January 12, 2024

Province Assembly Preparation Committee, 28-29, Dec 2023 : Frs. Parthasarathi, (Convenor), Arul Henry William, Dominic, Jacob, Richard Hiruthyaraj John, Schs. Zenith Lawrance and Hansel.

On December 28 & 29, 2023 as the curtain came down on the fourth year of the installation of the Jesuit Chennai Province, the stage was set ablaze at Loyola College, Chennai for the 4th Province Assembly. It was a vibrant celebration of faith, a toast to our hard work in the vineyard of the Lord, and a sneak peek into the exhilarating future that awaits us.

In sync with the province’s invitation for the Year of Youth, the assembly’s compass was guided by the pulsating theme ‘,NaRtpd; topapy;! ,isNahNuhL ,af;fkhf!!.’ Picture this: 135 spirited members of the province, young and old, assembled, infusing the gathering with an unparalleled exuberance.

The inaugural day of the assembly dawned with the sacred touch of the Thanksgiving Eucharist at the Christ the King Church, where Fr. Ilanko Xavier, the Socius extended a warm embrace of welcome. The newly ordained priests (2022), Frs. Alexander Gnanapragasam, Anto Arputha Raja, Jeyaseelan Saminathan and Manojkumar Tharmam of the Province graced the concelebrated Mass. Fr. Alexander G., the homilist struck a chord with the group, delving deep into the scene of Emmaus disciples encountering Jesus, and issued a clarion call for the province to draw closer to the youth, illuminate their paths, and walk alongside them in their odyssey.

With heart and mind open wide Fr. Jebamalai Irudayaraj, the Provincial extended a gracious welcome, while Fr. Parthasarthi N., the Convenor, unravelled the dynamics of the Assembly. The atmosphere crackled with energy in the first session as Mr. Indrakumar Theradi, a young Political Analyst, took the stage. His electrifying presentation on the present democratic situation in India urged the gathering to take on the responsibility of educating the youth by sowing the democratic values.

The second session was a kaleidoscope of experiences, and the testimonies of three vibrant lay youths, including a transperson (Ms. Leogreta – Alumna of Loyola College, Vettavalam, Lawrence Praveen – Parishioner, Harur and Rhea Varghese- Loyola College Chennai), and two scholastics (Samroy Terrence – Regent and Frankly – Theology Studies) who stole the show, sharing their gripping experiences within the province and their hopeful expectations for the future mission.

Following a hearty lunch break that refuelled the spirits, the afternoon session commenced with the Director of Chevvanam Publications, Fr. Pugazhendhi’s rapid and engaging presentation of 11 captivating books, a literary tapestry woven by six of our province men – Frs. Amaladass Anand, Joe Arun, Philip Kumar, Pugazhendhi M., Parthasarathy N., Velankanni A. Fr. Provincial released these literary gems and bestowed well-deserved encomiums upon their authors. The Jubilarians received the first copies. He also introduced the province publications, with a special mention of its groundbreaking publication of DSS.

Then, the assembly was divided into thirteen groups for a Spiritual Conversation, with the task to discuss and propose action plans based on two pivotal questions that emerged from the morning sessions. The assembly reconvened after tea break with the collated minutes from the spiritual conversations under the able moderation of Fr. Arockiasamy A., the roadmap for the future unfolded through lively discussions, paving the way for collective action.

The focus then shifted to the PDD Fr. Vasanthakumar I. who strategically introduced the VIN Project (Value Inspired Nurturing), an ambitious venture set to shape the future of fund-raising for the missions. The evening session culminated on a sublime note with a graceful prayer service led by the Arulagam Community, Harur.

Following a fellowship meal, the youthful Scholastics took centre stage for a fun-filled variety programme, weaving together dances, soulful singing, and an overall evening of sheer thrill and entertainment.

On the radiant dawn of the assembly’s second day, the spotlight shone brightly on the jubilee celebration and review of the Province. We had the Jubilee Mass led by Fr. Provincial and concelebrated by the Jubilarians with the Provincial presiding and homily by Fr. Albert William at the hallowed Christ the King Church.

The assembly reconvened at the LS Hall, amidst the ambiance of reverence and festivity for the Jubilarians. The congratulatory letters from Fr. General for the two Golden Jubilarians in S.J. were read by Fr. Socius. Fr. Provincial, along with Superiors and Scholastics, adorned the Jubilarians with shawls, mementoes, and bouquets, symbolizing the Province’s deep-seated appreciation for their unwavering commitment. Fr. Boniface Jeyaraj, representing the Jubilarians, expressed his sentiments of gratitude in his own distinctively humorous style.

The assembly shifted gears from the jubilant atmosphere to a more contemplative tone, as the Provincial took centre stage for his address. Divided into two distinctive categories, his speech gracefully oscillated between acknowledgement and appreciation, a testament to the Province’s commendable achievements in the past year, and Executions and Expectations for ensuing future. The concept of owning the province resonated in his address, urging every member to play an active role in shaping the collective
destiny.

In the final moments of the assembly, it was time to gather the fruits of collective efforts and express gratitude to all who had played a pivotal role in the success of this memorable event. Fr. Socius, with genuine warmth, extended heartfelt thanks, individually acknowledging, and appreciating each person. As the assembly reached its crescendo, Fr. Basil Xavier (MDU) guided the gathering into a reflective mode. Participants were encouraged to gather takeaway points, distilling the essence of the deliberations from these impactful days.

The 4th Assembly was not just a gathering; it was a medley of spirited exchanges, jubilant celebrations, and resourceful reflections orchestrated by the Jesuit Chennai Province’s dedicated souls. As the curtains were drawn on the Assembly, it left a lingering resonance of the Province’s unwavering commitment to the youth, the future of our democracy, and the hopeful journey ahead.

Richard Hiruthyaraj John