[The Presidential Election is due in July, when Narayanan ends his five-year term. He was sworn in on July 25, 1997. We all Keralite irrespective of the Cast, Creed or Religion are proud that President Narayanan hails from Kerala. Now there can be one more chance for us to be proud and excited if we get one more President from our state, Dr.P.C.Alexander.]

New York:Dear friends, Recently it came to my notice through some accredited Indian Publication that some groups from Kerala expressed their resentment and disagreement on appointing an Indian Orthodox Person (Dr. P C Alexander, Maharashtra Governor for President) as the President of India and conveyed their reservation even to the Government with an interesting reasoning as '...Indian President, as we want highest office unbiased.' I would like to express few thoughts on this:

There is no good reason to believe this is the representation of any church, but this kind of statements are only doing disservice to the Churches and the Christian Community. It is very unfortunate to make such an ignorant statement, shows little knowledge on the highest office of the nation and its personality. We never had any Christian President in India or any Christian denominations member as President, to be concern about - loosing representation, if that is the case.!. India is a secular country, we should not worry about the faith of anyone other than the constitutional rights of any citizen. If all Christians or any , one state decide, it may not make much difference to make Mr. Alexander nominated or elected. Present Indian President, Dr. Narayanan , a Karalite, is the president of all Indians. Still as Keralites, we can all have a very proud feeling, as he is someone from our home state.

"Dr. P.C.Alexander is one of the most distinguished and respected Public Servants of the Post-Independence Era, distinguished and respected because of the high standards of efficiency, impartiality and integrity he had tried to maintain throughout his career. An outstanding statesman and administrator, he has the distinction of having held several high positions in public life both at the national and international levels spanning a period of over half a century" I have no reasons to believe against Mr. Alexander's suitability, considering his long years of service to the nation and his skills. I have no connection to Mr. Alexander's any interest to this highest office. But my simple judgment is: As Maharashtra Governor, for the last 10 years, Mr. Alexander is demonstrating an excellent leadership and approval among other Indians and to the ruling political parties of the Central Govt. - I do not think Muslims or Hindus would go against Mr. Alexander because of his religion. Instead, they may consider such an experienced, capable person should be the one we need for this time of much needed communal harmony everywhere.

As a sovereign democratic nation, India can elect anyone to its highest office, but a Christian President could definitely make better image for the ruling Baratiya Janata Party in India or overseas. - I have absolutely nothing to see him low, otherwise there would have no such person at this level. Please look at his profile:
Three years as Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India,
Four years as Principal Secretary to Prime Minister
Three years as High Commissioner for India in London
Over eleven years as Governor (Tamil Nadu 1988-90 of which one year was when the State was under President's rule and Maharashtra from January 1993), and
Ten years in senior posts in the U. N. Civil Service

It was while serving as Assistant Secretary General and Executive Director of the UN International Trade Center, Geneva, that Mrs. Indira Gandhi invited him to join her office as Principal Secretary. Later to Raja Gandhi during the years 1981-1985, he played a very crucial role in the momentous developments of this period. He had training in the Board of Trade U.K. under a Nuffield Foundation Fellowship and did research at the Stanford Research Institute, California, U.S.A. under a Ford Foundation Fellowship." My humble opinion is please make better judgement. Thanks.
Joseph Kappil

GENERAL COMPETITION DEADLINE:
The deadline for the assigned General Competition is May 31st. Check the Sunday School Directory for details. Send your entries (essays and drawings) to the Director promptly.

CENTRALIZED EXAMINATIONS:
The Centralized examinations of the North Eastern Region for classes V, VIII and X will be conducted on June 30th at different locations in the Region.

SUNDAY SCHOOL SUNDAY OFFERTORY AND WORKBOOK ORDERS:
The Sunday School Sunday Offertory and the workbook orders along with the payments shall be sent as soon as possible.

THE ARAMANA PROJECT FUND: :
Sunday School Children's collections toward the proposed Diocesan Center Project to be sent to the Director so that the total amount can be presented to the Diocesan Metropolitan at a specified occasion. So far only the following Sunday Schools sent the collections:
1. Jackson Heights St. Mary's: 825.00
2. Albany St. Paul's: 340.92
3. Philadelphia Area Sunday Schools: 222.00
4. Dallas St. Mary's (To Aramana) 523.17

ANNUAL SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS' CONFERENCE:
The Annual Teachers' Conference shall be held at St. Gregorios, Queens on September 14th, Saturday. Items of concerns to be included in the agenda to discuss and decide shall be sent to the Director at the earliest possible.

CANDIDATES TO TRAIN OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS:
We are looking for well trained teachers to train our Sunday School Teachers in the American way. Please send the names and other details of such people to the Director.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULLUM AND TEXT BOOKS:
We would appreciate creative ideas and talents to update our curricullum, textbooks, and workbooks.

GENERAL COMPETITIONS:
Send appropriate topics for the 2003 General assigned Competitions.

COMPETITIONS AND TALENT SHOWS:
Send ideas and ways how to improve the quality of our annual competitions and Talent Shows.

ACOLYTES (ALTAR HELPERS') TRAINING COURSE:
In response to the announcement for the need to train our acolytes (altar helpers), Rev. Dn. George Mathew of Baltimore has been developing a "COURSE" for the same. Those who are interested may contact the Director at: veryrevtpm@yahoo.com or at 518-869-8120.

WASHINGTON-BALTIMORE COMBIEND SUNDAY SCHOOL PROGRAM:
By the grace of God, we are pleased to report that the three parishes in the Baltimore/Washington Area conducted a joint Sunday School Sunday program for the benefit of the Sunday School students. The program was conducted at St Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington on Saturday, February 2 (day of Mayaltho). The day began with English Qurbana celebrated by Rev. Fr. P.C. Thomas, vicar of St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington, and asssisted by Rev. Fr. K.P. Varghese, vicar of St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church of Baltimore and Very Rev. Fr. Thomas P. Mundukuzhy, Cor Episcopa, the Diocesan Sunday School Director. A total of 59 students from the three parishes attended, along with 14 Sunday School teachers and three headmasters. A fair number of parents and well-wishers were also present.

Following Holy Qurbana, the Sunday School Day Prayer and Procession occurred. After lunch, a Public Meeting was conducted, which included the Presidential Address by Very Rev. Fr. Mundukuzhy, who explained about the Sunday School activities and reason for celebrating Sunday School Sunday. Each parish arranged programs for the Variety Entertainments part of the program, including short skits, solo and group songs, and a few speeches.

The Bible Trivia Competition conducted at the end of the program was one of the highlights of the day. Questions had been created by the three vicars and forwarded to Very Rev. Fr. Mundukuzhy, the Quiz Master. The questions dealt with the Holy Bible, and the history, faith, and traditions of the church. The team from St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington won the large Rolling Trophy, while the other two teams were awarded Very Rev. Fr. Mundukuzhy's book "Our Church" as a study aid for next year. We are proud of our children and the knowledge they showcased.

We are very fortunate for the dedication and support of Very. Rev. Fr. Mundukuzhy and the vicars of the three parishes in the Baltimore/Washington area. We are also grateful to the Sunday School teachers, students, and parents who participated in the program and allowed the day to be a grand success. We are hopeful that this beginning will allow us all to worship, learn from each other, and love each other in a true Christian sense. We look forward to more joint activities this year.

Respectfully Submitted,
George Mathew
Headmaster
St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church, Greater Washington

DALLAS DISTRICT COMPETITIONS:
A great amount of talent of second and third generation Indian Americans were showcased by over 300 contestants at the Sunday School competitions of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, American Diocese, Dallas District. The competitions were held on two Saturdays, March 9 and 16, 2002. On March 9 in the competitions held at St. Mary's Church, Farmers' Branch, students in groups 1 through 3 competed in English and Malayalam solo and group songs, Oral Bible Verses, Bible Reading, Elocution, etc. The competitions started at 1.30 in the afternoon and went on till 6 in the evening. Rev. Frs. Mathai Alakkot (temporary vicar of St. Mary's Church), Cherian Kunnel (Vicar, St. Thomas Church) and C. G. Thomas (Vicar, St. George Church) led the prayers.

On March 16 the competitions started at 1.30 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, Dallas and the items were solo and group songs in Malayalam and English and Elocution competitions for students in groups 4, 5 and 6. Around 6.30 in the evening, the competitions ended. Rev. Fr. C. G. Thomas led the prayers. Abraham Thomas, Sunday School Inspector, Dallas District, welcomed and proposed a vote of thanks on both the days. The competitions were organized by the Dallas District Committee, which includes the four headmasters from Sunday Schools in the metroplex - Thomas Abraham (St. Mary's Church), George Mathew (St. Gregorios Church, Garland), Raju Philip (St. Thomas Church, Mesquite) and Abraham Thomas (St. George Church).

Abraham Thomas,
Sunday School Dallas Area Inspector
3335 Rosebank Dr., Dallas TX 75228

PHILADELPHIA AREA SUNDAY SCHOOL CONFERENCE:
The one-day conference of the teachers and students of the parish Sunday Schools of Philadelphia Area of the Eastern Region of the American Diocese Sunday School Association was held on Saturday, 16th of March, 2002 at St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, Philadelphia. The Very Rev. Thomas P. Mundukuzhy Cor Episcopa, the Sunday School Association Director presided over the meeting. Over seventy students and teachers of the area Sunday Schools attended the conference. Notable among the attending teachers were Mrs. Sosamma Jacob, HM, and Mr. Chacko Mathen of St. Mary's Church, Mr. Jacob John, HM, and Mrs. Liz Pothen of St. Thomas Church, and Mr. Paul J. Maret, HM, and Miss Sheena Mathai of St. Gregorios Church.

The attendees were heartily welcomed through a delightful song session led by Miss Sheena Mathai, other teachers and senior students of St. Gregorios parish SS. After the opening prayer led by Mundukuzhy Achen, the Area Inspector Mr. Korah T. Mani welcomed the attendees on behalf of the St. Gregorios Church vicar, Very Rev. K. Mathai Cor Episcopa who was away in Kerala, India to attend the Malankara Association meeting. He stressed the importance of this conference to the students and teachers of the area parish SSs, since it provided a forum for dialogue with the SS Director who has single-handedly taken the responsibility of organizing and energizing the SS Association in North America. He has been instrumental in the development of the workbooks for each grade; it was his interest that started the talent show and talent competition, and the centralized examination, being held at the diocese level. The diocese owes a lot to him for his commitment and dedication in invigorating the Association from its start. Korah Mani pointed out Achen's special interest in training the teachers to teach our children about our faith, tradition, history and our service, for which he has authored the book "Our Church", an encyclopedia of Indian Orthodox Church.

After self-introduction by the attendees, the SS Association Director addressed the gathering. In his address, Mundukuzhy Achen cited the significance of the English translations of our Holy Service and daily prayer books in order to keep our children 'engaged' during the worship services and family prayer times. The floor was opened for

Question and Answer session primarily aimed at giving an opportunity for the students to take advantage of Mundukuzhy Achen's vast knowledge about our Church, and his commitment to our children who are born and/or brought up in this country. The Q&A session was skillfully moderated by Mr. Jacob John, HM of St. Thomas parish SS who directed the questions to Achen for his response. At times, his son-in-law Dr.Robbin Mathew helped Achen in responding to certain questions, the way the children liked to hear.

Before the lunch break, the attendees celebrated the Catholicate Day which fell on the following Sunday. Achen led the special prayers for the day, a lively procession, and the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Church and to the Throne of the Catholicate, followed by singing of the Catholicate anthem, and the noon prayer.

After lunch, the choir led by Miss Sheena Mathai entertained the gathering with melodious hymns. The main item for the afternoon was the Bible Trivia. Mr. Jacob John assembled hundreds of trivia questions from the Bible and on our Church. The attending students were grouped into three teams, A, B, and C. Mundukuzhy Achen orchestrated the trivia session; he selected, and asked the questions to each team in sequence. The team spirit and the quest for the right answer were evident among the team members during the entire trivia session. Though the teams were very close to each other in terms of their performance for most of the challenges, team A came out with the top score, thus qualifying themselves to represent Philadelphia Area in the Regional/diocesan level trivia competition. Team A members selected the following students to represent them at the regional competition: Libby Abraham, Libu Geevarghese, Marina Issac, Jenny Joy, and Lynne Raju. Confectionaries were distributed among the participants for a lively competition.

Mr. Paul J. Maret, HM of St. Gregorios parish SS thanked the attendees and the distinguished guests, namely the SSAssociation Director, Mundukuzhy Achen, Kochamma and family, the HMs, and the teachers and students of the area parishes, for attending the conference. He recognized the organizers behind the arrangements for the conference, including those who helped in preparing and serving the lunch for Achen and family. He thanked Mathai Achen, the vicar, Mr. Yohannan Mathai, the parish Secretary, Mr. Mathew Varghese, the Treasurer, and the members of St. Gregorios Church for their wholehearted support for the success of this conference.

The Area Inspector Mr. Korah Mani handed over to Mundukuzhy Achen an amount of $200.00 which was raised at the Philadelphia Area OVBS of 2000, held at St. Thomas Church, and an additional $22.00 collected from the attendees of this conference, towards the Diocesan Center Fund. The meeting concluded with prayer at 3: 30 P.M.
Korah Mani,
Philadelphia Area Inspector

SOUTHERN REGIONAL SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS' CONFERENCE:
The 12th Annual Conference of the Southern Regional Sunday School Teachers was held at St. Gregorios orthodox Church, Houston on April 13th. The Sunday School Director Very Rev. Thomas P. Mundukuzhy was the keynote speaker. The theme of the Conference was "HOW TO ENHANCE SUNDAY SCHOOL ACTIVITIES" presented by P. G. Mathew of St. Mary's Church, Dallas. After registration and prayer, Benny John, Headmaster of St. Gregorios, Houston welcomed the participants from all Sunday Schools in Houston and Dallas. Paul Pathrose, the Southern Region Coordinator, who directed the program, introduced the Director and the paricipants introduced themselves. In his opening address, Mundukuzhy Achen stressed the importance of effectively conducting our Sunday Schools in the American method of teaching and pointed out the seven ways how to help our Sunday Schools. Achen told the participants that we "can do all things through Christ who strengthens" us. "There is a time for Truth; time for action; If not us, who?; if not now, when?" P. G. Mathew's theme presentation was discussed and encouraged to introduce new approach to enhance the Sunday School activities. Rev. Fr. P.M. Cherian, vicar of St. Gregorios, Rev. Fr. Mammen Mathew (St. Thomas, Houston), Abraham Thomas, headmaster of St. George, Dallas as well as Dallas Area Inspector, Thomas Abraham, headmaster of St. Mary's, Dallas, Philipose Philip, headmaster of St. Stephen's, Houston, Koshy Varghese, headmaster of Houston St. Thomas, John Kunnathu (St. Gregorios, Houston), K. C. Mathew and Thomas Mathew (St. Stephen's, Houston), and several others joined in the live discussions with suggestions and recommendations. All agreed to get outside help, if needed, to train our teachers to teach in the American ways and methods. The Model Class tape recorded at last year's Annual Conference in Philadelphia taken by Dr. Thomas John of Washington was also demonstrated before the participants. During the business session, John Kunnathu was elected as the Houston Area Inspector and K. C. Mathew as the Southern Region Centralized Examination Coordinator. Mundukuzhy Achen gave Certificates of Recognition to all the participants. The visiting Metropolitan Abraham Mar Severios along with Rev. Fr. C. O. Vargis (St. Stephen's, Houston) graced the Conference by their presence and Thirumeny's blessings. Abraham Thomas thanked every one especially St. Gregorios Church for hosting the Conference and providing good refreshments and food.

REPORT OF THE DALLAS DISTRICT TEACHERS' MEETING:
A meeting of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Christian Church Sunday School teachers in Dallas District (St. Mary's, St. Gregorios, St. George, and St. Thomas)was held at St. Gregorios church on Sunday, April 14, 2002. The meeting started at 3.00 p.m. with prayer and was presided by Very Rev. Thomas P Mundukuzhy, Director, Sunday School Association, American Diocese. Rev. Fr. Raju M. Daniel, Vicar, St. Gregorios Church, welcomed everyone. Abraham Thomas, Inspector, Dallas District, introduced Very Rev. Thomas Mundukuzhy and explained the circumstances leading to the meeting. Very Rev. Thomas Mundukuzhy, in his address, detailed the activities of the Sunday School at Diocesan level and briefed on the proposed changes to be brought about in centralized examinations for grades 5, 8 and 10 by the election of the Southern Region Centralized Examination Coordinator.

Teachers expressed their concerns, questions and comments. Main concerns were about the availability of new, revised text books, the contents in grade IX text book and work book, making available work books on a floppy disc or CD, etc. The Director answered that revision of text books are on the way and anomalies mentioned will be taken care of in the revised versions. He was welcome to making available work books in floppies/CDs, if arrangements to do this can be made. It was decided to hold the next teachers' meeting on August 3, 2002 from 2.00 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church Dallas.

A video of a model class by Dr. Thomas John, Washington was shown and senior students were assembled for a quiz session. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by George Mathew, Headmaster, St. Gregorios Church Sunday School and prayer.

Achen celebrated holy qurbana earlier at St. Gregorios church.
Abraham Thomas
Dallas Area Inspector

BIBLE QUIZ COMPETITION DEMONSTRATION:
Very Rev. Thomas Mundukuzhy, our Sunday School Director, led a Bible quiz competition demonstration at St. Thomas Orthodox Church, Houston on April 21st in the afternoon. The participants included the senior students from the three parishes in Houston area (St. Thomas, St. Stephen's, and St. Gregorios). They were put in three groups of five representing each parish. Each group was assigned a leader. Once the question was read, the members of each group discussed the answer among themselves and came to an agreement. Points were given to each group according to the answer announced by the leader. About 25 questions were asked. Every participant received a prayer book as reward from Fr. Mundukuzhy.

This gave the students a chance to practice teamwork within each group. It also challenged them to compete against the other teams. It also helped them to become aware of their knowledge of the Bible.

This event was coordinated by the area inspector John Kunnathu, and the three headmasters Philip Philipose, Koshy Varghese, and Benny John. Several teachers from all the three churches were present who met with Achen after the demonstration to air their concerns about our Sunday School activities.

Achen celebrated holy qurbana earlier at St. Thomas Church.
John Kunnathu
Houston Area Inspector

VADAKKAMCHERY APRIL 18, 2002The fasting and prayer in protest against the take over of Mangalam Dam, and Erukumchira St.Mary's Church by RDO, was stopped by Thomas Mar Divanasios.

The Jacobite Managing Committee assembled here at Mangalam Dam decided to conduct an explanation meeting at Kothamangalam on 21st and at Kottayam on 28th of this month. After this explanation meetings, they will arrange the meetings in other Parishes.

The fasting was stopped by Thomas Mar Divanasios since he received an assurance from Govt.Authorities that they will not interfere in the problems of these churches till the verdict of Supreme Court.

Hon.Minister of States Mr.T.M.Jacob informed the cabinet decision to Thomas Mar Divanasios .The prayer will continue in these churches and a 25 member committee is elected to conduct the prayer and fasting.

The patriarch section extended their sincere thanks to the Chief Minister A.K.Antony, UDF Convenor Oommen Chandy, Minister T.M.Jacob and P.P.Thankachan.

At the same time Usha Titus, District Collector of Palakkad denied the report of order issued for the locking of above reffered churches.

TRIVANDRUM APRIL 18, 2002In the Malankara Syrian Church case the Court verdict should be implemented by the Govt.Authorities, said Catholicos Mathews Mar Baselios. The action done by Govt.about the Erikkumchira St.Mary's church is not acceptable to Catholicos section.

As per the verdict of the Supreme Court the priest of the above church attended the Association Meeting at Parumala on 20th March and this doesn't mean that Patriarch Section should punish the vicar of that church.

Those who entered the church for fasting is not the right way for peace and the church under Trissur Metropolitan should be obeyed, his instruction. Said Catholicos in his statement.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING TOPICS FOR THE 2002 GENERAL ASSIGNED COMPETITIONS: THE DEADLINE TO SEND IS MAY 31ST.

Guidelines:
Parish/Sunday School Level: Each Sunday School may conduct its own competition to select participants for the Area level competition. At the local level, each student may compete individually. The format for the Diocesan-level competition (see below) is recommended for local competition as well, but not required. If written examination is conducted to select the winners, the grading must be conducted in a timely manner. A team of not more than 5 students may be sent to compete in the area level competition.

Area-Level: The format for the Diocesan-level competition (see below) is recommended for area level competition. (This will help to make the competition lively and interesting and to educate the audience as well). It is not necessary to declare the winners immediately following the competition. So written examination is definitely an option. However, at the final diocesan level competition, the winners will be declared immediately following the competition. Regional/Diocesan Level:

NOTES:

(Sample topics for items 11, 12, and 13: Environmental issues and the role of the church; Global warming; Energy issues; Population growth and the role of the church; Family life in the 21st century; World poverty and our Church; Church and State relationship; Role of Women in our Church; Altar Assistants; Religion and Culture; Values in Education; Cultural Identity Issues; the Earth's Atmosphere; Responsible Caring and Equitable Sharing for a Global Commons; History of our Denomination; Constitution of our Church; Spiritual duties of an Orthodox child; Who and Why to receive Holy Communion, etc.)

NOTE: Recognize and reward the individual who wins the most competitions in Local, Area, and Regional/Diocesan levels: Institute Rolling Trophy, Trophy for 1st and 2nd, as well as the OVERALL champion of the year.

KOTTAYAM: 33rd annual conference of Akhila Malankara Orthodox Martha Mariam Vanitha Samajam (International Indian Orthodox Women's Association) will be held at Kottayam, India on 30th April to 4th May, 2002. Leaders training camp also will be held along with the conference.

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Mathews II, the Catholicose of the East, H.G. Paulose Mar Pachomios Metropolitan (President of the Martha Mariam Vanitha Samajam), Rev.Fr. E.K.George (Vice President of the MVS), Rev.Fr. Abraham Korah (Vice President of the Kottayam Central Diocese MVS), Rev.Fr. C.J. Punnoose (Vicar, Elia Cathedral), Rev. Fr. Joseph Samuel Karukayil (Trivandrum), Rev.Fr. Dr. T. Markose Joseph (Pathanapuram), Rev.Fr.Dr. Mathew Baby (OTS), Rev.Fr. Mathew Abraham (Thalavoor), Rev.Fr. John Thomas Karingattil (Orthodox Theological Seminary), Brother Paul Ciniraj (Malankara Orthodox Church Missionary, Kottayam), Prof. (Mrs) Mary Mathew (Baselios College, Kottayam), Miss. Annamma Philipose (BEd College, Thottacadu), Mrs.Grace Lal (Family Life Centre, Changanassery), Mrs. Mariamma John (Delhi), Mrs. Kunjamma Jacob, Mrs. Mariamma Samuel (General Secretary of the Balika Samajam), Mrs. Accamma Paul (General Secretary of the MVS) will be the distinguished leaders of the conference and the training camp.

"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit" (Psalms 34:18) is the devotional thought of the conference.

New Delhi March 11,2002:As per scheduled 20th March the Association can be conducted now. The court has not given any objection in conducting the Association to decide Baselious Mathews II as Metropolitan of Malankara Church and the election of 37 priests and 74 lays to the Malankara Association.

The appeal filed by Patriarch section for extending the date of Association meeting was withdrawn by them along with other two demands. The rest of the appeals are postponed by the Supreme Court to hear on 15th April.

FOUR EPISCOPOS OF MALANKARA ORTHODOX CHURCH EXALTED AS METROPOLITANS

His Holiness Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Malankara Metropolitan and Catholicos of the East exalted four Bishops of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church to the position of Metropolitan on 27-8-02. Aboon Job Mar Philoxinos of Delhi, Aboon Geevarghese Mar Coorilos of Mumbai, Aboon Paulose Mar Pachomios of Ankamaly – Mavelikara, and Aboon Jacob Mar Irenius of Chennai Dioceses were declared "Oxios" by the solemn declaration that for the Church of God in the Orient each of them are Oxios – Oxios – Oxios; Yogyan – Yogyan – Yogyan, lifting them on the 'Throne'.

Celebration of this auspicious occasion was started after the Holy Qurbana offered in the Catholicate Aramana Chappal, Devalokam by His Holiness, assisted by Their Grace Geevarghese Mar Osthathios, Thomas Mar Thimothios, Mathews Mar Severios, Thomas Mar Athanasios, Mathews Mar Epiphanios, Zachariah Mar Anthonios. Their Grace Dr. Abraham Severios, Philipose Mar Eusebios were also present.

Followed by the reading of Gospel by the New Metropolitans, the Symbol of Apostolic Authority, 'Amsavadi' was presented to each of them. The concluding part of the ceremony was the Sthathicon – the Article of Authority read to them by His Holiness. The Holy Qurbana was concluded by the senior most among the four new Metropolitans, Aboon Job Mar Philoxinos.

New Metropolitans were felicitated by the Senior Metropolitans and Sabha Secretary Dr. Alexander Karckal. In the speech given by Mathews Mar Epiphanios, H.G. emphasized that the new Metropolitans are the gift of God given to the Church and that could occur by a greater gift given by God through the verdict of the Hon.Spreme Court. He stressed the point that, as per the verdict of Hon. Supreme Court of India, there is only one Orthodox Church in India and its Head is Catholicos H.H.Basalios Marthoma Mathews II. In the reply speech by the New Metropolitans, they reiterated their allegiance with Devalokam as the Spirit of Malankara Orthodox Church is bestowed upon it.

MALANKARA ORTHODOX CHURCH
REALIZE THE TRUTH, EXECUTE JUSTICE AND ESTABLISH PEACE
PROF. E.J. JOHN PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

1. There is only one Malankara Orthodox Church. The rule of the Malankara Church should be in accordance with the church constitution of 1934
In the light of the final judgement and decree of the Hon. Supreme Court of India in 1995 and the subsequent orders, it has been established in unquestionable terms that there is only one Malankara Orthodox Church (Sabha) and it's Dioceses, Parish Churches, Institutions and organization should be loyal of the constitution of 1934 of the Malankara Orthodox Sabha and should be ruled according to the constitution.

2. The title of 'Malankara Metropolitan' of the Prime Supreme Head of the Malankara Orthodox Church can not be questioned.
As per the orders of the Supreme Court dated 12-7-02 it has been approved and declared undoubtedly that all should regard His Holiness Marthoma Mathews II Catholicos, as Malankara Metropolitan as well, and it is not liable to be questioned in any court of law or in any forum.

3. The actions of the decedent faction in the church is a challenge to the rule of laws of India..
With disregard to the judgement of the Supreme Court and against the church constitution of 1934, the decedent group has declared the formation of a new church, a new constitution and a rival catholicos , consecrating Devennasios as Baselios Thomas I. This is the challenge to the rule of law of the land and contempt of court. Decedent group cannot claim any of the 1662 Parishes of the Malankara Orthodox Church. All these have since been included in the list of the Malankara Suriyani Christian Association and approved by the Supreme Court

4. Unconstitutionally concerted catholicose and others have been declared unlawful ..
The Hon. Kerala High Court in 1990 had issued orders declaring Mar Devennasios and others perpetual unlawful and debarring them and the Hon. Supreme Court in 1995 had approved it and included in the Decree that Mar Devannasios was not lawfully concerted Metropolitan and he had no right to enter in any of the Churches of the Malankara Sabha or to perform sacramental and rituals. Moreover, the Sub court of Mavelikara in 2001 March 7, the Muncif Court of Chengannore in 2002 July 24 and the Eranakulam Church Court in 2002 August 3 have issued orders debarring Devannasios entering in the Parish Churches of the Malankara Sabha and to function as Catholicos.

5. Execute the court orders and do justice .
It is the duty of the government to execute the court orders and prevent the unlawful entry, encroachment, and violence by the decedent group-a duty and the responsibility of the Government in accordance with the constitution of India

6. Malankara Sabha strongly protest against the inaction and passive attitude of the Government. .
It is the demand of the Malanakara Orthodox Church that the court orders should be executed and Justices done. It is the right of the Church and not a favor. If the Government is not acting upon it, there will be far reaching consequence for which the Government alone will be responsible, we warn.

7. We shall preserve the Orthodox faith and rituals of the Church. .
The Christians all over the world know and believe that St. Thomas is the founder of the Malankara Church. All Christian denominations of India also believe and approve of it. This is a historical truth. The Prime Supreme head of the Malankara Orthodox Church, founded by St. Thomas, Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews II have been approved and declared as such by the have been approved and declared as such by the Hon. Supreme Court of India. we, the faith full of the ancient Malankara Orthodox Church do solemnly pledge that we shall preserve the faith paternity and tradition of our church.

Catholicate Office PRO: E.J. John
Devlokam P.O.,
5-8-2002

DEVALOKAM RELEASE
THE MALANKARA ORTHODOX SYRIAN CHURCH
STATUS OF PARISH CHURCHES AND NATURE OF PARISH PROPERTIES

1. The parish Churches of Malankara Church are founded and established as constituents of the Malankara Church. Parish Churches are not intended and cannot have an independent existence apart from the Sabha and the administration of the Sabha. If so the general accepted rules of administration the Sabha are applicable to their administration. Such rules of administration are embodied in the 1934 Constitution of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. It is thus authoritatively laid down by the Supreme Court of India. See in this connection Para 142 of the Judgement reported in AIR 1995 SC 2001.

2. In almost all the suits the matter in issue is only, the mode of administration of parishes and who are the competent persons to be in management of the properties and assets of the parish churches. The question of ownership or legal nature of the parish assets vis a vis their title is not a mater that arises really. In the main suit O.S.4/1979 of the Kerala High Court which was decided by the Hon'ble Supreme Court also, the mode of administration of parish properties and the nature and status of parish churches as constituents of the Malankara Church alone were in dispute.

3. See in this connection, the reliefs prayed for in the said suit as extracted in para 132 of the judgment of the Supreme Court.
See – A- relief specifically noted below:
"A- To declare that Malankara Church is Episcopal in character and is not a Union or Federation of autonomous church units and is governed in its administration by the Constitution of the Malankara Church."

4. The scheme and provisions of the Constitution make it beyond doubt that parish churches are not autonomous units. So when constitution if fully upheld by the Hon'ble Supreme Court and when it is declared to be binding on parish churches also, this relief is in effect granted by the Hon'ble Supreme Court.

5. Apart from other references in this regard read para 142 of the Supreme Court Judgement – 142(5) (6) (8) 142 (8) is of prime importance in this matter.

"(8) So far as the declaration of the Malankara Church being Episcopal in character is concerned all we need hold is that it is Episcopal to the extent it is so declared in the 1934 constitution. The said constitution also governs the affairs of the parish churches and shall prevail"

The said finding in effect is really a grant of the declaration sought for in "A" relief in the plaint as extracted above.

6. The Kerala High Court by the judgement of the Division bench decreed the suit O.S.4/1979 as prayer for. This decree is only modified if at all by the Supreme Court as per the findings in para 142. Those finding do not go against the Kerala Division Bench decree but really affirms it in this matter. The vexed question of ownership of the parish properties or what is the real nature and legal character of parish properties need not be gone into so far the church dispute suits are concerned.

7. The observation in the Hon'ble supreme Court Judgement in para 141 have to be understood in the above back ground. The discussion clearly shows that the court is not really deciding and it is not also necessary to be decided as per the pleading of the case, the ownership of the parish assets. See in this connectio the following statement "Without impleading affected parties on declaration can be claimed by the plaintiffs that the Church is Episcopal in nature"

But necessarily the Episcopal powers so far as stated in the Constitution are up held. See, what Supreme Court says in the same para. "In the state of such pleading, the only observation that can be made herein is that the 1934 Constitution shall govern and regulate the affairs of parish churches too, in so far as the said constitution provides for the same. "Again it is said" In sum we observe that the 1934 Constitution governs the affairs of the Parish Churches too in so far as it does".

8. The two Hon'ble Judges namely justice B.P Jeevan Reddy and Justice S.C. Sen did not decide as to the title to parish properties or their ownership or legal character because it does not arise in the pleading and cannot be decided without impleading affected parties; probably the parish churches as such. So their judgement cannot be relied on to say that parish churches are independent autonomous units and title and ownership of parish properties vest with parishioners with a consequent right to administer the parish properties as they want and desire. In fact it is clearly stated that 1934 constitution governs their administration. In the 1934 constitution Chapter2, The Parish Church, Clauses 6 to 44 clearly show how Parish Churches are to be administered.

9. As to what exactly is a parish and the nature and legal character of parish properties is considered in detail by Hon'ble Justice R.M. Sahai the Presiding Judge in paragraphs 58 to 74. See the end of para 74. "But once a church is established then the property vests in the endowment and it becomes a public charity, the administration and control of which has to be governed in accordance with the objective of the endowment". It is also clearly stated that, "they cannot claim to be independent especially after the Constitution of 1934 was framed".?

It necessarily follows that Parish assets are dedicated trust properties to be utilised for worship and to ensure spiritual benefits to the parishioners; of course with the ultimate endowment being with the Malankara Sabha as postulated in the Constitution.

10. Parish Churches are included in various Dioceses of the Church, each under the control of a Diocesan Metropolitan. Clauses 66 and 94 of the 1934 Constitution are noted below in this connection.

66. The Diocesan Metropolitans shall carry on the administration of the Dioceses under their care subject to the supervision of the Malankara Metropolitan.

94. The jurisdiction regarding the temporal, ecclesiastical and spiritual administration of the Malankara Church is vested in the Malankara Metropolitan subject to the provisions of this constitution.

11. The important points to be noted are:

1. Parish Churches are constituent units of the Malankara Church
2. Parish Churches are bound by the 1934 Constitution and are not independent?
3. Parish Churches have to be administered as per clauses 6 to 44 of the 1934 Constitution.

Catholicate Office
Devalokam, Kottayam.

Pathanamthitta 1/10/2002 : The Metropolitan the Great of the East passed away. Dr. Abraham Mar Climis 84, the head of the Cananaya Diocese of the Syrian Church called to rest on 29th September at 11.10 pm. He was under treatment for liver ailment at Lissy hospital Ernakulam. The body of the pontiff was brought to Chingavanam on 30th morning. The last rite services held today at 4 pm. St. John's Dayara Church Chingavanam. He has the record of long-lived Metropolitan in India. Hither to this honour was in the name of His Holiness Baselius Geevarghese II. Catholios of the East. Metropolitan Julius Yesu Shishak of the Middle East represented The Patriarch.

Upon hearing the news of his demise, people from all walk of life, political leaders Metropolitans and Bishop of different Churches and believers gathered to give their respect to the departed spiritual leader. Abraham Mar Climis was born on April 22, 1918 at Ranni to Vaila Iduculla - Pennamma couple as their sixth Child. Hailing from a family of political heritage, he was ordained Deacon in 1932 by patriarch Elias III and in 1947 he became a priest. On April 15, 1951 he was consecrated Metropolitan in Holms in Syria by his Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Aprem Ist

Malankara Syrian Catholics celebrate the 72nd anniversary of reunion. It is the commemoration of joining the catholic faith of a group of believers under the leadership of the Bethany Metropolitan Mar Ivanios of the Malankara Orthodox Church.

On 20th September 1930 Geevarghese Mar Ivanios, Yakob Mar Theophilos, Fr. John O.I.C and Dn. Searphian, together with a group of believers embraced Roman faith at Kollam Aramana Chappel, taking oath before Arch Bishop Allocius Mariya Bensigar. Pope Pious XI granted Syrian Rite in 1933.

Mar Ivanios was exalted as Metropolitan of Trivandrum Diocese, and Mar Yakob Theophilose as the Metropolitan of Tiruvalla Dioceses. There after two more Dioceses came in existence, Bathery in 1978 and Marthandum in 1996. Present Diocesan Metropolitans are Arch Bishop Cyril Mar Baselius(Thiruvananthapuram), Geeverghese Mar Timotius (Tiruvalla) ,Geeverghese Mar Devenasius (Betheri), Yohanon Mar Chrisostom (Marthandam). Thomas Mar Kurilose, Joshua Mar Ignatius and Isaac Mar Clemis are assistant Bishops of the Dioceses. The Malankara Rite had the fortune of being lend by Arch Bishop Benedict Mar Gregorius, Thomas Mar Dioscoros, Joseph Mar Athanasius, Issac Mar Yohanon, Poulos Mar Philexinos and Loureanz Mar Aprem.

Mallappally, 21 Sept.2002 The safeguard of the Church lies in the hands of the Laity, the defenders of faith of the church said Arch Bishop Dr. Cyril Mar Baselios in His inaugural speech at the National Assembly of the Laity at Mar Ivanios Nagar, Chengarror in connection with the 72nd anniversary of reunion. M.C.A president P.V Thomas presided.

Geeverghese Mar Thimothios was felicitated at His Golden Jubilee of priesthood. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Dynasius inaugurated the National Youth Convention and MCYM President V.C Georgekutty presided. The Arch Bishop also inaugurated the Golden Jubilee of Legion of Mary Trivalla Commissium. Geevarghese Mar Thimothios presided and Hon. Minister C.F. Thomas delivered the jubilee message.

Mallappally: Only through the relation with the Church universal, the real peace could be achieved, said Dr. Joshua Mar Ignatius the secretary of Kerala Catholic Bishops Council and the assistant Metropolitan of Trivandrum Diocese.

Malankara Catholics remember the reunion with gratitude. Other Churches of the Malankara Church tradition and life also should come to the communion of the World Church. There are two responsibilities before the Malankara Catholic Church- the reunion of the Christian Churches and world evangelism.

Trivandrum: Malankara Syrian Catholic ArchBishop Cyril Mar Basalios had appointed Kochurani Joseph as one of the Vice Presidents of the The Catholic Council of India.

Kochurani is of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. She is appointed to fill the post as it went vacant as the current bearer of the Post Aurelia Pais quited from position. Pais was elected in last January for a four-year term.

H.G.Cyril Mar Basalios is the President of the Catholic Council. The council has representations of Bishops, Clergies and Laity and addresses the Key issues of the Church.

DEVALOKAM RELEASE
FEW CRUCIAL POINTS IN THE REPORT OF THE OBSERVER, JUSTICE V.S. MALIMATH

A few important points and findings in the report of the Observer, Justice Mr. V.S. Malimath, submitted to the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India regarding the Malankara Syrian Christian Association Meeting held on 20-3-2002

PARA NO:30
It is unfortunate that the respondent and others belonging to the Patriarch faction did not participate. It was announced in the papers that they have decided to boycott the election. The newspapers reported about the respondent and his supporters holding a meeting on the same day at another place. The respondent being a party to the consent order passed by the Supreme Court was expected to participate and cooperate in implementing the order of the Supreme Court. The conduct of the Respondent invites adverse inference against him.

PARA NO:31 Election to the Managing Committee :
Election to the Managing Committee is regulated by part 5 of the election rules. Whereas the Association fixes the total number of member of the Managing Committee, the number of members to be elected from each Dioceses is fixed by the Managing Committee. All the Dioceses were invited to nominate candidates for election to the Managing Committee to be held at the Association meeting. For this purpose the meeting of the Association namely of all the representatives elected from the parish Churches of the Diocese was convened at Parumala on 20-3-2002. The number of nominations received in respect of each Diocese was equal to the number of members to be elected from each Diocese. None had complained about the validity of the nominations received. Therefore all the candidates were elected unopposed from all the Dioceses. At the meeting held on 20-3-2002 the names of the elected members of the Managing Committee were read out. This consisted of 37 Priests and 74 Laymen whose names are furnished Diocese wise in Annexure 38. I am satisfied that the election to the Managing Committee was proper. The report furnished by the appellant in this behalf is Annexure-40

PARA NO:32 My findings are as follows:

Catholicate Office
Devalokam
Kottayam - 686 038

His Holiness Abune Filipos, the first Patriarch of Eritrean Orthodox Church, passed away after a short ailment on September 18, 2002. His Holiness Abuna Filipos died of natural death in Asmara, Eritrea at the age of 101. His holiness Abuna Filipos was born on September 27, 1901 in the village of Enadeko, southern part of Eritrea. The first patriarch of Eritrea, his holiness Abuna Filipos, served the Church for many years with patience and great responsibility. He served as a monk and abbot of the Bizen monastry for years. He became archbishop, and on May 7, 1998 he was anointed as first Patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Church by His Holiness Abuna Shenoda III, Pope and Patriarch of St. Mark of Egypt.

The body of His Holiness Abune Filipos, first Patriarch of the Erirean Orthodox Church, was laid to rest on Saturday, September 21, 2002 at Debre Bizen monastery one of the oldest monasteries in Eritrea, in which he first acquired his monkship.

On Friday, September 20, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III officiated requiem mass for His Holiness Abune Filipos at St. Mary Church in Asmara in the presence of thousands of people including President Isaias Afewerki, Ministers, diplomats, senior officials, and dignitaries.

Thousands of people saw him off at Asmara, Eritrea, and many others including President Isaias Afewerki, ministers and commanders, Eritrean religious leaders, and bishops and metropolitans of the Coptic Orthodox Church attended the funeral ceromony.

All the Eritrean Orthodox Churches in USA and Canada held requiem mass for his holiness Abuna Filipos on Sunday September 22, 2002. Many believers attended the requiem mass in their respected churches today. es.
[Source: Eritrean Church]

All Indian Catholic Churches are jointly going to celebrate the 1950th anniversary of arrival of St.Thomas in India and 450th death anniversary of St.Francis Xavior on 16-17 November 2002. The President of India Dr.Abdul Kalam will be the Chief Guest. The Celebrations were planned jointly by the Catholic Bishop Conference of India and Kerala Catholic Bisop Conference. The Cardinal Mar Varkey Vidayathil inaugurated the jubilee celebrations at Palarivattom where from the Jubille Committee Office will be functioning. Cardinal Mar Varkey Vidayathil, Arch Bishop Cyril Mar Baselios and Most Rev. Daniel Acharuparampil will be the Patrons of the Committee. Kerala Chief Minister also will be participating the celebrations.

The last Jubilee Celebrations conducted was in Kochi during 1952. As part of the celebrations a historical seminar with main theme 'Christian contribution for Indian culture' will be conducted under the leadership of Mar Thomas Chackyathu.Papal delegate will be celebrating the Holy Mass on 16th November at Marine Drive.

Pathanamthitta: The Thumpamon diocese council and the Managing Committee of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has condemned the reported attack on Fr. Elias Cherukad, priest of the Aroor Marygiri St Mary's Orthodox Church, near Muvattupuzha, on Sunday night.

In a statement here today, the diocesan secretary, Fr. Titus George, said a meeting of the Church authorities held at the Basil Diara here today also condemned the attack on the Orthodox churches at Paliyekkara and Kattappuram and the MGM Higher Secondary School in Thiruvalla, allegedly by the opposing Jacobite faction on Sunday evening.

The meeting urged the Government to take strong action against the culprits.

Pathanamthitta, Sept 15 : Malanakara Orthodox Syrian Church celebrated the Ninetieth Year Jubilee of the institution of the Catholicate of the East in India.

Addressing a gathering of tens of thousands of believers, His Holiness Moron Mor Baselius Marthoma Mathews - II, the Catholicose of the East of the See of St. Thomas and The Malanakara Metropolitan said that with the installation of the Catholicate in Malanakara in the year 1912, the autocephaly of the church here was established, which has the absolute acceptance of the world Christendom and now, by the verdict of the Hon. Supreme Court of India, it has been reiterated that the Catholicose was the only head of the Malankara Church.

In welcoming His Holiness and other Metropolitans of the church and dignitaries, His Grace Philipos Mar Eusebius, the Diocesan Metropolitan of Thumpamon said that the Catholicate of the East was instituted by the Apostle St. Thomas and that it was not a gift of the Syrian Patriarch. As per the Cannon, the Patriarch of Antioch has no lawful authority to consecrate a Bishop without the consent of the Catholicose and the 'Malankara Suriani Christiani Association' in session.

His beatitude Thomas Mar Thimothios, the Catholicose designate presided over the function. Metropolitans Dr. Mathews Mar Severius and Dr. Thomas Mar. Athanasius of the Kandanad diocese deliberated the present position of the Church and its standpoints in the controvesy of 'unlawful appointment' of a rival Catholicose without proper Canonical consecration. Sabha Secretary Dr. Alexander Karackel and Prof Fr. P. T. John Panarayil also spoke on the occasion.

The assembly passed by applause a resolution of Faith on the Catholicose and a resolution of Protest against the negative attitude of the Govt. of Kerala in executing the verdict of the Hon.Supreme Court which is in favour of the Malankara Orthodox Church. The function was preceded by a thickly attended strong protest rally under the auspice of the 119 Parishes of the Diocese of Thumpamon.

Day to day peace and communal harmony is becoming only a dream of every peace loving citizen of India. How many people's life had been brutally taken away on this particular cause. This situation has been aggravated with the recent infiltration of terrorism to the religious arena of our country. It is the utmost duty of every citizen of India irrespective of their state, caste or religion to think about this alarming state of our country and contribute with all the resources for peaceful tommorow for our country.

Rev.Dr.Valsan Thampu who is minority commission member of Delhi, report on the peace march effort planned:

'I am writing this on the eve of my departure for Lucknow , together with a whole lot of other people, to launch what would have been a peace march from Ayodhya to Raj Ghat, about which some of you are already aware. Now the peace march stands curtailed to Lucknow à Raj Ghat. The reason is that the District Magistrate of Fazabad, Shri. Alok Kumar, has banned the peace marchers from entering Ayodhya and has slapped section 144 on Ayodhya and Faizabad. The stated pretext is that this peace march is a threat to communal harmony in Ayodhya! I do not have to tell you stories about how the administration in that blessed district has been safeguarding communal harmony in Ayodhya or how that holy city has emerged in recent times as a symbol of peace and harmony, thanks to the impartial administration obtained their.

Be that as it may, this is an eye-opener, especially in the light of the Gaurav Yatra undertaken by Shri. Narendra Modi in Gujarat. In the wake of the worst communal atrocity that the state of the Mahatma has ever seen, and flying in the face of the pleas and protests of every sensible citizen in the country, the march of the communal juggernaut has gone on without let or hindrance for so many days. In Ayodhya, as most of us still remember, sadhus and politicians of a certain description were allowed to enact the tragic-comedy of the shila daan, which was not only a bad mark on the communal profile of that city, but also a slur on the secular image of the country as a whole. But we have reached, it seems, a stage in the evolution of our nation in which democratic ideals like equality of citizens in the eye of the law or secular ideal like equal treatment of all religions by the State are becoming obsolete

Let us return to the peace march and see how subversive this is meant to be. The former President of India, Shri. K. R. Narayanan is the Patron-in-Chief of this Peace March, called Mil ke Chalo (let us move together). As the name suggests, the march is the embodiment of the people's aspiration to be united rather than divided. Former Prime Ministers Shri. Chandra Sekhar, Shri. V. P. Singh and Shri. I. K. Gujral are among the patrons. A large number of Hindu sadhus and dharmacharyas as among the Peace Pilgrims. Leaders of all religions as well eminent citizens are participating in the march. In Delhi, thousands of school children will join the march and take a pledge to live and work for peace and harmony in the society. In the judgment of the Faizabad administration, all these are subversive.

When the DM banned the peace march, I made representations to Ms. Mayawati, the Chief Minister of UP as well as to Shri. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the poet-Prime Minister of India, pleading for their intervention. I have met with a deafening silence. The most painful irony of contemporary India is that those who represent the aspiration of the dalits, the oppressed people, have become the handmaidens of those they have seen till the other day as their oppressors. In the end it is not one Alok Kumar, it is Ms. Mayawati who must hold responsible for the banning of peace marches and efforts to promote communal harmony in the state.

In the of this concrete experience, I wish to appeal to all of you to shake of the slough of apathy and complacency and do all you can to form local networks (necessarily multi-religious) to promote peace and harmony in our neighbourhoods. If we believe that we can leave this task to politicians, of all the people we shall be the most foolish. All through history, it is war and not peace that has enabled the ruling elite to prosper and secure their stranglehold on power. But peace is basic to the welfare of the people. That is our commitment: a commitment that we can share with all people.

If only you would something on Gandhi Jayanti Day (October 2nd) to celebrate people's preference for peace and communal harmony, you would have done something to discourage the dreams of the oppressors. Sometimes small public expressions become the storms that uproot seemingly mighty trees.

A crucial sector of involvement is schools. The communal and aggressive ideologies are targeting schools in a big way. Doors are open even today for us to do the damage-control work in this sector. In the last three months, I have had the occasion to address thousands of students, teachers and parents and the responses I have had, barring a few, are positive and encouraging. It is alarming how little people think for themselves and how much they depend on mere opinions. So far this vulnerability has been exploited only by the communal forces and they have made significant in-roads. Those who believe in peace and good will must engage this battle on the side of sanity and peace. There is much that we can do still; let us do it where it is still possible for us to do something. We do not know how long this freedom will last. My experiences in working on the peace march make me inclined to believe that we are closer to the precipice than we imagine.