Respected Principal, Beloved Teachers, Dear Parents, and my fellow students,
Introduction
I stand here at this school assembly looking at the faces of young students who are the future of our country, India. There is much potential, talent, and energy in all of you. With discipline and creativity, imagination and enthusiasm, dream and drive; there is no limit to what each one of you can achieve. But sadly, today, there is a cloud that seems to darken this brightness; it is the menace of drug addiction. So let me start off this campaign by having all of you say no to drugs.
The other part of that slogan should be, “Say Yes to Life.” When saying yes to life, let me share a word of wisdom to all the stakeholders here.:To teachers, parents, as well as students.
Teachers
First of all, let me talk to our teachers. You constantly shine a light on our paths. You encourage us. We are grateful to you for that. But beyond this let me ask one more thing from you. Do not compare us with others. Do not compare our marks or our appearance.
What we expect from you is a word of appreciation. A good word of encouragement can go a long way in building our self-esteem. Give us a word of hope that in spite of our failures and mistakes we are going to make it. Perhaps the confidence you can give us, the trust you show us can in the long run help us say no to drugs than anything else.
Parents
Now let me to talk to our parents. You have made life possible for us. You have given us love and care and affection. You have given us great learning opportunities. We are here today only because of you. But there is one mistake that many parents make. You give the best toys and gadgets for your kids. You give money for their needs.
But how much of your time do you give them? Do you know the best gift you can give them is your unhurried time; your willingness to listen to them; and maybe play with them when you get a chance. Young children grow fast. And when you realize that time has flown; they will be already adults like you. Then it will be too late.
Many children turn to drugs because they seek love and acceptance they did not get at home. So they find it difficult to avoid the peer pressure and fail to say no to drugs.
Students
Now at last, let me to talk to you my friends. There is only one life. When you are young it is the springtime of life when everything is in bloom. But there are predators everywhere. They are those who seek to drain away the nectar of your life by luring you with the temptation of entertainment, pleasure, easy money and the like.
Always know that drugs come into your life to steal, kill, and destroy. It will hook you, addict you to a path of misery, and make a wreck of your mind, body, and soul.
Those who peddle drugs will make it look attractive and even innocent. But hidden behind could be the arm of mafias and terrorist outfits who have no respect for life. Know that their only aim is money by making you compromise your bright future by trading it off for illegal enjoyment the present moment.
Therefore think long-term. Think of the people who love you. Do not bring them to tears. Say no to drugs.
Conclusion
Let me end now. Even when you’ve made a mistake by chance or choice or by being forced, there is always a U-turn possible. Keep up hope. It takes courage to return and you can. It is like the prodigal son returning home to his father’s love after having wasted all his possessions in wild living.
Therefore, let me urge you once again, if there is anyone who has taken the wrong step already; it is not too late. Say no to drugs and return to life and there will certainly be a future for you.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ധന്യമായ ജീവിതത്തെ ആസ്പദമാക്കി “ദൈവവിളിയോടു വിശ്വസ്‌തത പുലർത്തിയ എളിയ ദാസൻ” എന്ന തലക്കെട്ടിൽ ദക്ഷിണ കേരള മഹായിടവകയുടെ ഔദ്യോഗിക പ്രസിദ്ധികരണമായ ക്രൈസ്തവ ദീപികയിൽ ജൂലൈ 2013ൽ പ്രസിദ്ധികരിച്ച ലേഖനം തുടർന്ന് വായിക്കുക.
സാധാരണക്കാരനായ ഒരു മനുഷ്യന്റെ ജീവിതം ദൈവവിളിക്കു വിധേയപ്പെടുമ്പോൾ ഉണ്ടാകുന്ന അതിശയകരമായ ഉയർച്ചയുടേയും ദൈവ നടത്തിപ്പിന്റെയും നേർ സാക്ഷ്യമാണ് യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ജീവിതം.
ദൈവവചനത്തിൽ അടിസ്ഥാനപ്പെടുത്തി പ്രാർത്ഥനയിൽ ശക്തി പ്രാപിച് ആരാധനയിൽ ആനന്ദം കണ്ടെത്തി പാവപ്പെട്ടവരുടെ കണ്ണീരൊപ്പുവാൻ വേണ്ടി ഉഴിഞ്ഞു വച്ചതായിരുന്നു അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ജീവിതം.
പ്രവർത്തിച്ച മേഖലകളിലെല്ലാം ദൈവ കൃപയിൽ ആശ്രയിച്ച് വിജയം നേടാൻ കഴിഞ്ഞത് ഒരു വ്യക്തിയുടെ മാത്രം ചരിത്രമല്ല മറിച് അദ്ദേഹത്തോടൊപ്പം വളർന്ന് സമൂഹത്തിന്റെ മുഖ്യധാരയിലേക്കു പ്രവേശിക്കുവാൻ ധൈര്യം ലഭിച്ച ഒരു ജനവിഭാഗത്തിന്റെ ചരിത്രം കൂടിയാണ്.
ലഭിച്ച ഉന്നതമായ സ്ഥാനമാനങ്ങളെല്ലാം തന്നെ പാവപ്പെട്ട ജനവിഭാഗങ്ങളുടെ ഉന്നമനത്തിനു വേണ്ടി അദ്ദേഹം പ്രയോജനപ്പെടുത്തി. യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനി എന്ന നാമധേയം സാധാരണക്കാരായ മനുഷ്യർ ഹൃദയത്തോടു ചേർത്തു പിടിച്ചതിൻറെ രഹസ്യം ഇതു തന്നെയായിരുന്നു.
സുവിശേഷം ചെല്ലുന്ന സ്ഥലങ്ങളിലൊക്കെയും ദൈവാത്മാവിന്റെ പ്രവർത്തനമുണ്ടാകുന്നുവെന്നും അതു സമൂഹത്തിലെ അനീതികൾക്കും അനാചാരങ്ങൾക്കുമെതിരായ പോരാട്ടമായി മാറുന്നുവെന്നും തിരുമേനി ഉറച്ചിരുന്നു. സഭ ക്രിസ്തുവിന്റെ ശരീരമാന്നെന്നും അതിലെ ഒരു അംഗത്തിനു വരുന്ന പ്രയാസം എല്ലാവരുടെയും വേദനയാന്നെന്നുമുള്ള വിശാലമായ ദർശനം അദ്ദേഹത്തിനുണ്ടായിരുന്നു.
ഇതര സഭാവിഭാങ്ങളുമായി സഹകരിച്ചു പ്രവർത്തിക്കാവുന്ന മേഖലകൾ കണ്ടെത്താനും കൂട്ടായ പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങൾ പ്രോത്സാഹിപ്പിക്കുവാനും അതിനു നേതൃത്ത്വം കൊടുക്കുവാനും യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിക്കു സാധിച്ചു. കേരള ഐക്യ വൈദിക സെമിനാരി പ്രിൻസിപ്പൽ, [നീണ്ട 17 വർഷം] ദക്ഷിണ കേരളം മഹായിടവക ബിഷപ്പ്, ദക്ഷിണേന്ത്യ സഭയുടെ മോഡറേറ്റർ, സി. എസ്. ഐ.- സി. എൻ. ഐ. – മാർത്തോമ്മ ജോയിൻറ് കൗൺസിൽ ചെയർമാൻ, അഖില ലോക സഭാ കൗൺസിൽ സെൻട്രൽ കമ്മിറ്റി അംഗം എന്നി നിലകളിൽ അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ പ്രവർത്തനം സമാനതകളില്ലാത്തതായിരുന്നു.
മറ്റു മതസ്ഥരെ ബഹുമാനിച്ചിരുന്ന തിരുമേനിയെ അവരുടെ യോഗങ്ങളിൽ പ്രസംഗിക്കുവാൻ സന്തോഷത്തോടെ ക്ഷണിക്കുക പതിവായിരുന്നു. അങ്ങനെ മത സാമൂഹിക ബന്ധങ്ങളിൽ തിരുമേനി തന്റേതായ വ്യക്തിമുദ്ര പതിപ്പിക്കുകയും വ്യത്യസ്ത ജനവിഭാഗങ്ങളുമായുള്ള സൗഹൃദം ഊട്ടി ഉറപ്പിക്കുന്നതിൽ തനതായ സംഭാവന നൽകുകയും ചെയ്തു.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിക്കു വ്യക്തമായ രാഷ്ട്രീയ ബോധം ഉണ്ടായിരുന്നു. പാവപ്പെട്ട ജനങ്ങളുടെ ഉന്നമനത്തിന് വേണ്ടി പോരാടുകയും പാർശ്വവൽക്കരിക്കപ്പെട്ട ജനവിഭാഗങ്ങളുടെ നീതിക്കു വേണ്ടി ഉറച്ചു നിൽക്കുകയും ചെയ്യുക എന്നതായിരുന്നു അദ്ദേഹത്തിൻ്റെ രാഷ്ട്രീയം. രാഷ്ട്രീയ നേതാക്കളുമായി വ്യക്തിപരമായ ബന്ധം കാത്തു സൂക്ഷിക്കുകയും ജനങ്ങളുടെ നന്മക്കു വേണ്ടി അവരുടെ മുമ്പിൽ പ്രശ്നങ്ങളവതരിപ്പിക്കുകയും ചെയ്ത യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ നിലപാടുകൾ ഏറെ ശ്രദ്ധിക്കപ്പെട്ടവയായിരുന്നു.
കരിയിൽത്തോട്ടം കുടുംബത്തിലെ അംഗങ്ങൾക്ക് അദ്ദേഹം വലിയോരു തണൽമരമായി നിലകൊണ്ടു. നിർണായക തീരുമാനങ്ങളെടുക്കേണ്ടുന്ന സാഹചര്യങ്ങളിൽ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ആലോചനക്കും പ്രാർഥനക്കും വേണ്ടി കുടുംബാംഗങ്ങൾ കതോർക്കുകയും കാംഷിക്കുകയും ചെയ്തിരുന്നു.
വേദനയുടെയും വേർപാടിന്റെയും അവസരങ്ങളിൽ ആശ്വസിപ്പിക്കുന്ന ഒരു ദൈവദൂതനെ പോലെ കടന്നുവരികയും ഹൃദയ സ്പർശിയായ പ്രാർത്ഥനകളിലൂടെ ഏവർക്കും ധൈര്യം പകരുകയും ചെയ്ത സന്ദർഭങ്ങൾ അവിസ്മരണീയമാണ്. ഈ ശുശ്രൂഷ അനുഭവിച്ചറിഞ്ഞ ആരും അതു മറക്കുകയില്ല. തൻറെ ജീവിതത്തിൽ പ്രത്യേകമായി പ്രിയ പത്നി (ജസ്സി ബിയാട്രിസ് ) യുടെ വേർപാടിന്റെ അവസരത്തിലും തുടർന്നിങ്ങോട്ടും അനുഭവിക്കുവാൻ ഇടയായ ദൈവകൃപയുടെ ധാരാളമായ അനുഭവത്തെ കുറിച്ച് തിരുമേനി പറയുമായിരുന്നു.
സാധാരണക്കാരായ ജനങ്ങൾ തനിക്കുവേണ്ടി പ്രാർത്ഥിക്കുന്നത് തിരുമേനി വളരെയധികം സന്തോഷത്തോടെ ഇഷ്ടപ്പെട്ടിരുന്നു. പ്രഭാതത്തിനു മുൻപ് എഴുന്നേറ്റ് വേദപുസ്തക പാരായണം പ്രാർത്ഥന എന്നിവയിൽ സമയം ചിലവിടുന്നത് അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ചിട്ടയുടെ ഭാഗമായിരുന്നു. ആഴ്ചയിൽ ഒരു ദിവസം [വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച്ച ദിവസം] ഉപവാസം ആചരിക്കുന്നതു അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ശീലമായിരുന്നു.
ഈ നിഷ്ഠകൾ അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ശുശ്രൂഷയിൽ ശക്തമായ പ്രചോദനമായി മാറി. അതുകൊണ്ട് ദൈവം അദ്ദേഹത്തെ അത്ഭുതകരമായ രീതിയിൽ ഉയർത്തുകയും വിജയകരമായി നടത്തുകയും ചെയ്തു. ലഭിച്ച സ്ഥാനമാണങ്ങളൊന്നിൻറെയും പിന്നാലെ പോയതല്ല, മറിച്ചു അവ തിരുമേനിയെ തേടി വരുകയാണുണ്ടായത്.
ദൈവവചനത്തിൽ അധിഷ്ഠിതമായിരുന്നു യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ പ്രസംഗങ്ങൾ. ഇതിലൂടെ ജനങ്ങൾക്കാവശ്യമായ ആത്മീയ ശക്തി പകർന്നു നൽകുവാൻ അദ്ദേഹത്തിന് കഴിഞ്ഞിരുന്നു. ദൈവവചന ധ്യാനത്തിലൂടെ ലഭിച്ച ചിന്തകൾ പരിശുദ്ധാത്മ ശക്തിയിലും പ്രാർത്ഥനയുടെ കരുത്തിലും വ്യക്തതയോടെ അവതരിപ്പിക്കുവാൻ തിരുമേനിക്കു കഴിഞ്ഞിരുന്നു.
ലണ്ടൻ മിഷനറി സൊസൈറ്റിയുടെ (LMS) ഇരുന്നൂറാം (200th) വാർഷികം ഇംഗ്ലണ്ടിൽ വലിയോരു സമ്മേളനമായി നടത്തപ്പെട്ടപ്പോൾ മൂന്ന് പേർക്ക് മാത്രമേ പ്രസംഗിക്കുവാൻ അവസരം ലഭിച്ചുള്ളൂ. അതിലൊന്ന് യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയായിരുന്നു. മറ്റ് രണ്ടു പേർ ഇംഗ്ലണ്ടിലെ എലിസബത്ത് രാജ്ഞിയും മറ്റൊന്ന് ആഫ്രിക്കൻ ബിഷപ്പ് ഡെസ്മണ്ട് റ്റൂറ്റൂ എന്നിവരായിരുന്നു. മുഴുവൻ ഏഷ്യക്കാരെയും പ്രതിനിധീകരിക്കുവാൻ ദൈവം യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയെ ഉയർത്തിയ ഈ അവസരവും മാർക്കാനാവാത്തതുതന്നെ.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനി പല അവസരങ്ങളിലായി അനേകം ലേഖനങ്ങൾ എഴുതിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. അവയെല്ലാം തന്നെ ആഴമേറിയ ചിന്തകൾ കൊണ്ട് സമ്പുഷ്ടമാണ്.
“ഹിന്ദുമത പ്രവേശിക (1970),”
“മിഷനറി വീരനായ പൗലോസ് (1985),”
ക്രിസ്തു ജയന്തി (1990),”
“ക്രൂശിലെ മേലെഴുത്ത് (1992),”
“ഇത്ര വലിയ രക്ഷ (1998),”
“നീ വായിക്കുന്നത് ഗ്രഹിക്കുന്നുവോ (2000),
“പാതയ്ക്കു പ്രകാശം (2004),”
“രക്തം നിലവിളിക്കുന്നു (2006),
“മതപരിവർത്തനം—ഒരു ക്രൈസ്തവ സമീപനം (2008),” എന്നിവയാണ് യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ പ്രധാന കൃതികൾ. ഈ ഗ്രന്ഥങ്ങളിലെല്ലാം തന്നെ ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട വിഷയങ്ങൾ സമഗ്രമായി അപഗ്രഥിച്ചു അടുക്കും ചിട്ടയോടും കൂടി അവതരിപ്പിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്.
അദ്ദേഹം അവസാനം രചനയിലേർപ്പെട്ടിരുന്ന പുസ്തകം പൂർത്തിയാക്കണമെന്നത് തിരുമേനിയുടെ വലിയ ആഗ്രഹമായിരുന്നു. മേയ് 2013 – ൽ “പ്രവാചക ദൗത്യം ” എന്ന പുസ്തകം പ്രസിദ്ധീകരിച്ചു കാണുവാൻ ദൈവം അദ്ദേഹത്തിനു കൃപ നൽകി.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ഭരണനൈപുണ്യം ദക്ഷിണ കേരള മഹായിടവകയും ദക്ഷിണേന്ത്യ സഭയും രുചിച്ചറിഞ്ഞിട്ടുള്ളതാണ്. ദൈവഭയമുള്ള വ്യക്തികളെ കണ്ടെത്തി അവരുടെ കഴിവുകൾ പൂർണമായി സഭയ്‌ക്കു പ്രയോജനപ്പെടുന്ന താക്കോൽ സ്ഥാനങ്ങളിൽ പ്രതിഷ്ഠിച്ച് ഒരു നല്ല ടീം ആയി പ്രവർത്തിക്കുന്ന രീതി തിരുമേനിക്കുണ്ടായിരുന്നു. ദക്ഷിണ കേരള മഹായിടവകയിൽ വളരെയേറെ വികസന പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങൾക്കും അടിസ്ഥാനമിട്ടത് യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ഭരണ നേതൃത്യത്തിലായിരുന്നു.
യഥാർത്ഥമായ ജനാധിപത്യ മൂല്യങ്ങളെ ഉയർത്തി പിടിച്ചുകൊണ്ട് എല്ലാവരുടെയും ആശയങ്ങൾ ചർച്ചചെയ്യുവാൻ അവസരം കൊടുക്കുവാൻ തിരുമേനി ശ്രദ്ധിച്ചിരുന്നു. മിഷനറി പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങൾക്കും പുതിയൊരു ദിശാബോധം നൽകി ദക്ഷിണ കേരള മഹായിടവകയെ അതിലേക്കുള്ള സംരംഭങ്ങളിൽ, ആദ്യം ആന്ധ്ര പ്രദേശിലും പിന്നെ ഒറീസ്സയിലും മുന്നോട്ടു നയിച്ചത് തിരുമേനിയുടെ പ്രത്യേക താത്പര്യമായിരുന്നു.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനി ദൈവം തന്നെ വിളിച്ച ദൗത്യം വിശ്വസ്തതയോടെ അന്ത്യം വരെയും നിറവേറ്റി. പൂർണമായ സമർപ്പണവും അചഞ്ചലമായ ദൈവാശ്രയവും ദൈവനടത്തിപ്പിലുള്ള വിശ്വാസവും അദ്ദേഹത്തെ വിജയകരമായി ഓട്ടം പൂർത്തിയാക്കുന്നതിന് സഹായിച്ചു.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയെ കുറിച്ച് ഓർക്കുമ്പോൾ അദ്ദേഹം പ്രിയം വച്ച യേശുവിനെ കൂടെ നാം ഓർത്തു പോകുന്നു. ക്രൂശിന്റെ മറവിൽ താഴ്മയോടെ പ്രവർത്തിച്ച ഈ ദൈവദാസൻ നിത്യ ജീവന്റെ സന്തോഷത്തിലേയ്ക്ക് വിളിക്കപ്പെട്ടിരിക്കുന്നു. യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനിയുടെ ജീവിതം ഇനിയും അനേകകാലം നമ്മുടെ മദ്ധ്യേ ദീപ്തസ്മരണായി വെളിച്ചം പകർന്നുകൊണ്ടേയിരിക്കും.
Watch on YouTube: Malayalam Sermon on the Blood of Jesus by Bejoy Peter
Bishop Jesudasan: The Humble Servant Who Remained Faithful to God’s Call
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനി: ദൈവവിളിയോടു വിശ്വസ്‌തത പുലർത്തിയ എളിയ ദാസൻ എന്ന തലക്കെട്ടിനു പ്രേരകമായത് തിരുമേനിയുടെ ജീവിതത്തിലെ ഒരു പ്രത്യേക ചിട്ടയാണ് എന്ന് പറയുവാൻ എനിക്കു ആഗ്രഹമുണ്ട്. തിരുമേനി ബിഷപ്പായി അഭിഷിക്തനായത് 1973 ഓഗസ്റ് 5 ആം തിയതിയാണ്. പിന്നീടങ്ങോട്ടുള്ള എല്ലാ വർഷവും ഓഗസ്റ് 5 ആം ദിവസം തൻറെ ഔദ്യോഗിക തിരക്കുകളിൽ നിന്നു അവധിയെടുത്തു ഏതെങ്കിലും ഒരു സ്വസ്ഥമായ റിട്രീറ്റ് സെന്റെറിൽ ഒറ്റയ്ക്ക് പ്രാർത്ഥനാനിരതനായി ചിലവിടുമായിരുന്നു.
അന്നു തിരുമേനി ദൈവമുൻപാകെ സ്വയം ചോദിച്ചു ഉത്തരം കണ്ടെത്തുവാൻ ശ്രമിച്ചിരുന്ന ചോദ്യമിതാണ്: “ഞാൻ ദൈവം എന്നെ ഏല്പിച്ച വിളിയോടു വിശ്വസ്തനായിരിക്കുന്നുവോ?”
അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ജീവിതത്തെ അവലോകനം ചെയ്യുമ്പോൾ ഈ ഒരു ആത്മപരിശോധന അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ ദർശനത്തിലും സേവനത്തിലും നേതൃത്വത്തിലും എത്രമാത്രം സ്വാധീനം ചെലുത്തി എന്ന് മനസ്സിലാക്കുവാൻ കഴിയും.
Thank you School Leader Elect for proposing the toast and wishing all of us outgoing students the very best. Those words really touched our hearts and as you said, we will keep it our motto to excel in our pursuits and make the name of our school even more glorious. And I am indeed honoured to be given the chance to reply to the toast.
On behalf of all the outgoing students I wish to place on record the extraordinary influence the teachers and the ambience of this school has been in our lives the past ten years. The growing up phase was challenging but looking back it was eventful, and now it is part of our nostalgia.
I never thought I will ever get a chance to reply to the toast in this last year of mine at school. I was always a backbencher, a loser, a failure and the naughtiest kid in school.
I was always having homework to be finished, wrote impositions more times than all of you ever did, and received from teachers punishment in various forms. I leave the school with the thought that in this one thing at least I was first.
Let me now open my heart to you. I find that in today’s mad rush for success and becoming first, all that people think are of themselves. I is first and I is all that matters to most. We, unfortunately, live in a self-first and self-last and self-is-all world.
But there are people like me who long for love and acceptance. My rebellion, my naughtiness, my practical pranks were all my failed attempts to connect with you all.
I am not slow to study; I do believe I have a gifted mind. But i decided early on that I simply want to fail. You ask me, “Why?’
My dear friends, do know that all homes are not the same. There are broken homes where it is unrest always. Happiness is unreal to children like us who come from there.
There is no one to ask why you behave like this. All demand performance. There is no space for compassion, understanding or love in this scheme of things.
As I look back, it was a procession of negative labelling on all fronts: from relatives, schoolmates, and sadly some teachers too. It was like mud and slimy dirt thrown to stick on my white shirt: “You’re good for nothing,” “Bad boy,” “A shame to parents,” “Introvert,” “Loser,” and “A born failure,” were some of them. They still hurt. And I don’t know whether ever there will come a time when its shame will be washed away or its sting removed.
But I learned some time ago that holding a grudge will make all those labels come true. Therefore with great struggle I try to brush self-defeating thoughts aside each day.
I stand here today to say thank you for the opportunity given to one who did not rise up to your expectations. I stand here to thank my physical education teacher who one day after having made me run eight times around the ground asked, “My boy, tell me, what do you fear most?”
It was the first time someone was seeing me as a person—an individual with hopes and dreams, with fears and doubts like anyone else.
He, with that one question, broke my defense. I had a tough look and an unfriendly behaviour. Yet my teacher showed the guts to peel off that mask. But I am grateful he did it one on one and not in front of the crowd.
I broke down and cried that day. My fear of my parents separating, and losing one of them perhaps to death, finally came out.
When angels compere, first and foremost, they compere only according to script. For angels deliver God’s message given them.
So also when you compere, your confidence will be high if you have scripted all that you plan to say.
II. Smile from your heart.
When angels compere, they communicate joy. I don’t know whether angels smile; but Jesus said about the little ones that “their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” So when children smile; it should be making angels smile too as there is always joy in heaven.
And when you compere, the best thing you can bring on stage is your smile. If you smile from your heart; it creates a joyous mood and anticipation in the audience.
III. Vary your voice and style.
When angels compere, they vary their style to suit their message. When they warn; they have a solemn tone communicating urgency. When they sound hope; their voice is one of comfort and strength.
The lesson is that you have to match your voice and style to suit the mood and occasion. You might invite, celebrate, thank, or simply communicate information. You cannot use the same style for all.
IV. Build rapport with the audience and put them at ease.
When angels compere, they put the audience at ease. Often they are seen and heard saying, “Do not be afraid.”
As a compere you should be able to build a rapport with the audience. Some insightful remark or a timely word that can address the dominant mood of the audience can be a great move.
V. Focus spotlight on others and highlight them.
When angels compere, they simply do whatever duties they have been assigned to. They are flames of fire and servants of God worshipping him. They do not call attention to themselves but to the message and to God who sent them.
As a compere, your role is not to be in the limelight but help the audience to focus on the person being celebrated. You are to be like a voice drawing attention to others.
VI. Create memories; not just compere speeches.
When angels compere, there is a flash of heaven meeting the earth for a brief moment in time. As a compere if you can create some precious memories; that will remain in hearts and minds for long.
In that sense, the world has ever since found hope in these words of the angel on Bethlehem’s first Christmas carolling night: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord.”
So, with angels, let us also respond saying, “Gloria in Excelsis Deo.”
VII. Be committed to excellence.
When angels compere, they do it with excellence. When they worship God saying “Holy, Holy, Holy,” or while responding to the summons of God their words and actions are enthusiastic. In other words, you’ll never see an angel perform below his best.
So being an emcee or compere is a commitment to excellence. It is an art that is mastered over time. Attention to detail and a burning desire to perform well will help you excel as a compere.
Respected Principal, Beloved Teachers, and my Dear Students,
This is our very special day. On Children’s day, I as the school leader, take this opportunity to remind you that we are like roses in a garden—we bloom with a variety of colours and spread fragrance and joy all around.
Today, we remember Chacha Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, on his birthday. He truly loved children and believed in the promise that we hold for tomorrow and a better future.
On Children’s Day today, we come together from a variety of backgrounds. We come together without any barrier of our differences coming in between us. We celebrate our friendship and dream of our future together.
We have hope that in spite of all that is gone wrong in this world today, we will be able to build a better future together—a future that will be safe for the children of tomorrow. To this end, we pledge ourselves to work together hand in hand and standing shoulder to shoulder.
On Children’s Day today, we look forward with marvel at the tremendous change that the world of technology brings to us. Nearly everything unfolds at the tip of our fingers on our mobiles. Even classroom experience has changed with online classes. But let us remember that the virtual world too needs to be approached with caution even as we leverage the benefits of the same.
On Children’s Day today, let us look around us. Let us listen not with our ears but with our hearts as well. There is a world of children out there who do not enjoy the privileges that we do. Education is a dream to many. Many children, while we study, roam the streets to find some work that will bring them something to eat. Some less fortunate children have to labour hard each day at their homes or places of work even though child labour is prohibited by law.
While we celebrate Children’s day, let us make an effort to reach out to such children. Let us dream of making a future for them too. I know it is not within our power to do much. But that shall not prevent us from appealing to our parents and well wishers to lend a helping hand. We cannot and should not forget those children who also so rightly deserve a good education, a bright future and dignified living.
I cannot conclude without saying a word of thanks to all our beloved parents and teachers. Without you being part of our lives there is no meaning to our Children’s Day celebrations. We love you and respect you with all our hearts. Seeking your best wishes and blessings to each one of us. And dear children of our school, may this Children’s Day Celebrations inspire you to be the best you can be.
In this post, you will find these in four sections:
I. A Brief Introduction to Bishop Jesudasan’s Life and Legacy
II. Bishop Jesudasan’s Sermon: The Feast of Life (transcript).
III. Sermon Analysis
IV. Related Content: Links to condolence messages and media reports.
A Brief Introduction to Bishop Jesudasan’s Life and Legacy
Bishop Jesudasan’s sermons are remembered for their clarity of thought, their grounding on God’s Word, their depth of understanding of cultural contexts, his unique way of combining eastern and western elements, their relevance to the occasion, and for their force of delivery and impact.
He always approached the pulpit with utmost sacredness only to preach God’s Word and never for any other purpose; a lesson his father had taught him.
Bishop Jesudasan came from a very humble background and was exalted by God to positions of leadership: He was a presbyter in the South Kerala Diocese, became Lecturer and subsequently Principal of Kerala United Theological Seminary. He was elected Vice-Chairman of South Kerala Diocese and then its Bishop for a span of seventeen years which is described as the golden age of the diocese. During this time he was elected Deputy Moderator of the Church of South India and later its Moderator for three consecutive terms.
He was Co-Chairman of the CSI-CNI-Marthoma Joint Council, a member of the Anglican Consultative Council, Council for World Mission (formerly London Missionary Society or LMS), and the World Council of Churches; being an elected member of its central committee for ten years. He has authored several books that are Christ-centred and expound the Word of God with great depth of theological understanding and insight.
Bishop Jesuadasan was a man who was faithful to God’s call. He truly made memorable his name Jesudasan, which in his mother tongue Malayalam means, servant of Jesus. He had a true shepherd’s heart and did his utmost to keep the people of God united, He had the attitude of a servant leader, lived a simple life, had absolute trust in God, walked in his integrity before God and men, was compassionate to the poor, cried out for social justice, commanded the respect of secular and religious leadership alike, was a man of prayer spending early morning hours in reading and meditating on God’s Word, and wherever he went spread the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ and brought a sense of God’s presence to all worship services and meetings he conducted.
Most Rev. I. Jesudasan, the then Moderator of the Church of South India, delivered this blessed sermon at the World Council of Churches Assembly in Vancouver, Canada, on 31st July 1983.
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes (1 Corinthians 11:26).”
The sacrament of Eucharist is indeed a festival of great joy: the feast of life. Because, here we celebrate the wonderful and unique act of God by which He shared His life with our humanity. This is the cardinal mystery that we proclaim in and through this sacrament. God in His boundless love had shared His life with us by sending His son Jesus Christ to take upon Himself the fallen human nature and to give us eternal life. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us full of grace and truth.” And the Son of God shared His life with humanity by proclaiming the good news to the poor, by doing deeds of love and finally by laying down His life for all. This unique sacrifice is the source of abundant life to all people. The Holy Spirit makes Christ’s life a transforming and life-giving power in the world.
But how do we participate in this feast of life?
The Lord of life calls us to humble ourselves; to leave our pride and, like Peter, to be washed by our Lord, who emptied Himself to take the form of a slave. When we come to our senses we would also confess before God’s embracing Love, just as the Prodigal son did: “I have sinned against heaven and before you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” We feel the compulsion to cry out, beating our breast like the Publican, “God be merciful to me, a sinner.” It is only the poor in spirit who are deemed worthy to enter into the joy of the kingdom. If we approach the Lord’s table with contrite hearts and empty hands, there awaits for us the bread of life. The Lord is ready to fill the hungry with good things.
Here in Vancouver, we, the representatives of different church bodies who acknowledge and proclaim, “Jesus Christ—the Life of the World,” are privileged to celebrate this Eucharist, offering thanks to God our Heavenly Father. God’s people from all nations, tongues, and cultures have come together to make this occasion unique. We are thrilled at this grand spectacle which gives a foretaste of the heavenly scene of the great multitude which throng around the throne of God singing the new song of praise as we read in the Book of Revelation.
Against this glorious and luminous backdrop we are alarmed to see the acts of betrayal still being enacted in our day. Principalities and powers around us cause fear and anxiety as in the days of Christ. During these days we have been made aware of these frightful depressing modern betrayal scenes.
The darkness that surrounded Jesus Christ was basically a spiritual one, caused by unbelief. According to the New Testament witness, eternal life is to know the Father and His son, Jesus Christ, and the work that is pleasing to God, is to accept Jesus Christ whom the Father had sent for our salvation. For the witness is that in Him we have life. And it is this life that we are called to proclaim to a world in spiritual crisis.
Many in our world do not care to have vital spiritual relationship with the living God through His son Jesus Christ. So atheism, agnosticism and different types of secular materialism are on the increase. We cannot deal with them either by ignoring them or by replacing them with other concerns. It is in this context that we bear witness to the living Christ who says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. St. Paul says that, “the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” At the Eucharist we are made to see the terrible loss that happens to life—whether individual or collective, which is not related to God through Christ. We are called upon to feed the world with the bread of life and lead the nations to the living waters.
Christ sent the disciples to the upper room to make arrangements for the last supper. They went and set one table for it. Painfully we still sit at separate tables in the ecumenical upper room, excluding each other in the name of Him who invited all to His table, propping up our differences with theological arguments. It is, however, a happy thought that the liturgy that we celebrate today is a sign of the advances we have made on our common understandings on Baptism, Eucharist and the Ministry. It is at this table that we become aware that truth is not a theological affirmation, but the sharing of the life our Lord. This feast is, and always will be, one that calls and compels us to be inclusive.
Poet Markham says,
He drew a circle that shut me out . . .
But love and I had the wit to win;
We drew a circle that took him in.
What is the context of this feast?
We know it only too well that millions suffer all over the world, living under poverty, oppression and exploitation. The crafty designs of unjust socio-economic structures crush the voiceless poor, they cry for justice. In the name of freedom, values of the kingdom of God are brushed aside and for selfish gains and pleasures of life; people choose to walk on the road that leads to death. Our societies are producing more and more druggists, delinquents, unclaimed children, broken homes, etc. Are these not symptoms of disintegration of our modern civilization? People in such conditions stretch out their hands for help.
Consequent on the massive accumulation of nuclear weapons we live under the dreadful fear of total annihilation of the human race.
The abundant world resources are being wasted on destructive purposes while poverty continues to assume alarming proportions. Indeed the creation itself mourns over the irresponsible and sinful acts toward nature and its resources. The frightened people all over the world yearn for peace while political structures defiantly ask, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The church too is often tempted to pass by.
The great Indian sage and Poet Tagore says:
“Thou are the Brother amongst my brothers,
But I heed them not,
I divide not my earnings with them,
Thus sharing my all with Thee.
In pleasure and in pain I stand not by the side of men.
And thus stand by Thee.
I shrink to give up my life,
And thus do not plunge into the great waters of life.”
We are very much conscious of the darkness that surrounds us. God has opened our hearts to be concerned about these situations, of which we have just heard. It was in the midst of challenges posed by destructive forces and death, that our Lord instituted the sacrament of Eucharist as the feast of life and then down his life to win victory over the powers of death. In Christ we find the new life which God shares with the world and learn the secret of the life in God. Jesus said, “whoever loves his own life will lose it, whoever hates his own life in this world, will keep it for life eternal.” Eucharist celebrations become meaningful only when it points to a sharing of our lives. “I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls,” says Paul to the Church in Corinth.
On September, 1224, the Holy Cross Day, St. Francis of Assissi prayed thus in a prayer vigil:
“Who are thou, my God most sweet?
And what am I, that unprofitable servant and vilest of worms?
O, my Lord Jesus Christ,
Two graces do I pray thee to grant unto me before I die.
The first that while I live I may feel in my body
And in my soul that sorrow, sweet Lord, that thou didst
Suffer in the hours of thy most bitter passion.
The second that I may feel in my heart that exceeding love
Wherewith, Oh, Son of God, thou was enkindled to endure
Willingly for us sinners agony so great.”
May this be our prayer as we take part in this Holy Eucharist.
Sermon Analysis and Appreciation
The Setting
Bishop Jesudasan’s sermon The Feast of Life is based on God’s Word, focuses on the meaning of the Holy Eucharist instituted by our Lord, is set against the backdrop of situations of current relevance and has a global and heavenly perspective.
Two Questions
The whole sermon hinges on two questions he asks about the sacrament of Holy Communion:
Question #1: “But how do we participate in this feast?”
If anyone is not related to God through Christ, we find there a terrible loss that happens to life. In order that we might not suffer loss, we need to humble ourselves like Peter and the Publican and the Prodigal son and seek God’s mercy. It is when we acknowledge that we are sinners, it is when we leave aside our pride, and it is only when are empty and poor in spirit, that we can approach the Lord’s table with “contrite hearts and empty hands.” Then we will find there the Bread of Life awaiting us with his embracing love and ready to fill the hungry with good things.
Question #2: “What is the context of this feast?”
The Bishop points out for us the fact that Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper “in the midst of challenges posed by destructive forces and death.” But he also points out that Jesus triumphed over them by laying down his life “to win victory over the powers of death.”
The Feast of Life Is About Sharing
He speaks about the sacrament of the Eucharist as a festival of great joy because it is the feast of life. And it became the feast of life because it centred on one thing: sharing. First of all, God shared his life with our humanity. He did this so by sending his son Jesus to this world. And then the Son of God shared his life with humanity “by proclaiming the good news to the poor, by doing deeds of love and finally by laying down his life for all.” Therefore “Eucharist celebrations become meaningful only when it points to a sharing of our lives.”
The Feast of Life Means Becoming Inclusive
We are called by our Lord, as we participate in the Lord’s supper, to become inclusive and sit at one table and not be divided by “propping up our differences with theological arguments.” We are called by our Lord, to see and listen to the cries of millions of people who “suffer all over the world, living under poverty, oppression and exploitation.” “People in such conditions stretch out their hands for help,” he says.
The Feast of Life Is About the Grand Spectacle of the Foretaste of Heaven
When Bishop Jesudasan looks at the gathering, he sees representatives of different church bodies from all over the world coming together to celebrate the Eucharist. All of them together proclaim Jesus Christ—the Life of the World. It is a great moment to offer thanks to our Heavenly Father. The redeemed people from all nations, tongues and cultures coming together like this, according to the Bishop, is a “grand spectacle which gives a foretaste of the heavenly scene of the great multitude which throng around the throne of God singing a new song of praise.”
The Feast of Life Is About Witnessing to Jesus in an Unbelieving World
The Bishop is alarmed to see “acts of betrayal” that still happen against this “glorious and luminous backdrop.” He highlights the fact that humanity in plunged into spiritual darkness because of unbelief—the refusal to believe in the One whom God sent to this world. The New Testament witness is that in the Son of God we have life. And when we celebrate the sacrament of Eucharist, we have to be reminded that “it is this life we are called to proclaim to a world in spiritual crisis.” Thus the Bishop reminds us that we the church as a people are not only called to be a believing and worshipping community but also a witnessing community to the life that is in Jesus, the Son of God and the Saviour of men and women.
The Acts of the Holy Spirit
The Bishop also reminds us how the Holy Spirit makes Christ’s life a “transforming and life-giving power in the world.” He reminds us that the kingdom of God does not happen in the pursuit of atheism, agnosticism, and secular materialism. But it happens when people seek God’s righteousness first and foremost. He reminds us of the words of St. Paul who wrote: “the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
The Historic Value of the Sermon: The Feast Is About Sitting at One Table
At Vancouver, Canada, at the World Council of Churches, when the Bishop spoke, he was not only testifying to his personal walk with the Lord and Saviour Jesus whom he loved, but he was also speaking as a representative of a community of peoples God redeemed from under oppression and slavery; who by the mighty transforming act of the Holy Spirit and by the relentless and untiring efforts of missionaries in the fields of education, medical care and social reform became united under the umbrella of the Church of South India on 27 September 1947.
Having seen and experienced first-hand the transforming and life-giving power of the Holy Spirit in the life of communities; and having seen the formation of the CSI where four different traditions; viz—Presbyterian, Methodist, Congregational, and Anglican came together to become one under the administration and guiding hand of the Holy Spirit; it is no wonder that the Bishop was calling up to give up theological arguments and sit together at one table thanking God for the feast of life he has provided us with.
The Shifting of Scenes
The Bishop lifts up our eyes to looked beyond the grand spectacle of the people gathered together to celebrate the Lord’s supper at WCC Assembly to the great multitude in the heavenly scene as portrayed in the Book of Revelation.
But then from there he invites us to the earthly scene of injustice and oppression where we are called to act to help. In the context of unjust socio-economic structures which crush the voiceless poor who cry out for justice, in the context of values of the kingdom of God being brushed aside for selfish gains and pleasures; a choice that makes people walk on the road that leads to death, in the context of world resources being wasted for destructive purposes where even creation mourns because of sinful acts against nature and its resources; political structures ask that question that was heard at the dawn of human history: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” At the same time the church is tempted to “pass by” like the priest and the Levite in the story of Good Samaritan.
The Triumph of Christ’s Life
The whole sermon is a reminder that Christ emptied himself to give up his life to feed us with the bread of life. He triumphed over the forces of darkness and death by giving up his life. It was loss of his life that rewards us with eternal life. We are called to share this life with the world by a sharing of our lives.
Eastern and Western Elements
The Bishop quotes the American Poet Edwin Markham to highlight that we have to be inclusive. He quotes the Indian Poet Rabindranath Tagore from his classic and Nobel prize winning work Gitanjali to remind us that devotion to God which makes us insensitive to the needs of our neighbours is not what the Feast of Life is meant to be.
Devotion to Christ
In closing, the Bishop quotes the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. To those who have known the Bishop personally, this prayer comes from his lips not as a matter of oration or rhetoric; but as a sincere prayer. It was his life’s walk. He was truly devoted to Jesus Christ and had a personal relationship with his Lord and Saviour.
A Classic Sermon
This sermon is a classic because it does not come to us as a usual three-points sermon or even a sermon that is built on stories. Instead, it weaves in and through the pages of the Bible; reminds us of Cain’s question to God in Genesis and takes us to the heavenly scene as shown in Revelation.
In between, he makes us see in our mind’s eye Peter leaving aside his pride to be feet-washed by his Lord, the returning Prodigal son making his speech of repentance and meeting the “Embracing Love” of his father, and the Publican beating his breast. These pictures remind us of all that we learned in Sunday School but with deeper and more enduring lessons attached.
This sermon is a classic because of its huge relevance as it was delivered in the context of the celebration of the Eucharist by believers coming together from all over the world from different languages, nations, and cultures.
This sermon is a classic because we find the Holy Trinity and the Bishop’s adoration of the Trinity holding the sermon together. At the introduction he reminds us of God sending his Son to this world and the Holy Spirit making Christ’s life a transforming and life-giving power in the world. Again in the middle of the sermon the Bishop talks about the New Testament Witness of what life is: it is to know the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Then he goes on to say along with St. Paul that the kingdom of God is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
This sermon is a classic because of implied contrasts throughout the sermon. The Bread of Life is being offered to those who will take it. But there is terrible loss and betrayal and death when the Bread of Life is rejected. Life on one side and death on the other. Sitting at one table together; at the same time propping up differences. The stretching out of hands for help while those cries are ignored on the other. Glorious and luminous backdrop on one side; on the other darkness and unbelief.
One Final Thought—The Feast of Life
The sermon leaves us thinking on the true meaning of the sacrament of the Eucharist. It is a reminder of the Lord’s death. It reminds us that in the death of our Saviour we have life. It reminds us there is one table and we have to leave our differences behind and sit united at one table. It reminds us that “acts of betrayal” are still going on and many people choose the road that lead to death. But when political structures deny that they are their brother’s keeper and when the church itself is tempted to pass by we are called to share our lives for the people of this world. It is then that the Lord’s table truly becomes the Feast of Life.
“What is it, Peter?” I said, “Nothing Sir.” But Prof. James M. Stewart persisted with the question. He had earlier asked our class, “Where have you heard of Venus before?” I had then whispered to my friends, “Circus.” And it had not escaped to catch his attention.
And as Prof. J. M. Stewart quizzed my friends, they blurted out, “Circus! Venus Circus!” (referring to the famous touring circus company). And then, breaking eye contact with me, and turning to the whole class, he made this classic remark: “See, how different people have different tastes according to their profession!” His ability to improvise on all occasions with his silver tongue was profoundly amazing.
Later when I started my public speaking training program in the year 1996–a year after I passed out from Mar Ivanios College–I vividly remember that I took the first copy of my program’s brochure to our beloved teacher, Prof. James M. Stewart, so lovingly known as “Stewart Sir.” With the kind of respect he has in my heart, I couldn’t think of anyone else to share about my venture first. I write this with a great sense of loss at his passing away yesterday on 21st May 2021. He had exhibited great affection, love and care towards me as he had a close-knit brotherly bonding with my late Daddy.
When I first told Stewart Sir of my interest to pursue English Literature, he encouraged me a lot to do so. And my life was scripted through a road that was less travelled by in later years, through the study of English Literature and various leadership and performance opportunities I got at Mar Ivanios College to excel in public speaking. Stewart Sir was always there to encourage me in my efforts in this direction.
JMS was how his name was written in short form. Those three letters together struck a note of respect always. There are so many varied aspects of his character that made his personality stand out. I would like to highlight just three of them.
First of all, he was a gifted orator. He spoke with great command in both English and Malayalam. His speeches are remembered by all who heard them. There was no thundering rhetoric but logic working its way through with gentle persuasion. There are two moments I recall. One, after one of his sermons at our church (we both attended the same church), I went and asked him, “Sir, when will I be able to deliver a speech like the one you just did?” I was fascinated by his ability to hold a twenty-minute sermon on one single point, having all of the listeners engaged in his oration.
On another occasion, after I had given a sermon on Jesus the Good Shepherd, I just walked up to him to listen to his invaluable feedback. He put an arm around my shoulder and said, “My son, you could have left out the second and third points.” I learned the value of ruthless editing from him. When he mercilessly struck off many of my creative writing efforts with his turquoise blue ink, I realised how his thoughtful editing made my writing powerful. Further, no one can forget the kind of stage presence he had; how he could grace an occasion with dignity; and the felicity of words with which he could make even an ordinary occasion look grand.
Secondly, he was a gifted teacher par excellence. He took his time to get through a passage, be it poem, prose, or drama. He brought to life each word, scene, and character with his ability to dramatize without making us conscious of him doing so. Perhaps his greatest ability as a teacher was how he could connect the text being taught with real life examples, to people, and to life’s varied situations. He once quoted, “Experience is the comb you get when your head becomes bald.” and it took a lot of time for us to value its wisdom.
Life had taught him many lessons, he used to say, and he took them in his stride even when they took him through grief and loss. One of the things he took pride in was that he was teaching Literature. He used to say, “In Science, you learn about life; in Literature you learn life.” I have heard a professor (who is now no more; also, a former student of Stewart Sir) who stood with us in front of a class room and said, “Stewart Sir is yet to complete a few lessons for us.” He said that with a touch of humour; but it also says how much his students loved his sessions. Perhaps it is true, “Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard are sweeter.”
Thirdly, he commanded awesome love, respect, and admiration from all his students. He was strict and there was no doubt about it. And even his firm look was sufficient enough to make students who were simply wasting their time scurry away from in front of the Department of English. His voice carried the command of a War General.
At the same time, he could understand students like no one else usually did. Even with the most violent guys in the college, he had a way to soothe them by putting his hand around their shoulders and asking gently, “What’s troubling you?” He alone would walk into the midst of a brawl and simply with his words would push two warring factions of students away from each other. I’ve witnessed this myself with great disbelief at times. Students would walk up to him and pour out their hearts to him, vent their troubles in family or life. And in him they found someone who genuinely cared. We have heard many life lessons that he had to share from such conversations.
Some time ago, I was able to visit him at his home and spent some time with him conversing. Even when he had difficulty remembering everything; still he was able to recall many moments and asked questions about them. Unable to see when I met him last, he said he was spending much time listening.
Maybe I cannot close without mentioning one fact: in the early days of my blogging, he used to send me encouraging comments after reading some of the posts. A man of his stature finding time to read and comment on one of his students’ writing tells volumes of the mettle of his character; doesn’t it?
Department of English, Mar Ivanios College. Photo courtesy: englishmic.com/about
And now leaving aside all else I could say of him, like the relationship he maintained with Bishops and clergy across Christian denominations, politicians, administrators, and former students; his tremendous gift of organizing mega events, his skill with the written word, his contributions as an Editor and many things more; I would like to close by saying that as a teacher he inspired, motivated, and set standards of excellence that is difficult to emulate. But the light he was able to ignite in the hearts of many, the love he had for all of us students, the great aspirations he had for us; will always be cherished.
Ceremonies are part of our culture. Today we were privileged to be part of a great tradition of our College of Nursing that began with the impressive procession. We witnessed a coming in and a going out. In a sense it is this continuity that marked today’s events.
We welcomed the newcomers with the lighting of lamps signifying the privileged role of nurses as bringers of hope into a dark world searching for comfort and strength. At the same time we are expressing our confidence that those students who are passing out and graduating with flying colours will do this Institution, teachers, and parents proud in the days to come.
Now as Principal of this Institution I stand here to express our deep sense of appreciation and immense gratitude to all those who made today’s graduation and lamp lighting ceremony a memorable and cherished experience.
First of all our thanks are due to Rev. Fr. ………… the Director of our Educational Institutions who presided over this function. We are grateful to have had such an eminent administrator and a man with a vision and mission as our Director. His leadership is reflected in all developmental activities of our educational institutions. Thank you so much for presiding over this function.
Our chief guest of the day Prof. Dr….. the Controller of Examinations of our University is a person with an illustrious career in the medical field. We have been really privileged to have him here with us today. His inaugural address set the tone for the events of the day. It was appropriate that his gracious presence for the distribution of awards and certificates for academic excellence was a great encouragement to students in particular. Thank you very much Sir.
As I said at the beginning we are witnessing a coming in and going out. Both are momentous occasions in the life of newcomers as well as those who are graduating. To address both batches is a challenging task and in Prof. Dr. ….. Academic Dean, College of Nursing, we found a worthy person equal to the task. Her words of wisdom, practical tips, and encouragement were so much interwoven into the tapestry of today’s ceremonies. We are grateful to you Madam for delivering the keynote address and also passing the light to freshers.
Bishop ……….. has blessed us with his gracious presence and words of wisdom. The thoughts he shared will remain in the hearts of all for a long time to come. We, especially the student community here, are much indebted to you for your priestly blessings. Thank you very much for bringing to this occasion a sense of the heavenly and for delivering the benedictory address.
The Oath taking ceremony is part of tradition and it is a significant moment in the life of a nursing graduate. I wish to thank Ms….., Nursing Superintendent, College of Nursing for administering the same.
Now I wish to thank ……. our Joint director who welcomed the gathering. His innovative ideas in the conduct of programmes and meetings deserve special mention as well. My thanks are due to Dr. ………….. Associate Medical Director and ………. our PTA president for their well-crafted words of felicitation.
A word of thanks is due to Ms. ………. of the previous Batch of Nursing of our College for presenting before us your reminiscences of life here at our college of nursing in such a lovely way.
I take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues who have laboured hard to make this occasion such a memorable one. To all parents and students, thank you for being part of our College of Nursing. We hope that that our association will continue in meaningful ways in future too.
A word of thanks to all in ways big and small contributed to the success and smooth conduct of this august function, thank you so much.
Finally I thank God Almighty for showering his blessing upon today’s function and once again I thank each one of you gathered here today. Thank you one and all.
Respected dignitaries on the dais, beloved colleagues, and graduating students,
Have you wondered how it feels when you’re aboard a ship going on a long voyage for the first time? What is the feel when the ship moves away from shore? You slowly lose sight of your loved ones and all familiar landmarks. Then it is all water everywhere.
But then what sustains you there? Hope! Hope of fulfilling your dreams, hope of a better tomorrow, and hope of a great journey ahead. My dear graduates and post graduates College of Nursing, you are soon going to be part of this situation I have just described. Life, my dear friends, is forward. There comes moments when we have to step out into the unknown and unmapped territories.
Let me briefly spell out three magic words that can light up your path ahead:
The first magic word I would like to shout out loud to you is the word LIFE.
We live in a world which is increasingly becoming hostile to life. The dignity of life is challenged everywhere. People are being reduced to labels, numbers, and even objects. It is in this context that we Nurses are called to nurture life, value life, cherish life, and bring health and healing to the world.
Have you understood the real impact of this? There was once a man, a common labourer in Europe who said, “I am building here a cathedral with the great Architect Sir Christopher Wren.” See, that person had the insight that though his role was to bring together the bricks and build the wall; he was engaged in a larger task of helping people worship God in a beautiful cathedral. He also had the sense of pride and dignity that he was working along with a great builder of cathedrals.
My dear Nursing graduates, you too are working along side our Creator God. He is in the business of giving life; and you along side with him are also engaged in helping people maintain healthy lives. Be thankful that God has entrusted you with this awesome privilige.
In this context let me remind you those beautiful lines from Michael Jackson,
Heal the world
Make it a better place
For you and for me
And the entire human race
There are people dying
If you care enough for the living
Make it a better place
For you and for me.
The second magic word I would like to leave with you is PURPOSE.
In that classic movie Chariots of Fire which shows the Olympic Gold winning effort of Eric Liddel, there is a moment where he speaks his heart out to his sister Jennie. He says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast! And when I run I feel his pleasure.”
Likewise you all are called to be nurses with a purpose—the purpose to care, to give hope, and to put confidence in people. This is a high calling in life. To fulifil that call, you may have to make personal sacrifices.
Lini Puthussery is one among us in Kerala who with great courage and dignity made a great sacrifice to take care of people infected with the Nipah Virus. She could have played it safe. But she chose to pursue the call of duty. Florence Nightingale could have played it safe duringthe Crimean war but she was ready to be used as an instrument of healing in God’s hands. Or take the example of Edith Cavell, a British nurse who was executed by the Germans for saving the lives of many soldiers during World War I. She was quoted as saying, “I can’t stop while there are lives to be saved.”
So my dear graduating students, you are on a mission with a purpose–the purpose to care, to give hope, and to put confidence in people while nursing them back to good health.
The third magic word I would like to bring to your attention is COMPASSION.
We live in the age of ever-happening technology. What is the impact of this? Many husbands know their mobile phones better than their wives and vice versa. With artificial intelligence making great progress; today life is becoming more and more mechanical and robotic. Lost is the time of family prayer and dinner together. We have also let go of simple conversations at home. Everybody is busy chatting with everyone else in the world but not with members of family.
As Mother Theresa noted, “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.”
So know that most people who come into your care are poor. They may have houses, cars, jobs, and plenty of gold but they are emotionally and spiritually poor. What they need is compassion. One of the characteristics of Jesus during his earthly ministry was that he stopped to listen to the cry of individuals because he was moved with compassion.
Can you be a channel of God’s compassion? If yes, a healing beyond that of physical sicknesses can take place. That is a greater miracle.
Let me conclude. I would like to thank all of you for inviting me to deliver this graduation address. I am deeply thankful for the kind words of introduction too.
My dear graduating students you are now going to be angels of encouragement and hope. You are going to be carrying the light of hope in jars of clay. In yourselves you may feel weak and inadequate for the great task ahead. But let me wish and pray that God Almighty hold you by your right hand and lead you on your journey ahead.
Who has not been inspired by a teacher? Somewhere at the back of our minds stands at least one or two who showed us light and pointed out to us the path we need to travel. It is deeply appreciated from all of us. You deserve and have our utmost respect dear teachers.
On this occasion of Teacher’s Day, let me spell out who a teacher really is. A teacher is one who has a heart of love, a passion for knowledge, and a skill for communicating the same.
A huge gallery of famous personalities owe it to their teachers for having first identified their talent and are thankful to them for having nurtured it. The story of Helen Keller and how her teacher Anne Sullivan had influenced her is a timeless inspiration to all; isn’t it?
A teacher believes in a child even when others label him or her negatively and will not neglect a student because others have given up on that student saying that the student is not good in studies.
Many students have found the courage to hope and the dare to dream just because of one teacher who said, “Yes, you can!”
A teacher is one who is not satisfied with the knowledge of the past; but is always updated on what is new in his or her subject. He or she makes an extra effort to bring something new that is interesting, informative, inspiring, and even inter-disciplinary to class each day.
This extra effort is a thing of joy for the teacher and extremely satisfying as the class responds enthusiastically and attentively.
A teacher is one who listens carefully and attentively to what students tell him or her. In other words, when students find in a teacher a caring heart, they trust the teacher with even personal and intimate matters of the heart that they cannot share with even their best friend.
Above all these things, a teacher inspires. One timely word of appreciation from a teacher can ignite a spark and a fire in the lives of students.
Thus a teacher shining a small burning light even in a remote village might be igniting a fire in the life of a brilliant student who will carry that to the ends of the earth one day!
—
“I sing the praise of the Unknown Teacher,” wrote Henry Van Dyke, himself a teacher. “Great Generals win campaigns, but it is the unknown soldier who wins the war. Famous educators plan new systems of pedagogy, but it is the unknown teacher who delivers and guides the young. He lives in obscurity and contends with hardship. For him no trumpets blare, no chariots wait, no golden decorations are decreed.
“He keeps the watch along the borders of darkness and makes the attack on the trenches of ignorance and folly. Patient in his daily duty, he strives to conquer the evil powers which are the enemies of youth. He awakens sleeping spirits. He quickens and communicates his own joy in learning and shares with boys and girls the best treasures of his mind. He lights many candles which, in later years, will shine back to cheer him. This is his reward.” Source: https://repository.mainlib.upd.edu.ph/omekas/files/original/9e107c3a86ea8311c4812b044874b9d140684fcb.pdf
Respected Dignitaries, Distinguished Guests, Youthful audience, and a wide spectrum of viewers watching on Television,
It is indeed a moment of great joy this evening. I stand here with an immense sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. This musical reality show that stole the hearts of millions of people worldwide is coming to its grand finale tonight.
The entire last year; viewers especially Malayali communities across the globe had tuned in every night to not only watch this vibrant program but also support and encourage the child prodigies who had delighted us with their wonderful singing and dancing and interactions with judges and audiences.
Let me first of all welcome all the dignitaries from the TV Channel management, and the Senior Executives from the Companies who have generously sponsored the cash award and prizes. As the Chief Organizer of this event, let me welcome each one of you and request you to kindly occupy the seats allocated for you in the front row.
We have here with us a well-known and eminent panel of judges. They are names that are synonymous with the music world and the film industry. Their rich experience and their connect with audiences is without parallel. Welcome you all to this grand finale.
Of course, here on my right stand the ten finalists. They are all familiar faces to all of you. What a thrilling musical journey they had had. The tremendous improvement they have shown over the last one year is phenomenal. They have mesmerized us on many nights with their unbelievable singing.
To my left are seated the orchestra team. What a wonderful team they have been. Without their enthusiastic support and extraordinary skill with their respective instruments, this musical show could not have come this far. Welcome you all to this finale.
And finally the privileged members of the audience watching this show live and millions of viewers watching on television, welcome.
Look ahead to a memorable night that shall long remain in your minds for its fantabulous display of musical talent, the fierceness of the competition, the agony and tears of elimination, the joy and ecstasy of success. Yes, ladies and gentlemen tonight you are about to witness a musical drama that will set your hearts racing. Welcome you all once again.
It is with great happiness that I stand here to welcome all of you.
As the Chairman of this Film festival I can say that it was a great run-up to this exciting moment.
I know that you are looking ahead with eager faces to see the movie scheduled as the curtain raiser to the current edition of this International Film Festival.
This time for a change we have kept the name of the movie a surprise.
You might wonder why it is so. It is because the movie itself explores the element of curiosity and how it shapes human expectations, handles disappointments and finds success in the pursuit of discovery.
Without keeping you all waiting much more, I welcome the guests of honour, dignitaries, delegates and the media to this function.
We have eminent Directors, reputed and legendary names in the world of Cinema whose very lives revolve around the silver screen here with us tonight. There presence here with us in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of God’s own country, Kerala, is in itself a grand showcase of the way this International Film Festival has grown and made a mark in the festive maps of the celluloid world. I welcome you with great pleasure to this inaugural function.
We are greatly honoured to have with us the doyen of Indian cinema, Mr. Amitabh Bachan, the the Big B of Bollywood as our celebrity guest this evening. He, once was the angry young man of Indian cinema. But today he is an iconic figure having inspired millions of viewers with the legacy of larger than life characters he has left behind. His signature voice is recognized everywhere. With loving hearts we welcome you to this film festival.
A special word of welcome to all our friends and passionate movie lovers who have come from different parts of the globe. It has made this gathering here this evening a mix of cultures, perspectives, and blend of voices from the Indian sub-continent, South-east Asia, the Middle East, South America, Africa and Europe.
Yes friends, movies make us reflect and think and ponder. It makes us face questions of ultimate importance in life. The lens through which the story is told is not just about dialogues but about search for truth and meaning; it is not just about songs but soul-stirring music and the power of stillness; it is not just about dashed hopes and cruel injustice but also about stirrings of hope and fight back and survival in the midst of despair.
As we unite together to watch and view and air our own opinions; make judgements and become part of the story-telling traditions passed down to us through generations now enhanced and embellished with the aid of ever-captivating and improving technology; I wish all of you a wonderful fortnight of great cinema viewing on the larger than life screens.
Once again, I welcome all of you to this grand celebration of world-class films that will keep you yearning for more. Thank you.
It is with hopes and aspirations, dreams and ambitions that you are on this Campus this morning. You are raring to go.
Everything is new for you–new classrooms, new teachers, new friends and even new technology. But this Institution towers tall and has stood here like a spreading tree of knowledge for decades. So you have come to a place which has a rich tradition.
But we have not fossilized. We have embraced change every step of the way. As you look around you can see how modern the facilities here are. So welcome dear students to a time of zestful living and wonderful learning.
Let me now spell out for you two things you can hold dear as you are here:
One, keep sight of your goals. Life on campus is colourful. There are many activities you can be part of. And I do wish that each one of you will find your part in some of them. We do not want you to be just gathering information from here; but we want you to learn character, discipline, compassion, and above all understand the meaning of life.
But activities should not become distractions. You should never major on minor things. Always keep things in perspective. What is important should never be marginalized. Therefore keep your goals in front of you always. Each day measure the steps you have taken towards your goals. Then you will find success.
Two, love and patience should go hand in hand. Youth is a time when love blooms in spring, blushes, and often fades in the intense heat of summer or becomes frozen in winter’s biting cold. No one has yet found out why and how love begins. Some call it chemistry; others blame it on hormones; and still many to blind chance.
Whatever it be; years of teaching and personal touch with students have taught me one thing–many stories of love, jealousy, misunderstanding, fights, tears, and occasionally happy endings have been scripted here.
But there is one golden thread life-lesson I can share with you. Anything in the name of love that makes you hasty; compels you to yield to a mad rush of emotion; which makes you offer in the fires of pleasure what that is to be guarded with utmost sanctity and care; is not love.
Therefore be patient. Let time test your love. What has to remain will remain. And then when patience has run its course; you will find joy with great peace and lasting friendship accompanying.
Let me conclude. As the Principal of this college, I heartily welcome each one of you wishing you that you find the best time of your life during the course of study here. Never lose sight of your goals and let love be girded and guarded with patience. Life ahead can be exciting. Wish you all God’s best in your studies.
Thank you dear teacher for your farewell wishes to our batch.
It was not only a bouquet of love but also words that set our hearts ablaze with hope to face life ahead with courage in such uncertain times.
Looking back, there are two magnificent things I like to highlight: One, our batch always was like family. Two, the blessing of having such wonderful teachers who not only taught us well but cared for us individually.
These two things made the four years of our life on campus memorable and a period in life that we all will cherish for an entire lifetime.
I stand here with a heart full of emotions. I have stood here to speak many times before; but never had thought that this moment would come so soon.
Life forward is going to be exciting, adventurous, and dreams come true. But saying goodbye is tough. It is not the buildings, not the events, and certainly not the journeyings that we will miss.
Yes, there is something more dear teachers and students-It’s the bond of love and friendship that we have built that will remain and pass the test of time.
But now, in a few hours time, we walk away from this Campus with a heart full of memories spiced with gratitude to God for the blessing of the opportunity of having been part of this Campus and Alma Mater.
I believe, that as our Principal had exhorted us the first day in our college, we have left this place a better place than when we came in.
I wish to place on record our heartfelt thanks to our Respected Principal, and beloved teachers for their guidance and blessings and for shining a light on our paths.
Thank you dear friends for your unique contribution in all activities that we enjoyed doing together.
Welcome all to the 74th Independence day. This time we are celebrating in the midst of a global crisis due to Covid-19.
This is a time we cannot come together to celebrate the joy of independence. At the same time we cannot miss to observe this most important day of Indian history.
Therefore we have joined together online to mark the occasion.
Let us remember with gratitude all freedom fighters and all those who sacrificed much to make India free.
Today, we are in the front ranks of the nations of the world and we can be proud about our secularism and democratic principles that has stood the test of time.
Freedom, as our first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in his famous First Independence Day Eve speech Tryst with Destiny 1 said, brings responsibility. So dear children, freedom not only brings privileges but also duties. Therefore let us join hands today to preserve our hard-earned freedom.
We should remember and never forget that democracy survives on freedom of speech. Therefore tolerance and respect should be the watchwords that we should keep in mind to maintain unity in diversity in this colourful and pluralistic land of rich traditions and ancient heritage.
On this occasion of Indian Independence Day, let us remember the meaningful words of Rabindranath Tagore which he penned in his great work Gitanjali:
Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; Where knowledge is free; Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls; Where words come out from the depth of truth; Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection; Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit; Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening thought and action Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.
Let us therefore pledge to do all in our strength to guard the flame of independence and freedom that our freedom fighters lit for us.
Let us say no to all divisive forces. Let us salute our national tricolour and proudly say Mera Bharat Mahan!
It is time to say goodbye. I have said it many times before. Yet it has never grown easy.
I now stand alone on the deck of my ship awaiting a new set of passengers.
I will wake up tomorrow with a heavy heart. I will miss you all.
Do not think that the sessions have come to an end. This is not an end but a beginning. What the caterpillar calls an end, the butterfly calls a beginning!
As a Trainer I cannot walk with you all the way. Like Rev. Martin Luther King said the night before he was assasinated, I may not cross with you over to the Promised Land. There is a place where I have to stop and you have to go on.
All of you have shown immense talent. At some point along our journey each one of you discovered who you truly are. You realized your true potential for the first time in your life.
Now it is time to use every opportunity that comes your way. You will certainly make mistakes. You will face criticism.
But remember three things.
One, aim for excellence.
Two, keep on doing what you are good at. Perseverance is the word for it but for ease of remembering let me say endurance.
Three, enjoy speaking.
These are the Three E’s I would like to leave you with:
Excellence!
Endurance!
Enjoyment!
I would like to thank each one of you for being part of this Batch. Each one of you contributed to the success of this class in your own unique way.
Thank you for the love, fun and friendship. I hope it will last for a long time to come. And thank you for the thoughtful gifts you gifted me with. It makes this parting even more difficult.
It is now time to say goodbye. I don’t promise that everyday I will be thinking of all of you. That is not possible. But at the back of my mind somewhere you will be there.
Let me end by asking why we go and watch sunsets even though they bring in darkness? It is because we are sure that the sun will rise again.
Some of you have already seen sunsets in life. This is my heartfelt prayer and wish for you: that each one of you will have a brilliant Sunrise in your life with better hopes, better dreams and better tomorrows. Thank you
I stand here amazed at the sea of faces I see here tonight. I know it is your expression of love and kind regard towards me.
Thank you very much for being here when you had the choice to stay back home due to the rains pouring down outside.
I would like to thank the Management Association for selecting me for the Best Entrepreneur Award.
As I look back this has been a long journey. At the very outset of this journey there was disbelief among those who knew me. They questioned me on the wisdom of choosing to walk a road less travelled by.
The next challenge was finding the right people to believe in my dream. To my left and to my right they have been seated here. The manner in which each one of them became a strong pillar of support in this Organisation is a story in itself. Thank you dear members of my team. This award rightfully belongs to each one you.
Like any entrepreneur the fight for survival due to cash crunch and business idea failure came my way too. Those times were difficult. Those were times when I too questioned my leadership. The temptation to quit was stong. But I thank God Almighty for the grace given to survive those tough times. Success always comes with a price tag attached; doesn’t it?
If you ask me, at the end of the day, what it all meant I can answer in one word–wisdom. The wisdom that comes from experience that no management text book can ever teach.
If you ask me again, what gave me the motivation to go on; I can say it was the difference that my dream could make. Look at this village. Today it is a marked presence in all maps and not just a forgotten speck of dust in a vast land mass. Today so many families live with dignity and respect because of the work they have taken up not as a job but as a calling.
Today our Paper Bag making unit has impacted the society in a larger measure than we had dreamed of when we started. We have been able to diversify into eco-friendly bags not just paper. This I believe have encouraged a lot of people to say No to plastics and preserve this Planet Earth for the next generations to come.
If you ask me once more, what are your plans for retirement, my reply would be there aren’t any. For no true entrepreneur ever retires. The last lap is where the glory lies. It is a time given to give back yield in rich dividends from what you had received. This I wish to do with all my heart and with all the strength that God will grant me.
I dedicate this award to my team who stood with me in all the testing times.
Let me end by challenging each one of you to go back from here with a greater dream than you have seen so far. Live with a purpose and look back and see that long line of lives and families you empowered to live with dignity. What greater legacy can anyone hope to leave behind. Thanks you.
Little did any one of us imagine that we will meet together like this after twenty-five years. It seems like it was only yesterday that we parted from here.
Twenty-five years is a long time. A few of our loved ones–both teachers and our friends had left us sorrowing. But like a train that just halts briefly we stopped; and then continued our journey forward.
Some of us found success in our careers; while some others still search for meaning in their work. Most of us found our helpmeets and have shared struggles common to all families.
Life, my dear friends, was not predictable; was it? See where it has taken each one of us. How differently we had thought in our teenage days! How varied were our dreams! Yet one thing common was our hope that the future would be bright.
Yes, looking back, we can be thankful to God for bringing us this far. As we become the same old friends once again today in the same old classrooms where our friendships bloomed; let us celebrate with much joy.
Life is busy with each one of us. Yet this gathering together here today shows that we all have time for that what is important; what is cherished, loved, valued and held dear to our hearts.
So let us celebrate. Let us take time to be that young school boy and girl that each one of us was twenty-five years ago. Let us remember the times we studied together, played together, and had times of wonderful companionship.
Life is brief. What seemed like a long journey now seems like the blink of an eye, a dream, a page turned over. I wonder how many of us will make it to the golden jubilee. That reunion might happen with the stars in the galaxies.
But this moment is ours. In another three days we say goodbye again. Some of us will never meet again. So we spend time here together fully knowing well that all that we have is only gifted from above.
So with thankful hearts, joyous tears, and the scent of this Jasmine-decked hall evoking nostalgic memories; I welcome each one of you and wish each one of you a wonderful silver jubilee reunion.
Thank you.
Speech of Felicitation by Former Principal
My dear children,
I am now running the last lap of my life on earth. It is with great happiness that I accepted your invitation to be here this evening. What a joy to see all your faces once again.
It has made me young once more. As I look back at your time at school; those days were filled with lively activity with each one of you contributing to academics and co-curricular activities of the school.
Many of you, I remember had made the school proud through your achievements. I remember the school band where some of you played. The Annual Athletic Meet, the Science fair, the Christmas celebrations, and many more were times of fun, refreshing, and purposeful recreation.
Today, I feel honoured that you brought all the former teachers together. I thank you for the love and gratitude you have showered on us. We feel happy that some of our efforts inspired you to dream big and create a future for yourself.
I take this opportunity to wish you all well. The only reminder perhaps is that of giving back. Time will run its swift course; and before long you will find yourself where most of your former teachers are today–in the sunset years of their lives.
Therefore use every opportunity wisely. Create platforms for others to succeed. I am very glad that one among you has won the Best Entrepreneur Award. Hope many more from this silver jubilee reunion will follow his example.
The last two hours will not be forgotten. The kind of emotions I feel are like the waves that keep rolling in. Joy; especially the freedom to be the young boys and girls we once were is just exhilarating. I am sure this is not just what my heart alone says; but given a chance each one of you will whisper and shout the same things that I shared.
As the Organising Secretary of the Silver Jubilee Reunion, it was my pleasant task to get in touch with each one of you. What a joy it was to connect with all of you dear teachers and friends. Even though life took us on different roads; we all found our way back to our second home, our dear Alma Mater once again.
To all my friends who supported me with getting connected with our teachers and batchmates a big thank you. To all teachers who are currently part of the school and who supported us with arranging this venue and providing us with all needed logistics, a heartfelt thank you from all of us. To all our former teachers, let me tell you words will not be enough to say thanks, for your kindness in being part of our silver jubilee reunion and for blessing us with your gracious presence. We always will remain the same old children you taught in those evergreen years. Thank you so very much.
Such a mega event would never be possible without supporting finances. To all my friends who took care of the sponsorships and to all of you who contributed generously, much and more than we asked or expected; thank you very much.
Above all, to God Almighty, without whom I firmly believe this memorable night will not have been possible; belong our deepest thanks.
The night tonight will be long. Music, dance, and entertainment will fill the air. To all of you who will electrify this night with your talents, sincere thanks. Once again, thank you one and all.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
2000 years ago, a historic never-forgotten night that stretched long into the early hours of morning is remembered also for the following note of hope . . .
Farewell and the Promise of a Reunion Beyond Time
Jesus Christ, the night he was betrayed and arrested, the last night before his death on the cross, delivered this comforting farewell address to his disciples. He began by saying:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
Respected dignitaries on the dais, my dear colleagues, participating teams from different universities, and all gathered over here, a warm good morning to one and all.
As the Principal of the College hosting the event, it is my pleasant privilege to speak a few words of felicitation at the inauguration of The Extravaganza, the Inter-University Arts and Literary Fest in our region.
The Extravaganza suggests possibilities, opportunities, creativity, and the colourfulness of youth. Today all of you get a chance to express yourself in the best spirit of friendly competitiveness. It is a time to enjoy the splash of immense talent on the huge canvas that is spread out for you.
I take this opportunity to welcome all the participating University teams once again. Life, let me remind you is made special by memories. I am sure The Extravaganza will become for you a cherished memory, a snapshot that you will showcase for the rest of your lives.
Let me wish all of you good success. At the end of the day there will be winners. At the same time there will be some who may not finish at the top three. But then they are not losers. They have put in their best efforts. That is what counts more than being able to win. So strive to excel.
Let me also remind all of you that the true achievement of programmes like The Extravaganza is the exchange of ideas and establishment of new relationships and friendships that paint our life’s canvas with a variety of colours.
Such programmes allow us to think beyond our daily spheres of influence and think of the world beyond our immediate surroundings. It expands our minds, gives us a greater capacity to love, and enables us to push ourselves to new standards of excellence.
All this would not be possible without an organizing team and their voluntary efforts to make The Extravaganza happen. I congratulate and thank all the members of the organizing team for their selfless effort to make this event a grant success.
I once again wish all participants success. Let the competitions happen in the true spirit of sportsmanship. Life is made beautiful by shared moments like what is happening here right now. I can see the eager faces all around looking ahead in anticipation. Wish you all success. God bless you all. Thank you.
We are all gathered here with hearts full of gratitude to felicitate her. Dear teacher, we your students are indeed proud of your achievement. We are immensely privileged to share with you the joy of you being selected as the best teacher.
There are three things I wish to highlight this evening.
One, your commitment to excellence. There is nothing that you do that is not stamped with your passion for making the best efforts possible.
Two, your depth of knowledge. There is a welcome freshness to your class each day. We are left yearning for more when the bell rings to signal the end of class.
Three, your personal touch in our lives. You had a gentle word of encouragement to each one of us when we were down. For all our little heartaches, you had time to listen to us. More than what you have taught us, it is the fact that you cared that has touched us.
Above all this we all know that you are a loving wife and an affectionate mother. We are happy that you have found a work-life balance that has given us such a wonderful teacher in you.
There is much more to say. But some things remain etched in memory when it is short and sweet.
So let me wish our very dear teacher many more awards and recognitions in the years ahead.
Respected dignitaries on the dais, colleagues, parents, the rank holders and dear students.
A timely word is a treasure that is wrapped in timeless memory .
We are gathered here to celebrate the achievement of these seven young minds who through their persevering effort has won personal distinction as well as accolades for our Institution. Their truly deserving achievement reminds us of Napoleon’s words, “Victory belongs to the most persevering.”
Though it is only (Name), who was my student in English Literature, the rank holders from other Departments of this College are known to me as well.
Some of them have overcome a variety of difficult situations and have come out with flying colours. On this joyful occasion, let me remind just three things.
First of all, not all but only very few have the privilege of studying in a college. And you have set yourself apart from that elite group and have carved a niche for yourselves as rank holders which will always be etched in golden letters in the annals of our history. So be thankful to God, to your parents, to your teachers and all those who supported you so that this achievement was made possible.
Secondly, there is a principle in life that the more you give, the more you are able to receive and still keep on giving. As you walk out of this Campus today, think how much the time you had spent here influenced and impacted you. Think about it not just in terms of knowledge gained but more in terms of relationships, the wisdom of life lessons, the guidance and encouragement of teachers and the value of the brand identity of this prestigious institution you now call your Alma Mater. Think about what you can give back to this Institution and the community at large. From now on, it is a time to give back and gift back in multiplied measure all that you got from here.
Finally, your achievement shows all the others especially the students who will be appearing for their final examinations this year that beginning well is good and important; but greater still is the art of finishing well. Lot many of youngsters today lack this determination. My dear students determine to finish well and finish strong in life. Your ability to dream of great achievements is important, but greater still is the will to win and the discipline to achieve it. It is this burning desire that will bring you success in the end as has been shown by these seven brilliant minds.
I take this opportunity to wish each one of the seven rank holders God’s very best. May life unfold for you in all its loveliness, may you find greater success in all that is to come, and may you find greater meaning and purpose as you contribute to society through your work and career in later years.
On behalf of this college community, the management, the principal, the teachers, parents and students, I once again congratulate you on your achievements and wish you all success. Thank you for accepting our invitation and being present for this meaningful and august felicitation meeting. Let this be not an end but a beginning; let the journey continue; and may you find new knowledge, new avenues of service, new opportunities for growth and may you find success in all your endeavours.
Thank you.
Respected dignitaries on the dais, beloved teachers, dear parents and students,
Good evening to one and all.
We have just witnessed a magnificent display of talent by the students of our school. It is most fitting that such a variety of cultural events showcased the splendid history of the last 25 years of our school on this concluding programme of the Silver Jubilee Anniversary Celebrations.
As the head girl of this school it is my honour and privilege to propose the vote of thanks.
First of all, let me thank our Principal. Sir, the words of wisdom you shared with us today will remain in our hearts for the rest of our lives. You have challenged us to discipline ourselves to succeed in life and not to lose our human touch in the process of doing so.
I am sure this light you have lit this evening will blaze on in the lives of all the students gathered here. Thank you very much.
The Guest of honour today, [name], is one among us, who started dreaming sitting on the benches of the classrooms here. It is not often that students get a chance to listen to eminent persons like you. You have exemplified through your life what it means to fight against disabilities, and live without complaining about difficult circumstances in life.
Your enthusiasm is contagious. What touched our hearts this evening is your bold fight against gender discrimination and harassment of women in the workplace. Your words have inspired all the girl children in our school to be aware of their rights and privileges; and to have courage to speak out against injustice. Pledging our support to all your work on women empowerment; a big thank you for your gracious presence with us this evening.
Today we were blessed to have the megastar of [name] Malayalam movies as our celebrity guest. Well, we have seen so many of the wonderful characters you portrayed so well on the silver screen. For most of us, it was the first time, we got to see you so close. Your unassuming nature surprised us.
Now it is time to say thanks to our beloved teachers. What can I say!
Without your support, your care and concern for us, your constant endeavours to bring out the best in us, your instilling in us a sense of values and priorities in life, your teaching us the importance of managing time, and above all your being with us for any help that we needed; all this above and beyond what you teach from text books; yes, all these and more have made our life in this school the happiest and most meaningful period of our lives.
In a big way, more than words can say, from the depths of our hearts and with due respect, thank you all our beloved teachers.
A word about our parents gathered for this ceremony this evening. Your coming here, your presence with us means a thousand times more than all the expensive gifts you could have given us. For all your love and care, for all the sacrifices made to educate us in the best school in this part of the world, for gifting us with dreams and possibilities, a big thank you.
We assure you that nothing of what you have done for us will ever go wasted.
It is time to say goodbye. The Silver Jubilee celebrations of our school comes to an end; but the legacy lives on.
What has been achieved will be written in golden letters in the annals of our history; but what is yet to come will surpass all that in its magnitude, in its brilliance, and in its reach.
To all who came to witness this event, to all those who wished our school good luck on this momentous occasion, to all who toiled day and night to make the Silver Jubilee celebrations unforgettable, thank you once again.
Finally I thank God Almighty for showering his blessing upon today’s function.
As the star studded skies on this black velvety night twinkle in euphoric delight,
Wishing you all good night, sweet dreams and radiant memories. Thank you one and all.
Life is forward. And birthdays are milestones along the journey. It reminds us that the gift of life is God-given; to be cherished, valued, and kept as a sacred trust.
Birthdays also are reminders. It tells us that time is ticking on. It does not stop for anyone. A birthday thus becomes a snapshot of a good moment, a tiny speck in the passage of time. It is a day you can feel special; which you truly are.
Birthdays remind us to be thankful. Each birthday you celebrate is a time to thank God for bringing you thus far.
And it is also an opportunity to take stock of all that is past, correct mistakes, and move on with hope.
Yet again, birthdays tell us how special our loved ones are. In fact it is our family and friends who share our joy with us. It is definitely our loved ones who make birthdays special.
So also the gifts they bring. We often remember with love and gratitude the people who gave gifts to us on our birthdays.
Most of these gifts are carefully chosen, sacrificially given, and lovingly gifted not only to express their heart to you but also to let you know how valued to them you are.
To put in a final thought, birthdays tell us that life can never be truly estimated or measured in years. The length of time lived rarely is an indicator of how well it was lived.
Therefore, may each birthday find you with a stronger resolve to live your life with purpose.
On behalf of friends and family and all gathered here, let me wish you a wonderful birthday with God’s blessings accompanying throughout the coming year!
How to talk on such an occasion is difficult to say. Emotions play a major role. But still some guidelines might help.
1. Try to establish your connection with the deceased person. Is it as a friend, colleague, teacher, student, or a familial relationship.
2. Speak of the manner of passing away. Was it peaceful? Was it is untimely? If it was a prolonged illness how did the person cope with it.
3. How has it impacted family, friends, and others known to the person?
4. Try to state family history, upbringing, schooling and college education, employment, and married life whichever is applicable.
5. Recall one or two instances where the person’s unique qualities shone through. This is especially comforting to the members of family.
6. End with a note of support to the surviving members of family.
7. If there is a positive message that the person’s life exemplified, do mention it as something to be emulated and followed.
Death is a time when the future looks like a huge question mark. No one has easy answers to give. Yet if someone had firm faith in God, you can always highlight the certainty of hope he or she had. It is this hope of meeting one’s loved one again; more alive than now in the presence of God that makes the rainbow seen through the tears.
The reality of death should make all think. How long before it is my turn? Before It comes how can I live with a purpose? Can I help make a positive difference in the life of others? In one word, the death of someone should make us wise in how we live in this world and how we are preparing ourselves for a life beyond earth’s final farewell.
Note: Avoid mention of negatives. It is also good not to describe the person in too many superlatives; that might come across as insincere.
Be brief in your talk. Remember to pick instances from the person’s life that show his or her love and care for others, exceptional academic, co-curricular or work-related achievements.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
—
Conclusion of speech by Princess Diana’s brother at her funeral:
I would like to end by thanking God for the small mercies he has shown us at this dreadful time. For taking Diana at her most beautiful and radiant and when she had joy in her private life. Above all we give thanks for the life of a woman I am so proud to be able to call my sister, the unique, the complex, the extraordinary and irreplaceable Diana whose beauty, both internal and external, will never be extinguished from our minds.
As I look back I see that this journey was a learning process not only for you; but more so for me. I learned to be more compassionate even when making no compromise on matters of discipline. And let me tell you, that balancing act was never easy.
At the early stages of my tenure here, many of you did not believe that you had the potential to be winners. Instead you mirrored what your critics said. You voiced aloud the negatives that others whispered in your ears. But soon you learned to shut your ears to all that and focus on just winning and nothing else.
Now it is time to say goodbye. Some things in life are not decided by logic, but by the dictates of the heart. Today I step down because I know with certainty that you can go ahead without me.
And now I get time to spend with my wife and kids. After having taught you to be the best how can I fail to set you an example in the arena where I cannot afford to lose?
The band is playing; the flags are fluttering; and kids are playing football here in the ground. But to me, it is time to walk away; to say goodbye with the knowledge that I have done my best; and by the grace of God have brought to the limelight a few who otherwise would have dwelt in the shadows; undiscovered and not valued.
So with a thankful heart, let me say goodbye. It breaks my heart to think that I will not walk with you one more time to these grounds that holds so precious memories to me. But that is how life is. The show has to go on; the torch has to be passed, and new leadership has to take over.
Thank you one and all for all the support you gave me over the years.
Respected Principal, dignitaries on the dais, and dear graduating students,
I am very happy and privileged to be part of your graduating ceremony. It brings back nostalgic memories to my heart as I think of that proud day when I stood where you are right now. Let me wish you all the best and thank the College Management who extended me the invitation to be here today.
Now let me share with you some thoughts on graduation day that I hope will help you in your career ahead.
There are milestones in life that we all cherish and draw inspiration from. Today is such a significant day in your life’s journey. You are about to step out into a future with many unknowns but holding unlimited possibilities and potential.
First and foremost have a thankful heart towards God who brought you this far in life.Be thankful for so many people–your parents, teachers, friends and many others whose positive influence, knowledge and encouragement made this day happen for you.
From now on it is a gifting back to society; a time to shine the light for those who follow; for those who need a word of encouragement; and for those who want to know that what they dream of can be done.
Now let me leave you with three thoughts that can shape your life, career and destiny ahead.
First of all, think about excellence.
I would like to bring to your attention what Vince Lombardi the legendary coach in American football said: “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavour.”
Excellence does not come easily to anyone.
It comes through pushing yourself beyond your limits every time you perform.
It comes through persevering in the pursuit of your goals.
It comes from getting up from where you lie wounded to fight one more round.
So commit yourself to excellence. It is a decision that can change your life and career dramatically. When you are thus committed and excellence becomes a habit in all that you do; those who come to contact with you will respect you.
Secondly, think about professionalism.
What is it all about? It is a mix of many things. It is about unending enthusiasm for work. It is about attention to small details. Again professionalism is having integrity and honesty in your life and work. It is the ability to step beyond doing your duty just for the sake of pay cheque.
Professionalism is again about teamwork. You may not find everyone you work with pleasant or having the same likes and dislikes you have. It is your ability to get along with them and work in harmony that is going to make even dull routines come to life. So learn to cultivate the ability to get along with people.
And never forget to smile. Make happiness go around. Be at your best every day. Manage your personal struggles and domestic difficulties so that it never affects your work. To wrap it up, professionalism is your ability to inspire confidence in others by the way you think, communicate, work and behave.
Thirdly, think about work-life balance
So far I have been talking about your career alone. Let me now say something about how to live a beautiful life before I conclude. Today so much is being spoken about achieving work-life balance. And it is indeed an important subject indeed.
You should never forget your families as you build your career. Hold on to the right priorities. As Jesus Christ pointed out in the Sermon on the Mount, Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all the material things you need in life shall be given to you as well.*
So the simple starting point is “God first.”
The second in the list is “Family.”
And “Work” is the third component.
If these three come in the right order, it is not difficult to achieve work-life balance. Remember if the canvas is not there; the painting ceases to be!
Conclusion
Now it is time to conclude. My dear students today you are graduating College. It means that you are about to give wings to your dreams. It means that you are ready to face the challenges ahead.
Each day would bring us new challenges. You need to remember that all your training here was to equip you to face the challenges of your work bravely. To your surprise you will find that many of life’s situations are those your text books taught to you nothing about. But that is the way it is; and this where you seek wisdom from God to run life without derailing.
So do not run away from duty, but take up your responsibilities with courage. And if you ask me what courage is, it is not the absence of fear. But it is the ability to do right in spite of whatever is terrifying you.
So my dear graduating students, you now stand on the shore ready to go on a journey into the unknown. Congratulations graduating class and may you find your hands steady at the wheel even when the ship pitches and rolls.
And never forget the three things I shared today with you:
Strive after excellence;
demonstrate professionalism;
and balance work and life well. Thank you.
We are all familiar with beginnings. They can be small steps but its impact can be experienced in giant leaps. Today graduates of this Institution of Nursing are making a new beginning through the lighting of candles. It is a symbolic act of the light that shines within your hearts.
First of all the light that shines is a reminder of the darkness outside. We live in a world where human rights are being violated. We live in a world where the elderly are being forgotten. We live in a world where children make friends through social media rather than face to face.
It is in this context that we need to understand our role in the nursing profession. We need to have a big picture of the suffering of people. It is not just physical illness that troubles people. More often it is the loneliness and the feeling of being deserted by friends and family that hurts people more.
So first of all we need to realize that there is darkness out there and we are called to shine our little lights in this darkness.
Secondly, the light that shines speaks about hope.
We are called to do little acts of kindness which kindle hope in the heart of a patient. It can be a smile. It can be a kind word of encouragement. It can be a timely help.
Or it can even be a pat on the shoulder or holding hands for a moment.
Yes, God has chosen you to be angels of encouragement.
Dag Hammarskjold the former UN Secretary General said,
“Constant attention by a good nurse may be just
as important as a major operation by a surgeon!”
So my dear graduates, today you are stepping into a new role. You are going to carry with you a ray of hope wherever you go even when life gets too busy and personal difficulties crowd out your day.
Finally, the light that shines is about burning out for others.
There is without doubt a selflessness in the profession of nursing. We are called to put others first. “As a nurse, we have the opportunity to heal the heart, mind, soul and body of our patients, their families and ourselves. They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” In those words of the famous author Maya Angelou we have a guideline for your life’s work.
Today, we are lighting the lamp. In doing so, we also remember Florence Nightingale, The Lady with the Lamp, who gave nursing such a highly favourable reputation.
Let me sum up.
The light that shines talks about three things.
One, it is a reminder of the darkness outside.
Two, it speaks about hope.
Thirdly and finally, the light that shines is about burning out for others.
My dear graduates I take this opportunity to wish you the very best in your academics and in your nursing career. Let the beginning that you make today always inspire you to cherish and uphold the values and traditions of the nursing profession.
Remember what Jesus Christ said,
“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
As far as you are concerned the light that shines is not about the pay cheque you take home; it is more about the countless number of lives of individuals and families you touch every day. It is about hope and cheer, of comfort and strength; a restoring of health and wholeness. May God give you wisdom and strength and the resolve to be such angels of encouragement. May people find heaven very near in you!
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
Note:
One of the most memorable Batch of BPPS was its 83rd Batch held at College of Nursing, Thiruvananthapuram (their 34th Batch), 61 students, 20 sessions and a total of 70 hours in the year 2005.
Bishop Jesudasan during prayer. 10th September 2008.
The afterglow of glorious sunsets colour the horizon with flaming hues. One such life remembered today is that of Late Most Rev. Dr. I. Jesusdasan, former Moderator of the Church of South India. He was someone called by God to leadership from very humble beginnings in life. His life was characterized by simple living, absolute trust in God, and integrity in speech and action. His life was deeply rooted in God’s Word, saturated by prayer, and spreading everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ.
യേശുദാസൻ തിരുമേനി: ദൈവവിളിയോടു വിശ്വസ്‌തത പുലർത്തിയ എളിയ ദാസൻ
His heart was always with the poor and the downtrodden, the marginalized and the suffering. He was gentle like a lamb when he dealt with the common man, rose in stature and towered mightily when he interacted with leaders, and thundered like a lion for the cause of social justice. Able to rise above partisan politics and interests; the unity of God’s people was always his utmost priority. He made deep impact in the theological world with his speeches and writings; the result of his years of meditating on God’s Word.
Bishop Jesudasan giving the benediction.
One of the crowning moments of his illustrious career came when the London Missionary Society celebrated the 200th year of its founding. Among the three speakers of the day he was the one representing Asia; the other two being Queen Elizabeth, and Bishop Desmond Tutu; representing Africa.
He enjoyed a personal relationship with many political leaders and never used those connections for personal gain but always for the common good. Always encouraging; he left an indelible mark in the minds of all those he interacted with.
He spoke to God in simple words with the certainty that he was heard. His theology was centred around the cross of Christ and he spoke of the sacrifice of Jesus as the light of God’s love that God caused to shine through his Son Jesus on the cross.
What you remember most about this great leader of men is his gentle smile, his being approachable by all, his prayers for those in suffering and pain, and the presence of God he brought along with him. Bishop Jesudasan was in all respect a servant leader with a shepherd’s heart for the poorest of the poor–a man who had passed through personal sorrow and became a channel of strength, godly counsel, and comfort to others.
Truly missed; but not forgotten, he many years after his home call still is looked upon with utmost respect, love and admiration. Like a bright star in the black night sky, his life lived with purpose and faithfulness to his calling will continue to shine its light for many more years to come.
Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!
——- Most Rev. Dr. I. Jesudasan was Bishop of South Kerala Diocese, Church of South India from 1973 to 1990. a period of 17 years which is considered as the golden period in its history (Consecrated as Bishop on 5th August 1973). He served as Deputy Moderator of the CSI from 1980 and was Moderator for three consecutive terms from 1982 to 1988. He was also a Member of the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches.
Fatherly love; Priestly blessing.
A short biographical booklet authored by Bejoy Peter was published on the life of Bishop Jesudasan (14 February 1925–16 June 2013) on his 85th Birthday.
Here is a man whose life and work mostly revolve around these historical places.
He was cradled in a manger in a tiny village in Bethlehem when Augustus Caesar ruled mighty Rome.
He was raised up as a carpenter; a man earning his daily bread in a poor home in Nazareth; a place of relative insignificance.
He calmed the stormy winds and waves of the Sea of Galilee with just his word, “Quiet! Be still!”
He preached with authority; healed the sick; cast out demons; fed thousands miraculously, and raised the dead to life. He was hungry and thirsty and slept when tired like any one of us. He was moved with compassion and wept when he saw human sorrow.
But the light in his life, darkness and evil forces could not tolerate. He, the Innocent One, was betrayed by his friend with a kiss; and even when found not guilty of any crime was crucified like a criminal on top of a hill called The Place of the Skull outside the City of Jerusalem.
There he bled and died; and left his tomb empty the third day. He lives for ever.
While on earth, he was God in human flesh; made common like you and me. He was tempted like all; but never ever even once did he cross the boundaries in thought, word, or deed. Therefore, he is moved with compassion when you cry out; “Lord, have mercy on me a sinner.” For he understands what you pass through. His love for you is steadfast and everlasting even when you fail dismally.
When you turn and come back even after wasting your life in wild living, he welcomes you to the presence of God. He will not accuse; nor does he find fault with you. “My friend, do you love me?” is the only question he asks. And that can break even a heart of stone to bitter tears.
In him and his poured out blood on the cross is found the forgiveness of your sins. From Bethlehem to Nazareth to Galilee to Jerusalem; his story therefore did not end in despair; but in one brilliant sunrise of hope for all: eternal life for all those who repent of their sins and believe in him; yes, for you and me.
He was before Time and remains the same yesterday, and today, and forever. Introducing the Man like none else, incomparable and above all; Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Son of God, Saviour, and Judge of all the earth; the Man of sorrows and familiar with pain; now crowned in heaven the King of Kings and Lord of Lords for ever and ever!
It is a great honour for me to introduce and welcome our Chief Guest this evening. He is an accomplished writer with several published works to his credit.
[Title] [Title] [Title] are some of the works that has critical acclaim and international recognition with [Title] winning the [Name] Prize.
His literary works have been agents of social change. His books have ignited a fire in every heart that dares to dream.
Today we are privileged to have an opportunity to listen to him this evening. On behalf of all gathered here I welcome you Sir to this literary evening of the International Book Fair.
Welcoming a Cricketing Legend
Often compared with the legendary Sir Don Bradman; and having a copybook style with shots on all sides of the ground; an entertainer of the crowds, one who wears his passion for cricket on his sleeves, a gentleman cricketer, a brand that sells, a run machine, a game-changer who rewrote record books, the man whose proudest moment came when he became part of the Indian team winning the world cup.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the man whose name is wedded to centuries, the inspirational performer whose wonderful cricketing journey; his life between 22 yards for 24 years enthralled and captivated the crowds in all the cricket playing nations of the world–Sachin Tendulkar.
I wish you joy and the ability to make music out of the discord and dissonance that will naturally arise. Two simple things that will keep you afloat and in harmony are saying “Thank you” and “I am sorry” with genuine and sincere hearts often.
Each day rise up with the intent to add something more to make your relationship stronger, your affection for each other richer, and your togetherness sweeter.
Do not let the mobile screen take away from your valuable time together. Instead, may prayers for each other rise in your hearts–prayers that will bless, encourage and protect.
May you be blessed with long life together and may faithfulness to each other shield your married life from all storms that may arise.
Let me wish you the centuries old priestly blessing and conclude:
The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
She is known for her ability to weave magic with the curious blend and mix of tradition and modernity. Her designs give us a sense of careless ease but is nothing short of impeccable perfection. Most of her dresses sport vibrant colours and serene patches.
One, who has stamped her imprint not only in the Fashion Weeks of London, New York, Milan and Paris; but also in the glamorous and traditional attires of models in their private appearances across the globe; and on the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival, Oscar Award nights etc.
She has been able to carve a niche for herself in the ever changing world of fashions with her uncanny ability to showcase talent and highlight personal branding.
A caring wife and a loving mother who has set her signature in floral designs; her outfits for the career woman exudes power and confidence. Please welcome the inimitable . . . .
Felicitation Speech During Sports and Cultural Fest Inauguration
Respected Chief Guest and other dignitaries present here today; a warm good morning to one and all.
It is my privilege to stand here before this gathering to wish the participants of this Sports and Cultural Fest all the best. The importance of sports and cultural competitions in nurturing talent and promoting good will and understanding between students of different institutions is well known.
I am happy that the alumni of our College under the able leadership of the Principal has taken the initiative to organize a national level competition for students of Arts and Professional colleges. I welcome all the participants and wish you all the best.
More than winning or losing; the spirit in which competitions are conducted deserves special mention. May these competitions bring out the best in you and spur you on to greater achievements in life. May the friendships you build across campuses through your participation in this event ever widen into better understanding and cooperation between students and teachers across the length and breadth of our country.
Let me conclude by wishing that each one of you will carry back from here some wonderful memories of this Sports and Cultural Fest that you’ll cherish for a long time to come.
Thank you.
Vote of Thanks
Respected Director of [Name] Hospitals, Respected Chief Guest of the Day, other dignitaries, colleagues, graduating students and parents,
We have come to the end of a memorable Graduation Ceremony and College Day Celebration. It is a day that marks a new beginning in the lives of graduating students. I am sure that these students would carry from here professional excellence on one hand and compassion towards fellow men on the other.
First of all I wish all graduating students a glorious career ahead where you’ll be the channels of God’s healing touch to a broken world.
As the Organizing Secretary of College Day Celebrations, I stand here today to propose the vote of thanks.
First of all our thanks are due to our Director, in charge of our Hospital and Educational Institutions who presided over this function. We are grateful to have had such an eminent administrator and a man with a vision and mission as our Director. His leadership is reflected in all developmental activities of our Institutions. Thank you so much for presiding over this function.
Our Guest of Honour for today is none other than [Name]. His priestly blessing is something graduating students will certainly treasure for years to come. For none of us achieves anything in life without God’s grace. So I thank you [Name] for your gracious words and for distributing prizes and scholarships.
We were indeed privileged to have had an eminent person our Chief Guest today. He is the Vice Chancellor of the [Name] University. He is a man who looks forward to reform the whole education sector with the aid of technology. We were honoured to have listened to your insightful speech on the importance of quality education, integrity, and utmost dedication in the medical sector. On behalf of all gathered here, our heartfelt thanks to you Sir.
Our thanks are also due to [Name] for making all feel welcome at this college day and graduation function; and, [Name] for presenting the annual report. Thank you Madam. [Name] was gracious enough to administer the oath to the graduating students. I do hope that it would motivate our graduating students to proceed in their chosen career with hope, vision and courage. I would also like to thank [Name] for giving voice to the vibrant thoughts of the graduating students.
As a key stake holder of this institution let me tell all of you that the time has now come for you step out of this cosy nest and fly on your own. The training and discipline you got from this college will definitely carry you through. And when you feel overwhelmed by challenges know that God will carry you in his everlasting arms spread underneath you.
Finally let me thank all the distinguished guests once again and also my colleagues, members of the teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, and beloved students whose dynamism you will witness in the cultural programmes tonight.
Let me end by challenging you to go out and shine your light. As Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Go out and shine and let the world rejoice with hope at your shining light. Thank you all once again.
Sample Acceptance Speech
Respected Chairman, dignitaries on the dais, and all others present,
A warm good morning to all of you.
It is with a deep sense of humility that I accept the award you have chosen to bestow on me. On behalf of my team, let me express our thanks and gratitude for choosing me and my team for this award.
This is an occasion to celebrate and remember all those who made it possible. In particular, let me thank all the colleagues in my team in this moment of great gladness.
There was a sense of deep commitment to the vision of reaching the completion of this project within the given deadline among the members of our team. We are glad that we could do so through hard work, determination, best utilization of man and machine power, and perseverance.
So this award belongs to not just one person but to the entire team who worked tirelessly and with great enthusiasm and single-minded aim.
I also would like to thank our clients for putting their faith in us. Your faith in us had given us tremendous confidence and on this occasion we are glad to have you present here with us.
An award is a milestone on a long journey. So it is not an end; but a new beginning. It is a time to look back and look forward at the same time.
On this occasion let me tell you that our Company is still eagerly looking forward to the taking up of new projects in the area of renewable energy resource management.
There are several dream-projects ahead of us. This award will inspire us and motivate us to continue to pursue excellence more and more in all that we do.
I would like to dedicate this award to our CEO for his inspirational leadership, relentless pursuit of excellence, and ability to speak words of wisdom in times of change and challenge.
Thank you all once again. And let us join hands for a better future ahead as we try to make this earth a better place through our projects and achievements. Thank you.
Felicitation at a Christmas Carol Singing Competition
This night was heaven-breathed. I stand here to felicitate all the participating choirs. Your efforts have not only made this evening special but also brought near to us the joy of the first Christmas.
At a time when Jesus, who was born a child in a manger, is marginalized today during Christmas celebrations, your song selections–both traditional as well as contemporary–helped us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Let me congratulate all the winners. May this victory inspire you to make greater efforts to make harmony that will save the world from all dissonance of war, worry, and strife.
I wish all of you a blessed Christmas. Indeed, God came near to us through Christmas. And in Jesus we have a trusted friend. He is our Saviour and Lord and worthy of our highest adoration and worship.
May the love of God and the gift of peace come to you as each one of you go back home tonight even as the heavenly melodies you heard continue to ring joyous bells of Christmas in your hearts.
Blessed Christmas once again even as all of us with prayerful hearts stand holding out lighted candles to sing together the most loved carol of all times, Silent Night, Holy Night!
Sample Felicitation Speech at Youth Leadership Awards Function
Respected Chairman, Honoured Chief Guest, Dignitaries, Asia Pacific Region Youth Representative Elect Mr. …. , Office Bearers, and all delegates attending,
Good evening one and all.
I am privileged and excited to stand here in the midst of this exuberant ambience in this auditorium in the Lion City.
As I look around I see not just youthful faces but potential, diversity of talent with extraordinary drive, ambition, and above all commitment to excel.
Time flies. As I stand here memories flood my mind and there is a surge of emotions hitting me like wave after wave.
I remember distinctly an evening like this when I was elected to be the Asia Pacific Youth Representative thirty years ago in that august meeting held in New Delhi.
That night will always remain special in my mind. It was the first time a woman from India was selected to that post. It then created an increased interest among college students about the philanthropic activities of our Organization.
With today’s oath taking, he is all set to shift gears on to a global stage. His vision about the contribution of youth in our Organization, his charismatic personality, individual talent, persuasive communication skills, extraordinary ability to get the momentum going in all initiatives will definitely set standards of excellence.
His declaration of policy tomorrow, I am sure, will find an eager and enthusiastic following.
On this momentous occasion, let me congratulate this young dynamic youngster doing his Master’s in Business Administration on his election. Let me, on behalf of all gathered here, and as the Senior President of the Asia Pacific region wish him all success.
I assure him off our prayers, cooperation and support.
Respected Principal, dear colleagues, graduating students and others gathered over here, a warm good morning to one and all.
This is a defining moment in the life of each one graduatingfrom our reputed College of Nursing. You added colour and variety to this institution and I can tell from experience that as a batch you have been really unique.
Not only were you good at academics you proved your mettle in all the co-curricular activities as well. In one word let me tell you, “Well done!”
The time has now come for you step out of this cosy nest and fly on your own. The training and discipline you got from this place will definitely carry you through. And when you feel overwhelmed by challenges know that God will carry you in his everlasting arms spread underneath you.
On behalf of the entire College community I wish you all the best for your career ahead.
At the same time, I would like to leave with you three words. Vision, Hope, and Courage. These three words are like three pillars of strength that will hold you strong throughout your life and career.
First of all, let me talk about vision.
We belong to the great tradition lighted by Florence Nightingale, the lady with the lamp. It was her vision that gave rise to modern nursing care. This was later given greater breadth and scope in India by people like Dr. Ida Scudder who paved the way for women empowerment and a great institution like CMC Hospital Vellore. You too are part of this vision—the vision of being called to serve.
Carry this vision forward and know that your work will be rewarded someday.
Secondly, let me talk about hope.
Each one of you is called to gift hope to people. There is no other group of professionals to whom others look with expectation more than the nursing community. This is because we are the people who bring cheer and hope when everything looks difficult and dark for the patients and their bystanders as well.
Therefore let us never forget to smile and do our work cheerfully even when we are hard pressed on every side.
My final word is courage.
Each day would bring us new challenges. You need to remember that all your training here was to equip you to face the challenges of your work bravely. So do not run away from duty, but take up your responsibilities with courage. And if you ask me what courage is, it is not the absence of fear. But it is the ability to do right in spite of whatever is terrifying you.
Therefore be bold even when you are meek, assertive even when you are humble, daring even when all others shrink back in fear.
I wish you all success. And I hope the day will soon come when others will tell us about you—angels of encouragement, pure in heart and true in deeds—the shining ambassadors of our College community.
Yes, dear students, go as angels of encouragement and make this earth a better place for the entire human race. Thank you.
Respected Principal, Beloved Teachers, Dear Parents, and my fellow students,
