Category Archives: News & Events

Bombay’s Catholic newspaper marks its 175th anniversary – Crux

Bombay’s Catholic newspaper marks its 175th anniversary – Crux

The Examiner – 175th Anniversary

By Nirmala Carvalho, Contributor – Mar 11, 2024

MUMBAI, India – As it marks its 175th anniversary, Cardinal Oswald Gracias calls Bombay’s diocesan newspaper “a beacon of truth, a voice of reason, and a source of inspiration for countless individuals across India and beyond.”

“As we reflect on this momentous occasion, it is impossible not to be awed by the rich history and the legacy of excellence that The Examiner embodies,” the cardinal said.

“Since its inception, The Examiner has remained steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values of the Church, fostering dialogue, and serving as a catalyst for positive change within our community and society at large,” he added.

[Editor’s note: Nirmala Carvalho, Crux’s Asia correspondent, was awarded The Golden Pen Award for Excellence in Journalism, by Cardinal Gracias on March 10. The entire Crux staff offers our congratulations to her!] 

Gracias noted that beyond its role as a purveyor of news and information, The Examiner has played a vital role in shaping the narrative surrounding critical issues facing the Church and society.

“Through its insightful articles and reporting, thought-provoking commentary, and unwavering advocacy for justice and compassion, The Examiner has not only informed minds but also touched hearts, inspiring countless individuals to action and reflection,” he said.

The Examiner was established on July 10, 1849, by the Jesuits. It is the oldest English language Catholic newspaper in India.

“Looking ahead to the next 175 years and beyond, let us recommit ourselves to the values and ideals that have guided The Examiner since its inception: Integrity, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to serving the Church and society with humility and compassion,” Gracias added.

“May this anniversary year be a time of renewal, celebration, and rededication to the noble mission of journalism as a force for good in the world,” he said.

Father Anthony Charanghat has been the editor of The Examiner for over 25 years, and associated with the magazine for 50 years.

“As raise our hearts on the occasion of the 175th year of the uninterrupted publication of The Examiner to give thanks to God for the gift that He has given us,” he said in a message sent to Crux.

“We do not take this occasion to trumpet the glories of our work, for we are just frail vessels of clay made from the earth, and unto dust we shall return. But praise we must: Give glory to God for the wonders and marvels of His work, and loudly proclaim and communicate the grandeur of His Love.,” the priest added.

“Where do we begin to tell the story of how great the love of God can be, greater than the ocean and the sea, a communion between God and humanity! This is the essence of the branding of The Examiner insignia which gives us the motto, and the icon of what a religious Catholic newspaper ought to be,” Charanghat said.

The priest said The Examiner is a religious magazine which gives primacy of place to human relationship with God.

“Hence, The Examiner is called to function as a mirror of God’s Love revealed by His Word, who is Christ. The Examiner, being a Catholic religious newspaper, has to interpret the deeper insights of God’s Word in the language of the common person,” he said.

Charanghat said the newspaper has employed the language of scripture to convey the message of the mission entrusted to every person “to fulfil their call to bring the Kingdom values on Earth.”

“The literary genre of the language of the Bible has been extensively used in The Examiner and by our writers who were legends of yore, that has elevated the tenor and tone of The Examiner and raised it to the touch of the Divine, casting a spiritual glow that makes The Examiner so riveting,” he said.

“It is interesting to observe that human religious writings are always inspired by God, especially if they mirror the revelations of God, as evidenced by the authors of the Bible. The language of the Bible has been extolled as the best literature in the world which touches the mind, moves the heart and changes the world. The Bible has been deemed universally as the greatest story of Love ever told,” the priest added.

“Above all, the Bible is a story of Salvation realised in the redeeming life of Jesus Christ, our mediator between God and man,” he said.

He also wanted to pay tribute to a galaxy of eminent writers and contributors who have “embellished the volumes of The Examiner over the years with their expertise, knowledge and writing skills, who have made it a readers’ delight to be found not only in many Christian homes, but also avidly read in public libraries, educational institutions and hospitals, to bring comfort and solace in the healing powers of God in their moments of pain and suffering.”

“I cannot fail to thank the dynamic and exuberant Father Joshan Rodrigues, who has been a pillar of strength, upholding the edifice of The Examiner as he assisted me in editing the content and operations of The Examiner, and on several occasions, writing the leaders of the newsweekly,” Charanghat said.

Looking to the future, the editor said it is his sincere belief and hope that the next generation of the newspaper’s family will “surely steer the forward march of The Examiner to greater heights into the last lap of the bicentennial.”

Congratulations Fr. Mayank Parmar for successfully defending his doctoral dissertation on 29th February, 2024 at the Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat.

Congratulations Fr. Mayank Parmar for successfully defending his doctoral dissertation on 29th February, 2024 at the Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat.

Fr. Mayank Parmar defending his doctoral dissertation

Fr. Mayank did his doctoral research on the topic “A study on the role of Self-Help Groups (SHG) in developing the socio-economic status of women in the Kapadvanj Taluka.” During his presentation, Fr. Mayank pointed out that the data clearly showed that SHG membership had a positive impact on the socio-economic status of the women. He emphasized that this research study would be useful to government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, volunteers, bankers and others who are involved in women empowerment. Further, He explained how measuring the social and economic impact of SHG membership would encourage women to join SHGs and benefit from being part of these groups. Finally, Fr. Mayank highlighted the fact that his research could help development organizations use the SHG model of empowerment effectively.

Fr. Mayank Parmar, Dr. Bigi Thomas, Dr. Soniya Rajput, Shivani D. Mishra

Fr. Mayank obtain a doctorate in the field of Social Work on 29th February, 2024 at the Sardar Patel University, VV Nagar in the presence of Guide Dr. Bigi Thomas, Reader Dr. Soniya  Rajput, Director Shivani D. Mishra. Fr. Mayank was ordained as SDB priest on December 27, 2008 at St. Joseph Church, Karamsad. He served 13 years in Kapadvanj. Currently he is a Rector and Parish Priest at Kawant.

Priestly Ordained on 27th December 2008

His superior appreciated his effort and achievement and congratulated him by saying, “It is highly commendable that Fr. Mayank did this entire doctoral research while carrying on his regular ministry in the community. Congratulations Fr. Mayank.”

Please click here to read the summary of his thesis.

Gaza teen waits to follow vocation: ‘My faith is flourishing amidst the challenges of war’ – Catholic News Agency.

Gaza teen waits to follow vocation: ‘My faith is flourishing amidst the challenges of war’ – Catholic News Agency.

Suhail Shadi Abu Dawod

By Marinella Bandini – Jerusalem, Mar 11, 2024 / 06:00 am – Catholic News Agency

Five months ago in Gaza City, 18-year-old Suhail Shadi Abu Dawod was waiting for a visa for Italy to begin his novitiate in the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE) — and then the Israel-Hamas war broke out.

“I began considering joining the Incarnate Word congregation in 2021, when I was 15 years old,” Abu Dawod told CNA through his pastor, Father Gabriel Romanelli. “I wish to join it because it is a simple and humble congregation that spreads the message of love, spirituality, praying the rosary, and faith worldwide.”

Abu Dawod is a postulant of the institute. He is following in the footsteps of both priests at his parish who are part of the IVE.

“When the war started and interrupted my journey, I felt deep sadness and disappointment. However, I came to realize that God is preparing a significant gift for me and for the development of my vocation. It is part of God’s plan. I trust in God’s guidance, and I firmly believe in his grace for me,” he said.

Like hundreds of other Christians in Gaza, Abu Dawod and his family left their home and have been living within the premises of the Latin Parish of the Holy Family in northern Gaza for the past five months.

“Feeling blessed in the midst of war” or “faith is stronger than war” are some of the thoughts that Abu Dawod shares on Facebook from time to time.

“I really feel blessed,” he told CNA, “as I witness all the people attending and praying in the holy Mass, united together with one heart, especially on the occasion of the Christmas feast, celebrating the birth of Jesus!”

Every day, the postulant participates in the Mass as an altar server and takes care of the younger ones. He also helps in the production of sacramental hosts in a “makeshift” factory. He is part of the scout group, plays soccer, and is learning to play the bagpipes. The violence and death all around have not shaken his faith, but have, he says, strengthened it.

“My faith is flourishing amidst the challenges of war, growing day by day through daily rosary prayers, reading the life stories of saints, and, most importantly, meditating every Sunday in front of the body of Christ. Jesus, being the source of my faith, is the foundation on which I place all my trust,” he said.

Abu Dawod said he has also enriched his vocation by working as a volunteer at Mother Teresa’s charity within the parish, serving children with disabilities and those in need who live there.

“I initiated writing a diary during my service, and through this journey I have witnessed improvement in my spirituality, which is of utmost importance,” he said.

During these very difficult months, Abu Dawod has learned that “God always has mercy on us” and “God is with us, he will never abandon us in this difficult situation.”

Christians in Gaza have consistently refused to leave their parish and head to southern Gaza, despite the threat of attacks and bombings. “We are like Noah’s Ark in the days of the flood,” members of the parish have told their pastor, Father Romanelli, who has been unable to return to the parish since the war broke out.

Those words, full of faith and hope, are similar to those of Abu Dawod.

“My Lord Jesus Christ always provides me with hope; he is the source of hope in my life. I stand as a sign of hope, enduring the challenges, difficulties, and pain during this perilous time of war,” he said.

Even now in Gaza, as food and water become increasingly scarce and hygiene conditions are at their limit, where many have died and even more struggle psychologically, this young man speaks words of faith and hope: “God has provided abundant and blessed gifts without any limits. He continues to supply us with the necessities that sustain our lives.”

“I’ve learned to be more patient, especially in the things I ask of God, recognizing that he has a plan for me and for the good things that will come my way. I have to wait for his glorious will to unfold,” he shared. “I’ve also learned to prioritize giving love rather than seeking to be loved, understanding that love is the key to spreading peace in the world — to love without limits.”

Now in the Lenten season, Abu Dawod said, “I am currently experiencing Lent in a different way than any other year before. I am praying more, reciting the holy rosary and attending holy Mass. I am fasting more, refraining from consuming things I used to enjoy, and extending forgiveness to others as this season calls for reconciliation.”

Even the word “resurrection,” seen from Gaza and amid the midst of war, has taken on a new meaning.

“It signifies that we are the children of God, not his slaves. It underscores his boundless love for us, surpassing any other,” Abu Dawod said. “He sent his only Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, who triumphed over the devil and all the evil spirits in the world, winning over darkness and death.”

Abu Dawod has chosen to dedicate his time right now to serving Jesus as he prepares for Easter.

“I am purifying my heart, striving to remove any sins within it, all in anticipation of meeting King Jesus during the great feast of Easter. This feast serves as a poignant reminder of how Jesus sacrificed himself on the holy cross for the forgiveness of our sins. Through his glorious resurrection on the third day, he shattered the bonds of death.”

In the Holy Land, the very land where Jesus died and was resurrected, Abu Dawod prays for peace.

“We beseech God for peace, the same peace spread throughout the world at the time of Jesus’ resurrection,” he said. “My fervent prayers are dedicated to justice and the establishment of lasting peace in the Holy Land, particularly in our city of Gaza.”

Aadhaar News for NRIs and OCIs! India Simplifies Rules and Introduces Specific Forms – Indianeagle.com

Aadhaar News for NRIs and OCIs! India Simplifies Rules and Introduces Specific Forms – Indianeagle.com

Now NRIs and OCI cardholders are eligible to obtain an Aadhaar Card given they fulfil certain criteria. The government of India has brought new Aadhaar rules to make it easier and simpler for them. Hence, Non-Resident Indians and Overseas Citizens of India are required to use specified forms to enroll for an Aadhaar Card. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced separate forms for non-resident Indians under the Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) Amendment Regulations, 2024 to eliminate confusion with resident Indians.

First things first, is it mandatory for NRIs to have an Aadhaar Card? Well, all overseas Indians holding an Indian passport are eligible for the Aadhar program, but applying for the 12-digit Aadhar ID is an individual choice as far as non-residents are concerned. It must be noted that they need a valid identity proof issued by the Indian Government such as Aadhaar to make any financial transactions in the country.

Aadhaar news for NRIs, how OCI cardholders apply for Aadhaar, new Aadhaar forms for overseas Indians

As an NRI, if you seek Aadhaar for yourself or your minor children, you can apply any time you travel back to your homeland. You can visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra (service center) to complete the registration and biometric verification process. Your valid Indian passport is a sufficient proof of identity (in fact the only accepted ID proof) for Aadhaar enrolment. However, a birth certificate is a must for applicants born on or after October 1, 2023, as per India’s new Aadhaar rules for NRIs.

Also, the latest amendment necessitates periodic update of individual information on their Aadhar document. Once every 10 years, Aadhar holders including NRIs must update their current address and other information in the centralized database. You can now do this online (through official website or mobile app) or offline (at an Aadhar enrolment center) as per your convenience.

New Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Forms for NRIs

UIDAI has introduced 9 forms for residents and overseas Indians. The form you need to fill for Aadhar enrolment/update depends on whether your address is in India or outside the country and the age group you fall in.

Form 1 and Form 3 are for applicants (both residents and non-residents) with a valid proof of address in India. Form 1 is the Aadhar enrolment/update form for those above 18 years of age while Form 3 is for enrolling children aged between 5 and 18 years.

Form 2 and Form 4 are specifically introduced for NRIs who apply for Aadhar enrolment/update with an address proof outside of India. Form 2 is applicable for NRI adults and Form 4 is for NRI children aged between 5 and 18 years.

You can also enroll children below 5 years and for this, you need to access separate forms – Form 5 (if the address is in India) and Form 6 (if the address is outside India).

Aadhaar Forms for OCI Cardholders

Earlier, Overseas Citizens of India were not eligible for an Aadhaar Card. After the government clarified that Aadhaar does not certify one’s citizenship, OCIs have been added to the categories of overseas Indians eligible for Aadhaar. However, there is a condition. Minimum 182 days of stay in India in a calendar year is compulsory for OCI cardholders to apply for an Aadhaar Card.

Applicants above 18 years, among OCI cardholders, should use Form 7 for Aadhaar enrolment. Form 8 is for OCI cardholders under 18 years. Their application without a valid email ID will be rejected.

And during the enrolment process, you must not fail to provide your email address. It must be noted that UIDAI doesn’t support international numbers and thus you wouldn’t receive any SMS/text notification regarding your Aadhar if you provide a non-Indian phone number.

“Work with US”: Website to apply for a job at the Vatican

“Work with US”: Website to apply for a job at the Vatican

The Vatican Secretariat for the Economy launches a new webpage to accept job applications for laypeople who wish to apply for vacant positions at the Holy See.

By Vatican News – 24 October 2023,

“Work with Us” is a title that says it all. Up to now, lay staff to be hired at various levels of the Holy See were selected based on available CVs (curriculum vitae). From now on, it will be possible to directly apply for vacant or soon-to-be vacant positions.

This is the main innovation of the new website of the Secretariat for the Economy, led by the Prefect, Maximino Caballero Ledo, which came online on Tuesday.

Vatican personnel and reform

As the Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy explains, “A central theme in the economic reform concerns personnel, which, as always, is one of the most complex reforms to implement. This is because to implement the reform and carry out the mission of the Holy See, we need people with the appropriate competence, motivation, and, above all, an ethical sense.”

“How can one work at the Holy See? What positions are available?”

To answer these questions, says Luis Herrera, the Director of Human Resources of the Holy See, “it will now be possible to do so publicly through the ‘Work with Us’ section of the website dedicated to this purpose. All information about vacant positions and the required candidate qualifications will be published here. Anyone interested will be able to submit their application through the website.”

Simplifying application process

In this way, as noted by the Secretariat for the Economy, it will be possible to reach everyone, especially those interested, who can immediately learn about available positions, thereby promoting the selection of personnel genuinely interested in that specific role.

“It often happens,” says Mr. Herrera, “that Dicasteries and offices request staff with particular specializations, such as linguistic or technical skills, which are not easy to find. Thanks to the new website, communication between supply and demand will be facilitated.”

However, it will also be possible to submit your CV through the website without connecting it to a specific position, while waiting for a suitable one to become available.

“Work with Us” is a section dedicated to lay staff interested in working at the Holy See and is aimed at candidates external to the Vatican.

Internal mobility

At the same time, the Secretariat for the Economy is also working to promote internal mobility, so when a position becomes vacant, the notice will also be conveyed through the Employee Portal to check if there are people already part of the Holy See’s staff who are interested.

The new website of the Secretariat for the Economy, in addition to information on the functions and decision-making processes of the Dicastery, also transparently presents the rules governing control and supervision in economic and financial matters, as well as those for oversight and supervision in administrative matters.

For example, the Office of Procurement Regulations interprets and applies the “Rules on transparency, control and competition in the procedures for awarding public contracts of the Holy See and Vatican City State,” adopted in May 2020.

The website is available here.

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