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Fr Vincent Cimatti SDB led the first Salesian expedition to Japan. He did a fantastic service as pioneer and then as Provincial in that country. Today, he is a Servant of God.

Before going to Japan as a missionary, Fr Cimatti was the rector of a well-known junior college in North Italy. The incident I am going to mention happened in that college.

On what we call “college day” or school day, with a large crowd present, one of the outgoing students had been appointed to give a speech. What he did shocked everyone. He went up, and stood on the stage and criticized the Salesians in public. There was pin-drop silence in the hall and much uneasiness. Everyone’s eyes went to Fr Cimatti, since he was the head of the institution. They wondered what he would do.

This is what Fr Cimatti did.

Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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You have certainly heard that human beings are the image of God, right? What does this mean to you?

Let me tell you how one exceptionally brilliant man interpreted this Bible teaching. When I first heard it in a philosophy class in Rome decades ago, I was impressed. And it has remained in my mind.

I am referring to the interpretation given to this doctrine by Thomas Aquinas, an exceptional intellectual and a deep mystic.

We, humans, are the image of God.

You. Me. Everyone around.

What does it mean to be the image of God?

You can click a photo and see what someone looks like. We do not have a photo of God. How do we “picture” God?

This is where Aquinas applied his creative intelligence.

By “God” we mean the creator of all. This whole complex and beautiful universe is all God’s work. Far, far larger and more complex than what our small minds can grasp.

To be God’s image means this: To be like the supremely creative being.

In other words, the more creative you are, the more you are like God!

Just think!

Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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True Spouse of Jesus Christ: or the Nun Sanctified By the Virtues of Her State

St Alphonsus M Liguori

This work is a profound reflection on the ideals of monastic life. Written in the 18th century, Alphonsus Liguori, a doctor of the Church and founder of the Redemptorists, provides guidance for nuns, but emphasizes its relevance for all seeking deep spirituality and adherence to religious vows. Divided into 24 chapters, the book covers various aspects of religious life, including the excellence of consecrated virginity, the advantages of a religious state, self-denial, interior and external mortification, humility, fraternal charity, patience, and more. Liguori emphasizes that love in the science of the saints produces knowledge. The final chapter presents the ‘Rule of Life for a Religious Who Desires to Become a Saint,’ outlining virtues essential for aspiring saints. Additionally, two letters are included—one addressed to a novice, urging gratitude for choosing a happier existence as Jesus’ spouse, and another to a woman in doubt, encouraging her to consider the blessedness of renouncing the world. Overall, Liguori’s work combines deep reflection with devotional aspects, offering valuable insights for both religious and secular individuals seeking a life of profound spirituality and virtue.

The Mystical City of God –

Venerable Mary of Agreda.

This is a four-volume work offering private revelations approved by the Church. Venerable Mary, a Franciscan Abbess, experienced visions from the Blessed Virgin, providing insights into the hidden life of Mary and events not covered in the Gospels. The book, a classic of Marian mysticism, details five segments of Mary’s life: the Conception, Incarnation, Transfixion, and Coronation. Despite doubts and controversies, the work was eventually published after a lengthy process, including doubts, investigations, and theological debates. Mary of Agreda’s bilocation reports in the 1620s, particularly among the Jumano tribe in New Mexico and Texas, inspired Franciscan missionaries. The narrative spans from the Virgin’s Immaculate Conception to her Assumption and Coronation, presenting Mary as Co-Redemptress alongside Jesus. Thematically divided into three parts, the book covers Mary’s life including the Annunciation, Christ’s entire life and Mary’s role in salvation, and finally, Mary’s life after Christ’s Ascension to her transition, Assumption, and Coronation as the Empress of Heaven. Commended by popes, cardinals, and theologians, it remains a contemplative journey through biblical events from the perspective of the Mother of God.

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If you want to see a candle and its light, you should have eyesight. You must be able to see. For the ‘candle’ for the first month of a new year, let me hold aloft the life of a man who helped tens of thousands of people see. He died on 21 November 2023, but the institutions he created with a far-reaching vision are continuing to help millions receive or recover their eyesight.

S.S. Badrinath (Sengamedu Srinivasa Badrinath) was born in Triplicane, a traditional, well-known area in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India on 24 February 1940.  His father, S. V. Srinivasa Rao, was an engineer in government service. His mother, Lakshmi Devi, was the daughter of an advocate in Nerur, Tamil Nadu.  An illness forced Badrinath to begin his school education a little late at the age of 7. He studied at P.S. High School, Mylapore, and Sri Ramakrishna Mission High School, Chennai. Sadly, when he was just 11, his mother died and eight years later his father too passed away.

Fr M.A. Joe Antony, SJ

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On November 1, 2023, Pope Francis issued a concise document encouraging theologians to address the everyday challenges of life and actively participate in dialogue with non-believers. Keeping this in mind, I would like to reflect on my own experiences with non-believers and offer a few suggestions that can help us better understand their perspective of life.

During a journey, I engaged in a conversation with a person who identified as a non-believer but was curious about religious life. Initially hesitant, I mustered the courage to answer his questions. When he inquired about how it is possible to remain unmarried, I responded, “By God’s grace.” He then challenged me, asking where God is. Stunned, I explained that we believe God is present in others, as we are created in His image and likeness. He further questioned the need for an invisible God when one can practice values like love and respect without it. I defended my belief by stating that our conscience, which directs us to do good, is a manifestation of God. The non-believer argued that he lives a meaningful life by helping others based on his conscience. When I asked what guides his conscience, he admitted he couldn’t express it.

Sr Benny D’Cunha UFS

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In my tenure as the principal of St. Xavier’s, a women’s college managed by my congregation, I encountered a unique situation involving a Muslim family seeking admission for their daughter. The young girl seemed reluctant, and upon inquiry, her mother explained that she preferred a mixed gender college nearby. However, her father insisted on her attending our institution run by sisters. Observing the girl’s hesitance, I expressed my concern, suggesting that if she were forced into an environment against her wishes, it might adversely impact her academic performance. Addressing her father, I emphasized the importance of granting children the freedom to choose their educational paths in this evolving era. It took considerable effort to convince the father, but eventually, he relented. As the family left my office, there was a palpable sense of peace. Just before departing, the daughter returned, took my hands, and expressed her gratitude. I encouraged her to excel in her studies and not to disappoint her parents. The outcome of this encounter remains unknown to me, but in that moment, a small victory for the autonomy of the young student was achieved.

Having been raised in a family of nine, where the insistence on a convent education was particularly emphasized by my father, all five girls, myself included, were enrolled in the renowned convent school of our city. Looking back, it is undeniable that the education we received at this esteemed institution played a pivotal role in shaping the successful and contented lives that all of us lead today. The impact of our convent schooling is perhaps most evident in the life choices made by my sister and me. Influenced by the disciplined atmosphere and the emphasis on spiritual matters, both of us decided to pursue a religious vocation, albeit in a different congregation. Today, we find immense happiness and contentment in our chosen paths, all stemming from the educational foundation laid in the convent school during our initial years. While my memories of school are enduring, they often revolve around the strict rules and punishments that characterized the environment. Teachers and nuns were figures to be feared, and the freedom for students to express themselves was notably limited. Despite the stringent atmosphere, the positive outcomes of our education are unmistakable in the fulfilling lives we lead.

Sr Shalini Xavier CTC

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I had a meaningful experience at the Kuki Worship Centre in Byrathi, Bangalore, led by Rev. Lunmang Haokip. In response to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Rev. Haokip opened his church to shelter 300 internally displaced people from June 2023. It was during one of their Sunday noon gatherings that I, accompanied by some of our lay associates, went to meet the community. With utmost respect, they invited us to join in their fellowship and communion service. After the service, we entered into conversation about the refugee crisis and their adaptation to life in Bangalore.  Rev. Haokip, with remarkable courtesy, shared insights into their situation, emphasizing, “Our people do not like to be known as migrants or refugees but as internally displaced since we are within India.”  He went on to explain that many had found temporary placements in malls, shops, restaurants, hostels, and shelter homes. These individuals had experienced an abrupt loss of everything, rendering them in need of emotional and spiritual support more than material and financial assistance. As our conversation with Rev. Haokip and other Kuki community members deepened, a poignant message emerged: “The Catholic Bishop, clergy, and religious have done so much to reach out and they stood by us in these most critical times in Bangalore.” Their hope resonated strongly as they expressed a wish for such compassionate outreach to extend universally, stating, “We wish this happens everywhere wherever people suffer violence, hatred, and loss of dignity.”  Recognizing the sense of acceptance they felt, they expressed their readiness to join hands with us and celebrate Christmas meaningfully, aiming to bring more joy to their displaced brethren. This encounter marked the beginning of more conversations that transcended boundaries, creating a sense of unity rooted in shared humanity and a commitment to mutual support.

Sr. Anitha Precilla Lobo, SCB

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The art of conversation is to be the art of healing the wounds of the world. The absence of healthy conversation is the beginning of the breakdown of relationships. For example, when Adam and Eve hid themselves from the presence of the Lord among the trees of the garden of Eden and hesitated to converse with the Lord, one of the first breakdowns of relationship happened. Many of the problems in the communities (local/national/international) arise from the ‘flight mode of conversation’ of their members. In fact, a ‘non-conversation state’ is a ‘frozen state’ (that does not have any growth) in human relationships.

Context

The apostolic letter Ad Theologiam Promovendam (‘To Promote Theology’), released by Pope Francis on November 1, 2023 in the form of a motu proprio, presents a vision for the renewal of theological pursuit within the life of the Church. The letter calls for an ‘outgoing theology’ that develops in a culture of dialogue and encounter between different traditions and different knowledge. Thus, one of the crux of the teachings of this apostolic letter hovers around the concept of ‘dialogue’.

Fr Binny Mary Das

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The Catholic Church in West Bengal and Sikkim held a three-day annual regional meeting of BRBC–CDPI–CRI from 14^th to 16^th November 2023 at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Krishnagar. This is a body comprising of BRBC(Bengal Regional Bishops Council), CDPI(Conference of Diocesan Priests in india) and CRI(Conference of Religious of India) of both Major Superiors and Local CRI Unit Executives. A total number of 82 members attended the meeting.

The inaugural prayer, led by His Grace Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes SDB and the Local CRI Unit of Krishnagar, commenced with a graceful prayer dance. The prayer, centered on the theme “You are the Salt of the Earth and Light of the World,” concluded with the Synod prayer. Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes, the host, extended a warm welcome to all the participants with music and melodious singing. He provided a glimpse of the rich history of the Diocese of Krishnagar. Sr. Sabrina IBVM, President of CRI-WBS, welcomed and felicitated the Bishops and major Superiors, and introduced the dynamics of the meeting. The congregation was asked to silently reflect on the following questions and share their responses in groups:

1. How am I feeling as I am here?
2. What are my expectations?

Fr. Ronee and Fr. Anselm conducted an ice-breaking session to set the mood.  Fr. Vivien SJ, Secretary of Regional CRI-WBS presented the Minutes of the meeting held in the previous year.

The themes for this year were “Current situation in India and our vocation” and “Witnessing Jesus in a digital age.”

The Keynote speaker Fr Cedric Prakash SJ, a renowned Social, Human Rights and Peace Activist and Writer was invited to share with us his insights and facilitate the group on the first day. In his talk on “Current situation in India and our vocation” he first spoke about the vocation we have received and how we are set apart to be different like Jesus. Jesus who was born in a stable and died on the cross is the one to whom we have committed our lives. Jesus critiqued the situations around Him: if He could do so, why are we afraid to stand up, to take risks and to ask questions? Fr Cedric Prakash challenged the group, stating that we choose, at least occasionally or at times to be in our comfort zones. We need to understand the CONTEXT of today. Jesus knew His context. For example, the desert experience of Jesus: He knew that He was in a position to use power, privilege, prestige and pride and yet He did not give in to evil, but rather rejected all worldly attractions. It is time now that we re-visit the vision and mission of our Founders. Compassion is the most important virtue needed to reach out to the poor and the needy. It becomes possible through proper discernment and a total commitment to the call.

In his talk Fr Cedric reminded us that most of the time we are with our Church/Convent compound mentality. Taking risks is narrowed down due to fear. Look at the life of Jesus. He stood up for truth. Here is a point to reflect: is it better to do nothing or do something and die on the cross as Jesus did? What is the journey ahead? We need to be prudent and should have the sense of direction and not compromise in this because Jesus came to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted. Situations in Manipur and different parts of the world, is a warning sign for us to stand up united and fight for the cause. Addressing the current Indian scenario and our divine calling, Fr. Cedric emphasized our responsibility to stand up, question, and address societal issues fearlessly, echoing Jesus’ courage to challenge prevailing norms.

In the following session, participants were encouraged to discuss and share their insights on the primary concerns, challenges, and noteworthy issues that hold paramount significance in both the Church and the country. Following the discussions, Father Cedric shed light on the Indian Constitution, considered the most sacred document for a citizen of India. He delved into key articles and the essential, interrelated dimensions of the Constitution, urging everyone to exercise their right to vote and inspire others to do the same. During his engaging session, Father Cedric Prakash animatedly enlightened us about the significance of understanding and appreciating our Constitution. He particularly emphasized learning and teaching others about the Preamble and the fundamental rights and duties embedded in our constitutional framework. Concluding the session, Father Cedric challenged us to wake up and raise our prophetic voices. He stressed that it is high time to begin, starting with each individual (‘I’). He encouraged us to familiarize ourselves with the Constitution, get involved, and join the civil society, collaborating with people of goodwill. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, especially as we approach the 2024 elections, Father Cedric urged everyone to ensure that their names, as well as those of community members, co-workers, friends, and collaborators, are on the electoral rolls. Exercising our franchise and encouraging others to do so, he emphasized, is our responsibility as citizens and as religious individuals committed to our people.

A session on “Witnessing Jesus in a Digital Age” led by Sr. Joeyanna FSP explored the significance of being empowered by the Holy Spirit in navigating the digital realm. Sr. Joeyanna began the session by asking us to imagine, what if Jesus was born in this digital age? What would have been His presence in the social media and what about His preaching? Jesus was totally in connection with His Father and He was filled with the Holy Spirit. The Father sent Him on a Mission (Lk 4:18). She highlighted the need to strengthen connections with the divine to authentically represent Jesus in the digital space while cautioning against the spread of fake news and rumours. In our fast-evolving world, we proudly discuss innovations like ChatGPT and AI (Artificial Intelligence). She emphasized the increasing demand and widespread use of AI in her speech. A short video on the moral implications of AI was shown. She addressed the intersection of AI and human dignity, discussing challenges like the erosion of agency and autonomy, risks of algorithmic bias, discriminatory practices, and the moral implications of AI. Additionally, she touched upon the importance of digital literacies.

On the last day, Fr. Supriyo Biswas CDPI President, Krishnagar, presented the report of CDPI 2022-2023. Fr. Jude SFX presented the CRI Major Superiors’ report on Ecological Conversion done by the various congregations. Fr. Vivien SJ presented the report of Regional CRI & CRI Local units of WB & Sikkim, as well as the data of the number of Religious communities and its members in WB & Sikkim. Sr. Sabrina and Fr. Vivien encouraged the CRI units to have a common plan and agenda and create a CRI vocation team and a database of the religious specialized in certain areas, which could help the Region in general to make the best use of the human resources available in our region.

A new book, Biblical Characters – Exemplars of Synodal Leadership, written by Sr. Inigo SSAM, and published by Pauline Publications, was released by Rev. Bishop Nirmal Vincent Gomes.

In the afternoon, the group convened to formulate a concrete and time-bound action plan for the upcoming year, building on insights from the two key topics discussed by the resource persons. Fourteen smaller groups proposed three action plans each for consideration in the coming year.  A core committee was formed to focus on the three main issues. The elected Core committee members are Bishop Vincent Aind, BRBC Vice President, Fr. Arjen Tete SJ, Sr. Jane Nadackal SMI, Fr. Supriyo Biswas CDPI, Fr. Lawrence D’ Almeida SVD, Sr. Diana D’Souza and the Regional CRI-WBS Team.

The three days’ meeting concluded with a Thanksgiving Eucharist concelebrated by Rev. Thomas D’Souza, the Archbishop of Calcutta, and other bishops and priests present. At the end of the Mass the newly elected CRI Regional Team, Sr. Maria Diksha AC (President), Sr. Celine Fathima SSAM (Vice President), Sr Crescencia Sun RNDM (Treasurer), Fr. Arjen James Tete SJ and Sr. Anice Thekekudy SCCG (Executive members) were given a special blessing.

We remain ever grateful to the organizing team members, Sr Sabrina IBVM, Fr Jude SFX, Sr Diksha AC, Sr Celine SSAM and Fr Vivien SJ for their selfless and dedicated service in the past years. This Annual Regional Meeting served as a platform for reflection, dialogue, and collaboration, aiming to empower and guide the Catholic community in addressing contemporary challenges while staying true to their vocation and faith.

Sr Sofia Thomas FSP

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Sunita Madam, a beloved Nursery class teacher, found herself in a medical emergency, requiring urgent hospitalization during her seventh month of pregnancy. The ensuing days unfolded with a mixture of hope and despair as she delivered a baby boy, who, unfortunately, was born deformed and unhealthy. The doctor, faced with the challenging circumstances, reluctantly declared his helplessness in saving the fragile child. The news of the child’s condition was a devastating blow to the family, who grappled with the harsh reality before them. The situation faced by Sunita, known for her friendly and welcoming nature, became a significant test of faith for her colleagues. Their trust in a benevolent God who cares for His children was shaken, and a somber mood enveloped the school community. In this trying time, an interesting shift occurred in the beliefs of the local people. Instead of turning to their favorite gods and goddesses, they looked up to the figure of Jesus adored by the Sisters’ in the community. The devotion and faith of the sisters in Jesus became a source of solace and inspiration for those seeking comfort in times of danger.

Raising our hearts in prayer, we, the Sisters, ventured into the hospital,  desiring to see the new born babe and hoping for a miracle. However, our earnest plea to the medical staff to have a glimpse of the child fell on indifferent ears. Undeterred, I humbly implored the doctor, “Please give us just one quick chance,  a solitary moment to touch the child.” In response, the doctor, with a grave expression, questioned our understanding, reminding us of the imminent tragedy unfolding. Undaunted, I softly asserted, “Doctor, we are educated Nuns, mothers to many, not indifferent to any soul’s plight.” Despite initial resistance, they acquiesced, bringing the fragile child to us in a small tray. Gently, I extended my finger and touched his lips in a silent, sacred communion.

Sr Mariella CTC

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