Navjan Event

Inter-Religious Conference Promotes Peace and Harmony

NavJan – A People Empowerment Trust, the social wing of the Claretian Missionaries of Northeast India, organized an Inter-Religious Conference at St. Claret School, Borjhar, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. The event brought together leaders of diverse faiths, educators, and students to celebrate the message of peace, dialogue, and harmony.

The conference was graced by Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Thomas Menamparambil SDB, recipient of the Ambassador of Peace Award and nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize for his lifelong efforts in fostering unity among communities in Northeast India. In his keynote address, Archbishop Menamparambil emphasized the importance of building bridges between religions and cultures, reminding all that peace begins with mutual respect and understanding. “True peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of goodwill,” he said.

Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Allen Brooks, former Chairman of the Assam State Commission for Minorities; Maulana Fazlul Karim Qasimi, Secretary of Assam State Jamiat Ulama; representative from the Brahma Kumaris Society; Fr. Amal Raj, Regional Deputy Secretary of the Bishops’ Council of Northeast India; Fr. Tom, Director of North East Social Communications and Fr John Kochupuzha who spoke on “Education for Peace and Character.” Their reflections highlighted how faith traditions can collaborate to nurture social harmony and moral strength in the young.

The program opened with a prayer song by students of Sacred Heart Convent School. Students from St. Clare Convent School presented a moving performance through a skit-like dance depicting religious harmony and peace. Fr. Janardhan Munnelli CMF, Director of NavJan Trust and convener of the event, welcomed the gathering, setting the tone for a meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences. Fr. Jose SVD expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks, acknowledging the cooperation of many in making the event a success.

The event concluded with a Pledge for Peace and Harmony, administered by Fr. Janardhan, where participants together vowed to promote understanding and compassion in their communities. The program ended with the National Anthem, marking a fitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth and non-violence.

Mother’s Day

St. Claret Parish, Borjhar, joyfully celebrated Mother’s Day on 7 September through the joint efforts of NavJan Trust, the social wing of the Claretian Missionaries in the Northeast India Province, and the Women’s Commission of the parish. The celebration was preceded on 6 September by a spiritually enriching collection talk delivered by Fr. Patrick SVD, followed by the Sacrament of Confession for parishioners. On the day of the celebration, the parish gathered for the Holy Mass, solemnly presided over by Fr. Patrick SVD, who in his homily highlighted the vital role of mothers in the faith formation of families. After the Mass, a heartfelt Mother’s Day wishing song was sung in honour of all mothers present.

The programme concluded with the cutting of a cake and the distribution of sweets to every mother. Fr. Janardhan Munnelli CMF, Director of NavJan Trust, extended warm wishes to all the mothers and assured them of the community’s continued love and support. A special word of gratitude goes to Sr. Anjana, Holy Spirit, whose dedication and tireless efforts greatly contributed to the success of the celebration. The day became a beautiful expression of love, gratitude, and unity within the parish community, uplifting the spirit of motherhood and family life.