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Lent is a season of conversion. Conversion is of course giving up sin and living the life of grace. But much more, it is a radical renewal of our relationship with God, with fellow human beings and with nature.

Three pillars of Lenten spirituality:

Lenten season calls for prayer, fasting and almsgiving. They are the three pillars of Lent. They not only invite us to our personal sanctification but more, to renew our relationships. Christian salvation is never mere personal holiness; rather, it has a communitarian and social dimension. This is clearly taught by the Lord in many parables, especially the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Lk 16:19-31). Here we can clearly see that there was something deficient and wrong in the relationship between the rich man and the beggar at the door. The Jewish faith was essentially a communitarian faith, and hence the rich man was obliged by his faith to share his food with the hungry. We can see this in many of the prophets (Isaiah 58:3-7). That is why Jesus tells us that at the end of our lives we shall be judged on love, that is, feeding the hungry, giving a drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, visiting the prisoners and the sick (Mt 25:35-37). Here we can clearly see the renewal of relationship among us, between the well-off and the deprived, by recognizing the face of Christ in the poor, the weak, the wounded, the weary, the last, the least, and the lost. This is summed up by the traditional Lenten practice of prayer, penance and almsgiving.

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Sch Joseph Melvyn Govias SJ

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Nowadays, stand-up comedy shows are thriving on the internet and television. It is because people love to laugh. Laughter is medicine for the physical and emotional aspects of our lives.  This Japanese proverb probably explains the significance of laughter: “Never open a shop if you are not qualified to laugh.”

Smiles and laughter are not strangers; they are one. A smile is a facial expression of happiness, while laughter is the same but with more enthusiasm. Both can be likened to thunder. When there is thunder, the first thing we experience is light, followed by sound. This process is the same in laughter; first, we see only the smile, then laughter. In other words, laughter is a continuation of a smile.

Laughter plays a significant role in friendship. There is also a saying, “Friendship begins with a smile.” I remember how I formed a friendship in the 12th grade through laughter. On the first day of class, one of my classmates shared a joke when introducing himself. I turned back, laughed, and it caught his attention. That’s how we began our friendship.

One can smile at everyone, but one can’t laugh with everyone because laughter revolves around dear ones. Often, a smile can be artificial, but laughter can never be so. Laughter builds a strong relationship with people; that’s why I am still in contact with my aforementioned friend. We still laugh until we feel like crying. So, laughter can also be defined as the expressed mode of unexpressed love.

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Sch Sudarshan, SJ

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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.

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Human commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development has become paramount worldwide.  Our interconnection with the universe emphasizes that the identity of humanity is inseparable from the broader natural world. Climate change and global warming underscore the urgent imperative to prioritize the sustainability of the universe for the continuation of humanity.

Care of the Universe: a Universal Priority and Responsibility

Consequently, sustainability and social responsibility are now central topics in discussions among governments, companies, and organizations globally. The societal role of organizations and the interconnection of economic, social, and environmental systems are increasingly recognized by society as a whole. Thus, the discourse revolves around the social and environmental responsibilities of all inhabitants of our universe.

Social and Environmental Responsibility entails the dedication of an organization towards contributing to sustainable economic development for the betterment of its own operations, local communities, and society at large. It emphasizes the incorporation of social and environmental considerations into the strategies, policies, practices, and procedures of all our endeavours.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Let’s look at it from the CSR point of view. CSR can be divided into four categories: environmental, philanthropic, ethical and economic responsibility.

1. Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility is the cornerstone of corporate social responsibility, centered on preserving the natural environment. It advocates for organizations to adopt environmentally friendly practices, aiming to improve natural resources through their operations and support for relevant causes. This commitment is a prevalent aspect of CSR, sometimes referred to as “environmental stewardship.”

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Fr Alex G SJ

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Time unfolds in two distinct dimensions: Chronos and Kairos. Chronos, like the steady ticking of a clock, measures our days in seconds and hours, focusing on the quantitative march of progress. Yet, it is Kairos that truly captures the essence of life’s beauty. Think of the moment when a child takes her/his first steps, stumbling yet determined. In that instant, time seems to stand still as parents witness the miracle of growth and independence – a true Kairos moment. Or consider the reunion of long-lost friends, whose laughter and shared stories transcend the years apart. In those moments, time loses its grip as the joy of connection fills the air – a Kairos encounter that leaves hearts full and spirits uplifted. Kairos is found in the gentle touch of a loved one’s hand during difficult times, in the shared silence between soulmates that speaks volumes, and in the embrace of nature’s beauty that stirs the depths of our being. While Chronos may drive us forward with deadlines and schedules, it is Kairos that reminds us to pause, to savour the richness of each moment, and to cherish the depth of our human experience.

March, a tribute to women’s empowerment, honours the feminine energy resonating throughout creation. In this edition, four cover stories encapsulate the timeless essence of Kairos, celebrating Grace through art, storytelling, and compassionate acts. Together, they illuminate the significance of each moment and the interconnection of human experience, emphasizing connectivity and solidarity. Through these mediums, they shape a new order of creation. Time, measured by the compassion and connections it fosters, serves as a catalyst for empowerment in our lives.  As we journey through the stories of renewal, we are reminded of our innate ability to create meaningful bonds and effect positive change in the world. Through the lens of Kairos, we come to appreciate the beauty of human connection and the potential it holds for shaping a more compassionate and inclusive society.   The regular columns also highlight the Kairotic aspect of experience as our writers delve into the profound involvement of men and women religious in the lives of people enduring hardship. Through their narratives, we witness the power of compassion and selflessness in alleviating suffering and bringing hope to those in need. These stories exemplify the essence of Kairos in their everyday actions. In their accounts, we find inspiration to embrace moments of significance and to make a positive impact in the lives of those around us.

Kairos also encompasses the incarnational aspect of time, inviting us to contemplate God’s loving presence among us. The incarnation reveals a God who shares in our joys, sorrows, hopes, and fears, bridging the gap between the divine and the human. Reflecting on the incarnation of Jesus Christ, we confront the radical implications of Kairos in our lives. It urges us to embrace each moment as pregnant with divine possibility, recognizing the sacredness of every encounter, and responding with openness to the promptings of the Spirit. This call to live intentionally, attuned to God’s grace, holds particular significance in the context of women’s awakening. The incarnational aspect of time reminds us that true power lies not in domination, but in the self-giving love exemplified by Jesus. It invites women and men to embody Christ’s loving presence, cultivating relationships characterized by mutuality, respect, and compassion. As we journey through time, may we remain mindful of the profound implications of Kairos and its incarnational reality. Let us embrace each moment as an opportunity to encounter the divine, bearing witness to the awakening power of grace.

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Pushpa Joseph

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The JHAAN region of the CRI, comprising Jharkhand and Andamans, consists of nine units: Daltonganj, Dumka, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Jamshedpur, Khunti, Port Blair, Ranchi, and Simdega. On 8^th February 2024, a one-day meeting was held at Fr. Herman Raschaert SJ Hall, Ranchi. Approximately 70 participants attended, including Major Superiors, Regional Superiors and those in-charge of zonal units.  Sr Elsa Muttathu PBVM the national secretary was present.

Purpose of the Meeting:

• Reflect on the current situations in the JHAAN region, both internal and external factors.
• Envision a coordinated response from Religious Congregations in JHAAN to address emerging challenges.
• Establish a think tank and task force with representatives from various religious Congregations to strategize and collaborate effectively.

Sr. Sujata Kujur DSA, Secretary of CRI JHAAN and Provincial of DSA Ranchi Province, warmly welcomed everyone to the meeting, stressing the importance of self-reflection and personal growth, echoing Gandhi’s famous words: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” The gathering began with a prayer led by Sr. Sabina SND and Sr. Sushma SND, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.

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Sr. Lalita Roshni Lakra, DSA

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My tryst with art dates back to my childhood. Dabbling in the school’s art room with a keen curiosity to learn anything coming my way, I aspired to pursue further studies in art history and painting at college level.  My work is symbolic in nature, inspired by the contemporary city life around me and its fast-paced nature where disparate elements seem to coexist. Age old architecture with Corinthian pillars and marble statues, a reminder of the British era of which Kolkata was once the capital, jostling for space alongside skyscrapers made of glass and steel. The architectural repertoire of the city, spanning its history in a single frame.

The other elements that populate my paintings are people and trees – people as crowds and yet with varied expressions and personalities; and trees, spanning more than a hundred years and unaffected by almost everything they have witnessed in their life span. The compositions hide within them houses, doorways, windows, foliage, leaves, trees and flowers – elements that we miss in the fast paced and crowded city life. These hidden elements are a reminder of how the city is accommodating mammoth growth, while retaining its basic spirit.

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Deepshikha Khaitan

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This excerpt from Surumi, a professional artist and alumna of Stella Maris College, Chennai, eloquently recounts her artistic journey. It unveils a path of self-discovery intertwined with the revelation of a trans-formative voice poised to impact the world. The images included are her original art works.

“How many hours did that take you to do?” This is probably the most common question I get asked when someone sees my art. People are always intrigued by the level of detail that creates each piece. It’s true. I rarely go beyond a 0.1mm thick pen, allowing me to capture even the finest details with precision. Strangely enough, I never really felt the need to keep track of the time it takes me to complete a piece. Perhaps it’s because my focus has always been on the process itself rather than the end result. I’ve never been conscious of my technique or the subject matter I choose to portray.

I have always been impulsive. I didn’t realize that is also my instinct. If something excited me, I would eagerly draw it. I didn’t overthink or analyze my choices. It was all about capturing what I felt compelled to express. I would sit down with a pen and a sheet of paper, and let the lines flow. The process was intuitive, almost like a natural extension of myself.

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Surumi Mammootty

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(In this article, Fr. Arnald Mahesh illustrates the dynamic influence of empowered women in the Church, drawing inspiration from his own mother and other living examples. Following cues from Catholic theology and the teachings of Pope Francis, he underscores the significance of ongoing debates surrounding women’s roles and their increasing emphasis within the church.)

That One Woman

One woman stands out for her extraordinary efforts in empowering not only herself but also her children, especially her daughters. She was a mother of ten children, seven of whom were girls. With unwavering support from her life partner, she dedicated herself to raising her children and ensuring that her daughters found empowerment. Education was the key tool she used to promote their growth. Despite regretting not securing a government job due to her parents’ rush to marry her off before she could finish her studies, she never confined herself to the home only. Instead, she explored various creative ways to contribute to the family income while raising her ten children. From running a small business making and selling idlis to managing a modest firewood shop (to mention a few), she involved her children in every aspect of family life.

Her journey was marked by immense challenges and struggles, yet she persevered, elevating her children to a notable social status. She embodied courage, hard work, commitment, familial bonds, friendship, love of God, and compassion for humanity, especially the poor. This woman of faith inspired three of her children to commit themselves to religious life. Her life exemplified how one can become a blessing to many by recognizing the abundant blessings of God. Among all the women I know, she stands tall as my HERoine, my beloved amma, late Mrs Josephine. Her greatest gift to me is my seven loving sisters, who continue to shape and inspire me with their lives and values. My family taught me the importance of viewing women with respect and dignity and showed me how to support and empower them whenever the opportunity arises.

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Fr Arnald Mahesh SDB

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(Cover Story Four, by Sr. Mudita, explores examples of women’s empowerment throughout history. These women emerge as pivotal agents of connectivity, solidarity, and renewal, birthing a new order of creation.)

Women have been gifted with the unique capacity to uphold the primacy of love in human life. Her very physiological structure is so designed, that it has “room for another” and an innate sensitivity to the goodness of the human being. Coined by Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic letter “Mulieris Dignitatem” in 1988, the term “feminine genius” celebrates this divine grace bestowed upon all women, regardless of whether they bear children physically or not.  Woman embodies the essence of perfect love, with the potential to birth anew. The ethereal bond she shares with “the other” resembles a divine lifeline. She epitomizes tenderness, mindful of her actions and their impact on others. Fashioned by the Creator, she embodies patience, kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, resilience, faithfulness, and unconditional giving, akin to Mother Earth. Women possess innate abilities to motivate, collaborate, and advance community interests. With strength, courage, and determination, they embrace learning, hard work, and leadership. Evolving to maintain peace and harmony, they are pacifying forces with healing touches and greater endurance. They bridge gaps between groups, fostering a broader, lasting vision for peace to flourish.

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Dr (Sr) Mudita Menona Sodder RSCJ

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