Interview

1. Tell us something about your earlier days and your family

I come from a large family of 9 children!   Our upbringing was very religious – daily mass, rosary etc.  My two elder sisters are religious, the eldest was a Carmelite at Kolkatta.  My uncle was a Jesuit priest, Fr. Hilary Miranda, cousin a Jesuit, Fr. Noel Sheth another cousin a diocesan priest, my own godmother a nun, a cousin a religious…!!  So, you see, I was surrounded by religious!!  My father was a businessman, but he was a gentle businessman deeply rooted in the faith.  These values our parents instilled in us – the value of honesty, integrity, caring and sharing.  Even though we are so many of us, we are very united and even now that we’re spread out all over, we meet at least once a month on WhatsApp!!

2. How did you experience your first call to be a Jesuit?

For sure, my vocation was nurtured and molded in and through my family.  I owe it to them.  You see, I grew up with a spiritual upbringing.  We were a eucharistic and prayer-centred family.  Vacation time was devoted to reading lives of saints.  So naturally I was inspired and right from my school days I felt the Lord calling me, but I brushed it aside thinking it’s a passing phase.  However, it kept lingering at the back of my mind.  While studying management, the call came again strongly.  I prayed a lot over it, consulted my spiritual director. After a great deal of discernment, I made the decision to say yes to the Lord.  I have not looked back since then.

3. You studied law but worked on non-formal education for the marginalized for many years. How do you explain the shift?

During my regency I was in Ambatha, a very remote village, 100 kms from Nashik.  I witnessed first- hand, the difficulties people faced in obtaining their rights.  It was there that I felt the urge to study law so that I could take up issues concerning the poor and the marginalized.  At the same time, I was also appalled by the number of children out of school and roaming the jungles.  I made a quick resolution that as a Jesuit I would devote my energies to educate the poorest of the poor.

4. You are founder director of an NGO, Reach Education Action Programme (REAP). What was your motivation in starting it?

As I said, the number of children out of school made a deep impact on me. I decided to do something about it.  The idea of REAP slowly began to take shape.  At first, I called it ‘Rural Education Assistance Programme’ with the idea of assisting tribal children in their education.  I was still in theology and continued this till ordination.  After ordination I was appointed treasurer of the province.  I realized now that I would be in the city for sometime and decided to expand the education network to cover children in the streets and slums.  To my amazement, the idea began to be accepted.  After my term as treasurer, I launched full time into non-formal education work.  Thus, REAP was born of a need to combat illiteracy and ensure every child would be in school and not working.

5. Describe how you went about growing and nurturing it.

With the growing outreach in Mumbai slums, I changed the nomenclature to ‘Reach Education Action Programme’ which is like a mission statement – reaching education to bring about action for social change.  REAP was meant to be a literacy movement (not a project) reaching to the poorest in their situations where formal education couldn’t reach.  Our motto was, where the poor are, there we must be.  The poor are everywhere and we got dragged to cover the length and breadth of Mumbai city and surrounding rural areas up to Khardi.  We soon began to be called ‘a footpath university’ and I was the vice-chancellor!!

6. Describe the successes of the programme and its present reach.

The major reason for REAP’s success was its breadth of vision, deep thrust, commitment and passion.  It was a movement for change.  We left no stone unturned to cover every marginalized child, whether rag-picker or tribal child.  Soon we were covering about 10,000 children through a network of about 450 non formal literacy centres.  With the growth of literacy centres, we realized we needed teachers.  We decided to start our own teacher training centres where we trained our grassroot teachers through a six-month training programme.  Within two years we opened 3 teacher training centres to cater to the large number of trainees.  It was a tremendous joy to see simple girls from the village transformed into confident teachers.  We did not give them readymade teaching aids; they made their own out of waste materials thus boosting their creativity.  Our teachers were imbued not only with skills to ‘teach’ but also with the passion to mould lives. This is the real reason for the success of our non-formal literacy programme.

7. In 2005, REAP was awarded a 1-million-dollar award from the Opus Foundation, USA. in recognition of the work your NGO did over the years. How did this international award give a boost to your organization?

The one-million-dollar Opus Award came as a shot in the arm.  It was the most beautiful day of my life, an emotional one too.  Initially many pooh-poohed my work and thought it would collapse.  I must confess, many times I too struggled to keep it afloat.  In a formal school, children will come to school irrespective of the weather.  In a non-formal, the weather, demolitions, poverty affect the functioning of the school.  In the daily struggle for survival, schooling is the last thing on the parent’s mind.  Where the next meal will come from is more important than going to school.  So, the Opus award was a tremendous recognition of the struggle, hard work, perseverance and commitment of our work.  This had a great impact on our work.  It got wider recognition and mileage.  Funding was never an issue.

8. You were also conferred an Honorary Doctorate from Marquette University, USA for your immense contribution in reaching education to the most marginalized and neglected children. Would you share some thoughts on what this meant to you and your efforts in the field.

The honorary doctorate was like a double whammy!!  Yes, I must admit, it was like a personal recognition of my hard work.  I will never forget that day.  I never in my wildest dreams imagined that this kind of NFE work would be so recognized and awarded.  It gave me an added boost to carry on this work with greater thrust.  More than me, for my staff who shared my vision and passion and who saw both the award and the doctorate as a stamp of approval of what we set out to do, to educate every marginalized child.  They were very proud of it and it gave them also a tremendous sense of mission and purpose.  They proudly addressed me as ‘Dr. Miranda’ in formal programmes!!

9. Tell us something about the creative and innovative methods you used for your programme and who benefited from it.

The beneficiaries were always the marginalized out-of-school children on the street, in slums and rural areas.  We never compromised on this group.  We had their faces before us while drawing up our programmes.  We tried to be always innovative and creative.  In fact in non-formal education one has to be creative or else the children would drop out of school.  In the initial years, the focus was NFE (non-formal education) and leap-frogging them to formal schools through the NIOS (Open School system).  After the advent of the RTE Act, which mandated every child should be in school, we changed our strategies to ensure the children stayed in school through quality education support.  The NFE classes became Supportive classes to ensure that the children learn well and do not drop out.  The teacher training programmes now focused on formal syllabus.  To prevent tribal girls from dropping out of school and next thing resulting in early marriages, we decided to start a boarding for them.  This was an instant hit as it opened new vistas for them to dream of life beyond early marriages.  Many of these girls went on to become nurses and teachers.  Dreams began to become a reality.  It is a well-known adage, ‘you educate a woman; you educate a family’.  To ensure this, we began a series of adult literacy programmes for women along with self-help groups (SHG’s), to empower women to become decision makers and change agents in their family and community.

10. Is there anything you would like to add?

Non formal education caters to the poorest of the poor and must be supported as much as the formal schools. We all must make an option for the poor and I appeal to all those involved in non-formal work, do not give up, think big, do big.

 Interviewed by Ms Janina Gomes

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

In this issue of Magnet, we are privileged to present an inspiring conversation with Fr. Gilbert De Lima, a distinguished theologian and the Rector of St. Pius X College, Mumbai. Raised in a devout Catholic family in Dadar, Mumbai, Fr. Gilbert’s journey from his early involvement in the Church to his theological studies in Rome reflects a life deeply rooted in faith and service. His contributions to priestly formation, both as a teacher and leader, and his engagement with Small Christian Communities highlight his enduring commitment to the mission of the Church. We explore his experiences, achievements, and vision for the future, offering readers a glimpse into the life of a dedicated servant-leader.

1. Tell us something about your early years and your family

My parents were coincidentally Francis and Claire, who hailed originally from the same village, Carona, Goa. We were four children, three sons and the youngest was a girl, Ruth. A Priest from our Parish of St Paul, Dadar would humorously say: “Thank God for Ruth or the three of you would be ruth-less!” I think he was right!! I was the eldest child in the family. My dad retired as the chief cashier of Voltas Ltd after having served them for 36 years in the year I was ordained. My mum was a qualified teacher and taught occasionally. We were brought up in a very catholic atmosphere at home and as children were enrolled in the Altar Server’s society of the Parish. While I was studying for the B.Com at Podar College, Matunga, I was also an active member of the Legion of Mary unit in our Parish. My brother, immediately after me, also was ordained a Priest for the archdiocese of Bombay.

2. How did you first experience the call to become a priest?

I owe my call to the priesthood to my Parents who brought us up in a religious atmosphere at home. We participated in the Eucharist daily and often prayed the Rosary as a family. We were also brought up to respect Priests and Religious. Also, as a Legionary, I would visit the sick in the hospitals and the poor and marginalized on weekends regularly. While I did fairly well in College and felt drawn to a career as a Chartered Accountant, or even felt a desire to migrate to Australia, since my God-father invited me to pursue life `Down Under’, I sensed personally the call from the Lord who became `real to me’ and, like Matthew, the tax collector, called me to follow him. My mum’s older brother,  the late Bp Ferdinand Fonseca, was also an exemplary priest and at that time the Rector of St Pius College, the Archdiocesan Seminary. His example inspired and encouraged me as well to respond to the Lord’s call.

3. You obtained a Doctorate in Theology from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome with a Summa cum Laude. Tell us how this distinction helped you in your ministry of teaching students in St. Pius, the Archdiocesan seminary in Mumbai.

I felt blessed to be given the opportunity to do my studies in the Pontifical Urban University, Rome. I pursued my licentiate and then the doctorate in Systematic Theology. My doctoral thesis was entitled: `The Local Church and Basic Christian Communities in the Service of the Kingdom of God’. Consequently, with the Lucan perspective I sought to demonstrate first, how the Early Church strove to realize the Kingdom of God. In the second part, I presented this reality taking shape with the perspective of the FABC documents, since right from the first Plenary Assembly of 1974, these documents have consistently spoken of a building up the local Church as realizing the Kingdom of God through a three-fold dialogue, with the three significant features of the Asian context, viz. cultures, religions and the poor. In the third part, I presented the Basic Christian Community, which is a microcosm of the local Church, as the concrete instrument that can make this a reality! My thesis helped me teach some of the courses in the seminary. I was also involved in facilitating the formation of BCCs (SCCs) in different parishes in Mumbai. I have also been a Guide and an external Reader at some doctoral defenses at the Jnana Deepa, Pune on the topic of Small Christian Communities. I have had the opportunity to organize a workshop during the past three years on the `Theology and Practice of SCCs’ for the Deacons studying at the Jnana Deepa, Pune too.

4. You were Dean of Studies at St. Pius from 2006-2011. You updated the courses at the seminary as Dean. Explain what that involved.

It was a major challenge to rework the entire academic programme. We revised the entire academic programme since we were now affiliated to the St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore and so had to include courses in Greek and Latin as also courses in keeping with the Ratio Studiorum of the Universal Church documents. This implied getting on board as many as 50 visiting professors from all over the country, as well as working out a specific syllabus for students who joined us midstream so that they could be also accommodated into our prorgramme of formation. The format for organizing the Comprehensive Exams also changed and was more `comprehensive’ in its assessment of the student.

You were also Chairperson of the Conference of Diocesan Priests of the Archdiocese of Mumbai from 2009-2011. Did you have a lot of interaction with Diocesan Priests in Mumbai in that capacity and how did that help?

I was surprised when I was elected by the Diocesan Priests to be the Chairperson of the Conference of Diocesan Priests of the Archdiocese of Mumbai from 2009-2011. We had an extremely good Committee that worked towards organizing `Live-ins’ for the priests as per their year of Ordination with a very good resource person Keith D’Souza who was a Management Consultant and Senior Professor of Management Studies at Bhavan’s College, Mumbai. These live-ins served as a means for ongoing formation in the field of the life and ministry of the priest, and provided an opportunity for greater bonding as well as helped bridge the gap between the senior and the junior clergy.

5. You were Vice-President of the International Diaconate Centre, Rottenburg, Stuttgart, Germany for some time. How did that exposure strengthen your ministry?

This was yet another grace. I was to accompany Cardinal Oswald Gracias to Vienna for a Study Conference of the International Diaconate Centre. Since the Cardinal fell ill and could not participate almost at the last minute, I was invited by the Organizers to read his Paper. At the end of the Conference, the newly elected Board invited me to be a part of the Board of Delegates. Four years down the line, I was invited to stand for election to the Executive Board and to my surprise I was elected Vice-President. This experience afforded me the opportunity to interact with experts from different nationalities at close quarters and benefit from these encounters. It was Cardinal Ivan Dias, the then archbishop of Bombay who introduced the Permanent Diaconate into the archdiocese and the Church in India. He gave me the charge of preparing a three and a half year formation programme for Candidates to the Permanent Diaconate for the archdiocese and ordained the first two deacons for the archdiocese in 2006. He later appointed me as the Director of the Commission for the Permanent Diaconate. I have been working closely with those in formation as well as Permanent Deacons since the past 20 years and it has been a privilege and a learning experience for me as I see the deacons working in different ways, both in their ministry in the liturgy, but especially in their ministry to the underprivileged in different ways and settings, inviting the Church to rediscover her call to Diakonia (service)

6. You are now appointed Secretary of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Theology and Doctrine. What will be your role in the Commission?

The CCBI completes its Golden Jubilee in 2033. As part of the effort to make the Jubilee celebration meaningful, all the 16 Commissions, 6 Departments and 4 Apostolates have gone, during the past year, through a process of `Strategic Planning’. This effort has been oriented to enable each of them to spell out its Goal, Objectives and Key Performance Indicators, both long term and short term.

7. You have authored books and articles and presented papers at national and international seminars. Name and describe what you consider your most significant contributions.

My most significant theological contribution would be my doctoral thesis which was the fruit of three years of study and research. I also reworked the third part of the thesis and entitled it: `Evangelization in India through Small Christian Communities’ and got it published by St Paul’s, Bandra. This book was caught by the radar of the RSS. I have also written a number of researched articles on the theology of Raimundo Pannikar. I was blessed to be on the Editorial Board selected by the CCBI to write a text-book for Seminaries in India entitled: `May they all be one: Ecumenism in Catholic perspective’.

8. What is the legacy you will leave behind in your contributions to teaching at the seminary and theological works?

I have had the good fortune to have taught a number of courses in the field of Systematic and Fundamental Theology over the past 39 years! Some of them have been: Christology, Pneumatology, Faith and Revelation, the Theology of the Local Church, the Theology of Grace, and Ecumenism, the Theology and Practice of Interreligious Dialogue. I have always prepared printed notes on the subjects taught. Over the years I have made the effort to make the classes more interactive.

9. Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have recently been appointed by Cardinal Oswald Gracias as the Rector of St Pius X College. I assumed office on June 1, 2024. I sense the challenge and the opportunity to lead this noble Institution and the persons who are part of it to live up to our motto, viz `to be Ambassadors of Christ’ in the brave new world and India we are living in!

Ms Janina Gomes

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

Fr. Richard D’Souza SJ is a Jesuit priest and scientist at the Vatican Observatory, where he blends his deep faith with his passion for astronomy. From an early age, Richard was fascinated by the universe, a pursuit he continued alongside his vocation to the priesthood, despite personal losses. While he was in his priestly formation period, his only brother died from cerebral malaria. His parents would have liked him to come back from the seminary but allowed him to continue his journey. The loss of his brother made him only stronger in his faith and his desire to follow the Lord. After becoming a priest in Goa in 2011, he earned a doctorate in astronomy from the Max Planck Institute in Munich, Germany, and completed his post-doctoral research at the University of Michigan, USA. Now one of twelve scientists at the Vatican Observatory, Fr. Richard is known for his humility and dedication, viewing the universe as a profound testament to God’s creation. In this interview, Sr. Sonia engages with Fr. Richard to explore his unique journey and insights.

Interviewed by Sr Soniya K Chacko DC 

Could you please introduce yourself and share your vocation story, including your family background and journey with the Society of Jesus?

I am Fr. Richard D’Souza SJ from Goa, India, and I belong to the Goa Province of the Society of Jesus. Currently, I serve as a staff astronomer at the Vatican Observatory in Castel Gandolfo, Rome, and from July of this year, I also hold the position of superior of the Jesuit community at the Observatory. My journey with the Jesuits began during my time at St. Britto High School in Mapusa, Goa, where I was introduced to their way of life and felt a deep attraction to it. After completing higher secondary school, I entered the Jesuit novitiate in Belgaum, Karnataka, in 1996. I was ordained a priest in December 2011, marking over a decade of my priesthood. Regarding my family, I come from a simple background. My parents, who are currently living in Goa, worked in Kuwait but returned as refugees after the Gulf War when I was 12. I had a brother who passed away shortly after I joined the novitiate. Despite these challenges, my parents supported my vocation, and I cherish the profound influence of my Jesuit education and upbringing.

As a child, were you fascinated by the stars and the moon? When did your interest in astronomy begin, and how do you feel about your dual role as a scientist and priest?

From a young age, I was always drawn to the sciences and engineering. Although I wasn’t initially focused specifically on astronomy, my interest deepened when I joined the Jesuits. I read extensively about their work in astronomy and the sciences, and my Jesuit superiors encouraged me to specialize in astronomy during my formation. This support greatly fuelled my passion for the field.

As a scientist-priest, I find a deep sense of fulfillment in my work. While my research is my primary focus, I also help at a local Italian parish on Sundays and celebrate the Holy Mass. I’ve always enjoyed preaching and leading Mass, and after my ordination, I began offering courses on theology and scripture for the laity. Today, I see my vocation as reaching out to the scientific community, a group that the Church sometimes finds challenging to engage with. Balancing these roles allows me to connect faith and science in meaningful ways.

When did you complete your studies as a priest and as a scientist, and why did you choose to study astrophysics in Germany despite having renowned research centres in India? How did the Max Planck Institute influence your career, and what is your current research focus?

I completed most of my priestly studies in Pune, India, finishing them in 2011. For my scientific studies, I started with a master’s degree in Physics at the University of Heidelberg, Germany, before completing my priestly formation. Afterward, I pursued a PhD in astronomy at the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics in Munich.

Choosing Germany for my astrophysics studies was partly to gain experience at an esteemed foreign institution. At the time, Indian institutions were more focused on theoretical work and radio astronomy, with less emphasis on optical astronomy. The Max Planck Society, with its premier institutes in astronomy and cosmology, provided significant exposure to international research and advanced facilities. My research at these institutes, particularly on the formation and evolution of galaxies, has been deeply enriching. I focus on understanding the history of galaxies like our Milky Way, which has been a fulfilling aspect of my scientific career.

How do you balance your call to priesthood and science, and do they complement each other? How did you come to work at the Vatican Observatory, and what does your daily routine involve? How do you feel about being part of the tradition of priest-scientists?

For me, priesthood and science are deeply intertwined. My Jesuit superiors specifically encouraged me to pursue astronomy and work at the Vatican Observatory, integrating my scientific work with my religious mission. Working at the Observatory allows me to contribute to the Church’s mission of preaching the Gospel and engaging with the scientific community. As a Catholic, I believe that exploring the universe only deepens my appreciation for God’s creation, bringing me closer to the Creator.

I was approached by the Vatican Observatory during my master’s studies, which led to my training and subsequent role here. I’ve been at the Observatory in Rome for the past three years. My daily routine involves conducting astronomical research, writing papers, and presenting findings to the scientific community. I also engage in public talks to demonstrate how science and religion can harmoniously coexist. Being part of the tradition of priest-scientists is a source of pride for me. I hope to contribute meaningfully to this esteemed group and serve both the Church and the broader scientific community with dedication and integrity.

How do you relate human existence to the vast realities of the universe through your research, and how does your work at the Vatican Observatory reflect this understanding? Are there other priest-scientists working with you, and how does your faith influence your scientific work? Also, do you have any interest in space exploration? Human existence raises fundamental questions that astronomy seeks to answer: Where do we come from? Where are we going? And are we alone in the universe?

My research focuses on the origin of the universe, galaxies, stars, and planets, which ties into these existential inquiries. Understanding the future of the universe involves studying dark energy and the accelerated expansion of the cosmos, while the search for extraterrestrial life probes whether we are alone.

At the Vatican Observatory, I am part of a community of about 13 priests and brothers who work as astronomers. Our work is deeply rooted in faith, and as the Psalmist sings, “the heavens are telling the glory of God,” I find that my research, which seeks to understand the intricacies of nature, is a way of joining in that praise. The more I discover, the more I am in awe of God’s creation. While my work involves using space-based telescopes, I don’t have any plans or need to go into space myself. My focus remains on studying the universe from here on Earth, using the tools and technology available to us.

What are your contributions as a scientist to the Church and the world?

One of my key contributions to science is understanding how galaxies grow by deciphering their merger history. Galaxies increase in size not only by forming new stars but also through mergers with smaller galaxies due to gravitational forces. Reconstructing this merger history, especially for distant galaxies like the Milky Way, is complex. My research has made significant strides in determining the mass and size of the largest galaxy that merged with a parent galaxy, advancing our understanding in this area. As a Jesuit priest and scientist, I also aim to demonstrate the harmony between science and religion. I am dedicated to highlighting the Church’s rich tradition of Catholic scientists and promoting the idea that faith and science are compatible and can work together.

What is M32p, which you discovered with Eric Bell in 2018?

In 2018, along with Eric Bell, I demonstrated that the Andromeda galaxy, our nearest galactic neighbour, had merged with a galaxy about half the size of the Milky Way. The remnant of this merged galaxy is now a smaller galaxy known as M32. We named the original galaxy, which was almost entirely consumed in the process, M32p.

Father Richard, I found 23 projects listed on the Cornell website that you have been involved in. Congratulations! Could you briefly explain these projects? Are these the only projects you’ve worked on?

Thank you! The 23 projects you found on the Cornell website represent a collection of my work published over the years. Whenever we complete a project and publish a paper, we archive it in a publicly accessible repository. Throughout my career, I have participated in several astronomical projects, most of which focus on studying the accretion history of galaxies. These are not the only projects I’ve worked on, but they highlight some key areas of my research.

How do you view the Church’s stance on faith, religion, and science, especially considering its history with figures like Galileo, and how did the Vatican Observatory come to be established?

The Church has a balanced perspective on faith and science, recognizing the value of how they can work together. Over the years, various Church documents and letters from the Holy Fathers, particularly John Paul II, have highlighted the compatibility of science and faith. However, the Church has made mistakes in the past, such as in the case of Galileo and other scientific issues like evolution, where theological concerns seemed to conflict with scientific discoveries. It’s hoped that the Church has learned from these past missteps.

Despite the Galileo controversy, the Church has always had a deep interest in the sciences. Even during Galileo’s time, many Catholic priests were astronomers and scientists who made significant contributions and even engaged in debates with Galileo. Some of Galileo’s ideas were correct, while others were not, but these discussions were part of a larger tradition of scientific inquiry within the Church.

The Vatican Observatory, as it exists today, was established in 1890, but the Church’s involvement in astronomy dates back much further. For instance, Pope Gregory XIII in the 16th century tasked Church astronomers, including Jesuit mathematician and astronomer Fr. Christopher Clavius, with reforming the calendar to fix the date of Easter. The Observatory was founded partly in response to the unification of Italy, which led to the loss of papal observatories. Throughout its history, the Church has consistently supported the study of astronomy, reflecting its commitment to exploring the natural world as a way of understanding God’s creation.

As a scientist and priest, how do you reflect on the Book of Genesis in the light of your understanding of the universe, and what message would you give to today’s youth?

The Book of Genesis is rich with theological insights about God’s creation of the universe and the relationship between humankind, God, and the world. The central message is that God created the world, and nothing within creation should be worshipped as a god. Science today supports the idea that the universe began with the Big Bang—a concept first proposed by Fr. Georges Lemaître, a Belgian Catholic priest. The Big Bang theory is deeply aligned with the belief that the universe had a beginning, which implies the existence of a Creator.

To the youth of today, I would offer two pieces of advice: First, dream big, as only by dreaming big can you achieve great things. Second, don’t settle for easy answers. Life’s most important questions require deep reflection and research. Make it your mission to seek the truth, question everything, and avoid settling for ready-made answers.

Fr. Richard’s mother, Mrs. Mary Dsouza, says only a few words about her son, but they contain a world of meaning about him: “Richie was so fascinated about the universe from his childhood. He is a very humble and fervent priest. At the time of his Ordination, we felt so elevated to heavenly joy. Our first son has gone to God and we wanted Richard to be with us, but he was very firm in his call to priesthood. Today we are happy that he does great things for the Church as a priest and for the world as a scientist.”

A dedicated member of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, Sr. Soniya currently serves as a teacher in Kothagudem, Telangana. Her commitment to education and service reflects her deep dedication to her congregation and community. She can be contacted at: soniyadc88@gmail.com

Sr Soniya K Chacko DC 

In this interview with Fr. Francis Juan Senabre, S.J., a dedicated missionary from Spain, we delve into his extraordinary journey of over seven decades in India. Born in Lorcha just before the Spanish Civil War, Fr. Juan faced early hardships but was deeply rooted in faith. His call to the Jesuit vocation led him to India, where he eagerly embraced new languages and cultures. Fr. Juan’s extensive work in various parishes and schools, his contributions during challenging times, and his unwavering commitment to the needy showcase a life devoted to faith and service. Reflecting on his time in India, he expresses gratitude and a heartfelt wish for peace and harmony in the country he considers home.

Tell us something about your earlier years and your family

My full name is Fr. Francis Juan Senabre,S.J. At home they call me Paco, in school and among friends I was known as Senabre, my mother’s surname, as a Jesuit I go as Fr. Juan, with many spelling  it as Avan, Won, etc.

I was born on 21 April 1931, just before the Spanish Civil War, in Lorcha, a small village close to Gandia, the city of St. Francis Borgia. My parents were simple, devout and very hard working. My father was a good farmer and mason. He built our house and the houses of the other three brothers. During the civil war we were under the Communists. My father and elder brother were taken to prison. They came to our house with rifles. I was five years old then. We lived in fear and were deprived of many things. The village church was demolished, so we said our prayers secretly. I still keep a vivid memory of how we prayed the rosary. I learned the litany in Latin and my father praised me. Till today I say it in Latin.

How did you first experience your call to be a Jesuit? 

After the civil war my parents, my sister and brother went to Gandia. I got admission in the Jesuit school run in the same place as of St. Francis Borgia. I served mass daily and joined the Sodality of Our Lady. One day I was playing football and I suddenly remembered I had to attend a meeting. I left the game and went running and reached on time. When I reached there I looked for a while at the statue of Our Lady, and that was the beginning of my vocation. I was very friendly with the Fathers and in contact with the Tertians who were there from different parts of Spain and abroad. They sent me to the Apostolic School in Roquetas. On the occasion of the canonization of St. John de Britto, I took part in a play. I read the lives of saints and letters from missionaries, made a retreat  in Veruela, the Jesuit Novitiate and on 15th August 1948 I joined the same novitiate.

Did you opt to come to India as a missionary or were you assigned?

I expressed my desire to be sent to India to the novice master, Fr. Victor Blajot. It was a great surprise when I was appointed. It was Pentecost Sunday, 5th.June 1949. Fr. Sayo, the Provincial came at recreation time and said: “the Holy Spirit inspired me to send brothers to Japan and India”. He confirmed that I would be sent to India. You can imagine my feelings then!

What did you do after finishing the Novitiate years?

I finished the Novitiate, learned a bit of English and sailed to India with Fr. Heras as leader and 8 others. After 18 days we landed in Bombay on11th February 1952, it was Monday, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. It was at 7 a.m in the morning, when I saw the hazy silhouette of Bombay from the ship. Fr. Heras pointed out to us the towers of St. Xavier’s College.  At V.T. station we took the local train which was not crowded and reached Andheri, Vinayalaya.  We were warmly welcomed, and served lunch consisting of rice and curry which I tasted for the first time. So, everything was new. There, I improved my English and the next year, 1953 was sent to Anand to study Gujarati.

In 1956 Gujarat was separated from Maharashtra and made into a new Province. I then remained in Mumbai and Fr. Coyne, the Provincial, told me, “you are young, study Marathi”. Once again, I had to begin with the ABC of a new language.

When were you ordained and what mission work did you do after that?

I studied Philosophy and Theology in Pune, De Nobili College, and then did two years of Regency in Parel,  Mumbai.  I taught Latin to the seminarians, and was ordained a priest on 24th March 1962, with 20 others, in St. Mary’s, Mazagon. After that I spent 3 months in Talasari, practised my Marathi, and even said mass in Marathi. I then went to Sitaghara, Hazaribag for my tertianship, finished my training for Jesuits and came to Mumbai.

My first appointment was in 1964 to St. Anne’s Church and St. Mary’s, Mazagon.  For 22 years I served there and identified myself with the people, children, youth and adults. I was Director of the Young Men and Young Ladies Sodalities; in charge, Manager of the Parochial School in Tadwadi, involved in the young workers league and youth center. I ran the Summer Holiday Camps for about 1000 children, which were very much appreciated then and are still talked about even today. Later, I was a Chaplain for students at St. Mary’s SSC School and this too has remained very much a part of my life.

You were transferred again to Holy Family church in Andheri, Mumbai. What work did you do there?

 In 1986 I was transferred to Holy Family church and school, where I did Parish and school work. With Ms Marita Ishwaran, social worker we ran  an organization called Ashankur, helping the needy with a meal a day programme. During the riots in Mumbai, I took the local Corporator around and visited homes until peace was restored.

You have been working in Bandra for some years now, and what work are you presently engaged in?

After 8 years, in1994 I came to St. Peter’s, Bandra, and have been involved in many activities both in the parish and St. Stanislaus school, celebrating the Eucharist, visiting the families in the zones and hearing regular confessions on Saturdays. Through my work, I hope to help people experience the love of God in their own lives.

I can say I am happy and very much at peace, accepted by the parish team, appreciated by all. I am grateful to God and to Our Lady, to the Society of Jesus and to everyone. I have been blessed in many ways during these 72 years in India.

In conclusion, what are your wishes for India?

I wish and pray that we all stay joyfully, in peace and harmony, so that the country may prosper. I did not get Indian citizenship but my heart is very much here, one with you all, especially the needy.

Ms Janina Gomes

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

In this interview, Mr. James Ambat shares his journey from a small village in India to founding Building Blocks, an organization transforming lives through education. Discover how his vision and dedication are bridging the gap between the rich and poor, offering hope and opportunity to countless children.

Tell us something about your earlier years.

I was born in a small community in one of the remotest parts of India. Some of my earliest memories are of walking barefoot along the dusty roads, back and forth between the family home and the village school to which my parents sent me. It was a very modest, simple school but it gave me the foundation of education and it opened my eyes to the possibilities of life beyond the village.

It was a simple world for me and my five younger brothers, and it was a happy life, even though we never had much in the way of material possessions. It was a tight-knit community, where everyone knew everyone else, and you had to behave yourselves. If you were naughty, you could be sure that someone would step in and correct you. I was very fortunate, because my parents believed in the value of education and when I left the village school, they encouraged me to continue my studies, which meant leaving the village and going to college in the city.

Ms Janina Gomes

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Positively curious and delightfully creative, Sr. Virgy SCB, who has donned different hats as an educator, formator, provincial, and general councilor, tells us in this interview how it was her love for Jesus that spurred her on.

Interviewed by Ms Janina Gomes

1. Tell us something about your earlier years, your family and your village.

I grew up in Rayappanpatty, a picturesque agricultural village nestled amidst foggy mountains in Theni District, Tamil Nadu, near the Kerala border. The village is known for its  legacy of spiritual richness, and a strong religious presence, with many residents dedicating themselves to serving Christ, which is considered prestigious among families. I studied in St. Ann’s higher secondary school, where I received good training for life. My upbringing in this spiritually rich environment, guided by loving and honest parents, has instilled in me traditional values and a strong sense of family bondedness. Among my siblings – three brothers and two sisters – all are settled happily in their lives.

2. You are highly qualified with an M.A, B.Ed and M. Phil. Were you encouraged by your parents or your Congregation to study further?

At the tender age of 16, I embarked on a trans-formative journey by joining the convent of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo. This decision shaped my entire life, and I owe immense gratitude to my congregation for moulding me into the person I am today. The years spent in the convent became more than just a part of my life – they became my home, and I developed a profound attachment to the congregation.

After my initial two years in the convent and upon professing my vows, I was sent for further studies by my superiors. This marked the beginning of a progressive educational journey that saw me successfully complete my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, followed by  B.Ed and M.Phil. I was a teacher in a Government school but after four years I was asked to resign to get into formation, Additionally, I underwent training in formators’ programs, enhancing my understanding and skills in guiding others on their spiritual and educational paths.

3. Tell us how you first experienced a call to become a religious and to join the Congregation of the Sisters of Charles Borromeo.

I was a playful and spirited child, lively and mischievous, and a free girl who defied the expectations of society that a girl should be gentle and well-behaved.  My heart yearned for something more, a life of service and compassion. Inspired by the story of St. Francis of Assisi after watching a movie about him, I harbored a deep desire to dedicate myself to helping the less fortunate. For three years, I nurtured this calling and the turning point came after encounters with the Sisters of St. Charles, who visited my home annually. Their presence and dedication resonated within me, reinforcing my resolve to join their society. After completing my schooling, I boldly embraced my decision to become a nun and committed myself to the Society of Sisters of St. Charles. Despite initial resistance and disbelief from my family, I remained steadfast in my conviction, knowing that my calling was not just a fleeting fancy but a profound calling from within. In embracing my true purpose, I found fulfillment and a meaning that went beyond any conformity, teaching me the importance of staying true to myself and my dreams.Top of Form

4. Could you share your experiences starting your professional journey as a teacher in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu?

I loved my profession as a teacher. I loved my students and they loved me in return. For me every day in the classroom was a joyous adventure filled with laughter, learning, and heartfelt connections. My students weren’t just pupils; they were my extended family, showering me with affection and treating me as a beacon of inspiration. In their eyes, I was a heroine whose guidance and encouragement propelled them to greatness.

Driven by a passion for excellence, I approached my role with unwavering dedication and a competitive spirit that aimed not for personal glory but for the collective success of my students. Whether it was competitions, projects, or academic pursuits, I tirelessly championed my class, instilling in them a sense of confidence and a thirst for achievement. Though my time in Ranipet was brief, my impact was profound, with my students still reaching out and reminiscing about the special bond they shared. I wasn’t just a teacher but a friend to all, and my years of teaching brought not only rich experiences but also a deeper understanding of how to inspire and empower young minds.

5. As the Principal of a Higher Secondary School in Chilakaluripet, Andhra Pradesh, what values were central in your interactions with the students?

The best years of my life were spent in A.P. My journey in Chilakaluripet, Andhra Pradesh was trans-formative. I started as a dedicated teacher for the 7th Standard and became a school principal. I prioritized not just academic excellence but also instilling strong values in the students. Through innovative methods, I nurtured a culture of learning and moral growth, earning deep trust and respect from parents and students alike. My approach to discipline and education was firm yet compassionate. Children were afraid of me and listened to me. Collaborating with a supportive staff, I ensured the school’s continual success. My dedication extended beyond classrooms, investing time in students’ holistic development, including sports and extracurricular activities. Former students often reach out to express their gratitude for the invaluable lessons I have imparted. Their acknowledgment of a missing piece in education today –preparation for life’s stresses—reflects the evolving challenges students face today. Very many students are doctors today and hundreds of them are abroad. Quite a few are in the IAS and IPS. I know for sure that these students will never ever forget their school “St.Charles” and what it did to them in their lives.

6. What insights and lessons did you gain from your transition from teaching to formation, including your training as a formator and your six-year tenure as a novice mistress?

One of the key reasons I was entrusted with the role of a formator could be attributed to my deep understanding of young individuals and my ability to connect with them in a friendly yet challenging manner. My willingness to stand by the young sisters, even when they make mistakes, stems from my own personal growth through failures and mistakes. These experiences have shaped my life and equipped me with wisdom and empathy. Through my time spent with the young sisters, accompanying them on their journeys, I have gained invaluable spiritual and emotional lessons. This hands-on approach has allowed me to learn and grow alongside them, fostering a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges. Being with the Young I felt energetic, young and creative. Looking back on my past, I realize that age and experience have granted me a greater perspective and a heightened ability to comprehend situations more effectively.

7. You then took on more responsibilities in the Congregation, by serving on the Provincial Council, then as Provincial of the Chennai province for 6 years, followed by 6 years in the General Council at Kalyan. What did you learn about leadership patterns in these varied jobs?

My leadership philosophy revolves around genuine care for individuals and a focus on mission-driven goals. This approach has been ingrained in me since my early days as a leader in school, where I seamlessly connected with everyone and held positions of responsibility. Transitioning into a leadership role as a religious sister, I found that my passion for leadership remained strong, albeit with a shift towards a more person and mission-oriented focus.

My leadership journey has taught me the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to the changing times. I recognize that a leader must possess a breadth of knowledge, remain open to learning new things, and stay attuned to the needs of the community. Central to my leadership style is the ability to communicate effectively, showing empathy and understanding while also maintaining firm expectations and delivering on entrusted responsibilities.

8. You accumulated a wealth of experiences in your diverse roles as sister, superior, and formator, Provincial and general councilor. How have these experiences shaped you into the simple, humble and deeply understanding person you are today?

Regardless of our role in religious life, at the core, I am a sister who has embraced the path of following Jesus’ teachings. Consistency defines my efforts as I strive to emulate His virtues unfailingly. I  believe in hard work , dedicated service, reaching out to others and offering my time, energy, and assistance to the less fortunate. Compassion is my guiding force, easily stirred by the pain and struggles of those around me. Justice and kindness are values I hold dear, knowing that acts of goodness and charitable deeds pave the way to heavenly merit. Guarding against pride and arrogance, I seek reconciliation swiftly when my emotions momentarily falter. Wherever I am I have the spirit of belonging. I find joy in making others happy and going beyond surface-level impressions to truly understand others.

9. You are very tech savvy, how did you become such an expert down the years?

“You might say I’m quite tech-savvy. Over the years, my curiosity and creativity have driven me to learn and stay updated on technology. I wouldn’t claim to be an expert, but I’ve become adept at managing technology and assisting others with it. I learned by doing, observing others, and exploring every button to understand its function on computers and mobile phones. This hands-on approach has not only helped me learn but also enabled me to support others effectively.” 

10. Is there anything you would like to add?

  I will remember all the seniors in this home, with love and gratitude.

In this Interview, Mrs. Theresa Monteiro speaks about the suffering and adversities she went through and how it helped her develop her own reflections on suffering and compassion. 

What is compassion for you?

Compassion is love and kindness shown to people in all walks of life. Franklin Roosevelt said:” Let’s remember that it takes both the white and the black keys of the piano to play the Star Spangled Banner”. If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationship- the ability of people of all kinds to live together in the same world of peace.

Compassion is loving kindness. Kindness is giving hope and happiness to those who are lonely, depressed and distraught. When I lost my husband 14 years ago, I was so shocked and suddenly very lonely. Relatives and friends took turns to spend the night with me and they also cooked my meals. I will always remember them. Blessed are those friends who gave me love and consolation. Remembering what others did for me when I was in distress ignited in me the desire to give hope to other people whom I encountered in my Legion work.

How did you practice compassion?

I was a member of the Legion of Mary- the Presidium of Our Lady of the Mount. We did 2 hours of Legion work weekly, like visiting the Old Age Clergy Home in Bandra, talking and consoling patients in the Holy Family Hospital in Bandra and visiting those in our neighbourhood who were ill and mostly bedridden. We can be loving and caring even from a distance.

When I underwent a serious surgery in Holy Family Hospital, a friend of mine sent me a Get Well Card. The card read:” Praying for God’s Healing and Blessings as you begin your treatment. May His promises offer Hope, His Strength inspire courage and His Loving Presence give you peace”.

Hope doesn’t disappoint us because God’s love has been poured into our hearts (Romans 5:5). What our Church needs today is to bring Hope and Healing to a broken and hurting world.  We don’t need empty hearted and heavy headed professionals but warm and caring humans.

How do you experience compassion where you are right now?

In the Consecrated way of Life, like the Sisters of Charles Borromeo Home for Senior Citizens where I am now staying, I am impressed with the way these nuns are trained to be bearers of the joy of the Gospel, to go to the peripheries, to listen to the cry of the poor and those in pain, to nurture peace and love, to give and to forgive, to be joyful and rejoice. Their dedication to their vocation to serve those in need is done by being kind and merciful, consoling us by their hugs and embraces and thus showing mercy and kindness. These nuns instil hope in us by standing by us, like Mother Mary who stood by the Cross when Jesus, her Son was lifted high on the Cross to die. Charity and kindness is ignited in me in this home and now I am aware of my companions here who are in need of kindness, by talking to them in a low tone, looking them straight in the eye and also touching them with my hand.

Tell us about your earlier years and how compassion was ingrained in you as a child.  

For me compassion like charity began at home. As a child I had a good life. I was the 4^th of 9 children. When I was little, I got what I asked for. My Papa was the Chief Accountant at LIC. But later as the family grew in number, all the frills and niceties of life were cut off. Mum had to carry on household chores and keep a decent table with not much money in hand. To make ends meet was extremely difficult. By the time I finished school, my Papa wanted me to study further, so he borrowed from his friends and brother and saw me through my graduation. My undergraduate years were at Sophia nun by the Religious of the Sacred Heart and my graduate years were at St. Xavier’s College run by the Jesuits.

Tell us something about your experiences at work?

As soon as I graduated, the Vice Principal of St. Xavier’s College informed me of a vacancy for a Science and Ethics teacher at St. Agnes School at Byculla run by Religious of Jesus and Mary nuns. After one year I got a job in the corporate world. I worked for a German Chemical company called BASF Ltd. After 3 years I left to get married. During my working days I did a lot by way of charity which began at Home. I paid all my Papa’s debts and the home expenses were run with my salary. There was nothing left for me. I would travel cheaply by train and wear hand-me-down clothes. My parents were immensely proud of me and the sacrifices I made. I remember my Mama’s words till today: “  Of all my daughters, you will get the best husband”.  Mama was prayerful and felt sure that God would bless me.  I am blessed. I married a good and upright man and so I have 4 good children who will care for me.

You also donated generously and practiced works of charity- tell us something about that.

Monetarily, I donate whenever funds are collected for the church and the missions. Physically compassion is ignited in me when in the Community I am sowing love. I was kind of blind to my surroundings. Now when I see people ailing, mercy and compassion are ignited in me. Awareness  of my surroundings has crept in and even though now I am not involved in giving much help, I still reach out to people – those who are in need, by being polite and tender, or through a touch or a loving word, Mother Teresa says that we feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But, the ocean would be less because of the missing drop.

 I also gave a poor boy from St. Stanislaus school lunch every day for a full year. I brought him home to my house to join my children during lunch time. To the maids who worked for me, they were kept happy because they were treated like family and their entire salary could be sent home. One of them remarked: “You are like my mother”

I end with the words of Ella Wheeler Wilcox: “God what a world, if men in  street and mart, felt that same kinship of the human heart, which makes them, in the face of fire and flood, rise to the meaning of True Brotherhood”.

Ms Janina Gomes

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

A renowned educator with a heart akin to the Good Shepherd, Sr. Christine Vas, who dedicated numerous years to shaping and mentoring students in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, has been elected as the new Superior General of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo. In this interview, she reflects on her vision and dreams for God’s people, emphasizing collaborative efforts and unwavering commitment infused with apostolic zeal in mission.

Hearty Congratulations and God’s blessings Sr. Christine upon being elected as the Superior General of our congregation!  How has your family background influenced your values and perspectives?

I come from Holy Family Church, Omzoor, Mangalore, where I attended St. Joseph’s Hr. Primary School and Nitya Sahaya Matha High School, managed by the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo. My family instilled in me deep faith and Gospel values. The parish clergy, Sisters, teachers, and extended family played vital roles in nurturing my spiritual growth. I am the first born, and my youngest sibling is also a religious of St. Charles, studying at St. Johns’ Medical College, Bangalore.

My father enriched our lives with spiritual nourishment through sharing the lives of saints, reflections from Sunday sermons, and his own encounters with God. My parents’ actions spoke volumes, instilling in us values of prayer, honesty, equality, charity, hard work, generosity, compassion, service, and availability from an early age. Our family’s unity in prayer has remained strong, and the unwavering support of my siblings and their families has been invaluable on my religious journey.

How have your educational experiences influenced your understanding of leadership and service within the congregation?

As a young religious in 1988, I was sent to Sarguja District in North India, which later became part of the new state of Chattisgarh in 2000. I spent a major part of my life in MP. My focus was on teaching children, many of whom were from the tribal community with illiterate parents. Emphasizing the importance of family in students’ lives, I prioritized family visits and parent meetings. Regular seminars, awareness programs, and input sessions were organized to educate parents on their responsibilities, health, hygiene, and grooming skills.

Motivated by the stark realities faced by tribal communities and their lack of basic necessities, I dedicated myself to their welfare through quality education and character formation. Serving and empowering them provided valuable insights into service and leadership. A leader’s democratic attitude, positive outlook, and systematic planning of congregational policies leave a lasting impact, which must be translated into action, especially for those on the peripheries. Leadership is service, and leading by example is the most effective form of teaching.

How do you envision incorporating the core values instilled during your formation into your leadership as Superior General?

Journeying down my memory lane I feel proud that the initial formation, different stages of formation and ongoing formation in the congregation was well balanced and quite challenging. The formation provided ample opportunities to be rooted in core values, to be grounded in faith, Word of God, charism, spirit of the congregation, community life, preparation for new responsibilities and missionary initiation which cemented my life as a religious. Integrating my core values into my leadership practice demanded commitment, self-discipline and courage. I am convinced that living my values authentically makes the process of animation more meaningful while unlocking higher levels of performance in community living and apostolate. I want to ground my leadership in Synodality, build up a foundation of trust by listening, participation, open communication, team spirit, discernment and decision-making. I wish to integrate all that I have learnt in the congregation over the years into the fabric of how I lead, communicate values, look at all  major decisions through the lens of gospel values, to walk the talk, maintaining integrity and growth.

How do you plan to nurture and strengthen the charism and mission of the congregation in the changing world?

The charism of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo is to incarnate the compassionate love of God for all people, especially the poor and marginalized through all our ministries. Compassion is a fundamental quality, an ingredient that defines our very human nature. Without compassion, we would be insensitive and heartless and not capable of relating to one another. We need compassionate Sisters who put the needs of others before themselves. We have elaborate strategies to live the charism in our own communities and allow it to overflow into our ministries. Living in today’s busy and hectic world, we sometimes get carried away with our own problems. Lots of efforts are made during formation and thereafter to enable the sisters to imbibe the true spirit of charism and mission. We spell out our charism, showing concern for the poor by teaching, caring for the sick, relieving spiritual, moral, mental, emotional and physical suffering. The Charism and Mission is nurtured through prayer and strengthened by our preferential option for the poor, listening to God in the outcry of the migrants, refugees, the indigenous, the women, the prisoners, the sick, the elderly the young. We need to interpret today’s challenges in the light of the charism.

You were assisting the Superior General as her first councilor for the past 6 years. How do you plan to apply the lessons learned from those experiences to effectively lead the congregation as Superior General?

Programs are planned with a clear vision, during Regional, Provincial and General chapter, on community, province and congregational level, keeping in focus the thrust of the congregation for 6 years based on the contemporary context. These have to be implemented in time, well monitored and evaluated from time to time taking into consideration the stakeholders and beneficiaries. We need to orient the sisters annually to be efficacious, build up leadership, empower younger leaders, promote good vocations, emphasize on formation in mission, make optimum use of the potentiality of the human resources, make wise use of land and infrastructure, networking and collaboration and promote SCB Lay Associates.  Listening must lead us to respond creatively to the new forms of dehumanization and poverty and to make the contribution of an eco-theological reflection for the defense of life threatened throughout the ecosystem.

What do you perceive as the greatest challenge facing the congregation currently and how do you plan to address it?

There are many challenges facing the congregation. One among them is the blurring of Value Systems. On the whole we see that the social situation in which we live, poses a greater challenge to an austere way of life that a Religious congregation demands. The avalanche of powerful media of communication with the advent of the so-called ‘information society’ has caused a profound cultural revolution. Other challenges are, the need for ongoing formation, getting involved in the formation of lay people, the challenge of fighting against poverty and misery, political interference, religious intolerance, the challenge of Inter-religious Dialogue and the challenge of decline in the quality of vocations.

We have been already addressing these challenges on different levels, based on the needs of the members. We have advocated retreats, seminars, input sessions, training and updating, networking and collaborating with likeminded people, psychological counseling, mentoring, understanding and encouraging, advocating a well-planned strategy to preserve vocations and promote new vocations by exemplary lives in our own institutions.

The Church is marching forward with the Synodal Spirit. The congregation too stressed on the Synodal journey of the congregation as ‘Sowers of Hope.’ How will you engage with and involve the sisters in decision-making processes to ensure their voices are heard and valued?

We have given due priority to the synodal spirit and it’s three pillars. We desire to make synodality a reality in our community life by cultivating a culture of listening and dialogue, embracing humility, utilizing effective communication tools and practices, fostering collaborative decision-making, promoting ongoing formation and education, building relationships beyond the community and supporting appropriate structures and processes. Integrating prayer and discernment into our communication processes, seeking constant spiritual guidance and inspiration from the Holy Spirit during all our decision-making matters in the days ahead of us. We ought to encourage open dialogue where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts without fear of judgment and to train sisters in active listening techniques to understand others genuinely.

Thank you, Sr. Christine, for sharing your inspiring life journey and your vision for the congregation. With your guidance and foresight, we anticipate continued growth in advancing the Kingdom of God.

Sr Rita Shanthi SCB

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

In this interview conducted by Ms. Janina Gomes, Sr. Ines D’Souza shares insights into her life as a missionary. Her journey is defined by simplicity, unwavering selflessness, and a steadfast commitment to providing care and compassion as a nurse and midwife.

Tell us something about your early years

I was born in Goa, on the 16^th of June 1943. I Ines, as I was named by my parents, am the 2^nd of 9 siblings. We had very religious and devoted parents. My parents after their marriage migrated to Rangoon, Burma where my father was working on his own estate even before his marriage. The Second World War (1939-45) had a deleterious effect on Burma. Being a British colony, it was targeted.   Our family lost all they had and had to return to India, as many others had done.

I was about 5 years old, when we returned to Burma, where I did my studies with the Religious of the Good Shepherd. At the age of 21, my parents brought us all back to Goa, with the intention of settling us.

How did you receive your calling to dedicate yourself to the Lord?

Somehow nothing and no one appealed to me. I also worked for sometime in a British company as a      steno typist in Bombay. When God calls, you can’t really escape. He follows you and seeks you, even though you play hide and seek,

The call is a Free Gift and to crown it all, from God Himself. He was beside me when I was making a decision, as though He was saying, “Go on, do not be afraid”. How I came to know the Sisters of the Holy Cross of Chavanod, the religious order I joined, is yet another story. Nothing happens by chance, I attribute it all to God’s grace.

On the 20^th June 1964, I joined the Religious Order at Amravati, Maharashtra. Since then I can only sing of the faithfulness of the Lord. He has been with me, inspiring and guiding me and leading me even without my knowledge.

Looking back, how do you see religious life as a special calling?

Religious life, like all other walks of life is not a bed of roses. There are challenges and ups and downs. But, remember, every dark cloud has a silver lining. Treasure your prayer life and be faithful to it. God who is faithful will never let you down. That’s my experience. I talk to Him continuously as I walk along my path and at work.  A biblical prayer says: “God is my refuge and stronghold” God has done that for you and me. Gratitude and Love must be our return gift to Him.

Tell us something about your mission work in the Cameroons, where you spent 15 years.

By profession, I am a nurse, midwife too. I was asked to go to the Cameroons in Africa, where I worked in the hinterland, a type of jungle. That was a challenge. You had to be a nurse, doctor, surgeon, mother, sometimes a police man, a guardian and combine many roles in one. It taught me so much to rely on the Lord. It was 365 days of work round the year and one had to be available at any time of the day or night. I sought the Lord at all times and with his help, in this healing ministry, gave Him to others through my  very being, living like them and praying with them. I especially remember the young babies responding to me and coming to me with open arms because they had heard my voice, as I had talked to them when they were still in their mother’s wombs.

I could have carried on, but unfortunately I contracted falciparum malaria and became immune to all medication (allopathy and even herbal medicines) and hence had to return to India. Here I was in a Hospice for patients of terminal disease. I learnt a lot from the helpers at the Hospice to be patient and kind and caring. For me it was a witness while being a witness too.

Tell us about your work in France, looking after elderly Sisters of your Congregation.

I was then again called to be in France for another 10 years to look after our 25 elderly sisters, ranging from 85 years to 104 years of age, all French sisters. The first thing I had to do was to brush up my French. That was not enough. Second, I was the first Indian sister to be with our old French sisters. Together, we had a Vision and a Mission in this Home. Placed under the Standard of the Cross: To make known the Good God and to participate in the Mystery of Jesus, Died and Risen, in his Mission in the World, for the salvation of all and for the glory of God.

My role in the Home was to prepare the sisters for their end and pray for them. I had to see to their spiritual well being, I had to help them to participate in community life and to celebrate with them liturgical feasts, congregation feasts, personal feasts and birthdays. I had also to bring joy to their lives and to remind them that we are Religious right to the end of our lives. I had to prepare them to meet the Lord when the time comes and to assist them in praying, whilst making this passage to the other side, where they would be with Jesus in the embrace of the Lord  

Looking back, as I write this, I wonder how I did it all.  It wasn’t an easy task and yet another challenge I faced, but I went along. The Lord was my helper and stronghold. God was with me, even when I did not think about it consciously. He was my faithful companion. Thank you Lord!

Tell us something about your present postings.

I am back home in India since October 2022, I was assigned to a community in Goa, where I spent a few months. I adapted myself to the place and the work, with God’s grace. In June 2023, the Provincial shifted me to Pune, to the Novitiate where I had to learn to adapt again to a community with three sisters and eight novices, where I help in House management.

The Lord has led me all these years having spent 56 years in religious life. The Power of the Spirit enlivens me and Mother Mary protects me.

Tell us something about your Congregation.

The Congregation of the Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod is an Apostolic Religious Institute, which is International and of Pontifical Right. Our vision is to make the Lord, God known and loved. Our charism is a call to participate in the Mystery of Jesus, dead and risen- in his Mission in the world for the salvation of all.

The three evangelical vows we take of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience help me to live in intimate union with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and thus be at the service of the Mission entrusted to me, with all generosity, and to do the Will of God. The vow of Poverty lived after the example of Christ frees me and makes me available for the accomplishment of the Mission. The vow of Chastity, nourished by prayer, entails a certain degree of solitude of heart, which far from being a privation, instead radiates joy. This is a gift of the Spirit to hearts which are totally surrendered to the love of the Lord. With God’s grace, for the very little I gave up, I have received in return in my life, a cup filled to the brim and overflowing. That is God’s generosity.

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

In this interview with Janina Gomes, we meet Fr. Frazer Mascarenhas SJ, a compassionate nurturer of young minds and hearts throughout his extensive tenure as an educator. His devotion to the Jesuit brotherhood serves as the cornerstone of his achievements.

1. Tell us something about your early life and formative years:

My family lived close to St. Xavier’s High School and so my early religious participation was at the School Chapel where I served as a regular altar-boy. My parents were devout Catholics and their faith was evident in the choices they made, especially that of my Dad seeking employment in England and later in Calcutta, in order to give me and my 4 brothers, a good standard of living and a good education, making the sacrifice of living alone away from us for some years. The 5 of us learnt good Catholic practices which laid a foundation for our adult faith.

2. As an alumnus of St. Xavier’s High School and St. Xavier’s College, the first seeds of your vocation must have been sown and nurtured in these institutions.

My vocation to be a priest and a Jesuit, took root in School and this got confirmed in College – the Jesuits we were dealing with provided the inspiration, because of the creative ways in which they helped us students to discover ourselves and grow.

3. What made you opt for a Ph.D. in Sociology and specialize in Development Studies?

The Jesuits asked me to consider teaching at St. Xavier’s as my mission and so I was keen on reaching a level of excellence in academics which the Doctorate symbolized. I worked at the Ph.D. while teaching at St. Xavier’s and my specialization in Development Studies was due my interest in the most vulnerable section of India’s population – the Adivasis, with whom the Jesuits work extensively.

4. Aside from teaching in St. Xavier’s College, you also were Principal for 12 years. What do you feel were your major contributions to the College?

In my student days, I had felt called, as a member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, to pray for the gift of discernment and I feel this gift served me in good stead when I was chosen to head the College in 2003. It was a time of transition, as the State Government had just framed the statutes of Autonomy for Colleges in 2001 and St. Xavier’s was experiencing stagnation due to the curriculum of the University of Mumbai. After a process of discernment with faculty and alumni, St. Xavier’s became the first Autonomous College under the University of Mumbai in 2010 and implemented its own syllabi and assessment system to make sure our students reached the higher order academic skills of critical thinking and creativity. This set the College apart and only after 3 years of watching St. Xavier’s thrive under Autonomy, did other colleges follow suit. I also tried to introduce the College to social responsibility and involvement in the critical debates of the time, which, of course, is always a risk.

5. In 2006, you served in the Working Group for Undergraduate Education of the National Knowledge Commission and in 2011, on the Steering Committee of the Planning Commission for Higher and Technical Education in the 12^th Tell us something about your experiences working in these bodies.

St. Xavier’s College had such a high reputation in India, that the Government felt the need to involve the Principal of St. Xavier’s in deliberations about the future of Higher Education. My experience with the National Knowledge Commission was extremely satisfying, as the Working Group held many in-depth discussions in Delhi and the recommendations that were made were quite revolutionary. Unfortunately, not much of that was actually implemented due to political changes. The Steering Committee for Higher Education in the 12^th Plan was not as stimulating, though some suggestions we made were accepted in the Report. Both these groups gave me the privilege of participating in directing higher education in India at the highest level.

6. Under your leadership, St. Xavier’s became the first Autonomous College of the University of Mumbai in 2010 and was declared by the UGC as a College of Excellence in 2015. How did you achieve these?

Autonomy was achieved with the participation of all stakeholders: Jesuit management, Faculty, Alumni and Government officials – it was recognized that the affiliation system could not continue if quality education had to be achieved. Our Faculty worked hard at constructing a good academic system for St. Xavier’s – through visits to Autonomous Colleges in Chennai and Bangalore, and to Universities abroad sponsored by the College and through hours of discussion and deliberation. The amount of creative effort that went into the making of our Autonomous systems was acknowledged by the UGC and St. Xavier’s was in the first batch of colleges to be given this award of Excellence.

7. For the last seven years you were the Manager of St. Stanislaus High School and St. Stanislaus International School. How do these schools compare with the many private schools mushrooming? You were also Parish priest of St. Peter’s Church. In what way did you make it a thriving, relevant and leading parish in Mumbai?

After my retirement from St. Xavier’s, I was given a promotion – to be the Manager of the Kindergarten, the Primary and Secondary School! With the then Principal, Ms. Anna Correa and her faculty, I worked to establish the St. Stanislaus Certificate Program – SSCP, which combines the activity-based critical-thinking pedagogy for academics, with the other aspects of Jesuit education: social consciousness, personal development and spiritual growth. We were assisted by Prof. Ms. Vivien Amonkar, who had led the development of our academic systems at St. Xavier’s College under Autonomy. Last year we were even able to add a component of Coding (through Python) for all our 7^thand 8^thstandard students.

We also began, in 2016, an International section at St. Stanislaus, with the Cambridge curriculum. Mr. Montwyn D’Costa, who started as Dean of Academics and has just taken over as Principal, brought experience in the radically different methodology of teaching-learning that the IGCSE needs and this has given St. Stanislaus International a head-start in quality. The Jesuit ethos continues to form our students for all-round human development with a value-based foundation.

As Parish Priest of St. Peter’s, I led the team of Jesuits and Lay People of the Parish Pastoral Council in strengthening the characteristics of a Jesuit Parish which include: Ignatian Spirituality, Solidarity with the Poor, Partnership with people of other faiths and building bridges with Young People. This took much effort, it sometimes brewed controversy but led to many good initiatives. The Free Dinner Programme for the last 6 years for about 80 people in the Bandra area, the inter-religious celebration of festivals including the Dandiya and the Eid Milan, the Ignatian discourses and guided Retreats in daily life and the enlivening of the Youth group in the Parish – all led to much activity. An addition was the Care for Creation group which has been in the forefront of building awareness about what parishioners can do for the ecology.

8. You were also part of a committee to prepare a Handbook for Minority Education in Maharashtra, which was released in August 2023. Was this a church initiative?

In order to solve a serious issue facing our School, through the initiative of a Parishioner, I was granted a meeting with the then Minister for School Education, who not only solved our problem with a mere phone call but also told me she would make me a part of the next education committee she formed (I had complained that no Catholic educationist was a part of any committee formed by her Government!)  I spent many hours on this Committee, travelling to Pune and working at a Handbook. This is a compilation of the rights of the Minorities and the Government Rules and Regulations that ensure them, keeping in mind the Constitutional guarantees and the rulings of the Judiciary. Having such a handbook is an advantage, as our Schools can quote from a Government issued Handbook itself, to claim their rights.

9. You did a lot for Stan Swamy in his last days. How did this accompaniment of Stan Swamy impact you?

I was privileged to accompany Fr. Stan for the month he was in Holy Family Hospital and beside the help I could afford him, the conversations we had and his peaceful demeanor impacted me deeply. Here was a man of commitment and courage and his words, “I am not a silent spectator,” have resounded throughout the world. Many others have also broken their silence!

10. You now do administrative work as the Province Development Director of the Jesuits. Tell us something about this.

I am now entrusted with Fund Raising for the Jesuits in the Bombay Province (across Maharashtra) – which means helping to develop good projects and applying for the Corporate Social Responsibility Funds of Companies. You, dear readers, can put me in contact with such CSR funding through companies you are associated with. The Jesuits do good human development among Dalits and Adivasis and other poor and the money will be put to good use! Contact me at pdobomsj@gmail.com

Fr. Frazer Mascarenhas SJ speaks

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe