St. Thomas Forane Church
St. Thomas Forane Church
Jalahalli, Banagalore, Karnataka 560 013

PARISH DIARY – November’25

SOLEMN HOLY COMMUNION – 2ND NOVEMBER 2025

Preparation for the Solemn Holy Communion began in July 2025, under the leadership of our Vicar, Rev. Fr. Sunny Mathew CMF, and the dedicated guidance of Sr. Stephy DM and Ms. Lidiya P. To support parents in accompanying their children on this spiritual journey, an orientation program was conducted on 17th August 2025 by Fr. Xavier Manavath CMF. In addition, there were special catechetical sessions on the Holy Qurbana for students led by Fr. Xavier, along with a formative session by the Catechism HM, Mrs. Sunie Paul.

As part of their spiritual preparation, the Sacrament of Reconciliation was held on 31st October 2025, marking a meaningful moment of reflection, repentance, and grace for the children as they readied themselves to receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

On 2nd November 2025, 29 students from our parish joyfully celebrated their Solemn Holy Communion, and 12 of them also received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Both sacraments were conferred by His Excellency Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, Bishop of Mandya, making the occasion even more memorable and spiritually enriching for the children, their families, and the parish community.

 

RUBY JUBILEE & PARISH DAY CELEBRATION – 23RD NOV 2025

The parish community of St. Thomas Forane Church, Jalahalli, came together in great joy and gratitude to celebrate the Ruby Jubilee and Parish Day, marking forty years of spiritual growth, fellowship, and missionary commitment. The celebration served as a beautiful reminder of God’s enduring blessings upon the parish since its establishment.

The Holy Qurbana was concelebrated by His Excellency Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, Bishop of Mandya, Rev. Dr. Sabu Kuttarappallil CMF, Provincial Superior CMF, along with the parish clergy—Msgr. Sunny Kunnampadavil (Vicar), Fr. Joseph Thoompanal and Rev. Dr. Mathew Moothedam (Assistant Vicars)—together with other priests.

The celebration began with a public meeting, during which a documentary video presenting the history and journey of the parish was screened. Founding members, former and current trustees, parish council representatives, academic achievers, and parishioners with notable accomplishments were honoured in recognition of their contributions to the growth of the parish community.

As part of the Ruby Jubilee charity initiative of St. Thomas Forane Church, the Pitruvedi Jalahalli Unit donated a Bolero vehicle to the Preethidam Mission Station, Kebbepura. Fr. Binoy Palakkattu PSDP (Priest-in-Charge) received the vehicle key in the presence of Bishop Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, marking a meaningful act of service and outreach.

The celebration continued with cultural performances by Mathruvedhi and the four parish zones, showcasing unity, heritage, creativity, and the vibrant participation of parish families and pious organizations.

As the parish looks beyond this milestone, the celebration renewed a shared mission—to continue building a Christ-centered community rooted in prayer, compassion, and active faith.

 

CATECHISM

Feast of St. Antony Mary Claret – 26th October

The feast of St. Antony Mary Claret, founder of the Claretian Congregation, was celebrated with devotion by parents and children together. The solemn Holy Mass concluded with a novena to St. Antony Mary Claret and Ladeenji. As part of the celebration, the catechism children presented the life story of St. Antony Mary Claret, and one child beautifully portrayed the saint in costume, inspiring the congregation with the spirit of missionary zeal.

CML Annual Day 2025 – 1st November

The CML Annual Day was celebrated at St. Thomas Forane Church with great enthusiasm. The event began with a vibrant kids’ rally from the grounds of St. Claret, where children from 23 churches marched, singing the CML slogan and carrying CML flags. Many children came dressed as the patron saints of CML, adding colour and inspiration to the procession.

The rally oncluded at the church entrance, where Bishop Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath inaugurated the celebration by releasing balloons, followed by the flag hoisting by the CML President. Children then proceeded to the parish campus for the cultural program and public gathering.

A graceful prayer dance was performed by the children of St. Thomas Forane Church. Inspirational messages were delivered by Bishop Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath, Fr. Paul Manjooran, Director of Catechism and CML, and Msgr. Sunny Mathew, Parish Priest of St. Thomas Forane Church.

The gathering concluded with the CML Anthem sung with pride and unity.

Catechism First Semester Examination – 9th November

The Catechism Department conducted the First Semester Examination for Classes 1 to 12 on 9th November 2025, following the guidelines and directives of the CBC Team of the Mandya Diocese. The students prepared diligently, and the evaluation process ensured structured faith formation and academic discipline within catechetical learning.

Encounter Retreat for High School Students – 16th November

On 15th and 16th November 2025, the Youth and Vocational Ministry of the Claretians organized a two-day Spiritual Encounter and Living the Call Retreat for Christian high school students at St. Claret Degree College, Jalahalli.

On 16th November, catechism students from Grades 8 to 12 of our parish participated in the retreat, which became a deeply enriching spiritual experience. Through inspiring sessions, worship, and moments of reflection, the students were led to listen to God’s gentle voice, deepen their relationship with Christ, and discern His purpose in their lives. The retreat left a lasting impact, fostering renewed faith, clarity of mission, and spiritual enthusiasm.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Feast Day Celebrations – 5th October 2025

The Society celebrated its Feast Day with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Xavier Manavath, Vicar General of the Diocese of Bangalore. Beneficiary families were specially invited, and 35 families participated in the celebration. Following the Holy Qurbana, a public gathering was held with the beneficiaries. During the programme Meritorious students from beneficiary families who completed the SSLC examinations were honoured. The Jacob Memorial Scholarship was presented to the top-performing student, along with two consolation prizes for the second and third rank holders. A general health check-up camp was organised for beneficiaries. Fun games and activities were conducted for children.

The programme concluded with a festive lunch served to all beneficiaries and invited guests, fostering fellowship, dignity, and joy.

Visit to Akashaparavakal Thirumugham Ashram – 12th October 2025

As part of the Year of Care Programme, six members of the Society visited Akashaparavakal Thirumugham Ashram, Bylakere. Members spent time in prayer at the chapel and extended charitable support by providing monthly groceries worth ₹25,000 to the institution.

Visit to Santhawana Hospice – 26th October 2025

Members of the Society visited Santhawana Hospice, a palliative care centre serving the elderly and terminally ill. The centre currently houses 35 inmates and staff. Members interacted with the residents, spent time in prayer at the chapel, and donated groceries worth ₹15,000 to support their ongoing needs.

PITHRUVEDHI

Participation in the Diocesan Pithruvedi Day

On November 1st, 18 members participated in the Diocesan Pithruvedi Day held at Holy Family Church, Hongasandra. On the same day, Pithruvedi members were also actively involved in the organisation and coordination of the Diocesan-level CML Meet.

Participation in Inter-Parish Cricket Tournaments

On November 1st and 2nd, the Stars Pithruvedi Jalahalli Team participated in the Hongasandra Premier League Cricket Tournament and delivered a commendable performance.

Following this, on November 8th and 9th, the team participated in the Punyalans Premier League Cricket Tournament and secured the third place.

 

Parish Annual Sports Competitions Successfully Organised

Under the leadership of Stars Pithruvedi, the parish Annual Sports Competitions, which began on September 7th, concluded on November 9th with the Athletics events.

Parishioners participated enthusiastically, competing across various zones.

Trophies for the winners were distributed on November 23rd during the Parish Day celebration, by Parish Vicar Msgr. Sunny Mathew, along with Assistant Vicars Fr. Joseph Thoompanal and Fr. Mathew Moothedam.

 

Charitable Activities

Stars Pithruvedi, known for its active involvement in various parish initiatives, continued to offer noteworthy service in charitable activities. This year, the major portion of the Pithruvedi charity fund was designated to support the mission activities of the Preethidam Community Centre, a mission station under the Diocese of Mandya.

One of the biggest challenges faced by the mission team working in tribal regions is reaching the interior forest villages. To support this need, a four-wheeler vehicle became essential.After visiting the mission area and assessing the situation, Stars Pithruvedi decided to provide a Mahindra Bolero four-wheeler worth ₹10.70 lakhs.

This decision was formally announced during the Parish Day, in the presence of the Bishop, the Community Centre Director Fr. Binoy, and the missionary sisters, by Parish Vicar Fr. Sunny Mathew and Pithruvedi President Mr. Cyril K. Babu. Additionally, ₹50,000 was provided as medical assistance for a kidney patient.

 

Volleyball Coaching Camp Launched

To introduce the fundamentals of volleyball to the younger generation, a Volleyball Coaching Camp was launched under the leadership of Stars Pithruvedi on November 2nd for parish members. raining sessions are conducted every Sunday from 2 pm to 5 pm. Around 10 children from the parish are currently benefiting from the camp.

ജാലഹള്ളി സെന്റ് തോമസ് ഇടവക പിതൃവേദിയുടെ കഴിഞ്ഞ ഒരു മാസത്തെ പ്രവർത്തന റിപ്പോർട്ട്‌ നവംബർ 2025

രൂപത തല പിതൃവേദി ദിനത്തിൽ പങ്കെടുത്തു

നവംബർ 1 നു Holy Family Church Hongasandra യിൽ വച്ച് നടത്തപ്പെട്ട പിതൃവേദി ദിനത്തിൽ 18 അംഗങ്ങൾ പങ്കെടുത്തു. അതെ ദിവസം തന്നെ നടത്തപ്പെട്ട രൂപതാതല CML meet ന്റെ സംഘാടനത്തിൽ പിതൃവേദി അംഗങ്ങൾ വളരെ ആക്ടിവായി പങ്കെടുത്തു.

Inter – Parish Cricket മത്സരങ്ങളിൽ പങ്കെടുത്തു

നവംബർ 1,2 തീയതികളിൽ നടന്ന Hongasandra Premier League cricket ടൂർണമെന്റിൽ സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദി ജാലഹള്ളി ടീം പങ്കെടുക്കുകയും നല്ല പ്രകടനം കാഴ്ചവെക്കുകയും ചെയ്തു. നവംബർ 8, 9 തീയതികളിൽ നടന്ന Punyalans Premier League cricket ടൂർണമെന്റിൽ പങ്കെടുത്ത ടീം മൂന്നാം സ്ഥാനം നേടുകയുണ്ടായി.

ഇടവകയുടെ വാർഷിക കായിക മത്സരങ്ങൾ സംഘടിപ്പിച്ചു

സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദിയുടെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ സെപ്തംബര് 7 നു ആരംഭിച്ച ഇടവകയുടെ വാർഷിക കായിക മത്സരങ്ങൾ നവംബര് 9 നു athletics മത്സരങ്ങളോടെ അവസാനിച്ചു. വളരെ ആവേശത്തോടെ ഇടവകങ്ങൾ ഈ മത്സരങ്ങളിൽ പങ്കെടുത്തു. വിവിധ സോണുകളായി തിരിച്ചു നടത്തപ്പെട്ട മത്സരങ്ങളിൽ വിജയികൾക്കായുള്ള ട്രോഫികൾ നവംബര് 23 നു നടത്തപ്പെട്ട ഇടവക ദിനത്തിൽ വച്ച് ഇടവക വികാരി msgr Sunny Mathew അസിസ്റ്റന്റ് വികാരിമാരായ Fr. ജോസഫ് തൂമ്പനാൽ , Fr. Mathew Moothedam എന്നിവർ നൽകുകയുണ്ടായി.

ജീവകാരുണ്യ പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങൾ

ഇടവകയുടെ നാനാവിധ പ്രവർത്തങ്ങളിലും സജീവ സാന്നിധ്യമായ സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദി ജീവകാരുണ്യ പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങളിലും വളരെ സ്തുത്യർഹമായ സേവനം കാഴ്ചവക്കാറുണ്ട്. ഈ വര്ഷം സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദിയുടെ ജീവകാരുണ്യ ഫണ്ടിന്റെ മുഘ്യപങ്കും മാന്ധ്യ രൂപതയുടെ മിഷൻ സ്റ്റേഷനായ Preethidam community സെന്റര് ന്റെ പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങളെ സഹായിക്കാനായി വിനിയോഗിക്കാൻ തീരുമാനിച്ചു. Tribal മേഖലയുടെ ഉന്നമനത്തിനായി പ്രവർത്തിക്കുന്ന ടീം നേരിടുന്ന ഏറ്റവും വലിയ വെല്ലുവിളി കാടിനുള്ളിൽ സ്ഥിതി ചെയ്യുന്ന വിവിധ ഗ്രാമങ്ങളിൽ എത്തിപ്പെടുക എന്നുള്ളതാണ്. ഇതിനായി ഇവർക്ക് അത്യാവശ്യമായി വേണ്ടത് ഒരു four wheelar ആണ്. നമ്മുടെ ഒരു ടീം ഈ മേഖല സന്ദർശിക്കുകയും സ്ഥിതിഗതികൾ വിലയിരുത്തുകയും ചെയ്തതിന്റെ അടിസ്ഥാനത്തിൽ സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദി ഇവർക്കായി 10.70 ലക്ഷം വില വരുന്ന ഒരു four-wheeler (Mahindra Bolero) നൽകുവാൻ തീരുമാനിച്ചു. ഈ തീരുമാനം ഇടവക ദിനത്തിൽ വച്ച് ബിഷപ്പിന്റെയും കമ്മ്യൂണിറ്റി സെന്റര് ഇൻചാർജ് ബിനോയ് അച്ചന്റേയും മിഷനറി സിസ്റേഴ്സ്ന്റെയും സാന്നിധ്യത്തിൽ ഇടവക വികാരി Fr സണ്ണി മാത്യുവും സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേട് പ്രസിഡന്റ ശ്രീ സിറിൽ കെ ബാബുവും ചേർന്ന് പ്രഖ്യാപിച്ചു.

അതോടൊപ്പം തന്നെ വൈദ്യ സഹായത്തിനായി ഒരു വൃക്ക രോഗിക്കായി അൻപതിനായിരം രൂപ നൽകുവാനും സാധിച്ചു.

Volleyball Coaching ക്യാമ്പ് ആരംഭിച്ചു

പുതിയ തലമുറയ്ക്ക് വോളി ബോളിന്റെ ബാലപാഠങ്ങൾ പകർന്നു നൽകുവാനായി സ്റ്റാർസ് പിതൃവേദിയുടെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ ഒരു വോളി ബോൾ കോച്ചിങ് ക്യാമ്പ് നവംബര് 2 നു ഇടവകങ്ങങ്ങൾക്കായി ആരംഭിക്കുകയുണ്ടായി. എല്ലാ ഞായറാഴ്ചയും 2 pm മുതൽ 5 pm വരെയാണ് കോച്ചിങ് നൽകി വരുന്നത് . ഇടവകയിലെ 10 ഓളം കുട്ടികൾ ഈ ക്യാമ്പിന്റെ പ്രയോജനം ഉപയോഗപ്പെടുത്തുന്നു.