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Healthy Dialogue that Unites

Healthy Dialogue that Unites

On November 1, 2023, Pope Francis issued a concise document encouraging theologians to address the everyday challenges of life and actively participate in dialogue with non-believers. Keeping this in mind, I would like to reflect on my own experiences with non-believers and offer a few suggestions that can help us better understand their perspective of life.

During a journey, I engaged in a conversation with a person who identified as a non-believer but was curious about religious life. Initially hesitant, I mustered the courage to answer his questions. When he inquired about how it is possible to remain unmarried, I responded, “By God’s grace.” He then challenged me, asking where God is. Stunned, I explained that we believe God is present in others, as we are created in His image and likeness. He further questioned the need for an invisible God when one can practice values like love and respect without it. I defended my belief by stating that our conscience, which directs us to do good, is a manifestation of God. The non-believer argued that he lives a meaningful life by helping others based on his conscience. When I asked what guides his conscience, he admitted he couldn’t express it.


Sr Benny D’Cunha UFS

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Cover Story

OPEN YOUR HEART

OPEN YOUR HEART

In my tenure as the principal of St. Xavier’s, a women’s college managed by my congregation, I encountered a unique situation involving a Muslim family seeking admission for their daughter. The young girl seemed reluctant, and upon inquiry, her mother explained that she preferred a mixed gender college nearby. However, her father insisted on her attending our institution run by sisters. Observing the girl’s hesitance, I expressed my concern, suggesting that if she were forced into an environment against her wishes, it might adversely impact her academic performance. Addressing her father, I emphasized the importance of granting children the freedom to choose their educational paths in this evolving era. It took considerable effort to convince the father, but eventually, he relented. As the family left my office, there was a palpable sense of peace. Just before departing, the daughter returned, took my hands, and expressed her gratitude. I encouraged her to excel in her studies and not to disappoint her parents. The outcome of this encounter remains unknown to me, but in that moment, a small victory for the autonomy of the young student was achieved.

Having been raised in a family of nine, where the insistence on a convent education was particularly emphasized by my father, all five girls, myself included, were enrolled in the renowned convent school of our city. Looking back, it is undeniable that the education we received at this esteemed institution played a pivotal role in shaping the successful and contented lives that all of us lead today. The impact of our convent schooling is perhaps most evident in the life choices made by my sister and me. Influenced by the disciplined atmosphere and the emphasis on spiritual matters, both of us decided to pursue a religious vocation, albeit in a different congregation. Today, we find immense happiness and contentment in our chosen paths, all stemming from the educational foundation laid in the convent school during our initial years. While my memories of school are enduring, they often revolve around the strict rules and punishments that characterized the environment. Teachers and nuns were figures to be feared, and the freedom for students to express themselves was notably limited. Despite the stringent atmosphere, the positive outcomes of our education are unmistakable in the fulfilling lives we lead.


Sr Shalini Xavier CTC

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Cover Story

Learning from Personal Experiences

Learning from Personal Experiences

I had a meaningful experience at the Kuki Worship Centre in Byrathi, Bangalore, led by Rev. Lunmang Haokip. In response to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Rev. Haokip opened his church to shelter 300 internally displaced people from June 2023. It was during one of their Sunday noon gatherings that I, accompanied by some of our lay associates, went to meet the community. With utmost respect, they invited us to join in their fellowship and communion service. After the service, we entered into conversation about the refugee crisis and their adaptation to life in Bangalore.  Rev. Haokip, with remarkable courtesy, shared insights into their situation, emphasizing, “Our people do not like to be known as migrants or refugees but as internally displaced since we are within India.”  He went on to explain that many had found temporary placements in malls, shops, restaurants, hostels, and shelter homes. These individuals had experienced an abrupt loss of everything, rendering them in need of emotional and spiritual support more than material and financial assistance. As our conversation with Rev. Haokip and other Kuki community members deepened, a poignant message emerged: “The Catholic Bishop, clergy, and religious have done so much to reach out and they stood by us in these most critical times in Bangalore.” Their hope resonated strongly as they expressed a wish for such compassionate outreach to extend universally, stating, “We wish this happens everywhere wherever people suffer violence, hatred, and loss of dignity.”  Recognizing the sense of acceptance they felt, they expressed their readiness to join hands with us and celebrate Christmas meaningfully, aiming to bring more joy to their displaced brethren. This encounter marked the beginning of more conversations that transcended boundaries, creating a sense of unity rooted in shared humanity and a commitment to mutual support.


Sr. Anitha Precilla Lobo, SCB

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Cover Story

The Art of Dialogue in Priestly Formation

The Art of Dialogue in Priestly Formation

The art of conversation is to be the art of healing the wounds of the world. The absence of healthy conversation is the beginning of the breakdown of relationships. For example, when Adam and Eve hid themselves from the presence of the Lord among the trees of the garden of Eden and hesitated to converse with the Lord, one of the first breakdowns of relationship happened. Many of the problems in the communities (local/national/international) arise from the ‘flight mode of conversation’ of their members. In fact, a ‘non-conversation state’ is a ‘frozen state’ (that does not have any growth) in human relationships.

Context

The apostolic letter Ad Theologiam Promovendam (‘To Promote Theology’), released by Pope Francis on November 1, 2023 in the form of a motu proprio, presents a vision for the renewal of theological pursuit within the life of the Church. The letter calls for an ‘outgoing theology’ that develops in a culture of dialogue and encounter between different traditions and different knowledge. Thus, one of the crux of the teachings of this apostolic letter hovers around the concept of ‘dialogue’.


Fr Binny Mary Das

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CRI News and Events

Addressing Challenges in Faith

Addressing Challenges in Faith

The Catholic Church in West Bengal and Sikkim held a three-day annual regional meeting of BRBC–CDPI–CRI from 14th to 16th November 2023 at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Krishnagar. This is a body comprising of BRBC(Bengal Regional Bishops Council), CDPI(Conference of Diocesan Priests in india) and CRI(Conference of Religious of India) of both Major Superiors and Local CRI Unit Executives. A total number of 82 members attended the meeting.

The inaugural prayer, led by His Grace Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes SDB and the Local CRI Unit of Krishnagar, commenced with a graceful prayer dance. The prayer, centered on the theme “You are the Salt of the Earth and Light of the World,” concluded with the Synod prayer. Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes, the host, extended a warm welcome to all the participants with music and melodious singing. He provided a glimpse of the rich history of the Diocese of Krishnagar. Sr. Sabrina IBVM, President of CRI-WBS, welcomed and felicitated the Bishops and major Superiors, and introduced the dynamics of the meeting. The congregation was asked to silently reflect on the following questions and share their responses in groups:

  1. How am I feeling as I am here?
  2. What are my expectations?

Fr. Ronee and Fr. Anselm conducted an ice-breaking session to set the mood.  Fr. Vivien SJ, Secretary of Regional CRI-WBS presented the Minutes of the meeting held in the previous year.

The themes for this year were “Current situation in India and our vocation” and “Witnessing Jesus in a digital age.”

The Keynote speaker Fr Cedric Prakash SJ, a renowned Social, Human Rights and Peace Activist and Writer was invited to share with us his insights and facilitate the group on the first day. In his talk on “Current situation in India and our vocation” he first spoke about the vocation we have received and how we are set apart to be different like Jesus. Jesus who was born in a stable and died on the cross is the one to whom we have committed our lives. Jesus critiqued the situations around Him: if He could do so, why are we afraid to stand up, to take risks and to ask questions? Fr Cedric Prakash challenged the group, stating that we choose, at least occasionally or at times to be in our comfort zones. We need to understand the CONTEXT of today. Jesus knew His context. For example, the desert experience of Jesus: He knew that He was in a position to use power, privilege, prestige and pride and yet He did not give in to evil, but rather rejected all worldly attractions. It is time now that we re-visit the vision and mission of our Founders. Compassion is the most important virtue needed to reach out to the poor and the needy. It becomes possible through proper discernment and a total commitment to the call.

In his talk Fr Cedric reminded us that most of the time we are with our Church/Convent compound mentality. Taking risks is narrowed down due to fear. Look at the life of Jesus. He stood up for truth. Here is a point to reflect: is it better to do nothing or do something and die on the cross as Jesus did? What is the journey ahead? We need to be prudent and should have the sense of direction and not compromise in this because Jesus came to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted. Situations in Manipur and different parts of the world, is a warning sign for us to stand up united and fight for the cause. Addressing the current Indian scenario and our divine calling, Fr. Cedric emphasized our responsibility to stand up, question, and address societal issues fearlessly, echoing Jesus’ courage to challenge prevailing norms.

In the following session, participants were encouraged to discuss and share their insights on the primary concerns, challenges, and noteworthy issues that hold paramount significance in both the Church and the country. Following the discussions, Father Cedric shed light on the Indian Constitution, considered the most sacred document for a citizen of India. He delved into key articles and the essential, interrelated dimensions of the Constitution, urging everyone to exercise their right to vote and inspire others to do the same. During his engaging session, Father Cedric Prakash animatedly enlightened us about the significance of understanding and appreciating our Constitution. He particularly emphasized learning and teaching others about the Preamble and the fundamental rights and duties embedded in our constitutional framework. Concluding the session, Father Cedric challenged us to wake up and raise our prophetic voices. He stressed that it is high time to begin, starting with each individual (‘I’). He encouraged us to familiarize ourselves with the Constitution, get involved, and join the civil society, collaborating with people of goodwill. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, especially as we approach the 2024 elections, Father Cedric urged everyone to ensure that their names, as well as those of community members, co-workers, friends, and collaborators, are on the electoral rolls. Exercising our franchise and encouraging others to do so, he emphasized, is our responsibility as citizens and as religious individuals committed to our people.

A session on “Witnessing Jesus in a Digital Age” led by Sr. Joeyanna FSP explored the significance of being empowered by the Holy Spirit in navigating the digital realm. Sr. Joeyanna began the session by asking us to imagine, what if Jesus was born in this digital age? What would have been His presence in the social media and what about His preaching? Jesus was totally in connection with His Father and He was filled with the Holy Spirit. The Father sent Him on a Mission (Lk 4:18). She highlighted the need to strengthen connections with the divine to authentically represent Jesus in the digital space while cautioning against the spread of fake news and rumours. In our fast-evolving world, we proudly discuss innovations like ChatGPT and AI (Artificial Intelligence). She emphasized the increasing demand and widespread use of AI in her speech. A short video on the moral implications of AI was shown. She addressed the intersection of AI and human dignity, discussing challenges like the erosion of agency and autonomy, risks of algorithmic bias, discriminatory practices, and the moral implications of AI. Additionally, she touched upon the importance of digital literacies.

On the last day, Fr. Supriyo Biswas CDPI President, Krishnagar, presented the report of CDPI 2022-2023. Fr. Jude SFX presented the CRI Major Superiors’ report on Ecological Conversion done by the various congregations. Fr. Vivien SJ presented the report of Regional CRI & CRI Local units of WB & Sikkim, as well as the data of the number of Religious communities and its members in WB & Sikkim. Sr. Sabrina and Fr. Vivien encouraged the CRI units to have a common plan and agenda and create a CRI vocation team and a database of the religious specialized in certain areas, which could help the Region in general to make the best use of the human resources available in our region.

A new book, Biblical Characters – Exemplars of Synodal Leadership, written by Sr. Inigo SSAM, and published by Pauline Publications, was released by Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes.

In the afternoon, the group convened to formulate a concrete and time-bound action plan for the upcoming year, building on insights from the two key topics discussed by the resource persons. Fourteen smaller groups proposed three action plans each for consideration in the coming year.  A core committee was formed to focus on the three main issues. The elected Core committee members are Bishop Vincent Aind, BRBC Vice President, Fr. Arjen Tete SJ, Sr. Jane Nadackal SMI, Fr. Supriyo Biswas CDPI, Fr. Lawrence D’ Almeida SVD, Sr. Diana D’Souza and the Regional CRI-WBS Team.

The three days’ meeting concluded with a Thanksgiving Eucharist concelebrated by Rev. Thomas D’Souza, the Archbishop of Calcutta, and other bishops and priests present. At the end of the Mass the newly elected CRI Regional Team, Sr. Maria Diksha AC (President), Sr. Celine Fathima SSAM (Vice President), Sr Crescencia Sun RNDM (Treasurer), Fr. Arjen James Tete SJ and Sr. Anice Thekekudy SCCG (Executive members) were given a special blessing.

We remain ever grateful to the organizing team members, Sr Sabrina IBVM, Fr Jude SFX, Sr Diksha AC, Sr Celine SSAM and Fr Vivien SJ for their selfless and dedicated service in the past years. This Annual Regional Meeting served as a platform for reflection, dialogue, and collaboration, aiming to empower and guide the Catholic community in addressing contemporary challenges while staying true to their vocation and faith.


Sr Sofia Thomas FSP

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Special Articles

RECIPROCAL LOVE

RECIPROCAL LOVE

Sunita Madam, a beloved Nursery class teacher, found herself in a medical emergency, requiring urgent hospitalization during her seventh month of pregnancy. The ensuing days unfolded with a mixture of hope and despair as she delivered a baby boy, who, unfortunately, was born deformed and unhealthy. The doctor, faced with the challenging circumstances, reluctantly declared his helplessness in saving the fragile child. The news of the child’s condition was a devastating blow to the family, who grappled with the harsh reality before them. The situation faced by Sunita, known for her friendly and welcoming nature, became a significant test of faith for her colleagues. Their trust in a benevolent God who cares for His children was shaken, and a somber mood enveloped the school community. In this trying time, an interesting shift occurred in the beliefs of the local people. Instead of turning to their favorite gods and goddesses, they looked up to the figure of Jesus adored by the Sisters’ in the community. The devotion and faith of the sisters in Jesus became a source of solace and inspiration for those seeking comfort in times of danger.

Raising our hearts in prayer, we, the Sisters, ventured into the hospital,  desiring to see the new born babe and hoping for a miracle. However, our earnest plea to the medical staff to have a glimpse of the child fell on indifferent ears. Undeterred, I humbly implored the doctor, “Please give us just one quick chance,  a solitary moment to touch the child.” In response, the doctor, with a grave expression, questioned our understanding, reminding us of the imminent tragedy unfolding. Undaunted, I softly asserted, “Doctor, we are educated Nuns, mothers to many, not indifferent to any soul’s plight.” Despite initial resistance, they acquiesced, bringing the fragile child to us in a small tray. Gently, I extended my finger and touched his lips in a silent, sacred communion.


Sr Mariella CTC

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Finance

TRANSFER OF OPERATION & CONTROL AGREEMENT

TRANSFER OF OPERATION & CONTROL AGREEMENT

Dear Readers, till last year we were reaching out to the financially poor schools of other societies by giving donations to the mother society. In the light of the Government restriction on inter-society donations, here I am presenting a way to deal with the situation.  Without transferring the property, we transfer only the operation and control of the school under an agreement.  Here the need for the financial support of the school is genuine and we are within the provisions of the Income Tax Act. Hence, it may be wise to execute such an agreement and a handover resolution of the giver, and a takeover resolution of the receiver of the school. The same could be followed for any unit, other than the school.

 This AGREEMENT is made on …(date)… between:

(1) The First Party, … (name)…whose address is …(address)… and (2) The Second Party, …(name)…, whose address is …(address).

WHEREAS, the First Party is the absolute and sole owner of …………..,  both the property and the school with the hostels therein, referred to as the School hereinafter, located at ………………

It is agreed as follows:

  1. Aim

1.1 This is a Transfer of Operation and Control Agreement.

1.2 The Governing Body of the First Party enters into this Agreement in order to enable better running of ……….. School and the boys’ and girls’ hostels therein, hereinafter referred to as “The School” with better facilities.

1.3 This Agreement sets out the arrangements and primary terms and conditions whereby the Governing Body of THE FIRST PARTY transfers the operation and control of the School to the Governing Body of THE SECOND PARTY:


Fr Alex G SJ

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Interview

A Pastor at Heart

A Pastor at Heart

Inspired by a priest who truly lived among and cared for his flock, Father Andrew Aranha wholeheartedly embraced his role as a dedicated pastor, focusing on nurturing the hearts of young individuals in his ministry. In an interview with Ms. Janina Gomes, he reflects on his journey of instilling a sense of pastoral commitment in the formation of those he guides.

  1. Tell us something about your earlier years and your upbringing in the family.

I grew up in Chembur, a Mumbai suburb. My father was an engineer,working for Burmah Shell refineries (later Bharat Petroleum) and my mother was a schoolteacher. My four siblings and I had a happy childhood. We were fortunate to grow up in a beautiful residential colony with access to many facilities, including two clubs for sports,besides other leisure activities. We also had a wide circle of friends from different communities. At the same time our family rules were quite strict, especially regarding daily Mass and the rosary, and only rarely – and for very good reasons – were we excused from them. After my father retired in 1986 we relocated to Goregaon East. We always were a close-knit family, and still are, even after my parents passed away around five years ago.

  1. How did you feel the call to become a priest and a diocesan one?

The “call” didn’t happen all at one moment, but was experienced in different ways, over many years. From an early age I felt drawn to religion, especially sacred music and the quiet, peace-filled ambience of empty chapels and churches. At school, religion-class was one of my favourites.I also loved reading Bible stories and watching biblical films. Nevertheless, some negative experiences with certain priests dissuaded me from thinking seriously about the priesthood. My interest revived after we moved to Goregaon and I joined our very vibrant and active parish youth group and choir. Serving our parish community through these groups brought me great joy and fulfillment. The call grew stronger after the arrival of a particular parish priest. Fr Philip Komaranchath, O.S.J. (Oblates of St Joseph). He was a pastor with the smell of the sheep, and endeared himself to all with his genuineness, simplicity, humour, and very pastoral nature. I wanted to be like him. Initially I had no plan to become a diocesan priest. In fact, I informed Fr Philip that I wished to join the Oblates,but he advised me to apply to the diocesan seminary, and that is what I did.

  1. Tell us something about your formation years as a seminarian. Who were the people and what were the events that made an impact on you?

Seminary life in Goregaon during the 90swas less regimented than I expected.The dominant ethos was one of freedom with responsibility.Some professors had a strong “social justice” slant, though it was never imposed on us. The experiences that I cherish most were the initial Orientation year,which helped us to understand ourselves, overcome our blocks, and grow as persons; I also valued the moderator group system, which taught us about diversity, teamwork, and accountability. Many of our formators and professors were outstanding in their field: Fr Vincent Pereira (Psychology), Fr Jean Mercier (Philosophy), Fr Aniceto Nazareth (Music and Liturgy), Fr Albert Menezes, SJ (Scripture), and Fr John D’Mello (Sociology).

  1. In your seminary formation, you had some pastoral appointments. How did these experiences help you in your priestly formation?

Pastoral formation was– and continues to be – one of the strengths of the Goregaon seminary. The well-structured program of weekend pastoral work exposed us to different parish ministries in a graded and systematic manner. Hence we were able to handle these important ministries with greater confidence when we stepped out as young priests.I particularly cherish the ‘Regency’year (the pastoral year between Philosophy and Theology studies,) when I was privileged to work in the Raigad district with Fr Fred Sopena, SJ, an outstanding Jesuit priest and missionary. His humanity, warmth, compassion, dedication,and humour made a huge impact on me. I learnt so much from him about ministry, about the priesthood, and about life itself.

  1. Tell us something about your pastoral experience after your ordination.

I was ordained in the year 2000 and appointed as an Assistant to the parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, Kalyan West. I spent two very happy and fulfilling years there. My parish priest, Fr Franklyn Mathias, was a wonderful pastor – resourceful, creative, and a joy to work with. From him I learnt the value of teamwork, collaboration, empowerment, and reaching out to those on the peripheries. I also experienced first-hand a unique experiment: the close pastoral collaboration between the parish teams of Kalyan W, Dombivli, and Ambarnath. We jokingly christened ourselves “the Northern Alliance,” since we were among the northernmost parishes of the archdiocese.However, our objectives were totally pastoral: a sharing of resources and personnel to minister more effectively to the five parishes in the Dombivli-Badlapur belt. That blissful period ended for me in 2002 when I was transferred to the seminary as a teacher and formator.

  1. You have a Licentiate in Sacred Scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute (PBI) in Rome where you were from 2005-09. How did those years of study help you as resident teacher and formator in St. Pius X seminary?

Licentiate studies at the PBI (or Biblicum)are demanding, especially the initial year, focusing on biblical Hebrew, and Greek. I found it doubly challenging, never having studied Hebrew, Greek, or even Latin in the seminary. For those who persevere, however, the rewards are great in terms of the exposure to expert biblical scholars, and the depth of biblical knowledge gained. A special experience was the semester of studies in the Holy Land. Our professors at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem were not just outstanding scholars but also wonderful human beings. That experience was a fantastic example of inter-religious collaboration. An added blessing was to live at the PBI community with the great Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini. We students learnt so much from him as a scholar and pastor. My studies at the Biblicum greatly enhanced my love for learning and teaching biblical languages, ancient history, and cultures. It has also influenced my own approach to teaching the Bible in terms of better understanding the difficulties of students, yet challenging them to expand their horizons,to work hard, and to develop a love for scripture.

  1. You have been a seminary professor and formator for almost 20 years. What do you see as the main challenges in seminary formation?

Apart from the near universal crisis of dwindling vocations,the constant challenge is to accompany seminarians from diverse backgrounds who are at different levels of maturity – emotional, psychological, spiritual, and affective. Such formation is critical given that we are now living in the age of universal internet access, which demands a more critical outlook and higher levels of personal discipline, maturity, and spiritual strength. In the field of academics we struggle with the widespread lack of a culture of reading (let alone critical reading) and the tendency to look for “shortcuts”.A packed seminary schedule leaves little or no time for students to reflect on some major issues facing the church: questions about celibacy, sexuality, and gender; artificial intelligence …. It’s a challenge to equip seminarians to respond to these questions with credibility and pastoral sensitivity.

  1. Tell us something about the St Pius X Institute of Theology(SPXIT), of which you are the Director. In what way will it contribute to theological formation of seminarians, Religious, and Laity in the archdiocese?

SPXIT was set up in June 2023 with responsibility for the academic formation at the archdiocesan seminary. We are affiliated to the Faculty of Theology, Jnana Deepa, in Pune. This step signifies the formal ecclesiastical recognition of our program of studies. The comprehensive five-year program, comprising two years of philosophy, followed by three years of theology, is designed as per the guidelines in the document Veritatis gaudium(2018). Students who successfully complete the course requirements are awarded a canonical baccalaureate degree in theology (S.T.B.) that is recognised by many universities and institutes of higher learning around the world. The Institute program ensures a high quality of philosophical and theological formation and provides our students with the necessary theological foundation for their pastoral ministry.


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Movie Review

Moview Review : The Fourth Wise Man | Face of the Faceless

Moview Review : The Fourth Wise Man | Face of the Faceless

The Fourth Wise Man (1985) Runtime 72 mts

Director: Michael Ray Rhodes.

Cast:  Martin Sheen, Alan Arkin, Eileen Brennan, Ralph Bellamy, Money Penny.

“The Fourth Wise Man,” (1985) directed by Michael Ray Rhodes, explores the lesser-known legend of Artaban, a fourth Magi, based on Henry van Dyke’s novel, “The Other Wise Man.” Grieving the loss of his family, Artaban, a wealthy Medianite, embarks on a journey to find the newborn King of the Jews, inspired by the Star of Bethlehem. Despite discouragement from friends, Artaban sacrifices his wealth for gifts – a sapphire, a ruby, and a “pearl of great price.” Along the way, he encounters obstacles, such as caring for a dying wayfarer and organizing his own caravan. Artaban learns of the birthplace in Bethlehem but arrives to find the Holy Family has fled to Egypt. His acts of charity and encounters with those in need delay his quest for thirty-three years. Accompanied by his loyal servant Orontes, Artaban witnesses the trial and crucifixion in Jerusalem, where he meets Peter and aids an enslaved girl with his precious pearl. Despite an accident preventing a close encounter with Christ, Artaban finds solace in Christ’s voice in his dying moments, realizing that his acts of kindness were accepted: “Verily I say unto thee, Inasmuch as thou hast done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, thou hast done it unto me.” The gift had already been accepted.

Face of the Faceless (2023) Runtime: 136 mts

Director: Shison P Ouseph

Cast: Vinshy Aloshious, Jeet Matharu, Sonali Mohanty, Jackson Varghese, Ajeesh Joseph, Anjaly Sathyanath, Fr Stanly Kozhichira., Poonam Ingale et al

Currently in Indian theaters, this biopic recalls the life of Sr. Rani Maria, a Franciscan Clarist nun martyred in 1995 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Born in Kerala, she dedicated herself to empowering the rural poor in Indore, particularly the marginalized tribal communities. Despite facing opposition and hatred from the powerful and wealthy, Sr. Rani Maria, affectionately known as “Indore Ki Rani,” tirelessly worked to uplift the impoverished, focusing on women empowerment. The film portrays her four years in Bhopal and Indore (1990-1994), depicting the challenges she encountered from moneylenders and the feudal system. The narrative culminates in her tragic martyrdom at the hands of an ignorant hireling named Samunder Singh, sent by moneylenders to halt her mission. The movie also highlights the villagers’ resilience and dignity amidst adversity. It underscores principles of non-violence, forgiveness, and compassion, echoing national ideals. The narrative takes a poignant turn as Sr. Rani Maria’s Congregation and family reconnect with Samunder Singh in an act of forgiveness. The film concludes with Sr. Rani Maria being beatified on November 4, 2017, emphasizing the enduring values of non-violence and compassion encapsulated in India’s cultural ethos.


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Special Articles

Vision of Pope Francis

Magnet Web Jan 2417

In an enthralling convergence of intellectual acumen and theological insight, the symposium titled “Redefining the Mission: Pope Francis and the Contemporary Landscape of India,” organized by the Department of Missiology in collaboration with Pontifical Mission Organizations, India, at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute in Bangalore, unveiled Pope Francis’s trans-formative vision. Scheduled from November 14th to 16th, 2023, the event was aimed to redefine the Church’s mission in the light of the contemporary challenges facing India. Prof. Dr. Michael Amaladoss, SJ, Founder of IDCR, Loyola College, Chennai and Prof. Dr Felix Wilfred, Director of the Asian Centre for Cross-Cultural Studies, Chennai, leading voices in the symphony of theological discourse, took the stage for keynote and gathering the fruits, revealing a tapestry woven with inclusiveness, justice, and a profound understanding of dialogue and mission.

Unraveling Pope Francis’s Vision

Prof. Amaladoss, in a masterful exposé, navigated the nuanced aspects of Pope Francis’ pastoral discernment. With a spotlight on ‘social friendship’ and a ‘culture of encounter,’ he dismantled hierarchical notions, advocating for an atmosphere of inclusiveness and mutual respect. Prof. Wilfred added by exploring Pope Francis’s vision of fraternity as a social practice. Love, he emphasized, is the basis for ‘social friendship’ and ‘universal fraternity.’ The parable of the Good Samaritan was presented as a true form of social friendship that sows seeds of trust in a violent world. Thus, Pope Francis advocates the universe as a divine gift meant for universal sharing. The compassionate stance on migrants resonated, aligning their rights with a broader understanding of human dignity.


Fr Loyola Diraviam SDC

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