Inauguration of another 'warfare'

"Today you commence another innings in your warfare against sin and ignorance here at St John's Kondadaba," were the words of Fr Karnam Joji Babu, the Vicar General of the archdiocese of Visakhapatnam, who officiated the Holy Mass and the programme at the Inauguration of the academic year 2011-2012 on June 15, 2011. Emphasing the need to own up formation and acquire the necessary tools to help in the warfare, Fr Joji Babu exhorted the students to grow in their Priestly vocation. Quoting often St Cyprian, he challenged the students to eliminate sin rather than get enslaved to it. To this end he recommended fasting, obedience and prayer as the most efficacious means.

Later speaking during the short inaugural session, Fr K.T. Jose, the Rector of the Seminary, welcomed the gathering and highlighted some of the special aspects of this year: the silent but generous presence of Br Behera Sateesh (of the diocese of Srikakulam) as the Regent of the Seminary, the new collaboration with the OCDs through the Seminary being the study house of their students for Philosophy and BA. Fr KT Jose specially welcomed the 9 students and the two Priests who would be part of the academic life of the Seminary while staying at Pendurthi and the other 23 first year students.

Fr Wilson Jose, the Principal presented the annual report and recalled to mind the significant events of the previous academic year using text and photos. Six students were awarded prizes for proficiency in their Philosophical studies last year. From the first year batch it was K. Thomas, K. Tony and T. Vijay while from the second years it was A. Syam, P. Chaitanya and M. Dileep who stood first, second and third respectively in their own classes. Besides this there was also the lighting of the lamp and a song lead by Br M. Naresh and his group. The vote of thanks was proposed by Br Kamalesh.

The total number of students this year is 84 (73 diocesans and 2 MSFS resident at SJRS, Kondadaba and 9 OCDs who would be day scholars for Philosophy and BA from Pedurthi). As of now, there are four on the staff: Fr KT Jose (Rector), Fr Wilson Jose (Vice-Rector and Principal), Br Vincent Castilino (Dean and Administrator) and Br Behera Sateesh (Regent).

Report filed by Br K. Tony (II Course)