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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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The Magician’s Twin: C.S. Lewis and the Case against Scientism (2012)

John G West (Editor)

This collection of essays by 10 prominent contemporary intellectuals delves into C.S. Lewis’s critique of modern science-oriented civilization, where science is often elevated to a secular form of religion. Lewis challenges the prevailing notion of scientism, which sees science as the sole source of truth and wisdom, and warns against its dehumanizing effects on society. He argues that while science is valuable within its domain, when it encroaches into areas beyond its scope, it leads to detrimental consequences. Lewis compares science to magic, highlighting how both can be akin to religions, fostering strong beliefs and authority figures within their respective fields. He emphasizes the importance of skepticism and critical thinking in the face of ideologies masquerading as science. Ultimately, Lewis advocates for a broader understanding of human knowledge that acknowledges the limitations of science and embraces the richness of other disciplines, including religion, in providing meaning and understanding to human existence.

Science fiction often exploits a magical worldview, celebrating great scientists like Darwin and Einstein. Evolutionism, stemming from Darwin’s Theory, suggests matter can guide itself, an irrational concept. If our minds are products of irrational processes, how can we trust them to be rational? Scientism, akin to ancient magicians seeking control through knowledge, fosters a dangerous quest for power without ethical constraints, risking disaster. To safeguard humanity’s future, we must curb the influence of scientism and subject science to ethical oversight. Understanding the natural world’s design and its relationship with the supernatural is crucial for preserving human freedom and dignity, making it a matter of life and death.

The Way of Perfection –

St. Teresa of Avila

One of the timeless classics of Catholic spirituality, authored by the Spanish Carmelite mystic and reformer, Teresa of Avila, offers profound insights into the essence of spiritual life. With a focus on monastic living, the book comprises 42 chapters, serving as a practical guide to a prayerful existence. Teresa, the first woman Doctor of the Church, shares her teachings and counsels her fellow sisters towards spiritual perfection. Emphasizing her own experiences and insights gained through prayer, she highlights key pillars such as fraternal love, detachment from worldly possessions, and genuine humility. Each chapter begins with a summary of the key ideas presented.

These are:

1. The importance of prayer as prime duty, with fasts, penances, and silence as essential
2. The indwelling presence of God attained through the solitude within
3. Vocal prayers should be said with mindful attention.
4. “Recollection” involves gathering one’s faculties to be with God.
5. Meditation serves as the initial step towards acquiring virtues.
6. Commence prayer by acknowledging God’s intimate presence.
7. Prayer of Quiet entails surrendering the will, leading to spiritual joy.
8. Contemplation, a divine gift, surpasses natural abilities.
9. Poverty encompasses various virtues, granting dominion over earthly goods.
10. Detachment involves prioritizing God over worldly possessions.
11. Mortification of the body aids in overcoming self-indulgence.
12. Humility is the true measure of spiritual progress, crucial for prayer.
13. Perseverance ensures victory in spiritual battles.
14. Holy friendship aims at promoting virtue in others.
15. Obedience to God’s will is the central virtue emphasized by Teresa.
16. Trials and temptations are divine means of guiding believers towards fulfillment.
17. Teresa highlights the trans-formative power of the Eucharist and the importance of faith.

The final chapter reflects on the Lord’s Prayer, particularly the plea to be delivered from evil.

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Phil McGill (not his real name), a rich businessman from an upper-class family in Massachusetts, USA, shared this experience with me. His story enlightened me a lot.

We had become friends, and he was taking me to his home for dinner. At a certain moment, he stopped, and said: “What a lovely tree!” We both looked at a large tree near the road. It was lush and green. The sky was a beautiful blue.

“Earlier,” he told me, “I never stopped to look at the beauty of nature. I just drove my car, to get back home fast.”

“What changed you, Phil?”

“A close friend’s death.”

“Oh! How did it affect you?”

“We were the same age. He died of a heart attack at the age of forty-two. I had never thought of death until then. I just took everything for granted—my life, my health, my loving wife, my two wonderful daughters, my work. I simply kept busy, went to work every morning, came back home in the evening.”

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Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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