Veez Global Illustrated English Weekly e-Magazine. Published from Chicago, USA.

62nd death anniversary ofFr RFC Mascarenhas, the Founder ofBethany

Christmas Get together at JeevandharaTrust,Kulshekar

Mangaluru, Dec 23: Jeevandhara Social Service Trust® Kulshekar, Mangalore organized Christmas get together programme at Sacred Hearts HighSchoolhall, Kulshekar, Mangalore on 23rd December 2022 at 11.00am. The programme began with a short prayer service along with prayer dance conducted by

Sahodaya Social Service Centre, Bendur Mangalore. Theprogramme was inaugurated by lighting the Diya by the President Rev Sr Cicilia Mendonca the Provincial Superior andPresident ofJeevandharaSocial

Service Trust. Students from Sacred Hearts Primary School, Kulshekar dancedtotheCarolsong.Christmas tableauwasenactedbythestudents at Sacred Hearts High School, Kulshekar.

Sr Cicilia Mendonca BS in her Christmasmessage spoke aboutthe birthofJesuswhobrought lightand salvation to the humankind. She applauded social work personnel for reaching out to the poor and

marginalized through social work activities. She expressed the joy of Christmas by carving the cake. On the occasion of 62nd death

anniversary of Fr RFC Mascarenhas, the Founder of Bethany Congregation special prayers were offered for the departed soul. The Inauguration of Silver Jubilee of Jeevandhara Social Service Trust was done symbolically by pouring water tothesapling. Thestaffalong with Tailoring students of Jeevandhara Centre, Sahodaya Centre and Shubadha Centre, Suralpady echoed Christmas carols onthe occasion. Sr Anna Maria BS the Secretary of Jeevandhara trust welcomed the guests as well as the participants. MsVinutha,thestaffofJeevandhara thanked all for their presence and participation. Sr Ida Janet BS, the Director of Jeeevandhara Centre, Kulshekar compeered the day’s programme. Christmas Papa cheered the participants with Christmascarols, dance,andsweets.

Few of the spot games were conducted by Sr Herita BS from Shubadha Centre, Suralpady along withMrsBharahtifromJeevandhara Trust. The winners were awarded prizes.

Sr Leena DCosta along with her Sahodaya staff, Sr Herita, and the members ofShubadha,Sr IdaJanet, the Director of Jeevandhara Centre, few of the SHG women, the staffof Sanjeevini and the Headmistresses Sacred Hearts Primary and High School along with few of the staff were part ofthecelebration. The Christmas meal was served at the end of the programme. Sr Sunitha Dsouza, the warden of InfantMaryHostel prayed forgrace before meals. The programme was concluded at1.00pm.

Report by; SrAnnaMaria BS Secretary, Jeevandhara Social Service Trust, Kulshekar

Christmas 2022

TheChristmas Seasonbeginsonthe 24th of December at sunset and ends on the Sunday celebrating the Baptism of the Lord. However, for measacoordinator of3L(least,last, lost) students andtheir families,itis extended to 24x7 of the calendar year. Because the message of Christmas is loving, caring, and sharing. Hence, throughout the year, we Friends of 3L reach out to 3L for their educational and other basic needs to make their life meaningful, joyful, hopeful, and dignified.

For me:

The hut with asbestos or tin sheets of3Lis theCrib. The youngest 3L represent Baby Jesus. Their parents are the replica of Mother Mary andSt.Joseph. The donors are the angels who bring theGood News. Thewell-wishers who pray forthem take therole oftheshepherds. Theordinary lampintheirhutsisthe Christmas Star.

The tree in the vicinity of their dwelling place is the natural Christmas Tree. The open sky with the moon, planets, stars, and other terrestrial bodies are the Christmas decorations.

Cattle, dogs, cats, goats, pigs roam around their huts and are members oftheStable.

The songs which 3L sing while beating the empty tins become Christmas Carols.

3L dance in their own style Christmas Ballet. The pictures which they draw in mud areChristmas Cards. The provision provided becomes theChristmas Banquet. Thepeople ofgood willprovide the Christmas hampers. Theextraordinarily generouspeople come asMagiwith gifts.

I as a coordinator, take the role of the Christmas Father to deliver Christmas hampersandnewclothes astheChristmas Gift.

3Ldonottakepart inanyChristmas

competition. They live a life of cooperation and coordination.

Where there is loving, caring, sharing, and praying done for 3L, thereCHRISTMASbecomes areality eachday. Iamataremote parishofHadinbal, 15 kms away from Honnavar, Karnataka alongtheHonnavar -Jog FallsroadfortheChristmasministry. Thisplaceisfilledwithtrees,forests, hills, valleys, rivers, streams, and wild animals. Pure and fresh air totally free from pollution. The entire area is a paradise with peace and serenity. Simple Konknni speaking Catholics, Kannada speaking Hindus, and Navayati Konknni speaking Muslims in unity andharmony asONEcommunity!!!

On behalf of 3L and their poor families I wish you and your family

members apeaceful, joy, and grace filled CHRISTMAS. Jesus the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity who was with His Father and Holy Spirit and was sent to redeem us from the bondage of SIN may grant you and your family members Hislove,peace,grace,and mercy. Withloving regards,

Pratap Naik, SJ 25th December 2022

Shashi Kumar, City Police Commissioner

said “Christianityapeace-lovingreligion"

Mr N Shashi Kumar, the Police Commissioner of Mangaluru city, addressing the honourable guests ofBandhutva Christmas Celebration heldintheevening ofDecember 27, 2022, at Father Muller Convention Centre, Kankanady Mangaluru, extolled that, “Christmas is the celebration of Peace. The birth of Christ has brought peace to the world. The Christians across the world epitomize Christ’s peace, joy, tolerance and sacrifice in their lives

and make this world a better place to live in. Christianity is a peacelovingreligion. Themotto, ‘Liveand LetLive',isthe hallmark ofChristian community,” hewasaddressing the honourable guests of Bandhutva Christmas Celebration held in the evening of December 27, 2022, at Father Muller Convention Centre, Kankanady Mangaluru. ‘Bandhutva’ is the signature programme of Most Rev. Dr Peter

Paul Saldanha, the bishop of Mangalore,tostrengthenthebonds with other religions by promoting themessage ofpeace,harmony and brotherhood. To break the usual practice, this year, the diocese of Mangalore organised a BandhutvaChristmas celebration in association with Father Muller Charitable Institutions, Mangaluru.

IPS officer N. Shashi Kumar, Police Commissioner of Mangaluru was the guest of honour at the Bandhutva celebration. Thepolitical leaders; including Ex-Mla J R Lobo, Ex-Minister Ramanath Rai, Ex-MLC Ivan D Souza; luminaries of public administration, city corporators, including Naveen D’souza, Advocate M.P. Noronha, officers fromthedepartments ofHealthand Education including Vice Chancellor of Nitte University Dr SathishBhandary, VC of Yenepoya University Dr Vijay Kumar, health, including Dr Bhaskar Shetty (City Hospital) Dr Shantharam Shetty (Tejasvini Hospital), Dr Yusuf Kumble (Indiana Hospital), officers from banking sector, NGO, Media, religious leaders, heads of Christian institutions were present.

With a grateful heart Mr Shashi Kumar said, “I am overwhelmed to note that that all Catholic Institutions in Mangalore namely Father Muller Charitable Institutions, RoshiniNilaya, St Aloysius College, St Agnes Institutions are very well coordinating with the Police department and they are generous towards public administration. I am grateful to you.”

Speaking highly of Mangaluru city, Mr Shashi Kumar said, “I am happy to serve Mangalore, a peaceful and educated city. Although the city appears to be sensitive externally, People of Mangalore origin are known for mutual respect and mutualcoordination. Thecitycomes back to normalcy even in any bad situation, even when the social fabric is disrupted. Peace is the resonance of this land.” Mr Shashi Kumar also enthralled the audience with his song and spread a joyful atmosphere around.

Inhis message Bishop Peter Paul

Saldanha said, “Lord Jesus is born, notasangeloranimalbutashuman being. That’s why every Christian respects the human being from womb to tomb. Because God has shared our life. The purpose of sharing His life with us and to resemble usis to make usresemble God sothatwebecomeaportion of God. He further noted that Christmas unites usall as ‘Bandhu’ and callsto build ‘Bandhutva’ through fraternal love.ThemessageofChristmasisto learn from Jesus to be meek and humble, to be kind and gentle and to respect one another with simplicity, compassion, humility and to become someone similar to Him.

Mr Roy Castelino, PRO of the diocese of Mangalore welcomed the gathering. Father Muller Staff and Nursing students sang Christmas Carols in different languages and danced with Santa. Dr Kelvin Pais, Liaison Officer FMC cheered the gathering with some games. Rev. Fr Richard Coelho, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions rendered the vote of thanks and said the prayer before the fellowship meal. Dr RitheshD’Cunha, from the Dept of Anaesthesiology and Dr Shannon Fernandes from the Dept of OBG compered the programme.

VEEZ NewsNetwork.

AnnualFeastofInfantJesus2023

The Annual Feast of Infant Jesus at Infant Jesus Shrine, Carmel Hill, Bikarnakatte – Mangaluru will be celebratedonJan14 &15,2023.

Festal Celebration:

TheFestalMassonJan14at10.30 am will be presided over by Most Rev.Fr Daniel Veigus, OP,Episcopal Vicar and at 6.00 pm will be presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Deepak Valerian Tauro, Aux.Bishop ofArch- DioceseofDelhi.

TheFestalMassonJan15at10.30 am will be presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Pius James D Souza, Definitor General, Rome and at 6.00pm will be presided over by Most Rev.Fr Maxim Noronha, Vicar General, Mangalore.

Therewill beMassesallthrough the daytoo on 14Jan. MassinKonkani will be celebrated at 6.00 am, 7.30 amin English, 9.00 am in Konkani

and 1.00 am in Kannada. Mass for

the sick and the aged will be celebrated at 10.30 am in Konkani. The Festal Mass on the Second day (Jan 15): 6.00 am, 7.30 am, 9.00 am in Konkani. 10.30 Mass for the Children & 1.00 pm in Malayalam (Latin Rite) and 4.00 pm Malayalam (Syro Malabar Rite).

Formal Inauguration

The formal inauguration of the festivity will be held on Jan 4, 2023 at 4.00 pm with the votive offering procession beginning at Jayashree Gate followed byflag hoisting.

NineDays Novena

Inpreparation for the Annual Feast, nine days of Novena Prayers are held from Jan 5 to Jan 13 during which wehave 9 Masses every day. Masses are as follows: In the morning at 6.00, 7.30, 9.00 and 10.30 in Konkani; At noon 1.00 pm inKonkani; Intheevening at4.00 in Malayalam, 5.00 in English and 7.15 in Kannada. The main mass at 6.00 pm will be celebrated in Konkani in the open air. Eucharistic Adoration willbeconducted dailyfrom 11.30 am to12.45 pm.

Anna Santarpane:

An UnspokenVow

Sonal Lobo, Bengaluru

I,(name),takeyou,(name),tobemy wife/husband. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, sick and health. I will love you and honor you allthe daysofmy life. This is a beautiful vow taken by the couple at a Christian wedding. It is expected from the couple to follow this and fulfill the vow throughout their married life.

When I was pondering about this vow, I felt it would be nice if there was another line that could have been added which says “I will support you, stand by you and defend you, even when others around are madat you”.

Well, you heard me right. Iam sure you are questioning, why? The

answer is simple, in society today the couple is expected to take care ofeachother when one issick,they are expected to support each other financially, they are expected to share chores, they are expected to bring up children together, everything today is expected to be shared. Well, a big round of applausetotheprogressive mindset ofoursociety.But,sadlyinonlyone aspect, it is expected that the man must not support his woman or defend her when his family is mad or angry with her. Recently when I met my friend for coffee, she shared with me the sad plight of her colleague. Her colleague was a beautiful, talented young girl who was in her late twenties. It had been four years since she was married. From the beginning, she had to face a lot of restrictions andconditions atherinlaws’ place. She was stopped from pursuing her passion, she was not allowed to work in shifts, and she had to manage the chores without any external help. Despite all this, she had adjusted and managed to lead adecently happy life.Recently, duetoanaccident,shehadmobility issueswith herhandandinorder to

help her, her husband had appointed a house help. This was not taken well by the parents-inlaw. When her husband supported her, the matter blew out of proportion, and it reached a stage where issues started cropping up between the couple and they headed for adivorce.

Listeningtothismademeextremely sad, and I began to wonder about the fragility of our relationships today. Ihaveheard many people say, “A daughter isadaughter foreverbuta son is a son only till he is married”. How wrong isthis statement? Every time Ihear this, Ifind it demeaning anddisappointing. Both daughter and son love their parents equally, but every parent expects their daughter to be welcomed and taken care of by her husband and in-laws. The same parents forget that their son who has married someone’s daughter also needs to shoulder the responsibility. Inhomeswherethere is a son and a daughter, parents expectthedaughter toberespected at her in-laws’ home. If any untoward incident happens, they hold their son-in-law responsible.

They ask him to stand by their daughter come what maybut when the same situation arises in the family and their son stands by the daughter-in-law, it becomes a crime.Isthisnot hypocrisy? Inmost of the television serials and movies today,thevampiseither the daughter-in-law or the mother-inlaw. Though this may sound cliché, we seemanyfamily issuescropping upbecauseofegoandgossip inthe family. Often when the parents’ inlaw has a problem with the daughter-in-law, they share it with every other person on the planet except with the daughter-in-law. The story is the same when the daughter-in-law facesissuesaswell. Iwonder why? Ifboth parties try, sit together and have a heart-to-heart discussion on what’sbothering each other, I am sure there would be a way out. Those who gossip fail to understand that gossiping about familymembers tooutsiders creates ahugeriftandbrings sadnesstothe whole family. Those who listen to the gossip waste no time in spreading it like wildfire causing embarrassment to thefamily. Anothertoxictraitweseeinfamilies today is exaggerating small

mistakes of daughter-in-law or parents-in-law. I have seen in families where a daughter and daughter-in-law co-exist, when a mistake is committed by the daughter itiscoveredupandsugarcoated but when the daughter-inlaw commits the same mistake, it’s exaggerated beyond measure anda huge ruckus iscreated. Similarly, the daughter-in-law is able to forgive and forget when her parentscommit amistake.Butwhen herin-lawsdosomething, sheisnot able toforgive andnurtures alot of bitterness against them. It’s important for the parents-in-law and the daughter-in-law to understand that allare humans and humans make mistakes. Nobody is perfect. Aperson’s mistakes haveto becommunicated tothemgently so that they are given a chance to correct them. Onemustnot make a huge issueabout it. Divorce rates have increased in the present age. Though couples are theprimary reasonmostofthetime, the interference and constant nagging from the families also becomes areason for separation. Most newly married brides find it difficult to adapt to the customs at

the husband’s place. When these couples decide to move out tostart a nuclear family, the young bride is often accused of being a homebreaker. Which is a better option? Whether to stay afar and have relations filled with love or stay together to fight every day to eventually explode beyond repair? Also,the biggest question is, why is staying separate always considered as being initiated by the wife? The husband may also have come up with it. But why is it not even considered? Iam notencouraging anyone to leave their parents and stay afar. But when the parents are young and are able to take care of themselves and the couple feels that staying a little far would improve their personal relationship, then why not? I sometimes wonder at the irony. Many a time when the son gets an onsite opportunity the parentsareproud andthrow aparty and bid adieu to their son and daughter-in-law who would be traveling to far-off countries. But when the same son wants to stay twostreetsawayitbecomesacrime. Ifindnologic, do you? Amidst all this, the person sandwiched is usually the son/

husband. Most men go through a lot of stress trying to juggle and maintain peace in the family. Very often, the husband choosing to stand by hiswife and support her is not taken well by the parents. It does not stop here. Again, the daughter-in-law is blamed. Often daughter-in-law’s parents brought into the picture saying that they have been brainwashing their son and changing him. This is the most absurd and baseless statement I havecomeacrossmanytimes inmy circle. I wonder if the man is so dumb that he does not know the differencebetweengood andbad.If the parents haveraised their son to be so then definitely such a man does not deserve to be married. Also, it’s very important for the man tostandbyhiswife.No,Idonotsay that the man should support his woman when she is wrong. But when she is right and fighting for her basic requirements, it’s definitelynotacrimetosupport her. It does not mean when a man chooses to support and defend his wife,heisdisrespecting hisparents. The manhas taken a vow during his marriage to support his wife. To fulfilhispromise,heshouldstandby

his wife in all situations. Most often infamilyfightsandissues,thefocus is primarily on the daughter-in-law butactuallythehusband/son would befacingthebrunt.It’sapitifulsight to see himstruggle to keep both of them happy and despite all the efforts no credit is given to him. Instead, they are emotionally tormented fromalldirections.

Another biggest setback foranygirl is the identity crisis. After marriage some parents wash their hands off their daughter and tell her that she no longer belongs to her maternal house. She is made to believe that her husband’s house is her world. On the other hand, when the same woman chooses to continue to live withherin-laws sheisneverseenas a family member. Her likes and dislikes are severely restricted. She cannot touch the cupboards, she cannot change the interiors as per her taste, she cannot rearrange the furniture, and she cannot do anything because it’snot her house. Where does she actually belong? If a son’s wife is brought home as a daughter-in-law, then she is the daughter of the house. She should betreated equally, andshemustbe given the privilege to turn that

house into a beautiful home. Why isn’t she even allowed to offer any advice? Why is she treated like an outsider throughout her life? The daughter-in-law cannot ask her husbandtohelpherwiththechores. It becomes an issue, and she is labelled to be dominating. She is not allowed to sleep in when she is sick. She is called lazy, her cooking is always assumed to be bad, her way of managing the housework is questioned, and her talents are neverappreciated. Why?Iftheword “daughter” indaughter-in-law isnot considered, why is she even called so?

The biggest reason for the escalation of fights is the interference of therestofthefamily members and neighbours. When thereisadisagreement inthefamily and outsiders are involved in it, the situation worsens. Inmany families, I have seen that when there is an issuewith thedaughter-in-law, the parents-in-law discuss it with extended family members. Without knowing the actual cause of the disagreement, they not only pass judgments but give unrealistic suggestions. In many families the daughter-in-law is treated as an

outcast and she is needlessly taunted. On the other hand, even the daughter-in-law shares details of her fights with her side of the family and friends who again without knowing the ground reality advise her, which may prove devastating tothe familyinvolved. It’s high time thesefamilies realized that it is beneficial to talk to each other, rather than talk about each other. Also under such circumstances, there is no harm in approaching a family counsellor or a religious man, who is always neutral and will be competent to intervene and offer an unbiased advice.

Pleasedonotmistakemeorassume that I am irrational to support the daughter-in-law more or that this articleisbiased towards them.Since I am a daughter-in-law myself and alsomyfriendscircleisfilledwithall married women of my age, I see a lot of things happening due to which it is easier for me to write from their perspective. Very often the fight between in-laws and daughter-in-law is taken as a joke, the media treats it as a scoop for comedy, and everyone brushes it away saying it happens in

everyone’s house. Yes, without denying that, what I want to highlight is the mental trauma it causes.Both theparties go through a tremendous stress which sometimes noone realizes. Nevertheless, sympathy and empathy are reserved for the parents, and the daughter-in-law would end up being blamed as a home-breaker.

I have seen that when the son chooses to stand by his wife and doesnotjudgeherwhenhisparents havedisagreements withher,andin turn he questions the parents or politely advises them, it is considered to be acrime. Heis said tohavechangedandturned intohis wife’s pet. Outsiders and family members warnaboutparents’ curse. Nowadays there is a new trend, especially in my community where teachings by priests are forwarded has a hint. God’s word is not respected but itisforwarded tothat person or put ingroups to instigate and insult them. What are these curses? Do we know the meaning? Dothey even understand whatthey are saying? Most often when the parents shed tears, people around warn thesonand daughter-in-law

thatGod iswatching them. What about the countless tears the daughter-in-law and son shed? Won’t God see them? Is God selective to see only the parents’ tears andnot thechildren? Dragging God and cursing is not right. God sees and loves everyone equally. Above all, God commands usto do what isright and eachone isjudged based onour own actions and not based on our earthly position or title. People must stop threatening in the name of God or use His word to defame someone. Instead, they can use the same powerful words to bring about a positive change. This articleis not thejudge or point fingers, but it’s a conscious effort to inform society to re-look at the ground realities. A lot of advertisements and movies sensitize the public about sending parents to old age homes and not taking care of them. The same movies talk about dowry harassment. But many movies or social media content fail to highlight theconsequences of daily squabbles in the house. Yes, they are small. But many women today are not sensitized or empowered

enoughtohandlethem.Andinsuch situations, even small issues snowball into big problems. Especially,whentheirhusbandturns against them, they find it hard, and we have heard about so many suicides and divorces because of this simple reason. It’s time that society and the close-knit circle, must support both parties without discrimination and give them an opportunity to resolve it amicably. It’s time we encourage thehusband tostand by hiswife,no matter what the situation is.It’s okay for him to point out her mistakes and correct her, but it’s not right for a husband toabandon hiswifeforanyone – be it parents, sister or brother, or relatives. Every man must remember, his wife is a part of him andtheyareoneandasmuchashis duty is to love and take care of his parents, so is his responsibility to stay committed to his wife and support her tilltheir lastbreath. Family is the most beautiful institution on earth. It’s a replica of heaven.Letnot our ego, anger,bad traits of gossip, lying and possessiveness ruin this and cause misery to everyone. Let’s learn to acceptthat eachofusis different,

let’s learn to appreciate it and live lifehappily.

Mangaluru: Kittall Youth, Arso Journalism Awards presented

MediaRelease

Mangaluru, Jan 2: “Konkani Journals and periodicals contributed tothe immense growth of Konkani literature. Konkani journalism has a history of 110 years. The commitment of Konkani editors and publishers in shaping the careers of today's celebrated Konkani writers is worth recognizing. By bestowing a journalism award on a senior Konkani journalist ARSO is doing a great job. Along with senior journalists young and upcoming Konkani journalists should also be

recognized and honoured,“ said Ln

- SonalLobo, Bengaluru

Dr Austin Prabhu, editor-publisher of one and only digitally illustrated

Konkani weekly Veez Konkani published inChicago for thelast

five-and-half years.

occasion at Maria Jayanti Mandir, Jeppu Mangaluru conferring ARSO Journalism Award 2022 to senior Konkani journalist AvilRasqunha. Abu Dhabi-based NRIentrepreneur CA Valerian D'Almeida conferred Leo Rodrigues Family Kittall Youth Award 2022 on Clive D’Souza Boliye on behalf of the Leo Rodrigues Family. He lauded the committed contribution and unstinted support of NRI Entrepreneur and philanthropist Leo Rodrigues, whom he knew since his student days to the growth of the Konkani language, literature, art, music, and culture in India and abroad. CA D'Almeida stressed the need for applied media education and requested scribes to focus on villages where real talents are growing. Senior banker Stephen Pinto and educationist Oswald Rodrigues were guests of honour.

H M Pernal, editor – publisher of Kittall.com, Wilson Kateel, editor of ARSO, and poet-thinker Titus Noronha, chairman of the award selection committee were present on the dais.

DrPrabhu wasspeaking on the

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI passed away at 95 on December 31, 2022

PopeEmeritus,BenedictXVI,passed awayattheageof95,intheVatican on Saturday, December 31, 2022, the last day of the year, almost a decade after he became the first pontiff to resign in six centuries. The Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni announced, "With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus,BenedictXVI,passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican,"

Joseph Ratzinger and his brother Georg entered Saint Michael Seminary in Traunstein in November 1945, later studying at the Ducal Georgianum

(Herzogliches Georgianum) of the Ludwig-Maximilian University in Munich.Theywereboth ordained in Freisingon29June1951 byCardinal Michael von Faulhaber of Munich –thesamemanRatzinger hadmetas achild. The German pope emeritus, whose birth name was Joseph Ratzinger, had been living a quiet life in a former convent inside the Vatican grounds since his shock decision to step down in February 2013. Hishealthhad beendeclining for a long time, but the Vatican revealed on December 28, that his situation had worsened, while his successor Pope Francis called for Catholics worldwide to pray for

HostofKonkaniwriters,artists,wellwishers of Arso and Kittall, and family members of awardees were present.

him. His death ends an unprecedented situation in which two "men in white" Benedict and Francis had co-existed within the walls of the tiny city state.

While there is no rulebook for former popes, Benedict’s funeral is expected to be at the Vatican, presided over by Francis. In 2005 the body of John Paul II, the last pope to die, lay in state before a funeral mass in St Peter’s Square attended by one million people, including heads of state. Benedict had almost entirely withdrawn from public view, his health reported to be shaky and the few photographs that emerged of him exposing his frailty. Back in 2013, he had cited his declining physical and mental

healthinhisdecision tobecome the first pope since 1415 to give up the job as head of the worldwide Catholic church.

Benedict was a brilliant theologian, buthispapacywasbeset byVatican in-fighting and a scandal over clericalsexualabuseofchildren that rocked the Catholic Church the world over, in which he was criticisedforalackofleadership. He denied wrongdoing andtheVatican strongly defended his record in being thefirstpopetoapologise for the scandals, who expressed his own "deep remorse" and met with victims.

Born onApril16,1927, inMarktl am Inn, in Bavaria, Benedict was 78 when he succeeded the longreigning and popular JohnPaulIIin April 2005, thefirstGerman pope of

the modern era. He later said his election felt "like the guillotine". Unlike his successor Pope Francis, a Jesuit who delights in being among his flock, Benedict was a conservative intellectual dubbed "God’s Rottweiler" in a previous post as chief doctrinal enforcer.

His papacy was dogged by controversy, from comments that angered the Muslim world to a money-laundering scandal at the Vatican bank and a personal humiliation when,in2012,hisbutler leaked secret papers to the media. Despite saying he would live "hidden from the world" after his resignation, he repeatedly intervened on key issues facing the Church through books, interviews, and articles. In January 2020, he expressed his opposition to allowing priests to marry. A year earlier, he blamed clerical abuse

scandals on the 1960s sexual revolution and a collapse in faith in the West. In an interview in March 2021, he said "there is only one pope", but acknowledged "fanatical" supporters who refused to accept his resignation.

Overview :

Pope Benedict XVILatin:BenedictusXVI;(16 April1927

– 31 December 2022) was thehead of theCatholic Church and sovereign of theVatican City State from 19 April 2005 until his resignation on 28 February 2013. Benedict's election as pope occurred in the 2005 papal conclave that followed the death ofPope JohnPaulII.Benedict chose to be known as "Pope Emeritus" upon his resignation, and he retained this title untilhisdeath. .

Ordained apriest along with his brother Gerog, in 1951 in his native Bavaria, Ratzinger embarked on an academic career and established himself as a highly regarded theologian by the late 1950s. He was appointed a full professor in 1958 at the age of 31. Afteralong careerasaprofessor of theology at several German universities, he was appointed Archbishop of Munich and Freising and created acardinal byPope Paul VI in 1977, anunusual promotion for someone with little pastoral experience. In 1981, he was appointed Prefect of theCongregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, one of the most important dicasteries of the Roman Curia. From 2002 until he was elected pope, he was alsoDean of the College of Cardinals. Before becoming pope, he was "a major

figure on theVaticanstage for a quarter of a century"; he had an influence "second to none when it came to setting church priorities and directions" as one of John PaulII'sclosest confidants.

His writings were prolific and generally defended traditional Catholic doctrine, values, and liturgy. He was originally aliberal theologian but adopted conservative views after 1968. During his papacy, Benedict XVI advocated a return to fundamental Christian valuesto counter the increased secularisation of manyWestern countries. He viewed relativism's denial ofobjective truth, and the denial ofmoral truths in particular, as the central problem ofthe21st century. He taught the importance of both

the Catholic Church and an understanding of God's redemptive love. Benedict also revived several traditions, including elevating theTridentine Mass. He strengthened the relationship between the Catholic Church and art, promoted the use of Latin, and reintroduced traditional papal vestments, for which reason he was called "the pope of aesthetics". He was described as "the main intellectual force in the Church" sincethemid-1980s.

On 11 February 2013, Benedict announced his resignation, citing a "lack ofstrength ofmind andbody" due to his advanced age. His resignation was the first by a pope sinceGregory XIIin 1415, and the first on a pope's initiative sinceCelestine Vin 1294. He was succeeded byFrancis on 13 March 2013 and moved into the newly renovated Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City for his retirement. In addition to his native German language, Benedict had some level of proficiency in French, Italian,English,andSpanish.Healso

opposition to usage of condoms in areas of high HIVtransmission, despite their effectiveness in preventing thespread ofHIV,ledto substantial criticism from public health officials, anti-AIDS activists, andvictim's rights organizations.

knew Portuguese, Latin, Biblical Hebrew, andBiblical Greek. He was a member of several social scienceacademies, such as the French Académie des Sciences Morales etPolitiques. Heplayed the piano nd preferred Mozart andBach. His handling of sexual abuse cases within the Catholic Church and

Note : According to Official news, theEmerituspope's funeralwilltake place in St Peter's Square, the vast square in front of the basilica, on Thursdayat9:30am (0830 GMT)."As the Pope Emeritus wished, the funeralwill be simple," VEEZ NewsNetwork.

MCCBankholdsNRI Meet2022

On the occasion of the Post Centenary decennial celebration of the bank, NRI meet was organised by M.C.C. Bank Ltd at the Pacific IV Hall, Hotel Ocean Pearl, near Navabharath Circle, Mangaluru on Friday 30th December,2022. The programme started with the prayer song.

The NRIMeet was presided over by Anil Lobo, Chairman of the bank. The meet was formally inaugurated by Rev Dr Rocky D’Cunha, Superior of St. Ann’s Friary Mangaluru. Dr Ronald Colaco, NRI Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, Walter Nandalike, Founder & Managing Director ofDaijiworld MediaPvt.Ltd,

Mangaluru, CARudolph Rodrigues,

were theguests ofhonour. Anil Lobo, in his presidential

address, said that the MCC Bank is thepride ofour community andthe foundation forwhichwaslaidbythe

visionaries and philanthropists 110 years back. He emphasised the importance of the customers in the banking business and said that the staff are being properly trained at the training centre to be more responsive to the needs of the customers and offer the best customer service. He informed the gathering about the conduct of customers’ meetings at all the branches and the positive feedback received from all the customers about the excellent customer service offered by the Bank. He requested the NRI customers to support the Bank by their word-ofmouth publicity in their respective countries where they are employed or pursuing their business.

by NRIs during interactive session.CA Rudolph also spoke about the progress made by MCC Bank for the last 4 years and appreciated the professionalism prevailing inthe Bank.

Rev Dr Rocky DCunha, in his inaugural speech appreciated the Chairman,ManagementandStaffof the bank for rendering selfless service to the society. He explained the virtues of generosity and said sharing always doubles the Joy, what we earn will give us living and what we give will earn a life. He quoted Mahatma Gandhi’s words saying helping the humanity is by fartheimportant essence oflife.

CA Rudolph Rodrigues, while delivering a talk on Taxation for NRIs, explained various provisions of Income Tax/capital gains tax applicable to NRIs,Resident butnot ordinarily residents (RNORs) and resident Indians. He also explained the provisions under the IT Act and FEMA.Heclarifiedthedoubts raised

Walter Nandalike congratulated the Chairman, Management, and the stafffortheirwonderfulprogress for the last 4 years, throughout hard work and dedication, despite Critism from certain sections of the community. He expressed that it is easier to critise than to achieve. He also stressed the importance of making the community’s only bank

stronger by offering full support and co-operation from the members ofthecommunity.

Dr Ronald Colaco, in his address said that Christian community is known world over for doing the noble work inthefieldofeducation, healthcare and charity. He appreciated the Bank for its tremendous achievement in all business parameters since 2018. He urged the community members, especially the NRIs, to extend their 100% support and help the Bank in its growth. He pledged to help the Bank in increasing its capital and alsothe NRIDeposits.

Onthisoccasion theNRIcustomers

were honoured with shawls and flower bouquets for being a great support to theBank.

Vice Chairman Jerald Jude Dsilva, Directors Marcel Dsouza, David Dsouza, Herold Monteiro, Andrew Dsouza, Roshan Dsouza, Irene Rebello, Dr Freeda Dsouza, Elroy Kiran Crasto, C.G. Pinto, Sushanth Saldanha, Sharmila Menezes,Alwyn P Monteiro, Felix D’cruz,DyGeneral Manager Raj Menezes, Senior Manager (NRI)were also present.

Board of Management Chairman Anil Patrao welcomed the gathering. General Manager Sunil Menezesproposed avoteofthanks. Roshan D’silva compered.

Bondelchurchnewyearmass

As the old year 2022 was about to end and the New Year 2023 was waiting to see the dawn, the parishioners of Bondel assembled in the Church at 6.30 p.m. on 31st December 2022 to bid goodbye to the old year and welcome the New

Year2023withprayer andhope.The parishioners ofSt Lawrence Church, Bondel here gathered in large numbers for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

To give thanks to God for all the good things that he had showered onthepeopleoftheparish,theHoly Hour wasled by RevFr AndrewLeo

D’Souza & Rev Dr Fr Ivan D'Souzaprofessor inphilosophy attheinterdiocesan seminary, Jeppu, . with reflection and devotion. While thanking the Lord for the blessings that He had showered on the faithful,Rev Fr. Andrew helped the people to reflect upon their own shortcomings andiniquities. The Solemnity of the Mary, Mother of God feast began with the EucharisticBanquet. RevFr Prakash Cutinha ,wasthe maincelebrant. Rev Dr Fr Ivan D'Souza his homily, he highlighted the importance of Mary Mother ofGod . ಮರಿ ಆಮ್ಕಾ೦ ಎಕ್ ಬೆಸಾ೦ವ್ ಆಮ್ಕಯಾ ಜಿಣಿಯೆ೦ತ್ ಎಕ್ ಲಿಸಾ೦ವ್ Today’s Feast of Mary, the Mother of God is a very appropriate way to begin a new year. This celebration reminds us that the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother ofGod, isalso ourHeavenly Mother. “Through Mary to Jesus!" This is an occasion to renew our devotion to Mary, who is also Mother of the Church because she isourspiritualmother —andweare the Church. The solemnity shows therelationship ofJesustoMary.It’s

aperfectexampleofhowweshould venerate Mary under allof hertitles and is a good foundation for our understanding of Mary’s place in Christology. The Church puts the feast of this solemnity on the first day of the New Year to emphasize the importance of Mary’s role in the lifeofChrist andofthe Church.

Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza Parish Priest , Rev Fr Peter Gonsalves Principal St Lawrence English Medium school , Rev Fr Lancy D’Souza Asst. Parish Priest , Rev Ravi-MSIJ,,RevFrArul,RevFrVipin Betharram RevFr Theo, RevFrKiran SJ con-celebrated the mass. The Children choirenrichedthespiritual atmosphere by singing melodiously themeaningful hymns. Before the final blessings , prizes were distributed to the winners of Individual CribMakingCompetition and Ward wise Star Making Competition. The oath taking ceremony of the Newly Elected Vice President & Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council & Financial Committee

,Office Bearers, Gurkars , Representatives & Nominated members was held. Thisceremony was initiated by Rev Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza . The parishioners who participated in the Holy Eucharist witnessed the Oath Taking Ceremony. Attheend ParishPriest Rev.Fr.

Andrew Leo greeted one and all and wished a very prosperous new year 2023. He Thanked the concelebrants priests, the Children choir, Liturgy Committee, Volunteers, PPC Members and all those helped in the celebration of the New Year. After the mass there was a short programme conducted by SVPassociation.

Dog Meat Festival

Vincent DSouza

In China there is tradition of Dog MeatFestival. Some oppose it.They call themselves animal lovers or animal rights activists.

Food habitsvary.Idonotknowhow manyfruitariansarethere.Thereare vegans. There are vegetarians who do not eat eggs, fish, and meat. There are different types of nonvegetarians. Some do not eat beef. Some do not eat pork. Burmese, Chinese, Filipinos, Japanese, Vietnamese, and some others eat meat of cats,dogs, rats,snakes and soon.

People who want to hold meat festivals should not be prevented. Otherwise, somebody or the other will find something or the other objectionable. From the ban on

meat festivals there will be demand for ban on eating meat. Some will want to ban beef; some on pork; some on chicken; some on mutton; some on meat of cats, dogs, rats, snakes and so on. There will be people who will demand a ban on eggs and fish. Some will demand banon onions, garlic, potatoes, and tomatoes. Some will demand a ban on milk and dairy products. If a species is endangered there is justification for ban on hunting or killing any being that belongs to that species. Ban on whaling or huntingofendangered wild animals

isjust.Poachingisacrime.However, if animals of a species multiply and become a problem, ban on killing them may be lifted. Many years ago therewasabanonkilling kangaroos in Australia. Kangaroos multiplied and created problems for people. Australia lifted the ban on killing kangaroos. There are many stray dogs. They bark atalltimes. Atnight they disturb sleep. Ban on eating meat will result in multiplication of birds and animals and life will be difficultfor humanbeings.

-Vincent Augustine D'Souza