2013 - Kerala Catholic Bishops` Council
Transcription
2013 - Kerala Catholic Bishops` Council
PASTORAL ORIENTATION CENTRE Secretariat, Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS Emerged on the clarion call of the Second Vatican Council PASTORAL ORIENTATION CENTRE Secretariat, Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council Deep gratitude to the former Office Bearers of the KCBC 2010-2013 His Grace Abp. Mar Andrews Thazhath His Grace Abp. Dr. Francis Kallarakal His Grace Abp. Thomas Mar Koorilos Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council Secretariat, POC, Cochin-25, Kerala, India, E-mail: [email protected], www.kcbc.in HEARTY WELCOME TO THE NEW OFFICE BEARERS President His Eminence Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Major Archbishop's House, Pattom, Trivandrum-695 004 Tel: +91-471-2541642, 2540446, Fax: 2541635 E-mail: [email protected] Vice-President Secretary General His Grace Mar Joseph Perumthottam His Excellency Joseph Kariyil Archbishop's House, Changanachery-686 101 Tel: +91-481-2420040, 2420379, Fax: 2422540 E-mail: [email protected] Bishop's House, Kochi-682 001 Tel: +91-484-2215401, 2215402, Fax: 2215404 E-mail: [email protected] Rhythms and T he rhythms and beats of the Church in Kerala are truly reflected in each of the programmes organised by the Pastoral Orientation Centre. The dual functions of the POC as the Secretariat of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council and the common pastoral centre of the regional Church echo the contemporary history of the Kerala Catholic Church. As a common abode of the three individual Churches the history of the POC is the memoir of the devoted service rendered by the Centre to the people of God and the wider society in Kerala. As POC is the Secretariat of the KCBC its annual report for the year 2013 is also the report of the commissions of the KCBC, which has their central secretariat at the POC. The numerous and valuable programmes organised by the POC in the last year manifest the incontrovertible importance and role of the POC in unifying the three ritual Churches in Kerala. Fr. Stephen Alathara Deputy Secretary General & Spokesperson, KCBC Director, POC 6 The faith is working through love in the ministries of the POC. The Church in Kerala is constantly kept Beats of the Kerala Church updated with matters of faith, morals and other related aspects of the Church magisterium. In the last year also the centre was committed to the formation of the faithful of the region, to express and feel their Catholic unity with loyalty to the Holy See and apostolic succession. The pulse of the new evangelization and the universal observance of the Year of Faith were promptly and relevantly handed on to the people God by the POC as per the directives and guidance of the KCBC. The POC was able to empower the Church in Kerala for a renewed and committed Christian life and witness through various seminars and workshops conducted during the Year of Faith. Looking back at the various apostolates of the POC from 1968, one can witness a band of distinguished and devoted bishops, priests, religious sisters and lay faithful, who have willingly sacrificed their lives and significantly moulded this great edifice. All of them deserve a univocal praise and commendation for their selfless and tireless efforts for the POC and the Church in Kerala. Since its inception till now all the staff members including, priests, sisters and laity with a genuine spirit of the messengers of truth and love provided their dedicated service to the Church and society. Their hard work, free and frank wider vision about the Church, forthright and balanced approach and spotless amity helped the Centre to provide an excellent service to all the people. I am happy to record our deep appreciation and sincere gratitude to His Eminence Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the President of the KCBC, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Mar Joseph Perumthottam, the Vice President of the KCBC and His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil, the Secretary General of the KCBC for their unconditional support and constant encouragement. It is my pleasure and honour to present the brief and comprehensive report of the POC for the Year 2013. Many significant events occurred during the reported period move our hearts to praise and thank the good Lord. 7 SYRO - MALABAR HIERARCHY 8 His Beatitude Cardinal Mar George Alenchery His Grace Mar Andrews Thazhath His Grace Mar George Valiamattam Major Archbishop of Syro-Malabar Church Major Archbishop's House P.B. No. 2580, Ernakulam, Cochin - 682 031 Ph: 0484-2363664, 2352906, 2352629 Fax: 0484-2366028, 2355010 E-mail: [email protected] Archbishop of Thrissur Archbishop’s House, Trichur- 680 005 Ph : 0487-2333325, 2338203 Fax : 0487-2338204 E-mail : [email protected] Archbishop of Thellichery Archbishop’s House, P.B. No.70, Thalassery - 673 101 Ph : 0490-2344977, 2341058 Fax : 0491-2525129 E-mail : [email protected] His Grace Mar Joseph Perumthottam His Grace Mar Mathew Moolakkatt His Excellency Mar Jacob Manathodath Archbishop of Changanachery Archbishop’s House, Changanachery - 686 101 Ph : 0481-2420040, 2420379 Fax : 0481-2422540 E-mail : [email protected] Archbishop of Kottayam Catholic Archbishop’s House P.B. No. 71, Kottayam - 686 001 Ph : 0481- 2563527, 2563812 Fax : 0481-2563327 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Palakkad Bishop’s House, P. B. No.4 Noorani P.O., Palghat - 678 004 Ph : 04912-525129, 2515277 Fax : 0491-2225129 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Mar Mathew Arackal His Excellency Mar Pauly Kannookadan His Excellency Mar George Madathikandathil Bishop of Kanjirappally Bishop’s House, Kanjirappally - 686 507 Ph : 04828-202441, 202665 Fax : 04828-206022 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Irinjalakuda Bishop’s House, Irinjalakuda - 680 121 Ph : 0480-2826830, 2826820 Fax : 0480-2825050 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Kothamangalam Bishop’s House, P.B. No. 6, Kothamangalam - 686 691 Ph : 0485-2862236, 2862237 Fax : 0485-2861625 E-mail : [email protected] SYRO - MALABAR HIERARCHY His Excellency Mar Jose Porunnedom His Excellency Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil His Excellency Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil Bishop of Mananthavady Bishop’s House, P.B. No. 1 Mananthavady - 670 645 Ph : 04935-240735, 240745 Fax : 04935-240265 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Thamarassery Bishop’s House, P.B. No. 1 Thamarassery 673 573 Ph : 0495-2223376 Fax : 0495-2223019 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Idukki Bishop’s House, Karimpan Manippara P.O, Idukki - 685 602 Ph : 0486-2230204, 230102 Fax : 0486-2230100 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath His Excellency Mar Joseph Kallarangatt His Excellency Mar Jacob Murikkan Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam Archbishop’s House, P. B. No. 2580, Ernakulam, Cochin - 682 031 Ph: 0484-2363664, 2352906, 2352629 Fax: 0484-2366028, 2355010 E-mail: [email protected] Bishop of Palai Bishop’s House, P. B. No. 18, Pala - 686 575 Ph: 0482-2212216, 2212217, 2220229 Fax : 0482-2211379 E-mail : [email protected] Auxiliary Bishop of Palai Bishop’s House, P. B. No. 18, Pala - 686 575 Ph: 0482-2212216, 2212217, 2220229 Fax : 0482-2211379 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Mar Jose Puthenveettil His Excellency Mar Joseph Pandarasseril His Excellency Mar Raphael Thattil Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam Archbishop’s House, P. B. No. 2580, Ernakulam, Cochin - 682 031 Ph: 0484-2363664, 2352906, 2352629 Fax: 0484-2366028, 2355010 E-mail : [email protected] Auxiliary Bishop of Kottayam Sreepuram Bishop’s House Pallikunnu P.O., Kannur - 670 004 Ph: 0497-2701333, 2702133 Fax: 0497-2709333 E-mail : [email protected] Auxiliary Bishop of Trichur Archbishop’s House, Trichur - 680 005 Ph : 0487-2333325, 2320899 Fax : 0487-2338204 E-mail : [email protected] 9 LATIN CATHOLIC HIERARCHY 10 His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Soosa Pakiam His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal Archbishop of Trivandrum Archbishop’s House, Vellayambalam, P.B. No.805, Trivandrum - 695 003 Ph : 0471-2724001, 2724002, Fax : 0471-2725001 E-mail : [email protected] Archbishop of Verapoly Latin Archbishop’s House P. B. No. 2581, Cochin - 682 031 Ph : 0484-2372892, 2380474, Fax : 0484-2360911 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Cochin Bishop’s House, Cochin 682 001 Ph: 0484 2215401, 2215402, Fax: 0484 2215404 E-mail: [email protected] Bishop of Calicut Bishop’s House, Malaparamba, Kozhikode - 673 009 Ph: 0495 2377013, 2376648 Fax: 0495-2377013 Email : [email protected] His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Stanley Roman His Excellency, Rt. Rev. Dr. Stephen Athipozhiyil His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Karikkassery His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Sebastian Thekethecheril Bishop of Quilon Bishop’s House Thangassery P.O., Quilon - 691 007. Ph : 0474-2796140, Fax : 0474-2791850 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Alleppey Bishop’s House, P. B. No. 4804 Alappuzha - 688 012 Ph : 0477-2244011, 2243363, Fax : 0477-2243362 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Kottapuram Bishop’s House, Kottappuram - 680 667 Ph : 0480-2802865, 2802165 Fax : 0480-2802865 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Vijayapuram Vijayapuram Bishop’s House P. B. No. 82, Kottayam - 686 001 Ph : 0481-2565863, 2563747 Fax : 0484-2565863 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Vincent Samuel His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Abir Antonysamy His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Alex Vadakumthala Bishop of Neyyattinkara Bishop’s House, Neyyattinkara - 695 123 Ph : 0471-2223133, 2220693 Fax : 0471-2222262 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Punalur Bishop’s House, Punalur - 691305 Ph : 0475-2225419, 3954711 Fax : 0475-2225419 E-mail : [email protected] Bishop of Sultanpet Bishop's House, Chendyankalai, Kanjikode West Palakad-678623 Phone: 0491-2803420, 2803421 Email: [email protected] Bishop of Kannur Bishop’s House, Chovva P.O., Kannur 670 006 Ph: 0497- 2729977(O), 2729966(P) Fax: 0497-2729955 E-mail: [email protected] SYRO -MALANKARA HIERARCHY His Beatitude Moran Mor Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos His Grace Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos His Excellency Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios Major Archbishop of Trivandrum Archbishop of Thiruvalla Major Archiepisocpal Curia Major Archbishop’s House Pattom, Trivandrum - 695 004 Ph : 0471-2541642 Fax : 0471-2541635 E-mail : [email protected] Archbishop’s House, P.B. No.4, Marygiri Thiruvalla - 689 101 Ph : 0469-2701319, 2730620 Fax : 0469-2600822 E-mail : [email protected] Archbishop’s House Pattom, Trivandrum - 695 004 Ph : 0471-2541642 Fax : 0471-2541635 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas His Excellency Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios His Excellency Dr. Abraham Mar Julios Bishop of Bathery Bishop of Mavelikara Bishop of Muvattupuzha Catholic Bishop’s House, Bathery, Dharmapitam, Wayanad - 673 592 Ph : 04936-220207, Fax : 04936-221287 E-mail : [email protected] Amalagiri Catholic Bishop’s House Punnamoodu, Mavelikara - 690 101 Ph : 0479-2344081, 2344082, Fax : 0479-2344083 E-mail : [email protected] Catholic Bishop’s House Vazhappilly, Mudavoor P.O., Muvattupuzha - 686 669 Ph : 0485-2812650, 2814191, Fax : 0485-2814346 E-mail : [email protected] His Excellency Dr. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom His Excellency Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios His Excellency Dr. Philopose Mar Stephanos Bishop of Pathanamthitta Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum Auxiliary Bishop of Thiruvalla Santhome Catholic Bishops House Nannuvadkkade P.O, Pathanamthitta - 689 645 Ph: 0468-2223100, Fax: 0468-2223100 E-mail : [email protected] Major Archbishop’s House Pattom, Trivandrum - 695 004 Ph : 0471-2541642, Fax : 0471-2541635 E-mail: [email protected] Archbishop’s House, P.B. No.4, Marygiri Thiruvalla - 689 101 Ph : 0469-2701319, 2730620, Fax : 0469-2600822 E-mail : [email protected] 11 1. P.O.C. Commission Chairman Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Vice-Chairman Abp. Dr. Mar Joseph Perumthottam i. Pastoral Training Institute Vice-Chairman Bp. Dr. Joseph Kariyil Secretary Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara ii. Talent Publications Society Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD Dean of Studies, PTI P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025 Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722 Mob: 9895840991 E-mail: [email protected] iii. POC Publishing House Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur General Editor, POC P.B.No. 2251,Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025 Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722, Mob: 9946725453 Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakken Managing Editor, Talent P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025 Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722 Mob: 9447285077 E-mail: [email protected] iv. PCDT Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara President P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025 Phone : 9447743334 e-mail: [email protected] 2. Commission for Religious Chairman Abp. Dr. Mar Joseph Perumthottam Vice Chairman Abp. Dr. Francis Kallarakal Bp. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Grimbald Lenthaparambil St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri, Aluva-683 102 Mob: 9526836675 Email: [email protected] 12 Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Thomas Sajeev Thekkecharuvil OIC Bethany Ashram, Nalanchira Trivandrum-695 015 Mob: 9447657710 Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS MCBS Provincial House Kolladu-686 029, Kottayam Dt. Mob: 9447710488 0481-2340195, 2340840 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Sr. Vimal Jose CMC St. Joseph’s B.Ed College Kovilvattom Road Ernakulam, Kochi-682 035 Mob: 9745914503, Email: [email protected] v. KCMS President Rev. Fr. Francis Kodiyan MCBS MCBS Provincial House Kolladu-686 029, Kottayam Dt. Mob: 9447710488 0481-2340195, 2340840 E-mail: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Sr. Bindu Antony ASSA Secretary, KCMS P.O.C., P.B.No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025 Mob: 9446520519 E-mail: [email protected] 3. Bible Commission Chairman Abp. Dr. Maria Callist Soosa Pakiam Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Joseph Kallarangatt Bp. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios Secretary Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil P.O.C., P. B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Ph: 0484-2805897, 2805722 Mob: 9496282032 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Cyprian E. Fernandez Holy Family Church Asramam Kollam-691 002 Mob: 9446044385 Email: [email protected] vi. Kerala Catholic Bible Society Chairman Abp. Dr. Maira Callist Soosa Pakiam Secretary Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil 4. Media Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Sebastian Thekethecheril Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas Bp. Dr. Mar Jose Puthenveettil Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. George Madathiparampil, Major Archiepiscopal Curia Mount St. Thomas, P.B. No. 3110, Kakkanad, Kochi-682 030, Mob: 9744576243 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Dr. Abraham Joseph, Kanivu, 7/21-1, NLRA 5A Neerazhi Lane, Ulloor, Trivandrum-695 011, Ph: 0471-2531053 2530023, Mob: 9388938861, Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakken P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Ph: 0484-2806227, Mob: 9447285077 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Antony Vibin Velikkakath Lucky Star Building, Market Road, Kochi-682 035 Mob: 9995440023, Email: [email protected] 13 vii. Vatican Radio Regional Director Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakken 5. Family Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath Vice- Chairmen Bp. Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal Bp. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos Joint Secretary Rev. Msgr. Chacko Thadathil Catholic Bishop’s House, St. Peter’s Junction, Pathanamthitta 689645 Mob: 9447564354 Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722 Mob: 9495213782 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Antony John Puliparambil St. Joseph Pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri Aluva – 683 102 Mob: 9495254550 Email: [email protected] ix. Marian Singles viii. Pro-Life Samithy President Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil General Secretary Mr. George F. Xavier Mundakkal East, Kollam-691 001 Ph: 0474-3246757 Mob: 9387676757 E-mail: [email protected] President Ms. Mary Maleparambil Maleparambil House Mandapam P.O. Chittarickal – 671 326 Mob: 9496452944 6. Laity Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas Bp. Dr. Bosco Puthur Joint Secretary Adv. V.C. Sebastian Valliamthadathil House Santhigiri Residency, Podimattam Palampra-686 518, Kanjirapally Kottayam (Dt), Mob: 9447355512 Email: [email protected] 14 Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. William Rajan St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri Aluva-683 102 Mob: 9947892723 Email: [email protected] Secretary Adv. Antony M Ambat Justitia, Mankuzhy Road Edappally Toll, Kochi-682024 Mob: 9846139292 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Dr. Thomaskutty Panachickal Panachickal 303, Sharon Garden Kottamukal, Nalanchira Trivandrum-695 015 Mob: 9447929541 E-mail: [email protected] x. Kerala Catholic Federation President Mr. P.I. Lazar Puthur House, Thiruvenkidom, Guruvayoor-680 101, Mob: 9847485628 E-mail: [email protected] Secretary Mr. Nelson Fernandez General Secretary, KCF Goodnews, Ezhilode Kunhimangalam, Kannur 670 309 Mob: 9446311147 E-mail: [email protected] 7. Women’s Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal Bp. Dr. Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil Joint Secretary Dr. Giby Geevarughese Thokkatt, S.N. Nagar, MERA-20, Mannanthala Trivandrum-695 015, Mob: 9495827905, E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Ms. Delcy Luckachan Nambiaparambil House, Kaloor P.O., Muvattupuzha 686 668, Mob: 9495676142, E-mail: [email protected] Secretary Prof. Dr. Thara Johns Villothu House Kottakunnu, S. Bathery 673 592 Mob: 9249861585, 04936-221585 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Sr. Jose Maria CSST St.Teresa’s Provincialate, BMC Post, Chembumukku, Kakkanad – 682 021, Mob: 9048125647, E-mail: [email protected] 8. Education Commission Chairman Abp. Dr. Mar Andrews Thazhath Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios Bp. Dr. Vincent Samuel Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. George Madathiparambil Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad Kochi-682030 Mob: 9744576243 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Dr. Edward Edezhath Kumbalanghy P.O., Kochi–682 007 Ph: 0484 – 2240081, 2248185 Mob: 9447078533, Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Jacob Palackappilly P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722 Mob: 9446930716 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Dr. Thomaskutty Kaimalayil Kaimalayil House Alayamon, Anchal-691320 Kollam, Mob: 9447332256 E-mail: [email protected] 15 xi. Kerala Catholic Students League General Director Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly Vicar, Church of Our Lady of Dolours Madavana, Panangad 682 506 Mob:9846150512 Ph: 0484-2807289(O), 2422192 E-mail: [email protected] President Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil Puthukkattil House North of SBHSS Changanassery – 686 101 Ph: 0481-2429328, Mob: 9447601426 E-mail: [email protected] Organizer Mr. Jose Anoob M.S. Mandothuparambil House House No. 19/680 A, P.D. Road Palluruthy, Kochi-682 006 Ph: 0484-2237600, Mob: 9895920494 E-mail: [email protected] 9. Social Harmony & Vigilance Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios Vice-Chairman Bp. Dr. Stanley Roman Secretary Rev. Fr. Josey Ponnambal MSFS P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Mobile: 9497094385 Email: [email protected] 10. Youth Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Joseph Pandarasseril Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios Bp. Dr. Vincent Samuel Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kaippanplackal Pastoral Centre, P.B.No 22, Kanjirappally-686507, Kottayam Dt, Ph: 9495835693 Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC P.O.C., P.B. No. 2251 Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Mob: 8281685445 Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Paul Sunny St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Carmelgiri, Aluva-683 102, Mob: 9497269110 Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalackal Malankara Catholic Church Ayoor, Kollam-691 533 Mob: 9745578123, 9447473216 E-mail: [email protected] xii. Kerala Catholic Youth Movement President Mr. Renny Raj Thevarthottathil House Thannithode, Konni (via) Pathanamthitta-689699 Ph: 09496326742 E-mail: [email protected] 16 General Secretary Mr. Lorence P.F. Padamattummel House Edavilangu Kodungallur 680 671 Mob: 9744477994 E-mail: [email protected] xiii. CLC Promoter Rev. Fr. Roy Joseph Nedumthanam CLC, St. Peter’s Church Nileswar, Kasargode-671314 Ph: 0467-2282572, Mob:09902274174 E-mail: [email protected] President Mr. Jojo George V. Valluvassery House, Chilavanoor Road Kadavanthra, Kochi-682 020 Mob: 9847937778 Email: [email protected] Secretary Mr. Martin Joseph Secretary, CLCManickathan House Perumattom, Okkal-683 550 Mob: 9447981542 E-mail: [email protected] 11. Labour Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Jose Porunnedom Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Stanley Roman Bp. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom Secretary Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil KLM State Office, Workers Facilitation Centre Kalabhavan Cross Road, Ernakulam, Kochi-682 018 Mob:9447615196, Ph: 0484-2370046 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Mr. Joseph Jude SRA 80 Pipe Line Road Trikakkara, Kochi-682021, Mob: 9847237771 E-mail: [email protected] xiv. Kerala Labour Movement President Mr. Joy Gothuruth Chakkalakkal House Gothuruthy-683 516 Mob: 9495505930 E-mail: [email protected] Secretary Mr. Shaju Antony Pulikodan House Aranattukara, Thrissur–680618 Ph : 9447084174, 0487– 2384174 E-mail:[email protected] xv. Kerala Catholic Industrial Training Institutes’ Management Association President Rev. Bro. K.T. Mathew Principal, Jayamatha Pvt ITI Trivandrum-695 015 Mobile: 9446357772 Email:[email protected] General Secretary Rev. Fr. Betson Thukkuparambil St. Mary’s Pvt ITI Valliyode, Mudappallur, Palakkad-678705 Mobile: 9544200104 Email: [email protected] 17 12. Justice, Peace & Development Commission Secretary Rev. Fr. George Vettikattil Secretary, KCBC JPD Commission/ Director, KSS Forum Amos Centre, Adichira Thellakom, Kottayam-686016 Mob: 9447142590 E-mail: [email protected] Chairman Abp. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan Bp. Dr. Mar George Madathikandathil Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Varghese Mattamana Major Archbishop’s House Pattom, Trivandrum–695 004 Mob: 8281149074 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Thomas Tharayil St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri, Aluva-683 102 Ph: 0484 – 2603705, 9895159335 E-mail: [email protected] xvi. KSS Forum xvii. Ecological Mission Chairman Abp. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos SecretaryRev. Fr. George Vettikattil Episcopal Advisor Bp. Dr. Abraham Mar Julios xviii. Jesus Fraternity xix. Sarathi xx. Care Homes & Special Schools Director Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveettil P.O.C., P.B.No.2251, Palarivattom, Kochi-682025 Ph: 9847011040 E-mail: [email protected] Director Rev. Fr. Varghese Karippery Maniyamkuzhy, Karayamparambu Azhakam, Ernakulam-683 577 Mob:9447269995 Email: [email protected] Director Rev. Fr. Roy Mathew Vadakkel Pastoral Centre Kanjirapally-686 507 Mob: 9447087271 Email: [email protected] 13. Commission for SC/ST/BC Chairman Bp. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos Bp. Dr. Mar Jacob Muricken 18 Secretary Rev. Fr. Joseph Kuttikattil Secretary, Commission for SC/ST/BC Kanjirappara, Devagiri-686 555 Mob: 9447391987 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Varghese Mattamana, Major Archbishop’s House Pattom, Trivandrum–695 004 Mob: 8281149074 E-mail: [email protected] xxi. DCMS President Mr. James Elavunkal Veroor, Changanacherry-686 104 Mob: 9847887580 E-mail: [email protected] Secretary Mr. Shibu Joseph Bhoothakuzhy, Pampady-686 521 Kottayam Dt., Mob: 9846754565 Email: [email protected] 14. Temperance Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios Bp. Dr. Joseph Karikkassery Secretary Rev. Fr. Antony T. James Secretary, KCBC Temperance Commission St. Joseph’s Pont. Seminary Carmelgiri, Aluva-683 103 Mob: 9847796995 E-mail: [email protected] 15. Theology Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Abraham Mar Julios Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Vincent Samuel Bp. Dr. Mar Pauly Kannookadan Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Sibi Pulickal St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Mangalapuzha, Aluva-683 102 Mob. 9447459405 Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Shaji Jerman St. Joseph’s pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri, Aluva-683102 Ph: 0484 2603665, Mob: 9495701299 Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Mathai Kadavil OIC Bethany Navajyothy Provincial Ashram Desom, Aluva-683 103 Tel: 0484-2605360, 2603464 Mobile: 9446276372 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Dr. Cheriyan Kottayil St. Mary’s Malankara Major Seminary Bethany Hills, Nalanchira Trivandram–695 015, Mob: 9605536290 Email: [email protected] 16. Health Commission Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos Bp. Dr. Joseph Karikkassery Secretary Rev. Fr. Sunil Chiriankandath Jubilee Mission Medical College Trichur-680 005 Mob: 9142052400 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Saju Varghese Kanichukunnath Director, Don Bosco Hospital N.Paravur – 683 513 Mob: 9846577382 Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Sr. Lilly Thomas DM, DM Convent , Anchal, Kollam- 691 306 Mob: 9497132277 Email: [email protected] Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Jacob Manathodath 19 xxii. CHAI Kerala President Rev. Fr. Sunil Chiriankandath Secretary Rev. Sr. Elsitta CMC Carmel Hospital Asokapuram, Alwaye-683 101 Mob: 9446744607 E-mail: [email protected] 17. Vocation Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Vincent Samuel Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom Bp. Dr. Mar Jacob Muricken Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Grimbald Lenthaparambil St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Carmelgiri, Aluva-683 102 Mob: 9526836675 Email: [email protected] Secretary Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB Don Bosco, Vennala, Kochi-682 028 Mob: 9400218246 E-mail: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Joseph Poovathumtharayil Catholicate Centre, Pattom P.O., Trivandrum-695 004 Mob: 9747077431 E-mail: [email protected] xxiii. Cherupusha Mission League Rev. Fr. Mathew Mulayolil Director, CML Sandesa Bhavan P.B.No. 70, Thalassery-670 101 Mob: 9447482008 Email: [email protected] President Mr. Jose Michael Puthiyaparambil Perinchamkutty P.O., Murickassery Idukki-685 604, Ph: 04868-263546, Mob: 9744118161 E-mail: [email protected] 18. Charismatic Movement Commission Chairman Bp. Dr. Mar Raphael Thattil Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios Bp. Dr. Joseph Karikkassery Secretary Rev. Fr. Sebastian Karukappilly EMMAUS, HMT Colony-683503 Mob: 8089248253, 8547945485, 2540818 Email: [email protected] xxiv. Kerala Service Team Chairman Rev. Fr. Sebastian Karukappilly 20 Secretary Mr. Janse Zacharias Kakkattil House, Valavoor-686 635, Kottayam Dt., Mob: 9447367759 E-mail: [email protected] 19. Dialogue and Ecumenism Secretary Rev. Fr. Roby Kannanchira CMI Director, Chavara Cultural Centre Monastery Road, Near South Railway Station Kochi–682 011 Mob: 9447824575, Ph: 2377443 E-mail: [email protected] Chairman Abp. Dr. Mar Mathew Moolakkatt Vice-Chairmen Bp. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan Bp. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios Joint Secretary Rev. Dr. Varghese Madathikkunathu, St. Mary’s Malankara Major Seminary, Bethany Hills, Nalanchira, Trivandram– 695 015 Mob: 9495519728, Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Joseph Sugun Leon Bishop Catalani Centre, Anjili Road, Sasthri Junction, Kollam - 691001, Mob: 9746970275, Email: [email protected] Joint Secretary Rev. Fr. Cherian Karukaparambil C/o Archbishop’s House, P.B. No. 20 Changanacherry 686 101 Mobile 09745421320 Email: [email protected] 20. INFAM Secretary Rev. Fr. Joseph Ottaplackal INFAM Sandesha Bhavan Thalassery-670101. Ph: 0490-2321010 Mob: 9447370790 E-mail: [email protected] Episcopal Advisor Bp. Dr. Mar Mathew Arackal 21. Kerala Catholic Council President Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Vice President Mr. Liju George Kaliyanthanathu, Vadasserikara, Pathanamthitta-689 662 Mob: 9447454790 [email protected] Secretary General Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara Secretary Prof. M.R. Joseph Mattathil House Ponoth Road, Kochi – 682 017 Mob: 9895252755 [email protected] Joint Secretary Dr. Mary Regina Pallath House, Krishnapuram, Ollukkara, Thrissur Mob: 9446130239, [email protected] Vice President Mr. J. Sahayadas Blessed Home, Kattakode P.O. Trivandrum-695 572 Mob: 9656361721 [email protected] Joint Secretary Adv. Ghosh Yohannan Erattiyanikal, Pampakuda-686 667 Muvattupuzha, Mob: 9388868244, 0485-2274984 [email protected] Vice President Prof. Leena Jose T. Thoompumkal Amalagiri P.O., Kottayam-686 561 Mob: 9446758027 [email protected] Treasurer Mr. A.O. Augustine Ambazhathinamattam House, Vazhathop, Thadiampad, Idukki Colony 685 602, Mob: 9447826612, [email protected] 21 CHURCH AT A GLANCE ARCHDIOCESES DIOCESES TOTAL ECCLESIASTICAL UNITS 9 22 31 SYRO-MALABAR 5 13 LATIN 2 12 SYRO-MALANKARA 2 8 10 4 BISHOPS 18 30 48 DIOCESAN 7 22 29 AUXILIARIES 6 1 7 RETIRED 4 7 11 TITULAR 1 - 1 CARDINAL 2 2 2 BISHOPS PRIESTS 22 6 SISTERS STAFF M.Sc Psycology Batch 2013-2015 23 Theology Course for Sisters 2013-2014 Theology Course 2013-2014 Psycology Course 2013-2014 24 Chronicle Report JANUARY January 10, Thursday CHAI Kerala Board Meeting POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 A joint meeting of the board members of CHAI Kerala and the Akshaya Project was held at the St. Mark Hall of the POC. The attendees consisted of sevendistrict co-ordinators, assistant programme manager of the project, regional co-ordinator and CHAI Kerala board members. All the district co-ordinators, who participated in the meeting, conducted a powerpoint presentation detailing the functioning of Akshaya Project during the last 9 months. The meeting came to an end at 4 pm with Rev. Fr. Anto Chalissery expressing the vote of thanks. January 13, Sunday Labour Commission Meeting The State general council meeting of labour forums in view of enlivening the activities of KLM’s State level labour forums namely Tailoring Workers’ Forum and Domestic Workers’ Forum was held at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Mr. Shaju Antony, the General Secretary, KLM, presided over the meeting. Five office bearers of the existing regional Committees of each Forum participated in the meeting. Rev. Fr. Jaison Vadasserry, the Director, Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary WIF, Mr. Babu Thannikott, President KTWF and Ms Alice Antony, President KDWF led the classes. The new office bearers were elected during the meeting. The meeting, which started at 10.30 am, was concluded at 2 pm. January 17, Thursday Prof. Dr. Thara Johns, Women’s Commission Secretary Prof. Dr. Thara Johns from Battery diocese took charge as the new Secretary of KCBC Women’s Commission. Prof. Thara Johns Villoth is presently the Head of Malayalam Department at St. Mary’s College, Sultan Battery. She also serves the diocese as the Pastoral council member and as the President of Mathru Jyothis. Formerly, she was the Treasurer of KCBC Women’s Commission. January 17, Thursday Women’s Commission Meeting KCBC’s Women’s Commission Meeting, presided over by its Chairman, Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas, started at 10 am at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. The Bishop presented memento to Ms Annie Rodnie, the former Commission 26 JANUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Secretary, as a gesture of gratitude for her service. The new office bearers took charge during the meeting. Prof. Dr. Thara Johns (Battery Diocese) as the Secretary, Ms Jane Ancel Francis (Kollam) as the Joint Secretary, Ms Mary Augustine (Kothamangalam) as the Joint Secretary, Ms Mary Loretto (Latin Archdiocese Trivandrum) as the Joint Treasurer are the new officer bearers. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC, Ms Annie Rodni, Ms Jane Ansel, Prof. Dr. Thara Johns and Ms Sincy Parammel rendered speeches. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, the Director Jesus Fraternity, conversed with the representatives. The meeting was concluded with a prayer at 3.30 pm. January 20, Sunday Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Labour Commission Secretary Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil of Trissur Archdiocese took charge as the new secretary of KCBC Labour Commission. Fr. Jaison Vadassery, the former secretary, handed over the respective official documents to the new secretary. Bishop Joseph Porunnedom, the Chairman of the Commission, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC, Mr. Joy Gothuruth, State President KLM and Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary WIF were present in the function. Fr. George Thomas has been rendering services as the Director of St. Joseph Mental Healthcare, Pullazhi and as the Director of Labour Commission of Thrissur Archdiocese. January 23, Wednesday Vocation Commission Executive Meeting The executive meeting was held under the aegis of KCBC Vocation commission at St. Paul’s hall of the POC from 10 am to 2.30 pm to discuss the mode of the Vocation week celebrations by Kerala Catholic Church. Various topics were put to discussion during the meeting, presided over by Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB. The birthday of the Director was also celebrated during the meeting. January 25, Friday Textbook Committee Meeting Fiftieth discussion meeting of textbook committee was commenced at 4.30 pm at St. Peter’s Hall. The meeting, presided over by Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, began with a prayer by Anu Pinheiro. Textbook of 8 standard was put to discussion. It was decided to revise the text as the content fell short of prescribed standard. 1 and 6 chapters were entrusted with teachers Bini and Sindhu. Soft copy of 8 standard was sent to the teachers. The meeting was concluded at 6 pm with prayer. January 26, Saturday Benhur Film Club: Film Festival Under the aegis of KCBC Media Commission, the Benhur film club screened its 11 film, ‘Amadeus’ at Mother Teresa Auditorium at 6 pm. All film club members had arrived to watch the film and there were discussion and input sessions about the film. January 27, Sunday KCBC Media Award His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil, the Chairman of the Media Commission inaugurated the Media Award Ceremony 2012 of KCBC Media Commission. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting. The Literary Award was presented to Mr. Sebastian Pallithode, Media Award to Mr. Benny P. Nayarambalam, Philosophical Award to Rev. Dr. Albert Nambiaparambil CMI and Youth Talent 27 JANUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Award to Mr. Franco Simon. The Samskriti Award was presented to noted poet Ms. Vijayalakshmi, while Gurupooja Awards were given away to Rev. Fr. Jose Thachil, Prof. K.J. Sebastian Cleetus and Mr. Joseph Vyttila. Rev. Fr. Joseph Nicholas and Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan delivered speeches on the occasion. January 30, Thursday Youth Commission Meeting His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Mar Joseph Pandarasseril, the Chairman of KCBC Youth Commission inaugurated KCBC Youth Commission meeting at St. Mark’s Hall of the POC. Bishops Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil and Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios, the Vice Chairmen, were present. During the function, the newly elected office bearers of KCYM for the year 2013, took charge of their respective offices, taking the oaths. The slogan ‘For the total progress of faithful youth’ was chosen for the activities of KCYM for the year 2013, while environment and man, security of women and children, against corruption were chosen as the chief realms of action. ‘Youvanam’ the bulletin of the movement was released during the function. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Mr. Shijo Mathew, the State President, Mr. Rennyraj Thevarthottathil, the General Secretary, Mr. I.M. Antony, the Vice President, Rev Fr. Jose Kottayil, the State Director, Mr. Sony Pavelil, the former Director and Mr. Cyriac Chazhikkadan, the former State General Secretary delivered speeches. State Level Office-bearers namely, Ms. Mary Jemsy, Mr. Binoj Alosius, Mr. Jomon Mathilakath, Ms. Elseena Joseph, Ms. Reena Rajan and Mr. Bijo P Babu led the programmes. 28 FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 February 3, Sunday Jesus Fraternity Directors’ Meeting The meeting of Jesus Fraternity Seminary Directors started at 11 am at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC with a prayer led by Sr. Rosy Edasserry. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil delivered the welcome speech. Annual Report on the observance of mission in prison day, prison visit and other mission activities was presented during the meet. ‘Pulari’ the publication of Jesus Fraternity was first published in 2011 by a group of brothers from Carmelgiri led by Rev. Fr. Augustine John. ‘Thadavarasangeetham’ was done by brothers at Mangalapuzha Seminary. This year’s Pulari was entrusted with Trivandrum Malankara Seminary, while Thadavarasangeetham was taken over by Vadavathoor Seminary. The meeting came to an end by 1 pm. February 5, Tuesday POC Community One-day Outing A joint picnic of the POC staff and the theology students was organized on Tuesday 5 February. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, Rev. Fr. Joly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil and Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil led the Picnic teams. Main picnic spots were Peechi Dam and Palakkad Malampuzha Fantasy Park. Trip, which started at 8.30, am ended at 10.30 pm. The one-day outing provided joyful memories and relaxation to all the members of the POC community. February 9, Saturday KCSL Executive Committee Meeting February 9, Saturday Episcopal Ordination of Mar George Madathikandathil The Executive Committee Meeting of KCSL was held at the POC and Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil, the State President presiding over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly, the General Director, delivered the welcome address. Mr. Jose Anoop M.S., presented the report. The main agenda consisted of the appraisal of Art Festival, preparation for leadership training camp, discussions on subjects of studies for the next year, revision of guidelines and regional level programmes. Mr. Sabu Thankachan, the General Treasurer, extended thanks, and the meeting ended at 2 pm. Mar George Madathikandathil was ordained as the third bishop of Kothamangalam diocese. Major Archbishop Mar George Cardinal Alencherry was consecrator. The Holy Mass had Mar George Madathikandathil as the main celebrant, while Archbishops Mar Andrew Thazhath, Mar Mathew 29 FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Moolakatt and Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, bishops Mar George Punnakkottil, Mar Mathew Annikuzhikkattil and Mar John Vadakkel participated as concelebrants. Archbishop of Thiruvalla Thomas Mar Kurilos delivered the sermon. About forty bishops and three hundred priests from Syro Malabar, Latin and Malankara rites participated. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Director and delegates from the POC participated the ceremonies. February 9-10 Saturday-Sunday Labour Commission Meeting The meeting of the office-bearers of the Labour Commission was held at St. Mark Hall of the POC. It was presided over by Mr. Joy Gothuruth, the President of KLM. Main objective of the meeting was to prepare a blueprint of a year’s programme. Rev. Fr. Jaison Vadassery, the former Director of KLM, the present director Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil and other 13 state level office bearers participated. Charts and badges for the year-long programme were prepared. Discussions were held on the modus operandi of the programmes, and on the diocesan level segments and Labour forums. The meeting came to an end at 1 pm on Sunday 10 February. February 10, Sunday KCBC Pro-Life Samithy Meeting All Kerala Pro-life Samithy’s executive meeting was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, the President, presided over the meeting, which began at 10 am. Here are the chief decisions: (1) Conduct a three-day Seminar for Resource Persons from 19 to 21 April. (2) Celebrate Pro-life day (March 25) on diocesan level. (3) Initiate Pro-life cells on diocesan and parish levels. (4) Present a memorandum consisting of the expectations of Pro-life committee to Bishops. (5) Produce a telefilm to propagate pro-life ideologies. The meeting ended at 1 pm. February 11, Monday Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI Declared His Resignation 30 His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI declared that he would step down from his office on 28 February 2013. It was for the first time in the last 600 years that a Pope resigned from his position. He revealed his decision of stepping down FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 due to ill health on World Day of Sick. Pope Benedict XVI, the 266 Pontiff of Catholic Church, was elected in 19 April 2005. February 12, Tuesday Diocesan Catechetical Directors’ Meet A meeting of the diocesan catechetical directors was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatius delivered the inaugural address on the meeting presided over by Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, the Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute, POC, welcomed the guests. Directors from 14 dioceses participated and briefed on the Year of Faith activities in their respective dioceses. It was decided to figure out persons eligible for the KCBC Awards for catechism teachers and to send the form before April 15. It was also fixed to give away the awards on the Catechism Teachers Seminar to take place on 25 May. The meeting also decided that each diocese must make arrangements to participate 10-20 persons as its representatives in the Seminar. Fr. Jolly introduced the courses at the POC, including the new ones. The meeting ended at 12.35 pm with a prayer. February 12, Tuesday Social Harmony and Vigilance Commission Meeting A joint meeting of KCBC Social Harmony and Vigilance Commission’s state level core group and Ernakulam zone, which was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC, was inaugurated by its Chairman Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatius at 10 am. Mr. Jacobi, the news editor of Deepika Kochi, delivered the keynote address and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, delivered the benedictory speech. Rev. Fr. Josey Ponnambal MSFS, the Secretary, Mr. Sabu Jose, Adv. Vincent Panikulangara, Mr. Shaji George, Adv. Jossy Xavier, Mr. Philip Padinjarethil, Adv. K.C. Justin, Ms Sheela, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Thaikkattil and Mr. Shijo Jose delivered speeches. Rev. Fr. Jose Plachikkal was elected as Ernakulam Zone Director and Mr. Shaji George as the Co-ordinator. February 12, Tuesday Diocesan Youth Directors’ Meet A meeting of diocesan youth directors and animators from thirty dioceses in Kerala wsas held at St. Mark Hall of the POC. Bishop Mar Joseph Pandarasseril inaugurated the meeting at 10 am. State Director Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil explained the programme chart for the year 2013. Upholding the slogan ‘Faithful Youth for the Total Progress’, the organization would strive for the objectives like man and environment, security of women and children & Against corruption. Mr. Shijo Mathew, the President, presided over the meeting. Mr. Rennyraj, General Secretary, Ms. Mary Jemsy, Vice President, Mr Bijo P. Babu, Treasure and Sr. Jismitha SD, Assitant Director spoke on the occasion. 31 FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 February 14, Thursday Catholic Engineering College Managers’ Meet A meeting of Catholic engineering college managers was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC and Bishop Stanley Roman, the Chairman of KCBC Education Commission, inaugurated the meeting. Representatives from 12 engineering colleges participated in the gathering, which discussed the expectations of the Church in the field and the current issues that are being faced. Mons. Philip Njaralakkatt and Rev Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil, the Secretary of Education Commission led the discussions. February 15, Friday Catholic Corporate Mangers’ Meet His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Stanley Roman, the Chairman of KCBC Education Commission, inaugurated the Catholic Education Corporate Managers’ Meet at the St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. During the Meet, it was decided to assess the novel trends in public educational field and to formulate guidelines on its basis, to initiate new programmes in view of enhancing the standard, to bring the positive interventions in aided educational field to the public attention and to ensure the teachers’ training. A committee was formed to make the Government aware of the illegal interference of Education Department and to realize speedy solutions. February 16, Saturday Farewell Meeting of Fr. Joseph Nicholas The members of the POC family gave Rev. Fr. Joseph Nicholas, who had been KCBC Media Commission Secretary for 5 years, a warm send off. The farewell meeting commenced with a prayer by Ms Mary. Rev. Sr. Rosy Edassery welcomed the guests. Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur and Rev. Sr. Tessy felicitated on the occasion. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Director of POC and Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, thanked Rev. Fr. Joseph for his services and wished him all the best for his future. Ms Sani Joseph extended thanks. Rev. Fr. Joseph Nicholas has his new office as the parish priest at St. Sebastian’s Church Vadakara in Kozhikode Diocese. February 19, Tuesday Temperance Commission Meeting The meeting of KCBC Temperance Commission was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 11.30 am. The Church Guidelines for the de-addiction programme is the official document of the Kerala Catholic Church, which is also approved by KCC (Kerala Catholic Council) meeting and KCBC Meeting. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Sebastian Thekkethecheril, the Chairman, Rev. Fr. Antony T. J., the Secretary, Rev. Fr. Paul Karachira, Sr. Jovita, Mr. Thomas Cherian, Mr. Sunny Paikkatt, Mr. Roy Murikkolil, Smt. Sophy Thomas, Mr. K.V. Cleetus, Mr. Antony Panthallokkaran, Mr. Francis Vithayathil, Mr. K.G. Paulose and Mr. Mathukutty participated in the meeting. 32 FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 February 22, Friday Holy Mass for the Holy Father On 22 February, on the feast of Chair of St. Peter the Apostle a special Holy Mass was offered for the Holy Father. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil was the main celebrant of the solemn Eucharistic celebration. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil delivered the sermon. February 23, Saturday POC Home Day Celebrations The POC Home Day Celebrations began at 9.30 am with a solemn Mass, offered by Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, the President of the KCBC. Later Archbishop Mar Thazhath inaugurated the public meeting at 11 am. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Director of POC and Deputy Secretary General of KCBC presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, the Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute welcomed the guests, while Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur, the General Editor of POC Publications extended vote of thanks. The POC Annual Report 2012 was released by the Archbishop handing the first copy to Ms Rosakutty Abraham, Executive Committee Member of the POC. PTI students, Pastoral Theology sisters and POC Staff staged various programmes. February 23-24 Saturday-Sunday KLM Leaders’ Meeting Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC, inaugurated the Kerala Labour Movement Leaders’ two days workshop at St. Pauls’ Hall of the POC. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, the state President, presided over the meeting. Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary of Workers India Federation, Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Director of KLM, Mr. Shaju Antony, Mr. Gheevarghese Kulathinal, Mr. Mathai Maruthur, Mr. Sebastian Palamparambil, Mr. Babu Thannikkot, Ms Alice Antony, Mr Shooranadu Gregory and Mr. A.J. Sabu rendered speeches. Ms Shobha John (Kochi) was elected as State Secretary of KLM Women’s Forum. Office bearers of Labour Forums and Women’s Forums from 25 dioceses in Kerala participated in the meeting. February 27, Wednesday Jesus Fraternity Diocesan Directors’ Meeting A meeting of Jesus Fraternity Diocesan Directors was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 11 am. Rev. Fr. Benny Tharappel, Director of Ernakulam zone initiated the meet with a prayer. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, the State Director 33 FEBRUARY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 welcomed the guests. A detailed class followed it on Jesus Fraternity delivered by its former director Rev. Fr. Alexander Kureekkattil. The attendees expressed a common opinion that the meeting is to be held twice in a year. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil thanked all. The meeting ended at 1 pm. Seventeen persons attended the meeting. February 28, Thursday Pope Benedict XVI Resigned A Eucharistic adoration was conducted at POC chapel for Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down from his office. All the members of POC took part in the adoration. They thanked God for the blessings showered upon the Church through His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. February 28, Thursday Bible Apostolate Directors’ Meeting 34 A meeting of Bible Apostolate Directors was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. The meeting was presided over by Bishop Mar George Punnakottil and it was commenced at 10 am. Rev. Fr. Sebastian Namamattathil led the inaugural prayer. Rev. Fr. Sam Shine welcomed the guests while Rev. Fr. Joshy Mayyattil, the Secretary, presented the Report. Sr. Nima CTC presented the accounts of the Bible Festival and Logos Quiz 2012. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil announced that the Bible Commission is being registered as a Trust. He also added that the Diocesan Bible Directors will be the Trust members accordingly and one representative will be the member of Managing Committee. The Bible week this year will be from 19 to 26 May. It was discussed on the possibility of organizing a One-day workshop on Bible based literary activity and selecting 5 teenagers with a flair for literature from each diocese to take part in the workshop. The meeting came to an end by 12.15 pm. MARCH March 1, Friday Prayer for the Election of New Pontiff POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 A special prayer session for the election of new Pope was initiated immediately after the Holy Mass as per the instruction given by KCBC. The daily prayer was meant to implore God to bless the Church with a wise and holy Pope, capable of leading the Church amidst the challenges that the world offers. March 1-3, Friday-Sunday Temperance Commission Resource Team Camp His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignatius, Vice Chairman of the Temperance Commission inaugurated the Three-day camp organized by the Commission for the resource team. The meeting held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC and it was presided over by Rev. Fr. Antony T James, the State General Secretary. A state level resource team was formed under the name SMS (Share the Mission Successfully) as a part of fighting alcoholism in Christian spirit. Adv. Charly Paul was chosen as the Co-ordinator of the State-level resource team consisting on 51 members. It was also decided to organize Diocesan level resource teams and provide them formation. March 4, Monday Care Homes Diocesan Directors’ Meeting A meeting of Care Homes Diocesan Directors was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. The meeting was presided over by Bishop Stephan Athipozhiyil, Chairman of Justice, Peace and Development Commission. Rev. Fr. Romance Antony, JPD Commission Secretary, welcomed the guests. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, delivered the felicitation speech. Rev. Fr. Lawrence Thaikattil, ACCH Secretary, explained the objectives of the organization. Rev. Fr. Roy Vadakkel, the Treasurer, explicated the activities of the existing care homes. It was decided to commence care home chapter. Six zonal co-ordinators were elected during the meeting. Rev. Fr. James Champakkara from Mananthavady Diocese, Rev. Fr. Lawrence from Thrissur Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Vincent Naduvileparambil from Verapoly Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Mathew from Palai Diocese, Rev. Fr. Sebastian Santhosh Pulikkal from Alleppey Diocese and Rev. Fr. Joy Samuel from Punalur Diocese are the newly elected. The meeting came to an end by 12.30 pm. March 7-10, Friday-Sunday FIDES: Year of Faith Three-days Seminar His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Mar Bosco Puthur, the Curia Bishop of Syro-Malabar Church and the Convenor of the Special Committee of the KCBC for Year of Faith, inaugurated ‘FIDES 2013’ three-days seminar. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting, while Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, the Dean of Studies, delivered a speech. The following were the topics and the persons who delivered lectures on those topics. ‘Porta Fidei 35 MARCH POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 and Year of Faith’ Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, ‘Year of Faith and the Threshold of Faith’ by Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, ‘Lumen Gentium and Gaudium et Spes by Rev. Dr. Gregory RB, ‘New Evangelization in the Church’ by Rev. Dr. Jacob Naluparayil, ‘Proclamation of Faith through Sacraments’ by Rev. Dr. Antony Narikulam, “Catechism of the Catholic Church” by Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkatt, ‘Word of God and the Church’ by Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, ‘Religious and Priestly Formation and the Teachings of the Church’ by Rev. Dr. Sebastian Panjikkaran, ‘Prayer in CCC’ by Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, ‘What do I believe?’ by Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiyedath, ‘Lay Apostolate’ by Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, ‘Life of Faith and Morality’ by Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambil, ‘Through the Teachings of the Church’ by Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur. The Study Camp, which began on Friday 7 March came to and end on Sunday 10 at 12 noon. Certificates were given away to the participants. March 9, Saturday KLM Committee Meeting March 13, Wednesday God Blessed us with new Pope Francis 36 Ad-hoc-committee meeting of the KLM was held at St. Mark Hall. Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil presided over the meeting. Mr. Shaju Antony, the State Secretary, Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary of Workers India Federation and other Ad-hoc-committee members spoke during the occasion. A blueprint of the rules was formulated after adequate discussion. The meeting also decided to read out the new rules in front of the members so that they could express their opinions, on whose basis the rules could be enhanced. The Rule thus perfected must be submitted for the approval of Association at the next KCBC meeting. The meeting, which began with a prayer at 9 am ended at 1 pm. The new Pope was elected at the voting held on the second day of conclave, in the afternoon session. 115 cardinals took part in the conclave. Cardinal George Maria Bergoglio was elected as the new Pope. The 76 year old Jesuit took a new name Francis. It is for the first time in history that a person from Latin America became the Pope. From India 5 cardinals participated in the conclave, Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay, Cardinal Telesphore Placidus Toppo, Cardinal Ivan Dias of Vatican Curia, Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, Major Archbishop of Syro-Malabar Church and Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop of SyroMalankara Church. MARCH POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 March 13, Wednesday Bible Class Finale The Finale meeting of the Wednesday Bible Classes held under the aegis of KCBC Bible Commission commenced at 6 pm at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Ms Elizabeth welcomed the guests. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting and distributed the certificates. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Commission Secretary, felicitated during the meeting and Mr. Thomson Pallasserry delivered the vote of thanks. March 15, Friday KCSL Executive Committee Meeting March 15, Friday CHAI Kerala Board Meeting KCSL Executive Committee meeting was held at the POC and with Mr Kuriachan Puthukkattil, the State President presiding over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly, the General Director, delivered the welcome address. Mr. Jose Anoop MS, the organizer, presented the Report. The discussion session consisted of art festival appraisal, preparation for leadership training camp, discussion on the academic subject for the new year, revision of guidelines, regional level programmes etc. The meeting ended at 2 pm. The CHAI Kerala Board meeting started at St. Peter’s Hall, POC, at 11 am. Rev. Fr. Sunil Chirayankandath, the president, delivered the welcome speech. Discussions were held on the eighteen different programmes to be held at the 70 anniversary of the inception of CHAI. At the meeting which began at 2 pm, Bishop Mar Jacob Manathodath, the Chairman of KCBC Health Commission, inaugurated hospital login named Common Purchase newly installed in CHAI website. March 15, Friday Lay Theology Course Finale The finale of lay theology course and the certificate distribution of the course was held at the Little Flower Auditorium of the POC at 6.30pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Secretary General and Director of POC, inaugurated 37 MARCH POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 the Finale Meet of Lay Theology Course, the new initiative of POC in the year 2012-2013. The certificates were distributed to those who completed the course successfully. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, the Prefect of Studies of Pastoral Training Institute at POC, presided over the meeting. Mr. K.J. Joseph delivered the welcome address, Mr. Maver John presented the annual report and Mr. Thomson Pallasserry expressed the vote of thanks. The meeting came to an end wishing all the participants to have deeper faith experience enabling to lead a more profound Christian life. March 16, Saturday Pastoral Training Institute Valedictory Function His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Mar Punnakottil inaugurated the valedictory function of the various courses of the Pastoral Training Institute for the academic year 2012-2013. He also distributed the certificates of the one-year residential theology course, weekend psychology course and religious sisters pastoral course. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Secretary General, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, the Prefect of Studies, Rev. Sr. Tessy Antony, Aby Joseph, Crowly Mathew, Sr. Merina Tintu D’cruz SMDC, Shijo George, Nimisha Antony and Animol spoke during the occasion. March 16, Saturday Kerala Catholic Bible Society Managing Council Meeting 38 The meeting of Kerala Catholic Bible Society Managing Council was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC and Bishop Mar Punnakottil inaugurated the meeting at 10 am. Mr. P.V. Sebastian, the Vice Chairman, welcomed the guests. Mr. Antony Palimattom presented the Reports of Meetings and Activities. Rev. Sr. Nima presented the Accounts. 378 pocket Bibles were freely distributed in nursing colleges under Catholic Management. Adv. Thomstine presented the first draft of the revised statutes. Intensive membership and general body election were also discussed. The meeting came to an end with Rev. Sr. Nima expressing vote of thanks. MARCH POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 March 19, Tuesday The Papal Inauguration of Pope Francis The new Pope Francis, 266 successor of St. Peter, had the inauguration of his new Papacy on 19 March, the Feast Day of St. Joseph, the Patron Saint of the Church. Before the commencement of the Holy Mass, the new Pope received Pallium and the papal ring. Angelo Cardinal Sodano, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, placed the ring on the finger of Pope Francis. Cardinal Jean Louis Tauran handed over the Pallium. The Holy Eucharist in Latin was commenced at the specially prepared altar in St. Peter’s Square at 9.30 am. The New Pope began his sermon thanking God, the leaders of the world and everyone. March 20-21, Wednesday-Thursday KLM Diocesan Directors’ Meeting The meeting of the Kerala Labour Movement diocesan directors was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC, from 20 to 21 March. Directors from 22 dioceses of Kerala and 11 State Office bearers participated in the meeting. The meeting began with a prayer on the eve of 20 March. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, State President presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, the State Director, addresses the representatives. Mr. Joseph Jude, the National General Secretary of Workers India Federation delivered a lecture on KLM ideology, strategy, activities and Workers Forum. The programme on 21 began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Mar Joseph Porunnedom, Chairman of KCBC Labour Commission. In the meeting that followed, had Bishop Mar Joseph Porunnedom as the president and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, gave the keynote address. March 24, Sunday Pro-Life Day Celebrations ‘Pro-life Day’, a day to remind the importance of safeguarding life, was observed on 24 March under the aegis of KCBC Pro-life Committee. This year’s slogan is ‘Life of Faith safeguarding Life’. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil released the Jeevan Newsletter handing it over to Mr. George F. Xavier, the General Secretary Pro-life Committee. Mr Sabu Jose, Project Co-ordinator and Jacob Mathew Pallivathukkal spoke during the occasion. March 26, Tuesday Special School Directors’ Meeting Prof. K.V. Thomas, Union Minister of State for Food & Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs, inaugurated the Chapter of Study Centres for the differently-abled, operated under the aegis of the department of the Special School of the KCBC. Bishop Dr. Stephen Athipozhiyil, the Chairman of Justice, Peace and Development Commission, presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Felix CMI, Rev. Fr. Jacob Palakkappilly, Rev. Fr. Romance Antony, Secretary of Justice, Peace and Development Commission, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Thaikkattil and Rev. Fr. Roy Vadakkel spoke during the meeting. The meeting, which commenced at 10 am at Little Flower Auditorium, POC, came to an end at 1 pm. 39 APRIL POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 April 6, Saturday Health Commission One-day Seminar A Seminar on advanced peripheral vascular and cardiac assessment and wound care principles and Products, under the aegis of Health Commission of the KCBC, was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, inaugurated the Seminar. Rev. Fr. Shaiju Thoppil delivered the welcome address. Mr. Tony Sebastian, Regional Head of INSCOL Health Care, briefed on the Seminar. Prof. Janine Lennox, from Langara College, Canada led classes on Wound Care Principles’ and Products. Prof. Kathryn Morrison from Georgian College, Canada, explained Advanced Peripheral Vascular and Cardiac Assessment. Miss Minnu Jose delivered vote of thanks. Members of Catholic Nursing college and Catholic hospital participated in the Seminar that was held between 10 am and 4 pm. April 7, Sunday KLM Executive Committee Meeting April 9, Tuesday CML Diocesan Directors’ Meeting April 13, Saturday Jerusalem Pilgrimage Meeting April 19, Friday Catholic Hospital Directors’ Meeting 40 The Executive Meeting of Kerala Labour Movement was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, the President KLM, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. George Thomas, Director, delivered a speech on how to steer ahead utilizing the sophisticated technology. The programmes conducted after the executive meeting, were assessed and three months’ account was presented. The committee decided to organize three meetings in 5 zones. The committee also nominated members who would partake in the meetings and take up other responsibilities. 15 executive members and Forum representatives participated. A meeting of CML diocesan directors was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am and Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam inaugurated the meeting. Rev. Sr. Liza Alex SKD led the prayer. Rev. Fr. Mathew Mulayolil welcomed the guests. Rev. Fr. Antony Puthiyaparambil, National Director and Rev. Fr. Mathew Puthiyath, State Vice Director, felicitated. Mr. Benny Muthanatt, Secretary presented the Report, while Diocesan level directors presented the reports of their respective dioceses. Mr. Luke Alex, the General Organizer, thanked all. State level executive meeting was also held along with this meeting. A meeting of the pilgrims partaking in the Jerusalem pilgrimage organized by KCBC Bible Commission was held at St. Paul’s Hall, POC, at 10 am. 80 persons participated in the gathering, which ended at 1 pm. The meeting of the directors of Catholic Hospitals in Kerala held at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC at 10.30 am, was inaugurated by Mar Jacob Manathodath, Chairman of Health Commission. Discussion was held on the APRIL POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 salary scale revised by the State Government. The Bishop demanded that hospital managements must implement the revised conditions on salary scale and service with effect from January 2013. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, delivered the keynote address. Rev. Fr. Sunil Chirayankandath, CHAI Kerala President, welcomed the guests while Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery, the Health Commission Secretary, delivered the vote of thanks. Rev. Fr. Shaiju Thoppil, Rev. Fr. Thomas Vaikathuparambil, Mr. Romid and Adv. George led the classes. The meeting came to an end by 3 pm. April 19-20, Friday-Saturday Pro-Life Leadership Training Camp The leadership training camp of All Kerala Pro-Life Committee commenced at 5 pm at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. Augustine Kalleli, Dr. Abraham Jacob, Dr. Sr. Mary Marceles, Dr. Finto, Rev. Dr. Jose Kottayil, Mr. George F. Xavier, Mr. Sabu Jose, Mr. Yugesh Thomas Pulickan and Mr. Abraham Puthenkulam led the classes. Group Discussion and Panel Discussion followed. Certificates were distributed to the participants. The Camp ended on 21 evening at 4pm. April 24, Wednesday Workshop on Social Commitment A Workshop on the social commitment of Catholic Church organised by the Justice, Peace and Development Commission was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. The Workshop was inaugurated by Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, the Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Ankamaly Archdiocese. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Romance Antony, the JPD Commission Secretary, delivered the introductory speech. Rev. Fr. Paul Thelekkat, Smt. Monamma Kokkad, Mr. C.R. Neelakandan and Dr. Sebastian Paul presented theses. Rev. Dr. Charles Irudhayam of the CBCI presented class on compendium of the social doctrines of the Church. The Workshop ended on 25 April at 4 pm. April 27, Saturday Bible Course Contact Class A Contact class for the participants of Bible Correspondence Course, held at Little Flower Auditorium, POC, commenced at 10 am. Rev. Dr. Theresa SABS led the class on Micah and Zachariah. During the afternoon session, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara gave the certificates to those who completed the Course successfully. 41 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 May 1, Wednesday Ecumenical Meet and Prayer Service An ecumenical meeting and prayer service was held with the intention of ensuring the safety of Archbishops Ibrahim Youhannan Mar Gregorios and Paulose Yasaj and to pray for their freedom. Dr. Yakoob Mar Irenios, Metropolitan of Kochi Malankara Orthodox Diocese, led prayer. Kuriakose Mar Theophilos, President of the Ecumenical Committee of Jacobite Syrian Church, delivered the introductory address. Representatives of Episcopal churches including Jacobite, Orthodox, Catholicate, Mar Thoma and CSI participated in the function. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Robin Kannanchira, Ecumenical Commission Chairman and Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil spoke on the occasion. May 2, Thursday Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, the New Dean of Studies Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, member of Carmelite Province, Manjummel, took charge as the Dean of Studies of Pastoral Training Institute of the POC. The POC family under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, Director of POC, gave the new dean a warm and cordial welcome. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD belongs to Perumpadappu Parish in Cochin Diocese. May 4, Saturday Women’s Commission Annual Meeting Mr. Anto Antony, MP inaugurated the annual meeting of the KCBC Women’s Commission at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC at 10.30 am. Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas, Chairman of the Commission, presided over the 42 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 meeting. Mon. Thomas Panakkal, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Ms. Thara Jose, Secretary, Smt. Jane Ancil, Smt. Sincy Paramel and Smt. Mary Augustine spoke during the occasion. Dr. Liji Jacob led classes on New Media Culture. Smt. Elizabeth Mathew, the winner of Kerala Sabhatharam Award, Smt. Rosakutty Abraham, winner of Excellence Award for Social Services, Smt. Jane Ancil, the new President of INTUC, Women’s Wing and Smt. Annie Rodney, Former KCBC Women Commission Secretary were honoured with vesting of Ponnada. The meeting came to an end at 3.30 pm. May 8, Wednesday POC Executive Committee Meeting POC Executive Committee Meeting was held at 10 am at St. Peter’s Hall under presidentship of Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, Commission Chairman. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, The Secretary of the Commission welcomed the members and presented the Report of former meetings of Executive Committee. Mr. P.C. George, Auditor, presented the Accounts, and the meeting passed the audit report. The meeting was concluded with the prayer led by Rev. Sr. Janet FCC. May 8, Wednesday POC General Body Meeting The General Body Meeting of POC was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the Commission Chairman presided over the meeting. The meeting commenced with the prayer by Smt. Rosakutty Abraham, the Executive Committee Member of POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Commission Secretary, welcomed the attendees. The presentation of the Annual Report 2012 and POC Commission Report followed. Mr. P.C. Varghese presented the accounts. The meeting approved report and audit report. New Executive Members were elected; and they are: Adv. Binu John (Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese), Smt. Lissy Varghese (Trichur Archdiocese), Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil (Jesus Fraternity, Director) and Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD 43 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 (Pastoral Training Institute Dean of Studies). After the discussions, Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor thanked the members. Representatives from 30 dioceses of Kerala, KCBC Commission Secretaries and State Directors of Departments participated. May 9, Thursday KCSL Executive Committee Meeting KCSL Executive Committee Meeting was held at the POC at 6.30 pm. Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil, the president of KCSL presided over the meeting. Awardees for Chev. P.T. Thomas Teacher Award and Best Animator Award were selected from the list of nominations. Mr. K.Y. George (Kozhikode Diocese) won the Chev. P.T. Thomas Teacher Award, while Rev. Sr. Vimal SCJ (Kottayam Diocese) won the Best Animator Award. The programme for Animators’ Meet to be held on 8 June was discussed during the Meet. May 11, Saturday Pro-Life Committee Meeting KCBC Pro-Life Committee meeting was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil presided over the meeting. The Committee decided to submit an appeal consisting of 10 suggestions to the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister, Ministers in Kerala in charge of Health, Finance, Self Governance and Social Welfare. Mr. Jacob Mathew Pallivathukkal, Mr. George F Xavier, Mr, Sabu Jose, Mr, Yugesh Pulickal, Adv. Thomas Thannippara, Mr. Salu Abraham, Adv. K A Jose, Dr. Sr. Mary Marceles, Mr. James Azhchangadan, Sr. Mary George and Mr. Saju Pathanamthitta delivered speeches. May 11, Saturday KCSL Central Council Meeting 44 KCSL central council meeting was held at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC at 10.30 am. Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil, the president of KCSL presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly, the General Director, welcomed the guests. Mr. Jose Anoop, the General Organizer, presented the Report. KCSL office bearers, Master Deljo Davis (Kothamangalam Diocese) the Chairman, Ms. Maria Jesneela Martin (Verapoly Archdiocese) the General Secretary and other student representatives were given a warm reception. New Executive Members, Rev. Sr. Nikhila CSST (Kottapuram), Mr. K. Kosai (Ernakulam-Ankamaly) and Rev. Sr. Franclit FCC (Kothamangalam) were also given reception at the meeting. The existing 4 regions were extended to 6 in view of enhanced operations. 1. Kozhikode: Rev. Fr. Reny Francis, 2. Trissur Rev. Fr. Tom Maliekkal, 3. Ernakulam: Rev. Fr. Joyson Puthusserry, 4. Changanacherry: Rev. Fr. Mathew Varuvelil, 5. Kanjirappally: Rev. Fr. Binny Mathew Kayyaniyil, 6. Thiruvananthapuram: Rev. Fr. Noby Thomas Ayyaneth were elected. MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 May 15, Wednesday Labour Commission HR Policy Meeting The first meeting for the preparation of the Peoples Management Policy as per the instruction of KCBC to ensure the welfare and safety of labourers working in the institutions belonging to the Catholic Church, was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC, at 6pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC, Rev. Fr. George Thomas, Mr. Joy Gothuruth and Mr Joseph Jude participated in the meeting. May 18-19, Thursday-Sunday FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Mar Bosco Puthur, Syro-Malabar Church curia bishop, inaugurated FIDES: Year of Faith four-days seminar at POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Sr. Maggie SMDC and Prof. K.V. Jojy spoke during the function. Lectures on various topics were delivered by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpurapparambil, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Dr. Jacob Naluparayil, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkatt, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. George Danvelil, Rev. Dr. Poly Maniatt, Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiedath, Rev. Dr. Sebastian Panjikkaran, Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambil and Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur. The seminar, which commenced on May 16, ended on 19. May 18, Saturday CHAI Kerala Board Meeting CHAI Kerala board meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 4.30 pm. Rev. Fr. Sunil Chirayankandath delivered the welcome address. Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery, Executive Director, presented the Report. The board members, Rev. Fr. Deljo Puthur CMI (Amala Medical College) and Rev. Sr. Vijaya Tomi CMC, Secretary, who are leaving for abroad, were given a warm send off. Discussions were held about the revision of certain matters. Adv. A P George and Mr. Romid led the discussions. The Meeting came to an end by 7 pm. May 19, Sunday FIDES: Seminar Finale Meeting The finale meeting of the workshop organized by the POC in connection with the celebration of the Year of Faith was held at Little Flower Auditorium at 45 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 12pm. Bishop Mar Raphael Thattil, the Auxiliary Bishop of Trissur Archdiocese, delivered the concluding speech and given away the certificates. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of KCBC presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, the Dean of Studies at POC, Rev. Sr. Ancilla SH, Rev. Sr. Treasa Parekkattil SABS and Prof. Joji spoke during the occasion. May 21, Tuesday Media Commission Directors’ Meeting The meeting of KCBC media commission diocesan directors was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Bishop Joseph Kariyil, Chairman of the Commission presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Fr. Boas Mathew Moolakatt and Rev. Fr. Capistan Lopez spoke. The leaders of media services in dioceses and diocesan media directors participated in the meeting. May 23, Thursday Farewell to Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil May 23, Thursday Labour Commission HR Policy Meeting 46 Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil was given a warm farewell by the POC family for his laudable service rendered as KCBC Education Commission Secretary. The meeting began with a prayer song led by Miss Sany Joseph and Smt. Linu Kuriakose. Smt. Tersita Cleetus welcomed the guests. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, and Rev. Sr. Rossy Edasserry SJSM felicitated. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara thanked Rev. Dr. Philip for his valuable services and wished him all the best for his future endeavours, while also handed over to him a wooden statute of St. Philip. Smt. Annie Joseph delivered the vote of thanks. Rev. Dr. Philip is transferred to St. John Baptist’s Church, Nedungunnam in Changanacherry Archdiocese. The second meeting for the preparation of the HR policy as per the directives of KCBC to ensure the welfare and safety of labourers working in the firm belonging to the Catholic Church, was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 6pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, Rev. Fr. George Thomas, Director KLM, Mr. Joy Gothuruth, President and Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary WIF, participated in the meeting. MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 May 23-24, Thursday-Friday Bible Commission Literary Meet Bishop Mar Bosco Puthur, Syro-Malabar Curia Bishop, inaugurated the Bible Literary Meet titled ‘Dalangal’ organized by KCBC Bible Commission in connection with Bible Week celebration. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, presided overt the meeting. Prof. M.K. Sanu was the Chief Guest. Prof V.G. Thamby lectured on ‘Bible in Literature’, Mr. Shaji Malippara on ‘Bible Friends’, Chev. Dr. Primus Perincherry on ‘Bible in Malayalam Literature’, Mr. Sippy Pallippuaram on ‘Bible in Children’s Literature’, Mr. Benny P Nayarambalam on ‘Bible on Celluloid’, Mr. Sebastian Pallithode on ‘Literary Scope of the Bible’, Rev. Dr. Kuriakose Mundadan on ‘Christian Publications and Literary Acitivities, Mr. Shiju Achandy on ‘Cyber Literature’ and Rev. Sr. Shobha on ‘Literary Life. Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil, the Bishop of Cochin Diocese, presided over the concluding meeting. Mr. P. F. Mathews and Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur felicitated. Melvin K M welcomed the guests while Mr. Shaji Malippara deliverd the vote of thanks. The meeting, which commenced on 23 at 10 am, ended on 24 by 5 pm. May 24, Friday Nursing School Directors’ Meeting The directors’ meeting of nursing schools under Kerala Catholic Church was held under the aegis of KCBC Health Commission at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC 47 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 at 10.30 am. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General inaugurated the meeting. Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery, Secretary KCBC Health Commission, presided over the meeting. Rev. Sr. Depassy welcomed the guests while Rev. Sr. Kanjana delivered the vote of thanks. May 24, Friday Msc Psychology Course Interview Interview and written examination for the two year MSc Psychology course to be started in June 2013 was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of POC, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary Media Commission and Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, the Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute, interviewed the students. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier delivered the welcome speech while Rev. Fr. Jolly introduced POC to the students. Out of 43 students who attended the interview, 27 were selected. May 25, Saturday KCBC Catechism Teachers’ Award Ceremony The award distribution ceremony of KCBC catechism teachers award 2013 for outstanding services rendered in the field of faith training commenced at Mother Teresa Auditorium, POC at 3 pm. Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President and Archbishop of Trissur, inaugurated the function. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary Media Commission and Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, the Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute, Award Winners Mr Shaji Malippara, Smt. Celine M James and Mr P.V. Joseph Panthappallil spoke. The Award winners are the following: Mr. Shaji Malippara of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese and St. Sebastian’s Parish, Smt. Celine M James of Thiruvananthapuram Latin Archdiocese and St. Jude Parish, Killippalam, Mr. P.V. Joseph Panthappallil of Bathery Malankara Diocese and Uppatty St. George Parish. The Award consists of twenty five thousand rupees, memento and certificate. May 25, Saturday Catechism Teachers’ One-day Seminar 48 Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Karikkassery, the Bishop of Kottapuram, inaugurated oneday seminar for catechism teachers organized by the POC in connection with the year of faith. The seminar, which took place at Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC, started at 10 am. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Jacob Naluparayil, Rev. Dr. Sebastian Chalakkal, Adv. Fr. Xavier Kudiancherry led classes on the topics, ‘New Evangelization’, ‘Christ-centred Faith Training’ and ‘Challenges and Possibilities of Faith Training Today’. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, the Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute, and Smt. Lissy Varghese, Member of POC MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Executive Committee, spoke. More than 400 catechism teachers from across the dioceses of Kerala participated. The Seminar came to an end by 3 pm. May 28, Sunday ‘Vachana Sahithi’ One-day Seminar Noted writer Mr. Perumpadavam Sreedharan, President Kerala Sathithya Academy, inaugurated ‘Vachana Sahithi 2013’ one-day seminar organized by KCBC Bible Commission. The theme of the seminar was ‘Bible and Malayalam Literature.’ Prof. M. Thomas Mathew lectured on ‘Bible and Malayalam Literature – An historical Approach’, while Rev. Dr. Paul Thelekkat presented a thesis on ‘The Literary Scope of the Bible.’ ‘The Literary Culture of Christians’ was the theme of the panel discussion that followed. Mr. John Paul, Prof. Mathew Ulakamthara, Rev. Dr. Cherian Kunianthodath CMI, Smt. Rosy Thampy, Mr. M.V. Benny and Mr. Ignatius Gonsalves participated in the panel discussion. Prof. V.G. Thampy assessed the Seminar. Bishop Mar George Punnakottil, the Commission Chairman presided over the seminar. More than a hundred persons from the spheres of literature, language and media participated in the seminar. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary Bible Commission, Programme Convenors Dr. Kochurani Joseph and Mr. K.K. Joseph spoke. May 26, Sunday KCYM Syndicate Meeting The syndicate meeting of KCYM was held at St. Pauls’ Hall of the POC at 10 am. Mr. Shijo Mathew, the State President presided over the meeting. Ms Elsina Joseph, Secretary, welcomed the guests. Mr. Rennyraj presented the report of first five months’ KCYM’s activities in the year 2013. State level office-bearers led the discussions that followed. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, State Director, 49 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 released ‘Youvanam’ the official bulletin of KCYM by handing it over to Mr. Anil Jose, the Asian Co-ordinator MIJARC. Mr. Binoj Alocius, the State Secretary delivered vote of thanks. May 26, Sunday KCYM Former Leaders’ Meet KCYM organized a programme titled ‘Boanerges’ in view of honouring the former eminent leaders who elevated KCYM to its present stature. Adv. Antony M Ambatt, the first president of KCYM, Mr M.M. Francis, Mr. Sebastian Vadasserry, Mr. Joseph Jude, Mr. K.G. Mathai, Mr. Michael Valentine, Mr. Eji Parappatt, Mr. Sunny Kaduthazhei, Mr. James Augustine, Smt. Sheeja S Vellanad and Smt. Lija Francis were honoured. State officebearers Mr. I.M. Antony, Mr. Binoj Alocius, Mr. Jomon Joseph, Mr. Bijo P Babu, Ms. Mary Jemsy and Ms. Reena Rajan were at the helm of the programme. May 27, Monday Fr. Jacob Palackappilly New Education Commission Secretary Rev. Fr. Jacob Palackappilly took charge as the new KCBC Education Commission Secretary. Fr. Jacob was extended a warm welcome under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of POC. While appointed Fr. Jacob was holding the post of the Corporate Manger of Education Department of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. He belongs to the parish of St. Joseph’s Kadavanthra. May 29, Wednesday Sr. Lucy SKD New PCDT Programme Coordinator Rev. Sr. Lucy SKC took charge as the new programme coordinator of Palarivattom Community Development Trust (PCDT) of the POC. Sr. Lucy is a member of Society of Krishtudasi (SKD). The POC family gave her warm and cordial welcome to the community. 50 MAY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 May 29, Wednesday Diocesan Spokespersons Meeting Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios inaugurated a meeting of diocesan spokespersons’ organised by the KCBC Vigilance Commission. The meeting was commenced at 10 am at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Paul Thelekkat, Spokesman of Syro-Malabar Church, Rev. Dr. Mons. Philip Njeralakkatt, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary KCBC Media Commission, Mr. Sabu Jose, and Rev. Fr. Jossy Ponnambal, Secretary KCBC Vigilance Commission spoke. Main topics of discussion were ‘Current problems faced by the Church and the society’, Church’s View and Approach in the context of the imminent Parliament Election 2014’, ‘Influence of Communitarian organizations on political and social realms’ and ‘Church’s Viewpoints on Social Issues.’ The meeting came to an end by 1 pm. May 31, Friday Sr. Juliana Francis MSMI Farewell Rev. Sr. Juliana MSMI who had been serving as programme coordinator of the PCDT of the POC was given a cordial send off. The meeting started at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC with a prayer led by Sr. Reena Thomas. Smt. Elsy Antony welcomed the guests. Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery and Rev. Sr. Teresa felicitated. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Director, thanked Sr. Juliana for her services and presented her a memento, wishing her all the best for her future endeavours. Ms Asha Joy delivered vote of thanks. 51 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 June 2, Sunday Eucharistic Adoration with Pope Joining hearts with the Holy Father Pope Francis and universal Church the members of POC including priests, sisters, staff members and PTI students participated a one-hour adoration conducted at POC from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm. During this one hour the entire Catholic world was before the Holy Eucharist as per the request of Pope Francis. Special prayers were offered for the Church, the intentions of the Holy Father and for the success of the year of faith. June 4, Tuesday KCBC-KCMS Joint Meeting A joint meeting of the bishops, generals and provincials of the Kerala Catholic Church was held at Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC. Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, the President of the KCBC presided over the meeting. DGP Dr. Alexander IPS Jacob took class on ‘The Role of the Church in the formation of Human Culture in Kerala,’ while Dr. Christy Fernandez IAS, former Private Secretary to the President of India, delivered a lecture on ‘Co-operation between the State Government and the Church’. Thirty-five bishops including Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, Major Archbishop of Syro-Malabar Church, Major Archbishop of Malankara Church Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Catholicos, Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, President of Kerala Latin Church and 250 major superiors participated in the meeting. June 4, Tuesday Metropolitan Philipose Mar Chrisostom Honoured Metropolitan Philipose Mar Chrisostom of Marthoma Church, who has completed 60 years of his Episcopal ordination, was honoured during the KCBC-KCMS joint meeting. Cardinal Mar Alencherry felicitated the Jubilarian and handed over a statue of St. Joseph, carved in wood. Cardinal stated that Mar Chrisostom, who participated in the Second Vatican Council as an observer and strived for ecumenism, is a model for all. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the President of KCBC, honoured him with ‘Ponnada’, while Archbishop Soosa 52 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Pakiam, the President of Kerala Latin Church, gifted him with a Bible. Archbishop Francis Kallarakal, KCBC Vice President and Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, KCBC Secretary General, felicitated. June 4, Tuesday POC Commission Meeting The joint meeting of the POC Commission and KCBC Executive Committee was held at the St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 5pm. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Mar Andrews Thazhath, the President of the KCBC and the Chairman of the POC Commission presided over the meeting. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal, the Vice President of the KCBC, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos the Secretary General of the KCBC and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of the POC participated the meeting. Meeting finalised the agenda of the forthcoming KCBC meeting and discussed the matters connected with the POC. June 4, Tuesday Labour Commission HR Policy Meeting As per the directive of the KCBC, a meeting with the objective of preparing the final draft of HR policy document by Labour Commission in view of ensuring the welfare and safety of labourers working in various institutions under the Church in Kerala, was held at the POC at 6.30 pm. Mr. Rajan shared his views during the meeting. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, the Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, Rev. Fr. George Thomas, Director KLM, Mr. Joy Gothuruth, President and Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary WIF, participated in the discussion and finalized the policy document, which was presented to KCBC. June 4, Tuesday Environment Day Celebration Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President inaugurated the ‘Prakriti Darshan’ programme organized by KCBC Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission at the POC. Archbishop Mathew Moolakkatt, Chairman of the Commission, presided over. Swami Sivaswaroopananda, Abdul Salam Faizi and Banti Singh spoke representing respective religions. Archbishop Francis Kallarakal, KCBC Vice President guided the Pledge to Safeguard Nature. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, Bishop Selvister Ponnumuthan, Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara the Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, and Rev. Fr. Roby Kannanchira, KCBC Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission Secretary, distributed saplings to representatives of various schools. June 5, Wednesday Bible Class Inauguration Wednesday evening Bible class organized by KCBC Bible Commission was inaugurated by Vice Chairman Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios at 5.30 pm at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor felicitated. 53 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil welcomed the guests while Smt. Elizabeth Joseph delivered the vote of thanks. The Bible classes, which spans 40 Wednesdays, will offer Greek language study for its first 20 minutes. June 5-6, Wednesday-Thursday KCBC Monsoon Session Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council’s Monsoon session was held at the POC from 5 to 6 June. New bishop of Kothamangalam, Mar George Madathikandathil, who participates in KCBC meeting for the first time, was given a warm welcome by Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, President of KCBC, handing him over a medicinal sapling. The KCBC meeting discussed 31 agenda and 36 bishops participated the meeting. June 5, Wednesday Bishops Planted Saplings Environment day was observed by the KCBC in befitting manner. The heads of the Churches together with KCBC office bearers planted saplings in the POC compound. Cardinal Mar George Alencherry Major Archbishop of Syro Malabar Church, Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop of Malankara Church, Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop Francis Kallarakal and Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos planted the saplings. 54 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 June 6, Thursday KCBC Press Conference A press meet was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 4 pm. It was called upon by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General and Spokesperson of the Council to announce the key decisions taken at KCBC monsoon session held on June 5th and 6th. June 7, Friday KCYM Meeting KCYM meeting was held under the presidentship of Bishop Mar Joseph Pandarasseril, KCBC Youth Commission Chairman, in view of assessing the activities of KCYM and to discuss the proposals arose at KCBC meeting. State General Secretary Mr. Renny Raj welcomed the guests. The President Mr. Shijo Mathew, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayal, Director, Rev. Sr. Jismitha SD, Assistant Director, State level office-bearers Mr. I.M. Antony, Mr. Jomon Joseph, Mr. Binoj Alosius, Mr. Bijo P Babu, Ms Elsina Joseph, Ms Jemsy and Ms Reena Rajan participated. June 8, Saturday KCSL Animators’ State Assembly Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC inaugurated KCSL animators’ state assembly. KCSL State President Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil presided over. ‘Poornatha Thedunna Vidyabhyasam’ Study Circle Text 2013 penned by Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara was released by Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, handing it over to Deljo Davis, KSCL Students’ Chairman. Supplementary Text titled ‘Deo Gracias’ was released by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, handing it over to Ms Jesneela Martin, Students General Secretary, while Guidelines 2013 was released by Rev. Sr. Jessy Arakkal SJBC, handing it over to Mr. K.K. Soyi, State Executive. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly presented the Guidelines 2013 and explicated the programme for the next academic year. Bishop Joseph Kariyil inaugurated KCSL award distribution ceremony. Chevalier PT Thomas teaching award for excellence was presented to Mr. K.Y. George for Kozhikode Diocese, while the best animator award was given to Rev. Sr. Vimal SJC from Kottayam Archdiocese. June 12, Wednesday Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil New Youth Commission Secretary 55 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC was appointed as the new KCBC Youth Commission Secretary and Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM) State Director. The POC Community, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, Director of POC, extended a warm reception to Fr. Mathew. Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC belongs to Navajeevan Province of Malankara Bethany Religious Congregation and a native of Mavelikara Diocese. June 15-16, Saturday-Sunday Domestic Workers Forum State Leaders’ Meeting Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC, inaugurated state leaders’ meeting of KLM Domestic Workers Forum. Smt. Alice Antony, State President presided over. Mr. Mathai Marathur, KLM Vice President, Smt. Kochuthresia Joy, Domestic Workers Welfare Board Member, Mr. Justin, Labour Welfare Fund Inspector, Mr. A.J. Sabu, KLM Secretary and Mr. Sherin Babu, Forum Treasurer spoke. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, KLM President, Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil, Director and Mr. Joseph Jude, Workers India Federation General Secretary led the classes and discussions. The meeting, which commenced on 15, was concluded on 16 at 1 pm. June 18, Tuesday KCYM Directors’ and Animators’ Meeting KCYM directors’ and animators’ joint meeting was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10.30 am. Bishop Mar Joseph Pandarasseril, KCBC Youth Commission Chairman, presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC led the classes. Rev. Fr. Joseph Kottayil, Sr. Jismitha SD and State office bearers, who were on the helm of the meet, felicitated. During the meeting held at 2 pm. Mar Joseph Pandarasseril, officially welcomed Rev. Dr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil, the newly appointed Director. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Former State Director, Sr. Jismitha, State Assistant Director, State Office-bearers Mr. I.M. Antony, Ms Mary Jemsy, Mr Rennyraj, Mr Jomon Joseph, Mr Binoj Alosius, Mr Bijo P. Babu, Ms Elsina Joseph and Ms Reena Rajan felicitated. 56 JUNE POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 June 19, Wednesday KCMS Major Superiors’ Meeting Kerala Conference of Major Superiors meeting commenced at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC at 10 am. Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan, the President of KCMS, presided over. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC, Executive Member of KCMS Executive Committee and Rev. Dr. George Puramadom spoke on the theme of KCMS Secretariat. It was decided to buy a land near Aluva for the KCMS secretariat building. June 22, Saturday Pro-Life Simathy Executive Meeting KCBC Pro-Life simathy executive committee meeting was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Family Commission Secretary. Mr. George F. Xavier, General Secretary, presided over. The meeting condemned the move of the government to cut down the marriageable age limit of girls as illegal. Mr. Sabu Jose, PRO, Mr. Yugesh Pulickan and Mr. Saju Edanatt Kizhakkathil, the Secretaries, Mr. James Azhchangadan, Adv. K.A. Jose, Sr. Prathibha, Sr. Mary George, Mr. Louis Varghese, Mr. Martin J Nunus, Rona Rebeiro and Bretlee Bosco spoke. June 27, Thursday KCBC Website Meeting The meeting for the revamping of the website of KCBC was held at St. Peter’s Hall, POC at 4 pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Mr. Jimesh Mr. Manoj and Mr. Shelton participated. 57 JULY July 1-4, Monday-Thursday Vocation Promoters’ Training Camp POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Training camp of the vocation promoters was organised by the KCBC Vocation Commission and Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam, the Chairman of the Commission, inaugurated it. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Sr. Sruthi Jose MSJ, Sr. Celine Thennath AO and Sr. Asha Sebastian SAB spoke. Classes in the Seminar were led by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Fr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Fr. Philip OFM Cap, Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan and Rev. Sr. Sruthi Jose MSJ. The Seminar, which commenced on 1 July at 5 pm, came to an end on 4 at 10.30 am. July 2, Tuesday Catholic Aided College Managers’ Meeting Meeting of aided college managers and principals organized by KCBC Education Commission was inaugurated by Bishop Stanley Roman, Chairman of the Commission, at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 2.30 pm. In the meeting, it was decided to form an association of Catholic Aided Colleges in view of creatively responding to the problems faced by Catholic Aided Colleges. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jacob Palakkappilly, Secretary Education Commission, Rev. Fr. Prashanth Palakkappilly, Rev. Fr. Tomy Joseph, Principal of SB College, Changanasserry, Mr. P.C. Aniyankunju, Principal of St. Alosius College, Edathva, Mr. Ruble Raj, Principal of Marian College, Kuttikkanam, Rev. Fr. Felix Chakkalakkal, Manager of St. Paul’s College, Kalamasserry and Rev. Sr. Janet Augustine, Principal of St. Joseph’s College, Alleppey spoke. July 3, Wednesday Pastoral Training Institute Courses Inauguration Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President, inaugurated MSc Psychology Course, Candidates Diploma Course in theology and weekend psychology course organised by the Pastoral Training Institute at Little Flower Auditorium, POC at 4.30 pm. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy 58 JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Dean of Studies at Pastoral Training Institute, Rev. Sr. Tessy MSST, Ms. Rinku Thankachan, Ms. Jisna Mary and Mr. Jose Baby spoke. 22 students from various dioceses and 25 candidates from various religious congregations are studying here. July 3, Wednesday St. Thomas Day Celebrations The Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle of India was solemnly celebrated with a Holy Mass at 6.30am with Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil as the main celebrant and all other priests at POC as con-celebrants. The POC family celebrated the feast day in a befitting manner. July 4, Thursday Talent General Body Meeting The thirty-fourth general body meeting of Talent Publications Society was held at 10 am at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. The meeting commenced with a prayer by Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, the Chief Editor. Rev. Jolly Vadakkan, Managing Editor, delivered the introductory address. Rev. Fr. Stephen Alathara, Director of POC, presided over. Chevalier. Dr. Primus Perincherry, Society Secretary presented the Annual Report while A.P. Anna Mary presented the Report on behalf of Mr. P.C. Varghese, the Auditor. Mr. Antony Chadayammuri, Associate Editor, delivered vote of thanks. The meeting came to an end with a prayer led by Dr. Edward Edezhath. July 5, Friday Family Apostolate Directors’ Meet His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil the Family Commission Chairman of the KCBC inaugurated the diocesan family apostolate directors’ meeting at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. July 6, Saturday Kerala Catholic Federation Meeting Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil inaugurated the state assembly of Kerala Catholic Federation (KCF). Prof. Jacob M Abraham, President presided over. Rev. Dr. 59 JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, delivered the key note address. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, the Director, Mr. Saiby Akkara, General Secretary, Mr. Cherian Chenneerkara, Adv. D. Raju, Mr. Jolly Pavelil, Mr. Shaji George, Mr. Jacob Mundakkal, Mr. Philip Kadavil, Mr. John Kachiramattom, Mr. P.A. Lazar, Adv. Jose Vithayathil, Mr. Nelson Fernandez and Mr. Georgekutty VC spoke. Mr. John Kachiramattom, Mr. P.I. Lazar and Adv. Jose Vithayathil were honoured during the meeting. Memories of Chev. V.C. Antony, Former President, Chev. Varghese Kannanthanam and Prof. P.T. Chacko were also honoured. Adv. Biju Parayanilam and Mr. J. Sahayadas, the General Secretaries, presented the reports of organizations namely AKCC, KLCA and MCA. New office-bearers were elected during the assembly. July 11-14, Thursday-Sunday FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar Mar Bosco Puthur inaugurated Fides four-days Year of Faith seminar. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Sr. Akhila CSN, Mr. Simon P Joseph and Rev. Sr. Tessy spoke. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Dr. Jacob Naluparayil, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiyedath, Rev. Dr. Sebastian Panjikkaran, Rev. Dr. Antony Narikulam, . Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambi and Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur led the classes. The Camp which commenced on 11 June came to an end by 14. July 15-18, Monday-Thursday Vocation Promoters’ Meeting July 17, Tuesday CHAI Kerala Board Meeting 60 State seminar of vocation promoters from various religious congregations of Kerala was held at Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, inaugurated the meeting, while Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt, Secretary of Vocation Commission, presided over. Sr. Shruthi Jose MSJ, Sr. Celine Thennatt MO and Sr. Litty Xavier SCJG spoke. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB and Sr. Shruthi Jose MSJ led the classes. The Seminar, which began on 15 July at 6 pm, came to an end by on 18 at 1pm. CHAI Kerala Board meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC from 10.30 am to 1.30 pm. Rev. Fr. Sunil Chirayankandath, the President, welcomed the guests. Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery presented the report. Discussions were held on organizing the Annual General Body meeting at JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Malabar Zone and the National General Body meeting at Bangalore. It was decided to make the various programmes of the subsidiary institutions of CHAI Kerala more active. July 19, Friday Bible Apostolate Directors’ Meeting KCBC Bible apostolic directors’ meeting commenced at St. Peter’s Hall, POC at 10 am. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, the Chairman presided over. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil welcomed the guests. The assembly approved the report presented by Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil. He said that it was the first meeting since Bible Commission was made a Registered Trust. Board of Trustees consists of Bible Commission Chairman, Vice-Chairmen, Bible Commission Secretary, Finance Officer, KCBC Deputy Secretary General and Diocesan Bible Apostolate Directors. Rev. Fr. Paulson Simethy was elected to the Managing Committee as the representative of Diocesan Apostolic Directors. Rev. Fr. Secretary informed that every diocese have to register for Logos Quiz 2013 through online and take a print out of the certificate through internet. Question papers are being prepared in Tamil too. Online Logos Quiz is being conducted for the NRIs. The theme for the year 2014 is Leviticus 15 – 27, Luke 13 – 24 and 2 and 3 Letters of St. John. Exam date was announced as 28 September. July 19, Friday Bible Society Managing Council Meeting Managing Council meeting of the KCBC Bible Society commenced at 2.15 pm under the presidentship of Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, the Chairman of the Commission. Mr. P.V. Sebastian, the Vice-Chairman, delivered the welcome address. Mr. Antony Palimattom, Joint Secretary, presented the Report. Sr. Nima CTC, the treasurer, presented the accounts. Discussions were held on the honouring of Bishop Mar George Punnakkottil, former Chairman of Bible Commission. The Meeting ended by 4.30 pm. July 19, Saturday Bible Society Annual General Body Meeting Twenty-second annual general body meeting of Kerala Catholic Bible Society was held at 2 pm. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, the Chairman of the Commission, inaugurated the meeting. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Mr. Antony Palimattom, Joint Secretary, welcomed the guests. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara led the prayer session. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary of Bible Society, presented Annual Report and Action Report, while Sr. Nima CTC, the treasurer, presented the accounts. Mar Joseph Pallikkaparambil Award (10000 rupees and trophy) for collecting the highest amount for the Society was presented to Neyyatinkara Diocese, while the Best Promoter Award was given away to Smt. Jancy Jacob from Cochin Diocese. Archbishop released the audio CD of Psalms and 61 JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 inaugurated the Logos Quiz Registration Website for NRIs. Election of managing council members for 2013-16 was also held. Mr. Antony Palamattom from Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese was elected as the Vice-Chairman and Jismon Jose was elected as the Joint Secretary. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil thanked all. The meeting ended at 7 pm. July 23, Tuesday Aided School Managers’ Meeting The meeting of Kerala Catholic aided school managers’ was held at St. Peter’s Hal of the POC at 10 am. Rev. Fr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. The meeting intended to discuss the circular issued by Higher Secondary Director on 18 July 2013. The meeting demanded the Government to withdraw the circular and continue with existing procedure of appointment. The circular was condemned as detrimental to the right of managements Rev. Fr. Jacob Palackappilly, Education Commission Secretary, Rev. Fr. Mathew Chandrankunnel, Rev. Fr. James Chellamkott, Rev. Fr. Mathew Nadumukhath, Rev. Fr. Thomas Kakkasserry, Rev. Fr. Francis and Msgr. Isaac Kochery spoke. July 22-25, Monday-Thursday Workshop for Religious Trainers Workshop for Religious Trainers organized by KCBC Vocation Commission was inaugurated by Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt, Rev. Sr. Sruthi Jose MSJ, Rev. Sr. Vincy SDS and Rev. Sr. Silvy Kizhakkemury SABS spoke during the meeting. In four-day long workshop, Rev. Fr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Rev. Fr. Joyce SDB, Rev. Sr. Dr. Soja John MSMI, Rev. Sr. Dr. Sherin Maria CHF and Rev. Sr. Dr. Ranit DM led the classes. The workshop, which commenced on 22 July at 4 pm, was concluded on 25 at 10.30 am. 62 JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 July 24, Wednesday KCYM Syndicate Meeting The syndicate meeting of Kerala Catholic Youth Movement commenced at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Mr. Shijo Mathew, the State President, presided over, while Ms. Mary Jemsy, the Vice President, welcomed the attendees. Mr. Renny Raj, the General Secretary, presented the half yearly Report. Rev. Dr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC, the Director, addressed the syndicate. State Office bearers led the discussions that followed. Mr. Binoj Alocious, Secretary, delivered the vote of thanks. July 25, Thursday Jesus Fraternity Executive Committee Meeting The executive committee meeting of Jesus Fraternity commenced at 11 am with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Director. Rt. Rev. Dr. Stephen Athipozhiyil, Chairman, presided over. Rev. Sr. Rosy Edassery presented the report of the last meeting and the accounts of the financial year 2012-2013. Fr. Yesudas announced that the Fraternity Day must be celebrated in all zones, and the State level celebrations will be held at Kollam zone. A committee was appointed to study the rules and make necessary amendments. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveettil, Rev. Fr. Francis Kodiyan, Rev. Fr. Tony Kallookkaran, Rev. Sr. Jesina, Rev. Sr. Rosy Edasserry and Mr. Edgar are the Committee members. Ms. C. Sunitha, Secretary of Jesus Fraternity Kannur zone thanked all the participants. The meeting came to an end by 1 pm. July 27, Saturday Inauguration of Special Schools’ Federation Bishop Mar Bosco Puthur inaugurated the Special Schools’ Federation under KCBC at Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC. Rev. Fr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Jacob Palackappilly, Education Commission Secretary, felicitated. Rev. Fr. Romance Antony and Rev. Fr. Roy Mathew Vadakkel, Special Schools Co-ordinator, detailed on the objectives and future programmes of the Federation. Rev. Fr. Thomas Felix CMI was honoured with ‘Ponnada’ for his unparalleled contribution in the field of Special Schools. 8500 differently abled children are been trained in 143 special schools functioning under the KCBC. July 28, Sunday Feast of St. Alphonsa July 29, Monday Vocation Commission Seminar The feast of St. Alphonsa was celebrated at 6.30 am with a solemn Holy Mass and Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan was the main celebrant. The priests members of the POC family concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration. This was the fifth festal celebration since the canonization of the saint. Mar Joseph Perumthottam, Chairman of Vocation Commission and the Archbishop of Changanacherry Archdiocese, inaugurated the one-day seminar on Priestly Vocations organized by KCBC Vocation Commission at 63 JULY POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Little Flower Auditorium. Rev. Fr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Tomy Tharayil, Director of Danahalaya Formation Centre, and Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary of KCBC Bible Commission, presented papers. Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB, Secretary of the Commission, Rev. Sr. Sruthy Jose MSJ, Rev. Fr. Linto Konikkara OFM Cap. and Rev. Fr. Paul Savio spoke. The seminar, which started at 10 am, ended at 4 pm. July 30, Tuesday Bible Society Managing Council Meeting Rev. Fr. Stephen Althara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, inaugurated the meeting of KCBC Bible Society Managing Council. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary, and Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Media Commission Secretary spoke. The election to Kerala Catholic Bible Society Managing Council for the year 2013-2016 was also held. Mr. Antony Palamattom from ErnakulamAngamaly Archdiocese, was elected as the Chairman, while Mr. Jismon Jose from Pala Diocese was chosen as the Joint Secretary. Managing Council Members are: Mr. Sabu Jose, Mr. Davis M Paul, Mr. Sijo Painadath, Smt. Molly Thomas (Ernakulam-Angamaly), Mr. Robin Mathew (Pala), Mr. Baby Mundakkal (Kothamangalam), Rev. Fr. Sebastian Karukappilly, Smt. Elizabeth Joy, Smt. V.A. Elsy, Sr. Rexia (Verapoly), Mr. Sanil Augustine, Mr. C.A. Robin Das, Mr. George Joseph, Adv. Roshan (Kochi), Smt. Annamma Thomas (Muvattupuzha), Smt. Tina Jose (Thamarassery), Smt. Celine Jose (Irinjalakuda), Mr. P.C. Joseph (Changanacherry), Mr. Mathew M. Kandathil (Thalasseri), Mohan Pillai (Alappuzha) and Binu Payattuvila (Neyyatinkara). Other Office bearers are: Mr. Mathew Plathottam (Thalasseri), Smt. V.A. Kochuthresia (Verapoly), Smt. Jancy Jacob (Kochi), Mr. Antony Sachin (Verapoly), Mr. Leo Tom (Trissur) and Mr. Joseph Panthaplackal (Changanacherry). The meeting was concluded at 1 pm. 64 AUGUST POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 August 5, Monday Lumen Fidei: Malayalam Translation Released The Malayalam translation of the Lumen Fidei (Viswasa Velicham) the first encyclical letter of Pope Francis was solemnly released by Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis by handing it over to Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President. Archbishop Francis Kallarakal, KCBC Vice President, Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, KCBC Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil and Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil participated. August 5, Monday KCBC Theological Colloquium A Colloquium of the KCBC with the major seminary and minor seminary rectors, faculty presidents, representatives of the teaching staff of major seminaries and institutes and the KCBC Commission secretaries was held at Mount St. Thomas on 5 August 2013. The Colloquium began at 10 am and concluded at 4 pm. The colloquium discussed the theme "Cultural Changes and New Evangelization". Rev. Dr. Vincent Kundukulam (Cultural Changes in India: Prospects and Challenges for New Evangelization), Dr. D. Babu Paul IAS (Christian Response to Changing Cultures), Bp. Dr. Sebastian Adayanthrath (Migration and Pastoral Planning), Dr. Kuriakose Kumbalakuzhy (Church and Cultural Integration in Kerala), Rev. Dr. Adv. Xavier Kudiyamcherry (Cultural Fear and Identity Assertion) were presented the papers. Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, the Secretary General of the KCBC welcomed the gathering. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of the KCBC presided over the colloquium. Bishop Abraham Mar Julios, the Chairman of the KCBC Theological Commission made the concluding statement. 72 theologians including 32 bishops participated in the colloquium. 65 AUGUST POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 August 5, Monday POC Commission Meeting The joint meeting of the POC Commission and KCBC Executive Committee was held at the Mount St. Thomas Headquarters of the Syro-Malabar Church, Kakkanadu at 4pm. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Mar Andrews Thazhath, the President of the KCBC and the Chairman of the POC Commission presided over the meeting. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal, the Vice President of the KCBC, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos the Secretary General of the KCBC and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of the POC participated the meeting. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Bosco Puthur, the curia bishop of Syro-Malabar Church and Rev. Fr. Francis Xavier Thannkiaparambil, the Deputy Secretary of the KRLCBC were specially invited to the meeting. The meeting discussed the matters connected with the POC and finalised the agenda of the forthcoming KCBC meeting. August 5-9, Monday-Friday Annual Retreat of the Bishops The annual retreat of Kerala Catholic bishops commenced on 5 August at 8 pm and ended at 1 pm on 9 August at Mount St. Thomas, the headquarters of the Syro-Malabar Church. Rev. Fr. Job Koottumkal from Ernakulam-Angamaly preached the retreat for the bishops. August 6, Sunday Temperance Commission Meeting The KCBC Temperance Commission executive committee meeting commence at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. The aim of the meeting was to plan out the preparations for Joytirgamaya freedom from liquor voyage to be held from August 15 to October 2. Diocesan office bearers, Regional office bearers and directors participated. The meeting ended at 1 pm. August 9, Friday KCBC August Session The KCBC meeting held at Mount St. Thomas Kakkanadu soon after the annual retreat of the bishops. Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath presided over the meeting. Eighteen matters, which affected Church and society in Kerala, were discussed in the meeting. The meeting concluded at 6.30pm. August 9, Wednesday CLC Executive Committee Meeting 66 The state executive Committee meeting of Christian Life Community (CLC) commenced at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am. Mr. Jojo George, State President, presided over the meeting while Rev. Fr. Roy Nedumthanam, State Promoter, delivered the introductory address. Mr. Jayakumar, State Treasurer, Miss Reetha Das, Vice President, Mr. Vinesh Kolangadan, Joint Secretary, Mr. Dennis K. Antony, Mr. Shobby Paul, Organizer and Sr. Swarga, oderator spoke. AUGUST POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 August 9, Friday KCF Leaders’ Meeting Bishop Varghese Chakkalakkal, Chairman of KCBC Laiy Commission, inaugurated KCF state leaders’ meeting. Mr. P.A. Lazar, State President, presided over. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Director and Prof. Jacob M Abraham spoke. The meeting demanded for a definite action to free the people from Mullaperiyar scare and asked the state government to pressurize the central government to include Dalit Christians in the list of the Scheduled Castes. August 10, Saturday Lumen Fidei One-day Seminar Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President, inaugurated the oneday study camp on Lumen Fidei the first encyclical of Pope Francis. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil lectured on ‘History of Faith in the Scriptures’, Rev. Dr. Joseph Pamplani on ‘Faith and Reason’, Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkat on ‘Faith transmitted through the Church’ and Rev. Dr. Varghese Vallikkatt on ‘Practical Sphere of Faith’. The Study Camp commenced at 10 am ended by 4 pm. August 11, Sunday KCYM State Council Meeting August 16-18, Friday-Sunday Lumen Fidei: Three-days Workshop The State of Council of KCYM gathered at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC at 10 am in view of preparing the programme for the months August, September and October. Decisions were made regarding the points to be presented at the ICYM executive committee meet that takes place at Jalandhar from August 22 to 25. Mar George Madathikandathil, Bishop of Kothamangalam, inaugurated the three-days study camp organized by POC on ‘Lumen Fidei: (The Light of Faith) the first encyclical of Pope Francis. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Dr. Chacko Puthenpurakkal, Rev. Dr. Prasad Theruvath OCD, Rev. Dr. Gasper Kadaviparambil, Rev. Dr. Augustine Pamplani CST, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, 67 AUGUST POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Rev. Dr. Martin Kallumkal, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Sr. Sophie Rose CMC and Rev. Fr. Antony Ponvelil OCD led the classes. The Seminar, which began at Little Flower Auditorium, POC on 16 at 5pm end on 18 at 1 pm. August 18, Sunday KLM State Committee Meeting The state committee meeting of Kerala Labour Movement (KLM) commenced at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC, at 10.30 am. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, the President, presided over. Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Director, in his message, said that the central council must be strong enough so that the activities of KLM be fruitful and that the office bearers must act with responsibility to empower the diocesan level activities. KLM Executive Committee expressed condolences over the demise of Rev. Fr. Albert Parashuvila and Rev. Fr. Firmus Kachappilly, the pioneers of the labour movements of the Church in Kerala. August 23-25, Friday-Sunday Lumen Fidei: Three-days Workshop Rt. Rev. Dr Joseph Kariyil, Bishop of Kochi, inaugurated the second threedays study camp organized by POC on Lumen Fidei (The Light of Faith), the first encyclical of Pope Francis. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Dean of Studies at POC, Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor and Prof. Thara Johns, Secretary KCBC Women Commission Secretary spoke. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. Prasad Theruvath OCD, Rev. Dr. Gasper Kadaviparambil, Rev. Dr. Augustine Pamplani CST, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, Rev. Dr. Martin Kallumkal, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Sr. Sophie Rose CMC and Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil led the classes. 68 AUGUST POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 August 24, Saturday Justice Sunday Observance Most Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal inaugurated the state level justice Sunday celebratons organized by Dalit Commission. Mr. James Elavumkal, State President of DCMS, presided over. Bishop Selvister Ponnumuthan, KCBC Dalit Commission Chairman, delivered the benedictory speech. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, distributed the scholarships to dalit Christian students. Adv. V.V. Joshy, member of state minority commission, Rev. Fr. John Areekkal, Dalit Commission Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jose Kuttikkal, Mr. Scaria Antony, Mr. Shibu Joseph and Mr. Pathrose P.O. spoke on the occasion. August 26, Monday Teachers Guild Preliminary Meeting The meeting of the representatives of teaching staff, organized by KCBC Education Commission was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC. Bishop Stanley Roman, Chairman of the Commission, presided over. The key point of the meeting’s discussion was to enliven the Catholic Teachers’ Guild under KCBC Education Commission. Decision was also made to form an Ad hoc committee to organise Catholic Teachers’ Guild in the State level. August 28, Wednesday Sarathi State Level Animators’ Meeting Sarathi state level animators’ meeting was inaugurated by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara the Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC at the LF Auditorium of the POC. Sarathi is a drivers’ association under Justice Peace Development Commission of the KCBC. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil presided over the function. Rev. Fr. Varghese Karippery and the state level office bearers of the Sarathi spoke on the occasion. 69 SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 September 4, Wednesday Reception to Lahari Vimochana Yathra ‘Laharivimochana Yathra’ conducted by KCBC Temperance Commission was held from 15 August 2013 to 2 October. POC extended a very warm reception to the Yathra. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Adv. Charley Paul, Rev. Fr. Antony T James (Ralley Captain & Secretary of KCBC Temperance Commission) rendered speeches. September 7, Saturday Inter-Religious Prayer Meeting for World Peace An inter-religious prayer for World Peace organized by KCBC Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission, held at little Flower Auditorium. Bishop Joseph Mar Gregorious, Secretary of Jacobite Synod, inaugurated the function. Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over the function. Bishop Mar Thomas Chakiath, Swami Shivaswaroopananda (Secretary of Advaithashramam, Kalady), Imam Al Kausari (S.R.M, Juma Masjid Shifar) Shri Mukesh Jain, (Representative of Jainism), delivered messages of peace. Shri. Ramachandran (Secretary, Ernakulam Karayogam), Shri R. K. Damodaran and Imam Navaz also rendered speeches. Rev. Fr Roby Kannanchira C.M.I delivered the welcome speech, while Mr. Sabu Jose expressed the vote of thanks. Swami Sachidananda Bharati led the Prayer for Peace. September 9-10, Saturday-Sunday Provincial Superiors’ Workshop 70 Rev. Dr. Joe Mannath, CRI General Secretary inaugurated a two-days seminar conducted for provincials of various Religious Congregations. It was presided over by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General. Rev. Fr. Joe Mannath, renowned writer and National Secretary of C.R.I and Rev. Fr. Jose Thachil, National Programme Director of C.R.I, led the two-days seminar on ‘Total Commitment of Religious Life and Personal Integrity’. On the inaugural SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 meeting, Rev. Fr. Francis Kodiyan, President of KCMS, Rev. Sr. Bindhu A.S.S.A, Secretary of KCMS, Rev. Fr. George Puramadom C.F.I.C. and Rev. Sr. Fabi Joseph S.C.C. rendered speeches. September 11-14, Wednesday-Saturday Marian Singles Four-days Seminar A four-days workshop of Marian Singles association was inaugurated by Mar Mathew Anikuzhikkattil at P.O.C. Major Archbishop Cardinal Mar George Alencherry said words of blessing. Joseph Mar Thomas, KCBC Family Commission Vice Chairman, delivered the message. President Miss Mary Maleparambil, Rev. Father Jose Kottayil, Rev. Father George Kurukkoor, and Mr. Liju P. S. rendered speeches. September 13, Friday Women’s Commission Meeting KCBC Women Commission meeting was held at St. Peter’s hall of the P.O.C and it was presided over by Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas, the Chairman. The topic chosen for the year 2013 by CBCI Women Commission was “Raise the voice for women and children”. Discussion was held on the Seminar that is to take place from October 11-14 on the same topic. The meeting, which started at 10 am, ended at 1 pm. September 13, Friday PCDT Onam Celebrations The Onam celebration of the Palarivattom Community Development Trust (PCDT) was conducted in the PCDT Campus. Variety entertainments and cultural programmes were performed by the geriatric nursing students, tailoring and computer students. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara the President of the PCDT inaugurated the celebrations. PCDT is the social service department of the POC. September 14, Friday Onam Celebration at the POC Onam celebrations at POC began at 9.30 am with the Holy Mass. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of POC, was the main celebrant of the Eucharistic 71 SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 celebrations in which all other priests of POC concelebrated. At 11 am, a meeting followed at the Little Flower hall. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara delivered the Onam message. M.Sc. Psychology students, sisters who are doing their Pastoral Theology Course, Students of Psychology and all the staff members took part in the various cultural programmes. The celebrations ended in a grand way with a delicious Ona sadhya. September 17-20, Tuesday-Friday FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar Mar Bosco Puthur inaugurated the FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar. The inaugural meeting was presided over by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier O.C.D, Dean of Studies, POC, Mr. P.J. George, Deputy Manager Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Rev. Sr. Lisna S.H. and Rev. Sr. Alice S.H. delivered speeches. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. Gregory R.B, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. Antony Narikulam, Rev. Dr. Philip Nelpuraparambil, Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkattu, Rev Dr. Sebastian Panjikkaran, Rev. Dr. Martin Kallunkal, Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiyedath, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambil and Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur delivered classes on various topics. September 21, Saturday Indian Catholic Press Association Meeting 72 A convention of Catholic Media persons and publication houses was held at POC in connection with the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA) and in association with KCBC Media Commission. Bishop Dr. Joseph Kariyil, Chairman of KCBC Media Commission, inaugurated the convention which upheld ‘New Media Culture and the Catholic Church’ as the key theme. Rev. Dr. Kuriakose Mundadan, the Chief Editor of Satyadeepam presided over. Rev. Fr. SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Alphonso Elanjikkal, President of ICPI, Mons. Alex Vadakkumthala, Vicar General of Verapoly Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Jose Panthaplamthottil, Prior General CMI, Rev. Dr. Stephan Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary KCBC Media Commission, Smt. Rosy Thampy and Adv. Antony Ambatt rendered speeches. September 21-22, Saturday-Sunday CBCI Labour Commission Meeting Bishop Oswald Lewis, Chairman of CBCI Labour Commission, inaugurated the Convention of Labour Commission Secretaries and Labour Movement Leaders from South India. The convention was held under the aegis of Catholic Bishop Conference of India (CBCI) Labour Commission and Workers India Federation (WIF). Bishop Mar Jose Porunnedam, Chairman of KCBC Labour Commission, presided over. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Secretary of CBCI Labour Commission, Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil, Secretary of Labour Commission, Mr. P. Rajamani, President of Workers India Federation and Mr. Joseph Jude, General Secretary of Workers India Federation spoke during the convention. September 21, Saturday Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Jose Puthenveettil Mar Jose Puthenveettil was ordained as the Auxiliary Bishop of ErnakulamAngamaly Archdiocese. The Episcopal ordination ceremony took place at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica, with Cardinal Mar George Alencherry as the principal consecrator. Mar George Valiamattam, Archbishop of Thalasseri and Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, Auxiliary Bishop Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, were con-celebrants. Archbishop Mar Andrews 73 SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Thazhath, Archbishop of Trissur Archdiocese, delivered the sermon. Archbishop Salvatore Pinocchio, Aptolic Nuncio to India, passed on the papal greetings. After the ordination ceremony, Holy Mass was celebrated with the newly ordained Auxiliary Bishop as the Main Celebrant. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara and other priests took part in the function representing Pastoral Orientation Centre. September 22-19, Sunday-Sunday All Kerala Professional Drama Fest Bishop Dr. Joseph Kariyil, Chairman of KCBC Media Commission, inaugurated the 26 All Kerala Professional Drama Contest organized under the aegis of KCBC Media Commission on 22 September at 5 pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of POC, presided over. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary of Media Commission and Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor, Editor of POC Publications spoke. On the inaugural day, Thiruvananthapuram Sahithi Theatres enacted the drama, ‘Sahrudaya Sadassu’. Pala Communications presented the drama, ‘Nilavinte Kayyoppu’ Thiruvananthapuram Sanghakeli presented ‘Kathayallithu Jeevitham’ Kanjirappilly Amala Communications enacted ‘Parayan Bakkivachathu’, Cherthala Cochin Mahatma rendered ‘Kodeeswarante Veedu’, Kollam Assissi enacted ‘Ente Makalku’, Kollam Atmamithra presented ‘Ishtangal Ariyatha Veedu’ and Thiruvananthapuram Souparnika enacted ‘Kanalkattu’. September 23, Monday Prayer Service for the Persecuted Christians Special prayer service was conducted at Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC for the repose of the souls of the Christian faithful murdered while they were attending Holy Mass at Peshawar in Pakistan. The faithful were blown up in a bomb blast executed by the terrorists. Rev. 74 SEPTEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, led the services. The attendees took anti-terrorism oath, carrying lighted candles in their hands. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Secretary of KCBC Family Commission, read out the oath. September 27, Friday Textbook Committee Meeting The textbook committee meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 4.30pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara presided over. Anu Pinhero read out the chapters 2,3 and 9 from the textbook of standard 8, which was reviewed by the Review Team, who put forward suggestions for revision. The meeting also discussed the elements to be added further. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Dr. Edward Edezhath and Rev. Sr. Tessy Antony participated in the meeting. September 30, Monday Laity Commission Leaders Meeting Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal inaugurated the lay leaders meeting organised by the KCBC Laity Commission and KCF at the Little Flower Auditorium of the POC. Mr. P. A. Lazar Master, President of KCF, presided over the meeting. Adv. Jose Vithayathil, Secretary of Lay Commission, rendered the keynote address. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Mr. V.C. Georgekutty and Mr. E.K. Justin Antony rendered speeches. In the Seminar that followed, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Prof. Jacob Abraham and Smt. Marykutty Abraham led the classes. Adv. Biju Parayanilam and Mr. Shaji George expressed responses. September 30, Monday Union Minister Honoured The Laity Commission of the KCBC honoured Prof. K.V. Thomas Union Minister for Food and Public Distribution. Mar Andrews Thazhath, KCBC President, inaugurated the public meeting in which Bishop Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal presided over. Prof. K.V. Thomas delivered the keynote address. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Adv. Jose Vithayathil, Mr. P.A. Lazar Master, Mr. Nelson Fernandez and Mr. N.M. Thomas spoke. The meeting was concluded at 5 pm. 75 OCTOBER October 2, Wednesday KCBC Pro-Life Meeting POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General inaugurated the state leaders of meet of the KCBC Prolife Simathy. Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Secretary Family Commission, said that everyone must come forward to act together for values like justice, law, peace, human dignity, and protection of human rights, equality and conservation of the environment. Rev. Fr. John Pulipparambil, Secretary of KRLCBC Family Commission, Rev. Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Associate General Secretary, Mr. Yugesh Pulickal and Mr. Babu Komaroth spoke. October 2, Wednesday Jesus Fraternity One-day Seminar The One-day Seminar of the office bearers of Jesus Fraternity was inaugurated by Mar Jose Puthenveettil, Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. High Court Justice Kamaal Paasha delivered the keynote address on ‘Growing crimes and their circumstances’. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, State Director of Jesus Fraternity and Mr. Mathew Panachippuram rendered speeches. About a hundred Jesus Fraternity activists from all parts of Kerala participated in the Seminar. October 3, Thursday Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Sr. Jenet FCC The Golden Jubilee Celebration of Sr. Janet FCC was solemnly celebrated. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara celebrated the thanksgiving Holy Eucharist and other priests of the POC family concelebrated. Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatius of Mavelikara Diocese, inaugurated the jubilee meeting at Little Flower Auditorium at 11 am. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Prefect of Studies, welcomed the guests. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, presided over. Sr. Nima CTC, Mr. A.J. Alocius, as the representative of Staff members and Sr. Jilsy FCC spoke. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara presented a statue of St. Francis Assisi to the Jubilarian, while Rev. Dr. George Kurukkur vested her with a shawl and Mr. Alocius 76 OCTOBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 presented her a memento. Sr. Tina CTC, the former staff of the POC, who is on her Silver Jubilee year, was presented with a Bible by Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, while Rev. Dr. Kurukkoor vested her with a shawl. October 5, Saturday Vocation Commission Executive Meeting KCBC Vocation Commission Executive Committee meeting started at St. Luke Hall, POC at 10 am. A discussion was held on the releasing of 3 new bulletins per annum. 15 persons participated. The meeting ended at 1 pm. October 11, Friday Textbook Committee Meeting The textbook committee meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 4.30pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara presided over it. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Dr. Edward Edezhath, Dr. C.D. Sebastian, Mr. Anu Pinhero, Sr. Tessy Antony MSST, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan and Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil participated. The meeting ended at 6 pm. October 11-13, Friday-Sunday Women’s Commission Workshop Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, Major Archbishop of Syro Malabar Church, inaugurated the workshop organized by KCBC Women’s Commission in connection with the Year of Faith. Joseph Mar Thomas, Chairman of the Commission, presided over. Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal, Vice Chairman of the Commission, delivered the benedictory speech, while Smt. K.C. Rosakutty, Chairperson Kerala State Women’s Commission, delivered the keynote address. Adv. Anjali Syrus and Adv. Bobby Paulose took part in the panel discussion. Rev. Fr. Winson Koonan moderated the discussions. Prof. Thara Johns, Secretary Women’s Commission, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary of Media Commission, Smt. Jane Ansil and Smt. Silsy Parel spoke. Prof. Thara Johns vested Smt. Simi Rosebell John with ‘Ponnada’ as a gesture of honour. October 18, Friday Bible Society Managing Council Meeting Kerala Catholic Bible Society Managing Council took place at St. Paul’s Hall, POC at 3 pm. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, the Chairman, presided over. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary, presented the report. 5,85,000 people participated in the State level Logos Quiz held on 29 September. State level examinations were fixed to be held on 30 November and 1 December. Telequiz will be applicable only for the Grand Finale. Rev. Sr. Nima CTC delivered vote of thanks. The meeting was concluded at 6.30 pm. October 19, Saturday Bishop George Punnakottil Honoured Bishop Mar George Punnakottil, who steered the KCBC Bible Commission for three decades, and stepped down from the office was fittingly honoured. Archbishop Dr. Soosa Pakiam, the Chairman of the KCBC Bible Commission, 77 OCTOBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 inaugurated ‘Dies Gratiae’ (Day of Gratitude), organized by KCBC Bible Commission and Kerala Catholic Bible Society in order to honour the former Chairman. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam presented a statue of St. Jerome to Mar George Punnakottil in a gesture of honour. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presented a memento to Bishop Punnakottil. Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Secretary of Bible Commission, spoke. October 19, Saturday Bible Apostolate Directors’ Meeting Bible apostolate directors’ meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 2 pm. Archbishop Soosa Pakiam, Chairman of Bible Commission, presided over. Rev. Fr. Joshy Mayyattil, presented the Report, which was instantly approved by the meeting. Rev. Fr. Augustine Kuttiani, former Executive Member, was reelected as the representative of Diocesan Directors. October 19, Saturday Jerusalem Pilgrimage Meeting The meeting of the pilgrims, who partake in the Jerusalem pilgrimage organized by KCBC Bible Commission, was held at St. Paul’s Hall, POC at 10 am. 48 pilgrims attended the meeting, which came to an end at 1 pm. October 24-26, Thursday-Saturday Training Camp for Women Religious Aspirants Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam inaugurated the three-day training camp for women religious aspirants organized by KCBC Vocation Commission. Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, KCBC Secretary General, Mar Jose Porunnedom, Bishop of Mananthavady Diocese, Mar Raphael Thattil, Auxiliary Bishop of Trissur Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary KCBC Media Commission, Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil, Director of Jesus Fraternity, 78 OCTOBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Rev. Fr. Raju Chakkanatt SDB, Secretary Vocation Commission, Rev. Sr. Sruthi Jose MSJ, Programme Co-ordinator and Rev. Sr. Grace Cheerankal, Former Council Member of Vocation Commission led the classes. October 25, Friday Catholic ITI Managers’ Meeting Mar Jose Porunnedom, Chairman of KCBC Labour Commission, inaugurated the meeting on ITI managers and principals. The meeting was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC. Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Secretary of KCBC Labour Commission, Rev. Fr. George Kurukkoor, Mr. Joy Gothuruth, State President of KLM, Mr. Joseph Jude, Mr. Shaju Antony, Brother K.T. Mathew and Mr. Babu Thannikkott spoke. New office bearers of ITI Management Association were elected during the meeting. Brother K.T. Mathew was elected as the President, Brother Joy Kakkattil as the Vice President, Rev. Fr. Betson Thookuparambil as General Secretary, Sr. Judy as Secretary and Rev. Fr. Jose Kuttikkeril as Treasurer. Rev. Sr. Alphonsa Francis, Mr. Joseph V., Mr. Noble and Rev. Fr. Joby Asethuparambil were elected as the Committee members. October 25, Friday Releasing of the Peoples Management Policy Bishop Mar Joseph Porunnedom, KCBC Labour Commission Chairman released the Peoples Management Policy of the KCBC. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary of Media Commission, Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, KLM State Director, Rajan M, HR Specialist, Mr. Joy Gothuruth, KLM State President, Mr. Joseph Jude, National Secretary of WIF, Mr. Shaju Antony, KLM State General Secretary and Mr. Babu, State President of KLM Tailors’ Forum, participated in the meeting. October 26, Saturday One-day Seminar on Marian Exhortations Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, KCBC Secretary General, inaugurated the one-day seminar on the Ecclesiastical Exhortations on Holy Virgin Mary. Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor, Assistant Director of POC and the translator of the book, ‘Marian Exhortations’ presided over. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary Media Commission, Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Dean of Studies and Mr. Shijo Mathew, KCYM State President spoke. Mar Raphael Thattil, Auxiliary Bishop of Trissur Archdiocese, Mr. T. Devaprasad, the Editor of Divine Voice, Rev. Fr. Ossy Kalathil and Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil led the classes. October 26, Saturday Marian Exhortations Released Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, KCBC General Secretary, handing it over to Sr. Clarisia, Assistant General of Holy Family Congregation, released the translation of 30 Ecclesiastical Exhortations on the Blessed Virgin Mary. These 79 OCTOBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Exhortations were published at various times in the history of the Church from 1569 to 2013, covering 444 years. This was meant to be a gift to the faithful of Kerala in the Year of Faith. October 28-29, Monday-Tuesday Media Directors’ Training Camp Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, inaugurated the Media Seminar jointly organized by KCBC Media-Vigilance Commissions. Mons. Philip Njeralakkatt presided over the Seminar. Rev. Dr. Paul Thelekkat presented the theme ‘Church in the Media’. Smt. Nisha Jeby (Manorama News), Mr. Jacobi (Deepika), Mr. Jijo Cyriac (Mathrubhumi) and Rev. Dr. Kuriakose Mundadan (Satyadeepam) took part in the panel discussions. 80 October 29, Tuesday Family Apostolate Directors Meeting Fr. Jose Kottayil, Secretary KCBC Family commission, presided over. The following decisions made: 1) Give emphasis to family centered pastoral ministry, for that organize training for priests, sisters and layman. 2) Publish the church documents on marriage and the family. 3) Publish family policy immediatly. October 31, Thursday Grand Finale of the Rosary Month The solemn rosary recitation, which began at POC on 22 October, was concluded on 31 October. On these days, the Rosary was recited by six groups. Each of these groups recited rosary separately on their appointed days. And on 31 all these groups jointly recited the Rosary. Each group was assigned to decorate specific spots. The Solemn Rosary procession, which set off from the Reception, encircled the four spots and eventually reached the Chapel. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara consecrated the POC family to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, reciting the prayer of consecration and concluded the ceremony with a solemn benediction. NOVEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 November 6, Wednesday Textbook Committee Meeting The textbook committee meeting was held at St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 4.30pm. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara presided over. Chapters 4, 7 and 10 of the text of 8 standard were read out and revised. Anu Pinhero was congratulated for preparing the textbook in an excellent manner. The meeting also discussed to implement the layout designing of the finished textbooks without delay. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Dr. Edward Edezhath, Dr. C.D. Sebastian, Anu Pinhero and Sr. Tessy Antony MSST participated in the meeting. The meeting came to an end by 7.20 pm. November 8-10, Friday-Sunday FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar Fides: three-day Year of Faith seminar held at Little Flower Auditorium was inaugurated by Mar Poly Kannukkadan, Bishop of Irinjalakuda. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Chev. Dr. Primus Perincherry and Mr. K.S. Kuriakose rendered speeches. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiedath, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkatt, Rev. Dr. Gregory R.B., Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambul, Rev. Dr. Martin Kallunkal and Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveettil delivered lectures on various topics. The Seminar, which began on Friday evening ended on Sunday at 1 pm. November 8, Friday Vishwasam Jeevichavar Released Bishop Mar Pauli Kannukkadan released the revised edition of the Vishwasam Jeevichar the textbook prepared by the POC for the catechetical teachers and students by handing on its first cop to Chev. Dr. Preemus Perumcherry. It is a book about saints, blesseds, venerables and servants of God from Kerala. It contains the biographical sketch of 30 persons from Kerala, who lived a virtuous life of faith. November 12, Tuesday Special School Managers’ Assembly Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, Major Archbishop of Syro Malabar Church, inaugurated the South Indian Assembly of Association for Catholic Rehabilitation Centres of India (ACRCA), the national organization of the Rehabilitation Movements of Catholic Church, held at POC. Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatius, Chairman of CBCI Education Commission Chairman, presided over the meeting. Dr. Abraham Viruthukulangara, Archbishop of Nagpur, delivered the keynote address. Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatius inaugurated the website for Special schools. Rev. Fr. Jose Panthaplamthottiyil, CMI Prior General, Sr. Ancilla, Mother General of Sacred Heart Congregation, Rev. Fr. Romance Antony, Secretary JPD Commission, Sr. Chaithanya and Sr. Victoria spoke during the occasion. 81 NOVEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 November 16, Saturday Catholic ITI Managers’ Meeting The first executive meeting of the Kerala Catholic Industrial Training Institutes' Management Association (KCITIMA) was held at the POC. The meeting presided by Bro. K T Mathew, entrusted the executive members to contact the other Catholic ITIs to cooperate with the KCITIMA. It was decided to collect a registration fee of Rs. 1500 from all the member institutions and a subscription fee according to the number of students. The subscription fee was fixed from Rs. 500 for 100 students in order to attract institutions. November 17, Sunday Media Day Celebrations Mr. Leo Thadeus, renowned Film Director, inaugurated 47 World Communication Day Celebrations held at the Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC under the aegis of KCBC Media Commission. Rev. Dr. George Kurukkoor, Assistant Director of POC, presided over. Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Secretary of KCBC Media Commission, Mr. Peter Puthua, Playwright and Mr. Sijo Painadath spoke on the occasion. It was followed by a drama, ‘St. Sebastianose’ enacted by Elroy Communications, Angamaly. November 19, Tuesday Western Ghats Consultation Meeting Consultation on the Union Government’s move to implement Kasturirangan Report, which might create dangerous impacts on the human lives, settled in 82 NOVEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Western Ghats. The meeting conducted in the aegis of KCBC at 4 pm, was presided over by Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, President of KCBC. Mar Mathew Anikuzhikattil, Mar Mathew Arackal, Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil, Mar Jacob Manathodath, Mar Jacob Madathikandathil, Dr. Stephan Athipozhiyil, Mar Jose Puthenveettil, Joseph Mar Thomas, Mar Philipos Mar Stephanos, Rev. Fr. Panakkal, Vicar General Kozhikode and Rev. Fr. Eugene Pereira, Vicar General Thiruvananthapuram Latin Archdiocese, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara took part in the meeting. The proposals in the Government’s order were discussed and future action plans were formulated. November 20, Wednesday Joint Meeting of the Commission Secretaries A joint meet of KCBC Commission Secretaries and the Secretaries of Individual Churches was held at the POC. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of KCBC, inaugurated the meeting at 10 am. Archbishop Dr. Francis Kallarakkal, Vice President of KCBC, Archbishop Thomas Mar Kurilos, KCBC Secretary General, Mar Bosco Puthur, Curia Bishop of Syro Malabar Church and Rev. Fr. Francis Xavier, Deputy Secretary of KRLCBC rendered speeches on the occasion. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of KCBC, gave the input session. It was followed by a group discussion. The meeting, in which 83 members including the Commission Secretaries of Syro Malabar, Latin and Malankara Churches participated, came to an end by 4 pm. It was decided to submit the suggestions of the meeting to the KCBC. November 22-24, Friday-Sunday FIDES: Year of Faith Seminar Archbishop Francis Kallarakal inaugurated Fides: three-day Year of Faith seminar held at Little Flower Auditorium. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr. George Danavelil, Rev. Fr. 83 NOVEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Jose Kottayil, Rev. Dr. Jose Puthiedath, Rev. Dr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Dr. Jimmy Poochakkatt, Rev. Dr. Gregory R.B., Rev. Dr. Mathew Illathuparambul, Rev. Dr. Martin Kallunkal and Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveettil delivered lectures on various topics. The Seminar, which began on Friday evening ended on Sunday at 1 pm. November 24, Sunday Solemn Conclusion of the Year of Faith The year of faith initiated globally on 11 October 2012, had a grand concluding ceremony at the POC. Bishop Mar Bosco Puthur, Year of Faith Committee Chairman of the KCBC and Curia Bishop of Syro Malabar Church, lowered the flag of the Year of Faith. Bishop Mar Bosco Puthur was the main celebrant in the Eucharistic Celebration that followed. The faithful, who carried cross, the Bible, Rosary and various books published in the year of faith, accompanied the priests in the grand procession to the altar. Girls clad like Christ the King and angels moved in front of them. PTI students at POC led the prayer service in the context of the implementation of Kasturirangan and Gadgil Reports. Pope Francis specially blessed the Rosary, which was solemnly carried on the procession. The Rosary, which had been prayerfully 84 NOVEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 passed on from zones to zones of Jesus Youth, was eventually handed over to Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara. Rev. Fr. Shibu Xavier OCD, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil, Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Rev. Fr. Joshy Mayyattil, Rev. Fr. Jacob Palackappilly and Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil were at the helm of the ceremonies. November 30, Saturday Logos Quiz State Level Competition Archbishop Soosa Pakiam inaugurated All Kerala meeting of the Logos Quiz 2013. 586 participants, who secured first three ranks in the competitions held in 33 dioceses across 5000 examination centres in 6 age group categories, contested at the State Level Quiz Contest. The written examination was conducted from 10 am to 11 am. Ten contestants who secured the highest marks in the written examination were selected from the age groups they belonged. The final round began at 5.30 pm. 85 DECEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 December 1, Sunday Logos Quiz Grand Finale Fourteenth Logos Quiz 2013 Grand Finale meeting was held at POC and Archbishop Dr. Soosa Pakiam inaugurated it. Ms Mercy George, from Irinjalakuda Diocese, emerged the Logos Prathibha in the Grand Finale of Logos Quiz, outclassing other five contestants. Mercy received a prize consisting an air ticket to the Holy Land, Ever-rolling trophy and cash prize from Archbishop. Ms Alphonsa Dennis (Pala Diocese), Anila Sojan, Ambily Leo (Thrissur Diocese), Rose Mary Jiji (Kothamangalam Diocese) and Valsamma Scaria (Changanacherry Archdiocese) are the other contestants of the Grand Finale. They were presented with Gold medals, Cash Awards and certificates by the Archbishop. December 5, Thursday CHAI Kerala Board Meeting The CHAI Kerala Board meeting and Common Purchase committee meeting, was held at St. Peter’s Hall, POC at 10.30 am. Rev. Fr. Sunil Chirayankandath, the President, delivered the welcome address. Rev. Fr. Anto Challissery presented the Policy Draft of Common Purchase. In the meeting, it was decided to put the Policy draft to discussion, revise it accordingly, and to send the revised draft to the Bishops for approval. December 7, Saturday Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission Meeting The annual general assembly of KCBC Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission was held at St. Mark Hall, POC. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, KCBC Deputy Secretary General, presided over. Rev. Dr. Albert Nambiaparambil delivered the keynote address. Colonel D’Souza, Prof. Ransamma Paul, Rev. Dr. Zacharias Paranilam, Rev. Dr. Jose Marattil, Rev. Fr. George Thekkadayil, Rev. Fr. Dominic Thoomkuzhy, Prof. K.O. John, and Mr. A.O. Augustine rendered speeches. Rev. Fr. Roby Kannanchira CMI, Secretary of Dialogue and Ecumenism Commission, welcomed the guests and Mr. Jebin Jose expressed thanks to all the attendees. 86 DECEMBER December 8, Sunday KLM Leaders’ Meeting POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Mr. Joy Gothuruth, State President of KLM, inaugurated the Kerala Labour Movement Leaders’ meeting. Mr. Joseph Jude, Chairman of UTA and National Secretary of Workers India Federation, presided over. Rev. Fr. George Thomas Nirappukalayil, Secretary of KCBC Labour Commission and Director of KLM, delivered the keynote address. Mr. Shaju Antony, General Secretary of KLM, Mr. Gheevarghese Kulathinal and Mr. A.J. Sabu spoke during the meeting. December 10, Tuesday Kerala Catholic Council Meeting The annual general body of the Kerala Catholic Council, the common pastoral council of Kerala Catholic Church, was held at Mother Teresa Auditorium of the POC. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of KCBC, presided over the meeting. The key theme of discussion was ‘The Church need to be renewed to renew the society’. Rev. Dr. Varghese Vallikkat, Rev. Fr. Jose Kottayil and Adv. V.V. Joshy led the classes. Archbishop Dr. Francis Kallarakal, Vice President of KCBC and Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, Secretary General of KCBC, spoke. Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis, Major Archbishop of Syro Malankara Church presented a Holy Bible and warmly welcomed Mar Jose Puthenveettil, the new Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, who was participating in the meeting for the first time. Dr. Mary Regina, the newly elected Vice President of Catholic Council of India, was felicitated during the meeting. It was decided to submit the proposals of the meeting to the KCBC. December 10, Tuesday POC Commission Meeting The joint meeting of the POC Commission and KCBC Executive Committee was held at the St. Peter’s Hall of the POC at 5pm. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Mar Andrews Thazhath, the President of the KCBC and the Chairman of the POC Commission presided over the meeting. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal, the Vice President of the KCBC, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos the Secretary General of the KCBC and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of the POC participated the meeting. Meeting discussed the matters connected with the POC and finalised the agenda of the forthcoming KCBC meeting. December 10-12, Tuesday-Thursday KCBC December Session The KCBC December session was held from 10 to 12 at the POC. The Bishops’ Council decided to work hand in hand with other religious communities in common matters pertaining to the State of Kerala, towards the common good of the society. It also decided to ensure the safety of human beings, while implementing measures for the conservation of the environment. The Assembly called for an immediate action from the part of the Union Government to enlist Dalit Christians in the Scheduled Caste, and to withdraw 87 DECEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Staff fixation order. The Assembly also arrived at a decision to urge the State Government to form a Special Corporation for creating and implementing plans that would aid the total progress of Christians in Kerala. 37 bishops participated in the meeting and the Council elected new office bearers. New Office Bearers for the KCBC Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop of Syro Malankara Church, was elected as the new President of KCBC, while Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam of Changanacherry Archdiocese was elected as the Vice President. The new KCBC Secretary General is Dr. Joseph Kariyil, Bishop of Kochi. 88 DECEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 The other new electees are the following: Most Rev. Dr. Maria Calista Soosa Pakiam, Archbishop of Thiruvananthapuram Latin Archdiocese, is the Chairman of KCBC Bible Commission. Mar Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop of Trissur, is the Chairman of Education Commission, Thomas Mar Koorilos, Archbishop of Thiruvalla Archdiocese is the Chairman of Justice, Peace and Development Commission, Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, the Auxiliary Bishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, is the Chairman of Family Commission, Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil, Bishop of Thamarassery, is the Chairman of Temperance Commission, Dr. Sebastian Thekethecheril, Bishop of Vijayapuram Diocese, is the Chairman of Media Commission, Dr. Vincent Samuel, Bishop of Neyyatinkara, is the Chairman of Vocation Commission and Mar Mathew Arackal, Bishop of Kanjirappally Diocese, is the Episcopal Advisor to INFARM. December 12, Thursday POC Commission Meeting The joint meeting of the POC Commission and KCBC Executive Committee was held at the POC at 2.30pm. His Eminence Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos the President of the KCBC and the Chairman of the POC Commission presided over the meeting. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr Joseph Kariyil the Secretary General of the KCBC and Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of the POC participated the meeting. Meeting discussed the matters connected with the POC and finalised the Vice Chairmen of the KCBC Commissions. December 12, Thursday Jesus Fraternity Executive Committee Meeting The meeting of Jesus Fraternity Executive Committee commenced at POC at 2.30 pm. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Kodiveetil presided over. Rev. Fr. Tony Kallookkaran, Director of Ernakulam Archdiocese, welcomed the attendees. Rev. Sr. Rossy presented the report of the previous meeting. Mr. Joy opined that Christmas Cards and ‘Vimochanam’ are to be sent to the Jail Superintendents. Fr. Yesudas thanked Bishop Dr. Stephan Athipozhiyil who steps down as the Chairman. December 13, Friday KCSL Executive Committee Meeting Literary Fest and Prize Distribution Ceremony of Kerala Catholic Students League was held at Little Flower Auditorium, POC. Rev. Fr. Yesudas Pazhampilly delivered the welcome address. Mr. Kuriachan Puthukkattil, State President, presided over. Mr. Jose Anoop M.S. presented the report. Rev. Fr. James Makkil, Director of KCSL Idukki diocese, released the Festival poster of the KCSL Fest to be held at Idukki diocese. Mr. T.M. Abraham, Vice Chairman of Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy, distributed the prizes. December 14, Saturday CLC Leadership Training Programme 89 DECEMBER POC ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios, the Vice Chairman of KCBC Youth Commission, inaugurated the one-day leadership training camp of Christian Life Community (CLC), which was held at St. Luke Hall, POC at 10 am. Mr. Jijo V. George presided over. Rev. Fr. Roy Nedumthanam, the State Promoter, delivered the introductory address and Rev. Dr. Jose Edasserry, Director of Naipunya, rendered the keynote address. Mr. Dennis K. Antony, President of Block Panchayat, Mr. Martin Joseph, State General Secretary, Mr. Jayakumar, Treasurer, Mr. Reetadas and Mr. Vinesh. J. and Mr. Shobby Paul, the rendered speeches. December 14, Saturday CML Executive Committee Meeting The executive committee meeting of Cherupushpa Mission League was held at POC at 10 am. Mr. Jose Puthiyaparambil, the State President, presided over. Rev. Fr. Mathew Mulayolil delivered the welcome address. Mr. Benny Muthanat, State Secretary, presented the Report and the Accounts. Awards for the best branch, zone and diocese of the year 2012-2013 were announced. Kallar of Idukki Diocese, Kothamangalam of Kothamangalam Diocese and Chedikkulam of Thalasserry Diocese were declared eligible for the best branch awards, while Kuruvilangad of Pala Diocese, Battery of Mananthavady Diocese and Kothamangalam of Kothamangalam Diocese received the best Zone awards. Best Diocese Awards went to Mananthavady Diocese, Kothamangalam Diocese and Thalasseri Archdiocese. December 21, Saturday Christmas Celebrations at the POC The Christmas celebrations at the POC started with the Eucharistic celebration at 9.30 am. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Director of the POC was the main celebrant. The public function began at 11 am at Little Flower Auditorium. The Director of the POC cut the cake and delivered Christmas message. Christmas gifts were presented to the staff members of POC and PTI students. The Students of Pastoral Theology and Msc Psychology staged various cultural programmes. December 29, Sunday KLM State Committee Meeting 90 State Committee meeting of Kerala Labour Movement was held at St. Paul’s Hall of the POC. Mr. Joy Gothuruth, the President, presided over the meeting. Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil, the Director, delivered the message, and presented the Report of KLM’s activities in the year 2013. Decisions were taken on the preparation of a petition to be submitted to the Labour Minister and a Circular on the Shares of Forums. Rev. Sr. Ushas, the newly appointed Co-ordinator to KLM’s office, was cordially received. POC FLOWER GARDEN WON FIRST PRIZE IN COCHIN FLOWER SHOW 2014 91 POC VEGETABLE GARDEN WON FIRST PRIZE IN COCHIN FLOWER SHOW 2014 92 To Serve in Truth and Love A Brief History of the Pastoral Orientation Centre T he Pastoral Orientation Centre (POC) is the Secretariat of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) and the regional pastoral centre of the Catholic Church in Kerala. The POC under the auspices of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council is a sign and source of the dynamism and unity of the Catholic Church of Kerala. It is the common abode of the three ritual Churches - the Latin, the Syro-Malabar and the Syro-Malankara and its mission is to be at the service of all the people of Kerala. The POC was inaugurated on 19 February 1968 in order to realize the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, which was a clarion call for renewal within the Church and dialogue with all sections of human society. publication of texts for value based education, the Bible and regional translation of the official documents of the Apostolic See, etc. The POC strives to provide proper orientation to the different catholic organizations, by promoting initiatives and providing appropriate guidance based on the Gospel of Jesus, relevantly restated by the Second Vatican Council. The Pastoral Orientation Centre is the fruit of a strenuous and sincere effort from the part of the Church of Kerala to orient and co-ordinate the various pastoral activities of the different dioceses, parishes, institutions and individuals in view of a total pastoral mission of the Church in Kerala. The beginning of the POC was in a humble and unassuming mode. The renewal spirit of the Second Vatican Council moved the minds and hearts of the leaders of the Church in Kerala. The idea of a regional pastoral centre for Kerala was by no means new. The need to orient and coordinate the various pastoral activities of the different dioceses, parishes, institutions and individuals in view of the total pastoral mission of the Church in Kerala was keenly felt by many. However, for various reasons the move to realize this vitally urgent need was made only relatively late. The Mission The mission of the POC is to empower the Church in Kerala for a renewed and committed Christian life and witness. It is realized through proper conscientisation and co-ordination of activities of various commissions and departments through pastoral assessment, communication and formation in leadership, evangelization, ecumenism, and interfaith dialogue, and social commitment, with special emphasis on The KCBC Commission for the Pastoral Orientation Centre has the function of coordinating the various apostolic activities of the commissions and departments, which have their central offices at the POC. Humble Beginning An inter diocesan consultation held at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary Mangalapuzha under the presidentship of Fr. Michael Angel OCD, the then 93 An executive committee consisting of Very Rev. Fr. Michael Angel OCD, Fr. Paul Kattissery and Fr. Joseph Kannath was set up to seek ways and means for the realization of the project. The committee was also entrusted with the task of contacting the ordinaries who were not represented in the meeting and to seek their approbation and collaboration. Fr. Joseph Kannath personally contacted nine more Bishops of Kerala. Rector of the seminary, marked the beginning of a series of discussions towards the establishment of a regional pastoral centre. In pursuance of the consultation meeting Rev. Fr. Joseph Kannath from the Archdiocese of Trichur was deputed to carry out the project. Fr. Joseph Kannath together with Rev. Fr. Michael Angel OCD the Rector of St. Joseph Pontifical Seminary Mangalapuzha and Rt. Rev. Dr. George Alappatt the bishop of Trichur Diocese made the preliminary planning to start a Centre. For this purpose Rev. Fr. Michael Angel OCD on 3 December 1966 and Rt. Rev. Dr. George Alappatt on 6 December 1966 wrote letters to all bishops in Kerala. Inter Diocesan Meetings 94 Later Fr. Michael Angel OCD and Fr. Joseph Kannath convened another consultative meeting of the diocesan representatives. The delegates felt Alwaye to be an ideal place for the centre both on account of its unique geographical position and the proximity to the Pontifical Seminary and other religious institutions. A temporary advisory body was formed from among the delegates with Very Rev. Fr. Michael OCD as President, and Fr. Paul Kattissery (Cochin), Fr. Sebastian Mankuzhikari (Ernakulam), Fr. John Vallamattam (Kothamangalam), Fr. Sebastian Eerathara (Calicut) and Fr. Joseph Kannath (Trichur) as members. As the proposal was favourably received, again the meeting of the diocesan representatives was convened on 28 March 1967 at the Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye with Very Rev. Fr. Michael Angel OCD in the chair. The Archdioceses of Verapoly, Ernakulam and Changanacherry and the dioceses of Alleppey, Quilon and Trichur were also represented in the meeting. The advisory body was reconstituted with Very Rev. Fr. Michael OCD as President, and Very Rev. Msgr. Emmanuel Lopez (Verapoly), Very Rev. Msgr. Reynolds Purackal (Alleppey), Fr. Sebastian Mankuzhikari, Fr. Mathew Nadakal (Changanacherry), Fr. S. Eerathara, Fr. Paul Kattissery, Fr. John Vallamattam, Fr. Alphonse Thundil (Quilon), Fr. Joseph Kannath and Fr. Augustine Xavier (Trivandrum) as members. The executive committee was formed with Very Rev. Fr. Michael OCD as President, Fr. Paul Kattissery and Fr. Joseph Kannath as conveners and Very Rev. Msgr. Emmanuel Lopez and Fr. Sebastian Mankuzhikari as members. A committee consisting of Fr. Joseph Kannath, Very Rev. Msgr. Emmanuel Lopez and Fr. Sebastian Mankuzhikari was entrusted with the task of locating a suitable site. Significant Landmark Another great landmark in the history for POC took place during the meeting of the diocesan directors and professors of Catechetics, and the members of CBCI Catechetical Commission held at the National Centre, Bangalore from 25 to 27 November, 1967, in which the representatives from Kerala participated. The delegates from Kerala unanimously decided to make a definite step towards the establishment of a regional pastoral centre, and to submit a formal appeal to the president and members of Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council for the approval. Catechetical Seminar The endeavours leaped into a new phase with a catechetical seminar organized by the executive committee from 25 to 28 of October, 1967. 130 persons including priests and religious from 16 dioceses and 12 religious congregations participated in the seminar. Rev. Fr. Johannes Höfinger SJ of the East Asian Pastoral Institute, Manila, the principal lecturer in the seminar, highlighted the salient features of modern catechesis and elucidated the relevance of a pastoral orientation centre in Kerala. A special meeting of the diocesan catechetical directors, religious representatives and group leaders of the seminar held on 27 October 1967, warmly endorsed the move for a pastoral centre. Very Rev. Fr. Dominic OCD was elected as the new President in place of Very Rev. Fr. Michael Angel OCD, who had been elected as the Superior General of the Carmelite Order. The decisions made in the meeting were the following: a two year course to be conducted for catechists, to prepare textbooks and teachers’ guides based on a syllabus common to all the dioceses in Kerala and to procure audio-visual aids for catechetical needs, preparing an up-to-date Malayalam version for the Bible, setting up of a marriage counselling bureau, establishing a fullfledged library and documentation centre at POC and to engage in socio-religious research for acquiring scientific information to aid the pastoral activities in Kerala. Fr. Kannath was entrusted with the task of obtaining the approbation of Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) for the regional pastoral centre. As directed by the meeting at Bangalore, the convener submitted a formal request to the KCBC regarding the setting up of the Pastoral Orientation Centre, along with an outline of its objectives and working. The KCBC meeting held at Verapoly Archbishop’s House, Ernakulam on 11 January 1968, considered the request and adopted the momentous decision to set up a regional Pastoral Orientation Centre for Kerala. On 2 February 1968 the President of the KCBC His Grace Mot Rev. Dr. Joseph Attipetty, then the Metropolitan Archbishop of Verapoly signed the resolution of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council meeting to start the Pastoral Orientation Centre. The KCBC decided the centre to be governed by the statutes to be drawn up and approved by the hierarchy, and set up a commission to start the centre and draw up the statutes. The Council also appointed a Commission to implement the project. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Benedict Mar Gregorios the Metropolitan Archbishop of Trivandrum Malankara Archdiocese was appointed the first Chairman of the POC Commission. Inauguration of the POC The long cherished dream of Church in Kerala was fulfilled when His Eminence Macmillan Cardinal de Furstenberg of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches inaugurated the POC on 19 February 1968. This event took place at a solemn and colourful function held in Fr. Zacharias Memorial Hall of the St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Mangalapuzha. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Caprio, Apostolic Nuncio to India, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Attipetty, the President of the KCBC and seven bishops and other distinguished dignitaries were present for the inaugural function of the POC. The POC started its functioning in one of the buildings in the seminary campus. Fr. Joseph Kannath was 95 important decision that the POC must have its own site and building situated in the central Kerala and at easily accessible place for all. The meeting also decided to realise immediately the said decision. appointed its first Director. Thence, the growth of POC was remarkable. POC was entrusted with the task of conducting the Kerala Regional Seminar, which took place at Alwaye from 26 to 31 December 1968. The POC Shifted to Manjummel Ever since its inception the POC had been carrying on its activities in St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Mangalapuzha, Alwaye. The staff and students of the seminary helped the growth of the Pastoral Orientation Centre with great solicitude. The tempo and the volume of its activities had grown to such an extent that it was obliged to look for an independent habitat of its own. Meanwhile the Carmelite Fathers of Manjummel generously offered to put at the disposal of POC a specious building, for one year. On 22 March 1969, POC was shifted from Alwaye Seminary to Manjummel. On 15 August 1969 the POC officially launched its residential theology course. His Eminence Joseph Cardinal Parecattil inaugurated the course. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Kelanthara, the Archbishop of Verapoly presided over the meeting. Rev. Dr. Amalorpavadas, the Director of the NBCLC gave the keynote address. The third POC Commission meeting held on 16 February 1970 at St. Teresa’s College decided to register the POC as a society. The POC Shifted to Kaloor According to the previous agreement the POC had to vacate the house at Manjummel by the end of March 1970. The POC was shifted to a rented building at Kaloor on 31 March 1970. The participants of the theology course were accommodated in the school building attached to the convent of St. Francis Xavier belonging to the Franciscan Missionaries Mary (FMM). The KCBC Commission for the POC held its second meeting at Manjummel on 21 June 1969 under the presidentship of His Grace Benedict Mar Gregorios, the Chairman. The commission meeting made an Meanwhile negotiations for the purchase of a site within the Cochin Corporation limits were making satisfactory progress. Finally a plot of nearly 2.11 acres at Palarivattom was purchased as the permanent site for the POC. Later some adjacent plots were added bringing the total area to 3 acres 94 cents. The POC at Palarivattom 96 The hand of God is at work in the POC is a beacon of hope for an illustrious future for the Church in Kerala. The foundation stone of the permanent building of the POC was blessed by the His Eminence Maximilian Cardinal de Fürstenberg on the occasion of the inauguration of the POC at Mangalapuzha Seminary Alwaye. His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Benedict Mar Gregorios ceremonially laid it at the new site at Palarivattom on 5 June 1970. The construction work of the permanent buildings of the POC commenced soon after the laying of foundation stone. Through sunshine and rain the work made steady progress and within a space of six months three storeyed hostels and a large single storeyed block for kitchen and dining hall were completed. 12 December 1970 was a red letter day in the annals of the POC, making successful termination of a long and anxious search for a home of its own. His Eminence Joseph Cardinal Parecattil, Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly formally inaugurated the permanent establishment of the POC on 12 December 1970. His Excellency Jerome Fernandez bishop of Quilon solemnly blessed the buildings. The liturgical service and other ceremonies were befitting the occasion and at the same time had a traditional touch of the native Church. Even though the inauguration of the permanent quarters was held on 12 December 1970 the POC establishment was shifted to it only on 29 December. Everyone felt a sense of satisfaction and joy in having found a safe anchorage after a long period of wandering. Life on the new campus began with an annual retreat centred on the theme of charity. Palarivattom Community Development Trust (PCDT) Palarivattom Community Development Trust (PCDT) is the social welfare centre of the POC established in the year 1978. The POC bought 1.2 acres of land in 1978 for the purpose of the social activities of the PCDT. The PCDT meant an overall development of poor people residing in and around Palarivattom. The PCDT is a registered society and the society is working with the sincere co-operation of some well-wishers. The Director of the POC is the President of the PCDT. It was established to promote the economic, social, educational, moral and cultural advancement of the people of Palarivattom and adjoining areas. The centre aims at fostering social consciousness, cooperative spirit and sense of civic duty among the people of the area by encouraging the habit of self-help and thrift among the people. (1) Tailoring Centre, (2) Lourdes Health Clinic run by the support of Lourdes Hospital Ernakulum, (3) ARDSI dementia day care centre. (4) Geriatric training programme for six months by Central Government of India hosted by ARDSI, (5) A National helpline for dementia by ARDSI, newly started and functioning in the centre, (6) The PCDT also concentrates on home visits, (7) Organic Farming, (8) Ornaments Making, (9) Screen Printing and (10) Fabric Printing are functioning in the PCDT campus of the POC. Catechetical Renewal One of the important concerns of the POC from its inception has been to initiate steps towards a renewal of catechetics in the Church in Kerala. To this end the POC undertook the publication of catechism textbooks and training of catechism teachers according to modern trends. In 1969 the POC published its first series of catechism textbooks and teachers’ guides for the first seven grades. The guides for the following grades were published subsequently. In the same year the POC started a bulletin with the same purpose. This bulletin later became a magazine and in 1979 Talenthu the adult catechetical magazine was originated. In 1972 the POC published a moral science textbook series for schools. In order to coordinates the catechetical ministries of the Centre the KCBC established the Catechetical Commission and it started its functioning in the POC from 1978 onwards. Later in 1999 the KCBC decided to establish the catechetical commission for each of the individual Churches and the Catechetical Commission of the POC ceased to exist. The POC as the Secretariat of the KCBC The POC started its functioning in 1968 as the common Pastoral Centre of the regional Church in Kerala but from the very inception of the POC the Centre has been assisting the KCBC with secretarial and administrative functions. Whenever the KCBC initiated Commissions and Departments for the Bishops’ Council, all were started their operations from the POC. In 1972 the POC started the Bible translation work and the initial project of the Bible translation was to prepare and ecumenical bible for entire Christians in Kerala. Later due some reasons the POC limited the translation to Catholics. Meanwhile the POC got permission from the Bishops’ Council to translate the Bible into Malayalam and to prepare a Catholic version of the holy Bible. In order to carry on with the Bible 97 translation project and to accelerate the Bible apostolate of the Church in Kerala, the KCBC established the Bible Commission on 23 October 1976 and it has also been operating from the POC. On 13 December 1977 His Eminence Joseph Cardinal Parecattil handed over the first copy of the Malayalam translation of the POC Bible New Testament to the renowned writer Shri. K P Kesawa Menon. In 1981 on December 28 the POC in collaboration with the KCBC Bible Commission published the Malayalam translation of the complete Bible. From 1976 January 21 onwards the Media Commission of the KCBC started its functioning from the POC. From 1980 onwards when the His Eminence George Cardinal Alencherry, the Major Archbishop of the SyroMalabar Church was the Director of the POC the secretarial section of the KCBC became more organised and the KCBC meetings were shifted to the POC. In 1973 the Church in Kerala initiated a youth organisation and in 1978 it came to known as Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM). Even though the KCBC Youth Commission has its own office from 2001 onwards its office started functioning in the POC buildings. In 1983 the KCBC coordinated the family apostolate in the dioceses and in 1990 established the Family Commission and started its functioning in the POC in 2005. When the KCBC meetings were shifted to the POC from 1980 onwards the POC was facing constrains in accommodation due to the lack of sufficient rooms. In 1993 when Bishop Joseph Kariyil of Cochin was the Director, the POC started the 98 construction of Santhome Bhavan and it was completed on 31 May 1994. From 2001 September 25 onwards the central office of the Jesus Fraternity of the Justice Peace Development Commission of the KCBC started functioning in the POC. The Health Commission office and Catholic Health Association of India office (CHAI) started its functioning from 2004 onwards. The KCBC initiated Social Harmony and Vigilance Commission on 15 January 2007 and started its functioning in the POC. The Education Commission of the KCBC has a long history but it started its central office in the POC building on 6 April 2006. The Kerala Catholic Students League (KCSL) had its office from 1989 onwards. The Religious Commission of the KCBC and Kerala Catholic Major Superiors’ association (KCMS) shifted their central office to the POC on 1 December 2010. Now as the secretariat of the KCBC the POC coordinates the 21 Commissions and 24 Departments of the KCBC. The dual functions of the POC as the Secretariat of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council and the common pastoral centre of the regional Church echo the contemporary history of the Kerala Catholic Church. The numerous and valuable programmes organised by the POC manifest the incontrovertible importance and role of the POC in unifying the three ritual Churches in Kerala. The history of the POC as the Secretariat of the KCBC and the common Pastoral Centre of the Church is the history of the Kerala Catholic Church. Fr. Stephen Alathara Deputy Secretary General KCBC & Director, POC THE REVISED MORAL SCIENCE TEXT BOOKS FOR STANDARD I TO X PASTORAL ORIENTATION CENTRE Secretariat, Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council P.B. No. 2251, Palarivattom, Kochi-682 025, Ph: 0484-2805815, 2805722