Rev. Fr. Roy Joseph

Dear Fathers and Brothers,

I hope that all of you are keeping well and have safely returned to your respective formation houses and places of appointment.

I sincerely thank each one of you for your faithfulness, dedication and commitment to our Society. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that there were some who did not take up their responsibilities on time and acted against the rules and regulations of the Society.

We understand that it is not easy to change habits and practices that have been followed for some years. Change takes time, patience and openness. However, we must remember that we are accountable not only to the Society that cares for us, but ultimately to God Himself. Every day, we are called to examine our fidelity to our vocation and mission.

Without a spirit of belongingness, unity and fraternity, it is impossible to build a renewed and vibrant Society. Today, there is a growing tendency among some to seek only personal comfort, money, vehicles, gold or property, while neglecting the needs of the community and fellow members. Such an attitude may appear satisfying for a time, but eventually it leads to loneliness, isolation and emptiness, especially in old age and moments of weakness.

Let us not fall into this trap. Rather, let us strive to live as true brothers, walking together, supporting one another and building a family spirit where we share our joys, struggles, responsibilities and resources like the early Christian community.

I deeply appreciate the patience and courage shown by many of our members. The increasing number of needs and demands faced by the Provincial Leadership clearly shows that we are challenged to build a stronger and renewed ALCP Society in India.

In the spirit of greater transparency, we have decided to make known to all the various needs of our members, houses and parishes that we receive in these days. The needs are many, while our sources of income remain limited. We began with very little and we continue to address one issue after another with trust in God's providence.

It is no secret that we depend greatly on the generous support of our members and benefactors abroad, especially from Germany. Therefore, I humbly appeal to all our members to be patient, understanding and supportive toward the leadership, recognizing that not every issue can be solved immediately.

This is the time for us to rise above our differences, stand united and contribute generously to the growth of the Society. As St. Paul said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Likewise, John F. Kennedy reminds us, "Ask not what your province can do for you—ask what you can do for your province."

Let us therefore be genuine, transparent, responsible, accountable and fully committed to our mission, so that together we may bring positive change and ensure that the fruits of our hard work are shared by all and not enjoyed by only a few.

May the Good Lord enlighten our minds, transform our hearts, and strengthen us to become faithful and strong pillars of our Society.

With prayers and blessings,

Rev. Fr. Roy Joseph
ALCP/OSS
Provincial Superior – India Province