rakesh Francis from the Theology section stated, "This workshop has opened my eyes to the vast possibilities of using AI in our pastoral activities."

Feedback from Participants:

Br Joel Lobo from the Theology section highlighted the importance of staying updated with technological advancements, stating, "In an age where digital communication is paramount, understanding AI and its applications is crucial for our future roles in the Church. This workshop provided us with valuable skills and knowledge that will undoubtedly benefit our ministry."

Workshop Sessions:

The workshop featured three sessions. The first covered AI fundamentals, focusing on models like ChatGPT, Co-Pilot, and Gemini LLMs. The second session demonstrated visual content creation using tools like Canva and Microsoft Designer, including hands-on practice and a Q&A discussion. The final session introduced productivity-enhancing AI tools for both office settings and personal life, concluding with an open-floor discussion.

The AI workshop at St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary signifies a significant step toward integrating advanced technology into religious education and pastoral care. By equipping seminarians with AI tools and knowledge, the seminary prepares them to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world while staying true to their mission of evangelization and proclamation.

On June 7th, St. Joseph's Seminary organized an enlightening session focused on pastoral guidance for Sunday ministry and social ministry. The 45-minute talk was delivered by Rev. Fr. Charles Menezes, the esteemed Parish Priest of Udupi Church, known for his vast expertise and experience in the pastoral field.

Fr. Charles provided the seminarians with practical tips and insights, enriching their understanding and approach to pastoral duties. His guidance was met with great appreciation, as the session proved to be highly informative and beneficial for the brothers in their pastoral formation.

Rector Fr. Rony Serrao expressed his gratitude to Fr. Charles for his valuable contributions and extended his best wishes to the seminarians for their ongoing pastoral development.

St. Joseph’s Inter-Diocesan Seminary, renowned for its long-standing legacy in forming young men for the priesthood, continues to emphasize the importance of social ministry in the development of its seminarians. In this regard, the inauguration of the social ministry program was held on June 6, 2024.

 

The event was graced by Sr. Dulcin UFS, who served as the chief guest and speaker for the day. Sr. Dulcin, with her extensive knowledge and experience in the field of social work, provided invaluable guidance to the seminarians. She emphasized the virtues of respect, dignity, and service to the marginalized. Additionally, she shared practical tips to aid the seminarians in their social ministry efforts.

 

The inauguration was also attended by Rev. Fr. Ronal Serrao, the Rector, and Fr. Joswine Dsouza, the in-charge of social ministry. Their presence underscored the seminary's commitment to integrating social ministry into the formation of future priests.

St. Joseph's Inter-Diocesan Seminary joyfully reopened its doors on June 1st for the new academic year 2024-25. Following a day of recollection on June 3rd, the Seminary held the Lectio Brevis, marking the official commencement of the academic year. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Bishop of Mangalore, who presided over the Mass at 9:00 AM.

It was followed by Lectio Brevis lecture CM hall at 10:15 AM. This year, the Seminary has emphasized spiritual formation as its central focus. Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao welcomed the gathering and gave a glimpse of the seminary for the new academic year. In his address, the Bishop shared a profound message centred on the image of ‘sitting at the feet of the Master’. He emphasized that the Word of God should shape the seminarians daily, urging them to allow the Word to transform their lives.

The Lectio Brevis motivated seminarians both spiritually and intellectually for the forthcoming academic year. This solemn and inspiring beginning promises a year of growth and deepened commitment to spiritual and intellectual pursuits at St. Joseph's Seminary.

 

The Philosophical English Academy of St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy in association with Chair in Christianity, Mangalore University organised a lecture on “Food as Vaccine” on January 30 at C. M. Hall, St Joseph’s Seminary, Mangalore.

The resource person of the day was the well-known consultant physician of Mangalore Dr Srinivasa Kakkilaya and the moderator of the session was the rector of Gladsom Home for Graduate Students, Rev. Dr Leo Lasrado.  

The secretary of the Academy, Jakkula Joshua welcomed all. Rev. Dr Leo Lasrado introduced the speaker and effectively moderated the session. The resource person Dr Srinivasa Kakkilaya beautifully narrated the history of humans who evolved themselves as consumers of food. He said, “Food is everything. It is business, politics, nourishment, metabolism etc. Humans were not food producers. They were hunters and gatherers. They began to use fire and had cooked food. Our system has evolved from cooked food. In the wild there were no diseases. Today we are affected with ‘diseases of modernity’ or ‘diseases of civilization’. We have become a sugar addicted society. All our modern diseases like diabetes, blood pressure, Alzheimer, ageing, hypertension etc. are due to the consumption of sugar contained food. Hence, give up sugar contained food, milk and its products, fruits, processed grains and deep-fried food items. Our diet should include more vegetables, meat, eggs and fish.”

He added, “Covid caused problems to all people with modern diseases. Our food is controlled by political forces, pharma companies, medical world and even religious ideologies. We should question the people who are misleading us.”

After an interesting interactive question-answer session, the anchor of the program Flexon Lobo proposed the vote of thanks. The program was concluded by listening to the preamble of the constitution to mark the anniversary of assassination of our Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Around 200 participants benefitted from this effective and relevant session. Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza-Bishop Emeritus, Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao-the Rector of the seminary, Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto-the Administrator, Teaching Staff and students of Philosophy and Theology, priests, religious sisters and other guests were present for the lecture.

 

In a momentous ceremony held at St Joseph's Seminary, Jeppu, St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy in Mangalore was officially declared as an Ecclesiastical Higher Education Institution on January 24, 2024. The proclamation of the Decree was conducted by Rev. Dr Matthew Attumkal, CMI, Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy at Dharmaram Vidya Ksetram, Bangalore.

 

The declaration took place in the presence of Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangalore and the Moderator of the Institute. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and the gathered audience.

 

Rev. Dr Ivan D'Souza, the Director of St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy, elucidated on the significance of becoming an Institute of Philosophy. He highlighted that an Institute is required for students to obtain B.Ph. in order to qualify themselves for their further studies in Theology. B.Ph. degree would motivate the candidates to take philosophical study seriously and help them to philosophise in a deeper way. It also motivates the teaching faculty to be rigorous, responsible and serious about teaching philosophy. It would pave the way both for the staff and students for the learning of local or regional literature, culture, history, beliefs, practices and philosophy.

 

Dr Mathew highlighted that the affiliation is valid for five years on an experimental basis, and the certification is recognised in Europe and America. He also announced that the online library of Philosophy at Dharmaram is now accessible for students at St Joseph’s Institute.

 

“We assure our support and help in the journey of learning and imparting knowledge,” Dr. Mathew assured, emphasising the commitment to foster a conducive learning environment.

 

Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha officially announced and proclaimed the Decree of Promulgation, “The Dicastery for Culture and Education, on Oct, 23, 2023, issued the Decree of Erection of St Joseph's Institute of Philosophy, Mangalore, affiliating it with the Faculty of Philosophy of the Pontifical Atheneum Dharmaram Vidya Kshetram, Bangalore, and approving its Statutes. With much hope and prayer that St Joseph's Institute of Philosophy, Mangalore, will fulfil its objectives and the expectations that the Church has reposed on it, I am pleased to promulgate these Statutes of St Joseph's Institute of Philosophy and decree that they shall come into force on Jan.1, 2024.”

 

In his address Bishop Peter expressed his gratitude, stating, “It's a God-sent moment for us to have the institute of higher education in philosophy in our centre, providing access for all women religious to undergo education along with men.” He emphasised the versatility of philosophy as a discipline, covering dialogues across all fields of knowledge. The Bishop urged both students and staff to seize this opportunity, as the institute will undergo evaluation after five years.

 

Fr George Kulankara introduced the faculty of Dharmaram Vidya Ksetram, underlining the collaboration and exchange of knowledge between the institutions.

 

The ceremony concluded with a cultural presentation, as ‘Tulunadu Purana’ was staged to celebrate the rich culture and art forms of Tulunadu and Canara Christians. The depiction included Yakshagana, Kambala, Korikatta, Folk Dance, Gumta, Baila, Roce, and wedding ceremony, adding an artistic touch to the event.

 

Fr Manoj Mathew, the teacher of philosophy proposed the vote of thanks and acknowledged the help and assistance of every one.

 

This momentous declaration marks a significant step for St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy, solidifying its position as an Ecclesiastical Higher Education Institution in Mangalore with a commitment to imparting knowledge and fostering intellectual growth.

 

Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D Souza, Bishop Emeritus, Rev. Dr Joseph Martis, Sr Lilly Pereira, Rev. Dr Rocky DCunha, OFM CAP, Religious Sisters and Priests and the staff and students of St Joseph Seminary were present. 

The universal annual prayer octave for Christian unity was inaugurated here at St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu on January 18. Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore diocese, Rev. Hemachandra Kumar, bishop of the Church of South India, Karnataka Southern diocese along with the seminary rector Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, the diocesan secretary for Ecumenism Rev. Fr Rupesh Madtha, secretary for Mangalore Christian Council Rev. Prabhuraj, Rev. Sunil Thomas, Rev. Fr Francis D’Souza, Rev. Binu John and others initiated the prayer week. Seminarians from Jeppu seminary and Karnataka Theological College, priests, religious and lay faithful took part in the prayer service. The CCBI secretary for Ecumenism Rev. Fr Baptist Pais SVD was present for the spiritual meet.

Prayer octave for Christian unity is an annual exercise among the mainline churches all over the world from January 18 to 25, directed by the World Council of Churches (WCC). This intends to bring together all the churches in prayer. Despite their differences they join hearts in prayer and join hands for service of humankind.

The theme of the year 2024 is ‘You shall love the Lord your God...and your neighbour as yourself’ (Luke 10:27).

 

St Joseph Seminary, which has a long-standing legacy of 145 years, celebrated its ‘Seminary Day 2023’ with a dazzling array of cultural programmes and heartfelt expressions of gratitude. The event, graced by esteemed guests including Most Rev Dr Joachim Walder, the auxiliary Bishop of Aizawl Diocese, as the Chief Guest, Most Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangalore, and the Chairman of the Board of Administration of the Seminary, witnessed a warm welcome extended to dignitaries and attendees by Very Rev Fr Ronald Serrao, the Rector of the Seminary.

The programme commenced with a prayer song, performed by the Seminary Choir, setting an atmosphere of praises and thanks to the Almighty God.

Seminary Rector, Very Rev Fr Ronald Serrao, took the stage to present a comprehensive report highlighting the academic achievements and milestones of the institution during the academic year 2022-2023. The report not only recounted the academic journey but also expressed gratitude for the goodwill of well-wishers.

The chief guest, Most Rev Dr Joachim Walder, in his address recounted his days of formation spent in the seminary and also shared about his missionary works in his diocese.

The cultural events unfolded with a Hindi drama titled “The Apostle of Arunachal Pradesh,” presented by the Hindi Academy. The play vividly portrayed the missionary endeavors of Brother Prem Bhai, offering glimpses into the challenges and triumphs of his evangelization journey in Arunachal Pradesh.

The St Zuze Vas Konkani Academy took the stage with a musical drama titled “§gÁåAPï E£ÁªÀiï SÉÆmÁåAPï ²PÁë” based on the parable of Talents from the gospel, challenging everyone to reflect on the use of their talents for the betterment of society.

Malayalam academy presented a thought-provoking Malayalam drama, “Swargathinde Paarpidangal,” exploring the eternal struggle for goodness in the face of impending doom. The performance left the audience on the edge of their seats, contemplating the fate of humanity.

Kannada Academy contributed to the cultural diversity with the drama “eÉãÀÄUÀÆqÀÄ - the hive of love,” emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and unity in successful marriages.

 

The evening reached its crescendo with an English drama, “Hiccups of Tyranny: A Tale of Tears,” presented by St Joseph’s Seminary. The play shed light on the enduring presence of power, monarchy, and exploitation in contemporary society, offering a poignant reflection on the struggles faced by citizens against oppressive regimes.

The event culminated with the vote of thanks to all the distinguished guests and everyone present for enhancing the joy of Seminary Day 2023, resonating the collective spirit and gratitude for the blessings of the past 145 years.

SJS family commemorated and prayed for all the departed souls on All Souls Dayon November 2, 2023. On this occasion, we remembered all the departed staff and students of the seminary.  The entire staff and students together made a visit to the priest’s cemetery in the Valencia Church compound and paid homage to them and made a special prayer. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, the Rector presided over the prayer and exhorted about the importance of the day and the age old tradition of the Church. At 11:30 am a special Holy Eucharistic celebration was held for all the departed souls. Rev. Fr Milton Jacob presided over the Eucharist and Rev. Fr Felix Montero concelebrated.

The Mission Auction Day was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Seminary Jeppu with grandeur. The event was well-organized and executed by the third year theology brothers along with students council members, under the guidance of Fr. Rajesh Rosario. Rev. Fr  Ronald Serrao, the rector, inaugurated the mission auction program with his inaugural address. Fr. Naveen Pinto, the administrator of the seminary, conducted the mission auctions. The auction was a great success, with brothers and staff members actively participating in it. In addition to the auctions, the event also featured a mission food stall, mission games, and a mission movie. All of the events were well-attended and enjoyed by all. At the end of the event, Bro. Jeevan, the chairman of the student’s council, thanked everyone for their participation and cooperation. He also expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed items to the auctions and helped to make the event a success. it was a time for the seminary community to come together and celebrate the missionary spirit.

A study session on How to read a book effectively was held on Thursday, 19th October 2023 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The speaker of the day was Rev.Fr Henry D'Almeida SJ. Br  Rohit from II^nd year Philosophy was the Master of ceremony of the programme .The session began  with a prayer song by  1^st Year Philosophy brothers and Br Rohit welcomed the gathering. Rev Fr Ronald Serrao welcomed the chief guest with a Sapling, Rev. Father Antony George Pinto, HOD of the Theology section, Rev Father Ivan D’Souza, HOD of the Philosophy section also took part in the inaugural session.  After the talk there was a Q&A session where, many students and staff members clarified their doubrs. The session was concluded by the Seminary anthem at 8:00 p.m.

Bishop Emeritus Most Reverend Aloysius Paul D'Souza conferred the rite admission to the Candidacy for clerical Orders to twenty-two brothers from different dioceses on October 15^th, 2023.  The brothers had prepared themselves spiritually for this significant moment. Br. Vinol, expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this day possible. The Director of Human Formation, Father Milton Jacob, was present and delivered a motivating homily. Father Rector guided the entire liturgy.

The following morning, on October 16th, during the Mass, the second and third-year theology brothers received the ministries of reader and acolyte. Most Reverend Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangalore, conferred these ministries. There were 26 brothers from the second year and 19 brothers from the third year theology. Father Antony Pinto and Father Alex Kalarikkal, the Human Formation Directors of the second and third-year theology, participated in the Mass. The Bishop encouraged the brothers to stay updated with Church documents and to continue growing in their spiritual lives.

St. Joseph's Seminary, Jeppu Mangalore, witnessed the grand commencement of the annual 'Josiad' event on October 4^th, 2023. This eagerly anticipated occasion began with a spirited presentation by four teams - Caritas, Veritas, Unitas, and Bonitas.

 

The inauguration featured Fr. Rupesh Madtha, editor of Raknno Mangalore diocesan weekly magazine, hoisting the Josiad flag and unveiling the event's theme, 'Unity propels us, victory awaits us.' Fr. Ronald Serrao, the Rector, ignited the 'Josiad torch,' symbolizing the start of games and cultural activities. Team leaders received the torch, signifying their leadership.

Fr. Rajesh Rosario, the Josiad Coordinator, conducted the oath-taking ceremony, emphasizing integrity and sportsmanship.

This inspiring inauguration energized participants to approach the upcoming days with enthusiasm and unity, making 'Josiad 2023’ a promising celebration of community and competition.

The Expro 2023-24 program for the first-year theologians commenced on October 3rd. in Naravi parish of Mangalore diocese. They were welcomed by the Parish priest, Reverend Fr Valerian Fernandes. The group was accompanied by Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, the Administrator, Rev. Fr Antony Pinto, the Head of the Theology Department, and Reverend Father Milton Jacob, the Director of Human Formation for the first-year theologians.

The primary task of the Expro was to assist a less fortunate family by constructing the foundation of their house. On October 4th, the construction work began, with the seminarians divided into three groups. One group worked on the foundation, another group gathered sand from the river, and the last group collected stones from the hill. They completed the work within two days.

On the third day, the task was to dismantle the roof of an old, unused house on the Naravi parish premises and collect the roof tiles to provide them to the same family. Some of the seminarians were also involved in leveling the compound wall at another location. In the evening, the seminarians organized a short cultural program for the children residing in the Naravi hostel.

The Deacons' farewell program took place on September 10th at 8:30 pm. The event commenced with a brief prayer and a warm welcome by Brother Jijo Jose. Brother Bhaskar Das extended his felicitations to those in attendance on behalf of all the students. The choir members delivered a farewell song dedicated to the outgoing students. Representing the fourth-year theologians, Brother Kennedy Fernandes delivered a response speech, expressing gratitude to their formators and fellow brothers. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, the rector extended his best wishes for their future ministries on behalf of the entire staff and student body of the seminary. The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks and the night prayer, led by the master of the ceremony. After receiving the final blessings from Father Rector, the assembly dispersed in silence.

The feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monthi Feast)  was celebrated with grandeur. The Liturgy was organised by the St Joseph Vaz Konkani Academy.  Rev. Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado priest of the Mangalore  Diocese, the present Rector of the minor seminary 'Gladsom Home'  presided over the Eucharistic Celebration and shared the Word of God. The liturgy was in Konkani and the celebration was solemnized with the presence of Fr Ronald Serrao, the rector, Bishop Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop Emeritus of Mangalore Diocese and the all resident priest s of the seminary. As the part of Celebration Traditional festal lunch was served. 

The feast of St Mother Teresa of Calcutta was celebrated with a spiritual fervour. The liturgy was organised by the Kannada acedmey brothers on the occasion of their patron’s feast. On this occasion the new statue of St Teresa of Calcutta was blessed by Rev Fr Ronald Serrao, the rector of the seminary. Rev. Fr George Fernandes from the diocese of Chikkamagaluru Diocese who concelebrated the Eucharist with other priests. 

The Department of Philosophy organised a day visit to the different religious places of worship in Mangalore. As a part of this program, the seminarians visited seven different places of worship beginning with Ramakrishna Mission Mutt, followed by Jain Temple, Bejai Church, Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Spiritual World University, Sikh Gurudwara, Kadri Temple, Ullal Darga and finally to St Anthony's Syrian Jacobite Church. The visit to all these religious centres enhanced the knowledge of their religious practices and beliefs. The program was spearheaded by the HOD of philosophy, Rev. Dr Ivan D'Souza. 

The Onam festivities unfolded with grace and fervour. The brothers of the seminary dedicated their artistic talents to construct a visually captivating flower carpet in front of the Chapel, cantered around the theme of Manipur violence. Additionally, an exquisite portrayal of a tharavadu, maveli, and kathakali served as a captivating backdrop for the Atham (flower carpet).

At 9:00 PM, a prayer service was conducted by Deacon Shelly. Deacon Shijoy gave a beautiful reflection on the Word of God. A video presentation was made, which narrated the rich history, traditions, rituals, and customs associated with the Onam festival.

The culmination of our celebration occurred at 6:15 AM, with a Malayalam mass led by Rev. Fr Yesudas Koduveettil, from the diocese of Alapey. His homily touched the hearts of all in attendance. Rev. Fr Rector, alongside Rev. Frs Milton, Alex, Manoj, and Felix, joined in concelebrating the Holy Eucharist, bestowing a profound spiritual experience upon the congregation.

The spirit of festivity continued with Onam games commencing at 8:30 AM, open to both our esteemed Fathers and brothers. Amidst the rhythmic beats of the chendai, Maveli made his grand entrance. The highlight of these games was the Vadam Vali competition (tug of war), where each batch displayed their prowess. Following these spirited activities, a sumptuous Onam Sadya feast was meticulously prepared and served leaving everyone satiated and content. The grand celebration concluded with a captivating musical program, ensuring that all in attendance were thoroughly entertained and inspired by the spirit of Onam.

 

St Joseph’s Inter-Diocesan Seminary Jeppu celebrated the solemnity of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary and Independence Day. The program was organised by the brothers of the Hindi academy. The celebration began on 14 evening with the solemn Vespers led by Fr Ivan D’Souza, the Director of the Hindi academy, assisted by Dn. Vipin Tigga and Dn. Norman. During the vespers Dn. Vipin Tigga gave a short reflection. The festive mass was celebrated at 6:15 a.m. Fr Rakesh Bara SJ celebrated the mass and delivered the homily. The celebration was solemnised with the presence of the guest priest Fr Melwin D’ Cunha SJ and other resident fathers. The choir was led by the Hindi academy members. After the mass the ceremony of flag hoisting was organised. Mr Sebastian D’Souza the senior cook of the seminary was the chief guest of the program. Bro Jeevan Lobo III Theology gave Independence Day message. As part of the celebration, a cricket match was held between SJS brothers and Carmelite brothers. The match was won by the SJS brothers. 

The events of the Philosophers Day began with Vespers on 09 Aug 2023 at 07:30 PM. Fr Joswin led the vespers and Br Melrick delivered the reflection. On 10 Aug 2023 the feast was celebrated beginning with festive mass celebrated by Fr Boniface Pinto who gave wonderful homily over the life our Patron, St John Berchmans. The cultural events mounted by 08:30 PM at C.M. hall where the brothers of philosophy section forecasted their talents and gave the message on how important philosophical studies is. Fr Felix Monteiro was the Chief Guest, Fr Ronald Serrao being the President of the event. The day came to an end by reading the Word of God and final blessings by Bishop Aloysius Paul, the Emeritus Bishop of Mangalore Diocese.

Commemorating St John Mary Vianney, the patron of priests a solemn yet awe-inspiring celebration was organised at St Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary on Friday, August 04, 2023, with eleven newly- ordained priests of the 2022-23 pass-out batch. The festal mass began at 11 o'clock. Rev. Fr Rector Ronald Serrao welcomed the new priests to their alma mater. Rev. Fr Robin was the main celebrant and Fr. Lohith delivered the homily. After the holy Eucharistic celebration, The felicitation program was held in order to congratulate them. Fr Antony George Pinto who celebrated his birthday on the same day. The cultural committee arranged the program and Br Sherin was the MC of the day. Rev Fr Alex Kalarikkal the director of the Institute of Theology felicitated the new priests and the Choir members sang the wishing song. The seminarians wished the new priests with roses. Rev. Fr Rector conveyed the birthday greetings of the seminary by giving a bouquet to Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto. Fr. Anujo expressed the Words of gratitude and the meeting was concluded with a photo session. There was a grand festive meal to increase the joy of the celebration.

A study session on uniform civil code was held at 3rd year theology classroom on Tuesday, 26th July 2023 at 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. The speaker of the day was Rev. Fr Chetan lobo OFM cap. Bro Jayanth II theology was the Master of ceremony of the programme .The session began with a prayer song by OCD Brothers and Bro Rohan of III theology welcomed the gathering. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao welcomed the chief guest with a bouquet. Rev. Fr Alex Kalarikkal the director of St Joseph institute of theology, Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto HOD of the Theology section, Rev Fr Ivan D’Souza HOD of the Philosophy section also took part in the inaugural session. The session discussed various aspects and different after effects of uniform civil code proposed by Indian government. After the talk there was a fruitful interaction session in which brothers clarified their doubts. At the end Bro Dinu of the III theology proposed the vote of thanks and the session was concluded by the Seminary anthem at 8:15 p.m.

St Joesph’s Inter-Diocesan Seminary in collaboration with the Catholic Diocese of Stockholm, Sweden to promote the care of our mother earth, officially launched the Laudato Si project in the campus on 13/07/2023 at 8:30 am. The programme started with a prayer song, followed by a welcome. Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D. Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore Diocese; Rev. Fr. Ronald Serrao, the Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary; Fr. Alex Kalarikkal, the Director of St. Joseph Institute of Theology; and Fr. Naveen Pinto, the Administrator of the Seminary, served as dignitaries of the day and inaugurated the programme by lighting up the lamp. Followed by the distribution of the book copy of Laudato Si encyclical to all the students. The entire program was judiciously well organised by the HOD of the St. Joseph Institute of Theology, Rev. Dr Antony George Pinto. Fr Rajesh Rosario, the professor in the theology department, summarised the Laudato Si encyclical and emphasised that the encyclical is ground breaking document as it gives importance to ‘cosmocentrism’ rather than ‘anthropocentrism.’ Later, Fr Alex Kalarikkal, the director of St Joseph Institute of Theology, engaged in a session on the pragmatic implications of the Laudato Si encyclical and made the remark that each individual has to take action towards the betterment of Mother Earth. A group discussion was held under the guidance of Fr. Joswin D. Souza, a professor in the philosophy department, to make the theoretical session more practical. For fifteen minutes, twelve groups discussed twelve distinct environmental and Laudato Si related questions, subsequently, they shared with the congregation their suggestions and opinions. Some of the suggestions and opinions include the following: • Implement a plastic-free policy on campus to minimize plastic waste. • Establish a system to collect and repurpose useful plastic waste. • Install solar panels to harness solar energy and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources. • Organize lectures and educational events to raise awareness about sustainable practices. • Encourage people to shift away from the throwaway culture and promote reusable alternatives. • Utilize street plays as a creative way to educate and engage the community on environmental issues. • Emphasize the importance of recycling and encourage the use of recycled products. • Establish a "Green Army" or student group dedicated to promoting sustainable practices on campus. • Reduce the use of electric goods and explore energy-efficient alternatives. • Promote plant adoption within the campus to enhance green spaces and improve air quality. • Raise awareness about sustainability through talks and sermons within the campus community. • Encourage double-sided printing and the use of both sides of the paper to reduce paper waste. • Encourage the habit of turning off lights when not in use to conserve electricity. • Promote responsible electricity usage and spare electricity wherever possible. • Implement water-saving measures, such as fitting taps with aerators and promoting responsible water usage. • Reduce excessive plastic usage and explore alternatives like reusable containers and cloth napkins. • Schedule campus cleaning activities only once a week to reduce resource consumption. • Encourage the use of long-term bags made from sustainable materials. • Promote the concept of "wealth out of waste" by encouraging creative reuse and repurposing of materials. • Implement solar energy solutions and adopt water conservation practices to reduce environmental impact. • Encourage the use of pens with refillable ink cartridges to reduce plastic waste. • Prioritize the use of recyclable materials and products. • Establish proper e-waste management systems to ensure the responsible disposal of electronic waste. The programme concluded with the instruction for the students, to put the plan into action by working and cleaning the campus.

A special session on the topic of Judicious and Responsible Use of Media was organised for all philosophy and theology students at St. Joseph's Seminary on July 10 and on July 11, 2023, respectively from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Fr Dr Chetan Lobo, a Capuchin served as a resource person, and Br Melrick D'Souza moderated the session. The session started with a prayer. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, the Rector of the Seminary, offered a floral welcome to the resource person. Fr Ivan D'Souza the dean of philosophy; Fr Antony George Pinto the dean of theology; and Fr Joswin D Souza, the professor in the philosophy department, were present for the initiation programme. The resource person, Fr Dr Chetan Lobo, started the session with an ice-breaking question. Then he explained how media and their usefulness in this current era. He emphasised the point that media as an object does not have any good or bad aspects; it is the user who defines it as good or bad. He also mentioned the working strategy of the media and how it misuses users’ data. So, he gave some input on how to use media judiciously and responsibly. At the end, there was a Q&A session. The chief guest cleared up three doubts and questions that were raised by the participants. The session ended with a vote of thanks.

St. Thomas Day on July 3rd was celebrated in the seminary under the leadership of Marthoma Malayala Samajam. The celebration led all towards the spirit of discipleship of Saint Thomas. As a preparation, prayer service was conducted on 2nd July at 9:00 p.m. Dn. Ajay Varkey Puthukkattuchira led the prayer service and intercessory prayers by Bro Sherin Johny. Marthoma Malayala Samajam choir made the prayer service more heavenly by their hymns. The solemn festal mass began at 6:30 a.m. The main celebrant Fr Tomy Mattam director of Catechetical Center Belthangady delivered the message of the day. Fr. Alexander Kalarickal, Fr. Milton Jacob and Fr. Manoj Mathew con-celebrated the Eucharistic celebration. Bro. Bijeesh Kuriakose Puthettupadavil remembered everyone thankfully for their participation and support. After the Eucharistic celebration Marthoma Malayalam Samajam gathered together and distributed prizes of “Vayana vaaram” competitions. At 8:30 a.m. Saint Thomas basketball Cup was held between theology and philosophy section brothers. The philosophy section became the champions of St Thomas Cup 2023.

Mangalore, Jun 5: "Chosen from among men appointed to act on behalf of men" (Heb 5:1) Responding to the call of God, the 13 young men were ordained deacons on 5th June 2013 at St Joseph's Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore. Among the thirteen deacons, three belong to the diocese of Mangalore, two to Calicut, two to Udupi, one to Jashpur and five to the Congregation of OCD (Carmelites). Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha Bishop of Mangalore, presided over the Holy Eucharist and ordained the ordinandis as deacons. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, the Rector of the Seminary, called out the names of the ordinandis to be ordained by the Bishop as Deacons. In His Homily, His Excellency instructed the candidates with the Word of God spelled out the role of a deacon in the Church. He called all the ordinandis to do the will of God generously and to serve God and mankind with love and joy. Addressing the deacons Bishop expressed, "You are the ministers of the Word of God and you have to express in action what you proclaim by word of mouth" "Go into the entire world and proclaim the Good News to the whole creation" (Mk 16: 15). Later, the aspirants pledged to lead a life of celibacy and obedience. After the litany of the saints, the ceremony proceeded with the most important rite of the ordination, which is laying on of hands on the ordinandis by the Bishop. The rite succeeded in the investiture of the deacons with the stole and dalmatics. Afterwards the Bishop gave them the Book of Gospels saying, "Believe what you read, preach what you believe and practice what you preach" The ritual ended with the kiss of peace. The Holy Eucharist was followed by the felicitation to the newly ordained Deacons. Priests, Religious Sisters, Seminarians, Parents, Friends and Relatives of the deacons witnessed the celebration with their presence. The beauty of the Eucharistic celebration was enhanced by the prayerful Liturgy and Cecilian Choir under the leadership of Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto. The participants experienced the presence of Divine love and grace in the celebration The newly ordained deacons are: Dn. Anthony Stephen, OCD Dn. John Clifford Rodrigues,OCD Dn. Pranam Jovin Fernandes, OCD Dn. Santhosh Menezes, OCD Dn. Siltan Philip Noronha, OCD Dn. Vipin Kumar Tigga, Jashpur Dn. Lanson Maxim Pinto, Mangalore Dn. Norman John Mathias, Mangalore Dn. Pradeep Clarence Rodrigues, Mangalore Dn. Rikson Monteiro, Udupi Dn. Stephan Rodrigues, Udupi Dn. Shanto Anthony, Calicut Dn. Shijoy Francis, Calicut

St Joseph's Inter Diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, celebrated their 143th Seminary Day on December 1, 2022, with resplendence. The campus was beautifully decorated with stars and lights to commemorate the day. The day's celebration started with the solemn Eucharistic Mass at 7 am with Fr Valerian D'Souza, priest, Mangalore Diocese, was the main celebrant. The priests of the seminary also concelebrated the mass. Fr Rajesh Rosario broke the Word of God, with the remembrance of the history of the seminary day and how it has followed as a tradition. He also reminded the context of the motto of the seminary Administri Salutis (ministers of salvation). The mass was followed by the final preparations for the day. All the seminarians and the professors were involved in beautifying the campus. In the meantime, the seminarians were also having their final practices. The cultural programme started with the presence of all the seminarians, professors, guests and the dignitaries who gathered in the premises by 5.30 pm. The programme started with a prayer song Lord, increase my faith. Fr Ronald Serrao welcomed the esteemed guests and thereafter presented the report of the academic year 2021 2022. The chief guest of the programme Dr Gheevarghese Mar Aprem, the auxiliary Bishop of Archeparchy of Kottayam and an alumnus of our seminary recollected the memories of his old days in this seminary and expressed his gratitude for the formation he received in this seminary. Moreover, he also highlighted the importance of the formation received by the seminarians to priesthood, because that helps us to live synodality in the spirit. He also said that the baptismal dignity of every baptized Christian is very important. He also reminded us of the basic vocation that the Lord has given to all to all of us and the formation in the seminaries need to highlight the aspect of community building. The cultural programmes from various academies were the next part of the programme. Starting with Kannada Academy brothers who acted Parara Seveyalli Kristannanu Kaanu (See Christ in the Service to Others), a drama based on the life of St Teresa of Kolkata on the occasion of her 25th death Anniversary. The Marthoma Malayala Samajam (Malayalam Academy) came out with Kadalolam Kanivu (Boundless Mercy), a performance on the vista of the real divine love of God. The Hindi Academy brothers presented on the lives and sufferings of the people of Kandhamal, an incident that shook the Church in India. The brothers of the St Joseph Vaz Konkani Academy came out with play Munsha Modhe Munis Zavn (To be Human amidst Humans), where they indicated on the various issues faced by the church due to lack of vocations to priesthood and if they could introduce Humanoid in place of priests the man of God. The main attraction was the English Drama Kanoa: The Knock of Freedom, a drama imaginatively based on the prior life of Simon of Cyrene, before helping Jesus to carry his cross to Mount of Calvary. The seminary day ended by 8 pm with the seminary anthem. The guests met the seminarians and professors and expressed their happiness and gratitude on the efforts taken to make this seminary day a success.