Mount St Joseph

God's Love for You and for Me!

2011-11-20T11:31:00.000+05:30

In his poem, Novice Chethan Anil Pinto mulls and muses over the incomparable love of God. The words which strikingly show the poet's touching experience of the incomparable Love of God almost immediately take us along in its sway. Relish it!

People say, God is 'Love', 'Mercy' and 'Kindness'
He is everywhere, even in a tiny atom
They say He is above all, mighty and eternal
No one can compete with Him.
All say God's Love is unconditional
He is an endless ocean of 'Love'
His mercy is everlasting,
wide enough to embrace all generations.
Everything is true and acceptable.
But if we sit with this truth
We will have nothing of it and
No fruit will emerge out of God's bounty.
It is like fetching water from a river
with a full jar refusing to be empty.
Unless we go with an empty heart
We will not be filled at all!
A humble, open and sincere heart
will overflow with the Love of God
The heart which is kind and generous
will receive much more than needed.

Interview with Fr Denis Coelho SJ

2011-11-15T15:52:00.001+05:30

We got a good opportunity to talk to the otherwise shy and soft-spoken Fr Denis Coelho. Apart from the many ministries he has taken up in his long serving life as a Jesuit, he has also been the Rector of Mount St Joseph. Currently residing at Dhyanashrama, the veteran Fr Denis is actively involved in directing retreats. Here are the excerpts of the interview with him.

Father, how would you like to describe your life at present? What are your present involvements?

I am attached to the retreat house. So my main work is directing retreats. Time permitting, I also teach English to the II year novices and write the house diary. So it is a peaceful life, regular life and I can be faithful to my spiritual life and community exercises.

We come across you as a person charged with positive energy. Can you tell us the secret?

It is an attitude I have cultivated from the earliest days in the Society. I have had many Jesuit models in this. There have also been some who have been negative and they have irked me.

What fires your passion for teaching?

Teaching has interested me from my Regency onwards. I had opportunity to interact and learn from exemplary teachers in Juniorate, Philosophy, Theology and in schools I have worked in. I see it as an apostolate and greatly like it.

Of all ministries you have undertaken, which one do you like the most? Why?

Most of my life after Theology and Ordination has been spent in schools. But I had the unique opportunity to work as a parish priest in a small parish of Bellary Diocese. (Now it is a part of Gulbarga Diocese). Those 6 months in Chittapur were the happiest of my life as a Priest.

You are person who likes change and innovation. How have you seen the Society change over the years? Has this change been for the better or for the worse?

I firmly believe that the change in the Church and the Society is inspired by Vatican II. It is the response to the call to “See the signs of the times.” With the Church, the Society too has been responding to the call of Vatican II, to go back to the sources and heed the signs of the times. St Ignatius himself called for a change, an ongoing change, a “MAGIS” – don’t stop, keep on doing better.

What is 'the important thing' that the Society of Jesus has taught to you as a life lesson?

It will take long to enumerate what the Society has taught me. We have to be torch-bearers. We have to work for promoting faith that does justice. We have to love the poor.

If you are given a second chance to live, what will be your choice?
Hard to say. The choice for me would be schools or distant missions like Afghanistan, Guyana or even Bijapur and Pannur-Manvi. Thank You Father.

O Man, Where are you?

2011-11-10T11:57:00.000+05:30

Novice Leston Baptist Lobo has employed his creative energy in composing a short poem about 'he' which means the human person and 'He' who is God. In a symbolic and crisp style, Leston tries to portray the ill effects of abusing God's creation. Creation is more than an artwork - it is God's gift to us. We have failed to protect it. It is high time that we do something about it.

He dreamt an impossible dream,
Risking a creation of another 'He',
Had trust in the skies and hope in the clouds,
Still, He did create a 'he', a problem.
He thought, "How good 'he' would be?
How great 'he' will become?"
But in the end, 'he' failed to be another 'He'
to fulfil 'His' plans for 'him'.
'he' stamped all that 'He' created,
he coloured in dark hues 'His' naturality,
he repeatedly stepped backwards.
Still, 'he' feels that 'He' did it all!

Eco Treasures at Mount St Joseph

2011-11-07T10:14:00.002+05:30

Finding God in all things Mount St Joseph is an abode of rich flora and fauna, awash with a variety of plant and animal species. A spider spotted in one of our gardens and captured in frame by Novices Noel Dias and Nithin Coelho shows this very vividly. Every creature and every plant in our campus tells 'a fascinating news...God still loves the world!' Noel writes about his experience with his 'friend, the spider' as follows

Noel Stephen Dias: I was walking across the natural gardens of Mount when I spotted a huge spider hanging over my head. I was wonder struck to observe God’s creation so beautiful and unique. Every creature teaches me something or the other to cherish for life. Likewise, the spider was patient enough to wait for its food and that’s the value I learnt from my new friend – PATIENCE. To remind me of my new friend, I decided to keep its memory and the value of the lesson it taught me forever in a photograph. I want to thank God for His wonderful creation. “Everyone is created unique. It is we who learn something from others and make the best of our lives."

Retreats (January - May 2012)

2011-11-05T18:39:00.001+05:30

Retreats - Dhyanashrama (Mount St Joseph)

03-11 Jan: Come and rest awhile (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

13-21 Jan: God is my Shepherd (Fr John Baptist)

23-31 Jan: Walking with the Lord (Fr Simon Furtado)

02-10 Feb: Lord, let me see your face (Fr John Baptist)

12-20 Feb: Called to be a disciple of Jesus (Fr Francis Menezes)

21-29 Feb: Call to Conversion (Fr Denis Coelho)

02-10 Mar: Walking with Him to Calvary (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

12-20 Mar: Love of the suffering Lord (Fr Denis Coelho)

22-30 Mar: “Behold the Wood of the Cross” (Fr Tom Quadros)

01-08 Apr: Body Broken, Blood Shed (Fr William Sequeira)

11-19 Apr: Walking with the Risen Lord (Fr John Baptist)

22-30 Apr: ‘then their eyes were opened’ (Fr Tom Quadros)

02-10 May: Relishing His presence (Fr John Baptist)

12-20 May: Basking in the Lord’s love (Fr Simon Furtado)

12-20 May: Eco-Spirituality retreat (Fr Leo D’Souza)

MONTH’S RETREATS

02-31 Mar: 30-Day Retreat (Fr John Baptist)

For further details, contact:

The Director
Mount St Joseph (Dhyanashrama)
IIMB PO, Kalena Agrahara,
Bannerghatta Road
Bangalore - 560 076.
Tel: 080-26580441, 26585464
E-mail: dhyanashrama@gmail.com
Blog: www.msjnov.blogspot.com

The Depth of my Being

2011-11-03T14:41:00.000+05:30

From the depth of his heart Novice Rohan Prakash D'Souza has penned a touching poem which might well be his encounter experience with the Lord. It is amazing to see how God who resides in the depth of our being brings a change of heart once we become convinced of His presence. Let us get into deeper waters with the sentiments expressed in this work of love.

The uncountable stars of the sky,
The expanse of the vast sea,
The unrelenting dryness of the desert.
All these show me the depth of my being.
I was amazed to see my own life.
The empty desires of my heart,
I understood that my love for God was distant.
How difficult it is to surrender to Him!
I lived with my many disquieting questions.
My fears and struggles were without answers.
I was not satisfied or clear about my life journey.
My heart, still, desired for the Truth.
The mystery of God had remained as history,
The burden of life still a burden.
Then He called me in the depth of my being,
To see the wooden cross at Calvary.
He left me surprised and speechless,
And let me see Him carrying my burden.
Now, I just trust Him in the depth of my being,
Because it is the only place where I "Rest in my Being."

ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವ - ನನ್ನ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಕನ್ನಡ ನಾಡು

2011-11-01T10:19:00.003+05:30

ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವ - ಈ ದಿನವು ಕನ್ನಡಿಗರಿಗೆ ವಿಶೇಷವಾದ ದಿನ. ಕನ್ನಡ ನಾಡು, ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಯನ್ನು ಹೊಗಳಿ ಗೌರವಿಸುವ ದಿನವಿದು. ನವಶಿಷ್ಯ ರೋಹನ್ ಈ ದಿನದ ವಿಶೇಷತೆಯನ್ನು "ನನ್ನ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಕನ್ನಡ ನಾಡು" ಮುಖಾಂತರ ಸುಂದರವಾಗಿ ವರ್ಣಿಸುತ್ತಾನೆ.

ಕನ್ನಡದ ವೀರ ಪುತ್ರಪುತ್ರಿಯರೇ, ಭರತ ಮಣ್ಣಿನ ವೀರಪ್ರಜೆಗಳೇ, ಬನ್ನಿ ನಾವೆಲ್ಲರೂ ಸೇರಿ ಹಾಡೋಣ "ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವ." ಕಾಡು, ಜಲ ಸಂಪತ್ತು ಬೆಳೆಸಿರುವ ನಾಡಿದು, ಮಲೆನಾಡು, ಆಗುಂಬೆಗಳಂತಹ ಭವ್ಯ ತಾಣವಿದು, ಕನ್ನಡ ಮಾತೆಯ ಪೂಜಿಸಿ ಆರಾಧಿಸುವ ದೇಗುಲವಿದು, ಭರತ ಲೋಕದ ಪ್ರಕೃತಿಯ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಕಣ್ಮಣಿಯಿದು. ಬೇಲೂರು, ಹಳೇಬೀಡುಗಳಂತಹ ಶಿಲ್ಪಗಳ ದೇಗುಲವಿದು, ಸಮುದ್ರಗಳ ಅಲೆಗಳ ಮೇಲೆ ಜೀವನ ನಡೆಸುವ ಬೆಸ್ತರ ನಾಡಿದು, ಕವಿ ಋಷಿಗಳು ಬೆಳೆಸಿ, ನೆಲೆಸಿರುವ ಪುಣ್ಯಕೋಟಿ ಕವನದ, ಕನ್ನಡಿಗರ ಹೋರಾಟದ ಫಲವಿದು "ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವ."

The Spiritual Exercises (Month-Retreat )

2011-10-31T12:10:00.000+05:30

Alone with the Alone: Greetings from Mount St Joseph Novitiate, Bangalore. It gives us great joy to inform you that we, the Ten First Year Novices, are beginning our Spiritual Exercises (Month-retreat) on 1 November under the guidance of Fr Willie Sequeira, our Novice Director. We earnestly request you to pray for us, so that our inner journey with Christ Jesus may be fruitful, that we may be able to experience God’s unconditional love for us and that the great plan God has for us be fulfilled.

It is our humble request that you pray for our sixteen second year Brothers, as they are going to begin their Mission Experiment, an outward journey with the Lord. During these precious days, we too assure you of our prayers for your forthcoming mission.

Seeking your prayers and blessings, Yours in Christ Jesus

First Year Novices - Mount St Joseph, Bangalore.

Tapping the Inner Resources - Intensive Journal

2011-10-24T16:54:00.004+05:30

Fr Francis Menezes, the Rector, initiated the First Year Novices into the process of self-discovery by taking a 3-day course on Intensive Journal. Silence and calm descended again in the Novitiate when the First year Novices journeyed into themselves into rediscovering their real selves. The journey was an exciting experience as the course cruised silently through the Life Dimensions, hopped over the Stepping Stone Period, veered around the Life Intersections and offered the unforgettable experience of facing the Twilight Imagery. Fr Francis who has guided many through his courses on Intensive Journal has shown us yet again the importance of self-knowledge. We are grateful to Fr Francis Menezes for his loving service.

“Compare yourself with nobody and you will be the most handsome or beautiful in the world” Karna Lama Karki

It's Curtains Down on the Silver Jubilarians' Course

2011-10-18T11:17:00.007+05:30

After a month’s stay with the Lord, the 38 participants of the Renewal Course for Silver Jubilarians headed home. The course started on September 11 has seen a favourable response from all the participants. A course is a time of vivid encounter with the Lord. It is a time to manure the garden of our inner selves to yield greater harvest. The guidance and help of the experts, the support staff and the green ambience here provided the participants with much needed rest with self-reflection. As a final and most important part of the course, Frs Arock, Francis Menezes and Maxim Misquith directed the participants into the deep waters with a week’s retreat. A day of sharing and evaluation and the final conclusion on October 15 placed the icing on the cake and brought down the curtains on the course which has surely been a blessing in the life of the participants.

"Learn to pause...or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you." - Doug King

Just a Quiz - No Exam Nerves!

2011-10-15T10:54:00.008+05:30

Taking a break from the routine, a quiz was conducted in the Novitiate on 14 October. To get into a huddle and to work in teams, 4 groups were created. The topics were vast enough for everybody to comment and prepare, but it was very relaxing. Covering almost the entire syllabus done in the classes and including current events and other topics, the quiz gave us a thorough brush up on our studies. Novice Vincent pens down his experiences as follows

VINCENT VIJAYAKUMAR: After a long gap, we had a quiz session which kept me thinking for an hour. Our librarians did a fantastic job in preparing the quiz. I personally think that the quiz has even more closely fastened the cord of our relationships in the community. The questions fascinated me and there was a good spirit of competition in all the groups. It was a time for us to relax in a virtual ‘exam hall.' Although I was in the team of losers, I calmly accepted my defeat. It has helped me to improve my knowledge beyond horizons.

ಅಮ್ಮ, ನೀ ನನ್ನ ಸರ್ವಸ್ವ

2011-10-13T20:35:00.004+05:30

ತಾಯಿ ತೋರಿದ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯು ದೇವರ ಪ್ರೀತಿಗೆ ಸಮಾನ ಎಂಬ ಮನೋಭಾವವನ್ನು ನವಶಿಷ್ಯ ಜೋಯಲ್ ಸಂದೀಪ್ ಈ ಕವನದ ಮುಖಾಂತರ ಸಾರುತ್ತಾರೆ.

ನಾ ಉದರದಲ್ಲಿ ಜನ್ಮಪಡೆದಾಗಲಿಂದ
ನಾ ಬೆಳೆದು ದೊಡ್ದವನಾಗುವರೆಗೂ,
ನನಗೆ ಆಸರೆಯಾಗಿ ನಿಲ್ಲುವಳು ಒಬ್ಬಳೇ.
ಅವಳೇ ನನ್ನ ಅಮ್ಮ, ನನ್ನ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ತಾಯಿ.

ತನ್ನತನವನ್ನು ಮರೆತು ದುಡಿಯುವಳು;
ತನ್ನ ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಏಳಿಗೆಗಾಗಿ ಅವಳು,
ಕಷ್ಟಗಳನ್ನು ತಾನೆ ನುಂಗಿ ಸುಖವನ್ನು ಕೊಡುತ್ತ,
ಬೆಳೆಸಿದಳು ಅವಳು ನನ್ನನ್ನು ಪ್ರೀತಿಸಿ ಮುದ್ದಾಡುತ್ತಾ.

ಅವಳ ಅಪರಿಮಿತ ಪ್ರೀತಿಗೆ ಪ್ರತಿಯಾಗಿ ನಾನೇನು ಕೊಡಲಿ?
ಅವಳು ತೋರಿದ ಪ್ರೀತಿ ವಾತ್ಸಲ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಕೊಡುಗೆಯಾಗಿ,
ಅವಳ ಆಸೆಯನ್ನು ಪೂರೈಸಿ,
ಅವಳ ನಿಸ್ವಾರ್ಥ ಸೇವೆಗೆ ಚಿರಋಣಿಯಾಗಿ ಬಾಳಿ,
ಅಮ್ಮ ಎಂಬ ಪಾತ್ರಕ್ಕೆ ಮೆರುಗು ನೀಡಬೇಕು.

Fr Rector takes a bow on his Birthday!

2011-10-11T21:15:00.002+05:30

All eyes were on Fr Francis Menezes, our dear Rector, as he celebrated his birthday, today, on 11 October. The day began for him with a very cheerful note - Soon after the wishes from the community scores of visitors came over to wish him; often wishing songs resonated in the house. Though he was over the moons today, the day was by no means relaxing. By evening, Fr Rector must have clasped at least a thousand hands!

The community as a family joined Fr Rector in the evening in thanking the Lord in a very meaningful Eucharistic celebration. In the evening, the Novices put a short birthday programme, with a skit which was very symbolic and was also a barrel of laughs. Fr Rector poured his heart out in a few words of gratitude that he expressed towards the end of the programme. As Fr Rector turns another leaf in his life of dedicated service, we wish him a very happy birthday and success in his endeavours.
"I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you." Jeremiah 31:3

Provincial’s Annual Visitation - A Time of Grace!

2011-10-09T13:35:00.001+05:30

Fr Francis Serrao, the Provincial, was in everyone’s lips here in Mount St Joseph as he came for the annual visitation from 02 to 06 October. His visit made us hark back to the visit and stay of Fr General in March this year. Indeed the visitation was a time of grace for all in the community, especially the Novices who constantly besought him for his blessings and words of advice in view of the Month’s Retreat and Mission Experiment which will commence in November . Fr Provincial's visit has strengthened all the members of the community spiritually. We are sure that his guidance will stand us in good stead in the near future. We thank the Lord for this grace.

Interview with Fr Javier Melloni SJ

2011-10-07T10:54:00.007+05:30

Fr Javier Melloni SJ of the Spiritual Centre of the cave of St Ignatius in Manresa, Spain was here with us in September. Here are the excerpts of the interview with him.

Can you tell us about your work and the challenges in your mission?

I teach Theology in the Faculty of Theology of Catalonia (Barcelona). In the West, in spite of the secularism one can see a quest for spirituality. The main challenge is to offer a deep experience of God. God is the Abba of Jesus, the original fountain of everything. We are called to lead people to the source of their self, in the cave of their heart - from the exterior cave (St Ignatius’ cave) to their personal inner cave.

Father, what do you focus on in the retreat center?

Ignatian Spirituality leads to a deep experience of God that transforms the heart in order to find God in every person and in everything. Our goal is to lead people into the same experience of the Pilgrim (St Ignatius). People expect from us to have an open-mind and an open-heart and the wisdom of discernment in order to lead them in the depths of God and the Reality.

What gives you joy in the work that you do? What keeps you going? (Your personal inspiration)

When I live authentically and faithfully, when I celebrate the Eucharist with all my soul and with all my heart, then words, actions and thoughts flow luminous from within and they reach the hearts of the seekers. I am also in the Inter- Religious field. The encounters and meetings with other believers also nourish me.

What is the role of Ignatian spirituality in today's context?

The main contribution of Ignatian spirituality is the understanding of spiritual life as a process, a process from self-centredness to selflessness. What has to be discerned is whether a particular practice makes me more and more open to God, to others and to the world. It is not about contents but about dynamics. That is why Ignatian spirituality is very fit for our times.

What is the most important quality required of a Jesuit in the face of modern challenges?

The word ‘Jesuit’ comes from the Latin word “Jesu-ita” which means: “at the manner” (Ita) of Jesus,” “like Jesus”. So, like Jesus, two main things are required: to be rooted in the depth of the Father, the ultimate mystery of everything, and to be open to humankind, particularly the poorest and the excluded.

How can we attract the youth to Ignatian spirituality?

The characteristic of youth is authenticity, open mindedness, capacity to take risks and daring. If we live authentically, if we risk for the Lord and for the Gospel - that certainty will attract the youth; not because it is a strategy but because our lives will have the taste of Truth. That is what exactly happened with Jesus. We only have to be ita- Jesus, like Him.

Can you tell what it is to be a saint in today’s world?

To be a saint is the purpose of our vocation: to surrender our whole being to Christ. That means to feel, to look, to listen & to talk like Him. It requires all our life to make that transformation.

What did you like the most about your stay in India?

What I admire the most in Indians is the sense of the Divine. This gives you a very particular sense of life because you are deeply connected with the Absolute.

Thank You Fr Javier. (Interviewed by Novices Praveen Martis & Joseph Jerald)

Personalising the Feedback

2011-10-05T10:54:00.004+05:30

Sharun Roy D’Souza: Every Jesuit is called to lead a life of action, reflection, evaluation and transformation. Feedback becomes an essential part of our Jesuit life. Fear and anxiety troubled within me when I faced the feedback for the first time. I gradually learnt the power of feedback sessions as it supplemented my self-knowledge. I have always been grateful to my companions for helping me grow after the feedbacks. The feedback that was held recently has also been useful to me like all the others that have come before and I am seeing a tremendous growth in me.

Leston Baptist Lobo: “A brother is a friend given by God to me!” Many questions dotted my mind as I began preparations for the feedback - Do I accept my brothers as they are? Do I reach out my hand in helping them grow? I felt responsible for my brothers. It was a time to walk hand-in-hand with my Lord and my companions. I was equally eager to receive and give feedback. I prayed sincerely for my companions during the past three days and hence I notice a warmth in my relationship with God and my companions.

Feedback Sessions - Pros and Cons!

2011-10-03T15:46:00.000+05:30

The Joe-Hari window states that there are many shades in our personalities about which we are unaware. It is precisely for this reason that our Novitiate conducts feedback exercise every year at regular intervals. Each novice gets a complete feedback from his companions seated in a full circle. This year the Novitiate went into ‘feedback mode’ on 27, 28 and 29 September. It is not always pleasant receiving a feedback. The person receiving a feedback faces the 'firing squad' at point blank range! Though we were glum and gleeful after the sessions, we experienced tremendous growth in self-knowledge. Harold Bowden has aptly said, "Facts that are not frankly faced have a habit of stabbing us in the back." To internalize the lessons learnt, a day of recollection followed immediately after the feedback. Touching all the aspects of our nascent life in the Society of Jesus, the feedback became a very comprehensive and a constructive process.

"Each Year, one vicious habit rooted out, in time ought to make the worst man good" - Franklin

Athma Shakti Vidyalaya - A Haven of Love and Service

2011-10-01T14:56:00.007+05:30

“I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:36) Athma Shakti Vidyalaya is a therapeutic community devoted to the care and rehabilitation of the mentally challenged young men and women. The name means a school of the power of the soul. It saw the light of day in 1979, when a group of concerned counsellors, psychotherapists and parents joined hands to form a registered non-profit charitable society with a main thrust of bringing stability and competence back into the youngsters facing mental difficulties, especially Schizophrenia. A maximum of 24 youngsters can be placed here. In the safe hands of experts and placed in a community, the patients with an average age of 20-30 years learn to have a hold over their feelings, to be reasonable, to accept oneself and then to gradually merge into the challenges of normal living. The patients receive a holistic psychotherapy treatment that channels their inner strength in effecting recovery, instead of relying on medication. Fr Henry (Hank) Nunn, the shepherd of this bouquet of charity and service has, by his diligent efforts, made it see its finest hour.

Athma Shakti Vidyalaya can be contacted as follows:

No. 113, Madhuban Colony, B.G. Raod, Hulimavu Village, Bangalore - 560 076. Tel: +918026581564. Email: frhanknunn@hotmail.com

My Learnings from the Inter-Novitiate Seminar

2011-09-29T13:36:00.003+05:30

Roydon Misquith: Martin Luther says, “The prosperity of a country does not depend on the beauty of its buildings rather it consists in the number of its men of enlightenment and character.” This saying adequately reflects the lessons that I have learnt from the recently conducted Inter-Novitiate Seminar on "Fundamentalism and Inter-religious Dialogue." Fr Terence Farias SJ broadened my knowledge and brought a change in my idea about religion and culture. I am grateful to everyone who has been responsible for helping me change my view of other faiths.

Calvin: The only way, according to me, to promote peace and unity among different religions is by Inter-Religious Dialogue. The relevance of this much spoken topic was adumbrated by the Inter-Novitiate course on "Fundamentalism and Inter-Religious Dialogue." It opened the closed windows of my mind to understand and accept the values and richness of other religions and showed me how in unity we can promote peace and justice. Mutual respect among the people of different faiths can go a long way in building up the Kingdom of God.

My Mother, the Society of Jesus

2011-09-27T10:31:00.000+05:30

Mother, you are the trust and virtue of my world
It is because of you I have a vision for my life
It is to you that I owe my existence and my entire life

Mother, you are my everything
Mother, you are the essence of my being
Mother, you are within me
Mother, you are the wonder
I do not fear as you bring strength
You are beyond words and expressions
You are my life's most beautiful gift
And I am indebted to you forever,
My sweet Mother!
(This poem flowed out of novice Vinod Saldanha's heart on 27 September, the day which marked the approval of the Society of Jesus)

Building Bridges Over Creeks of Hatred

2011-09-26T17:24:00.001+05:30

It was an Inter-Novitiate Course that really shook us up and made us listen with total attention. The third Inter-Novitiate Course of the year on the topic "Fundamentalism and Inter-Religious Dialogue" was held from 19 to 21 September. No other person would have been apt to take the lead other than Fr Terence Farias, Superior of Manvi Jesuit Mission. As time passed by and as new ideas were introduced to us, our misgivings about other religious persuasions bit the dust. Fr Terence with his characteristic flair and expertise showed us the need to respect all religions as pathways to one God who makes no distinctions. The words “People of other faiths are not our competitors rather they are our collaborators”, from the Second Vatican Council was the slogan of the entire course.

The gritty videos on Mangalore Church attacks and the plight of the tormented Christians of Kandhamal showed us how mishandling of the idea of religion for ulterior motives can wreak havoc on innocent faithful. We are called to be truly religious and truly loving and caring persons. Let us join together and give witness to the liberation of our country. “There are many faiths, but the spirit is one, in me, in you and in everyone” Leo Tolstoy.

Interview with Fr Simon Furtado SJ

2011-09-25T12:00:00.003+05:30

(Novice Praveen Martis spoke to Fr Simon Furtado on the occasion of his 93rd birthday. Here are the excerpts of the Interview)

How special has your 93rd birthday been to you?

I got up that morning with this song going on in my head: “And when I die, ‘Hallelujah I will cry, I will fly away, O Glory, I will fly away...”

Father, you are a man fascinated by the Word of God. Can you speak about it?

It was my father who taught me to love the Bible. After he retired from government service, in Africa, the whole family shifted to Richmond Town, Bangalore. My father took me daily to 5:30 a.m. Mass in St Patrick’s Church. And the way he participated in the Mass was the best lesson for me. He was very happy when I joined the Jesuits. The Word of God is creative and touches the depth of our being. The Bible was written by men and women moved by the Spirit. And when I read that Word, the Spirit contained in it touches my subconscious and transforms me.

How would you like to describe your life, if you are asked to do so in one word?

BIBLE.

What keeps you active and energetic?

The WORD OF GOD. We are told in the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius that the subject of the morning meditation should be recalled before going to bed. There is deep spirituality behind this. When I lie down in bed and repeat the sentence which summarises the morning meditation, the subconscious continues to repeat it even when I am fast asleep. It enters the subconscious and touches and cures the tendencies to sin. Six, seven, eight hours wasted in bed are now sanctified.

Happy Birthday Fr Furtado!

2011-09-22T15:43:00.003+05:30

A grand celebration was awaiting Fr Simon Furtado on 22 September when he celebrated his 93rd birthday. He was in great spirits. He waved his hands gleefully when the Novices sang a birthday song for him. He took extra time to squeak and blabber at his best friends, the Love birds in front of the cage. In the community Mass at 7.15 p.m. he broke the shell of reticence and recounted his past days - the time of his Baptism, his naming after St Moras, the first book he bought (on the life of St Moras), his brief stint in Nagaland, the call to be a co-worker with Jesus and the consolation he gets in his present retreat ministry. What is amazing and inspiring in Fr Furtado is that despite his advanced age, he doesn’t take the help of even a walking stick! He is actively involved in giving retreats. It seems that time takes a backfoot as he goes stronger and lively as the days pass. As Fr Furtado clears another milestone in his life, we wish him well and ask God to bless him abundantly.
"Our lives live on forever in the lives we touch."

Courses at Prerana (October 2011 - May 2012)

2011-09-20T15:59:00.006+05:30

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2011

Oct 17-27: RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP

Nov 6-12: COURSE ON NLP (Only 16 seats)

Nov 13-22: IGNATIAN - GUIDED NLP RETREAT (Only 16 seats)

Dec 4-10: DISCERNMENT OF SPIRITS APPLIED TO PROVINCE/GENERAL CHAPTERS AND DECISION MAKING

JANUARY - MAY 2012

Jan 8-14: PRAYER - Finding God in all things

Jan 15-21: TEACHER FOR TODAY - A RENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR TEACHERS & EDUCATORS

Jan 22-28: SPIRITUALITY OF RELIGIOUS LIFE - LIFE IN THE SPIRIT

Feb 5-11: RELIGIOUS SUPERIORS AS EFFECTIVE ANIMATORS & LEADERS ACCORDING TO IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY

Feb 15-25: REFRESHER FOR FORMATORS (Renewal for Formators & Spiritual Guides)

March 2-4: COURSE ON ECO-SPIRITUALITY

March 7-17: COURSE ON RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP

April 12-May 14: COURSE ON RETREAT DIRECTION ( For those who are or will go into Retreat Ministry)

*********************************************

For further details, contact:
The Programme Coordinator
Mount St Joseph (Prerana)
IIMB PO, Kalena Agrahara,
Bannerghatta Road
Bangalore - 560 076.
Tel: 080-26485778, 25979499, 32402408
E-mail: preranaisc@gmail.com
Blog: www.msjnov.blogspot.com

2011-09-16T21:09:00.000+05:30

After the Horizon competitions, the novices are filled with new experiences which they would like to share with you. One of the novices, Vasanth, writes his experiences with us - A lot of painstaking efforts went into this year’s Horizon competitions. It was a steady movement into looking at my life’s goals. The week of activities passed off like a flash. Horizon increased my confidence to face challenges. It not only increased the level of self-confidence in all of us but also helped us know our hidden talents and qualities. There was a hidden role in this year’s Horizon in building the community and creating in me the spirit of belongingness to a group. This is why I value my experiences in participating in Horizon.

Horizon 2011 – A Resume of Events

2011-09-15T13:57:00.004+05:30

Horizon 2011 took off with a blast with a short opening ceremony. Fr Rector was the Chief Guest who warmed us up to the coming days of intense activities. The leaders of the four groups presented meaningful symbols for their group. Managing the show from behind were Novices Jaison Lobo and Infant Vivian, who have been slogging together to chart out the work plan. Competitions were underway forthwith which started off with a mime competition. Here is a list of ordinary, brilliant and bizarre competitions that made Horizon 2011 come alive. Moves of the Mouth less - Mime competition; Make Way for His Majesty - King of the Novitiate; Sing your voice out - Wishing Song; War on the Boards - Chess and Carom; The Brownie Basket - Fun Games; Saffron ball Blitzkrieg - Basketball match; The Ball in Your Court - Volleyball match; Mock the Mocking Bird - Mimicry; Breath ball Showdown - Table Footer; Orator’s Momentum - Declamation; The Icing on the Cake - Cultural Programme.

On 11 September, the curtains were down on the event, culminating in a splendid cultural programme. Fr Francis Menezes, the Rector, congratulated the Novices and wished them well. Horizon 2011 has energized us with renewed spirits and we hope to keep the energy aflame for many more days to come.

Renewal Course for the Silver Jubilarians at Prerana

2011-09-12T13:51:00.002+05:30

(11 September - 15 October, 2011) Looking Back With Gratitude: Prerana (Ignatian Spirituality Centre) is back into action this time by hosting a renewal course for the Silver Jubilarians, lasting for a little over a Month’s duration. Life of dedication to the Lord as religious brings many a milestone which needs preparation. Sometimes, after a long journey the spirit is enervated. Hence this course, which aims to pump more fuel to keep the spirit burning with ever greater zeal. The course consists of a series of seminars engaged by experts in ‘the School of the Heart.’ A thorough brush up on the various aspects of the religious life like prayer, discernment, community life, psycho-spiritual integration, maturing in religious life, etc. is bound to scale up the temperature of the heart and provide a time of renewal and rest in the idyllic surroundings of Mount St Joseph.

A New Shoot Comes Forth from the Stem of Jesse

2011-09-09T11:37:00.002+05:30

Nativity of our Lady: (A New Shoot Comes Forth from the Stem of Jesse) The Jesuit family at Mount St Joseph came together to celebrate the feast around the Lord’s Table in the morning. In the novitiate, we were logged in the ongoing Horizon activities. We cherished the togetherness during the Lunch with the customary vegetarian lunch with coconut milk. Fr Rector blessed the new harvest. The movie in the afternoon and a game of cricket in the evening was very relaxing. Though we missed the presence of Fr Willie our novice master, Fr Sunil made up for it by his presence. He joined us for the walking Rosary from the entrance of the house to the ‘Grotto Garden.’ The presence of the Lord and the love of Mother Mary were very palpable in the unity and the family feeling we cherished today. “For the Queen and Immaculate Bride of the Father comes forth from the stem of Jesse. Behold, no woman will ever again bear child in sorrow or anxiety, for joy has come forth in abundance, and life has filled the world.” - BYZANTINE LITURGY

The Nativity of our Beloved Mother Mary

2011-09-08T07:33:00.001+05:30

The Mount St Joseph Community wishes you all a happy and blessed feast of the Nativity of our Lady. “Behold the Handmaid of the Lord; Be it done to me according to Your Word.” May we contemplate and imitate our Blessed Mother in our daily lives.

“Mary’s response is the most momentous word in history.” - Reinhold Schneider

My Experience of the Pilgrimage

2011-09-07T13:37:00.000+05:30

Gladwin Fernandes: The pilgrimage was a time for me to confirm my own faith in God. As a pilgrim, my heart was longing to well up with the love of God. Then, as I floated along the way to the shrine of Mother Mary, I had a slight glimpse into the “monuments of the busy souls.” Though my heart was perpetually jumping for God’s love, I noticed that the people were busy with their daily activities and at at the same time some people were eagerly awaiting to receive the love of their heavenly Mother. These scenes stunned me. I realized my own devotion to the creator as a path to check the rootedness of my faith in God. I reckon that my longing for God has borne many fruits in my life.

Pilgrimage to the Basilica - Walking with our Lady

2011-09-06T19:12:00.002+05:30

Walking with our Lady to her Abode - Pilgrimage to the Basilica of our Lady of Good Health: The Novitiate was into the mood of recollection on the 6^th of September when the novices took to their feet early at the start of the day and headed to the Basilica for the pilgrimage. It was a unique experience to walk to the shrine where the faithful of all religions flock. The pilgrimage was made in silence together with praying the Rosary. It helped us prepare for the feast of the birth of our blessed Mother Mary. As we let the faith of the simple people touch and influence us, we experienced a renewal and strengthening of our personal faith in the Lord.
“Like pilgrims to the appointed place we tend; the world’s an inn, and death the journey's end.” - John Dryden

Shooting to the Skies - HORIZON 2011

2011-09-03T09:42:00.002+05:30

Horizon 2011, a series of competitions and activities for the novices of Mount St. Joseph will kick start today. Four groups will compete with each other beginning with a mime competition to be held today. A potpourri of intellectually challenging activities and fun games are interspersed with the regular timetable over a good span of ten days. By giving ourselves fully during the preparations we wish to come out stronger, faster and built into a cohesive group which is better prepared to face the challenges of the mission head on.

Young Priests' Meeting - Prerana, MSJ.

2011-08-31T14:55:00.003+05:30

Youthful vibrancy and enthusiasm was evident in the ambience of Mount St Joseph when the young priests of our Province gathered at Prerana for the Young Priests’ Meet. It was time to unwind with the Lord and our companions. “It is the love and acceptance of others that make us the unique persons that we are!” The meeting was held on 27 & 28 August and was attended by almost all. The schedule included talk, sharing and discussion with Fr Willie Sequeira. In his inimitable style, Fr Freddie D’Silva highlighted the need to be priests of depth, creativity and spirituality in today’s context. Of course, Fr Freddie has challenged us to be loyal, happy and creative Jesuits. Our dear Provincial, Fr Francis Serrao, banking on his immense experience offered us some important guiding principles to be faithful and fruitful priests in our ministries.

The First meeting of the young Priests was relaxing and refreshing. All felt that it was memorable and meaningful. We are grateful to Fr Freddie for accompanying us on our life journey. Fr Sunil Fernandes, the Coordinator of the event left no stones unturned to effectively marshal the activities meticulously. We express our heart-felt gratitude for the cordial and bountiful hospitality to the Mount St Joseph Community. Frs Francis Menezes and Maxim Misquith merit our special thanks for making our stay enjoyable and revitalizing. (The next meeting of the Young Priests will be held in Jnana Jyothi, Anekal on 4 & 5 of February, 2012.)

Novena in Honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2011-08-29T15:05:00.003+05:30

The Feast of the Birth of Mary on 8 September is a special one. The Themes of the novena help us to prepare to celebrate this family feast. The Nativity of our Lady provides us with an occasion for praise and thanksgiving in honour of the personal sanctity and vocation of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the mother of the Lord Jesus. The 7 S’s of Mary - see, search, surrender, service, struggle, sacrifice and song - speak of the vicissitudes of her vocation. Br Roger Schutz says, “The more the Church models her life on Mary, the more maternal she becomes and the more a believer can be reborn of God in her and achieve reconciliation.” Mary is our mother because Christ the Lord gave her to us as a mother. We may call upon her and ask her to intercede with God.

The different themes of the Novena in honour of our beloved Mother Mary are as follows:

Day 01: Mother Mary, Our Mother and Mother of the Church

Day 02: Mother Mary, A Model of Obedience

Day 03: Mother Mary, The First and Most Perfect Disciple

Day 04: Mother Mary, Mother of the Poor

Day 05: Mother Mary, The Queen and Mother of the Society

Day 06: Mother Mary, A Model of Humility

Day 07: Mother Mary, The Model of Courage and Confidence

Day 08: Mother Mary, A Model for all Religious

Day 09: Mother Mary, A Courageous Woman

ಭಾರತ ಅಂದು-ಇಂದು

2011-08-25T08:32:00.000+05:30

ಒಂದಾನೊಂದು ಕಾಲದಲ್ಲಿ ಭರತನು ಕಟ್ಟಿದ ನಾಡು
ಹಲವು ಜಾತಿ, ಧರ್ಮ, ಭಾಷೆಗಳ ಬೀಡು
ಎಲ್ಲರ ಮೈಮನ ಸೆಳೆಯುವ ಈ ಸುಂದರ ನಾಡು
ಅದುವೇ ಈ ನಮ್ಮ ಭಾರತ ನಾಡು

ಶಾಂತಿ-ಕ್ರಾಂತಿ, ಹಿಂಸೆ-ಅಹಿಂಸೆ ಎಂಬ ಬಲಿಷ್ಠ ಅಸ್ತ್ರದಿಂದ
ಹೊರದಬ್ಬಿದರು ಪರಕೀಯರನ್ನು ಈ ನಾಡಿನಿಂದ
ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯವನ್ನು ಕೊಡುಗೆಯಾಗಿ ನೀಡಿದರು ನಮಗೆ
ಕಾಪಾಡಿ, ರಕ್ಷಿಸಿ ಆಡಳಿತವ ಮಾಡಿ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರುನಮಗೆ

ನಿಶಕ್ತಿಯಿಂದ ಬಳಲುತ್ತಿದೆ ಈ ನಾಡು ಭ್ರಷ್ಟಾಚಾರ ಎಂಬ ರೋಗದಿಂದ
ಈ ರೋಗ ಸೃಷ್ಟಿಯಾಗಿ ಹರಡುತ್ತಿರುವುದು ಯಾರಿಂದ?
ನಮ್ಮೆಲ್ಲರ ದುರಾಸೆ, ಸ್ವಾರ್ಥಕತೆಯ ಪಾಪದ ಕೊಡದಿಂದ
ನಮ್ಮಿಂದ ಭರ್ತಿಯಾದ ಈ ಪಾಪದ ಕೊಡ ನಾವೇ ದೂರ ಚೆಲ್ಲಬೇಕು
ಬನ್ನಿ, ಕೈ ಜೋಡಿಸಿ ಈ ಭ್ರಷ್ಟಾಚಾರ ಎಂಬ ಪಾಪದ ಕೊಡವನ್ನು ಕಿತ್ತೊಗೆಯಬೇಕು
ಪುನಃ ನಮ್ಮ ನಾಡಿನ ವೈಭವ ಸರ್ವದಿಕ್ಕುಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಜ್ವಲಿಸಬೇಕು.
(ಈ ಕವನವನ್ನು ಬರೆದವರು ಜೋಯಲ್ ಸಂದೀಪ್)

I Will Sing His Praise

2011-08-19T08:55:00.000+05:30

With overflowing joy and gratitude, Fr Henry (Hank) Nunn celebrated his Diamond Jubilee in the Society of Jesus on 19 August 2011. Surely another feather in his cap. The Jubilee Mass was celebrated in the main chapel at 6.00 PM. Fr Willie Sequeira, the Novice Director, gave an inspiring homily fitting the mission of Fr Hank. The community sang together to wish him “Ad Multos Annos.” during the felicitation programme. The energetic and ever lively Fr Ronnie Prabhu, the toast master, steered fast into the nostalgic old days exploring the life of Fr Hank. The presence of our neighbouring religious, well wishers and friends added to our joy. “O give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His steadfast love endures forever.” - Psalm 118:1

Diamond Jubilee of Fr Hank on 19 August 2011

2011-08-17T10:06:00.000+05:30

Measuring up to the Call of God

2011-08-13T11:56:00.004+05:30

Inter-Novitiate Course on Psycho-Spiritual Integration - The Jesuit novices of Mount St. Joseph hosted the second inter-novitiate seminar of the year held in Prerana from August 7 to 12. Fr Kulandairaj SJ of Andhra Province was the resource person for the course. About 50 novices of five different religious congregations took part in this enriching course. In the five days covering many areas of the religious and apostolic life, the course laid emphasis on increasing self-awareness and confidence to face the challenges of modern religious life. “Let the one who wishes to live our life “take care, as long as he lives, first of all, to keep before his eyes God.” - The Formula of the Institute.

Hanging about with the Electrons!!!

2011-08-06T12:02:00.000+05:30

A basic knowledge and understanding about ‘Electronics and Electricals’ is perforce an useful skill. Fr Arockiasamy SJ in his 7-day crash course tried to impart to the novices the necessary practice to perform some work with wires and plugs. A well-equipped lab with 8 tables was arranged for the practical classes. With many analogies, examples and hints, Fr Arock proceeded with great care to ensure that our “wires did not get crossed!”

The course has really enhanced our taste in working with the line, the neutral and the earthing and has heightened our interest in the basic science covering this field. It has effectively dealt with our misguided fears and misgivings about electricity.

Celebrating the Soldier Saint – Placed with the Son

2011-08-02T12:27:00.000+05:30

We had a relaxing time on the feast day of St Ignatius of Loyola on 31 July. The MSJ community joined the parishioners early in the morning for the feast-day Eucharist in the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Kalenagrahara. The Liturgy and the choir was the domain of the Novices. Our neighbouring religious and well-wishers joined us for a short Prayer Service followed by Agape. In the evening, two different skits on the life of St Ignatius adapted to the present world were presented by two groups of novices during the community gathering. The activities of the day coupled with a diligent spiritual preparation made this day memorable.

Happy Feast of St Ignatius of Loyola

2011-07-31T11:51:00.002+05:30

We the Jesuits of MOUNT ST JOSEPH,
Wish You all
A Happy & Grace-filled
Feast of our Founder
ST IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA.

Inter-Novitiate Course: How & What of PRAYER

2011-07-25T11:21:00.001+05:30

Fr Bitaju of Trinity Ashram led the novices far into the vast and picturesque fields of Prayer in the 2-day seminar on "Prayer and Prayer Methods" in the neighbouring Alverna Bhavan. The first inter-novitiate course of the year was held on the 21^st and 22^nd of July. Fr Bitaju avoided clichés, effectively manoeuvred into the present context and challenges and narrowed down to the simplest forms of prayer that each of us can practice. The course was made interesting with visual aids, sharing of experiences and group activities. St Augustine says, “Prayer is what the believer asks the Lord in faith, hope and love.”

Novena in Honour of St Igantius of Loyola

2011-07-22T11:37:00.000+05:30

The different themes of the Novena in honour of our founder - St Ignatius of Loyola are as follows. These themes are taken from the book, "Noble Knight" - a prayerful preparation for the feast of St Ignatius and are centred mainly on the life of St Ignatius.

Day 01: Antecedents to an Extraordinary Vocation

Day 02: Loyola - Conversion. Special Graces

Day 03: Montserrat - Vigil. Offering

Day 04: Manresa - The Crucible

Day 05: Cardoner - Extraordinary Graces for others

Day 06: Holy Land - Personal Love for Christ

Day 07: Montmartre - Vows. Total Surrender

Day 08: La Storta - 'Placed with the Son'

Day 09: Unto the Indies - A Heart Larger than the World!

ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಕಿಡಿಗಳು - Sparks of Love

2011-07-16T10:23:00.005+05:30

ಭುವನದಲ್ಲಿ ಈ ಜೀವನ ದೇವರು ಕೊಟ್ಟಂತಹ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ವರದಾನ
ಹುಡುಕುವೆ ಏತಕೆ ಆ ದೇವನ ಅಲೆಯುವ ಏತಕೆ ಅನುಕ್ಷಣ
ಕಣಕಣದಲ್ಲಿಹುದು ಆತನ ತನುಮನ
ಪ್ರೀತಿಸುವ ಈ ಹೃದಯಕೆ ದ್ವೇಷದ ಹಗೆತನವೇಕೆ?
ಶಾಂತಿ ಸಾರುವ ಈ ಶರೀರಕೆ ಹಿಂಸೆ ನೀಡುವ ದಾಹವೇಕೆ?
ಅಳುವ ಕಣ್ಣಲ್ಲಿ ಕೆಂಪು ಕಣ್ಣೀರು ಬಡವರ ದೀನರ ನಿಟ್ಟುಸಿರು
ಈ ಕಣ್ಣಿನ ಕಣ್ಣೀರ ಒರೆಸುವವರಾರು? ಬಡವರ ದೀನರ ಸಂತೈಸುವವರಾರು?
ಯುವಕ ಯುವತಿಯರೇ ನೀವಾಗಿ ಬೆಂಕಿಯ ಕಿಡಿಗಳು
ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಹಂಚಿರಿ ಈ ಜಗದೊಳು ಸಮತೆಯ ಸಾರಿರಿ ಈ ಲೋಕದೊಳು
ಸವಿಯಿರಿ ಅದರ ರುಚಿಯ ಮನದೊಳು
( ಈ ಕವನವನ್ನು ಬರೆದವರು ಸಮೀರ್ ಫ್ರಾನ್ಸಿಸ್ )

Spicing up the Gardens with Ginger!

2011-07-14T08:59:00.000+05:30

Ginger cultivation has become a main involvement in the St Stanislaus Garden which is within the four walls of the Novitiate building. A visit to this garden will reveal rows of fresh green plants with slender stem and pointed leaves, bordering the four plots in a neat array. We started with a scratch this June when the roots were planted and the shoots sprung out within a month. The final result of the efforts is bound to be out within a year. As we thank the Lord for the good yield of last year, we aim to create a sequel to the previous success story. In these times when the condition of the hard pressed Indian farmers is exacerbated, the work with the ginger cultivation will surely help us enter into the experience of the struggling farmers of our country.

“Everything you can imagine is real” - Pablo Picasso.

First Probation - A New Life!

2011-07-05T13:55:00.000+05:30

Infant Vivian: First probation is a time for preparation for the future mission. It lays emphasis on reviewing the past, living the present and getting ready for the future. In other words, it is a time of intense testing of one’s vocation to the Society of Jesus. As I entered deeper into the spirit of the First Probation, all my fears gave way to the serenity that comes through the ambience of silence. I enjoyed the sweetness of silence which is a grace from the Lord. Silence was God’s point of entry into my self and His presence guided me to build good and lasting relationship with my companions, especially my room-mates and my guide.

Our Parish Feast at Kalena Agrahara, Bangalore.

2011-07-04T11:51:00.001+05:30

Seeking the Blessings of our Heavenly Mother- Parish Feast Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Kalenagrahara: An atmosphere of celebration ruled in the parish as the parish family came together to celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Fr Stany D’Souza, the Rector of St Joseph’s Indian High School, was here to celebrate the Feast Day Mass. After the Holy Eucharist, the parish family shared their love for each other and gave witness to their oneness as they had food together in the Parish ground. As an expression of their faith and gratitude for all the gifts that they have received in the past year the parishioners brought out a car procession in the evening. Fr John D’Souza the new captain of the ship effectively handled the reins to carve out a memorable day for the parishioners.

Entrance Day Experiences

2011-07-03T13:22:00.000+05:30

Cannon Fernandes: A motivating start is necessary at the beginning of any journey. The Entrance Day on the 2 July signaled the beginning of my Novitiate journey. The Liturgy gave added meaning about the significance of this day in my life. The warm wishes from the community, the grand dinner prepared for us, the fellowship and the companionship that I relished, all qualified the day as an unforgettable day to me.

Kiran Leema: We have come to ‘the Novitiate - the School of the Heart.’ This thought makes the Entrance Day very special and beautiful. The community welcomed me with a beautiful smile and with a large and joyful heart. For nearly 20 days, I was nurtured by my guide like a child in the womb of the mother during the period of silence and recollection in the First Probation. So on the Entrance Day, I entered again into feeling like a new born infant in the Society of Jesus.

Entrance Day for the New Novices

2011-07-02T11:09:00.000+05:30

Enter into the Joy of the Lord’s Home – Every passing year, the months of June and July become a special season in itself as it becomes a period of farewells and welcomes. July 2 added some more sugar and spice into the basket of our feelings as it was the Entrance Day of the incoming Novices. Our hearts gleefully jumped for joy as the community formally welcomed all the 10 first year novices into the community. It marks the end of their First Probation and signals the ushering in of the Second Probation which means a time of testing of our vocation to the Society of Jesus. Fr Francis Menezes, Fr Willie Sequeira and Fr Sunil Fernandes celebrated the Entrance Day Eucharist which was in the evening. “… and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” - Jeremiah 1:5

The Frontiersmen of the Heart of Christ

2011-06-23T10:07:00.002+05:30

“To proclaim God's love to all the nations” - Ten of our brothers committed themselves to serve in the vineyard of Christ on the 21^st of June when they professed their First Vows in the Main Chapel of Mount St. Joseph. Fr Francis Serrao, the Provincial, was the main celebrant for the Holy Mass. It was a day for us to thank the Lord for our brothers who are our pride and joy and beseech the Lord to bless them abundantly in their future mission as Jesuits. Presently, they are pursuing their studies in the common Juniorate in Trivandrum, Kerala.

RETREATS (July - December 2011)

2011-06-19T18:32:00.000+05:30

RETREATS - DHYANASHRAMA (Mount St Joseph)

01-09 July: God of Life, God of Love (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

12-20 July: Come and rest a while (Fr Simon Furtado)

22-30 July: Sitting at the Master’s feet (Fr Ivan Mendonca)

02-10 Aug: Listening to the Master (Fr John Baptist)

12-20 Aug: Lord, let me see your Face (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

22-30 Aug: To Know Him deeply, love Him intimately, follow Him closely (Fr Arockiasamy)

02-10 Sep: Behold, God’s Handmaid (Fr Tom Quadros)

12-20 Sep: Walking with the Lord (Fr Denis Coelho)

22-30 Sep: Relishing His Presence (Fr John D’Souza)

02-10 Oct: Searching for God’s will (Fr John Baptist)

12-20 Oct: Lord is the Joy of my heart (Fr Simon Furtado)

22-30 Oct: Savouring His presence (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

01-09 Nov: God of Salvation (Fr Simon Furtado)

12-20 Nov: Call to Intimacy (Tertian Jesuit)

22-30 Nov: God of Love & Mercy (Fr Hilario Fernandes)

02-10 Dec: Preparing for His coming (Fr John Baptist)

12-20 Dec: He comes, He comes, Ever comes (Fr Denis Coelho)

MONTH’S RETREATS

16 Mar - 15 Apr: 30-Day Retreat (Fr John Baptist)

01 - 30 July: 30-Day Retreat

01 - 30 Nov: 30-Day Retreat

For further details, contact:

The Director
Mount St Joseph (Dhyanashrama)
IIMB PO, Kalena Agrahara,
Bannerghatta Road
Bangalore - 560 076.
Tel: 080-26580441, 26585464
E-mail: dhyanashrama@gmail.com
Blog: www.msjnov.blogspot.com

First Vows on 21 June 2011 (Invitation)

2011-06-17T15:36:00.001+05:30

A warm welcome to the First Vows of our Ten Novices on 21 June 2011.

10 New Shoots in our “GARDEN OF LOVE”

2011-06-16T09:55:00.001+05:30

The mood in the Novitiate was full of the joys of spring when we welcomed ten new novices this year. They have begun their First Probation on the 16^th of June. Four of our novices have already begun their Novitiate in the Andhra Province. As they gradually merge into the life in the Novitiate, we pray that their life in the novitiate may be very fruitful and that they may experience the intimacy of our Lord Jesus Christ. As Robert J Frost says, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less travelled by, and that made all the difference.”

Entirely Yours O Lord - Final Vows of Fr Ivan Mendonca

2011-06-14T15:46:00.000+05:30

The final commitment of Fr Ivan Mendonca made June 12 as a special day in our calendars. It was an occasion for the province members to gather together in joining Fr Ivan in thanking the Lord. The venue was Ashirvad, Bangalore. The entire programme included a very meaningful Eucharistic celebration and a memorable felicitation programme. The first year Novices added sheen to the Eucharistic celebration by taking care of the choir. The sisters from the neighbourhood also pitched in to brighten the Liturgy. During the Homily, Fr Stanislaus D'Souza (Fr Stany) aptly spoke on the significance of the day in the life of Fr Ivan. With joy shining in his face, Fr Ivan fought his shyness to address the gathering and thanked the Lord and all who were instrumental in helping him reach the milestone. We join our voices with the province in wishing Fr Ivan a happy and fulfilling life ahead.
"I do not give lectures or a little charity when I give myself" - Walt Whitman

A Red Carpet Welcome to Fr Willie!

2011-06-13T10:58:00.002+05:30

A Red Carpet Welcome for our New Novice Director Fr Willie Sequeira: June 11 was a day of mixed feelings in the Novitiate as the long serving Fr Dion Vaz handed over the Novice Director’s Files to the incoming Fr Willie. But joy soon overtook the moods in the Novitiate as Fr Willie embarked on his new mission. A handing-over ceremony was held in the presence of the community in the evening. During the handing-over ceremony, Fr Willie expressed his gratitude to Fr Dion for the pains he has taken to accompany the Novices in the ways of our Lord and the Society. Fr Willie expressed his desire to continue the formation in the same lines of his predecessor. Our beloved Rector, Fr Francis Menezes, spoke on behalf of the community and the Novices sang their hearts out to welcome the New Novice Director.

Farewell Fr Dion; Welcome Fr Willie.....

2011-06-11T12:09:00.002+05:30

“If a blade of grass refuses to bend when it is green, it can never be made straight when it is dry.” It was indeed a very sad moment for us all when we said good bye to our dear Fr Master. After completing seven years of fruitful mission as the director of novices in Mount St Joseph, Fr Dion Vaz has been appointed as the mission Superior of Bijapur mission. It behoved us to give him a grand farewell, which was held on 11 June together with the senior community. On the same day, Fr Willie Sequeira was welcomed into the novitiate community as our new Novice Director. As we bid farewell to Fr Dion and welcome Fr Willie as our new Novice Director, we wish them all the best and pray that their future mission will be very fulfilling. Adieu Fr Dion and Welcome Fr Willie.

Courses at Prerana, Mount St Joseph

2011-06-02T15:46:00.005+05:30

12 June - 23 July: RENEWAL FOR PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS

11 Sep - 15 Oct: RENEWAL COURSE FOR SILVER JUBILARIANS

Oct 17 - 27: RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP

Nov 6 - 12: COURSE ON NLP (Only 16 seats)

Nov 13 - 22: IGNATIAN-GUIDED NLP RETREAT (Only 16 seats)

Dec 4 - 10: DISCERNMENT OF SPIRITS APPLIED TO PROVINCE/GENERAL CHAPTERS AND DECISION MAKING

********************************

Happy Birthday and God Bless You Fr Sunil

2011-06-01T11:12:00.001+05:30

Cheerful expressions burst out in Fr Sunil Fernandes' face on his birthday on June 1. It was a big day of celebration for all the Novices, who were all smiles all through the day. Fr Sunil celebrated the Mass with the Novices in the morning and thanked the Lord for the gift of His love which he had experienced through many persons and incidents. It seemed to us that all the phone lines to Mount got jammed with so many people trying to call Fr Sunil. Nevertheless, he found time to be with the Novices and watch the movie – My Name is Khan. Fr Dion conducted a very meaningful prayer service in the evening. As gratitude pours out of Fr Sunil’s heart today, we join him in thanking the Lord and ask Him to bless him abundantly.

The Apostles Head Out - Sunday Pastoral Ministry

2011-05-30T14:30:00.000+05:30

May 29 saw all the Novices sally out on their Sunday Pastoral Ministry. For the seniors, it was their last ministry of their Novitiate. It was time for the freshers into the Sunday Ministry to step into the shoes of their predecessors and learn from their experiences. This year, we are heading to New Shores. The advantage of a larger number (16 II Years) compared to the last year (12 II Years), has made us look for two new Parishes, namely Doresanipalya and Jigani. In our formation, the two days of active ministry in and around Mount St Joseph on weekends is of great importance. It enriches us spiritually and gradually makes us men for others. As the new apostles embark on their mission in the pastoral field, we wish them all success.

“We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey.” Stephen R. Covey

Witnessing the Labouring Christ in Pannur

2011-05-23T11:13:00.005+05:30

Witnessing the Labouring Christ in Pannur - Work Camp 2011: As our train to Raichur chugged out of the Majestic station well past the time for dusk on the special day, 25^th of April, excitement gripped us. The very next day we were in Raichur. We resided at the hostel in the premises of St Peter’s Parish, Pannur. The presence of the children in the hostel doubled our joy and it provided us ample opportunity to freely interact with them and learn about their lives. Our work for the next 25 days included shifting loads of sand and solid blocks for the yet to be built kindergarten in Pannur. We also gathered firewood for the hostel. In the evenings, we tried to get a glimpse into the lives of the ordinary folk by visiting them in their houses and also by organizing street plays and programmes in the neighbouring villages. Walking with us in this part of our formation were our dear Fr Sunil Fernandes, the Assistant Novice Director and Sch Pradeep Avil Crasta, the Camp Co-ordinator. The curtains came down on the work camp experience on the 21^st of May. We are grateful to the Jesuit community at Manvi, especially Fr Terence Farias, the Superior, Fr Maxim Rasquinha, Fr Eric Mathias, Fr Rohan D'Almeida and Fr Prem Kumar. The reward of a thing well done, is to have done it. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T15:39:00.001+05:30

"We are an Easter People; Alleluia is our Song"
May the Risen Lord bless you all
JESUS IS RISEN, ALLELUIA!
The story of Easter is the story of God's wonderful window of divine surprise.
~ Carl Knudsen

Holy Week Services in the Parish (21-24 April 2011)

2011-04-17T15:32:00.001+05:30

Maundy Thursday (21/04/2011)
5.00 pm : Mass of the Lord’s Supper in the Parish (Kannada)
7.00 pm : Mass of the Lord’s Supper in the Parish (English)
Good Friday (22/04/2011)
8.30 am : Stations of the Cross in the Parish (English)
3.00 pm : Stations of the Cross in the Parish (Kannada)
4.00 pm : Celebration of the Lord’s Passion (Kannada)
6.30 pm : Celebration of the Lord’s Passion (English)
Holy Saturday (23/04/2011)
8.30 am : Keeping Vigil with Mother Mary (The Seven Sorrows)
7.00 pm : Easter Vigil Service in the Parish (Kannada)
9.30 pm : Easter Vigil Service in the Parish (English)
Easter Sunday (24/04/2011)
7.00 am : Easter Mass in the Parish (English)
8.30 am : Easter Mass in the Parish (Kannada)

FOURTH ANNIVERSARY of our Blog...

2011-04-10T16:26:00.004+05:30

Going Strong, staying connected - Hip hip hurrah!!! It is the FOURTH ANNIVERSARY of our Blog. The blog of Mount St Joseph (www.msjnov.blogspot.com) has made a successful leap into its fifth year of connecting the world inside Mount St Joseph to the world outside. A brainchild of Fr Manoj Joseph D’Souza, it made its debut on 10 April 2007 when he was the Assistant Novice Director here in the Novitiate. Under the able hands of the dynamic Fr Sunil Cletus Fernandes, the current blog administrator, the blog is gaining fresh doses of moxie. At this juncture, we express our gratitude to the builders of the blog, Frs Manoj & Sunil and the novices who have worked hand in hand with the blog administrators and placed the first bricks in building the blog. We thank you for your support and encouragement in keeping our blog going and for giving value and meaning to our work.

“The most important hour is always the present; the most significant person is precisely the one who is sitting across from you right now; the most necessary work is always love” – Meister Eckhart

Celebrating Fellowship - On the Novitiate Picnic

2011-03-15T11:07:00.000+05:30

Nothing could suppress the boisterous spirits when we, the Novices, headed to Sangam (a picnic spot near Kanakapura Taluk, Bangalore) on March 8. The picnic was not only a time to relax and enjoy, but also an opportunity to build our community and fellowship. We had a jolly good time, relaxing in the cool waters of Talakaveri. The scenic beauty resplendent with nature’s choicest colours was a sight to admire. The shallow waters provided a wonderful occasion to enjoy water sports and also to take a light swim. We also shared our food with some unprivileged people around the place. The afternoon was spent in playing picnic games and cricket. As we headed home in the evening, in spite of the tiredness, our spirits were bolstered up. The picnic was a witness to fraternal love and fellowship which we built through the guidance of Fr Dion, our Novice Director and Fr Sunil, the Assistant Novice Director.

He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while” Mark 6:31

Novices' Day 2011

2011-03-12T09:36:00.000+05:30

With Gratitude and Hope in our Hearts! Novices Day 2011 was held on 6 March, in Mount St. Joseph Novitiate, which brought together for the last time in this academic year the Novices of six different religious houses namely- FSI sisters, Sisters of the Holy Spirit, Trinitarian brothers, Guanellian sisters, Franciscan sisters of Alverna Bhavan and the Jesuits. The day’s programme included a talk session by Fr Bitaju of the Trinity Ashram in the morning and a cultural programme in the afternoon.. He elaborated on the condition of the young generation based on the message of Pope Benedict XVI. The theme for the talk was “Planted and built up in Christ, firm in the faith”(Col 2:7). Six members of Jesus Youth were present to give a witness to their faith. After the sessions, we gathered around the Lord’s Table for the Eucharist. The afternoon saw an enthralling cultural programme by the novices. All through the fun and entertainment, they kept close to the theme of the day, “Dare to be different”, a clarion call which invites us to be creative and always new. The events of the day centered their focus on the modern youth, bringing out their joys, aspirations and struggles through skit, dance and songs. The photo session in the evening brought down the curtains on another fruitful academic year and a successful Novices' Day.

The Memory of Fr General in Frame

2011-03-07T14:07:00.001+05:30

An unforgettable event of Fr General’s visit for us in Mount St Joseph would be to stand for a group photograph with Fr Adolfo Nicholas. It is an event that will be etched permanently in our collective memories. On March 4, Fr General came for the first and the last time to the Novitiate and Dhyanashrama. In the lush green grass carpeted garden of Dhyanashrama, a group photo of the community with Fr General was shot. Fr General was very free and jovial. He joined his hands as he greeted the senior members of the community individually. The picture has become a treasured possession of all in the house which immortalized the memory of the visit of Fr General.

A Rare Meeting - Novices with Fr General

2011-03-05T14:02:00.000+05:30

Fr General Meets the Novices! The Novices were on cloud nine on March 4, when Fr General (Fr Adolfo Nicolas) came to the Novitiate in the evening to have tea with the Novices. There was a flurry of activity and excitement to set the stage ready for a very memorable meeting with him in the Aula. We arranged a traditional welcome to Fr General who was flanked by Fr James E Grummer and Fr Lisbert P D’Souza, the assistants ad providentiam. In his talk to the Novices he spoke on a wide range of issues and also shared his personal experiences. Stressing on the need for creativity, flexibility, depth, honesty and availability he encouraged us to be always men for others. He gave a thumbnail sketch of the ongoing work in the Curia and the situation of the Society in relation to peoples lives all around the globe. We had a nice time talking with him after the talk which was a unique experience as Fr General had specifically mentioned that he wanted to meet the novices without the presence of anyone in the hall. We really had a first hand experience of an ideal Jesuit. As the JCSA meet continued, we were privileged to listen to talks by Fr Grummer and Fr Gabriel Je, the Provincial of Korea. Many of the JCSA delegates also celebrated the morning Mass for the Novices .

“Asia has a lot to offer to the Church. Make sure you know Asia in depth.” - Fr General to the Novices.

Fr General Blesses the Cemetery

2011-03-03T13:57:00.000+05:30

In Prerana, we could hardly see Fr General. A lot of whispers and murmurs were doing the rounds. We were afforded a chance to see him when he came to bless the renovated cemetery which was upgraded recently with interlocks in its complete stretch. In the morning of March 2, Fr General joined the community and stood face to face the large replica of the crucifix over the memorial stone carved with the words, “Resurrecturis.” After a short prayer, he went around blessing the tombstones and sprinkling the Holy Water. The delegates of the JCSA meet joined the community during the blessing of the cemetery.

Fr General Adorns our Home

2011-03-01T13:52:00.000+05:30

The long awaited visit of Fr General filled us with joy as he arrived at Prerana on the 28 February. We were filled with uncontained joy at seeing the head of the Society - the successor of St Ignatius himself. Fr Adolfo Nicholas, who came here to take part in the JCSA meet (28 February to 5 March), was accompanied by Fr James E Grummer and Fr Lisbert D’Souza the Assistants ad Providentiam. All the Provincials of the South Asian Assistancy were in Prerana for the meet. Earlier the same day, the community met Fr General at the Holy Mass and the felicitation function at St Joseph’s Boys’ High School. A man of deep learning and simplicity, he inspired us not only by his words, but also by his typical Japanese bows and warm handshakes. His flair for relating with all and his open personality that reaches out to others endeared him to all, especially the Novices. Fr General’s visit filled us with new energy and motivated us to be “men on search.” As we thank Fr General for visiting us, we wish him good luck in his mission.

“The Society needs you to be men of depth, creativity and deep spirituality.” - Fr Adolfo Nicholas to the Jesuits of Karnataka Province.

Sixteen New Acolytes - Men in White!

2011-02-25T11:57:00.001+05:30

Raimented with Christ in our being! The Novitiate took on a brighter tint today as sixteen first year Novices dressed for the first time in their new cassocks. They were conferred their ministries of Lector and Acolyte by Fr Francis Serrao, the Provincial, during the morning Eucharist. After the Holy Mass, the community congratulated them. The senior Novices showed their love by giving handmade wishing cards prepared specially for the occasion. Today is very significant for the new acolytes as it marks the journey from the external to the internal. The chief architect of the day’s events was novice Dolwin Cutinho, the head-guide who will be completing his responsibilities today. As the new acolytes assume their new responsibilities, we congratulate them and pray for God’s blessings on them.

“I do not want merely to possess a faith; I want a faith that possesses me.” – Charles Kingsley

Br Mariasusai Nakshatram-Surrendered to the Lord’s Embrace

2011-02-22T13:17:00.000+05:30

"We believe that Jesus died and rose again; so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have died believing in Him.” (I Thessalonians 4:14) Br Mariasusai Nakshatram, a senior member of our Province entered into his eternal reward on 21 February after a protracted illness which he patiently bore with the Lord. Br Mariasusai was stationed in Ashirwad community where he received care and support. After the funeral Mass in Ashirwad, his remains were interred in the cemetery at Mount St Joseph. As Br Mariasusai enters into his Eternal reward, we pray that his soul may rest in peace.

“In a small proportion we just beauties see; And in short measures life may perfect be” - Ben Johnson

Fine Tuning to the Call of God (Vocation Camp)

2011-02-22T11:14:00.000+05:30

God calls each one of us in his own unique ways. The call to religious life is a unique call indeed. Hence, to make the young aware of God’s call, a vocation camp was organized in Mount St Joseph on February 20. The presence of about 55 exuberant youngsters from the neighbourhood parishes made this day a success. Their buoyancy and enthusiasm added life and freshness in our campus on this otherwise ordinary Sunday. Schs Pratap Chandru and Lumnesh Kumar managed the show during the morning sessions. The novices took over in conducting some games in the afternoon. Kudos to Fr Sunil Fernandes, the Assistant Novice Director who has been the main person responsible behind the work.

"That Your Kingdom may come and not mine, That your will may be done and not mine, Help me to say yes." Michel Quoist

Ashram Experiment: Christ-centred in an Indian Way

2011-02-20T11:32:00.002+05:30

In these times when speed, noise and intense activity is all the rage, the solitary and unobtrusive Ashram becomes a silent witness to the relevance of the way of life taught by the Indian spiritual masters. To taste this experience the first year Novices are sent to a week’s experience in an Ashram. This year the ‘Ashram Experiment’ was in Anjali Ashram, which is at the foot of Chamundi Hills in Mysore. The stay was between 12 and 18 February.

The activities in the Ashram are coined purely in Indian vocabulary - Seva, Upadesha, Satsang, pooja… The food is strictly vegetarian. Silence, solitude and close bonding with nature are the hallmark of Ashram. We were initiated into this life and were guided deeper into the spirituality by Fr Louis, Guruji of the Ashram and the staff of the Ashram. Tolerance, broad-vision, inclusiveness, spirit centredness and an open attitude to truth makes the Ashram a fountain for inter-religious dialogue.

"May the Creator God whose splendour we contemplate as radiant on earth, sky and heaven stimulate our intellect."

Entering into the Vision of Ecumenism

2011-01-18T10:24:00.000+05:30

In preparation for the Unity Octave, a short course for the Novices on Ecumenism was given by the Socius, Fr Sunil Fernandes on January 4 & 5. The course was incorporated into the regular class time-table of the Novitiate as an interactive seminar. The course shed light on the history of the Catholic Church, the giants of the Reformation and also tat he present steps taken towards unity as expressed in the recent documents and encyclicals from the Vatican. In the light of the knowledge gained, we tried to comprehend the tensions of the Reformation period and saw the silver lining around the dark clouds which a sign of new hope of dialogue, mutual understanding and unity among Christians.

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all” Ephesians 4:4-6

Inter-Novitiate Seminar on Discernment

2011-01-15T09:31:00.001+05:30

Fine tuning the heart to the voice of the Lord: “How would a grateful child respond to the selfless love of his/her dear mother?” Giving this down to earth example, Fr Frederick D’Silva endeavoured to bring the broad topic of Discernment to the understanding of the 53 novices of six congregations gathered for the Inter-Novitiate Seminar. The five-day course (10-14 January) packed with in-depth reflection and rib tickling humour was held in Alverna Bhavan Novitiate. The sessions were interesting and it fully involved the participants. Fr Freddie with his long-standing experience in the field of Spiritual Direction shared some of his own experiences and often sent the hall roaring with laughter. Cases that made us put on our thinking caps were given for analysis. During the sharing of the collective opinion of the groups, not a single point was left unexplored by Fr Freddie, thus giving more insight into the aspects of discernment.

“God’s ways are the ways that He himself walked and that we must now walk with Him.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Seeing the Active Presence of God within Creation!

2011-01-10T10:02:00.002+05:30

Fr Dion engaged the Novices in classes on Ecology on 5 January. The class was mainly focused to address the need of the hour i.e., to develop right relationship with the nature, very much in-line with the decrees of GC35. Through slide shows, many ways to develop eco-friendly culture was shown. As a practical application and integration of what was being learnt, the Novices spent their “Long Manual Work” in mulching the plants of their gardens "to appreciate more deeply our covenant with creation as central to right relationships with God and one another”

Mulching - It means placing beneath the soil, material, for example, decaying leaves, around a plant, to protect its base and its roots, to improve the quality of the soil or to stop weeds growing. Mulching conserves the moisture in the soil. Try it out in your gardens this Summer!

RETREATS (January - June 2011)

2011-01-05T18:26:00.000+05:30

RETREATS - DHYANASHRAMA (Mount St Joseph)

03-11 Jan: New Life Beginning (Fr Tom Quadros)

13-21 Jan: In Him we Live & Move & Have our Being (Fr John Baptist)

23-31 Jan: Searching for God’s Will (Fr Tom Quadros)

02-10 Feb: God is my Light and my Life (Fr Simon Furtado)

13-21 Feb: Walking with the Lord (Fr Denis Coelho)

24-04 Mar: Savouring His Presence (Fr Tom Quadros)

06-14 Mar: Call to Conversion (Fr Joseph D’Mello)

16-24 Mar: Road to Calvary (Fr. Simon Furtado)

27-04 Apr: God of Mercy, God of Compassion (Fr Tom Quadros)

06-14 Apr: Listening to Suffering Lord (Fr Francis Serrao)

17-24 Apr: Body Broken, Blood Shed (Fr William Sequeira)

26-04 May: ‘Walk to Emmaus’ (Fr Denis Coelho)

06-14 May: Walking with the Risen Lord (Fr Anthony Joseph)

16-24 May: Relishing His Presence (Fr Simon Furtado)

08-16 June: Walking with the Lord (Fr Simon Furtado)

22-30 June: Call to Intimacy (Fr John Baptist)

For further details, contact:
The Director
Mount St Joseph (Dhyanashrama)
IIMB PO, Kalena Agrahara,
Bannerghatta Road
Bangalore - 560 076.
Tel: 080-26580441, 26585464
E-mail: dhyanashrama@gmail.com
Blog: www.msjnov.blogspot.com

Prerana: Programmes 2011-2012

2011-01-02T10:01:00.002+05:30

Prerana (Ignatian Spirituality Centre)

Programmes 2011-2012

Dhyanashrama : Programmes 2011-2012

2011-01-02T09:45:00.006+05:30

Dhyanashrama (Ignatian Retreat Centre)
Programmes 2011-2012

Ring out the Old and Ring in the New (New Year 2011)

2011-01-01T19:17:00.002+05:30

It seems that 2010 was just whisked away by time. Ring out the Old and Ring in the New (New Year 2011): The arrival of the New Year spiced up the joy of Christmas season and brightened our hopes for the new experiences to come. We welcomed the year by gathering together with the congregation for the midnight Mass in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. Frs Francis Noronha, Sunil Fernandes, Dion Vaz and Francis Menezes led the celebration. The jubilant mood in the community the next day was very infectious. The arrival of guests, the warm wishes from the brethren, the community gatherings and the pleasant aroma of cakes added a unique flavour to this day which increased our gratitude to God and the love He has poured on us.

The Jesuit community (Mount St Joseph) wishes you a very happy, prosperous and joy-filled New Year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011

2011-01-01T05:21:00.001+05:30

The Jesuit community of Mount St Joseph wishes you a very happy, prosperous and joy-filled New Year.

Christmas - Love From Heaven Born In Us

2010-12-25T14:40:00.001+05:30

Dear Friends,

We, the Jesuit community at Mount St Joseph, wish you all a Merry Christmas. May the birth of our Saviour bring abundant joy and happiness in your life!

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

Gingery Success in the Gardens!

2010-12-08T16:32:00.000+05:30

It’s ginger bumper crop in Mount St Joseph Novitiate - The novices who had gingered up the activity in St Stanislaus garden by growing ginger, have finally tasted success. The ginger roots were planted at the fringes of the four plots of St Stanislaus garden in the month of June. A lot of sweat and toil went into the work which seems very sweet now. The novices themselves took delicate care of the plants after taking in advice and suggestions from many in the community. The total output has come to around 300 Kilos. We are grateful to the sisters of Holy Spirit Convent who provided us the ginger roots to begin with and also to everyone for their enthusiastic support.
"Discovery consists of seeing what everybody has seen and thinking what nobody has thought" - A. S. Gyorgy

"Alone with the Alone"

2010-10-31T17:12:00.000+05:30

Greetings from Mount St Joseph Novitiate, Bangalore. We, the Sixteen First Year Novices, are deeply joyful to inform you that we are beginning our Month’s Retreat on 01 November 2010 under the guidance of Fr Dion Vaz, our Novice Director. We humbly request you to pray for our inner journey as we walk with the Lord to be deeply rooted in His love and service.
Please do remember to pray for our Twelve Second Year Brothers as they are going for their Mission Experiment, an outward journey in faith. During this grace-filled time, we too assure you of our prayers for your Mission.

Seeking Your Prayers and Blessings,
Yours in Christ Jesus
First Year Novices

On We Go.....Pilgrimage to Anekal

2010-10-29T17:16:00.002+05:30

The morning of 29 October saw the first year Novices leave to the Anekal Mission on a pilgrimage prior to the Month’s Retreat. After alighting from the bus at Bannerghatta, we took the long road to Anekal on foot. The trees along the road and the cool weather helped very much. The pilgrimage was done in silence and reciting the Rosary personally. We reached Anekal after a long walk of over twenty kilometers which we covered in a little over than three hours.
We were warmly welcomed by Fr Anil D'Mello and the community members. The Eucharist for the novices was celebrated by Fr. Jerome D’Souza. After Lunch, we proceeded towards the Parish - St. Joseph’s Church. Fr. Benedict warmly received us and we prayed the Rosary together. We returned to Mount ST Joseph in the evening spiritually strengthened, renewed and enriched.

Intensive Journal - A Journey into Oneself

2010-10-27T17:36:00.000+05:30

The course on Intensive Journal helped us in our inward journey to integrate the Body, Heart, Mind and Spirit. Surely, the inner journey has enriched our lives!

The first year Novices who are gearing up for the Month’s Retreat were given a course on Intensive Journal from 25 to 27 of October by our Rector, Fr Francis Menezes. The course was adapted according to the needs of the novices as they are preparing for the Long Retreat. For three days there was silence in the Novitiate as the course required an atmosphere of silence and recollection. Despite the silence in the house the entire house was abuzz with activity, which brought a lot of liveliness and silent joy in the house.

Mother Mary – Our Lady of the Rosary

2010-10-07T13:18:00.002+05:30

Mother Mary is a perfect model for us to imitate here on earth. Thomas A Kempis writes, “Mary is the friend of poverty, the way of humility, the model of patience and perfect in all things.” Therefore we must fix the gaze of our soul constantly on her for our spiritual interests and imitation. For us, Mary’s children, the Rosary should be the most loving, prayerful turning, a most tender appeal to our mother, convinced that her help and support is an absolute necessity in our lives. The Church is ever presenting to us for our contemplation, study and our imitation, Mary our mother and model. If we wish to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, to imitate him, we must model ourselves on Mother Mary.

Feedback: An ongoing Process of Growth

2010-10-01T17:04:00.002+05:30

A life unreflected is not worth living. God speaks to us through events, persons and things. Feedback was the time when God spoke to us through our companions. We got a chance to be personally involved in the growth of each other. Two of our Brothers are happy to share their experience with us.

Joyal Sandeep: Feedback is a time to know more about my own life. It is a time to look at the lights and shadows i.e., positives and negatives of my life. It is a time to give and to receive an authentic feedback. It challenges us to work on our negatives and improve on our positives. It helps us to deepen our relationship with everyone and to be a person of discernment and consistency. This process is very important as it increases our self-awareness. I realized that I can become a better person and bring in the necessary changes in my life through the feedback session.

Calvin George: "An unreflected life is not worth living" said the great philosopher Socrates. Feedback is a process where we look into our lives from the point of view of others. It is an instrument from which we can look into our own past lives deeply and improve in our future life. By becoming aware of our strengths and weaknesses, we can be better persons and grow in our religious life. Truly, feedback is an ongoing process which leads to growth.

Given to God’s Service - Final Vows

2010-08-29T16:32:00.001+05:30

This Sunday was indeed special to the Karnataka Jesuit Province, when Frs Roshan Lobo and Manoj Joseph D’Souza knelt in front of our Lord to pronounce their final vows on 29 August 2010 in the chapel of St Joseph’s Boys' High School, Bangalore. The choir by the Novices and the presence of the Province family enhanced the joy and brotherhood during the Eucharist celebrated by Fr Francis Serrao, the Provincial. There were wishes galore during the felicitation programme which was in the auditorium of the school. The newly Professed Fathers shared their experiences and joy with all the invitees. Fr Dion Vaz raised the toast on the occasion. As Frs Manoj and Roshan thank the Lord for the gift of their vocation and ready themselves to the new phase as Jesuits, we wish them success and contentment in their future.

“By birth I am an Albanian, by citizenship an Indian; I am a Catholic sister. By my mission I belong to the whole world, but my heart belongs to Jesus alone.”- Bl. Teresa of Calcutta

Do Re Mi... Sing Along With Me – Singing Classes

2010-07-01T15:16:00.000+05:30

Starting from July 5 every Friday afternoon will see Mount St Joseph echo with the melodious voices of the Novices. Guiding the novices to take the right jump along the staves is none other than the maestro Fr Thomas Quadros (Fr Tom Q). The focus of these classes is to enable the Novices read and grasp the music notations. It will also help in picking up some basics in musical theory. To make the Novices' voices heard, exercises are selected from the beautiful collection of hymns and notations, “Cantate Domino.” With the help of the expert Fr Tom, we have set out sights on gaining mastery in music.

“Let us hear our voice in Him and His voice in us” St Augustine.

Enter into the Lord’s Courts! Entrance Day 2010

2010-06-30T11:25:00.000+05:30

We were glad to formally welcome sixteen new novices into the community of Mount St Joseph on their Entrance Day on June 30. During the Entrance Day Mass in the morning, the 16 freshers received a copy of the Constitutions of the Society of Jesus from the Novice Director Fr Dion Vaz. The Socius, Fr Sunil Fernandes, gave them a picture of Jesus to remind them forever their life commitment as they took their very first steps as Jesuits. Fr Francis Menezes, the Rector, in a very fitting homily spoke about the implications of living as Companions of Jesus. After the Holy Mass, the community gathered in the refectory to felicitate the new Novices and the seniors gave them handmade greeting cards. The hard fought basketball match in the evening and common recreation after the supper relaxed us and increased our joy.

“Home is where the heart is” – Pliny.

Rooted in Love & Service

2010-06-22T15:40:00.003+05:30

Twelve of our brothers strongly feel rooted in love and service to our Lord Jesus Christ. They came forward courageously to be and to go with Christ, looking on the world with His eyes, loving it with His heart and entering into its depth with His unlimited compassion. We had a two-fold celebration. First of all, twelve of our brothers (Ashwin D’Silva, Arvin Pais, Jaison D’Souza, Jason Marits, John Saldanha, Joyson Vaz, Martin Joseph, Paul Anand, Pradeep, Ruben D’souza, Ryan Rodrigues & Yesunand Karlekar) made their First Profession by placing themselves to be rooted in Christ’s love and to be the servants of His Kingdom. Secondly, we celebrated the feast of a young Saint of the Society of Jesus, St Aloysius Gonzaga - a man of great conviction who stood by the Spirit which led his faith into action. His motto: “The service of humanity is the service of God” is an inspiration for all of us.
The theme of the Eucharist was “Rooted in Love & Service.” Fr Francis Serrao, the Provincial of the Karnataka Province, presided over the Eucharist and received the Vows. Fr Dion, the Novice Director, inspired us with his moving message. Soon after the Eucharist, we had a short felicitation ceremony in the community refectory to greet the Vovents. During the Programme, the Annual bulletin of the Novitiate "Navataranga-2010" was released by Fr William Sequeira, our former Rector. The vovents feel grateful to Frs Francis Menezes (our Rector), William, Dion, Sunil & the Mount St Joseph community for their prayerful support and encouragement to commit ourselves entirely to the Lord. Above all, we thank the Lord and all of you for making this day a memorable one.

New Spring! Entry of First Years

2010-06-16T11:19:00.000+05:30

June 16 was a special day for the Novitiate. The future of the Society seemed brighter today with the arrival of 16 new Novices. The list consists of 2 Novices from our neighbouring Andhra Province and 14 for our province.

The names of the freshers are as follows: 1.Albert Vasanth 2.Calvin George Michael 3.Chethan Anil Pinto 4.Gladwin Fernandes 5.Godwin Sequeira 6.Jaison Lobo 7.Joyal Sandeep 8.Leston Baptist Lobo 9.Nithin Coelho 10.Praveen Kiran Martis 11.Rayan Monis 12.Sameer Francis 13.Sharun Roy D’Souza 14.Sudeep Pinto 15.Vincent Vijayakumar 16.Vinod Mathias Saldanha. We wish these generous followers of Christ all the best as they begin the first run with the Lord in the Novitiate.

Report of the Novices Day

2010-05-31T10:07:00.000+05:30

WILSON: When the sun smiled our Novices danced. A day of great joy and celebration as all the Novices came together as one family to celebrate the Novices day. It was a new and splendid idea to bring with an enriching talk given by Fr Jossy Lobo, who inspired us to be a prophet and mystic in today’s world. So the whole day was very colourful and filled with lots of fun and frolics.

ASHWIN: Joy filled my heart when I think about the Novices day. What I personally enriched is the community bond. It was a time of interaction, prayer, understanding, sharing, festivity & gratitude. I enjoyed this day very much beginning with the inspiring seminar by Fr Jossy. We thanked the Lord with hymns of praise and thanksgiving by sharing the Body & Blood of Christ. The plays by the Novices were like a golden glitter in my eyes.

JOHN: 'These are my members yet one body '(1 Cor 12, 26). This was the overall experience for me on the ‘Novices day’. Yes, though we are different parts, with different mission, we fit into one body of Christ. Fire in bones blazes constantly to partake in Christ mission. The manifestation of our mission is towards the vision of Christ, “Kingdom of God.” I enjoyed my day it was a wonderful and joyful occasion to be one in Christ.

Creative Fidelity-Earn and Live Experiment

2010-05-28T13:31:00.002+05:30

Joyson Sujay Vas: "Never avoid the struggles in life, face it, this is really God's greatest gift." Life of a religious is becoming challenging in this globalized world. It is really difficult to delay gratification, in order to embrace the values of the Gospel. I truly experienced this in my earn & live experiment. It was a golden oppurtunity given by the Society to analyse the struggles of the outside world & to realize the value of money. I worked as a kitchen steward in a resort, owned by 'Manipal Group' at Singasandra, Bangalore. This hard labour helped me to realize the value of money to earn my daily bread. I found great meaning in remaining faithful to God & to myself while working. When I failed to respond to God's love, the Spirit awakened me to walk on the right path. After this fruitful experience, I feel strengthened spiritually, emotionally & socially. I strongly feel that it is not easy for a religious to be faithful to God in today's materialistic world unless s/he is deeply rooted in Christ's love.

Ryan Savio Rodrigues: "To each according to need, from each according to capacity." I was sent on an 'Earn & Live' Experiment for two weeks. The greatest challenge I faced was to search for a job without revealing my identity. After a day's search I got a job as a helper to the painter at a garage. My employer was very generous & patient as I went about learning the job & helping him in his work. What kept me going was long hours of work that were combined with the intercessory prayers for all those who have entered into my life. I learnt a lot about myself. I managed to survive with bare minimum things & lived a simple life. In the end I could save a little money even though I had to feed myself. I realized two important things...... God is the Ultimate & everything else is temporary. I learnt tough lessons in humility & understood that only humility can foster compassion. I was assured that God is compassionate to those who humble themselves.