The CRI Mumbai Unit, under the leadership of Sr. Cyrilla FSMA, President, and Sr. Rosely DSP, Secretary, organized highly relevant and engaging sessions on 8th and 9th of July 2023. The event took place at both Divine Child High School and Nirmala Niketan, thoughtfully organized to accommodate participants from both North and South Mumbai. The sessions centered around the captivating and insightful topic, “Social Media and its Impact on Religious Today: Digital Life in the 21st Century and Behavioral Problems of Young Sisters and Brothers.” The charismatic presence of Dr. (Fr) Paul Pudussery CSC from Guwahati, a renowned orator and expert in his field, held the rapt attention of the eager audience. A total of 115 participants from Andheri and 90 from Churchgate were held spellbound by Fr. Paul’s engaging discourse, which extended from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the respective days. His unique blend of apt music, compelling content, and entertaining videos ensured an enriching experience for all present. The captivating sessions delved into the profound impact of the 21st century’s Information Technology era and how the world has undergone a trans-formative shift, particularly concerning religious life.
Fr. Paul eloquently highlighted the significance of strategic planning and continuous learning for religious individuals, especially in the face of challenges posed by a decline of religious vocations in Asia. Emphasizing the power and potential of social media as a tool for religious engagement, Fr. Paul underscored the importance of media literacy in the context of our rapidly changing world. Today, knowledge is dynamic, de-institutionalized, and inter or intra-disciplinary, demanding critical thinking and computational skills for making well[1]informed decisions. In a world where accountability and responsibility have become paramount, Fr. Paul urged religious individuals to move beyond the blame game and instead take ownership of their roles as messengers of God’s presence. Being media-literate and re-educating ourselves is the call of the hour, as we must navigate the digital landscape wisely without hindering the younger generation’s religious growth.
The pedagogy of religious communities must adapt to the changing times, as media becomes an essential tool for imparting spiritual wisdom and insights. Drawing inspiration from the profound words of Pope Francis, Fr. Paul reminded the attendees that the religious life should exemplify God’s presence, reflecting humility, generosity, and self-forgetfulness as a counter-culture of spirituality. Addressing the challenges faced by religious communities today, Fr. Paul delved into issues of leadership, mission dilution, fear, and a lack of skill and competency. To embrace a new world, old patterns must be broken, and unity should prevail over individual congregations. By engaging with people joyfully and speaking their language, religious communities can become a united force for positive change in this Post-Truth Era and amidst global gatherings like the G20.
The call for transformation and excellence is clear, as religious individuals must strive to be the best versions of themselves, leveraging social media responsibly to foster authentic relationships and disseminate valuable information. It is a plea to avoid becoming slaves to technology but rather to use it as a means to enhance connections and advance the greater good. In conclusion, the sessions in Mumbai served as a powerful reminder of the imperative to embrace change, to adapt and evolve in the face of a rapidly evolving world. As religious individuals, we must rise above the challenges, equip ourselves with knowledge, wisdom, and compassion, and use social media as a tool to uplift humanity by building bridges of love and understanding. Let us walk forward, hand in hand, as one united group, and together, herald a new era of hope and enlightenment.
United in Prayer: Seeking Peace and Mercy for Manipur
In times of difficulty and persecution, Pope Francis reminds us of the power of prayer to bring strength and unity to the Church. Praying together, interceding for our suffering people as Esther of the Old Testament did is a prophetic act. Just as the early Christian community joined in fervent prayer during their moment of crisis, we, too, as Mumbai CRI unit united in prayer on 25th June in unison before the Blessed Sacrament in our chapels for the land of Manipur and its suffering people.
May our prayers ignite a trans-formative force, uniting us as one human family, transcending borders and divisions. In our prayers, we ask God to grant wisdom and guidance to those in positions of authority, that they may work diligently to bring about peace and justice in Manipur. Let us also pray for the aid workers and peacemakers who selflessly serve the affected communities, bringing hope amidst despair. As we unite in prayer, we place our trust in the unfathomable mercy and love of God, knowing that through faith and prayer, miracles can happen. May the Lord hear our cries for Manipur and bless its people with the gift of peace that surpasses all understanding. May our collective prayers be a powerful force for transformation and healing in the troubled land of Manipur.
Dr (Sr) Mudita Menona Sodder RSCJ
Mumbai.
A Prayer for Manipur
In the heart of Manipur, where mountains touch the sky,
Amidst the fields of beauty, where troubled spirits lie,
We gather here in prayer, with hope that never dies,
To lift our souls in unity, beneath Heaven’s watchful eyes.
Oh, Divine Light above, shine upon this land,
Where sorrow’s tears have fallen, like grains of desert sand,
In every troubled heart, plant seeds of hope anew,
And let them bloom and flourish, with colors bright and true.
Guide us through the darkness, as shadows haunt the night,
With courage as our armor, we’ll rise to claim the light,
May unity embrace us, like rivers to the sea,
Connecting every soul, in bonds of love and glee.
Where violence once did linger, let peace now take its place,
With every step we tread, we’ll leave a trace of grace,
Oh, Providence, surround us, with wings of love and care,
And let your gentle presence, alleviate despair.
In every corner of this land, let laughter freely soar,
Releasing hearts from burden, like eagles high above,
Embrace the broken-hearted, mend wounds with tender art,
Oh, Healing Spirit, bless us, with hope that springs from the heart.
With hands held tight together, we’ll build a brighter day,
Where hope’s eternal flame, will never fade away,
For in this sacred moment, united we shall stand,
As one, for dear Manipur, we’ll change its fate by hand.
So let this prayer resound, like echoes in the breeze,
Across the hills and valleys, beneath the ancient trees,
May hope become a beacon, a guide for all to see,
That through the darkest moments, hope shall set us free.
Oh, Great and Gracious One, who hears our every plea,
In your embrace of mercy, we find our sanctuary,
Bless Manipur with hope, and let compassion flow,
From every heart, a river, of love and hope to sow.
And when the dawn awakens, a new day will be born,
With hope’s sweet song resounding, a symphony adorned,
In unity, we’ll rise, like morning’s gentle sun,
With hope for dear Manipur, our victory is won.
-Teresa Joseph –
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