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Jnanodaya Institute Opens Academic Year with Call for ‘Cathedral Thinking’ and Philosophical Excellence

Yercaud, Salem

Fr. Doss Kennedy SDB, Provincial of the Tiruchy Province, Fr. Victor Antoniraj SDB, Vice-Provincial of INT, Fr. Ricopar Royan SDB, Economer of INT, and the institute's residential staff.

Jnanodaya Institute Opens Academic Year with Call for ‘Cathedral Thinking’ and Philosophical Excellence

7 June 2026

Formation,

News reported by: Fr Selva SDB

The Jnanodaya Salesian Institute of Philosophy, The Retreat, Yercaud, formally inaugurated its new academic year on June 6, 2026. The institute welcomed 38 students from five Salesian Provinces in India and the Diocese of Den Bosch in the Netherlands. The students begin a year of intellectual formation and philosophical inquiry.

The student community includes 12 students from Chennai (INM), 12 from Tiruchy (INT), 3 from Guwahati (ING), 4 from Hyderabad (INH), 6 from Shillong (INS), and 1 from the Diocese of Den Bosch (DDB). This reflects the institute’s diverse and international character.

The inauguration began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The community invoked the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the academic year ahead. Fr. Doss Kennedy SDB, Provincial of the Tiruchy Province, presided over the Mass. Fr. Victor Antoniraj SDB, Vice-Provincial of INT, Fr. Ricopar Royan SDB, Economer of INT, and the institute's residential staff concelebrated.

In his homily, Fr. Doss Kennedy emphasised how divine wisdom shapes philosophical formation. He urged students and staff to seek the Holy Spirit's inspiration rather than rely solely on worldly wisdom. He encouraged the academic community to stay open to God’s guidance throughout their intellectual journey.

After the Eucharistic celebration, the Provincial hoisted the college flag. The staff and students ceremonially honoured the flag. The formal inaugural programme continued in the SOLA Hall. Fr. Arul Maran, Rector of the institute, welcomed the gathering and introduced the new faculty members. Fr. Abraham Savarimuthu then delivered his inaugural lecture, presenting a synopsis of his doctoral research titled "Anatheism of Richard Kearney: A Possible Way of Returning to God after the Death of God."

Fr. James Sundar SDB, Principal and Dean, presented the Annual Report for 2025–2026 through a video, highlighting the institute’s academic, formative, and educational achievements. Second-year students added a creative dimension by staging the philosophical skit Jnanodaya Philosophical Museum and showcasing key insights from both Western and Indian philosophical traditions.

Delivering the keynote address, Fr. Doss Kennedy introduced the theme of “Cathedral Thinking.” He encouraged students and staff to cultivate a long-term vision, persevere, and innovate, even when immediate results are not apparent. He challenged the academic community to think beyond the present. He urged them to contribute to projects and ideas that will bear fruit for future generations.

The Provincial also released the latest edition of the Jnanodaya Journal. He also released the college handbook and academic calendar, presenting copies to members of the faculty and student body. Fr. Felix Joseph, Director of Youth Services and Professor, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the community singing the college anthem.

After the inaugural function, the institute’s staff met with the Provincial team during the team's initial visit. The group discussed academic programmes, institutional planning, budgetary provisions, staff responsibilities, and future developmental initiatives.