Saint Mother Teresa’s 115th Birth Anniversary Commemorated at Mother House and Archbishop House Calcutta

 Kolkata, August 26, 2025: The 115th birth anniversary of Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta was observed with solemnity and devotion at the Mother House Chapel on AJC Bose Road, Kolkata. A Holy Mass was concelebrated by Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta and Coadjutor Bishop Elias Frank.

 The liturgical celebration was followed by a prayer service at the Tomb of Saint Mother Teresa, where clergy and faithful offered their heartfelt tributes. The occasion also coincided with the 75th birthday of Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, who was felicitated with a cake by the Missionaries of Charity sisters and the gathered faithful.

 

Later in the day, both prelates participated in a garlanding ceremony in honour of Saint Teresa at the Archbishop’s House, attended by staff and visitors. The event featured prayers and hymns, accompanied on the accordion by Chancellor Fr. Dominic Gomes, before the bronze statue of the Saint of the Poor. The nearby statue of Saint John Paul II was also respectfully garlanded, underscoring the reverence of the occasion.

Saint Mother Teresa’s life and work continue to inspire countless people across India and the world, reflecting her enduring legacy of service to the poor and vulnerable. Her example of compassion and dedication remains a guiding light for communities everywhere.

Calcutta Archdiocese Welcomes Coadjutor Archbishop Elias Frank

Kolkata, August 24, 2025 – The Archdiocese of Calcutta welcomed its new Coadjutor, Archbishop Elias Frank, while also marking the second anniversary of his Episcopal Ordination with a Pontifical High Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, Murgihatta, on Sunday morning.

The solemn celebration, which began in the morning, was led by Archbishop Elias as the principal celebrant. He was joined at the altar by Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta and 20 priests, including Deans, Provincials, and other senior clergy. The liturgy drew a large congregation of clergy, religious, and laity, though attendance was limited mainly to parishioners of the Cathedral, which now serves as the titular See of Archbishop Elias until his succession as Archbishop of Calcutta. To ensure wider participation, the Mass was live streamed across the Archdiocese, enabling the faithful to share in the historic occasion.

A highlight of the ceremony came when Archbishop Thomas D’Souza felicitated the new Coadjutor with an uthorio and bouquet, after which representatives of the religious and laity extended their greetings. Among them was a young girl, whose offering was warmly acknowledged by Archbishop Elias with a cheerful “high five”, drawing smiles across the congregation.

The congregation also witnessed a symbolic moment when the Letter of Appointment from Pope Leo was read aloud in English by the Chancellor, Fr. Dominic Gomes. The original Latin manuscript was then presented for all to see, underscoring the solemnity of the papal mandate.

Following the liturgical celebration, parishioners were invited to share in light refreshments. This offered a more informal moment for the faithful to personally greet and congratulate Archbishop Elias, strengthening the bond between the shepherd and his flock.

The celebration marked not only a milestone in Archbishop Elias’s own journey but also a significant moment in the life of the Archdiocese. As Coadjutor, he now prepares to eventually assume full responsibility as Archbishop of Calcutta, a role in which he will guide the faithful of one of India’s most historic Catholic sees.

The day’s events reflected both reverence for tradition and a sense of joyful community, as the Archdiocese looked forward to a new chapter in its pastoral leadership.

COADJUCTOR BISHOP ELIAS FRANK ASSUMES OFFICE IN CALCUTTA ARCHDIOCESE

 Kolkata, August 20, 2025: Bishop Elias Frank, the Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Calcutta, took possession of office at Archbishop House today in a short ceremony held at the Archbishop’s Library.

After introductions and a prayer by Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, the Coadjutor presented his Appointment Letter – attached with the Seal of the Fisherman – received from Pope Leo XIV, to the Archbishop in the presence of the Archdiocesan College of Consultors. Each member of the College inspected the document as it was passed between them.

Bishop Elias will also serve as the new Vicar General of the archdiocese with immediate effect, succeeding V. Revd. Dominic Gomes, who has held the post since 2012.

With the presentation and acceptance of the credentials, Bishop Elias immediately ceased to hold the See of the Bishop of Asansol. He will now serve as the Apostolic Administrator of that diocese until a new bishop is appointed.

Fr. Mervyn Carapiet Memorial Lecture Highlights Vision Beyond Academic Excellence

 

Kolkata, August 18, 2025 – The Archdiocese of Calcutta hosted the 2025 Father Mervyn Carapiet Memorial Lecture at the Church of Christ the King, Park Circus on August 17. This year’s distinguished speaker, Dr. Dominic Savio SJ, Principal of St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata, addressed the theme “Reimagining Education in the 21st Century: A Paradigm Shift Towards Inclusiveness and Transformation.”

Fr. Savio described education as “the cornerstone of progress, the catalyst for both individual and collective transformation.” He emphasised the importance of students feeling valued and empowered throughout their educational journey. At the same time, he acknowledged that many remain deprived of quality education due to lack of opportunities. “We need to correct such anomalies so that everyone can get a chance to educate themselves for a better tomorrow,” he urged.

While calling for broader access, Fr. Savio stressed that education must remain sensitive to cultural diversity so that it is meaningful and purposeful. He also highlighted the growing challenge of student mental health, calling it a chronic concern in today’s highly competitive world.

During the interactive session, Fr. Savio responded to a question by reflecting on the mission of Catholic institutions. He noted that while academic excellence is desirable, the true goal should be to provide “something more than academic excellence, which others cannot offer; otherwise, we are working for naught.”

Adding her perspective, Sr. Marisa Robert, the respected foundress of Marian Education Centre, contributed valuable insights to the discussion.

The lecture drew an engaged audience, including veteran filmmaker Firdausal Hassan, Kolkata Press Club president Snehashish Sur, school principals, teachers, clergy, nuns, and distinguished alumni from Catholic institutions across the city. Attendees listened attentively as Fr. Savio outlined his vision for inclusive and transformative education.

In a symbolic gesture of honour, Vicar General Fr. Dominic Gomes crowned Fr. Savio with a golden laurel diadem, recognising the wisdom and scholarship he shared. The event concluded with closing prayers led by the Vicar General, followed by light refreshments.

 

 

 

Celebrating 1700 years of the Nicene Creed at Bishop's College

- Isaac Harold Gomes 

Archbishop Thomas D’Souza lights the candle at Bishop’s College Conference on 02 August 2025

 

 

On Saturday 02 August 2025, Bishop’s College Kolkata, under the auspices of its principal Rev. Dr Sunil Caleb and his team, bettingly hosted the historic event of 1700th Anniversary of the Nicene Creed which was promulgated by Emperor Constantine in collaboration with bishops (from far and near) in Nicaea (now İznik, Republic of Türkiye) in 325 AD.
The historic convention was very aptly described by Bishop Paritosh Canning (Bishop of Calcutta, CNI and President-Bengal Christian Association). He wrote: “I am particularly moved to see the spirit of ‘Ut Unum Sint’ (that they may be one) embodied in the joint efforts of the Theological Colleges of Bengal – Bishop’s College, Morning Star Regional Seminary, Barrackpore, Serampore College, Calcutta Bible Seminary and Buntain celebration.
This collaborative endeavour, under the patronage of the Roman Catholic Bishops, CNI Bishops, and Orthodox Churches of Bengal, is a powerful testament to our shared faith and our commitment to Ecumenical Unity. As we gather as “Pilgrims of Hope,” let us seize this
opportunity to reflect on the Creed’s historical significance, reaffirm its doctrinal importance and explore its ongoing relevance for Christian Life and Ministry.”

After a brief introduction by Rev Sunil Caleb, Brahmabandhab Upadhyay’s (1861-1907) Sanskrit composition Vande Vande Sachidanandam Vande Sachidanandam, Vande
Vande meaning Worship, worship (the One who is) Being, Knowledge, Bliss…
The Supreme, Ancient, Higher than the high… (Who is) Fullness, Wholeness, Beyond… Worship, worship, worship) was  sung by Bishop’s College choir.
All then stood up and recited the Nicene Creed. Thereafter, a colourful souvenir on the historic event was released by Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Calcutta.
The Nicene Creed, is the only ecumenical creed on Christian statement of faith because it is accepted as authoritative by the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and major Protestant churches.
Rev. Dr. George Panthanmackel, MSFS of Morning Star College, Barrackpore (holder of three doctorates) gave the keynote address. At the outset he clarified that the Nicene Conference in 325 AD was necessitated owing to the Arian Heresy. Arius, a priest from Alexandria,
challenged the traditional belief in the divinity of Christ, arguing that Jesus was a created being, and can’t be equal to God the Father.
To stamp out Arianism for good, and to establish that Jesus was Fully God yet Fully Human,   the Conference of Nicaea and emphasised on the inclusion of `consubstantial’ (literally, “of the same substance”).

Rev. George clarified that the Nicene Creed we recite today isn’t the same which was adopted in Nicaea in 325 AD. Some additions were made in subsequent conferences. For example, 381 AD Council of Constantinople further clarified the Nicene Creed, particularly regarding the Holy Spirit as: “I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and Giver of life, who proceeds from
the Father, who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified, who spoke through the prophets.” This addition was crucial in establishing the doctrine of the Trinity, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit is also divine and equal to the Father and the Son.
During Question-Answer session on Rev. George’s keynote address, one participant said that the Nicene Creed which was written 1700 years ago, needs to be revised in keeping with times, to be more inclusive. Rev. George replied that for this another Council needs to be
held.
Ms Christine Nathan, President of International Catholic Migrants’ Commission (ICMC) was the next speaker. Her topic was the `Impact of Nicene Creed on the life of Christians.’ She has a vast experience of having worked with International Labour Organisation (ILO), several
NGOs and Civil Societies. She is also a noted trade unionist from Mumbai. Salient features of Ms Nathan’s dissertation are given below:
“Why do we need the Nicene Creed instead of the Word?
(She answered the Creed is an authoritative and incontrovertible church document).The Nicene Creed helps in cementing the faith in one God and His justice among migrants and refugees. She mentioned late Pope Francis was very supportive of migrants/refugees and this helped ICMC rehabilitate 500,000 refugees from Syria and other countries in the
USA.
After Ms Nathan, Rev. Dr Zadingluaia Chinzah of Serampore College spoke on the History of the Council of  Nicaea and the Nicene Creed. Key points of his talk were:
Arius, a highly-respected priest from Alexandria argued that Jesus was a created being, inferior to God the Father and not of the same substance (consubstantial) as Him.
After intense debate, the Council affirmed the divinity of Jesus Christ, declaring Him to be “co-eternal” and “consubstantial” with the Father. This statement of faith has shaped Christian doctrine for centuries.
The Council of Nicaea marked a turning point in Christian history, demonstrating the Church’s ability to unite on core doctrines. Today, the Nicene Creed remains a
fundamental statement of faith, recited in churches around the world.
Rev. Dr Swarup Bar (Professor of Christian Theology, Bishop’s College) spoke on the doctrinal and theological dimensions of Nicene Creed as follows:
Nicene Creed is actually Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed (the more accurate term). It’s for continuity and unchangeability.
The Creed was developed by Emperor Constantine in a very political context.
Despite this limitation, there are many theological and doctrinal elements that continue to be relevant to the Christian faith today. The Creed has stood the test of time
for 1700 years. To embody the `Trinitarian’ framework of the Creed,
Greek terminologies were used as they were considered most appropriate.
There was only one line on the Holy Spirit in 325 AD Nicene Creed: “I believe in the Holy Spirit”. This contrasts with the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed of 381 AD, which expanded on the Holy Spirit’s role and nature. Divinity of the Son Jesus is very important because
otherwise the Salvation History doesn’t hold good. Nicene Creed establishes that Jesus’ Resurrection has indeed happened.
The feminist perspectives of the Nicene Creed are:
Jesus became Human, not man. We only highlight the Crucifixion and Death of Jesus but
not his birth. The Nicene Creed does. Chhotebhai speaks on Nicene Creed from Laity’s Point of view at Bishop’s College Chhotebhai (a towering lay leader, former President of All
India Catholic Union and currently Convenor of Indian Catholic Forum) dealt on the Pastoral dimension of the Nicene Creed from Laity’s point of view. He covered three areas on the Creed as follows:
The Trinity, Nicaea, Legalese.

Fr James Arjen Tete (third from left) Jesuit Provincial Kolkata holds the Souvenir

 

The credit for the seamless organization of the entire programme goes to Rev. Dr Sunil Caleb and to Rev. Francis Sunil Rosario, Regional Secretary, West Bengal Commission for Ecumenism, CCBI.

Feast of St John Marie Vianney

 

The Feast of St John Marie Vianney was joyfully celebrated with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Archbishop Thomas D’Souza at Vianney Home at 6:45 am. Archbishop was joined by the Fathers from the Archbishop’s House and the Jesuit Provincial House , Fathers from.St Thomas parish as well as the Sisters of Vianney Home and our beloved sick priests Fr Babu and Mr Martin.

The Sisters beautifully organized the liturgy, with heartfelt singing and active participation, creating a prayerful and uplifting atmosphere.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Archbishop Thomas along with Fr Dominic visited Fr Orson in his room, offered a special blessing, and administered Holy Communion with great tenderness.

The celebration concluded with a short but meaningful felicitation program, followed by a delightful breakfast, marking the day Joyful.

Inaugural Ceremony of Theology Course for Laity at Archbishop's House

The Inaugural Ceremony of the Theology Course for the Academic Year 2025–2026 was held with reverence and joy at the Archbishop’s House.

The program began with a solemn Bible Procession, followed by the Enthronement of the Holy Bible, led by His Grace Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, invoking God’s Word as the foundation of our academic and spiritual journey.

Fr Dominic Gomes extended a warm welcome to the Archbishop, the professors from Morning Star College, and all the participants of the course.

His Grace  delivered an inspiring Inaugural Message, encouraging the participants to grow in faith, understanding, and service through theological formation.

Rev Fr Dr Henry Jose MSFS presented the Dynamics of the Course, highlighting its objectives, structure, and spiritual relevance.

Rev Fr Dr Peter Lingdamoo shared a thoughtful message on behalf of Rev  Fr Dr  George MSFS (  Rector of Morning Star College,)  emphasizing the vital role of laity Empowerment  in the life of the Church.

Two devotional songs were rendered during the ceremony, adding a reflective and prayerful dimension to the celebration, uplifting the hearts of all present.

The program concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Fr Dominic Gomes, expressing deep gratitude to everyone whose contributions made the event meaningful and memorable.

The ceremony came to a fitting close with the soulful hymn "Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart," echoing the collective spirit of gratitude and joy among all gathered.

May the year ahead be one of deep faith, fruitful learning, and spiritual growth for all.