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Pope Francis’ papacy is notable for its dedication to reforming the Catholic Church’s financial practices. His efforts provide valuable insights into the interplay of faith, finance, and social responsibility. By examining real-life examples and scriptural references, we can uncover important lessons from Pope Francis’ financial reform initiatives.

1. Emphasizing Transparency:

Transparency involves openness, communication, and accountability, ensuring that actions and decisions are clear and accessible to all. Pope Francis echoes this sentiment, saying, “A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity.”  He has consistently advocated for transparency within the Church as a cornerstone of integrity and trust. An inspiring example of this principle in action is Father Thomas, a parish priest in rural India. Facing dwindling donations and growing suspicion about the use of church funds, Father Thomas introduced regular financial reports during Sunday services, detailing income and expenditure. This simple act not only restored trust but also encouraged greater generosity among the congregation, illustrating how transparency can foster accountability and strengthen community bonds.

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Pushpa Joseph

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Reconciliation, derived from the Latin word “reconciliatio,” means “to bring together again” or “to restore.” This powerful concept embodies the essence of healing and renewal, inviting us to mend what is broken and forge stronger and more unified bonds in all aspects of life. At its core, reconciliation begins with ourselves. It is a journey that calls us to heal our inner wounds, restore our relationships with others, and harmonize with the environment around us.

Here are five ways to embrace this trans-formative journey:

1. Embrace Forgiveness: True reconciliation starts with forgiveness. This means forgiving ourselves for our past mistakes and extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us. I recall the poignant story of two lifelong friends who fell out over a misunderstanding. Years later, one friend reached out with a heartfelt apology. The other, moved by the sincerity, chose to forgive. Their friendship was restored, stronger than ever, and they found peace in letting go of past grievances. Today, they remain inseparable, a testament to the healing power of forgiveness.
2. Cultivate Compassion: Compassion is the cornerstone of reconciliation. By seeing the world through the eyes of others and sharing in their pain and joy, we foster a sense of unity and empathy. A teacher once noticed a student struggling with academics and personal issues. By offering a listening ear and words of encouragement, the teacher helped the student find confidence and hope. This small act of kindness transformed the student’s life, illustrating how compassion can help heal and inspire.
3. Engage in Reflective Practices: Regular practices such as prayer, meditation, and self-reflection are vital for inner reconciliation. These practices help us connect with our deeper selves and the divine, providing clarity and strength to overcome internal conflicts. A young woman battling anxiety found solace in daily meditation. This practice helped her find inner peace and the strength to face her challenges with grace, demonstrating the trans-formative power of reflection in fostering inner harmony.
4. Promote Open Dialogue: Open and honest communication is essential for mending relationships and building trust. Creating spaces where people feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings can lead to greater understanding and unity. I remember reading about a small town in the South of Tamil Nadu that held a community meeting to address caste tensions. By listening to each other’s stories and perspectives, residents began to bridge divides and work towards a more inclusive and understanding community. This example shows the profound impact of dialogue on reconciliation.
5. Commit to Stewardship: Our relationship with the environment is a crucial part of reconciliation. By adopting sustainable practices and participating in community efforts to preserve and restore nature, we honour the inter-connectedness of all life. A local school initiated a tree-planting project, engaging students and residents in restoring a nearby park. This act of stewardship not only beautified the area but also strengthened community bonds and fostered a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

As we reflect on these facets of reconciliation, it is fitting to remember that July is the month dedicated to the Precious Blood of Jesus. This devotion reminds us of the ultimate act of reconciliation – the Sacrifice of Christ, who offered His life and shed His blood out of intense love for humanity. It is a powerful symbol of love, forgiveness, and the possibility of new beginnings.

In this issue, we delve deeper into the multifaceted nature of reconciliation through our three cover stories. The first cover story by Sr. Lini addresses the social aspects of reconciliation, exploring how communities can heal and grow stronger together. The second cover story by Fr. Bini introduces a modern concept called 3D Formation, a spatial symbol that emphasizes the process of formation and accompaniment within real-life examples of living compassion, love, and relationships. It underscores the significance of education and personal growth in fostering a reconciliatory spirit. The third cover story by Fr. Binny examines environmental reconciliation, highlighting efforts to restore and preserve our natural world.

In addition to these insightful pieces, our regular writers and new contributors explore the art of living reconciliation and addressing brokenness to mend relationships. Each article offers a unique perspective on how we can embody the principle of reconciliation in our daily lives.

Gratitude stands as the most essential aspect of reconciliation. It is often said that gratitude is the shortest route to healing and to God. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we open ourselves to recognizing the good in others and in our lives, fostering a spirit of reconciliation. Gratitude allows us to see past grievances and appreciate the love, kindness, and efforts of those around us. It is through gratitude that we heal wounds, both old and new, and align ourselves more closely with the divine, embracing a path of peace and renewal.

In this spirit, we express our deepest gratitude to all who contribute to this magazine. To our talented writers, thank you for your insights, stories, and wisdom that illuminate the path of reconciliation. To our dedicated readers, your engagement and reflection give life to these pages, and your journey alongside us is invaluable.

We are also grateful to everyone who supports this publication, each playing a vital role in healing brokenness and fostering reconciliation. Thank you for being part of this trans-formative endeavour. May this issue inspire you to embark on your own journey of reconciliation, healing, and renewal.

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Pushpa Joseph, Chief Editor

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The Conference of Religious India North East (CRI North East) unites 80 congregations, including 8 Brothers, 21 priests, and 55 women’s congregations, totalling approximately 4,040 women religious, 998 priests, and 52 brothers. Dedicated to enhancing collaboration among religious across North East dioceses, CRI North East prioritizes regional pastoral needs and Church initiatives. Serving as a vital liaison to the National Conference of Religious in India (CRI), it implements regional decisions and delivers essential services to local units. This report outlines CRI North East’s key activities and achievements of the past year.

Response to the Crisis in Manipur

In response to the crisis affecting Manipur, CRI North East demonstrated proactive solidarity and support throughout various initiatives. They organized a notable peace rally in Nongpoh, Meghalaya, on June 10, 2023, drawing participation from local residents, religious communities, and high-ranking officials from the Northeast Regional CRI. This event garnered extensive media coverage, highlighting their commitment to peace and unity in the region.

Additionally, a solidarity prayer and peace rally convened on June 23, 2023, at Don Bosco School ground, Pan Bazaar, Guwahati, brought together over 500 individuals in a powerful display of inter-denominational support. Collaborating with the Assam Christian Forum, this gathering emphasized the collective call for peace in Manipur amidst challenging circumstances.

Further addressing the situation, a closed-door discussion held on July 13, 2023, at the Peace Centre, Ambari, Guwahati, engaged bishops, provincials, social analysts, and legal representatives. The focus was on strategizing proactive measures to prevent future communal tensions not only in Manipur but also across the Northeast region.

Moreover, recognizing the need for psychological support, CRI North East, in partnership with the Conference of Catholic Psychologists of India, conducted a trauma counselling training program from July 24 to 27, 2023, at St. Paul’s Retreat Centre, Imphal. Aimed at Christian village leaders, this initiative aimed to equip them with skills to assist those affected by trauma.

In a compassionate outreach, the Regional Secretary of Northeast CRI, accompanied by four counsellors, visited displaced people from Manipur in Guwahati. The team included Bro. Varghese Mandapathil SG, Sr. Mary Thadavanal MSMHC, Fr. Joe Mariados, Sr. Elsy Mathew MSMHC, and Fr. Tom Mangathuthazhe, Secretary of NEIRBC Commission on Ecumenism. They provided counseling sessions and distributed essential relief materials, reaffirming their commitment to alleviating suffering and embodying solidarity with the affected people of Manipur.

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL ACCOMPANIMENT SEMINAR:

From July 28 to 30, 2023, a Psycho-Spiritual Accompaniment Seminar was held at CDI, Bullarpar, Guwahati, led by Joseph Paarakad, Director of Sadhana Institute, Lonavala. Organized by Northeast Regional CRI, the seminar benefited 36 men and women from the Northeast. The seminar focused on the importance of addressing personal wounds and healing oneself to become a better individual. It included various activities and workshops, keeping participants engaged and enthusiastic. Both the animator and participants felt that the two days were too short for deep self-discovery and learning.

42nd NORTHEAST REGIONAL C.R.I. ASSEMBLY 2023

The 42nd Northeast Regional C.R.I. Assembly in 2023 convened at the North East Social Forum from September 6 to 8, drawing 78 participants including women and men religious, Major Superiors or their delegates, and Presidents and Secretaries of Local CRI units.

Key sessions featured Sr. Nirmalini AC addressing the theme “Synodality, a Way Forward,” emphasizing unity, reflection, and freedom of expression in the synodal journey. She highlighted the need for positivity, forming a national think tank, and aligning with Jesus’s Gospel message of unity. Sr. Nirmalini commended the NE Regional CRI for its support in Manipur and challenged members to enhance relevance and responsibility.

Bro. Varghese Theckanath discussed “Our Call and Context – The Way Forward,” exploring leadership challenges within the Church amidst contemporary issues like the ongoing synod and upcoming jubilees. He urged religious to prepare for the 2024 General Elections and emphasized the trans-formative impact religious can have on society.

The assembly also featured activity reports from 15 CRI local units, showcasing their mission efforts, particularly in conflict-torn Manipur. These included protests, peace rallies, prayer services, and humanitarian relief efforts in collaboration with local communities.

A significant draft on “Mutual Relations” between NEIRBC and NERCRI was presented by Bro. Varghese Mandapathil and approved after discussions. It was forwarded to the Northeast India Bishop’s Council for further consideration.

Sr. Rosina SABS shared a poignant testimony of her experiences during the violence between Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur, highlighting moments of divine protection and intervention for herself and her sisters. Her testimony underscored the human impact of regional conflicts and the role of faith in navigating such challenges.

NEURO LINGUISTIC PROGRAM (NLP):

Tony D’Souza, Director of Premanjali Family Counselling and Training Center in Vasai, Maharashtra, conducted a Neuro Linguistic Program. As a professional psychologist and spiritual guide, he helps people achieve emotional well-being and spiritual awakening. The program provided a safe, respectful, and private platform for 32 participants from different congregations in the Northeast to discuss personal concerns. Participants found the program enriching and useful for guiding young candidates and formees.

LEGAL AWARENESS PROGRAMME:

On October 21, 2023, the North East Regional CRI, in collaboration with the Assam Christian Forum, organized a legal awareness and interaction programme with Supreme Court Lawyer Colin Gonzalves at the Inspiration Centre, Karguli. Selected members of 10 religious groups in Assam discussed the implications of recent communal issues in India and the violence in Manipur. The meeting emphasized the need to educate and prepare religious and Christians to be vigilant against efforts to polarize people in the Northeast based on religion.

THINK TANK MEETING:

On November 24, 2023, the Archbishop of Guwahati convened a ‘Think Tank’ meeting at the Bishop’s house to discuss the emerging socio-political situation in Assam and the upcoming 2024 elections. Attendees included five Bishops of Assam, the President of NE Regional CRI, selected priests, lay leaders from the five dioceses of Assam, Provincials, and representatives of the Legal Cell, Guwahati. The meeting decided to create a ‘CORE GROUP’ led by Bro. Varghese, President of NE CRI, and Mr. Allen Brooks, spokesperson of the Assam Christian Forum, to coordinate activities and formulate strategies to uphold constitutional democracy in Assam.

MINORITY RIGHTS AND LEGAL MATTERS:

In collaboration with the Assam Catholic Educational Trust, CRI conducted a seminar on ‘Minority Rights and Legal Matters’ related to the administration of educational institutions in the Northeast. Held on January 19, 2024, the seminar featured Sr. Jessy Kurian, a prominent Supreme Court advocate, as the resource person. Nearly 120 participants, including principals and religious leaders, attended the seminar.

FINANCE MANAGEMENT SEMINAR:

On February 6 and 7, 2024, CRI, in collaboration with the Legal Cell for Human Rights and Child Friendly Guwahati, organized a Financial Management and Legal Compliance Seminar for finance administrators of religious congregations and dioceses in the Northeast. CA Vital Rao from Bangalore served as the resource person, and 57 participants benefited from learning about the latest income tax rules, managing charitable societies, and other compliance requirements.

LETTER TO ALL MAJOR SUPERIORS – FEBRUARY 2024:

In response to threats from fringe groups in Assam demanding the removal of statues of Jesus and Mary from Christian educational institutions and a ban on religious attire within school premises, the North East Regional CRI issued a letter on February 21, 2024. The letter advised all Provincial Superiors in the Northeast, especially those in Assam, to take necessary precautions to safeguard their students, staff, stakeholders, and institutional property, and to remain vigilant until the general election is over.

The Conference of Religious India North East (CRI North East) has been a prophetic force for justice and peace, embodying “leaven and salt” in society. Through diverse initiatives, they have addressed regional challenges and fostered long-term harmony. Echoing Pope Francis’s call for political engagement and addressing inequalities, CRI North East has prepared for the 2024 General Elections and advocated for minority rights amid recent threats. Their work aligns with the Pope’s vision of the Church as a place of mercy and inclusion. CRI North East’s commitment to justice, peace, and solidarity continues to inspire a more just and compassionate society.

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This is the fifth article in this series, summarizing the contents of volume 5 of the Council Notebooks, which focuses on Sacred Scripture engaging in a dialogue beyond frontiers.

Sacred Scripture is the cornerstone of evangelization, guiding the Church to continuously renew and deepen her faith. As Pope Francis asserts in Evangelii Gaudium, the Word of God must be at the heart of all ecclesial activity, nurturing and strengthening Christians to bear authentic Gospel witness in daily life. Dei Verbum, with its six chapters and twenty-six paragraphs, particularly emphasizes this in Chapter VI, which focuses on Scripture. It highlights the unique nature of biblical revelation, where God reveals Himself through dialogue, inviting humanity into fellowship (DV 2).

1. From Dei Verbum to Verbum Domini: The Enduring Importance of Scripture

Pope Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Exhortation Verbum Domini builds on the foundations laid by Dei Verbum in 1965. Verbum Domini summarizes insights from the Synod of Bishops on the Word of God in the life and mission of the Church, continuing and deepening the theological and pastoral teachings of the Second Vatican Council. It emphasizes the crucial role of Scripture in the life of faith.

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Sr Shalini Xavier CTC

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Do you know which country in the world is the most dangerous place for Catholic priests? The correct answer to that question is dipped in tragic irony, as it is a predominantly Catholic country. Mexico. More than 81 percent of its population are Catholics.

 In the last 15 years, more than 50 priests have been killed. Two Jesuit priests, Javier Campos Morales and Joaquin Cesar Mora Salazar, were murdered on 20 June 2022, in Cerocahui, Chihuahua, while attempting to help a man who was pursued by a criminal and so seeking refuge in their church. The murder of priests, pastoral workers, journalists and human rights activists has become part of daily life in Mexico.

In the six-year term of President Felipe Calderón from 2006 to 2012, 17 priests were killed, along with three religious. Under President Enrique Peña Nieto from 2012 to 2018, 26 priests were killed and two more disappeared and are still missing. In almost all the cases, the murders are linked to the infamous drug cartels that are involved in drug trafficking – which is an organized crime.

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Fr M.A. Joe Antony, SJ

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The Practicing Mind:  Developing Focus and Discipline in Your Life (2012)

Thomas M. Sterner

In this book Thomas M. Sterner argues that self-discipline is the key to success and happiness. He emphasizes that success comes from awareness, patience, disciplined practice, and a willingness to experiment. The author explains that our dissatisfaction often arises from unrealistic expectations and a focus on outcomes rather than the process. Comparing ourselves to others can also lead to frustration. The solution is to cultivate awareness and patience in all areas of life, resulting in greater fulfillment.

Sterner points out that humans often strive for unattainable ideals, influenced by media and marketing that depict perfect, wealthy lives. This leads to high expectations and feelings of inadequacy. Advertisements convince us that our lives are lacking without certain products, fueling this unrealistic pursuit.

Some nuggets of practical wisdom given in the book are:

1. Simplify tasks and take your time to make your goals achievable; goals are guides, not destinations. 2. When your productivity wanes, use the “Do, Observe, Correct” technique. 3. Successful entrepreneurship involves overcoming limiting beliefs, not focusing on money. 4. Zen view: when we advance in our skill level it is harder to concentrate. 5. A habit is the natural way we do something. 6. We never reach a point of feeling “done” in our performance. 7. It’s important to find time to relax. 8. Remain calm, live in the present, and practice with full awareness. 9. Self-control is true power. 10. Developing patience and discipline requires both qualities. 11. Focusing on the process brings the best results. 12. Practice involves deliberate repetition with a goal; learning does not. 13. Avoid self-judgment to conserve energy. 14. Focusing on the process brings inner peace, mastery, and confidence. 15. What we remember is timeless, experienced repeatedly.

Any Friend of God is a Friend of Mine (1996)

Patrick Madrid

In “Any Friend of God is a Friend of Mine,” Patrick Madrid offers a clear, accessible addition to Catholic apologetics. The book addresses Protestant objections to Catholic beliefs about the communion of saints, intercessory prayers, and veneration of saints, which stem from sola scriptura arguments popular since the Reformation. Madrid clarifies the Catholic position, making the book useful for Catholics facing anti-Catholic rhetoric. Madrid addresses criticisms of the “communion of saints” as unbiblical or even necromancy. He argues that Christians, united through Christ, are commanded to love and pray for one another, which justifies asking saints in heaven for their intercession. He critiques the Protestant “Me and Jesus” approach, emphasizing the enduring bond among all Christians. Drawing from the Bible and Church traditions, Madrid explains the Catholic stance through four key ideas.

1. The Church is Christ’s Body: Paul uses the image of the body (Romans) to describe Christian unity, emphasized throughout the New Testament by Christ.
2. Christ has one Body: This includes both the living on earth and those in heaven.
3. Death does not separate Christians: Christ’s victory over death maintains the bond of Christian unity, uniting Christians on earth and in heaven.
4. Christians must love and serve each other: Bound by Christ’s law of charity, this love includes intercessory prayer. The Bible does not restrict this commandment to earth, and there is biblical evidence of saints interceding for us, as shown in Revelation and the Gospels. The “One Mediator” argument is refuted by noting that if asking Christians in heaven to pray for us conflicts with Christ’s mediatorship, so would asking Christians on earth.

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There is a wise sloka in Sanskrit about how we learn. Let me give a rough translation: “Our learning is partly from our teacher, partly from our own effort, partly from our companions and partly from the passage of time.” True, isn’t it?

How educated are you?

The answer is not found in your certificates or the names of the institutions where you studied. A much better check on your level of education is how you handle life—responsibilities, relationships, challenges, let-downs.

What is the use of having a Master’s degree or a Ph. D. if I cannot relate lovingly, build up people, handle the responsibilities entrusted to me and face the ups and downs of life with confidence and serenity?

Once a colleague and friend of mine at Madras University, who used to take students for exposure camps as part of the anthropology programme, told me what he learnt from so-called illiterate people. In our villages, there are many people who know the plants and herbs around and their medical properties. They can treat various diseases by using leaves and roots and fruits. And yet, officially, they are categorized as “illiterate.” They possess much more useful knowledge than our graduates and post-graduates.

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Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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1. AI: AN EVOLVING GENIUS?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the field of computer science that focuses on creating smart machines that can learn, think, and solve problems like humans do. It’s not about creating emotional robots just yet, but about helping machines perform tasks requiring human intelligence. One key method in AI is machine learning, where systems are trained with large amounts of data to find patterns and make predictions. For instance, an AI system examining millions of images can learn to recognize objects and faces effectively.

AI has a broad range of uses and is constantly expanding. We encounter it daily, from personalized streaming recommendations to email spam filters. In healthcare, AI aids in analysing medical scans and drug discovery. Self-driving cars use AI for safer and more efficient travel. As AI evolves, it has the potential to reshape our world in ways we are only beginning to imagine, from personal assistants managing tasks to major scientific discoveries driven by data analysis. This is just the start of the AI adventure, and it’s an intriguing journey to watch. This article aims to understand what AI is and explain how AI can support peace in our world and its ethical concerns. By considering these points, we can better understand Pope Francis’s call – his message for the 57th World Day of Peace – for the creation and use of responsible AI that upholds human dignity and promotes global peace.

Talking about AI is Crucial

AI plays a crucial role in our world, making it important to understand and discuss it. (i) Rapid evolution: AI is progressing quickly. Conversations help us stay current on its abilities and limits, maximizing its potential. (ii) Shaping the Present: AI influences everyday life, from social media feeds to email spam filters. It affects fields like healthcare, transport, entertainment, and education. Open discussions help us understand its impact and make informed choices. (iii) Preparing for the Future: AI’s rapid advance could lead to major changes like self-driving cars and AI-assisted surgeries. Talking about AI today helps us prepare for these developments and plan effectively.

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Fr Arnald Mahesh SDB

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It was the end of his term as superior of the community for Fr. Nirmal.  As expected, the provincial gave him a transfer.  But Fr. Nirmal was not ready to accept it.  He felt that if he were to leave, the various projects he had initiated in the place for the development of the poor would be gradually neglected.  Besides, over the years he had established good contact with several donors who he feared might stop or at least reduce their help.  However, the provincial felt that he had to stand by the rules of the Congregation and insisted on the transfer.  Eventually, after a few rounds of dialogue, taking into consideration the concerns of Fr. Tom the provincial offered to appoint a dynamic priest qualified in social work to replace him.  And Fr. Tom, respecting the motives of the provincial and true to his own religious commitment accepted the transfer.

            People follow different styles in dealing with conflicts.  These styles affect the outcome of conflicts.  Being aware of them can be a help provided there is a willingness on our part to resolve/transform a conflict.  Kenneth Wayne Thomas and Ralph H. Kilmann have identified five different styles people use when faced with a conflict.  A conflict style is “a patterned response” that people use or the usual way in which people behave in a conflict situation.  These five styles are based on the degree of assertiveness or cooperativeness manifested by a person.  Assertiveness refers to efforts to satisfy one’s own concerns while cooperativeness denotes attempts to meet the concerns of others.   The five conflict styles are i) avoidance, ii) competition, iii) accommodation, iv) compromise, and v) collaboration.   We shall briefly describe each of these styles and their advantages and disadvantages.

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Fr Jose Kuttianimattathil, sdb

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In our Wholeness Paradigm for Religious Life, we mentioned that each of the six dimensions have their highest manifestation, that is, the most important quality that a person must practice to show that he or she is adept at that dimension. Consequently, we saw that the highest manifestation of the physical dimension is Consistency and the same for cognitive dimension is Perspective Taking. In our previous issues we had hinted that holistic religious are those who practice consistency in their personal life and perspective taking in their intellectual interactions.

Here in this issue, I present before you the highest manifestation and the most significant quality of the emotional dimension, which is Compassion. This quality is the pinnacle of all human emotions. If we were to form a pyramid with all emotions placed one top of the other, we can be sure that compassion would be at the summit. All great religious leaders and national heroes have reiterated the significance of this marvellous human quality. Dalai Lama would often affirm, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.”  Compassion is the hallmark of all great people and the defining quality of those who profess to live for others. Lao Tzu remarked, “I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.” Mother Teresa would use such effusive words as this; The fruit of love is service, which is compassion in action.” Dr. Abdul Kalam considered it to be the hallmark of all great men and women, when he said, “Great teachers emanate out of knowledge, passion and compassion.” In fact, we might add that the very purpose of human living is to show compassion to those in need.

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Fr. Dr. Joseph Jeyaraj, sdb

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