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SUBHAVNAIssue: 11 Jan - Feb 2010Diocesan Newsletter

Diocese of Calcutta (CNI)For private circulation only

1SUBHAVNA Jan - Feb 2010

A “Conference for Bishops in the Early our bishop took the opportunity to Years of their Episcopal Ministry”, was liaison and meet with friends and

thheld between 24 of January 2010 and m e m b e r s o f t h e e c u m e n i c a l

th community in this part of the world. 4 of February 2010 at the Canterbury th

Cathedral International Study Centre, On the 7 of February 2010, Bishop United Kingdom. The Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas preached and celebrated at the Biswas, Bishop of Calcutta Diocese, St. John's Notting Hill church in CNI, was formally invited to participate London. The next day he met with in this conference along with 28 other Bishop Alastair, the Bishop of Bishops from all over the world. Derbyshire. After the conference at Canterbury,

Bishop Ashoke Biswas attends conference in UK

Rededication of the Oxford Mission Chapel

Continued on: Pg 3

Continued on: Pg 3

Continued on: Pg 7

St. James' School Kolkata took part in the Modern World Debate, held in

rd thDubai, U.A.E., from the 23 to 25 of January, 2010. The event was held at the Dubai Modern High School. A total of ten schools took part in the final event. Four schools from U.A.E. were selected through an elimination round, which included the host - Dubai M o d e r n H i g h S c h o o l . The other schools which took part in the meet were Gems Sheffield School, England, Our Own English School Dubai, Our Own English School - Sharjah, La Martiniere School for Girls - Kolkata; La Martiniere School for Boys - Kolkata; Doon School - Dehradun and Jumeriah College.

A 'Rededication and Thanksgiving iron sheets and the walls and floor Service' was held in the recently were done with brick lime surki mortar. renovated and refurbished Oxford Since its inception in 1882, it has been

thMission Chapel on the 6 of January the sacred place of daily worship, for 2010 at 3:30 pm on the 'Epiphany Day'. the Brothers, Sisters, hostel boys and

staff members of the Oxford Mission.The chapel constructed by the Brotherhood, more than a hundred Over the years, weather and prolonged years ago, initially was thatched with Usage, had taken its toll on the chapel, “Hogla” tree leaves and had false which required major repairs. With durma ceiling with mud walls. Later the roof was replaced with corrugated

Kolkata: This year the Union Chapel Church (CNI) at 137 Lenin Sarani, celebrated its Harvest festival on

thSunday the 7 of February 2010. A b o u t 2 0 m e m b e r s o f t h e congregation took part in selling the items. In the year 2008 collections from the harvest festival amounted to RS. 47,000, which increased to Rs. 80,000 in 2009. This year however the church registered a commendable and record collection of Rs. 1,80,000. <

Harvest Festival at Union Chapel

St. James’ School wins Modern World Debate

Bishops participating at the conference

2SUBHAVNA

EDITORIAL

The Editorial Board specially thanks Mrs. Shipra Dasgupta for assisting in the Bengali Translations for this issue.

Design Layout:Trishikh Dasgupta, Programme Coordinator, Diocese of Calcutta (CNI)

Printed by:Pranab Bhattacharjee at Kanika Press, 64, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kolkata - 700 009. Ph.: 22417336

Editorial Board:Mr. Terence Ireland Rev. Shreeraj MohantyMrs. Pauline Mukherjee Rev. Swarup BarMrs. Isabella Simon Rev. Shyamal PalMr. Supurna Sarkar Rev. Argho BiswasMr. Trishikh Dasgupta Rev. James Gomes

Rev. Nigel Pope

Published by:The. Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas, Bishop of Calcutta (CNI), from Bishop’s House, 51, Chowringhee Road, Kolkata - 700 071.

Send in your contributory articles along with photographs to:

SUBHAVNA, Bishop’s House, 51, Chowringhee Road,

Kolkata - 700 071or mail to:

[email protected]

'Father, forgive them!'

If 'faith' and 'righteousness' are the two pillars on which the Church and Christianity stands, then the arch between them is 'forgiveness'. Our 'guru' Lord Jesus Christ, had shown us the way under extreme conditions.

His second utterance from the Cross was “Father, forgive them! They do not know what they are doing.” This living eternal message of forgiveness is our source of strength and inspiration.

Often in our daily lives, it becomes difficult to forgive others. Though, ever since our childhood, we have been uttering “…forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” Forgiveness is precious and powerful. There is abundant joy in honestly forgiving others.

From the Cross, Jesus Christ had pleaded to the Almighty Father for forgiveness of the sins of each one of us. In turn, He tells us to forgive others 'seventy times seven'. In other words, we should forgive each time we are hurt. And for sure, each time we shall be blessed by our Risen Lord, who wants us to tread along the way shown by Him. In the words of poet Rabindranath Tagore, “God among stars waits for man to light his lamps”.

- Mr. Supurna Sarkar

The Editorial Board has the full discretion of editing contributory articles

Jan - Feb 2010

To,The Rt. Rev. Ashoke BiswasBishop of Calcutta Diocese (CNI)Bishhop's House, 51, Chowringhee Road,Kolkata 700 071 Date: 08.03.2010

Sub: Letter of appreciation for the permission of fieldwork at Christian Missionary Schools

Dear Father,

Please accept my gratitude for offering the access to collect data successfully from th th

St. Paul's Cathedral School between 14 and 16 December 2009 and St. Paul's th thMission School between 12 and 14 January 2010, following your gracious

permission to visit schools under Calcutta Diocese.

In this regard, it is a great scope to share the wonderful experiences in the primary sections of both St. Paul's Cathedral School and St. Paul's Mission School guided by the friendly teachers and beautiful students. Though I was concentrating the research technique of Classroom Participants Observation (CPO) at Class III, yet with the extensive discussions with Rajen Sir, Teacher-in-charge of primary section and other teaching and non-teaching staffs enriched my knowledge about the school enriching at the St. Paul's Cathedral School. Same was with the teachers of St. Paul's Mission School, where I was warmly welcomed by Mrs. Raha, the Principal and Mr. Pope, the teacher-in-charge of the primary section.

As a Government aided missionary School, St. Paul's Cathedral School became a unique case study in my forthcoming PhD thesis, with all sorts of complexities of primary education in Kolkata. It is indeed a great heritage of school education in Kolkata, fighting bravely against the privatisation and commercialisation of school education. On the other hand, St. Paul's Mission School came up as a case stuy of strong survival of a private English medium school in the Twenty first century against the wave of 'new age school' of international status. In other words, both schools are quiet a representation of the socio-political currents in the educational scenario in the present day Kolkata and greater India as well.

Please note that the study would not conclude as the judgement on the type of status of the schools vis-à-vis any other school rather a study on the social causes on which these educational institutions prevail in contemporary Kolkata.

Thanking You,

Sincerely,

Bipasha MukherjeeSYLFF Doctoral FellowDept. of PhilosophyJadavpur University, Kolkata, IndiaE-mail [email protected]

A Letter of Appreciation


Continued from: Pg 1


Bishop attends conference in UKthe exchange programmes for the

thOn the 9 of February a reception was future. organised for our Bishop in Edinburgh. In that meeting Lord Charles Bruce Bishop Ashoke Biswas was also invited talked about the relationship Scotland to the Community of St. Thomas in had with Kolkata through St. Andrew's Edinburgh where the missionaries of Church and the Scottish Cemetery. He Scotland of various denominations had referred to the work of Mr. James fellowship and recollected their Simpson, the renowned conservation experiences in India. Bishop spoke to architect and shared his keenness for them about different churches and future association with the Scottish institutions in Kolkata, recalling their Church College and Collegiate School. past history. Bishop had an emotional Our bishop in his address thanked the moment when he met two former Heritage Committee for inviting him. ministers of St. Andrew's Church He told the gathering that the bond including Rev. John Nelson who had between St. Andrew's Church and also been associated with the La Scotland is not recent but began with Martinieres. Our bishop also met Mr. the coming of Alexander Duff and the George P. Mackenzie, Keeper of the other missionaries of the Church of National Archives and Mr. P. C. Biswas, Scotland and that the most recent the Consul General of India. We thank missionary had been Rev. Margaret our bishop for representing the Macgregor, who was also present churches in Kolkata to the people of there. In order to continue this rich the United Kingdom and Scotland. <heritage our Bishop further discussed

Rededication of the Oxford Mission Chapel

substantial funds received through the Monument Architect and a competent UK Committee of the Oxford Mission engineering firm, the much awaited and with expert advise from a renovation of the chapel commenced Conservation and Heritage Building/ in November 2009, with the due

approval of the Oxford Mission Trust Association. As planned, the chapel was fully refurbished by the end of December 2009.

The original open brick facing all round the interior walls of the chapel was newly painted. A 'durma' false ceiling has been erected below the new steel sheet roofing. Freshly polished wood carvings, murals and vintage picture frames, f ixtures, f i t t ings, apt illumination by CFL lamps, have not only restored the divine ambience, but has brought comforting thoughts and words, in reminiscence of the Founding Fathers of the Oxford Mission at Behala.

The Festival of the Epiphany was celebrated by Oxford Mission in undivided Bengal for the first time on

ththe 6 of January 1881. On that day the Mission House was formally opened in a hired premise in Bow Bazar by Bishop Johnson, Bishop of Calcutta and Metropolitan of India. The Brotherhood was initially named as 'The Brotherhood of Saint Paul', with Edward Willis as its Superior. Very soon the name was changed by them to 'The Brotherhood of the Epiphany'. From that time Epiphany became the annual festival of the brotherhood, signifying the manifestation of Christ to the wise men of the East.

The Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas, Bishop of Calcutta Diocese (CNI) and Chairman of Oxford Mission Trust Association, conducted the inauguration ceremony service, along with The Most Rev. Paul Sishir Sarkar, Moderator, Church of Bangladesh. A large number of priests, institutional heads, Trustees of Oxford Mission Trust Association, Local Christians, Ex Oxford Mission boys, staff members and hostel boys attended the service. <

Col. (Retd.) Subir Ghosh

Epiphany Day celebration at Oxford Mission


the Church of North India. As part of its who work with the underprivileged activities, the centre conducts regular children at the Sealdah and Howrah workshops and seminars for imparting railway stations in Kolkata. They also healthy guidance to the youth of our have a home for street children at community. Kestopur, where Anisha is rendering In the recent past 3 workshops were their expertise through conducting life organised by Anisha. The first of these skill training programmes. Sampurna workshops, on the topic “Adolescent Barat and Joytsna Ghosh from Anisha

thCounselling” was held on the 18 of visit the children at Sealdah and November 2009 at the Chinsurah Child Howrah stations on a regular basis. Project, Chinsurah in the Hoogly district of West Bengal. A second Recently a counselling cell has been set workshop on “Time Management” up at the Scottish Church College.

nd Nilanjana Goswami conducted the first was held on the 2 of December 2009 session at this centre, where she at Bosekati. As part of this growing elaborated on “counselling and its use” good work, a third workshop was again

th through a Power Point presentation. organised at Bosekati on the 24 of Ms. Nilanjana and Debashis will be February 2010. The topic for this visiting this cell on a regular basis from workshop was, “Self Esteem and March 2010. Relationship Building”. All of these

“Anisha Counselling Centre”, is a centre three workshops were conducted by for giving proper guidance and In 2010, the Anisha Counselling Centre Nilanjana Goswami, Dipankar Sil and counselling to adolescent youth and has plans to engage with many other Ballika Bhattacharya.others, who are at the delicate growing schools and colleges, to offer a helping stages of life, faced with complains and hand to the youth of our society. <From the beginning of 2010, Anisha confusion. The centre is under the has partnered into a new relation with

Ballika Bhattacharyaguidance of the Diocese of Calcutta of an NGO by the name of Asian Sahayog,

Kolkata: The theme for this year's CNI, Free School Street, St. Paul's that we need to move beyond this Unity Octave chosen by the Pontifical Cathedral, CNI, The Cathedral of the Annual Unity Octave and work Council for Promoting Christian Unity Most Holy Rosary, R.C, Church of Our throughout the year to express our and the Faith and Order Commission of Lady of Vailankanni, R.C., St. Ignatius' oneness and love as we profess Jesus the World Council of Churches (WCC) Church, R.C. and St. James's Church, and the power of His resurrection.was "You are witnesses of these things" CNI, A.J.C. Bose Road. Besides these,

t h24 January was declared as (Luke 24:48). The Church in Kolkata the individual Churches also held their Ecumenism Sunday this year. Keeping made plans through its Commission for Unity Octave prayers in various the spirit of Ecumenism, many Ecumenism & Dialogue & CNI Church deaneries. Churches had the liturgical prayers and to have 8 days of prayer for unity in the prayers of the faithful, prepared by the Church. His Grace, Archbishop Lucas The Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas in his Commission for Ecumenism, CCBI. On Sirkar and Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas, homily at the Cathedral of the Most the same day, St. James' Church had Diocese of Calcutta, CNI sent jointly a Holy Rosary, categorically spelt out the the prayer service in the evening. Rev. circular to all the Churches, to observe need for us as Christians of Kolkata to Nigel Pope, the Presbyter-in-charge the Unity Octave celebrations in their make a united witness to the love of made all the necessary arrangements respective Churches in a meaningful Jesus Christ in our city. He stated that for a very meaningful prayer service. way. the time has come for us to stand There were around 200 participants The Churches in Kolkata that held alongside each other, overcoming all who attended this service. Among prayer services were, St. George's b a r r i e r s o f d i v i s i o n a n d them were the sisters of Missionaries Church, CNI Ananda Palit, St. Thomas's, denominations. Bishop Ashoke said

Unity Octave 2010

Anisha Counselling Centre at Bishop’s House, Kolkata

Anisha Counselling Centre


of Charity, Lavinia House, student’s from the Bishops' College, the parishioners of St. James' and a few others from other Churches.

All took active part in the celebration and prayed for the unity of the Church. Fr. F. Sunil Rosario, Director for the Commission of Ecumenism & Dialogue gave homily during the service. In his homily he insisted that the Church should take further interest to promote Ecumenical spirit among the Churches and various denominations. It is the call of the Church to give witness to the Risen Lord. “In this divided world and society, we are called to be united and to be at peace with one another. The will of God in our lives is to rejoice and thank God at all circumstances. We are called to be witnesses to the life of Jesus who is the source of our strength. It is through our unity as Christians that we experience the presence of Christ among us.”

The celebration of unity octave is an invitation to “common prayer, common witness and common mission wherever possible, as we increasingly come to share in the life of the Holy Spirit together.” He also highlighted some of the Ecumenical concerns that Kolkata can take up to build up the spirit of fellowship and in giving common witness to our world. He said, “Bengal has been the ground for Ecumenism and Dialogue and it has a long history. In the spirit of Universal Church, all the denominations should share the commonality of various concern and work for unity, harmony and peace.

May the spirit of Ecumenism grow within the Church in our city and may the world see that we are united in the spirit of the Lord to proclaim the good news to all. <

Rev. Nigel Pope

Quartoseptcentenary (175 year) Celebration of La Martiniere Schools Kolkata

Inaugural Thanksgiving Service - and its lawns were tastefully decorated Celebration of Lives in characteristic blue and amber. The

mood was tinged with excitement as Truly Major General Claude Martin had teachers and students of both La left “his footprints' in Kolkata. The La Martiniere for Girls and La Martiniere Martiniere schools are institutions that for Boys along with the guests have carved a name for their unique assembled in the hall for high tea. contribution in the field of education and ethics and building people to serve The Bishop of Kolkata, The Rt. Rev. the nation. Ashoke Biswas, the Moderator of CNI,

The Most Rev. Purely Lyngdoh and Mrs. The vision of a poor French boy, whom Lyngdoh were warmly welcomed. The fortune favoured, resulted in his Moderator and his wife were

mission to educate the children from felicitated in the traditional La Lyon and India. His benevolence Martiniere way with flowers and token breathed life into institutions in Lyon, gifts of appreciation by Mrs. H. Lucknow and Kolkata. La Martiniere Peacock, Principal La Martiniere for

st Girls and Mr. S. Chakravarthi, Principal Kolkata finally came into being on 1 of La Martiniere for Boys. The March, 1836 and now it is time for the members of the Board of Governors s c h o o l t o c e l e b r a t e i t s

th were also present. The Bishop and the Quartoseptcentenary year. The 175 Moderator greeted the gathering on year celebration began with an this landmark occasion of the schools. inaugural service at St. Paul's Cathedral

th The felicitation programme was on 27 February 2010.moderated by Mrs. R. Sarkar, Vice Principal, La Martiniere for Girls. It was a warm sunny afternoon on the

th27 of February 2010. The Parish Hall

A mixed procession of La Martiniere Boys and Girls at the inaugural service


A beautifully decorated St. Paul's different rendition of Psalm 23 'The world with their talents fine tuned, Cathedral was the venue for a solemn Vicar of Dibley'- Howard Goodall, by their skills developed and their and inspiring thanksgiving service. The the Faculty of the two schools which characters strengthened, to make service began with a very impressive was appreciated by one and all. The meaningful contributions to the procession of Cross bearers, Acolytes, children lent their youthful exuberance society and look forward to the years School banner bearers, Presbyters, to the melodious rendition of 'As Pants ahead.members of the Board, Principals, Vice The Hart'- Louis Spohr by the Girls' Principals, Department Heads, the School Choir and 'To God Be The Glory'- M a n y w e e k s o f h a r d w o r k , Bishop of Kolkata and the Moderator of W.H. Dolne by the Boys' School choir. preparations and practices both by CNI who had specially come to Kolkata The prayers of Thanksgiving and Faculty and Students culminated in a to grace the occasion. Dedication touched upon the various very beautiful service where hearts

facets of school life. The service were touched, commitments and The combined orchestra of both the concluded with a hymn of thanks and loyalties were affirmed with a boys and girls' school and the choirs praise to God for all his bounteous heightened sense of allegiance to the enriched the songs of worship. The blessings followed by the Benediction Alma Mater. Memories are made of Prefects and the Faculty participated in and Blessing by the Moderator and our these. May these beautiful the reading of the Scriptures and Bishop. c e l e b r a t i o n s c o n t i n u e t o special prayers. The Moderator, in his commemorate this remarkable year till challenging message, urged the La Martiniere. through the 175 years, March 2011. May the young people teachers, students and staff of the has seen its share of trials and leave their “footprints in the sands of school not to lose sight of the aims of tribulations and with perseverance, time”. <the school, but to uphold the ethical has forged ahead in giving to the guidelines inculcated thereby making a nation, youth who excel in many VIVE LA MARTINIEREpositive impact on the society. The spheres of art, science, sports, co-service continued with a refreshingly curricular activities and go into the

th184 Anniversary of Chinsurah ChurchChinsurah is a small town located in the experiences about how God has been w i t n e s s e d a n o v e r w h e l m i n g Hoogly district of the state of West faithful and kind towards those who participation for this event. <Bengal. The town in adjacent to the honestly follow Him. The Church river Hoogly at about 35 km north of Kolkata city and is home to the district headquarters. The region also comes under the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority.

The CNI church at Chinsurah, established in 1825 is one of the oldest churches of the Diocese of Calcutta

th(CNI), celebrated its 184 Birthday on

ththe 20 of December 2010. The Bishop of Calcutta Rt. Rev. Ashok Biswas blessed this auspicious occasion with his presence and delivered the thanksgiving message. In his message he stressed on the duties and responsibi l i t ies of the Church members towards the Church and Christ. Bishop shared some of his The Chinsurah Church decorated with lights

thon the eve of its 184 Anniversary


An address by Bishop Ashoke Biswas at local congregation to engage in an the CNI as a church made a shift from a seminar in commemoration of 40 exchange of “Retrospection” about our diakonia to dikaiosune, which means

thyears of CNI on 28 November 2009 Mission and work as the local and righteousness and justice as essentially at Bhowanipur Congregational Church concrete face of the CNI in Kolkata. being part of what service means.

Therefore, if justice is the main concern Introduction The journey continues, but I think it is of the Church today, the Church must

an opportune time for us today to stop actively work for a systematic and Good morning friends and greetings in and see where we have reached over structural transformation of the whole the name of our Unifying Lord Jesus the last forty years. I have been asked creation, going beyond charity, Christ. Today is indeed a very special by the organisers to limit my paternalism and patronage in the

th presentation on one of the CNI mottos name of service. The Church must day as we celebrate the 40 year of the which is 'Service'. So my presentation conscientize the people and make Union of the Church of North India

th will be divided into two parts - in part them aware of their bondages both in (CNI). The 29 of November 1970, was one I will endeavour to present a brief the church and society. Hence indeed a very special day, not only for biblical understanding of 'Service' and 'Service' in its biblical and inclusive those who joined the CNI, but more so in part two, I shall focus on what is the definition, demands that we as for the Church universal. Yes! The CNI already existing understanding of Christians engage in acts of justice and formation is truly the biggest 'Service' in the CNI. righteousness as well. In the light of movement towards Church unity since

t h i s w h o l e u n d e rsta n d i n g o f the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). Church The Biblical basis of the service life of dikaiosune (i.e. service as justice and unity, like the Pentecost event, is only

the Church righteousness) let us look at a few possible because of the presence and biblical models of the churches' called working of the Holy Spirit and so we

'Service' A New Testament Definition to service.celebrate the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

The term 'Service' in the New 1. Love as service to the neighbour, Testament comes from the word poor and oppressed.I take this opportunity to thank Rev. diakonia, which comes from the word, Biswajit Biswas for proposing to have a Deacon meaning service. However, 40 The injunction to love God and love programme like this, which is an years hence, I think it is high time that ones neighbour is found throughout opportunity for us as a Diocese and

Service Life of the Church

St. James’ School wins Modern World Debate

The Modern World Debates consisted of four rounds, which included - Just-a-Minute, Turncoat, Face-Off, and Deconstruction, culminating in the Oxford Format Debate in the finals.

In the Turncoat round, St. James' School, represented by Pranav Sridhar, placed first. In the Face-Off round St. J a m es ' p l a c ed f i f t h . I n t h e school. Aditya Doshi was adjudged the Debates. The winners received a Deconstruction round represented by best speaker of the entire event. trophy, certificate and Mont Blanc Pen. Aditya Doshi, St. James' School placed It was indeed a landmark achievement first. In the final round of the Oxford Adding up the points in the various for St. James' School, Kolkata. <Format Debate, Aditya Doshi and rounds, St. James' was declared Joseph ChakoMadhav Rangrass represented the Champions of the first Modern World


St. James’ School lifts the Modern World Debate trophy


the Bible, the law codes found in alternative community based on The understanding of the Service Life Exodus and Deuteronomy indicate to service, is worked out in real terms of the Church in the context of CNIus how this should be worked out in with the Church in Jerusalem coming the context of our daily socio- together as a community in which, In this section, I would like to focus on a economic and political lives and the everything is held together in common relevant understanding of “Service Life prophetic books are a constant and private property and selfishness is of the Church” in the context of CNI. reminder to us to maintain this law. It condemned (Book of Acts). When we speak in the context of CNI, is of particular significance that the there are three documents that I have biblical vision of loving our neighbours, It is also in the primitive Church, that found significant in defining the the poor and oppressed calls us into this specif ic form of ministry Service Life of the Church of North their service. developed. It is interesting that the India. These documents are namely

forms of ministry develop out of a need the Plan of the Church Union (1965) 2. The Church as an alternative for service. In Acts 6, it is accounted and the Faith and Order of the Church community of service how 7 deacons were called to serve; it as found in the Constitution. The

was a way of making service more second document is the resolution of For us as Christians though, of effective and ensuring that the needs the November 1978 consultation significant value for the service life of of all, specially the oppressed were entitled “Churches Role in Social the church is to be found in the very met. It is out of this early division that Service and Development, organised words of Jesus particularly found in the specialised forms of ministry of the by the Synodical Board of Social Service Mark 10:42-45 and paralleled in Church developed. It is significant for of the Church of North India, and the Mathew 20:25-28, which says so, Jesus us to note, that in the primitive church, third document is the statement of the called them and said to them. “You the office of Deacons, Presbyters and “Towards a Holistic Understanding of know among the gentiles, those whom Bishops were essentially offices of Mission Process”. If we are to take they recognise as their rulers, Lord it service (the essence of their ministry). these three documents seriously, I over them, and their great ones are believe we get a clear insight into the tyrants over them. But it is not so 3. Service as being involved in vision of the CNI as far as the service life among you; but whoever wants to be kingdom building of the church goes.great among you must be your servant and whoever wants to be first among It was only later that two broad 1. Service is the task of the whole you must be slave of all. For the Son of understanding of the forms of ministry ChurchMan came not to be served but to developed in the churches. One form serve and to give his life as a ransom for emphasised the dependence of the While there may be a popular many.” These words of Jesus not only community of believers on the understanding that service is the task are to be interpreted as a call to ordained and a second stressed the of the ordained minister or even the servant-hood, but rather should also mutual dependence of all on each DBSS and other related NGO's like CRS, be seen as the call to the creation of an other. It is this second understanding CSS, Arunima Hospice etc., the fact alternative community that is based on that is acceptable to the CNI and which remains that the vision of service in CNI mutual service to each other. The articulated in the following words, “To is to be understood as the task of the alternative community that the the whole Church and to every whole Church. The Faith and Order of disciples of Christ are called to create is member of it, belongs the duty and the Church clearly states that “The a community, which is directly privilege of spreading the good news of Church of North India recognises that it opposed to notions of hierarchy and the Kingdom of God, and the message is the duty and privilege of every one, which i s cr i t ica l of the of salvation through Jesus Christ.” (Cf. member to share in that service of accumulation of power. Rather the The Constitution of the Church of God, which is the Church ministry. This society, which is envisioned here is a North India and by-laws, Faith and ministry includes the worship of God, community that is critical of power and Order of the Church, Section VI, Clause both in private as well as in public, hierarchy and one that is based on the 1). So given to us both “Clergy and Christian loving service both within the mutual service of one to another. Laity” is the charge of spreading the family of the Church and to the

good news and engaging in works of community at large, and the spread of In the primitive Church this idea of an building the Kingdom of God. the Gospel of Jesus Christ through


evangelism.” (Faith and Order of and with others, especially those in occasion to celebrate our openness Church Section VII Sub-section A need of our service. and also to praise and thank God for Clause 1). Clause 2 goes on to explicate our work and witness of our Diocese, the various areas in which the 3. Service cannot be reduced to but more importantly, I think, today is members of the Church can contribute charity the time, to celebrate our unity, to the work of the Church. This clearly sharpen our witness and create a new shows us that serv ice is the It is significant that CNI does not see and affirmative community of love and responsibility of each and every service only as acts of kindness, rather service in Kolkata.member of the Church and is not just sees it as a radical action of the Church the responsibility of the clergy or any towards a total transformation of the Remember “Service is the rent you pay particular board. Here again we see world. This is made clear in more than for the privilege that God has given you that as a CNI Diocese, we have been one place. The seminal statement to live on this Earth”. So service is not called, (that is all of us) to a faith in comes from the same consultation as an option but a compulsory mandate action. I think 40 years is good enough mentioned above and makes the point for everyone who believes in Jesus and time for a Diocese to move from that “the poor should not be treated as models their life in His examples. I engaging in mere acts of charity to objects of pity, but they are subjects of conclude by summarising the contents engaging in effective and meaningful their own development.” Further the of this presentation and I hope that this social action as a call to service. point is made clear in the mission would just be the beginning of some

statement of CNI that “commits to deep retrospection into the present 2. Service is the response of the demonstrate in actions to restore the ministry of the Diocese of Calcutta:Church to the person of Jesus Christ integrity of God's creation through

continuous struggle against the = Service is the responsibility of the According to the resolution of the demonic powers by breaking down the whole Church.Constitution on Churches' role in social barriers of caste, class, gender, = The functions of the ordained service and development the service of economic inequality and exploitation ministry is essentially service.the Church is a response to the person of the nature.” The stress in the service = While there are specific boards of of Jesus Christ. The document clearly activities of the Church is on a rights service, service is the Church's states that “In obedience to Jesus based approach that seeks a whole responsibility.Christ, we should primarily be revolutionary new society based on = The CNI has a radical view of concerned about the poor, down- justice. service that is not merely based on trodden and socio-economically charity but seeks an alternative exploited and handicapped people. Conclusion society based on the values of Jesus Christ is very much with them. If justice, peace and integrity of we worship Him, we have to worship In the context of CNI, then, service is to creation.Him in service as well. Service then for be understood in terms of justice and = Service is one of the reasons for the Church is not an act that arises out peace in terms of charity and Church union.of a mere act of kindness or a sense of dependency. Further it should be humanity, rather for the Church, clarified that it is suggested that service May the Lord bless the Diocese of service is to be seen as an act of faith, is carried on through the participation Calcutta as we embark on the path of or even more precisely, an act of in People's movements and people's serving God and God's people here in worship. May our worship help us to struggles and in solidarity with the our city. <strengthen our relationship with God oppressed. We need to use this special

Always remember the Prayer for Good FridayO Christ, we thank you for your fo r h u m a n k i n d t h ro u g h yo u r judgment? They rejected you, but sacrifice on the cross for our salvation, resurrection. embraced the criminal Barabbas. Yet by taking our sins upon yourself. You you never condemned anyone. You destroyed death and through your You kept silent, while you were falsely prayed “Father, forgive them for they death paved the path for an eternal life judged. Who can stand before your know not what they do”. Lord, even


today, like Barabbas we join with those believers and witness in our hearts, Save all those who repent in this evil who prevent the ways of truth, justice minds and spirit. O Christ, bearer of world. Never forsake us, O Saviour, we and mercy; and be the cause of your our sins, forgive our transgressions. O believe in you. Increase our faith and death on the cross. God, the healer, heal our sickness with dependence on you through your

the wounds of Christ. Cleanse us with grace. Dear Lord, may your will be Touch us today, through this worship so your holy blood, so that we are never done in our lives, Amen. <that we can be transformed into lively estranged from you. Bishop Gorai

Basic Qualifications of Church LeadersSt. Paul laid out the basic qualifications behavior, a person of dignified and attitude toward material wealth ought of a Church leader. He did so to give decent conduct. Some translators to be one of healthy detachment, but Timothy guidance in selecting these render the Greek word as "modest". certainly not that of irresponsibility.important individuals. Hence Paul listed the following 15 characteristics 6. He must be "Hospitable" - (Gr. 13. He must “Manage his own that should mark the life of a man who philoxenos,) means one who opens his household well” - means that he aspires to serve as a church leader: home to others. This was an especially should be in control of his family. essential quality in the early church. Family members must submit to his 1. One whose character is “Above Greek word means “loving the leadership out of respect for him. The reproach" - (irreproachable), meaning stranger”. He needs to keep his life, leader's responsibilities in the church that he should possess no obvious flaw home and heart open to others. are quite parental, so he should prove in his character or conduct. There his ability in the home before he should be no cause for justifiable 7. He must be "Able to teach" - (Gr. receives larger responsibility in the criticism now or in his past that anyone didaktikos) means apt, qualified, and church. Home is the proving ground could use to discredit him and bring competent to explain and defend the for church leadership. reproach on the name of Christ and the truth of God, also apt to teach both Curch. The Greek word means "not to able and willing to communicate to 14. He must not be a "New (recent) be laid hold of." This is the main quality others the knowledge, which God has convert" - There should be evidence that the following ones make clearer. given him. that he can function as a leader

(teaching, leading, defending the faith, 2. He must be "the husband of one 8. He must be "Not addicted to wine" - etc.) without becoming conceited. The wife" - There are four major views as to or not given to drunkenness, meaning new believer is more likely to see such what Paul had in mind. First the leader not a brawler, playboy, slave of drink or a position of leadership as an must be married, he must be married drunkard. opportunity for personal advancement only once, he must be monogamous and to fail to understand the gravity of and he must be a moral husband. 9. He must not be "pugnacious" or the task.

violent - So he should not be a person 3. He must be "Temperate" - meaning who resorts to physical or verbal 15. He must be of "Good reputation a sober, vigilant, clearheaded, and violence to vent his anger and or to outside the church" - As we study the well-balanced person in life, not prone settle disputes. qualifications of a leader it becomes to extremism. clear that two things were of utmost

10. He must be "Gentle" - (Gr. important to Paul. First that such a 4. He must be "Prudent" - meaning a epieikes,) meaning patient. man should not be guilty of doing man of self-control and sense, who something wrong, and the other that does not speak rashly and is a person of 11. He must be "Un contentious" - the people had to perceive his conduct sound judgment. Greek word for this is describes a person, who is not as proper for a Christian. <“sensible” quarrelsome, who is not a fighter or a

brawler. P. Mukhuty5. He must be "Respectable" - (Gr. 12. He should be “free from the love of kosmios) meaning orderly, of good money” - This means the candidate's


Seminar on Models of LeadershipRev. Dr. Sunil Caleb, Principal Bishop's College, Kolkata, further reminded us that the real challenge today was to be church leaders rather than the more appealing and easily acceptable leader of the secular world.

Mrs. Redfern in her presentation defined the four elements of episcope as: Priest - Signifier, Prophet - Disturber, Theologian - Reflector and Apostolic Leader - Transformer. Where she says the Priest is involved in 'Being', the Prophet in 'Seeing', the Theologian in 'Thinking' and the Apostolic Leader in 'Doing'. The Priest - Signifier usually draws to a wider purpose and points beyond. The Prophet - Disturber is more into raising expectancy and A seminar on 'Models of Leadership' financial contribution, decline of faith challenging the boundaries. The was conducted by The Rt. Rev. Dr. within members, corruption of Theologian - Reflector believes in Alastair Redfern, Bishop of Derbyshire, leaders, lack of youth involvement, attending to the moment, intelligent and his wife Mrs. Caroline Redfern for attendance, communication barriers interpretation and application. Finally the presbyters, church leaders and between pastors and congregation and

th the Apostolic Leader - Transformer Bishop's College students on the 13 of sense of uncertainty came forward. practices a shift in action and/ or February 2010 at the La Martiniere for understanding. All the four comes Girls School. A total of 49 individuals Further the bishop asked the with their own set of dangers. With participated in the seminar. participants to identify the greatest the Signifier the problem lies in his challenge they faced as church leaders. personal charisma that dominates, Both the Bishop and his wife are To which the members identified rather than the message. The experts in the field of leadership challenges such as; portraying the true

training. Bishop Redfern has also and present picture of the church to ndpenned a few books, the latest of it the congregation, encouraging 2 line

being “Public Space and Private Faith”. of leadership, too many leaders at Mrs. Redfern comes from a strong some places, intellectual pride, Human Resource background, with groupism of leaders and constant previous work experience in the theological training with authority. corporate sector and presently working with the Church of England. Bishop Redfern then reminded us that She specialises in techniques of people mostly live in chaos, so they Modern Resource Management. look up to their leaders for direction

and hope. Unfortunately people are Bishop Redfern commenced the bent towards choosing wrong leaders, seminar by asking the candidates to who satisfy their ways of life, who identify the most important challenge believe in what they want to believe in. faced by their respective churches The Bishop finally suggested that as a t o d ay. C h a l l e n g e s s u c h a s ; church leader ones primary role was to nominalisation, mixed marriage, lack help the church in becoming one “Holy, of congregational involvement, Catholic and Apostolic Church”.

Participants at the seminar

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Alastair Redfern, Bishop of Derbyshire


threat of theory and no practice. And action was 'contextual engagement' or the Transformer shows the danger of the service of community and the being a manipulator. Well they have fourth being 'going for growth' or positive sides too. The Signifier draws mission. The last two agendas were out to something bigger. The Disturber more of an outcome. shows new possibilities. The Reflector has consideration and depth. And The seminar further continued into finally the Transformer shows the question answer sessions. To sum up potential of enlightenment and the seminar, Bishop Redfern reminded application. the participants of the following four

things: The first being involvement. So the question Mrs. Redfern posed The second he said was that how did was that how do we exercise our vocation contribute to the growth leadership to make a difference? To of the church? The third was the young which she went on to explain a four people. And the fourth was, how could pronged agenda. The first of which we positively interpret our sense of was to 'mobilise the frontline' or insecurity. The seminar was followed stewardship. The second was 'talent by a fellowship lunch organised by the management' or developing the gifts La Martinier for Girls School. <disturber’s problem is that he causes of the people. Both of these were stress and unrealistic hope. The

Trishikh DasguptaChurch focused. The third agenda for Reflector on the other hand poses the

Notable Events at Osmond Memorial Church, Kolkata

Whole night Carol for the first time collections were within Rs. 8,000, but Workshop on Bank Clerical Exam in the church this year the collection has been above organised by the church

Rs. 36,000. The spirit of God moved Since the church's inception, this was the hearts of the members powerfully With the guidance and encouragement the first time a whole night carol was as many joyfully contributed for the of the Bishop, Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas

ndorganised by the church on the 22 of church. We praise and thank God for and the suggestion of one of our active December 2009. An enthusiastic such a breakthrough. church members, himself a bank group of around 35 members along employee, a one-day workshop on with youth and women of the church Friendly football match after a gap of Bank Clerical Exam was organised by

stvisited different houses, singing the church on the 31 of October 2009. decadesChristmas carols throughout the night. Invitations were sent by the Pastorate The group sang carols in Ballygunge, committee, through the Bishop, to all A friendly football match was Picnic Garden, Kamardanga, Entally the churches under the Diocese for o r g a n i s e d b y t h e c h u r c h a t and Taltola areas. Many members specially the young people to Kamardanga Compound field after a

thwere happy at the new endeavour long time on the 6 of February 2010. participate. Around 35 participants towards organising such a merry event. The match was between the senior and attended this programme. The

youth members of the congregation. resource persons were experienced Record breaking Harvest Collection The youth members emerged as the bank employees from the State Bank.

for the church winners of the match. It was an Relevant study materials were given to occasion of fellowship and enjoyment. each participant free of cost. Our

The Harvest service was organised on Inspired by the event, the members respected Bishop was present at the th

the 13 of December 2009, the second proposed that similar tournaments for programme and de l ivered an Sunday of the month. This year there badminton, volleyball, etc. should also encouraging speech. The programme has been a record breaking collection be organised. was a huge success and commended for the church. Till previous years, the by all.

Mrs. Caroline Redfern

Sunday school exposure visit presented songs, dances and other to the children as gifts. It was an performances to entertain the old occasion for the children to learn the

A Sunday school exposure visit was residents of the home. After a short joy of extending Christ's love and organised by the church in December worship they interacted with the fellowship towards elders.2009. The Sunday school teachers and elders. The children also distributed students visited the Shanti Nivas old some fruits and sweets. The old Rev. Swarup Barage home in Behala. The children people also gave biscuits and chocolate

Central level Church Mission Engagement Programme of DBSS at St. Peter's Church

coordinator, Mr. Kallol Gayen, along with other staff, namely, Mr. Anil Panja, Mr. Chiradeep Misra, Ms. Banosree Malakar and Mr. Dilip Singh.

The Nahazari Church is situated in a backward area, where the people suffer from a dearth of proper livelihood sources. Keeping this in consideration, CBSS capacitated the identified leader in commencing rights based programmes. The leaders were also helped to develop a survey format for identifying of families living Below ndKolkata: On the 22 of January 2010, a Sircar explained the whole concept of Poverty Line (BPL).

C h u r c h M i s s i o n E n g a g e m e n t CME, its vision, mission and objectives. Programme was organised by the The presbyters and congregational thOn the 25 of February 2010, a follow Diocesan Board of Social Services leaders shared the role of their

up programme was organised in (DBSS) of the Diocese of Calcutta (CNI) respective churches. Mrs. Sircar

consultation with the identified at the St. Peter's Church in Barisha, further stated that any member of a

leaders, where information was Kolkata. congregation could be a part of CME

collected about the BPL families. In and it was not only to be considered as

total, 35 families were identified as The programme was attended by a project of DBSS but also a mission of

BPL. On the same day the leaders were members of the Pastorate committee the various churches to carry out and

capacitated on Social Security and presbyters of Chinsurah Church, fulfill the mission of Jesus Christ.

Schemes. This session was facilitated St. Mary's Church, Duff Church,

by DBSS Coordinators Mr. Dilip Singh Nahazari Church, Howrah St. Thomas As a follow-up activity all the

and Mr. Chiradeep Mishra. A signature Church, Epiphany Church, Jeevan Jyoti participants were asked to chalk out a

campaign for NREGA was further Upasanalaya and Sadhu Sundar Singh programme for their respective thorganised on the 18 of March 2010. Girja. Also present were Mr. Prashant congregation. Ms. Rima Mondal and Bhonsle and Ms. Sweta Guria from CNI Mr. Lakshikanta Mondal of Nahazari

O ve ra l l a c h i e ve m e nt s o f t h e SBSS resource centre. Church, asked for special guidance in

programme:carrying forward this activity at their

The programme started with a word of church level. In aid to this request = Environment Day celebration and

prayer by Rev. Shyamal Pal followed by DBSS offered their help through an workshops on global warming

an inauguration speech by Rev. orientation programme specially were held at the Emmanuel

Shreeraj Mohanty. The objectives of designed for the Nahazari Church on Church, Kestopur and Sadhu th

the workshop and expectation of the the 4 of February 2010. This Sundar Singh Girja, where the

participants were discussed. Mrs. Rina programme was facilitated by DBSS congregation members have


Mr. Prashant Bhonsle, Team Leader, CNI RCSA, Barrackpore, facilitating the programme


actively taken up environment women have been formed by the interest among the congregational protection programmes such as; members of Emmanuel Church leaders. Rev. Sreeraj Mohanty of St. plantation of saplings and non use and Jibon Jyoti Upasanalaya. The Peters Church has shown great interest of plastic bags etc. SHGs have networked with West in CME and plans to carry forward the

= A campaign against country liquor B e n g a l B a c k w a r d C l a s s activities to his associated church in in collaboration with the members D eve l o p m e nt a n d F i n a n c e Nahazari. DBSS has planned to of Jibon Jyoti Upasanalaya has Corporation. organise few capacity building helped in curbing the problem of programmes for the congregation at alcoholism in the Kalagachia area. A major challenge for the CME Nahazari. <

= 5 Self Help Groups (SHGs) for programme is to create a constant Rina Sircar

National Ecumenical Youth Assembly 2010 Friendship as a New and Inclusive Paradigm of Relation in Ecumenism

Friendship is a new and inclusive paradigm of relation in ecumenism.

Bishop Taranath Sagar, President of NCCI, brought greetings on behalf of the thirteen million Orthodox and Protestant Christians. The two fold purpose of this event he stated was - bringing an awareness of ecumenism and fostering unity to transform the world. Ms. Urmi and group performed a welcome contemporary dance in t u n e w i t h Ta g o r e ' s ' A g u n e r Poroshmoni'.

Dr. Mathews George Chunakkara, D i r e c t o r o f C o m m i s s i o n o f International Affairs, World Council of National Ecumenical Youth Assembly welcomed by Mr. Suman Biswas, Churches, gave the inaugural Keynote 2010, was held in the St. Thomas' Chairperson of Commission on Youth address. He pointed out, how School Kidderpore campus in Kolkata and also the local hosting committee

th th ecumenism is being greatly affected by coordinator of NEYA 2010. Mr. from the 6 to 10 of January 2010. lack of youth leadership and strength, Angelios Michael, Vice-President of 700 youth from diverse Christian which he said is pushing the world to NCCI in his Greetings reminded the denominations and religious traditions chaos. He stated that today the participants that the theme 'Come, from different parts of India, Pakistan, ecumenical movement all over had Let's Be Friends' is a quite relevant Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, deteriorated and an event such as theme in the present context of A u s t r a l i a a n d e c u m e n i c a l NEYA was a step towards its revival. Dr. hostility and violence. organisations participated in the Chunakkara reminded the youths of forum. This was also an occasion to Christ's crucifixion which he found to In the introductory briefing address, Fr. commemorate the centenary of World be an ultimate example of love and V i n e e t h Ko s h y, S e c r e t a r y o f Missionary Conference held in friendship. Commission on Youth of NCCI, pointed Edinburgh in 1910.

out that this gathering is to rejuvenate In the afternoon Mr. Suman Biswas and revitalise the youth participation NEYA 2010 began with an inaugural lead the ice-breaking session. After in Church and in Ecumenica l worship led by Dr. Joseph Prabhakar. dinner there was a concert by Mr. Vijay Movement. He further observed that The delegates and guests were Benedict and his son Ruel.

Bishop Ashoke Biswas takes part in the ‘Youth for Justice’ Rally on the third day of the Youth Assembly on 8/01/2010


The second day commenced with a s h o wcas i n g ta l e nts f ro m t h e liturgy the congregation also observed musical worship led by the youth on participants. t h e N C C I S u n d a y. D r. M a r friendship with God. NCCI centenary Atsongchanger briefly spoke about celebrations were also launched in the Rev. Arpana Rangayya, from CNI, led NCCI, while Dr. Solomon Rongpi spoke assembly. Rev. Asir Ebenezer the the Bible study on the third day with about the importance of NCCI Sunday. o f f i c i a t i n g G e n e ra l S e c re ta r y the theme 'Friendship with Nature'. welcomed the President, Office The further sessions were led by Mrs. NEYA 2010 concluded with a bearers, Executive Secretaries of NCCI Shiluinla Jamir, currently a graduate at valedictory session. Mr. Suresh Koshy, and Youth to the centenary celebration the Yale University and Ms. Meenakshi Treasurer of NCCI offered the opening launch. Rev. Basaiawmoit introduced Arora from India Water Portal prayer. Mr. Suman Biswas, expressed the theme of NCCI centenary his desire to organise another youth “ Towards integral mission and The Rt. Rev. Ashoke Biswas, Bishop of assembly very soon. Mr. Angelios grassroots ecumenism” to all the Calcutta, flagged off the Friendship Michael exhorted the delegates to participants. Rally in the afternoon with a word of continue to uphold the Commission on

prayer. Shouting slogans of peace, youth. Rev. Asir Ebenezer felicitated Bishop Taranath Sagar released the justice and friendship the youth Mr. Suman Biswas, Rev. Argho Biswas official emblem of centenary by paraded a distance of more than 5 km and all the volunteers of youth offering a prayer and shared the fact to culminate at the St. Paul's Cathedral assembly for their hard work and that NCCI is the oldest and largest grounds. In the afternoon the dedication. National Council of Churches in Asia. part ic ipants at tended var ious Dr. Chunakkara brought greetings and workshops led by experts in various Later on the participants presented felicitated NCCI for its progress. Dr. Mar fields. There was a concert by Ms. their evaluation of the youth assembly. Atsongchanger inaugurated the Usha Uthup in the evening. Rev. Raj Bharath Patta led the youth to c e n t e n a r y s t a t i o n e r y. T h e take a pledge of friendship as a sign of Presby ter ian Church of Ind ia The fourth day's theme was 'Friendship their commitment to work towards performed a theme song and the with Humanity'. Rev. Philip Peacock, building friendship with humanity, closing prayer invocated in a worship Professor at Bishop's College, nature and the creator. Fr. Vineeth hymn by Angelios Michael. conducted the Bible study. Rev. Koshy, offered the final vote of thanks

Packiaraj Ahirwatham and Ms. to all the individuals who had Mr. Sudipto Singh former Youth Monideepa Banerjee an eminent contributed in making the youth Secretary of NCCI and Dr. Evangeline journalist with NDTV led the other assembly fruitful and meaningful. Mr. Rajkumar, Professor from United sessions. Christopher offered the final prayer Theological College led the sessions and Dr. Chungyi gave the benediction. and Rev. Vinod Victor conducted Bible On the final day all the delegates Thus the youth left Kolkata with a new Study focusing on the theme participated in a Sunday worship vision of befriending with nature, 'Friendship with God'. Various service at the St. Pauls Cathedral. The humanity and the creator in all walks of workshops were held in the afternoon worship was led by Rev. Argho Biswas life. <and in the evening a talent and and the message for the day was given Adapted from the report by NCCI, performance show was organised, by Rev. Asir Ebenezer. During the Commission on Youth

St. James' School - Annual Prize DaySt. James's School at 165 A. J. C. Bose The opening prayer was led by Rev. choir presented wonderful songs, Road had its Annual Prize Distribution Nigel Pope, the school Chaplain and appreciated by all.

thceremony on Tuesday the 16 of Presbyter-in-Charge of St. James' February 2010 at 5:30 pm. The Chief Church. Among those present were Mr. Terence Ireland, Principal of the Guest for the occasion was Prof. the students along with their parents, school, made a detailed power point Amalendu Bandyopadhyay, a Senior principals of other CNI schools, staff presentation summing up the school's Scientist with the M. P. Birla Institute of members of the school and other activities during the last term. He Fundamental Research. guests and dignitaries. The school staff recognised the successes as fruits of


hard labour and considered the failures as learning experiences for future success. Prof. Amalendu Bandyopadhyay in his address encouraged the students to pursue the science stream. He further stressed on the fact that India needed good and dedicated scientists in the future. This was followed by the distribution of prizes to the students by the Chief Guest. The ceremony concluded with everyone joining to sing the school and National Anthem. <

Trishikh Dasgupta

I have a book that I cherish a lotI read it during my leisure.It gives abundant strength,besides unlimited pleasure.

It's a fountain of joy;and my greatest delight.

When dark clouds gather,it shows me the light.

It contains words of comfort,that gives me solace.

Promising words of council,and abundant grace.

Words of profound wisdom,compassion beyond compare.Stories of Kings and Kingdoms,

and lessons for us to bear.

It is the greatest book ever written.The greatest number ever printed.

Translated in every known language,and is the most widely read.

IT IS THE BIBLE

Dipak Robson

St. John's Diocesan School - Annual Prize Day

other guests and dignitaries.

In her deta i led P o w e r P o i n t presentation about the school activities and achievement during the past academic year, Mrs. Chrestien specially st ressed on St . John’s Diocesan being a school that

The St. John's Diocesan School for Girls inculcates a progressive outlook in its

had its Annual Prize Day on Saturday pupils. She further said that education ththe 13 of February 2010. The in Diocesan meant; intellectual,

ceremony commenced with a word of cultural and social development of a

prayer by Rev. Sukhendu Biswas, the s t u d e n t , w h i l e e n c o u r a g i n g

school Chaplain. This was followed by individualism.

a welcome song by the senior school choir. There was also a special dance

In his Presidential Address, Bishop performance by the students of the

Ashoke Biswas, specially encouraged senior school.

the students, not to limit their vision to academics alone, but also to extend

Mrs. Rosita Chrestien, Lady Principal of their services to humanity. He

the school specially welcomed Rt. Rev. concluded his address by stressing on,

Ashoke Biswas, Bishop of Calcutta that the school's aim is to nurture and

Diocese (CNI) and President of the mould good human beings who

school, Mr. Cyril Patro, the Chief Guest, contribute in nation building.

Mr. Ashis Sengupta, Rev. Sukhendu Biswas, the students, their parents and

THE GREATEST BOOK

Mr. Cyril Patro, the Chief Guest for the occasion specifically reminded the girls that it is most important to identify ones values beyond the academics and to realise what good principles of life o n e f o l l o w e d . H e f u r t h e r congratulated the school in providing a holistic learning beyond 'the chalk and the rock'.

The ceremony then continued with the distribution of various prizes to the students. At the end it was reaffirmed that Diocesan is a school that not only fostered academic geniuses but nurtured socially concerned and morally upright women of Modern Bengal. <

Trishikh Dasgupta

Principal, Mr. Terence Ireland making acomputer presentation of the school activities.

A dance performance by the students

jan-feb 2010 engcnicalcutta.org/subhavna_pdf/subhavna_issue_11_jan_f… · · 2011-08-18subhavna...

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