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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