As we step into the sacred embrace of February, a month steeped in significance for religious communities worldwide, the pages of Magnet come alive with stories that echo the heartbeats of consecrated men and women. In a poignant message for 2nd February 2023, Pope Francis imparts a reminder of the unique role these dedicated souls play in illuminating the path of Gospel Hope for all of humanity. Hope brings a strong sense of comfort and safety, grounded in the belief in divine promises. It tells us that, no matter what challenges we face, there’s a lasting hope in the love and grace found in the Gospel. The Gospel hope isn’t just a passive idea; it has the power to change lives through faith. When consecrated people embody hope, it becomes a steady presence, giving comfort and guidance, especially in uncertain times.
This month, as we joyously celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life on the auspicious feast of the Presentation of the Lord (2nd February), Magnet transforms into a canvas where we paint the vivid tapestry of our brothers and sisters in Mission. Fr. Babu Jose, who, in the first cover story, unfolds religious life as a perpetual manifestation and sharing of an ever-new joy challenges us to shift our focus, urging the recognition of the more profound significance in feet washing—symbolic of selfless service—over the transient hand washing of Pontius Pilates. In the second cover story, Fr. Jayaseelan Savariarpitchai invites us to rekindle the soul of consecrated life. He encourages us to embrace the positive tension between high moral standards and the resilience needed to face the pressures of diligent striving. The measure of our success lies not only in our dedication to the divine but also in our unwavering commitment to the marginalized. Fr. Binny, in the third cover story, invites us into the realm of ‘Trans-formative Encounters.’ Here, the sacred dance of encountering one’s charism in the ordinary experiences of daily life becomes a beacon, illuminating the Hope of the Gospel for humanity.
Amidst these narratives, we find a gem in the vocation story of Sr. Sheeba Thomas MSI, a testament to a life journey that traverses from a remote village in Southern India to the vast expanses of Brazil. Her narrative is a powerful reflection of the commitment shared by countless religious men and women who have relinquished everything to make the love of Jesus tangible, especially for the poor and marginalized. We also hear the resounding echoes of mission and love in the words of Fr. G. Dolin, the Assistant Superior General of the Missionaries of Mary Immaculate. The congregations of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate and the Missionaries of Mary Immaculate, recognized pontifically for Mission Ad gentes, beckon us to distant lands where Christ is least known, bringing the light of His love to those dwelling in the shadows.
February, a month also dedicated to the Holy Family, gently nudges us to recognize the consecration embedded in each of our stories. In the inspiring narratives shared by Sr. Lini in the article ‘Stories of Resilience,’ people like Amin Sheik and Danappa emerge as shining examples of resilience and dedication. Similarly, Sr. Mariella’s portrayal of Ruchika in the article ‘Under the Scorching Sun’ exemplifies the unwavering commitment of consecrated individuals to making a positive impact even in challenging circumstances. Additionally, the courageous stand taken by Josef Meyr-Nusser against a dictator, as recounted by Fr. Joe Antony, underscores the profound influence that committed men and women can wield in shaping a more compassionate world. Delving deeper into the essence of consecration, it is crucial to recognize that the consecrated person awakens each day with a profound sense of gratitude, acknowledging, “Everything is a gift, all is grace.” This perspective fosters a spirit of selflessness and an unwavering commitment to service, mirroring the selfless love exemplified by the Holy Family.
As we journey towards the jubilee year designated by the Pope in 2025—a year of hope and love reborn—may this special issue of Magnet serve as an inspiring companion. Let it encourage each one of us to be bearers of hope to a world yearning for solace and love. In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our gifted writers, discerning readers, the dedicated editorial team and all at CRI, Delhi. Your collective efforts breathe life into the pages of Magnet, making it a sanctuary where stories of hope, love, and dedication resonate with the hearts of many.
Pushpa Joseph
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