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News From Patnam
Mr. Kingwin Rayen passed away on Jan 30Jan31 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo With deep sorrow we inform the news of the death of Mr. Kingwin Rayen, (Husband of Rosy Fernando, D/O Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Fernando) S/O Mrs. Denis Rayen and late Mr. Jerome Villavarayer, aged 54, in a tragic road accident on Monday, 30th January. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, 1st February at 4AM in St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam. We convey our deep sympathies to his wife, children and family members. May his soul rest in peace.
Mr. Amal P.Rayer passed away on Oct 13Oct 14 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Mr. Amal P. Rayer, H/O Mrs. Keru and F/O Mr. Paul P. Rayer, passed away on Oct 13 and the funeral is to take place on Oct 15 after 4pm funeral mass. We pray for the repose of the soul of Mr. Amal P. Rayer.
A note of gratitudeSep 14, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo My dear Pattanathaars, Greetings and best wishes to one and all of you. I take this opportunity to let you know that the Quasquicentennial of St. Thomas Church was a grand success. This grand success was due to each and every one of you who contributed for the renovation of our church and for the conduct of the celebration. Pattanam had never before seen such a crowd of relatives and friends from far and near who participated in the church programs and witnessed all the events with enthusiasm. All appreciated the work done in our church. The success in all the events was due to the generous contribution of one and all Pattanathaars. I thank one and all of you who helped us achieve this great task. The major work has been completed and we are in the process of completing the rest of the work which will be completed very soon. The links for recorded live telecast of the events of August 14^th, 15^th and 16^th is given below. The duration will be three hours and a half. VESPERS -ST. THOMAS CHURCH VIRAPANDIANPATNAM QUASQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 14TH AUG 2011 ST. THOMAS CHURCH VIRAPANDIANPATNAM QUASQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION (1886-2011) 15TH AUG 2011 Thank you once again dear Pattanathaars for helping us to complete this great task. May St. Thomas, our dear patron saint bless and protect one and all . Thank you. Yours affectionately, Ladislaus Rodrigo.
St. Thomas Church 125th Year Anniversary - InvitationJul 17, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Dear Pattanathaars, Herewith I attach the invitation for the celebration of the 125th year of St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam. Kindly accept this as a personal invitation. It has been announced in the church to give the postal addresses of relatives who reside abroad. For the addresses received we shall be posting invitations individually. We expect your presence and prayers for the Quasquicentennial. click here for invitation - Front Page click here for invitation - Back Page Thank you, Yours affectionately, Ladislaus Rodrigo.
St. Thomas Church renovation work nearing completionJun 21, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Dear Pattanathaars, By the grace of Almighty God and our Patron, St. Thomas and your generosity, St. Thomas Church renovation work is nearing completion. The photos will show you the matt finish polished wood work at the Altars, at the Sepulchre and Sermon Stand. Red colored granite is laid on the altar floor and steps while white marbonite is being paved on the floor of the church. The exterior walls of the church have got the first coating of primer while the interior walls have been coated with white emulsion Berger paint. The windows are being fixed. As the base of the church walls have been sand blasted, they are now covered to prevent paint falling on them. The grotto is also getting a facelift. We hope and pray that all other plans will be completed in due time. Thank you. Your generosity has helped us to preserve the beautiful church built by our ancestors 125 years ago. Click here for photos Ladislaus Rodrigo.
St. Antony's FeastJun 16, 2011 / News Source: Christy Rayen St. Antony's feast mass was celebrated on 13th June, at 6.30 pm by seven priests. Also, the builder Mr. Arun Mascrenhas and Sculptor Mr. Manuel Fernando of Kulasekerapatnam were honored with shawls. A large gathering was present for the mass and, after the mass was over, Holy Bun and High tea items in a box, were served to the public. (click here to view photos) Chief guest was Fr. S.D Selvaraj, V.F., and six other priests. Fr.G.Joseph, our parish priest. Fr. Stephen Gomez, Trustee of Valampudirnatham. Fr. Roosevalt, Arulandar College, Procuratoe. Fr. Bright Matchado, parish priest of Vellapatti. Fr. Arokiaraj, St Joseph's Orphanage, asst. Fr. Amulraj, asst parish priest of VPT.
Mr. Merwyn Rayen passed awayJun 10, 2011 / News Source: Jenson Fernando Mr.Merwyn Rayen h/o Mrs.Greetwin residing in Parel , Mumbai expired on 5th June. Funeral held on 8thJune . Relatives from Pattanam, Chennai and Mumbai attended the last rites. He had gone to Vizak to sign in for voyage .It is said that while trying to climb the rope ladder of the ship he met with an accident. May his soul rest in peace! _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Church work - painting of statues in progressMay 18, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Dear Pattanathaars, Love and greetings to one and all of you. This is just to share with you news of the Church work that is in progress. All the statues in the Church excluding the Stations of the Cross, (which were painted recently), are being painted. “Our Lady of Rosary” pedestal, “Jesus in the sepulcher” pedestal and “St. Thomas” pedestal are to be polished. The work is undertaken by Mr. Pio of Tuticorin. It costs more than Rs. 1.5lakhs. The work is expected to be completed in a month. The photos are attached. Ladislaus Rodrigo. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Work in progress in the main and side altarsApr 23, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo ST. THOMAS CHURCH RENOVATION - WORK IN PROGRESS IN THE MAIN AND SIDE ALTARS. Dear All, A close look at the photos of the Altars, reveal the holes and damage caused by termites. The repairs and treatment are in session. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A request for early contributionApr 08, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo A REQUEST FOR EARLY CONTRIBUTION. ________________________________ Dear All, Greetings. We sincerely thank our dear Pattanathaars all over the world for their generous contribution and for encouraging us to go forward. It gives us great pleasure to let you know that we have received nearly 70% of the revised budget for the renovation of St. Thomas Church. The renovation work is in progress with the confidence that we will receive the required funds soon. We hereby request those who are yet to contribute to please send us the funds by April end so that we can be assured to complete the renovation. May God bless one and all. _______________________________________________________________________________________ FINANCE COMMITTEE. Flavian P.Rayen, Frederick Mascrenhas, Manuel P.Rayen, Winiston Morais, Regibert Fernando, Sridhar Rodrigo, Lindus Fernando, Deons Fernando, Irudayam Fernando,Regis Rayen,Mala Fides Fernando,Rajam Pinto. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Remsi Victoria expired on April 8Apr 07, 2011 / News Source: Jenson Fernando Mr. Remsi Victoria (Ex Seaman) expired on 8th & funerals to be held on 10th morning at Patnam. May his soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
First Holy Communion and ConfirmationApr 07, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo In connection with the Quasquicentennial of St. Thomas Church in August 2011, it has been announced by our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. G.Joseph, that Confirmation will take place on August 14th, 2011. Only children who have completed 14 years of age are eligible to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. The classes for children who are to receive Confirmation will be held for 10 days from May 1st, 2011. There will be a one day session for the parents. Children belonging to other parishes will have to bring a letter from their respective Parish Priests, stating that the children have been prepared for Confirmation. First Holy Communion will take place on Aungust 15,2011 during the Jubilee Mass. Source:-Ladislaus Rodrigo. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Renovation of St. Thomas ChurchApr 07, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Work order already issued and work done. -------------------------------------------------------- 1. 100ftX50 ft Pandal outside the Church - Rs.35,000.00 2. Scaffolding inside the Church – Rs.80,000.00 Both given to Mr. J.Mahalingam, Shanmugapuram, Virapandianpatnam. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Work order issued and work in progress. WORK INSIDE THE CHURCH. 1.Water proof treatment inside the Church. Approximate area 45,000sq.ft.XRs.8/-- Rs.3,60,000.00 2. Patch work and filling inside the Church – Approximate area –7000 sq.ft.XRs.25/- Rs.1,75,000.00 Actual measured area may differ for billing . Work given to “Unique Speciality Systems, Bangalore.” CARPENTRY WORK. 12 windows having the dimension 9ftX4ft and 2 windows 4ftX3ft have to be replaced and new windows are to be fixed. The windows are to be newly designed as follows:- Out of 11 windows having a height of 9 ft.the top portion of the window measuring 3.5ft area will be of stained glass work. Remaining area will be filled with glass louvers. The frame will be of teak wood. Teak wood purchased for new windows at Balaji Timber Depot, Arumaganeri Costing Rs.3,60,000.00 Labor for carpentry -- Rs. 52,000.00 Carpentry is to be done by Mr. Dhandapani of Tuticorin. Cost of stained glass work -- Rs. 2,47,000.00 Stained glass work order is given to Angel’s Art glass mirrors, Virapandianpatnam. ___________________________________________________________________ TOWER CLOCK Charges for overhauling and making the clock work exclusive of spare parts Rs. 20,000.00 Work given to Mr. Abraham of Nazareth. PAINTING OF STATUES. Number of statues 21. Cost of painting -- Rs.84,000.00 Work given to Michael Arts, Tuticorin. As and when work order is issued for other works, we shall post in the websites. CHURCH RENOVATION COMMITTEE. 1. Rev. Fr. Roosevelt 2. Churchill Eugenius Fernando.3. Peyton V.Rayen. 4. Aspan V.Rayen. 5. Loid A.Kattar. 6. Aloy P.Rayen. 7. Jude Silveira. 8. Ramberty V.Rayen.9. Nixon Fernando. News Source:- Ladislaus Rodrigo. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Smt. Sofia V Rahee passed awayMar21, 2011 / News Source: Jenson Fernando Smt.Sofia V Rahee ( D/O Late Shri. Thobiyas V Rayer & W/O Late Shri Selton V Rayer ) expired this evening at Patnam. May her soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Church all set for renovation work for QQC Mar17, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam is all set for the renovation work for the QQC. The services are held from the 14th March, 2011, in the stage of the Church campus. A temporary Altar is arranged on the stage. In front of the stage, a pandal- 100ftX50 ft has been erected. The pews have been moved from the church into this area. Renovation has started on the day of St. Joseph- Wednesday, 16th March with a prayer by the Parish Priest, Rev. Father G.Joseph. ALTAR RENOVATION In the 3 Altars, the following work is taking place. 1. Removing the old paint from the wooden altars and ornamental works without spoiling the existing work. 2. After cleaning the entire area, anti termite treatment/ coating is to be given to all the wooden works to avoid deterioration. 3. Applying good quality lemon matt polish and to bring back the original rich appearance. This work is undertaken by P.R.S. Timbers of Nagercoil and the cost is estimated to be Rs. 5,00,000/- CHURCH TERRACE WATER PROOFING The church dome water proofing on the terrace is being done on a seven layer protection system. Before that, the following work is being done. Wire brushing the surface for removal of dirt, grease etc. Plastering the damaged portions with integral water proofing compound. Cracks and holes filling bituminous epoxy based elastomeric crack filler. 1. First Layer: One coat of modified epoxy primer application by spraying machine. 2.Second Layer: Second coat of modified epoxyprimer application. 3.Third Layer: One coat of polymeric Bitumen water proof elastomeric application by brush. 4.Fourth Layer: Fixing one layer of Geo fabric malt for reinforcement. 5. Fifth Layer: Second coat of polymeric bitumen based water proof elastomeric. 6. Sixth Layer: Fixing one layer of imported light weight App modified membrane 4mm thick waterproofing matting fixing by Thermal Fusion Method. 7.Seventh Layer: Final coat of UV, resistant and reflective aluminium coating application by brush. This work is estimated to cost Rs 12.5 lakhs and is undertaken by “Unique speciality systems” of Bangalore. As and when the other repairs start I shall keep you informed. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
St. Thomas Church Renovation Feb27, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo Renovation of St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam, starts on 14th March,2011. From 14th March, 2011 till 5th August,2011, the Church will remain closed in view of the renovation work. All religious events, Sacraments etc during this period will take place in the Church campus. The services will also take place in the chapels in Patnam as per wish of the families. This is only a temporary arrangement until the church is reopened. On 6th August, 2011, the blessing of the renovated church takes place followed by flag hoisting for the quasquicentennial. On 14th August,2011, confirmation takes place in Patnam after a gap of 7 years. Group First Holy Communion takes place on August 15th,2011, on the day of the Quasquicentennial. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A great chance for Pattanathars to express their passion for Patnam Feb26, 2011 / News Source: Ladislaus Rodrigo In commemoration of the 125th year Jubilee celebration of St. Thomas Church on 15th August 2011, we bring out a souvenir. We request your contribution to it on any of the following topics:- -- Architectural marvel of our Church. -- Short sketch on the Chapels, grotto etc built by our ancestors. -- Evangelisation by St.Thomas, St. Francis Xavier along the coromandal coast. -- Pastoral service by Fr. Henry Henricus. -- Uniqueness of Parathavars. -- Ascension of Patnam- spiritualism, education, economy, social harmony etc. -- Targets/goals to be achieved- modern opperandi.Tips to youngsters. -- Memoirs on by-gone parish priests and church personnel. Guidelines:- -- Be specific, topic-centered, authentic and your write–up palatable to read. -- Submission of articles by 15-04-2011. Kindly send your articles etc(in English or Tamil) to the email id of Berthew V.Rayen (jjberthew1948@yahoo.co.in). Please note that selection or omission rests with the committee. Jubilee Souvenir Committee. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Elementary school teacher Thirumathi Rajareegam passed away Feb17, 2011 / News Source: Jenson Fernando Patnam elementary school ex-teacher Thirumathi.Rajereegam (W/O Artist. S.S.Pitchai Fernando) passed away yesterday at Arumugeneri & funerals to be held today. May her soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thiru Gyanam P Rayen expired on 14-Feb-2011 Feb14, 2011 / News Source: Jenson Fernando Thiru.Gyanam P Rayen (LIC Manager & S/O Late Thiru.Leon P Rayer) expired on Monday, February 14 2011 in Chennai. Funeral is to be held on Wednesday, February 16 2011 in Patnam. May his soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Best Teacher Award!! Congratulations to Mrs. Dora Rodriguez!! Dec27 / News Source: Gunald Kattar Mrs. Dora Rodriguez is daughter of late Mr. Franaceis Fernando and Mrs.Nolosco Fernando, and wife of Ashok Rodriguez (Railway basket ball player). Aloha India, leader and pioneer in advanced Mental Arithmetic programs has constituted the award to honor the school Maths Teaching Community at the Tamil Nadu State level under the Chairmanship of K. Kumaran from the year 2006. The award was handed at a grand function by Shri. K. Balachander, renowned film director in Chennai. Ten Maths teachers were awarded the ALOHA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MATH TEACHING. Mrs. Dora Rodriguez has also written mathematics books for standard V,VI and IX revised matriculation syllabus that is still in circulation. A proud moment for Patnam. Thank you, Mrs. Dora Rodriguez, for making us proud. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Smt. Reeta P Rahee (W/O Late Shri. Patrick Peeris) , passed away on 02 - 11 - 2010 Nov03 / News Source: Jenson Fernando. Smt.Reeta P Rahee (W/O Late Shri.Patrick Peeris, former merchant of Colombo & M/O Majella & Mestikka) expired on 2^nd November & funeral took place on 3^rd November, at VP Patnam. We convey our deep sympathies to the children and family members. May her soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Glory Restored to a Prominent Heritage Building in Patnam: Stella Maris Aug 26 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar The Heritage Building , Stella Maris, built by Mr.T.P.Soosey A.Kattar and Mrs. Maria Soosey Rodrigo, after renovation is being blessed on the 28th October, 2010 , followed by the opening and Housewarming. We wish the function a grand success. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ordination of a Patnam Native Oct 6 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar The Priestly Ordination of Rev. Father Justin Prabhu, Society of Jesus, takes place in Trichy on Saturday, October 9^th, 2010. Rev. Fr. Justin Prabhu’s first Holy Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatanam on Sunday, 10^th October, evening at 5pm. Rev. Fr. Justin Prabhu,( a student of Lalitha A.Kattar), is the son of Mr. M.Antonysamy,( Classmate of Ladislaus Rodrigo,) and Mrs. Louis Leela. He was born in Virapandianpatnam on 11-03-1976. He pursued his education in primary school in St. Mary’s Elementary School ,Virapandianpatnam, and Higher Secondary in St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Virapandianpatnam. He entered the novitiate at Beschi College, Dindigul, did his undergraduate in Language and Literature at St. Joseph’s College, Trichy, Philosophy in Pune, Regency in Zimbabwe along with Teaching, Masters in Visual Communication in Loyola College, Chennai, Bachelor of Divinity in London. After the ordination, he is leaving for Columbia to study Licentiate in Theology. We wish you dear Father Justin Prabhu, all the best in your endeavor and good health. Personal Profile: Fr Justin Prabhu SJ Father’s Name: M. Antonysamy Mother’s Name: A.Louis Leela Hometown: Virapandianpatnam, Tuticorin. 1976 : Born on the 11^th March 1976 at Virapandianpatanam, Tuticorin. Fishery Coast of St Francis Xavier. 1981-1993 : Primary to Higher Secondary School, St Thomas HSS, hometown. 1994 : On the 19^th entered Novitaite: Beschi College, Dindigul, Jesuit Madurai Province. 1996 : On the 21^st June took first vows at the Shrine of St John De Britto in Oriyoor (where he was beheaded). 2000 : began University, Undergraduate degree in Language and literature: St Joseph’s College, Trichy: 97-2000 2000-2002 : Philosophy, Jnana Deepa Vidthyapeeth in Pune. 2002-2004 : Regency in Harare at St Ignatius College, Zimbabwe (teaching and housemaster for 3&4 form students) 2004-06 : Masters in Visual Communication, Loyola College, Chennai, (Assisted hostel, intern at Southern Spice Television) 2007-2010 :Bachelor in Divinity,(BD) Heythrop College, London, UK 2010, 9^th October will be ordained to Priesthood at Trichy. 10 Oct 2010 First Mass at 5pm, Virapandianpatnam. After Priestly ordination: Leaving for Colombia to study Licentiate in Theology at the Pontifical University of Javiriana, Bogota, Colombia, South America. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
27th Sub - Junior State Championship in Patnam Sep 3 / News Source: F. Ladislaus Rodrigo 27th Sub - Junior State Championship for Vellore Cup is to be held from 28th September to Saturday 3rd October at Virapandianpatnam, Tiruchendur, Thoothukudi district Tamilnadu. Tamilnadu Football Association granted permission to organsie the 27th Sub Junior State Championship Football tournament for Tuticorin District Football Association. Fortunately, for the first time our club Patanam Ilaignar Mantram, Virpandianpatanam has been chosen to conduct the 27th Sub Junior State Championship Football tournament as our village has a rich heritage of producing former Indian players like Orlando P. Rayen, Xavier Peeris, a former member of Indian Railway team, Tamilnadu State players and many University players and former National Athlete, Alphonse Rayen. Patanam Illaignar Mantram completes 50 years this year 2010, It is our honour to host the tournament. Twenty Eight District Football Association in Tamilnadu will participate in this tournament. Tournament committee. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Darius Fernando, H/O Mrs. Anaclete P.Rayen, passed away on 22-08-2010 Aug 22 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Mr. Darius Fernando, H/O Mrs. Anaclete P.Rayen, passed away on 22-08-2010. The funeral service takes place at Virapandianpatnam on 23rd August at 4pm. We convey our deep sympathies to his wife, children and family members. May his soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mrs. Angeline P.Rayee, W/O Late Mr. Manuel V.Rayen passed away Jul 19 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Mrs. Angeline P.Rayee, W/O Late Mr. Manuel V.Rayen passed away on Saturday, 17th July, 2010. The funeral took place on 18th July after a requem Mass at 3.30 pm. We convey our deep sympathies to the family members. May her soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mrs. Victorammal V.Rayee, (W/O Mr. Romanus Victoria) passed away Jul 17 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Mrs. Victorammal V.Rayee, (W/O Mr. Romanus Victoria), retired teacher of St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, passed away in her residence at Virapandianpatnam, after a brief illness on Saturday, 17th July. The funeral services will take place on Monday, 19th July. We convey our deep sympathies to the family members. May her soul rest in peace. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Flag Hoisting for the Feast of the Confraternity of the Sacred Heart Jul 3 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar The Flag Hoisting for the Feast of the Sacred Heart took place in the venue of St.Thomas Church, after a solemn High Mass, concelebrated by the former Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Cedric Peeris and the Parish Priest Rev.Fr. G.Joseph and the Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Rajan. It was attended by a large number of people and school children. As per schedule every evening at 6.30 pm after Rosary and singing of the Litany to the Sacred Heart , reflections are made on the topics mentioned in the programme and it concludes with the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Feast of St. Peter and Paul in Patnam Jun 29 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar A small chapel on the main road in St. John Street , Virapandianpatnam, is dedicated to St. Peter and Paul. The church was built by S.O. Rodrigo group and till today maintained by them. In 2007, the church was completely renovated, R.C.C. roof work was done and marbonite tiles were laid and the windows were redone and the Church had a grand look. This year, thanks to the family members and close relatives, who again contributed for this cause. The 2 walls were replastered upto 6 feet and then paved with ceramic tiles and step tiles were laid. On the roof of the portico tiles were laid to avoid the seeping rain water. About Rs.85,000/- were spent for this cause. This was contributed by 9 family members and the chapel has a grand look. Gold and Silver plated Chalice, Ciborium and Cruet worth Rs.6,500/- were gifted at the Offertory by one family member. The Vespers for the Feast of St. Peter and Paul took place on 28th June at 6.30 pm followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The feast Mass was at 5.15 in the same chapel, concelebrated by the Parish Priest Rev. Father G.Joseph and the assistant Parish Priest Rev.Father Rajan. In his homily the Priest explained how the Church celebrates the Feast of the 2 saints together who are the pillars of the Church. This is the only feast celebrated for 2 saints together. A large number of people attended the services. The Parish Priest appreciated and thanked the family members for the work and requested the public to keep the Church clean and tidy. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
St. Anthony's Feast in Patnam Jun 12 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar A small shrine in Virapandianpatnam, dedicated to St. Antony was built by the efforts of Late Mr. Lovelyn P.Rayen and the family of Late Mr. Pancras P.Rayer. The feast of St. Antony is celebrated every year by the family members. The feast falls on June 13^th. This year being Sunday, the feast Mass took place on Saturday, 12^th June at 6pm. There was a large crowd of people from Patnam. In his homily, the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. G.Joseph, mentioned incidents related to St. Antony. One day while St. Antony was engrossed in prayer, the devil tried to tempt him. But St. Antony was not disturbed. He drew a Cross on the ground and continued to pray. A bright shining light glowed from the Cross which drove away the devil. Till today mothers advise their children to draw crosses on the 4 directions before they sleep and they believe that it will drive away the evil spirits. St. Antony once visited a friend Shattino and he was given a room to rest and pray. The noble noted a light glowing from the room and peeped into it. There he saw Child Jesus resting in the arms of St. Antony and playing with him. When St. Antony noted that he was seen playing with Jesus, he requested the noble not to reveal this to any one until his death. After Mass, boxes of bun were blessed and it was distributed to all the people and also Novena books to St. Antony were given by the family members. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



A new Parishpriest for St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam May 24 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar After the transfer of Rev.Father Cedric Peeris, Rev.Father G.Joseph took charge as the Parish Priest of Virapandianpatnam. After 5pm Mass on Sunday, 23rd. May, the public gathered on the main road to welcome the new Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. G.Joseph. Before benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, the new Parish Priest was inducted by Rev. Fr. Selvaraj, the Director of St.Joseph's orphanage and the Vicar Foraine of Manapad Vicariate. He read the Bishop's order in Church, handed over the keys to the new Priest and a witness signed the papers. There were about 10 priests present for the function. After Benediction, there was a welcome and felicitation for the new Parish Priest. We wish you all the best. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Wedding of Nigel and Amrita May 19 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Nigel tied the knot with Amrita on Wednesday, May 19 at 10.00 am at St. Jude's Shrine, Tuticorin. Nigel is son of Mr. J.A. Berchmans Miranda and Mrs. Ophella Miranda. Amrita is daughter of Mr. Benjamin Rodrigo and Mrs. Mira Ben Rodrigo. The wedding reception of Nigel and Amrita, (S/O Mirandas and D/O Rodrigos ) by the groom's side took place at Sri Krishna Mahal Kalyana Mandapam at Nagercoil on Saturday, 22nd May at 5.30 pm. All the staff of Holy Cross College and several VIPs from Nagercoil attended the function. Ben, Mira and Children, Viji Sheela and Children, Rahini, Anita, Meera, Jerome and Charlette, Ladislaus Rodrigo and Lalitha A.Kattar and Aldrin, Yamini and children came from Tuticorin and VPP to Nagercoil to attend the function. Trisha and Alisha sang the prayer song. The chief speaker was Sr. Mesmin, Superior of Holy Cross Convent, Nagercoil. She started with the tales of long ago when there were 3 close friends, Dr. A.Augustine, Mr. Albin A.Kattar and Mr. N.X.Corera, the first 2 were grandparents on the bride's side while the last one was the father of Sr.Mesmine. In 1945, when Mr. N.X.Corera, the flower girl for the wedding was Renee Rayen, the grandma of the bride, she said.She also spoke a lot about Sr.Fatima from that family and an important member in the Holy Cross Sisters Family. After her felicitation all went to the basement where an elite array of dining tables and chairs were arranged for 8 persons to sit at each table. The crowd dispersed after a grand dinner. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Wedding of Manoj Rodrigo and Anusha P Rayen May 16 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Manoj tied the knot with Anusha on Sunday, May 16 at 10.30 am at St. Jude's Shrine, Tuticorin. Manoj is son of Mr. Gilbert Rodrigo and Mrs. Edith A Kattar. Anusha is daughter of Mr. Gregory P Rayen and Mrs. Marjora Fernando. Manoj is a Partner at M/s. J. Thomas Fernando & Co., Chartered Accountants, Tuticorin and Anusha is a Lecturer at Infant Jesus college of Engineering, Tuticorin. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Twelve year old Srilankan born Patnam native stars in BangaloreMay 21 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar CCC Under12 cricketers from Sri Lanka visited Bangalore in April and played 7 matches against Imtuaz Ahamed CA and Macsports and BGS International of Bangalore. Anuj Aloysius was a member of the team. He is the son of Mr. Geoffrey Aloysius and Mrs. Nimmi Aloysius of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Anuj Aloysius won the award for the best bowler with 14 wickets for 161 runs at the rate of 11.50 runs per wicket. Anuj Aloysius is a Sri Lankan born Patnam native. The news was published with the photo of Anuj Aloysius in “The Daily”. Congratulations Anuj!! We are proud of you. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Giles Fernando passed away on May 17,2010May 17 Mr. Giles Fernando, aged 65, left for the better world on May 17, 2010 in Bangalore. Mr. Giles Fernando is husband of Mrs. Cynthia Fernando and son of Mr. Tharthis Fernando and Mrs. Aglin Fernando. The funeral will be in Bangalore on May 18, 2010. Let us pray for the repose of the soul of Mr. Giles Fernando. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


First Anniversary of Mrs. Lima Rose Rodrigo commemoratedMay 9 The first Anniversary of Mrs. Lima Rose Rodrigo, W/O Late Mr. Peter Rodrigo, falls on 12-05-10. The Anniversary Mass was held at St. Thomas Church on Saturday, 8th May at St. Thomas Church, Virapandianpatnam, at 6.30 AM, concelebrated by Rev. Father Gerosin and Rev. Father Germans Rayen . After Mass a cemetry blessing was held. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A proud moment for Patnam: Ordination of Rev. Fr. Pradeesh Akattar April 23 / News Source: Lalitha Akattar Click here for Ordination photos (Thanks to Vasanth Studio for the photos) On 23rd April, 2010, Rev.Fr.Pradeesh A.Kattar, grandson of Late Mr.Bruno & Mrs.Leslie A.Kattar and Mrs. Molly P.R.& Late Mr.Amalraj V.Rayer and son of Mr.Percy A.Kattar & Mrs. Prameela V.Rayer , was ordained as a priest od Tuticorin Diocese by the Bishop of Tuticorin, Rt.Rev. Yvonne Ambrose at St. Thomas Church premises at 5.30pm. The Bishop arrived at 5.30pm and was welcomed by the Sodality members and the village people from the residence of the Parish Priest. The service started at 6pm. The Bishop, Vicar General, Msgr. Oswald V.R, The Chancellor, Rev.Sathianesan, Mannin Mainthergal Rev.Fr.Gerosin A.K., Rev.Fr. Roosevolt, Rev.Fr. Promilton,Rev.Fr. Germans P.R. , the previous Parish Priests of VPP, Rev. Fr. C.Xavier, Rev.Fr.Sahaya Joseph, Rev.Fr.Benson,the previous assistant Parish priests of his period who were instrumental for his priesthood, Rev. Fr. Starwin and other priests , about 50 in number along with the Parish Priest Rev.Fr. Cedric Peeris and Asst PP. Rev.Fr. Joe and about 30 nuns from different congregations were present. The theme of the event was "Yesuvin Anbu Seedanai".He was ordained as the 14th priest of VPP. It was a touching scene when he went to get blessings from his parents who were seated close by. Then the Holy Mass began. The priest thanked all those who guided him and helped him, the teachers in the Elementary School, High School, especially his Catechism teacher, Mr. James Kagoo who was instrumental in his decision, the PP of his time, Rev.Fr.C.Xavier, Rev.Fr.Sahaya Joseph,Rev.Fr.Starwin, VPP priests, Rev.Frs.Gerosine and Promilton, etc. He thanked the German sponsor for his help, the choir members, Rev.Fr.Denis and Mrs. Lalitha A.Kattar. After a colorful dance recital by tiny tots, the people got his blessings. The clergy, sisters and the people were all invited for the dinner the clergy in the priests residence and the public at Carmel Mahal. On 24-4-10, was the priests 1st Holy Mass in the Altar, at St. Thomas Church at 6AM. On 25-04-10, he was felicitated by the village people by the Paravan Nala Peravai and also by others. We wish the new priest all the best in the service of the Lord.