Bishop Xalxo Urges Students to Choose Truth and Holiness at St. Albert’s College Day

RANCHI, August 29, 2026: Auxiliary Bishop Anand David Xalxo of Ranchi called on students to make a conscious choice for truth, goodness and holiness as St. Albert’s College, Ranchi, celebrated its College Day with prayer, fellowship, sports and a colourful display of India’s cultural diversity.

The celebrations, held in honour of the college's patron, St. Albert of Louvain, began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Xalxo and concelebrated by priests associated with the college.

In his homily, the Bishop reminded the congregation that every human person is a “temple of God” and therefore called to respect both personal dignity and the dignity of others.

Holiness, he said, is not merely an ideal to be admired or an emotion to be experienced, but a conscious and firm decision to choose what is good and reject what is evil.

Drawing inspiration from Joshua, St. Paul and St. Peter, Bishop Xalxo reflected on the courage required to remain faithful to God. He noted that each of them chose the path of God despite suffering, opposition and difficulties, and encouraged students to place truth, goodness, holiness and fidelity to God at the centre of their daily lives.

The celebration also brought the college community together on the football field, where the Theology Team and the Philosophy Team played a friendly match marked by competitive spirit and camaraderie. The Theology Team emerged victorious with a 3–2 win.

A cultural programme later showcased the diversity of India's regional and tribal traditions. Bishop Xalxo attended as the Chief Guest, while Fr. Ajit Kumar Khes, Provincial Superior of the Ranchi Jesuit Society, was the Guest of Honour.

Fr. Ajay Kumar Xalxo, Rector of St Albert’s College, welcomed the guests, faculty members, staff and students and reflected on the significance of College Day in strengthening the identity and fellowship of the college community.

Students presented cultural dances from northeastern India and South India, along with traditional tribal dances and skits in Mundari and Kharia. The performances offered glimpses into the life, traditions and cultural heritage of tribal communities.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Xalxo said culture and cultural heritage preserve the historical identity and collective memory of a people. He urged students to take pride in their heritage and not abandon the traditions that form part of their identity.

At the same time, he observed that culture is not static and evolves with changing times. He encouraged young people to critically examine traditions, move beyond practices that have become outdated or harmful, and use their knowledge, talents and creativity to help shape a better cultural future.

The College Day celebration brought together the spiritual heritage of St Albert’s College with fellowship, sportsmanship and cultural expression. It offered the college community an occasion to recall the inspiration of its patron saint and renew its commitment to faith, fraternity, service and human values.

By Fr. Praful Bara