Events

Events at St Joseph Seminary

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Celebrating 78th Independence Day and the Feast of the Assumption

15-08-2024

 On August 15th 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.

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Swacch Mangaluru Abhiyan: Students of St. Joseph’s Seminary and Ramakrishna Mission Join Forces for Cleanliness and Green Initiatives

11-08-2024

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.

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New Priests Day Celebrated at the Seminary

08-08-2024

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.

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Seminary Launches Theology Course for the Laity

01-07-2024

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.

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Celebration of Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

29-06-2024


 

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.

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St Joseph's Seminary celebrates Theologians' Day, Bishop's Birthday, and Chapel Blessing

21-06-2024

"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.

 

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Transforming Pastoral Ministry: AI Workshop at St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore

13-06-2024

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.

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Food As Vaccine Session Organised

30-01-2024



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.

 

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St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy Mangalore, Declared Ecclesiastical Higher Education Institution

24-01-2024

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. 

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St Joseph Seminary celebrates Seminary Day

07-12-2023

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.

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Vibrant Onam Celebrations Adorns the Seminary

29-08-2023

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.

 

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Profound Observance Illuminates the Spirit of Laudato si day

13-07-2023

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.
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Thirteen Seminarians are raised to Order of Diaconate

05-06-2023

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
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St Joseph's Seminary Day celebrated with resplendence

01-12-2022

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.