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.