Cover Story

This cover story outlines the profound and transformative journey of surrender as explored through the lives of some influential spiritual figures. The narrative bridges historical examples with contemporary relevance, offering readers a pathway to understanding and living the sacred act of surrender in today’s world. The art of surrender in the modern world represents a paradigm shift from control to acceptance, highlighting its relevance in today’s high-pressure society. It delineates a five-step process of surrender: metacognitive awareness, radical acceptance, cultivating trust, non-attachment to outcomes, and transcending ego-driven imperatives. Surrender is framed as a transformative praxis, facilitating equanimity and transcendence amidst existential complexities and quotidian stressors.

1. SURRENDERING IN A WORLD OF CONTROL

In a climate dominated by power dynamics, self-assertion, and the pursuit of control, the notion of surrender can appear counterintuitive. Yet, it is precisely within this paradox that profound spiritual truths often reside. The path of surrender is not one of defeat or resignation but of profound spiritual liberation and transformative praxis. This essay invites readers to explore the spiritual significance of surrender as a means of accessing holiness, freedom, and holistic transformation in today’s complex and often tumultuous world.

2. EXEMPLARS OF SURRENDER

 Fr. Tony Marshall OFM

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On April 8, 2024, the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith released a declaration ‘Dignitas infinita’ (Infinite Dignity), a doctrinal declaration on human dignity that was approved by Pope Francis. The declaration outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God, and condemns various contemporary violations of human dignity.

This article delves into the theological foundations of human dignity as presented in Dignitas infinita. The declaration is divided into four main parts, with the first three sections recalling fundamental principles related to human dignity, and the fourth outlining modern violations of human dignity. The introduction presents the possibility of a fourfold distinction of the concept of dignity: (a) ontological dignity, (b) moral dignity, (c) social dignity, and (d) existential dignity.

• Ontological dignity is the most significant, as it ‘belongs to the person as such simply because he or she exists and is willed, created, and loved by God’ and ‘remains valid beyond any circumstances.’
• Moral dignity pertains to how ‘people exercise their freedom.’ When people act against their conscience, they behave in a way that is ‘not dignified’ with respect to their nature as creatures who are loved by God and called to love others. When people exercise their freedom against the law of love, they can commit acts of evil against others, thereby losing their traits of humanity and dignity. This distinction highlights the difference between moral dignity, which can be ‘lost,’ and ontological dignity, which can never be annulled. Herein lies the importance of intervention, so that those who do evil may convert and repent.
• Social dignity refers to the ‘quality of a person’s living conditions.’ ‘For example, in cases of extreme poverty, where individuals do not even have what is minimally necessary to live according to their ontological dignity, it is said that those poor people are living in an undignified’ The conditions in which they are forced to live contradict their inalienable dignity.
• Existential dignity is the type of dignity implied in the ever-increasing discussion about a dignified life and one that is undignified. For example, even though some people seem to have everything in life, they may struggle to live with peace, joy, and hope. The declaration notes that situations like the presence of serious illnesses, violent family environments, pathological addictions, and other hardships may lead people to experience their life conditions as undignified, despite being aware of their inherent ontological dignity.

1. Progressive Developments on the Concept of Dignity

The first part of the declaration acknowledges the gradual development of the idea of human dignity in Christian thought. Even in classical antiquity, though not in the contemporary sense, the notion of dignity began to emerge.

• Old Testament: In the Old Testament, we see, human beings are created in the image and likeness of God, bestowing dignity upon them. In addition, in the Old Testament, God and the prophets denounce injustices and call for the protection of the rights of the poor and the vulnerable.
• New Testament: In fact, Jesus affirms the above said Old Testament attitude through His life and works as described in the New Testament. The new commandment of love that the Apostles then start spreading, guides every Christian to live according to the requirements of dignity and respect for the rights of all people, regardless of the ties of blood or religion.

Fr Dr Binny Mary Das

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The teachings of Pope Francis on human dignity provides a profound foundation for how we ought to treat one another in our religious communities. He reminds us, “Human dignity is the same for all human beings. When I trample on the dignity of another, I am trampling on my own.” This statement challenges us to reflect deeply on our interactions within our communities, asking whether our words and actions uplift or diminish the dignity of our brothers and sisters. Francis further emphasizes, “Things have a price and can be for sale, but people have a dignity that is priceless.” This notion prompts us to consider how often we might, consciously or unconsciously, place conditions on the value we assign to others. Do we value people based on their accomplishments, status, or usefulness to us, rather than seeing them as inherently worthy of respect simply because they are human beings? Pope John Paul II also spoke powerfully about this topic, stating, “Human persons are willed by God; they are imprinted with God’s image. Their dignity does not come from the work they do, but from the person they are.” This underscores that every person, regardless of their role or achievements, deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. As religious, we are called to embody this principle, recognizing the divine image in each person we encounter.

Positive Experiences in an International Community

My experiences living in an international community have reinforced my understanding of human dignity in profound ways. When I arrived in Germany in October 2022, I was greeted with warmth and acceptance by two German sisters at the airport. Despite the initial language barrier, they made every effort to ensure I felt at home, and their genuine care transcended any cultural differences. This experience taught me that dignity is not about where we come from, but about how we are treated and how we treat others. Living in this community, I never felt like an outsider—an Indian among Germans—but rather like an MSC sister living in another MSC community. This sense of belonging was further reinforced when a junior sister from Vietnam joined us the following year. She spoke neither English nor German, yet the community welcomed her with open arms. The sisters’ willingness to communicate through gestures and kindness demonstrated that true communion is possible when we prioritize human dignity over differences. This experience has shown me the power of acceptance and respect. The sisters often said, “When you feel like eating Indian food, there are Asian and Indian restaurants in Münster where you can go.” Such gestures, though simple, reflected a deep respect for my cultural background and personal needs. This reassured me that my hope in this new culture was well-founded, and it affirmed that every person, regardless of their origins, deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness. Moreover, this community’s embrace of intercultural living has taught me that every human being is unique and that their dignity must be honoured, regardless of cultural or linguistic differences. This approach not only fosters mutual respect but also enriches the community by allowing each member to contribute their unique perspectives and gifts. In this way, we learn from one another and grow together in understanding and love.

Sr Lini Sheeja MSC

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As the world observes the World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 29, we are reminded of the urgent plight of displaced individuals and the necessity for a response that safeguards their rights and dignity. Every person deserves the right to live with dignity in their homeland. Yet, wars, natural disasters, persecution, and widespread discrimination have displaced millions, stripping them of their homes, jobs, and families. Across India, people migrate in search of better opportunities, driven by circumstances often beyond their control.

A Glimpse into Odisha’s Migration Crisis

Odisha, a major source state for migration in India, exemplifies the challenges faced by displaced communities. Sundargarh district, in particular, is a significant contributor to migration, largely due to the development of mines, dams, and factories that displace people to remote areas lacking basic infrastructure. Additionally, Odisha’s vulnerability to natural disasters like cyclones and floods frequently compels communities to relocate, both within and beyond the state, in search of safer living conditions.

The Plight of Displaced Communities

In recent years, illegal land acquisitions have severely impacted indigenous communities in Odisha, with Sundargarh district being the hardest hit. In the Hemgir block of Sundargarh, 14 villages affected by mining still haven’t received their promised compensation, rehabilitation, or resettlement. Their land was taken for Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd (MCL) back in 1988, 34 years ago, yet they have yet to receive the benefits guaranteed under the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013.

SR RANJITA TIRKEY HM

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I want to share an enthralling episode involving my friend and her 4-year-old daughter, Yannah, during the Mumbai monsoon. When the windows are open, insects and moths often take temporary shelter inside their house. Like any other child, Yannah doesn’t like moths and panics when she sees one. However, she has a jar with a purpose. Whenever an insect flies or crawls into the house, she carefully captures it in the jar and covers it. Then, someone in the house must go outside and set it free, without harming it. One day, Yannah found a moth and gently placed it inside the jar. But as everyone got busy, they forgot to release it. Yannah approached her mother, pleading to let the moth out. Though her mother was trying to finish her work quickly, Yannah was worried and cried, “Mama, if you don’t let it out soon, it will die.” Her plea was so sincere that it made her mother stop her work abruptly and release the moth, still alive. Later, her mother shared that despite her fear and dislike of moths, she didn’t want them to die. Her love overtook her fear. Yannah’s actions reminded me of Rudy Francisco’s poem:

She asks me to kill the spider.
Instead, I get the most
peaceful weapons I can find.

I take a cup and a napkin.
I catch the spider, put it outside
and allow it to walk away.

If I am ever caught in the wrong place
at the wrong time, just being alive
and not bothering anyone,

I hope I am greeted
with the same kind
of mercy.

Little Yannah may not be fully aware that she is created in the ‘image and likeness of God,’ but she certainly behaved that way. She respected and provided every creature with a chance to live on this earth, even those she was uncomfortable with. She kept her dignity intact and alive. Our dignity is bestowed upon us by God. Every human being is loved and willed by God and thus possesses inviolable dignity.

FR. RICOPAR ROYAN SDB

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In this short write-up, we delve into the profound teachings and virtues emanating from the Eucharist. We consider how the tangible presence of Jesus in the Eucharist empowers us to embody love, empathy, communion, solidarity, justice, inclusivity, acceptance, and upliftment for those on society’s margins. Together, let us uncover the trans-formative power of the Eucharist and become the living aroma of bread, spreading life, love, and hope.

The Aroma of Bread. During the liturgical Solemnity of Corpus Christi on June 2^nd, 2024, Pope Francis emphasized that the Eucharist symbolizes God’s presence in the world. It serves as an invitation for the faithful to imitate Him by bringing hope to others through acts of loving service. Reflecting on our current context, he lamented the transformation of once vibrant streets – filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread – into ruins due to war, selfishness, and indifference. The Pope urgently called for restoring the fragrant essence of love, tirelessly rebuilding what hatred has destroyed.

Essential Aspects. The three core aspects of Catholic Eucharistic devotion: thanksgiving, remembrance, and divine presence. Each Mass provides an opportunity for the faithful to bring all their daily experiences to the altar. Gratitude for God’s gifts should not be squandered; forgiveness and support are essential for those who stumble. Every good deed, no matter how humble, is sacred in God’s eyes. God values small actions that allow us to appreciate the significance of the Eucharist, without requiring grand gestures.

Fr Arnald Mahesh SDB

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In this cover story, we delve into Mary’s life and the profound lessons from her Assumption. We explore how Mary’s journey from the Annunciation to the Assumption exemplifies the transformation of the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Mary: An Ordinary Woman Blessed to be Extraordinary

In the bustling town of Nazareth, nestled within the quiet corners of Galilee, lived a young woman named Mary—a figure both revered and misunderstood across cultures and centuries. Her story, recounted in the annals of Christian faith, begins not with pomp and grandeur but with the simple humility of an ordinary life.

Mary: The Outsider

In ancient Judea’s strict society, Mary faced challenges. She was from Nazareth, a town often looked down upon. When she became pregnant without being married, people judged her harshly. This brought her great pain and made her an outcast. But despite this, Mary found strength in her faith. She bravely accepted the extraordinary role given to her by God. Authors like Joan Chittister and Elizabeth Johnson talk about Mary’s bravery. They say her story challenges how power and authority are usually seen. Mary’s courage, even though she was not powerful in society’s eyes, shows us the importance of faith and standing up for what we believe in.

Think about someone who stands up for what’s right in school or at work, even if others disagree. That person might not have the most influence or popularity, but their courage to do what’s right echoes Mary’s bravery in ancient times.

Sr Lini Sheeja MSC

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India’s Independence Day on August 15th reflects a journey of ordinary acts of courage, perseverance, and unity leading to extraordinary change. Throughout India’s struggle for freedom, countless unnamed heroes—from farmers and teachers to students and workers—made significant contributions, illustrating the power of unity and perseverance in achieving monumental outcomes. In 2024, India’s elections underscored the importance of democratic values in recovering and strengthening freedom. Grassroots stories from this election highlight the “aroma” of democracy in action, with ordinary citizens advocating for their communities and driving meaningful change. These narratives not only celebrate India’s enduring spirit but also impart valuable lessons on unity, courage, and collective action in shaping a better future.

1. The Legacy of Courageous Acts: From the Sepoy Mutiny to the Quit India Movement

The celebration of Indian Independence is inseparable from the procession of memories, resonating with inspiring stories of men and women who pushed the frontiers of human endurance to the edge of possibility. India’s journey to independence was a remarkable transformation, akin to a caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a butterfly. Spanning over two centuries, the freedom struggle was a saga of relentless determination, marked by rare and irrepressible resilience. The stories of forgotten freedom fighters who contributed to India’s independence create a moving narrative, bridging the gap between well-known and unknown heroes. This sea of stories swells with rising waves and high tides each August, leaving every Indian with a patriotic euphoria.

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The world is broken, countries are fractured, families are torn apart, and individuals are left shattered. We witness violence permeating our society, and the dehumanization of individuals is all too common. Why does violence persist in our society? Why are human beings not treated with the dignity they deserve?

Throughout history, we read about ordinary people performing revolutionary and courageous acts. These individuals stood by their values, fought for the rights of the innocent, and never expected anything in return. Today, how many of us can genuinely be ourselves, take responsibility, and honour our commitments to uphold the truth, even if it means challenging the status quo?

When we stand for a cause, nothing should deter us. In whatever small way we can bring justice to an individual or society, we must find the courage to act. Courage is what empowers us to stand up and speak out. Let us not remain passive members of an audience, content with simply clapping from the sidelines. Instead, let us take our place on the podium, boldly proclaiming truth and justice. Regardless of the obstacles, truth will always prevail.

Sr Lini Sheeja MSC

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“A good priest, sister or nun must above all else be a man or woman who is formed and shaped by the Lord’s grace, … they must be people who are aware of their own limitations and willing to lead a life of prayer, and dedicated witness to the Gospel.”

– Pope Francis

This article highlights the relevance and necessity of ‘reconciliation-centered’ formation process for Catholic priests and nuns.

As we know, 3D or three dimensional, refers to the three spatial dimensions of width, height and depth. The title of the article, ‘3D formation’, refers to a new perspective of the ‘reconcilation-centered formation’ process from three dimensions. In other words, a ‘reconciliation-centered formation’ requires the width of relationship, the height of love and the depth of compassion.   

The integral aim of the formative process is to help one to configure oneself to Christ. This configuration-process happens when one tries to answer the question, ‘why reconcile with someone’?  In fact, one reconciles to relate better. What is the outcome of a deeper relationship? Efforts to relate well increases the capacity to love. Once the capacity to love increases, a person becomes a more compassionate person, because one cannot be compassionate without love, and one cannot be lovable without compassion. In short, ‘reconciliation-centered formation’ needs to highlight awareness of relationship, love and compassion. To create this awareness in the formation process through various ways is the first step of a ‘reconciliation-centered formation’ process.

Fr Binny Marydas

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