August 4, 2025:
The KPRT community came together in a spirit of joy and reverence to celebrate the feast day of our beloved
St. John Mary Vianney, the patron saint of all priests. The day began with a grace-filled Holy Eucharist,
presided over by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria. In his homily, he emphasized the importance of living with faith,
quoting “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7). He highlighted that priests are called to embody unwavering
faith, humble service, and pastoral charity, following the example of St. John Mary Vianney, who devoted his life to the
ministry of reconciliation and spiritual guidance.
The community gathered at 9:43 AM for an energetic and cheerful basketball match. Three teams competed: one consisting of Fathers and would-be deacons, another of first-year brothers, and a third of second- and third-year brothers. The match was filled with friendly competition, showcasing strong sportsmanship and team spirit. After an exciting game, the team of second- and third-year brothers emerged victorious as champions.
In the evening, the first-year brothers organized a vibrant cultural programme, featuring a prayer dance, dance performances, and a skit. The skit beautifully portrayed the life and mission of St. John Mary Vianney, capturing both the solemnity of his priestly vocation and the joy he radiated in his ministry. The event was thoughtfully coordinated and skillfully executed, reflecting the creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication of the first-year brothers.
The day concluded with a fellowship meal, where the entire community came together to express gratitude limited and appreciation for the fathers’ service and dedication. The delicious meal was a fitting end to a day that deepened our connection to God and to one another.
✍ -By Br. Rohan Tirkey, 2nd Year
July 17, 2025:
The KPRT community united in a spirit of joy and gratitude today to celebrate the birthday of our beloved
Rev. Fr. Suthan. The day began with festive decorations adorning the area outside Father’s room,
setting a warm and cheerful tone for the celebrations ahead.
Fathers from neighboring communities, staff members, and our own brothers gathered at the portico to extend their heartfelt wishes. The celebration began with a brief introduction and continued with a reverent procession to the chapel, accompanied by the singing of a hymn to the Holy Spirit. A solemn Holy Mass and prayer service were offered in thanksgiving for the life, vocation, and dedicated service of Fr. Suthan.
Following the spiritual observance, the community shared a joyful breakfast, strengthening bonds of fellowship. Later in the day, everyone reconvened to continue the celebration. A joyful rendition of the birthday song filled the air as Fr. Suthan cut the traditional birthday cake. The Rector, Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, then addressed the gathering, offering words of heartfelt appreciation, encouragement, and blessings.
The day’s festivities concluded with a grand celebratory lunch featuring a variety of delicious dishes, enjoyed together in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
It was a day filled with prayer, joy, and a deep sense of community as we gave thanks for the life, mission, and presence of Rev. Fr. Suthan among us.
✍ -By Br. Rohan Tirkey, 2nd Year
July 12, 2024:
The spirit of new beginnings and joyful fraternity filled the air at KPRT Seminary as the community celebrated Freshers’ Day 2024, welcoming twenty young men into the first-year formation programme. The day was prayerful, vibrant, and marked by the community's commitment to journey together as Pilgrims of Hope, the chosen theme for the year.
The day began with a serene morning prayer led by Bro. Francis, invoking God’s guidance for the year ahead. The prayers emphasized openness to formation and receptivity to God’s calling. Bro. Jikhariya Nayak served as the master of ceremonies, ensuring a smooth and graceful flow of the day’s proceedings.
The formal welcome was delivered by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, Rector of the seminary. He warmly received the new brothers into the community and also extended a heartfelt welcome to Rev. Fr. George CM, the newest addition to the formation team. Reflecting on the theme, Fr. Francis encouraged everyone to walk together in faith, mutual support, and joyful hope.
A solemn Holy Eucharistic Celebration followed, presided over by Fr. George CM, with Fr. Arockia Suthan, Fr. Preetam Vasuniya, and other priests concelebrating. In his homily, Fr. George reflected on the Gospel theme, “Jesus Sends His Disciples,” and called the new seminarians to deepen their vocational commitment and readiness for the mission Christ entrusts to them.
The afternoon brought a lively change of pace as a football match was held between the first-year brothers and the senior community. The friendly yet energetic game, witnessed by formators and staff, fostered team spirit and brotherhood. The senior brothers emerged victorious, but the entire match was a win for fraternity and shared joy.
As twilight settled, the community assembled in the auditorium for a cultural evening filled with color, tradition, and expression. The programme began with a graceful traditional welcome dance by senior brothers. Each fresher was honoured with a garland and a sapling — symbols of welcome, growth, and rootedness. The new brothers then introduced themselves and shared talents through songs, dances, poems, and skits, reflecting their backgrounds and aspirations.
The chief guest for the evening, Fr. Preetam Vasuniya, addressed the gathering with words of wisdom and encouragement. He spoke of the beauty of seminary life — its rhythms of prayer, study, and service — and urged the brothers to persevere faithfully through the formation journey.
The celebration concluded at 9:00 p.m. with a fellowship dinner in the refectory. The shared meal offered a relaxed space for informal interaction and joyful bonding. The atmosphere was warm, familial, and filled with gratitude for new beginnings and shared dreams.
Freshers’ Day 2024 ended on a high note — with smiles, songs, and a renewed sense of purpose — setting a vibrant and hope-filled tone for the academic year ahead.
✍ -By Bro. Prem Tirkey, Archdiocese of Raipur, III Year.
“If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” — Romans 14:8
July 9, 2025:
On the evening of Wednesday, 9th July 2025, the KPRT Ashta Seminary Chapel was wrapped in silence, sacredness, and solidarity, as family, friends, Fathers, brothers, and religious sisters gathered in large numbers for the 30th Day Memorial Holy Mass in loving remembrance of Mr. Akkanath Devassy Augustine, the beloved father of Fr. Antony Akkanath.
The Holy Eucharist was solemnly presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. A.A.S. Durairaj, Archbishop of Bhopal, with many priests concelebrating the Mass. Their united presence was a powerful sign of support and prayer for Fr. Antony and his grieving family. The community joined hands in faith, offering Mr. Augustine back to God, whom he served so generously during his earthly life.
Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria offered a touching introduction, recounting Mr. Augustine’s remarkable journey as a hardworking and enterprising man. He was admired for his courage to build a business through resilience and for his generous heart — one that reached out to feed the hungry, help the needy, and uplift the Church. His ultimate offering to God’s vineyard was his own son, whom he joyfully gave to the priesthood.
The Archbishop’s homily brought deep comfort. He shared his personal encounters with Mr. Augustine, recalling his warm hospitality, joyful nature, and unwavering faith. His Grace reminded the congregation that even in sorrow, our faith leads us to hope — a hope rooted in the promise of resurrection and eternal life.
The intercessory prayers were led with reverence by the seminary brothers — Bros. Kapildev, M. Bhaskar, Kishore, Tamilarasan, and Jikhariya — lifting heartfelt intentions for Mr. Augustine and for all the faithful departed. Their voices echoed the love and unity of the seminary family.
After Holy Communion, Fr. Antony Akkanath rose to offer a moving thanksgiving speech. He recalled precious moments with his late father, thanking God for the gift of his life. His words, filled with emotion, expressed deep gratitude to His Grace, the concelebrants, the seminary family, and all well-wishers who walked beside him in this valley of sorrow. His tribute was a testament to love, memory, and faith that endures.
The celebration concluded with the Office for the Dead, prayerfully led by the Archbishop and the priests. The Seminary Choir, guided by Rev. Fathers Melvin and Saiju, chanted the psalms with deep devotion. The entire chapel was enveloped in a sacred stillness, as every heart lifted a silent prayer for the repose of Mr. Augustine’s soul.
At the end of the liturgy, a floral tribute was offered before Mr. Augustine’s photograph. Each flower, gently laid down, spoke of love, honour, and remembrance beyond words. It was a gesture that united everyone present in shared memory and quiet prayer.
After the Mass, the community gathered for a fellowship meal, where tears and smiles were shared over food and faith. This Month’s Mind Holy Mass became a sacred space — one where grief was embraced by grace, and remembrance gave way to renewal in Christ’s love.
✍ -By Bro. M. Kishore Babu Gwalior Diocese, III Year
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” — Proverbs 1:5
July 8, 2025:
On the morning of Tuesday, 8th July 2025, the KPRT Ashta Seminary radiated with enthusiasm and spiritual fervor as the community gathered to inaugurate the Academic Year 2024–2025. The sacred halls echoed with hope and purpose, as seminarians, priests, and esteemed guests united in a celebration of learning, faith, and mission.
The ceremony commenced at the academic block, where Rev. Fr. Antony Akkanath, Director of Studies, delivered an inspiring address. With wisdom and conviction, he urged the brothers to pursue academic excellence with diligence, cultivating a deep and sound knowledge to serve God’s people. His words set a tone of commitment and aspiration for the year ahead.
The community then proceeded in a prayerful procession to the chapel for the Holy Eucharist, solemnly presided over by Most Rev. Joseph Thykattil, Bishop of the Diocese of Gwalior. In his homily, His Excellency exhorted the seminarians to keep their eyes fixed on their ultimate calling, grounding their studies and lives in faith and service. The Eucharistic celebration was a profound moment of unity, as the community offered the new academic year to God’s guidance.
Following the Mass, the formal inauguration program unfolded in the auditorium, skillfully compered by Bros. Tamilarasan and Jikhariya. The event began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, a symbolic gesture of enlightenment, led by the chief guest, Bishop Joseph Thykattil, alongside other revered fathers. This act illuminated the gathering with hope and purpose.
Rev. Fr. Suthan extended a heartfelt welcome to the chief guest, visiting dignitaries, and the seminary family, fostering a spirit of warmth and togetherness. Rev. Fr. Antony Akkanath then presented a comprehensive academic plan for the year, outlining a vision that blended intellectual rigor with spiritual growth. Bishop Joseph Thykattil delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the seminary’s distinctive ARA (Action–Reflection–Action) model. He highlighted how the village immersion experience shapes seminarians into compassionate and mission-driven servants of God.
The pinnacle of the event was the Lectio Brevis, delivered by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria on the theme “Evangelization in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” His address offered profound insights, encouraging the community to embrace technological advancements as tools to enrich the Church’s mission while remaining rooted in the timeless truths of the Gospel.
The program concluded with a moving vote of thanks by Rev. Fr. Preetam Vasuniya, who expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the day’s success. The singing of the Seminary Anthem filled the auditorium with pride and unity, marking the close of an inspiring and grace-filled inauguration.
The day was a sacred beginning, where hearts and minds were united in a shared commitment to learning, faith, and service. The Academic Year 2024–2025 was set in motion with a renewed vision to grow in wisdom and walk humbly with God.
✍ -By Bro. Masihdas Kujur, Ambikapur Diocese, III Year
July 7, 2025:
The celebration began with a warm and cordial welcome to Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Thykkattil, the Bishop of Gwalior, who presided over the ceremony. The KPRT community gathered in the serene evening at the residence portico to receive the bishop with words of greeting and floral bouquets. From there, the community processed to the main chapel for the Eucharistic Celebration and the conferral of ministries.
The Holy Eucharist was solemnly celebrated by Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Thykkattil, joined by staff members and neighbouring priests as co-celebrants. During his homily, the bishop emphasized the sacred responsibilities attached to the ministries of Lector and Acolyte. He encouraged the brothers to serve with faith, dedication, and a deep sense of reverence for the Word and the Eucharist. He reminded the Lectors of their role in preparing the faithful for the Word of God, especially during the Sunday celebrations. He also called upon the Acolytes to cherish their ministry in close connection with the altar and the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Following the homily, the formal rite of conferral was held. The designated brothers received their ministries in a spirit of prayer and gratitude. The ceremony concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving, lifting hearts to God for the abundant blessings received.
The joyous occasion was further celebrated with a festive meal shared among the KPRT community and guests.
✍ -Baskar M, Archdiocese of Bhopal
< July 1, 2025:
Today marked a momentous occasion at KPRT Ashta, Madhya Pradesh, as our community was blessed to inaugurate the new formative year with a solemn and spirit-filled Holy Eucharistic Celebration. The liturgy was graciously presided over by His Grace A.A.A. Sebastian Durairaj, Archbishop of Bhopal, and concelebrated by our esteemed Rector, Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, Director of Studies, Rev. Fr. Antony Akkanath, and other members of the faculty.
The ceremony was a profound expression of faith and unity, filled with reverence, joy, and spiritual depth. A key moment of the celebration was the blessing of cassocks for the first-year students — a sacred rite conducted with dignity and devotion. The Church, through this rite, prays that as these young men put on the cassock, they may also put on Christ. The program was skillfully compered by Brother Kishor Babu. His Grace expressed visible joy at the presence of 20 newcomers, reflecting on their fresh commitment to vocation.
The community also welcomed Rev. Fr. George C.M. with warmth and gratitude as he joins KPRT as the new Spiritual Director. In his homily, the Archbishop delivered a powerful message on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” calling the community to remain steadfast in love, resilient through trials, and deeply anchored in hope in God. His Grace’s words provided clear direction and spiritual encouragement for the new academic year.
The celebration concluded with a community photo session, capturing the joy, fraternity, and hope that filled the day. This was followed by a shared meal—a time of fellowship that further strengthened the bond among the members of the community.
In every way, today’s celebration was deeply meaningful and spiritually enriching. The KPRT community expresses heartfelt gratitude to His Grace Archbishop Durairaj and the concelebrants for their pastoral presence, inspiring words, and continued guidance as we begin this new journey of formation and faith.
✍ -Bro. Jikhariya Nayak IMS, II Year
March 11, 2025:
The KPRT family gathered in great joy to celebrate the birthdays of our esteemed spiritual directors, Fr. Preetam Vasuniya and Fr. Jonedius Toppo. Though Fr. Preetam’s birthday falls on March 13, the community came together on this special day to honor both fathers with deep gratitude and heartfelt happiness.
The day began at 6:30 AM at the Marian Grotto, where invited guests, fathers, and brothers assembled in prayer. Fr. Jonedius, the main celebrant, offered incense to Mother Mary, entrusting the day’s celebrations into her loving care. A beautiful tradition followed—the ceremonial washing of the hands of the birthday celebrants, symbolizing respect and gratitude. Bros. Francis Meda and Amit Bhuriya then shared inspiring biographies of both fathers, inviting all to reflect on their remarkable lives of service.
The community then processed to the church for the Holy Eucharist, the highest form of thanksgiving. Presided over by Fr. Jonedius, the Mass featured a deeply moving homily by Fr. Preetam, who spoke on God’s love and the transformative power of sacrifice. His words reminded all that true peace is found only in Christ, leaving a profound impact on the congregation.
At 1:00 PM, the joyful noon celebration unfolded in the refectory with a lively cake-cutting ceremony. Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, Rector, and Fr. Antony Akkanath, Dean of Studies, offered touching words of appreciation, praising the birthday celebrants for their invaluable contributions to the community. The KPRT family lifted their voices in a wishing song as the celebrants cut the cake amid cheers and blessings, while their spiritual sons offered thoughtful gifts as tokens of love and gratitude.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1). The celebration concluded with a festive meal, where laughter, conversation, and joyful fellowship deepened the spirit of unity. It was truly a day of thanksgiving, love, and spiritual renewal, reminding us of the beauty of faith, fraternity, and God’s abundant blessings.
As we give thanks for the lives and ministries of Fr. Preetam Vasuniya and Fr. Jonedius Toppo, we pray that God continues to bless them with health, wisdom, and many more years of fruitful service.
✍ -By Bro. Prabeesh Sebastian, Archdiocese of Kingston
February 27, 2025:
On February 27, 2025, the KPRT community joyfully celebrated Rector's Day, commemorating the birthday of our esteemed Father Rector. The day was filled with love, faith, and gratitude, honoring the guiding presence of Father Rector, who has touched our lives with wisdom and care.
The day began with the uplifting energy of a special Thursday Morning Prayer, followed by a peaceful meditation led by Brother Manish and his group. A brief yet heartwarming birthday greeting was shared with Father Rector during breakfast at 7:30 a.m., marking the start of the celebrations. The grand breakfast was filled with joy and togetherness.
At 10:30 a.m., the community gathered in front of the Portico for the Holy Eucharistic celebration. Brother Tinku Kumar gave a brief biography of Father Rector, the 'birthday boy,' highlighting his inspiring journey. The Eucharistic procession, led by the main celebrant Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, along with con-celebrants, nearby community sisters, and all the brothers, proceeded towards the chapel.
Rev. Father Peetam Vasuniya opened the Holy Mass with personal reflections on his experiences with Father Rector, underscoring his impactful presence. The Thanksgiving Mass, offered by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, was a special tribute to the KPRT community. During his homily, Father Scaria emphasized the importance of holiness, using the metaphor that cutting off a body part is easier than ridding oneself of sin. He urged everyone to flee from sin as they would from a venomous snake.
Following the mass, the KPRT community gathered for a memorable photo session, capturing the joy of the day. At noon, we moved to the auditorium for a vibrant cultural program, which began with a welcome speech by Brother Baskar, acknowledging the presence of distinguished guests and the entire community. A series of performances by the brothers entertained the audience, showcasing talent and camaraderie. During the program, Rev. Fr. Antony Akkanath praised the qualities and inspiring leadership of Father Rector, recognizing him as a source of motivation for everyone.
Father Rector shared his heartfelt message with the community, expressing deep gratitude to all who attended and contributed to the day’s success. The Rector’s Day celebration concluded with a sumptuous meal at 2:00 p.m.
In the evening, the KPRT community hosted a special KPL Friendly Cricket Match between the staff of Pushpa School and the brothers of KPRT, Ashta. The cricket match, sponsored by Fr. Melvin, Principal of Pushpa Higher Secondary School, added excitement to the day. With the ground beautifully prepared for the event, a large audience gathered to witness the match.
The KPRT team won the toss and opted to bat first, posting a challenging target of 130 runs in 12 overs. The Pushpa School team, despite a slow start and early wicket losses, fought hard to chase down the target. However, the KPRT bowling attack was relentless, and the team successfully defended their score, lifting the KPL Cup. The KPL Trophy was presented to the winning team by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, while the runner-up team received sweet treats as a token of appreciation.
Both teams exchanged congratulations, and the day ended on a high note with snacks and a delightful dinner, leaving the community with joyful memories of a day well-spent.
Rector's Day 2025 will be remembered as a celebration of unity, joy, and the profound influence of Father Rector's leadership on our lives.
✍ -By Bro. Parsingh Damor III Year
January 26, 2025:
Republic Day 2025 was a momentous occasion for the entire KPRT community, marked by a spirit of unity, reverence, and reflection. The second-year brothers, with dedication and enthusiasm, meticulously prepared for the event, ensuring every detail was in place a day before the celebrations began.
The day unfolded with a solemn and sacred Holy Mass, led by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, the esteemed Rector of the KPRT family. His profound homily, centered on the theme of Biblical Sunday, resonated deeply with the congregation, urging us to align our spiritual values with our civic duties. Together, we prayed for our beloved nation, its leaders, and paid homage to the courageous freedom fighters whose ultimate sacrifices secured India's independence and paved the way for a just society.
Following the Holy Mass, a sense of pride filled the air as we marched in a disciplined parade, heralding the arrival of our distinguished chief guest, Most Rev. Father Preetam Vasuniya. He was warmly welcomed with a traditional garland and bouquet, a gesture symbolizing our respect and gratitude. The flag-hoisting ceremony that followed was a powerful and emotional moment, as the tricolor soared high, reflecting our nation's steadfast commitment to sovereignty, democracy, and the noble ideals enshrined in our Constitution.
In his keynote address, Father Preetam Vasuniya delivered a stirring and thought-provoking speech. He passionately called upon us to stand firm against injustice and corruption, urging each of us to become the voice for the marginalized and the oppressed. His words echoed a clarion call for action—to leave behind our comfort zones and work tirelessly toward building a more equitable and just society. His message was a poignant reminder of our role as stewards of justice, advocating for the dignity and rights of all.
The second-year brothers further ignited the spirit of patriotism with a soul-stirring patriotic song that stirred the hearts of everyone present. Their performance, a tribute to the power of music, evoked deep feelings of love for our motherland and the unbreakable bond of national unity and solidarity.
Adding to the significance of the day, Brother Manish Baskey took the stage with a speech that left a lasting impact. His eloquent words on the theme "A Journey of Democracy" resonated with us all. He traced India's remarkable progress since gaining independence, paying tribute to the freedom fighters and visionary leaders who shaped the nation's destiny. Brother Manish emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of justice, equality, and liberty—the cornerstones of our Constitution—and inspired us to continue walking on the path of progress with a sense of responsibility and purpose.
The Republic Day celebrations culminated in a joyous photo session with our honorable chief guest, staff fathers, and brothers. As we gathered for this symbolic moment, we reflected on the significance of Republic Day and the profound responsibility we bear as citizens of this great nation. The day’s events were a testament to the enduring values of democracy, justice, and equality, and a reminder that it is our collective duty to safeguard these ideals for future generations.
✍ -By Bro. Br. Vishal Sulya I Year
January 25, 2025:
On the 25th of January, 2025, the brothers from the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana had the distinct privilege of celebrating the harvest festivals of Pongal and Makar Sankranti at Khrist Premalaya Regional Theologate. The day began with a solemn Morning Prayer, where we gathered in gratitude to thank the Lord for His abundant providence and blessings in our lives.
Following the prayer, the community gathered in front of our residence for the traditional Pongal celebration and to warmly welcome the chief guest for the day, Rev. Fr. Edward Francis, a priest from the Archdiocese of Bhopal. We were truly honored by the presence of His Excellency, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Madathikunnel, who graced the occasion with his blessings.
The celebration continued with a Holy Mass, beginning with a dignified procession from our residence to the main chapel. During the Mass, we expressed our heartfelt thanks to God for His constant guidance and blessings. The homily, centered on the conversion of St. Paul, was an inspiring reflection on the transformative power of Christ. It urged us to reflect on both the pre-conversion and post-conversion aspects of St. Paul’s life, serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing call to follow Christ in our own lives.
The festive spirit extended into the afternoon as the brothers dedicated themselves to preparing a sumptuous meal for lunch. I would like to sincerely acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all those who contributed to the preparation of the meal and the overall organization of the event. Their efforts ensured that the day was a resounding success.
In the presence of His Excellency Bishop Augustine, Rev. Fr. Rector, the esteemed staff members, and all the brothers, a brief program was conducted. Bro. Tamilarasan, as the Master of Ceremonies, welcomed the dignitaries and all participants with warmth and respect.
We were also fortunate to have the neighboring community of Fathers and Sisters join us for the meal and celebration, further enriching the joy and spirit of fellowship. A video presentation highlighting the significance of these festivals was shared, followed by a grand meal. As one united family, we enjoyed the meal in an atmosphere of joy, fellowship, and mutual gratitude, cherishing the efforts and support of everyone involved. Ultimately, this celebration served as a poignant reminder of God’s continuous presence and His abundant gifts in our lives.
✍ -By Bro. Arockiadas IVD III Year
January 17, 2025:
On January 17th and 18th, KPRT Seminary hosted a joyous and spiritually uplifting Silver Jubilee celebration, honoring the priests of the 2000 batch who have dedicated 25 years to their sacred vocation. Of the 22 jubilarians, twelve were able to attend, while others were unable to join due to various responsibilities.
The KPRT family warmly received the jubilarians in front of the seminary portico, marking the commencement of the festivities with a traditional welcoming ceremony. Adorned with garlands and tilak, the priests were honored in accordance with the rich cultural traditions of KPRT.
The Silver Jubilee celebrated the unwavering commitment of Fr. Iruduyaraj, Fr. David Elias, Fr. Gnanapragasam, Fr. Joby Kalarickal, Fr. Joseph Thomas, Fr. Paul Correa, Fr. Pradeep Tigga, Fr. Sabu MJ, Fr. Sabu Niarolikal, Fr. Siby Poovathinkal, Fr. Somy, and Fr. Cyprian Kujur.
The event formally commenced on the evening of January 17th, with Bro. Tamilarasan serving as the master of ceremonies. The jubilarians were introduced and welcomed back to their alma mater with floral bouquets, followed by a melodious welcome song performed by the KPRT Brothers’ Choir Committee.
Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, the Rector of KPRT, extended his heartfelt greetings, setting the tone for an evening of reminiscence and wisdom. The jubilarians shared profound reflections on their priestly journeys, recounting the joys and challenges of their vocation. Their words deeply resonated with the brothers, offering invaluable lessons on faith, perseverance, and service.
< Fr. Cyprian Kujur from the Diocese of Gumla captivated the audience with his missionary experiences, infused with humor and inspiration. Similarly, Fr. Paul Correa from the Diocese of Lucknow emphasized the importance of unwavering obedience to ecclesiastical appointments, urging seminarians to trust in divine providence. The first day concluded with a soul-stirring Marian hymn.
On the morning of January 18th, the entire KPRT community gathered at the main entrance to extend another warm welcome to the jubilarians. The Jubilee Mass, presided over by Fr. David Elias from the Diocese of Muzaffarpur, featured an enlightening homily by Fr. Cyprian Kujur, reflecting on Christ’s words: “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Following the Mass, Fr. Somy from the Diocese of Jabalpur delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of the KPRT family. A group photo session captured the joyous occasion.
The celebrations continued with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, accompanied by the Deep Shikha song, symbolizing divine enlightenment. The jubilarians resumed sharing their experiences, offering insights into the trials and triumphs of their 25-year journey. Their interaction with the KPRT brothers was deeply enriching, as they addressed thought-provoking questions on the mission of the Catholic priesthood in India’s diverse socio-cultural landscape.
The jubilarians urged young seminarians to remain steadfast in their divine calling, resisting materialistic distractions. They emphasized the need to give to God what belongs to Him and to Caesar what is due, stressing that true evangelization is achieved through personal witness rather than institutionalized service. Their guidance left an indelible impression on the seminarians, inspiring them to embrace their calling with greater zeal.
The celebrations culminated in a grand luncheon, where the jubilarians cut a commemorative cake as the gathering sang in their honor. The event concluded on a warm and joyful note, leaving behind cherished memories and renewed spiritual fervor among all participants.
✍ -By Bro. Tinku Kumar Jooseph, Diocese of Gwalior, 1st Year Theology
January 17, 2025:
Christian leadership is a vocation to imitate Christ. This call demands our readiness to imitate Christ and radiate the rays of love, joy and hope to whole creation. This indicates that Christ is near us, Christ is with us and Christ is in us.
The Khrist Premalaya Theologate was very fortunate and privileged to have been visited by His Excellency Mar Raphael Thattil, the Major Archbishop of Syro-Malabar Church, and the chief shepherd of about 4.53 million faithful of Syro-Malabar Church all over the world, on January 17, 2025. His Excellency was accompanied by Rev. Fr. Sebastian Pullat MST, Regional Director of MST, Ujjain. We were gladdened at the arrival of His Excellency Mar Thattil and his team. We, headed by Rev. Fr. Francis Scaria, the Rector, rendered a warm welcome to the Supremo of Syro-Malabar Church with a lovely melody echoed by the seminarians and a solemn welcoming words spelled by Rev. Fr. Antony Akkanath, the Director of Studies, KPIT.
In the fast advancing world of today where power and position blindfold human hearts and minds, only some individuals become a beacon of humility, simplicity and serenity despite being bestowed with great power and authority. Mar Thattil manifests all these qualities and stands out as an ideal model for Christian leadership. His smile, charm, words of wisdom, simplicity and serene nature spoke volumes of his inner joy, and created a long-lasting impact in all of us. In his address he exhorted us to be ‘HUMAN’ in every sense which in his own words would mean – having Happy attitude towards life, cultivating the ability to Understand everyone around, growing in Maturity, readiness to utilize all Abilities for good, and exercising Nobility. He advised that cultivating these qualities makes us effective in our pastoral life. He further emphasized the importance of purity and love for God’s word and His mission in priestly life.
His sharing enriched our spirit and ignited a spark of renewal of our commitment in our journey towards priesthood. At the end we treasured this memory by capturing a group photo with this great personality and sought the blessings of the Almighty and His unending accompaniment in our faith journey.
✍ -By Bro. Tamilrasan Pauldhas, Archdiocese of Bhopal, II Year