St. Thomas Forane Church
Jalahalli, Banagalore, Karnataka 560 013
Advent Season – 2024: A Time of Spiritual Preparation and Joyful Celebration
The Advent season was marked by a vibrant mix of spiritual and community activities as our parish prepared to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. From December 1st onwards, in addition to the regular 6:15 AM Holy Qurbana, evening Holy Qurbanas were celebrated daily, providing more opportunities for spiritual reflection. The sacrament of confession was made available after each Holy Qurbana, culminating in extended confession hours on December 21st Dec 2024.
Christmas Vigil Celebration
The Christmas Vigil Holy Qurbana on December 24, 2023, at 9:00 PM was a highlight of the season. The main celebrant was Fr. Xavier Manavath, CMF, Claretian House Superior, and Episcopal Vicar of the Religious. Fr. Thomas Thennadyil, CMF, Principal of St. Claret College, delivered an inspiring message that touched the hearts of all attendees.
Following the Holy Qurbana, prizes were presented to the children who faithfully attended the Holy Qurbana throughout the 25 days of Advent. In addition, the winners of the Crib Competition, Bible Writing contest, and the Crib Making Team—led by Manoj Mecheril—were felicitated for their dedication and creativity.
The morning Holy Qurbana, held at 7:00 AM, was beautifully led by the junior choir, whose heartfelt singing added a special touch to the early morning celebration, helping to usher in the spirit of Christmas with reverence and joy.
Students Who Attended 25 Days of Holy Qurbana:
Crib Competition – 2024 Winners:
Bible Sunday 2024 was celebrated at Santhome Church, Hulimavu, on Sunday, 22nd December 2024. Many from our church participated.
Crib Making Team:
Ward-Wise Carol Singing Competition 2024: A Celebration of Unity and Faith
The Ward-Wise Carols are a wonderful tradition that brings together the entire parish community to celebrate the birth of our Savior through the joyful sound of melodious carols. This event not only enhances the festive spirit but also fosters unity within each ward. The hours of practice spent preparing for the carol singing build stronger bonds among the ward members, while the friendly competition adds excitement and enthusiasm to the event.
Our parish is made up of 16 wards, and each ward put forth its best efforts, making it a challenge for the judges to select the winners. The energy, dedication, and joy displayed by all the participants made the competition truly memorable.
The winners of the Ward-Wise Carol Singing Competition held on Sunday, 15th Dec 2024 were:
In addition, Consolation Prizes were awarded to the following wards for their wonderful performances:
The event strengthened bonds among ward members and fostered the true spirit of Christmas.
CATECHISM
Class 9 Students Visit Aakashaparavagal – 1st December 2024
On December 1st, students from Class 9, along with representatives from The Vincent De Paul Society, visited Aakashaparavagal. The students interacted with the inmates and distributed goods and toiletries they had collected. The visit gave the children an opportunity to assist the less privileged by feeding them and spending quality time together.
Holy Childhood Children Participate in Diocese-Level Holy Childhood Festival – 1st December 2024
Fourteen students from the Holy Childhood group participated in the Diocese-level Holy Childhood Festival held at Christ School, Dharmaram. The sight of children dressed as Mama Mary, St. Joseph, and Angels during the rally was truly heartwarming. The event included a Holy Mass, with Fr. Paul Manjooran, Fr. Binoy, and Bishop Mar Sebastian Adayanthranth as the main celebrants. The children from our church performed a dance kit, and the Bishop awarded them medals for their participation. Various awards were given for activities like creating greeting cards for Jesus, writing letters to Jesus, and reciting the most Jesus prayers. The children were accompanied by Holy Childhood coordinator Ms. Neenu Sebastian, along with Ms. Sonia, Ms. Ann Mary Noble, and several parents.
Prize Distribution for Holy Childhood Children – 8th December 2024
On December 8th, fifty children from the Holy Childhood group were awarded prizes for their participation in the Holy Childhood Fest, writing letters to Jesus, reciting the maximum number of Jesus Prayers, and creating greeting cards for Jesus. The prize distribution ceremony took place after the children’s Mass, with Asst. Vicar Fr. Mathew Muthedath presenting the awards.
Secret Santa Celebration for Students and Teachers – 15th December 2024
The Catechism Department organized a Secret Santa gifting activity for both students and teachers on December 15th. Everyone had drawn names the week before and prepared a gift for their designated recipient. The event filled the air with Christmas joy as both students and teachers exchanged thoughtful gifts, bringing happiness and festive spirit to the school.
Diocese Bible Writing Initiative – 22nd December 2024
On December 22nd, four New Testament Bibles from the Catechism Department were submitted as part of the Diocese Bible Writing Initiative. Teachers contributed to one of these Bibles, while students from classes five and six, eight, and the CML group wrote the remaining three Bibles.
Farewell to Anril…
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Anril, who left us at the young age of twelve. Teachers will always remember Anril as a quiet child with a beautiful smile. Although he is no longer with us, he will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in peace.
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Akashaparavakal Visit – 3rd November 2024
As part of the “Year of Care Programme,” a team of 16 members from the St. Vincent de Paul Society visited Akashaparavakal’s Elizabeth Ashrama in Bylakere on November 3rd, 2024. During the visit, we provided monthly groceries worth ₹20,000, which was made possible through contributions from the ward’s offerings during the ward Mass. The members participated in adoration at the chapel, engaged in discussions about the support needed for infrastructure development, and shared lunch with the residents. The visit concluded on a note of togetherness and community support.
Annual Diocese-Level St. Vincent de Paul Societies Meet – 24th November 2024
The Annual Festival General Meeting of the St. Vincent de Paul Society was held on November 24th, 2024, at our church. Seventeen churches participated in the meeting. The annual reports were read by the respective presidents, and the society’s report, along with future programs, was addressed by the MCC President, Br. Tom. Several churches presented cultural programs during the meeting. The event concluded with a fellowship lunch shared by all the members.
SAN THOME YOUTH FRONT (STYF)
INTER-PARISH CAROL COMPETITIONS
December has been a month of unparalleled success for the San Thome Youth Front (STYF), with the choir’s remarkable achievements and the United Christmas event showcasing their talent and dedication, filling us with immense pride and joy.
The STYF choir has excelled in carol competitions, securing first place in every event they participated in. These competitions not only highlight the choir’s musical talent but also serve as opportunities for the youth to grow spiritually and strengthen their bond as a community. Through their participation, the young members of the choir are drawn closer to God, expressing their faith through music and song, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas. These events foster a sense of unity and teamwork, teaching the youth the importance of collaboration and devotion to the church.
On December 1, 2024, they competed in the Cantate Carol Singing Competition, hosted by St. Thomas Forane Church, Dharmaram, where they won their first trophy. On December 7, 2024, they participated in the Santa Beatz Carol Singing Competition at Santhome, Hullimavu, earning their second trophy with a first-place finish. Finally, on December 8, 2024, they took part in the Joyeux Noel Carol Singing Competition hosted by St. Chavara Youth, where they secured their third trophy, completing a hat-trick of victories.
These competitions provide a meaningful outlet for the youth to showcase their faith and talents, while deepening their personal connection to Christ and the Church. The act of singing carols together as a choir creates a spiritual environment that nurtures their relationship with God and fosters a sense of belonging within the larger church community.
UNITED CHRISTMAS
STYF successfully hosted the 29th United Christmas Inter-Parish Carol Singing Competition. After two months of intensive preparation, the event took place on December 14, 2024, at the Parish Hall of St. Thomas Forane Church, Jalahalli, with 12 teams participating. The competition was judged by distinguished individuals: Mr. Sam Matthew Joy, Mr. Thomson Thomas, and Fr. Anup Mundakakal.
The winners of the competition were:
These remarkable achievements demonstrate the exceptional talent and dedication of the San Thome Youth Front, making December a month to remember. The unity and faith expressed through these events highlight the importance of community and spirituality in the lives of our youth, strengthening their role within the church and their personal walk with God.
STAARS PITHRUVEDHI
Thoma Cup 2024: A Celebration of Spirit and Sportsmanship
The third edition of the highly anticipated Inter-Parish Volleyball Tournament, Thoma Cup 2024, was held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at the St. Claret PU College Ground in Jalahalli. This exciting event, inaugurated by Parish Priest Rev. Msgr. Sunny Matthew, CMF was initiated in 2022 to commemorate the 1950th martyrdom anniversary of St. Thomas, under the leadership of STAARS Pithruvedhi.
A total of twelve teams from various parishes within the Mandya Diocese participated in this thrilling tournament, demonstrating exceptional talent, teamwork, and dedication. The competition was fierce, with teams exhibiting remarkable sportsmanship and competitive spirit throughout the day.
After a series of electrifying matches, the team from St. Joseph’s Church, TC Palya, emerged as the champions, claiming the coveted Thoma Cup Trophy. The team from Mount Carmel Forane Church, Carmelaram, secured second place, while the Vailankanni Matha Church, Muthanallur, team proudly claimed third.
The top three teams were presented with well-deserved trophies and cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding performances. Additionally, individual awards were given to players who showcased excellence on the court: Best Attacker, Best Setter, and Best All-Rounder.
The Thoma Cup 2024 not only brought together athletes from across the diocese but also strengthened the sense of community and unity among the faithful. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants and teams for their unwavering dedication and sportsmanship, making this year’s tournament a truly memorable and successful event.
MATHRUVEDHI
Mathruvedi members participated in the carol singing competition organized by the Diocese of Mandya Mathruvedi on 7th Dec 2024 at St. Thomas Forane Church, Dharmaram. The competition was a vibrant and festive event where various parishes from the Diocese gathered to celebrate the joy of Christmas through music. The carol singing showcased beautiful renditions of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols, highlighting the spirit of togetherness and joy. It was a delightful occasion, bringing the community together to spread the message of peace and goodwill through song.
On 8th Dec 2024, Mathruvedi members led the Holy Qurbana on Sunday, celebrating the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mother Mary. The feast commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived without original sin, a grace bestowed upon her by God to be the pure vessel for the birth of Christ. During the Holy Qurbana, special prayers were offered, and Payasam was distributed after the Ladeenj prayer as a sign of blessings and thanksgiving.
In the meeting that followed, the members engaged in the joyful tradition of Secret Santa, where each person is anonymously assigned a fellow member to pray for and exchange gifts with during the Christmas season. The focus of this practice is not only the giving of gifts but also the deeper gesture of prayer for the “Secret Friend,” fostering a spirit of kindness, generosity, and love.
BEST TEACHER
We are immensely proud to announce that Ms Daney Phillips has been honoured with the Best Teacher Award by the Education Department, North Range II, Bengaluru, in association with the Ashwath Narayana Foundation.
This prestigious recognition is a testament to her dedication, knowledge, and her unique ability to bring wit and humour into the classroom, making every class captivating and interesting. She is much loved and admired by her students, who look forward to her lively and engaging classes.
Ms Daney’s commitment to excellence and passion for teaching are truly inspirational. Congratulations once again for this well-deserved honour!
KARUTHAL AWARD 2024
The Jerin Thobias Vakayil Memorial Karuthal Award, established in 2023 to honor individuals who provide exceptional care to those in need, was presented this year to Mr. P. A. Issac, a distinguished member of our parish.
Mr. Issac has been a longstanding parish trustee and played a vital role during the church’s construction. He was the founding president of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in our parish, spearheading numerous humanitarian initiatives such as providing food and shelter for the needy.
He also served as the President of STAARS Pithruvedhi, promoting fellowship and community service among members. Additionally, he played a key role in the Karnataka Kerala Travellers Forum (KKTF) as Treasurer and Joint Convenor, successfully advocating for an increase in train services from one daily train to over 70 weekly services, greatly benefiting travelers between Karnataka and Kerala.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Mr. Issac was also awarded a cash prize of ₹50,000 as part of this award, which he generously donated to the Mandya Diocese’s new initiative, Wings of Hope.
We are incredibly proud of Mr. P. A. Issac’s achievements and his unwavering dedication to serving the community, which continues to inspire us all.
The Feast of the Holy Innocents – 28th Dec 2024
On December 28, 2024, St. Thomas Forane Church, Jalahalli, joyfully celebrated the Feast of the Holy Innocents with solemnity and devotion. The day commenced with a Holy Qurbana in the morning, drawing a congregation filled with faith and reverence. The evening Holy Qurbana saw a similar turnout, as parishioners came together to honor the memory of the Holy Innocents.
The Feast, commemorating the young martyrs who were the first to bear witness to Christ, was marked by special prayers and blessings for little children. These blessings highlighted the importance of children in the Church and served as a heartfelt reminder of their innocence and purity. Parents and families were deeply moved as their little ones received blessings that called upon God’s grace and protection.
ജാലഹള്ളി സെന്റ് തോമസ് ഇടവക പിതൃവേദിയുടെ കഴിഞ്ഞ ഒരു മാസത്തെ പ്രവർത്തന റിപ്പോർട്ട് December 2024
തോമാകപ്പ്2024
ജാലഹള്ളി ഇടവക സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദിയുടെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ സംഘടിപ്പിക്കപ്പെട്ട ഇന്റർ പാരിഷ് വോളിബാൾ ടൂർണമെന്റ് തോമാകപ്പ് 2024 ഡിസംബർ 8 ഞായറാഴ്ച നടന്നു.
സെന്റ് ക്ലാരെറ്റ് PU കോളേജ് ഗ്രൗണ്ടിൽ നടന്ന മത്സരങ്ങൾ ഇടവക വികാരി റവ ഫാദർ സണ്ണി മാത്യു ഉദ്ഘാടനം ചെയ്തു. അസിസ്റ്റന്റ് വികാരി ഫാദർ ജോസഫ് തൂമ്പനാൽ ആശംസ പ്രസംഗം നടത്തി.
മണ്ട്യ രൂപതയിലെ വിവിധ ഇടവകകൾ പങ്കെടുത്ത ടൂർണമെന്റിൽ 12 ടീമുകൾ മത്സരിച്ചു.
വാശിയേറിയ മത്സരങ്ങൾക്കൊടുവിൽ ടിസി പാളയ സെന്റ് ജോസഫ് ഇടവക ടീം ചാമ്പ്യൻസ് ട്രോഫി കരസ്തമാക്കി. കർമലാരാം മൗണ്ട് കാർമൽ ഇടവക ടീം രണ്ടാം സ്ഥാനവും, മുത്തനല്ലൂർ വേളാങ്കണ്ണി മാതാ ഇടവക ടീം മൂന്നാം സ്ഥാനവും കരസ്തമാക്കി. ആദ്യ മൂന്ന് സ്ഥാനം ലഭിച്ച ടീമുകൾക്ക് ട്രോഫികളും ക്യാഷ് അവാർഡും സമ്മാനിച്ചു. കൂടാതെ മികച്ച വ്യക്തിഗത പ്രകടനം നടത്തിയ കളിക്കാർക്ക് മികച്ച അറ്റാക്കർ, മികച്ച സെറ്റർ, മികച്ച ഓൾ റൗണ്ടർ എന്നീ മൂന്ന് വ്യക്തിഗത ട്രോഫികളും അവാർഡുo നൽകി.
