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“Your perception creates your reality. You can look at life and see scarcity or abundance. It depends on your mindset.” – Joe Vitale

We ended the previous article with a promise to discuss a very special quality namely, PERSPECTIVE-TAKING, which I believe, is the highest manifestation of the cognitive dimension. This is the second important and essential quality in the wholeness paradigm. It is good to remember the first important quality in our paradigm is CONSISTENCY, which is the highest manifestation of the physical dimension.

Steven Covey’s concept of Vision 

The whole-person paradigm of Stephen Covey considered Vision as the highest manifestation of the mind. In his book, The 8^th Habit, Covey suggested that vision is, “seeing a future state with the mind’s eye. Vision is applied imagination.” (p. 70). He continued to claim that we create all things twice: first in the mind and then in reality. It’s like having a blueprint of the house in hand before setting out to construct the house. For him, the cognitive faculty of a person finds its highest manifestation when that person is able to envision in one’s mind the future course of action. He claimed that the most important vision of all is to “develop a sense of your own destiny, a sense of your own unique mission and role in life, sense of purpose and meaning” (p. 72).

According to Covey, vision is a futuristic quality, something that prepares you for the future, a special capacity to achieve great things in life. Of course, for Covey, vision is not only achieving something or accomplishing a task. It is something more than that: it is about discovering one’s inner potential, expanding one’s capabilities and ultimately, realizing one’s full potential. Therefore, to summarise Stephen Covey’s concept of vision, we can say that those who possess vision, they also possess clarity and farsightedness about what they want to do in life.

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Fr. Dr. Joseph Jeyaraj, sdb

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When I was teaching in a school at Bellary, Karnataka, many years back, a mother approached me, expressing her desire for a personal conversation. She revealed her unfulfilled dream of becoming an engineer due to financial struggles. Now, with the means to support her children’s education, she wanted her daughter to be a doctor and her son an engineer. She urged me to pressure them to excel academically. This situation may resonate with many parents. This prompts me to ask the question: Are we projecting our unfulfilled dreams onto our children, or are we allowing them to discover and pursue their own passions? As teachers and parents, let us support our children in uncovering their hidden potentials and fulfilling their unique aspirations.

Relentless Competition

After attending parent-teacher meetings and signing their children’s Progress Reports, many parents are eager to know the grades of other students, fostering a sense of competition. However, it is crucial to question whether we are teaching our children to compete with themselves. Rather than encouraging healthy self-improvement, an excessive focus on outperforming others can lead to a lifelong pattern of relentless competition. It is essential to guide our children to compete with their own capabilities. If we instill a mindset solely focused on surpassing others, they may carry this attitude into their professional lives, creating a stressful and potentially harmful work environment. This hyper-competitive spirit may drive them to constantly pursue material success, leaving little room for life’s joys and potentially harming relationships with others.

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This article based on a recent presentation given to Jesuit Counsellors and Psychologists Forum, explores the multifaceted aspects of addictions, shedding light on the profound spiritual sickness that lies beneath the addictive cycle.

1.  Addictions around and within

Today, it is uncommon to find an individual or family whose life has not been directly or indirectly affected by some form of addiction.

Therapy is necessary not only for individuals struggling with addiction but also for family members who endure the associated trauma. Trauma due to addictive parent(s) falls under the category of ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences), mandating the need for healing and counselling; something novitiate programs need to take into account.

Irrespective of where we live, there will be no shortage of people trapped in severe addictions. Ministering to individuals and families grappling with addiction is undeniably a vital necessity within the Church today, even as new forms of addictive behaviours emerge.

2.  Cyber addictions and Workaholism

One of the rapidly expanding addictions in contemporary times is internet related addictive behaviours. And this concern extends to religious as well and very little is being done in formation (initial and ongoing) to address this concern.

A bigger concern or a false god among religious is workaholism or the preoccupation with work, even outside working hours. We worship work and feel unimportant if we are not working enough. Short questionnaires at the bottom here could reveal whether you could be an addict to work and/or the internet.

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Br. Sunil Britto CFC

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The Gift of Love: A Christmas Story (1983)

Director: Delbert Mann

Cast: Lee Remick, Polly Holliday, Angela Lansbury, Michael Higgins Joe Warren, Michael Pearlman, Mart Hulswit.

“The Gift of Love: A Christmas Story” (1983), directed by Delbert Mann, is a heartwarming Christmas drama adapted from Bess Streeter Aldrich’s short story ‘The Silent Stars Go By.’ It centers on the life of Janet Broderick and her family in Ohio facing financial crisis during the Christmas season. As the store faces bankruptcy and Janet’s marriage with Neil strains, a series of events, including the sudden death of her mother, push her to the brink of a nervous breakdown. Janet is put to bed, and enters into a long sleep lasting two days.  In this state she  experiences a magical time travel to her childhood home in Vermont, rediscovering the warmth of her family and the true meaning of Christmas. The narrative weaves in Janet’s relationship with Neil, her Aunt Minerva’s lost love, and the mysterious visits of a ‘Christmas ghost’ linked to the children’s adventures. The climax unfolds on the night before Christmas eve when Michael goes missing in the snow, leading to a desperate search. Janet learns from her mother about the true ‘secret place’ – a space within the heart where love resides and miracles happen. This revelation transforms Janet, bringing about a heartwarming reunion and a joyful ending with carolers singing at their door. The film emphasizes the enduring power of love and faith.

A Hidden Life (2019)

Directed by    Terrence Malick

Cast: August Diehl, Valerie Pachner, and Matthias Schoenaerts, with Michael Nyqvist and Bruno Ganz

The movie presents to us the inspiring life story of Franz Jägerstätter, the hero and martyr of the German church who became a symbol of resistance against the Nazi war machine during World War II. The film draws its title from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians 3:3, reflecting on the notion that one’s life is hidden with Christ in God after death. Franz Jägerstätter, initially a simple farmer, undergoes a profound transformation into a devout and committed Catholic. He was part of a vibrant rural parish set in the mountain village of St. Radegund, where he and his wife Franziska (Fani), raised three daughters. Soon Austria is annexed by Hitler’s Third Reich. Their happy life is disrupted when Franz is drafted into the German army separating them for months. When France is annexed and the war seems to be ending, Franz returns home.  However, when the war intensifies, Hans along with the other young men of his village are ordered back to the field. Hans despised the Nazi ideology on grounds of his strong faith and refused to take the required oath of allegiance to Hitler and his regime. Facing ostracism from his community and the disapproval of the local bishop, Franz remains steadfast in his refusal, knowing it means almost certain execution as a traitor. Throughout his imprisonment, Franz engages in an active correspondence with Fani, finding strength in his unwavering faith. Meanwhile, his family endures criticism and victimization from their village due to Franz’s bold decision. Despite months of torture, threats, and temptations, Franz refuses to declare loyalty to Hitler. On August 9, 1943, Franz Jägerstätter was executed by the Third Reich. His family, including Fani, survives him, and his legacy endures. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to his principles, Franz was beatified by the Church in October 2007.

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The first time I caught a glimpse of her was on a November afternoon in Bogota, while riding the bus one. I was utterly stunned and couldn’t believe my eyes. Determined to confirm what I saw; I made it a point to get a good look at that particular statue of our Lady in the front garden of a big house in the northern part of the city the following week. Fate, however, was not on my side, as I found myself standing and unable to get a closer look. Undeterred, the third week, I decided to interrupt my journey and got off the bus. And there she was—the unmistakably white statue of the Virgin of the Poor.

            It took me a few more weeks to muster the courage and finally knock on the door. You see, we Missionaries of Charity Brothers share a special connection with Mary under this title. The year was 1999 and statues like this were exceptionally rare to come by. This particular representation of Mary is striking in simplicity—a young woman, slightly inclining forward, her hands folded in prayer, dressed in a long white gown with a blue sash and a transparent white veil. Her only one foot is visible,  on top of which lay a single rose.

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Br Carmel Duca MC

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Embark on a compelling exploration of faith and leadership as Cardinal Gracias shares profound insights in a candid conversation with Janina Gomes. Gain a deeper understanding of his trans-formative journey as a prominent figure steering the course of the Church in India.

1. Tell us something about your early years and how you felt called to the priesthood.

I come from a deeply Catholic family. Family prayer was important, our parents taught us Gospel values and love for the Church. Besides, I had three uncle priests in Goa, so the parish fathers would regularly come to visit my parents. Also, I was deeply impressed by the life of Msgr. George Fernandes, (now Servant of God) who was my parish priest and School Principal for many years. He was much esteemed and loved by all the people. He actively encouraged me to join the seminary.

2. As former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI)  what is the direction in which you led the church and what were your priorities?

Yes, I was very involved both in the CBCI and the CCBI, first as Secretary General of the CBCI where I had the responsibility of preparing new Statutes since St John Paul II had asked the Bishops of India to start a new Episcopal Conference for the Latin Rite bishops. Later, I was the CBCI Vice President for two years and then the President for eight years. My focus at that time was to strengthen the functioning and public relations of the CBCI: fostering good relations with the Government, with the other Christian Churches and with the Media. I had an efficient resident Deputy Secretary General and a united Staff, and we worked as a good team.

As for the CCBI (Latin Bishops’ Conference), I was the President for twelve years. Initially the CCBI had no clear self-identity, since the CBCI was already functioning effectively to the satisfaction of the bishops. The Bishops felt there was no need for another Episcopal Conference but there were some canonical problems so the Holy Father intervened. My specialization in Canon Law was a help. So I attempted to give the CCBI an identity with appropriate structures and to make it what the Vatican Council wanted Episcopal Conferences to be. There was now a new situation in India, we had the CBCI and the CCBI, two distinct episcopal bodies. It helped for coordination that I was for some time President of both – the CBCI and the CCBI simultaneously. I tried to ensure that there was no rivalry and competition as St. John Paul II had explicitly advised in his letter to the bishops of India. I am convinced that a strong CBCI is necessary for a strong CCBI and a strong CCBI is necessary for a strong CBCI. It would weaken the Indian Church very much if these two Bodies do not work in harmony. I am presently on a small task force appointed by the Council of Cardinals to study the nature of Episcopal Conferences and their future possibilities. Our Indian situation is truly unique. We have many challenges. This is still a work in progress.

3. As former President of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC) what issues were taken up at the Asian Level?

Asia is not homogeneous, and each country has its own special challenges. Being FABC President was a unique learning experience. I wanted the FABC to assist our smaller Churches. We did make a beginning! We also had the first ever FABC General Conference in Bangkok in October 2022. It was called FABC 50 because it was celebrated on the Golden Jubilee of the FABC foundation. It was a successful event and I think it could give a new thrust to the Church in Asia. I am sure it will help the synodal process and the synodal process will help the FABC. At the structural level I tried to ensure that the different Offices at the FABC collaborate with each other and have joint projects. This has still to be improved. Fr. Ray O’Toole was the Secretary General of the FABC for many years and worked much towards this. Plans were moving ahead for revitalization of all the offices, but he unexpectedly fell ill and never recovered.  The FABC now has a good identity, and its voice is heard at the universal Church level.

4. At the international level you are part of the 8 member Council of Cardinals, to assist Pope Francis, and help in the governance of the Catholic church. What changes in the church have you been part of at this decision-making level?

Our Council of Cardinals has been very active and meets with the Holy Father five times a year, with each meeting lasting three days. We discussed whatever the Holy Father wanted us to advise him about. He set the agenda. Specifically, we tried to see how the Roman Curia could be more at the service of the Holy Father and of the Bishops in the local Churches.  We discussed in great detail about the functioning of the Roman Congregations, now called Dicasteries, and hence our Council made a contribution to Praedicate Evangelium. We discussed many important topics for the Church: evangelization, appointment of Bishops, transparency in finances, the media, etc.

5. As a member of the Roman Rota and Member of the Congregation for Catholic Education, what have been your unique contributions to these bodies?

I discussed many canonical matters especially with the Dean of the Rota. We particularly studied how Tribunal procedures would be speedier and smoother. I am also a member of the Council for Legislative Texts and I look forward to seeing how we can bring Synodality into the Code of Canon law. I regret I was not able to contribute much to the Congregation for Catholic Education because I was on different Roman Bodies and the meetings of this Dicastery always clashed with some important meetings in Rome or back home in India. However, I represented the Dicastery at its Asian Meeting in Bangkok.

6. As Bishop of Agra for six years, what were the challenges you faced in North India?

I was new to Agra and new to being an independent Archbishop. I was apprehensive because when I went to Agra it was my first visit to the place and I did not know any priest or religious there,  nor had any idea of the pastoral challenges of the place. Would I be accepted in Agra or treated as an outsider? I had six very joyful years there. My priority was to establish good relations with the civic officials and the local people. There had been a bit of violence against Christians just before I went there and Archbishop Vincent Concessao, my predecessor, had a challenging time. Things gradually improved. Since Agra was a small Archdiocese, I had the possibility of trying new pastoral methods and putting systems in place. The Clergy was very supportive and so were the religious. We worked together with a common vision. When I was transferred from there after six years, I felt I should have stayed there a couple of years more to consolidate what I began.

7. As Archbishop of Bombay what are your chief joys and challenges?

Bombay is a very established Archdiocese with all required structures in place, its set traditions mainly because of my very illustrious predecessors, Cardinal Valerian Gracias, Cardinal Simon Pimenta and Cardinal Ivan Dias. Each made his unique contribution to the growth of this Archdiocese. My comment on my first visit to the Seminary when I returned to Mumbai after six years in Agra was that it was too much an inward-looking Church. However, because of its long tradition it was difficult to change much. It is a big Archdiocese and I feel we should help the smaller churches more. CCBI’s “Communio” was born out of this desire. On the other hand, I regret that because of my many national and international commitments I was not able to concentrate sufficiently on the Archdiocese. I had, of course, good auxiliary bishops, competent and able to replace me in my absence. But I wish I did concentrate more on the Archdiocese.

8. What would you say you have gained and learnt through your interactions at the international level?

I met the Holy Father often and I am very inspired by him. The more I work with him, the more I understand his deep spirituality and his vision of the Church. I enjoyed very much my interaction with my brother Cardinals: in particular the camaraderie, commonality of vision, desire to work for the Church and loyalty to the successor of St. Peter. It has also helped me to grow spiritually. I realize more and more it is the Lord’s Church which works so well in spite of our human frailty.

9. What difference do you think synodality has made in the functioning of the Archdiocese in Bombay?

Synodality is work in progress. We had very successful preparatory meetings in the Archdiocese guided mainly by my Auxiliary, Bishop Allwyn D’Silva to whom I had delegated this responsibility. We will surely make greater progress in Synodality and have greater clarity as we go ahead. The Roman Synod in October 2023 endorsed what was done and gave us encouragement to continue. We will use the year ahead to have more programmes so that we get as many involved in the church as possible. I am hopeful and even excited about this.

10. The church is today functioning in a hostile environment in India. What would you advise your flock to do in the face of so much violence and victimization?

I would not exaggerate the challenges. One must have faith, hope and trust in the Lord. The Lord has risen indeed! We must adapt all our Church policies according to local circumstances. There is so much we can do for the spread of God’s Kingdom. My advice is: Deepen in your holiness. Trust in the Lord. And continue to do your good work. Never get discouraged!

11. Do you have any Christmas message for the Religious of India?

Christmas is a time for rebirth and recommitment, a joyful time. Since I am writing for the Magnet, I must have a message to the Religious. I wish the Religious in India and the Bishops worked more in deeper collaboration. I have been a bishop for a fairly long time. Collaboration was a challenge for us twenty-five years ago and remains a challenge even today. As President of the Episcopal Conference, I could have worked more for this. We are one Church. The Religious are doing such marvellous work with great dedication. Our bishops are committed and self-sacrificing. I know how good they are and how much they do. What a great impact it would make on the lives of many if we worked more in coordination. This is the challenge for both of us, the CBCI and CRI.

12. Is there anything you would like to add?

Magnet is a good means for spreading the Good News and it could be a good instrument for ongoing formation of the religious. I have always found the articles informative, educational, and helpful for the apostolate. I thank the CRI and the Editorial team for all that they have done. God bless you. Do continue your good work!

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Cardinal Gracias Speaks

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On October 4, 2023 a brightly burning light in the tribal heartlands of Jharkhand, Bihar, Orissa, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal was extinguished just a few days before October 15 when he would have completed eighty-four years on this earth.  A man who has been looked upon by myriads of Oraon, Munda, Kharia and the Santhal tribal men and women as a symbol of grace and elegance.  He has given identity to the Church of Chotanagapur particularly and the entire tribal belt spread out in several states.  Chotanagpur is the region of Jharkhand where the tribes are in large population. As the Archbishop of Ranchi, His Eminence Cardinal Telesphore Toppo made known his people and their sensibilities to the Church of the entire country and the whole world.

Chotanagpur Church

In 1868 Fr. Agustus Stockman S. J., set out on an arduous bullock cart journey from Midnapore to Chaibasa in Jharkhand at the direction of Archbishop Walter Stein, S.J., of Kolkata.  He established a station there in 1869 and after four years of intense efforts of Fr. Stockman, Archbishop Stein on his first pastoral visit baptized 28 Munda men, women, and children. Eventually these zealous missionaries ascended the highlands of the Chotanagpur plateau establishing several mission stations.    Among the fervent Jesuit missionaries from Belgium and Germany, Servant of God Fr. Constant Lievens, S. J., stands out as one whose ministry lasted just seven years, but with the greatest output.  His motto was, ‘The Fire Must Burn.’  He realized that “the whole country groaned under the weight of the most shocking forms of injustice”, land alienation, zamindari, exorbitant interest rates, and such ills.  He worked for their emancipation and thousands of ‘Adivasis’ who found solace to their misery in the good news brought by these men of God.   Since then, hundreds and thousands accepted the Catholic Faith and today the faithful among these tribes are spread in several dioceses across several states of the country.

Son of the Soil

Born on October 15, 1939 in an Oraon Catholic family in the remote village of Jhargaon in the present diocese of Gumla Cardinal Toppo’s journey has been a remarkable one. As a kid he walked around 5km daily to attend the Primary School and later even a greater distance to attend the High School, at Barway, Chainpur.  He was ordained a priest on 8 May, 1969.  Nine years later, on 7 October, 1978 he was consecrated as the Bishop of Dumka. On 8 November, 1984 he was appointed the Auxiliary Bishop of Ranchi and one year later he took charge as the Archbishop of Ranchi.   On 21 October, 2003  Archbishop Toppo was elevated to the status of a Cardinal, the first Asian tribal bishop to receive this honour.

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Fr Manoj Abraham TOR

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As the joyous season of Christmas unfolds once again, it beckons us to rekindle our fervor and love for Jesus. This Christmas, let us strive for a unique experience—one that goes beyond the normal festivities.  In the midst of the lights and carols, Christmas emerges as the essential embodiment of synodal solidarity, weaving together the threads of a global narrative that transcends borders and echoes through the ages. In the very essence of the Christmas story, we find diverse elements converging in harmony for a shared purpose. The shepherds from the fields, the wise men from the East, and the Holy Family all converge in Bethlehem, their singular journeys intertwining to create a narrative that goes beyond individual stories. This harmonious convergence, marked by a guiding star and a shared love for the newborn Babe, mirrors the spirit of synodality—a collective pilgrimage toward a shared destination.

How can we make this season different for ourselves and those around us?

The answer, for me, lies in constructing a sacred space within our hearts, our lives, and our relationships—a spiritual crib that encapsulates the essence of the Bethlehem Babe. In our pursuit of joy, we often embark on external searches, adopting what Pope Francis calls ‘a disposable spirituality.’ It is crucial to remind ourselves that the treasures we seek desperately outside are, in fact, within us.  Thus, the first step is to carve out a space within ourselves for the rebirth of the Bethlehem child.

Equally important is extending this creation of space to others. How can we achieve this?

By cultivating selflessness which opens the door for the authentic celebration of Christmas within our hearts. Creating and nurturing networks of love and support with others contribute to the collective warmth of the season. Responding to Pope Francis’s call, we must actively engage in the spirit of synodality and solidarity, understanding that our shared journey as a global community enhances the richness of our celebrations. During her sharing at the Synod, Sr. Nirmalini AC, the CRI President, emphasized the need for cultivating an environment of dialogue and solidarity among us as members of the Church. Listening with intent and empathy deepens our connections with others, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience.

In the December edition of Magnet, we present three cover stories, all centered around the theme of Synodal Solidarity. Friar Babu Jose explores Synodality as an Emblem of Hope Reborn, shedding light on its trans-formative potential. Ms Grace David, a participant in the first meeting of professional lay ministers in Rome, shares her firsthand experience of engaging in the various synodal processes, connecting people from diverse corners of the global church. In the third cover story, Fr Jayaseelan reflects on Synodality and global solidarity, presenting it as a pivotal moment for the Church to reimagine its identity as a people on pilgrimage.

Amidst the challenges of unrest and war that mark our human experience, the other articles within this edition provide insights into how dedicated individuals continue to live out the values of solidarity. This editorial invites readers to delve into the December issue of Magnet, inspiring a season of reflection, connection, and renewed commitment to the spirit of synodality and solidarity.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the writers whose words breathe life into these pages. Your stories enrich our collective narrative, shaping a Christmas season that is not only joyous but inspirational. To our dedicated readers, we extend our warmest thanks. Your engagement and reflection are the heartbeat of Magnet, and it is our hope that this edition sparks conversations, contemplation, and a renewed commitment to the values of synodality and solidarity.  A heartfelt acknowledgment goes out to the many and new earnest writers who consistently contribute their articles for publication in Magnet. We are diligently working to accommodate your valuable contributions, considering the constraints of available space. A sincere thank you also extends to all who grace our letters to the editor column with their heartfelt expressions. Your engagement and thoughtful letters contribute immeasurably to the vibrant exchange of ideas within the Magnet community. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to fostering a space where your voices continue to enrich our publication.

Lastly, a special appreciation goes out to our editorial team and the team here at CRI, Delhi whose tireless efforts have shaped this edition. Your dedication to excellence has illuminated the path for a Christmas season that is not just observed but lived. May this season be a tapestry of shared stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of synodality and solidarity. From our hearts to yours, Merry Christmas, and thank you for being a part of the Magnet family.

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Pushpa Joseph

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“It’s impossible! It’s useless! It’s a Herculean task!” These were the repeated sentiments expressed by teachers, parents, and Abhinav’s classmates. The consensus was that Abhinav couldn’t change, improve, or behave differently—he was deemed a hard nut to crack. On a particular Monday, the class teachers collected Rs. ten thousand for assisting cancer patients. I placed the money on my office table with the intention of passing it on to the office staff. However, upon returning at noon, the money had mysteriously vanished. Reluctant to accuse anyone at the school, I felt a sense of shame and requested my superior to adjust and provide the missing amount. To my surprise, the following morning brought a revelation about Abhinav’s character from the students of Class IX-B. They were bubbling with excitement to share the news of Abhinav’s generous gesture. He had treated his classmates to ice cream, noodles, hot dogs, and patties without any apparent reason, showcasing a newfound quality that contradicted the earlier skepticism.

As the students excitedly recounted Abhinav’s unusual behavior, my thoughts turned to the missing amount from my office table. During the break, I decided to have a heart-to-heart talk with Abhinav. I commended him for the surprise treat he had given his friends, without any apparent reason for celebration like a birthday, good result, or a special family event. In a candid manner, Abhinav responded without hesitation, “I love my friends, but I never get the chance to enjoy with them. Even on my birthday, I have to settle for sweets like éclairs. Yesterday, I came looking for you, but you were away for supervision, and I saw the money on your table… without a second thought, I took it and used it.”

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Sr Mariella CTC

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The URU Region of the CRI encompasses Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttrakhand. The region is home to approximately 66 religious Brothers, 280 Religious Priests, and around 2,628 Women Religious.

The CRI in the URU Region has actively engaged in diverse outreach initiatives to address the needs of deserving individuals, particularly in the challenging periods of the post Covid pandemic. Motivated by the profound insights of feminist theologian Joan Chittister, who asserted that “Religious life is not about a numbers game,” the members were inspired to recognize that spiritual leadership transcends mere numerical considerations. Empowered by the vision of Jesus we embarked on a collective journey to uncover our own potential as women and men called to lead in the spirit of Jesus. Each member is seen as a leader, and the focus shifted towards contemplating actions that can be taken at both regional and local levels to cultivate leadership that is life-giving and enriching. The reflection centered on the question of how we can collectively contribute to fostering trans-formative leadership within the church and society in the contemporary context.

As a group, we engaged in introspective dialogue, posing inquiries such as “Where do we stand at present?” and “How do we perceive our Mission today?” Drawing inspiration from Vita Consecrata, we identified faithfulness to the charism as a significant challenge—one that should manifest vibrantly in each member. Recognizing ourselves as an integral part of the Church of the Lord, we devised an action plan to actualize this commitment. In the year 2023, we made strategic decisions:

• Contextualized Approach by reading the signs of the times and adapting our actions accordingly.
• Recognizing the importance of collaboration, we committed to establishing connections with non-governmental organizations, as well as both secular and religious entities.
• Acknowledging the need for revitalization, we set forth plans to breathe new life into CRI, fostering renewed energy and commitment.

Initiatives of the URU region in 2023:

In alignment with these strategic decisions for 2023, the religious of URU Region have been actively involved in a range of impactful activities, reflecting our commitment to faithfulness and service. The following initiatives demonstrate the dedication of the members to fostering positive change:

Global Solidarity and Environmental Stewardship Initiatives: At the heart of our efforts as missionaries lies a fervent commitment to fostering global solidarity and environmental stewardship. To manifest this dedication, the members participated in  peace rallies during pivotal events, such as the Russia Ukraine war and instances of violence against minority groups, including Christians. These rallies served as powerful expressions of our unwavering support for peace, unity, and human rights on a global scale. Simultaneously, the CRI members of URU region organized environmental conservation programmes through tangible actions aimed at preserving and safeguarding our planet. Through initiatives like tree plantations and cleanliness drives, we actively contributed to the ongoing struggle against environmental degradation. These endeavors underscore our belief in the urgent need for collective responsibility in the face of environmental challenges, and serve as a testament to the commitment of Religious men and women to have a positive impact on the world.

Comprehensive Social Uplift Programmes: To enhance the well-being of communities in need,  the religious sisters and brothers of URU region organized meaningful initiatives to make a relevant impact on the lives of individuals facing socioeconomic challenges:

Education Empowerment for the Underprivileged:  Recognizing the trans-formative power of education and as part of our commitment to social upliftment, we initiated various projects to provide educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged children. The programs implemented by the members over the past year (2023) include:

• Support for higher education and skill development training for students.
• Implementation of relaxation and concessions in school fees.
• Provision of free tuitions for economically challenged children and school dropouts.
• Conducting non-formal education, health, and hygiene classes specifically for scavengers.
• Organizing motivational classes to inspire students to contribute both in cash and kind to assist the less fortunate.
• Distribution of mobile phones to students to facilitate online classes and remote learning.

Healthcare Access for the poor:

Prioritizing the health and well-being of the poor, the members organized medical outreach programs. These include organizing free medical camps and providing essential treatment services to those in need and special care to the bed ridden and helpless persons in the parish.  Additionally, financial aid and medical equipment were provided to our hospitals to improve healthcare services for the poor.

Initiatives for Holistic Development:

Beyond education and healthcare, the commitment to uplifting communities involved various initiatives:

• Providing a monthly ration to eight deserving families.
• Offering regular financial assistance to five elderly individuals to meet their expenses.
• Assisting migrants in reaching their native homes.
• Implementing programs tailored for domestic helpers.
• Engaging in systematic Prison Ministry efforts.
• Conducting counseling sessions whenever needed and possible.
• Providing houses to deserving families.

Through these diverse efforts, we aim to bring about positive and lasting change, empowering individuals and communities to build a brighter and more equitable future.

Community Support Program: The members have undertaken initiatives ranging from immediate disaster relief to initiatives that foster long-term growth.

Flood Relief Operations:  During times of natural disasters, particularly floods affecting our surrounding districts, the religious brothers and sisters activated flood relief programmes to provide timely assistance and support to those adversely affected. This initiative reflects the dedication of the members to stand by the people during their times of greatest need.

Food Distribution: Understanding the critical importance of addressing hunger the members have actively engaged in food distribution initiatives. The goal is to ensure that no one goes without the basic necessity like food.

Strengthening Bonds through Family Visits: Family visits play a crucial role in the church’s mission by fostering a deeper connection with individuals within their familial context. Recognizing the importance of fostering strong community bonds, we have intensified our efforts to connect with our people through regular family visits. These initiatives provided us with an opportunity to understand and address the unique needs, challenges, and spiritual well-being of families and provide faith formation.

Cloth Banks in Schools for Inclusivity: To address the clothing needs of poor students we established cloth banks. These banks serve as a sustainable solution to clothing requirements. By ensuring that every child has access to essential clothing, we contribute to a sense of dignity and equality.

Religious Observances for Spiritual Unity: Emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth and unity, the CRI members actively engage in holy hours and adoration across all religious houses. These observances serve as a collective spiritual practice, fostering a sense of togetherness among the CRI members.

Inclusive Celebrations and Outreach: In our commitment to inclusivity, festive occasions such as Christmas and Deepawali were celebrated with marginalized communities, including prisoners. We extended our outreach by visiting families of different faiths during their festivals and distributing warm clothes to those in need, embodying the spirit of compassion and shared joy.

Counseling Services for Mental Well-being: Acknowledging the significance of mental health, we provided counseling services where required and feasible. This initiative reflects our dedication to the overall well-being of our people especially students and children, recognizing the importance of mental health especially in our troubled times.

Religious Seminars Addressing Contemporary Issues: Organizing seminars for religious members, we addressed relevant topics pertaining to our lives and the present socio-religious landscape.  Some of the topics dealt with are:

• Seminars on Constitution of India,
• Minority Rights,
• New Education Policy 2020.
• Present socio-political scenario of our country.

Creating a space for learning and dialogue, these seminars bring growth and a visionary focus among us as a religious family.

These initiatives reflect our collective commitment to living out our charism and mission in the spirit of service and community building. We remain dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve, embodying the values of faithfulness, compassion, and solidarity.  In conclusion, our heartfelt gratitude extends to the CRI national team, with special appreciation for Sr. Nirmalini AC, the President, and Sr. Elsa Muttathu PBVM, the National Secretary. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in our journey. Lastly, we acknowledge and thank God for the ongoing wonders He graciously performs through each and every one of us.

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