US missionary awarded for Hindi Catholic writings

The priest has done many translations into Hindi.

Bihar, November 5, 2012: An American Jesuit priest in Patna was awarded for spreading Catholic faith through his extensive writings in Hindi language.

Father Devasia Mattathilany of Patna archdiocese conferred Father Jerome Durack with the fourth Cherubin Barno Sahu Memorial Award, (CBSMA) for 2012 on Nov. 3.

The Award consists 6500 rupees and a Certificate.

“It is because of Sahu’s teaching that I have mastered Hindi language so well. He taught us to speak and write Hindi within four months of my initial formative years as a Jesuit,” said 83-year-old Fr. Durack.

The priest has done many translations into Hindi. Currently, he is the secretary to the bishop of Bettiah.

Archbishop William D’Souza of Patna said that Fr. Durack’s contribution to Hindi language has been remarkable

“His prolific writings on religion, catechism, spirituality and moral issues are inspirational,” the prelate said.

The priest has written books on the lives of saints and regularly contributes to Pavitra Hriday Ka Sandesh, a Hindi Catholic magazine published by Prabhat Prakashan.

The CBSM Award is jointly instituted by Patna Archdiocese, Patna Jesuit Society and Prabhat Prakashan.

Late Sahu is considered as one of the best lay Catholic Hindi writers of Patna. He has written numerous novels, stories and poems on Catholic themes to spread the faith.

Sahu also composed many hymns which are being used for liturgy today.

– ucan