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Cabrini (2024) runtime: 145 minutes.

Director: Alejandro Gómez Monteverde

Cast: Cristiana Dell’Anna, David Morse Romana Maggiora Vergano Federico Ielapi Virginia Bocelli Rolando Villazón Giancarlo Giannini John Lithgow

This biopic celebrates the incredible life of Saint Frances Cabrini, the first Catholic saint of the USA. Born Maria Francesca Cabrini in 1850 in Lombardy, she was the youngest of thirteen children in a peasant family. Despite facing discouragement due to poor health, Francesca pursued her dream of missionary work. She founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and met Pope Leo XIII, expressing her desire to serve in China. Instead, she was directed to New York to aid Italian immigrants living in dire poverty.  Despite her own health struggles, she established hospitals and over 67 institutions to serve the needy, becoming a beacon of hope. She passed away in 1917 and was canonized in 1946.  The film vividly portrays the harsh realities faced by Italian immigrants in late 19th-century New York City and the discrimination they endured. We meet Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini, battling lung disease but unwavering in her determination to establish a missionary community. Despite societal norms barring women from such missions, Frances holds onto her childhood dream of serving in China. Rebuffed by a Cardinal in Rome, she appeals directly to the Pope, expressing her desire to aid the poor in China. Recognizing her fervor, the Pope grants her an exception, redirecting her to New York. Struggling to find housing, Frances finds herself sheltered in a brothel, facing harassment. Despite the Archbishop’s discouragement, she secures his support with a recommendation from the Pope. Immersed in a hospital establishment, her health deteriorates, yet she perseveres. Confronting the city’s sleazy underworld and bureaucratic indifference, Frances triumphs. She lived to 67, witnessing America’s recognition of her work. Her mission later expanded to the Far East, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion.

The Story of Ruth (1960): Runtime: 132 minutes

Director: Henry Koster

Cast: Elana Eden, Stuart Whitman, Tom Tryon, Peggy Wood, Viveca Lindfors, Jeff Morrow

A modern retelling of the Book of Ruth, this poignant tale delves into themes of love and family bonds. Ruth and her sister Orpha, married to brothers Mahlon and Chilion, find themselves in Moab as Judean immigrants during the time of the Judges. Ruth, initially destined for sacrifice as a priestess of the Moabite deity Chemos, is spared due to a blemish. Despite her role, she forms a bond with a sacrificial pupil named Tebah. Mahlon, an artisan, is tasked with adorning Tebah’s ritual crown, leading to debates that challenge Ruth’s faith. Horrified by the practice of child sacrifice, Ruth flees but faces punishment. Meanwhile, Naomi’s family suffers imprisonment and enslavement. Ruth helps Mahlon escape, and they marry before his death. When Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, Ruth vows to stay by her side. In Bethlehem, Boaz, a kinsman, offers assistance, setting the stage for a tale of redemption and enduring loyalty. Moab and Israel were traditional enemies. Ruth is wary of Boaz’s support because she is from Moab. Boaz sends provisions to the two widows through Tob, one of his kinsmen. However, Tob develops feelings for Ruth, causing tension. Boaz extends his hospitality to the women, impressing Ruth with his nobility. As their relationship deepens, Tob becomes Boaz’s rival, claiming Ruth as his right according to custom. Ruth faces further challenge when two Moabite men arrive to trap her, accusing her of idol worship. Boaz, secretly judging the case, witnesses Ruth’s admission of her past idolatry and exposes the men’s ignorance of Israel and its laws. With Naomi’s help, Ruth persuades Tob to renounce his claim, and Boaz marries her, setting the stage for her eventual role as the great-grandmother of King David.

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During a journey aboard the Coromandel Express from Chennai to Kolkata (when it wasn’t as overcrowded as it is nowadays), I realized that the middle-aged man sitting in front of me was reading from a Bengali New Testament. It was one of those blue-covered books with the distinctive mark of a two handled pitcher and torch so typical of the Gideons International. I mastered some courage and with my rudimentary broken Hindi, I inquired if he was a Christian, to which he answered that he was a Hindu. When he perceived my surprised reaction, he continued that from all the human gods, he loved Jesus. I was struck with awe at his honesty and faith; and I was immediately reminded of a passage from Raimon Panikkar’s book The Unknown Christ of Hinduism suggesting Jesus Christ was the meeting point of Hindus and Christians (and other religions) because He came for everyone.

And that is exactly what we Christians believe: that Jesus Christ transcends boundaries, embracing all especially the poor— be they hungry, afflicted by sickness, leprosy, AIDS, possessed by demons, locked up in prison, entangled in prostitution, caught in adultery and all those who need and yearn to hear his message. Recently, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles held a memorial service honouring the homeless who died unnoticed on the streets of the city. Indeed, a beautiful gesture from the Church authorities! Yet, what lies behind this poignant gesture is another reality: no homeless man or woman is ever permitted to enter the Cathedral, promptly they are turned away at the entrance by security guards. Even access to the bathroom facilities in the parking lot is restricted lest the homeless patronize them and dirty them. (A Brother in my community was once turned away because he was mistaken for a homeless man).

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Br Carmel Duca MC

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Yesterday evening Miss X (name changed) approached my office, alleging harassment by her employer at her workplace. The right to work with dignity is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. In the case of Union of India and Ors vs. Mudrika Singh, the Supreme Court affirmed that the right against sexual harassment is inherent in the right to life and dignity under Article 21. Additionally, in Aureliano Fernandez vs State of Goa and others, decided on May 12, 2023, the Supreme Court observed, “However salutary this enactment may be, it  will never  succeed in providing dignity  and respect that women deserve at the  workplace unless there  is strict adherence to the enforcement  regime and proactive  approach by all State and Non State  actors.”

Why does harassment take place?

Experiences demonstrate that sexual harassment takes place where there is an abuse of power, particularly in situations where individuals exert control over others especially women. The harasser   can be    any one:   a co-worker, class mate, teacher, professor, principal, priest,   spiritual guide, research guide and so on. Unfortunately, women who are victims of sex abuse in the church are reluctant to report it. Most often the authorities try to cover it up, for the fear   of   consequences.  It is said that   if the predator is a clergy member taking action against him could create   other repercussions such as   denial of Sacraments or other forms of retaliation. Consequently, the majority of such incidents go unreported, leaving the perpetrator unpunished while the victim suffers silently.

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Sr Adv Mary Scaria SCJM

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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”.

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Ms Janina Gomes

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1. Shift in Consciousness: Creating new narratives as Religious (Mt 9:17 – New wine into new wineskins)

The concept of a “shift in consciousness” can be interpreted in various ways, but generally, it refers to a fundamental change in the way individuals or societies perceive and interact with the world. It implies a transformation in how people understand and practice their faith.

Creating new narratives within a religious framework involves reinterpreting or expanding upon established beliefs, practices, and traditions. This process is driven by various factors, including cultural changes, scientific discoveries, philosophical insights, or the influence of other belief systems.

2. Resilience in adversity: Community and Solidarity (Is 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”)

Exploring how individuals and Religious Communities navigate challenges with hope as a guiding force, and how their resilience can inspire others to do the same.

3. Hope as a catalyst for change: a cultural perspective (Rom 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”)

Discussing how hope can serve as a catalyst for positive transformation at personal, societal, and global levels, and the responsibilities that come with it.

4. Relentless pursuit for relevance in our Indian context as religious. (Mt 5:13- 16 – “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”)

Investigating how hope is perceived and expressed across different cultures and societies, and the potential for cross-cultural understanding and collaboration in the face of challenges.

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May is a sacred time, a season marked by the vibrant celebration of Pentecost, where the mosaic of diversity was woven into a masterpiece of unity. It was a moment when differences ceased to divide, but instead became the threads that bound hearts together in a symphony of understanding and compassion. Pentecost, with its miracles of language and communion, echoes the divine essence of both diversity and unity, reminiscent of the sacred dance within the Trinity itself.

Pentecost holds a cherished place within my heart, its resonance echoing with the vibrant hues of divine presence and human connection. Luke, in his masterful narration, invites us into a world where every detail pulses with significance, where the very air seems charged with the electric energy of the Spirit. It is within these intricately woven accounts that we encounter the essence of Pentecost – a symphony of celebration and difference, where the presence of the Spirit infuses every moment with new life and boundless possibilities. As we delve into Luke’s evocative portrayal of Pentecost, we find ourselves entranced by a sacred interplay of diversity and unity. Within this divine choreography, fear gives way to the bravery of expression, attentive listening, and the transformative power of healing. Here, communion transcends barriers, as differences gracefully merge into the intricate weave of the human journey.  Amidst the bustling crowds and diverse tongues, we witness the transformative power of the Spirit, breathing life into ancient prophecies and igniting the flames of communal understanding and compassion. In Luke’s meticulous retelling, every word becomes a brushstroke, painting a portrait of Pentecost as a timeless celebration of the human spirit’s capacity to transcend barriers and embrace diversity with open arms.

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Pushpa Joseph

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The CRI Kannur unit in Kerala region is a lively group of dedicated individuals, both men and women religious, who have actively engaged with contemporary challenges. Through advocacy, protests, and spiritual renewal, they have responded dynamically to the needs of the community and society. Their activities range from raising awareness on pressing issues to participating in peaceful demonstrations, all while nurturing their spiritual growth through prayer and reflection. This group embodies a spirit of commitment and action, embodying their faith through service and engagement with the people around them.

The following are some of the activities of the recent past:

1. The Kannur CRI unit has shown unwavering solidarity with people, particularly farmers and the fishing community at Vizhinjam, in their struggles and challenges. Through various initiatives and actions, they have stood alongside these groups, offering support, advocacy, and resources to address their needs. Whether it is raising awareness about the issues facing farmers or advocating for fair treatment and better working conditions for the fishing community, the CRI Kannur unit has been at the forefront of championing their cause. By fostering a sense of unity and collaboration, they have worked to ensure that the voices of these marginalized groups are heard and their rights are protected. This solidarity reflects the unit’s deep commitment to social justice and their willingness to stand up for the rights and dignity of all people, especially those most vulnerable in society.

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Christians draw their faith from the Word of God, which includes both Scripture and Tradition. Tradition, as explained in Dei Verbum 7-10, is not just a thing of the past—it is alive and dynamic. Volume three of the council notebooks emphasizes this understanding of tradition as a living participation. This means that it is continuously active and guided by the Holy Spirit, ensuring that the essence of Jesus Christ’s message is kept vibrant and relevant for each generation. Tradition isn’t just about remembering; it is about actively participating in the ongoing memory of Jesus, particularly His love and compassion for the marginalized and vulnerable. It is like a living stream that carries forth the teachings and actions of Jesus, keeping them fresh and impactful for all believers, especially those in need. Dei Verbum gives emphasis to this dynamic nature of tradition.

Tradition of the Living Truth

In the second chapter of volume 3 of the council notebooks titled “Transmitting the Truth in a Living Way,” we delve into the writings of early Church figures such as Saint Irenaeus and St. Basil. Irenaeus emphasizes the continuity of Gospel preaching and faith from the Apostles to their successors, which he calls the ‘Tradition of Truth.’ This highlights the ongoing connection between the Church’s teachings and the living memory of Jesus found in the Gospels. Importantly, Irenaeus also stresses that this transmission is not just about words but also about action—it involves actively participating in the love for the poor and downtrodden. He famously said, “The glory of God is man/woman fully alive,” underlining the vibrant relationship between the Holy Scriptures and the Apostolic tradition. This dynamic understanding of tradition underscores its authentic link between Christ and His Church.

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Sr Shalini Xavier CTC

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A film that was released in the United States on 8 March ‘24, International Women’s Day, has found favour with both critics and audiences. The film quickly reached the fourth place in the U.S. box office. You may be surprised to know that the film is about a Catholic Sister and a saint. Her last name is the name of the film: Cabrini.

The biographical film is directed by Alejandro Gómez Monteverde, who is fond of making movies on religious themes to which American film critics are usually allergic. But most of them are praising this film. The film’s executive producer, Eustace Wolfington, said, “Muslims, atheists, and Christians saw the film, and they all say one thing: that they want to be like Cabrini.” The film was produced by Angel Studios, a company that also made the internationally successful series, The Chosen, about Jesus of Nazareth. Pope Francis watched some scenes from the film.

The film tells the real life story of Mother Frances Saverio Cabrini, who was born in 1850 in Lombardy, Italy. Cabrini’s original name was Maria Francesca Cabrini. When she took her religious vows in 1877, she changed her name to Frances Xavier, in tribute to the indefatigable Jesuit missionary, St. Francis Xavier.

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FR M.A. JOE ANTONY, SJ

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We have started the Year of Prayer, as an immediate preparation for the Jubilee 2025. Many local Churches have undertaken various initiatives to make this year a fruitful experience of praying and learning to pray, initiating various prayer groups, prayer movements, prayer warriors etc. to nourish and keep alive the faith of the Church. But what exactly is prayer?

There are very many definitions of prayer. Most of us, right from our childhood have been taught to pray. When we talk to our parents or our friends, we speak to them spontaneously with love, because we know who they are and how deep is our relationship with them.  Prayer is just that, a deep communion with God – we talking to God, expressing our heart to God and God revealing his heart to us. It is a two-way heart to heart loving communication. Basically, prayer is a relationship. If there is no relationship there can be no real prayer. Learning to pray is learning to develop a loving, friendly, child-like relationship with a loving, caring, merciful, compassionate and forgiving God.

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Sr. Celine D’Cunha FMA

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