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Saint Maximilian Kolbe: Saint of Auschwitz (1997)

Elaine Murray Stone

Saint Maximilian Kolbe, a hero of the 20th-century Church, is remembered for his profound self-sacrifice, embodying Jesus’ words: “Greater love than this no man has, that a man lay down his life for his friend.” This 120-page biography highlights his life, emphasizing lesser-known aspects of his personality and journey.

Born Raymond Kolbe in Poland on January 8, 1894, to devout, working-class parents, he was a mischievous boy until a punishment from his mother led to a deep spiritual transformation. At the age of 13, he had a vision of Our Lady of Czestochowa, who offered him two crowns—one red, one white. Choosing both, Raymond became Maximilian, symbolizing his devotion to God and Mary.

In 1907, Maximilian and his brother joined a Franciscan seminary. After his ordination in 1918, he founded the Knights of the Immaculate Movement, dedicated to spreading devotion to the Virgin Mary and converting sinners. In 1927, he established the Niepokalanów monastery, a Catholic publishing hub, and in 1930, launched a mission in Japan with the creation of Mugenzai no Sono in Nagasaki.

Returning to Poland in 1936 due to health issues, Kolbe faced the rise of Nazism. In 1941, he was arrested and sent to Auschwitz. When 10 men were chosen to starve to death for one escape attempt, Kolbe volunteered to take the place of Franciszek Gajowniczek, a man with a family. Despite enduring two weeks of starvation, Kolbe remained alive until he was executed with a lethal injection on August 14, 1941.

Beatified in 1971 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1982, Saint Maximilian Kolbe’s life continues to inspire devotion and sacrifice.

Contemplative Prayer (1971)

Thomas Merton

This book, posthumously published a year after the accidental death of the author Thomas Merton, the renowned American Trappist monk in Bangkok, is a collection of profound reflections on the contemplative life and its methods, drawing from a wide range of traditions and Merton’s deep erudition and insight, including Eastern non-Christian ideas.

In the Foreword, A. M. Alchin notes the book’s two main sections: one traces the history of contemplative prayer from the Desert Fathers to St. John of the Cross, while the other delves into Merton’s personal struggle to express the anxiety, dread, and emptiness often encountered in contemplative prayer, particularly in modern times. Merton highlights that contemplative prayer is not only for monks but for every Christian.

Key points of the book include:

1. Essence of Contemplative Prayer: Merton stresses silence, stillness, and solitude, inviting a deeper awareness of God’s presence.
2. Historical Roots: The development of the practice is explored through the experiences of early Christian mystics and monastic traditions.
3. Practical Steps: Merton offers guidance on silencing the mind, using sacred texts, and embracing solitude.
4. Challenges and Misconceptions: He addresses distractions, doubts, and the misunderstanding that contemplative prayer is an escape from reality.
5. Fruits of Contemplative Prayer: Merton reflects on its transformative effects, such as inner peace and a deeper connection with God.

Merton’s wisdom and expertise provide readers with a deeper understanding of the transformative power of silent communion with the divine. In the conclusion of the book, he points out that without contemplation and interior prayer, the Church cannot fulfill her mission to transform and save humankind. It involves total love for God and an uncompromising thirst for His truth.

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A mother’s role often goes far beyond caregiving; she becomes the primary source of faith and values within her family, embodying God’s love in quiet yet transformative ways. Across cultures, mothers are frequently the first to plant the seeds of faith in the hearts of their children, guiding them through daily acts of love, prayer, and sacrifice. Much like the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose “yes” to God brought salvation into the world, a mother’s devotion creates a ripple effect that touches not only her family but also the wider community. Her unwavering example of faith and kindness becomes a living testament to God’s Love and Mercy, helping others to see Christ’s presence in their lives. Through this gentle evangelization, a mother’s faith nurtures a legacy of faith and compassion that resonates for generations.

A mother’s journey of faith is woven into the fabric of her daily life through prayer, sacrifice, and trust in God’s Will. Whether through fasting, attending Mass, or small acts of love, she creates an environment in which her children naturally absorb a Christian way of life. Her example demonstrates that faith is not merely a set of beliefs but a living relationship with God. Like Mary and Joseph, who responded to God’s call with courage, a mother’s response to life’s challenges becomes a guiding light for her family, showing them how to find God in every circumstance.

Sr Amala SAT

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Joseph Buzzetti, a Salesian lay brother, was one of Don Bosco’s early helpers. He was a hard-working and generous man, but also impulsive in his decisions. When some of the boys in Don Bosco’s care became Salesians, and were given responsibilities, Brother Buzzetti felt that he was not as important as before. He did not like the new setting, in which his role was not as prominent as before. Being impulsive, he decided to leave, looked for work outside, and found a job. He then went to Don Bosco to wish him good-bye.

He told Don Bosco that he did not like the new changes, and that, being unhappy, he had gone out, found a job, and wanted to wish Don Bosco good-bye.

Don Bosco listened to Buzzetti’s impulsive outburst. Then he told him, “Joseph, I am glad you have found a job. Although you have a job, there will be hardships at the start.” Then, opening the drawer of his desk, he added, “Joseph, you know this desk better than I do. Take from it whatever you need. And whenever you need something, don’t hesitate to come and get it.”

Looking at the young man lovingly, the saint added, “Joseph, we have been friends. I hope you will not forget me.”

Jospeh Buzzetti burst into tears. He never left. He stayed with Don Bosco and worked hard for the boys.

Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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In his recently released encyclical, Dilexit Nos (“He Loved Us”), issued on 24^th October 2024, Pope Francis calls the Catholics to rediscover the transformative power of the love that beats in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The title is inspired by St. Paul’s letter to the Romans 8:35: “through him who loved us”. This profound passage calls the faithful to look deeply into the heart of Christ, recognizing in it the source of all human dignity and divine love. In a world increasingly dominated by consumerism, technology, and distractions, Pope Francis presents the Sacred Heart as a potent antidote – a call for humanity to reconnect with what is essential, meaningful, and eternal. More than just a theological reflection, Dilexit Nos is a roadmap for translating devotion into action, urging believers to embody the Sacred Heart in their everyday lives through compassion, social justice, and ecological responsibility.

The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the most cherished traditions in the Catholic spirituality. Rooted in Scripture, it finds its earliest expressions in the Gospel of John, where Jesus’s pierced side becomes a fountain of love and mercy for the world. Over the centuries, this devotion deepened through the mystical experiences of saints like Margaret Mary Alacoque, who, in the 17^th century, received visions of the Sacred Heart aflame with love for humanity. In Dilexit Nos, Pope Francis reflects on the countless saints, mystics, and movements inspired by this devotion, such as St. John Eudes, who established the Feast of the Sacred Heart, and St. Therese of Lisieux, whose “Little Way” was steeped in trust in God’s loving heart. These figures remind us that devotion to the Sacred Heart is not merely about personal piety, but a call to imitate the love of Jesus in tangible ways, especially toward the marginalized and suffering. The encyclical treasures five profound chapters, each illuminating the dual dimensions of love – the human and the divine – rediscovered in the Heart of Jesus.

1. Rediscovering the Heart of Jesus

The first chapter of Dilexit Nos challenges us to see the heart as the seat of human authenticity and divine love. Pope Francis recalls how the heart, not merely as a physical organ, but as a profound symbol in both ancient philosophy and Scripture, represents the true center of human being. In a world fragmented by superficiality and distractions, the heart, especially the Sacred Heart, invites us back to what is real and lasting. It is in the heart that we find the power to unite body and soul, mind and spirit.

Fr. Jayaseelan Savariarpitchai SDB

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In this second cover story, Sr. Benny offers a compelling reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus and its resonance with feminine energy, as illuminated by Pope Francis in Dilexit Nos. She explores the profound similarities between Christ’s boundless love and the nurturing, empathetic spirit often associated with femininity. These reflections invite us to go beyond fixed roles or binary understandings. Her article highlights the transformative power of love, healing, and sacrifice, which transcend gender while embracing the unique expressions of divine and human compassion. In doing so, it challenges us to see these qualities as both inherently feminine and masculine, and therefore as universal invitations to embody the Sacred Heart’s call to self-giving love and unity.

Dilexit Nos (“He Loves Us”) is Pope Francis’ recent encyclical, which delves into the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a source of both divine and human love. This devotion holds profound significance in addressing the divisions and crises facing today’s world. In the context of global challenges such as consumerism, conflict, and social fragmentation, Pope Francis contrasts these issues with the enduring compassion and unity symbolized by the Sacred Heart.

In the encyclical, Pope Francis highlights Christ’s heart as a unifying center of hope, encouraging believers to view it as a symbol of unconditional love and mercy. He ties this devotion to the experiences of saints and theologians who regard the Sacred Heart as both a personal and collective call to action. Pope Francis also makes references to historical roots, such as the 1673 visions of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, which helped popularize this devotion. He reminds us that the Sacred Heart represents the love poured out by Jesus, especially evident in His sacrifice on the Cross, making it a powerful symbol of solidarity and consolation in the face of human suffering. Through Dilexit Nos, Pope Francis seeks to help the faithful rediscover a heart-centered spirituality that fosters both personal healing and societal transformation.

Sr Benny D’Cunha UFS

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In Cover Story 3, John Bosco explores the deep spiritual connection which countless individuals share with the Sacred Heart, a symbol of love, compassion, and healing. The journey of devotion, from childhood memories to adult reflections, illuminates how this simple yet powerful symbol offers solace and guidance in the trials of life. I hope this cover story inspires you, as it has inspired me, to open your heart to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and experience the peace that comes from living in His Love.

Early Memories: The Lamp and the Sacred Heart
My mother often shared with me a memorable incident from her childhood, which left a lasting impression on me. In her home, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus was a cherished tradition. Since there was no electricity in the villages at that time, her parents would light an oil lamp in front of the Sacred Heart picture, which would burn day and night. Every day, my mother, as a young girl, would clean the lamp, refill it with oil, and light it again. This was a routine task she performed with great joy and devotion.
One day, while she was cleaning the lamp, the glass slipped from her hand and fell onto the cemented floor. But to her surprise, the glass bounced back up and landed on the cot where she was standing, unbroken. She was amazed by this seemingly miraculous event. I was around ten years old when my mother told me this story, and it has remained etched in my memory ever since.
This was my first introduction to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Even as a young child, the story of this incident resonated with me deeply. It was not just a story of a simple household task—it was an invitation to experience the presence of the Sacred Heart in a personal and intimate way.

K. John Don Bosco

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In this fourth cover story, Sr. Anjala reflects on the profound call of Dilexit Nos—to live out the love of Christ. This love, both human and divine, is not just a concept but a call to action.

Dilexit Nos, meaning “He loved us,” captures the heart of the Christian faith: God’s unconditional, sacrificial love for humanity. In Deus Caritas Est, Pope Benedict XVI calls us to embody this transformative love, where divine grace meets human experience. From the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (John 3:16) to everyday acts of selflessness, compassion, and sacrifice, both biblical figures and ordinary people show us how to live this love. We are called to prioritize the good of others, even at personal cost, reflecting God’s boundless love in our lives.

God’s Love as the Foundation of Love

Pope Benedict XVI emphasizes that God is love (1 John 4:8), a love that is not abstract but deeply relational, as shown in the life of Jesus Christ. This love is intimate and personal, inviting humanity into a transformative relationship with God. The greatest demonstration of God’s love is the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross (John 3:16), where God gave His only Son for the salvation of humanity. This act is the foundation for all human love, calling us to love sacrificially.

The Call to Love Others

Christians are called to mirror God’s love by loving others selflessly. As Benedict XVI stresses, love is not just an emotion, but an act of will and sacrifice. This love requires action, often at personal cost, as illustrated by the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37, whose care for a wounded stranger exemplifies love in action, beyond feelings or identity. Love also manifests through charity—the practical expression of love. True charity, as shown in the story of the Widow’s Mite (Mark 12:41-44), involves giving selflessly, regardless of wealth. This teaches that love is sacrificial, and true generosity comes from the heart, prioritizing the good of others over personal gain.

Sr Anjala Lincy Clark, FSPM

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Fr. Fabrice is a director of novices.  During a renewal course that he attended he was introduced to Spiritual Journaling.  He says, “The Journal is a very powerful instrument both for emotional and spiritual growth.  It helps me to enter deeply into my experiences, learn from them and become aware of how God is acting in my life.  It is only two weeks since I started doing it and I find it very useful.”

What is Spiritual Journaling?

            Spiritual Journaling is the practice of regularly recording your experiences, thoughts, reflections and prayers.  It can be done through writing, drawing, preparing a collage, or in other ways.  It includes exploring experiences, composing prayers, meditating on scripture, reflecting on spiritual texts, noting down perplexities, recording insights, etc.  Its purpose is to gain greater awareness of your emotions and thoughts, explore more in depth daily events, become conscious of new learning and insights, become attentive to how God is leading and guiding you, and to grow in your relationship with God.

            Spiritual Journaling is not a chronicle or a diary.  A chronicle is an objective account of what happened, e.g. “John came to meet me at 3.30 p.m.  We talked for twenty minutes.”  A diary is an informal and personal jotting down of events and thoughts of daily life, e.g. “Today John came for a chat and we had a meaningful discussion.  It would be good if I call him tomorrow.”  Spiritual Journaling is a reflective recording of experiences, feelings and thoughts, to gain deeper understanding of one’s inner life and deepen one’s relationship with God, e.g. “Today John came for guidance and listening to him I was deeply moved.  His situation reminded me of Jesus saying that he had compassion on the crowd because they were like sheep without a shepherd.”

Different Types of Journaling

            There are different types of Journaling.

• Gratitude journal – In the evening writing down some things that happened during the day for which you are grateful.
• Dream journal – Writing down your dreams and exploring what they reveal about you.
• Reflection journal – Writing down your reflections from a philosophical or psychological perspective with or without any reference to God.
• Intensive Journal – A structured/systematized form of journaling developed by Ira Progoff which uses specific exercises and prompts to help individuals explore their life experiences, emotions, and goals.
• Prayer Journal – Writing down and exploring what happens during your prayer. Its focus is prayer and not the other events of daily life.
• Spiritual Journal – Recording your spiritual journey.

While all forms of journaling help reflection and facilitate growth spiritual journaling focuses on life’s purpose, one’s spiritual journey and relationship with God.

Fr Jose Kuttianimattathil, sdb

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While discussing the social dimension of wholeness, we mentioned how people need to practice interconnectedness, justice, equality and cultural inclusivity in order to be socially well-developed. Yes, these are indeed important elements of the social dimension but there is one particular quality that is absolutely essential to this dimension which we have termed as CONTRIBUTION. Similar to the highest qualities of the previous three dimensions, it is the contribution that a person makes to the society which characterises and defines a holistic person. In the following image, you can notice all the four highest qualities of the dimensions we have discussed so far.

Contribution is the Pinnacle of Social Dimension

The wholeness paradigm proposes Contribution as the highest expression of the social dimension because it embodies so many essential characteristics of a person’s social living. Firstly, contribution fosters a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection between various kinds of personalities. It helps people move beyond self-centered concerns, leading to meaningful and effective sharing in the needs of others. Socially conscious people cannot but offer their support and collaboration wherever there is need. Among the many examples of great personalities such as Saint Mother Theresa, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Archbishop Oscar Romero, I shall refer to one significant person as a model of the contribution that an individual can make to change the society.

Fr. Dr. Joseph Jeyaraj, sdb

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St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) lived through the 16th and 17th centuries and made a lasting impact on the Church. Honoured as a patron in many dioceses, his spirituality continues to inspire even after four centuries. He was a son, student, priest, missionary, writer, and bishop. His feast is celebrated on 24^th January.

His spirituality is followed by many congregations and continues to attract young people today. In Sydney, the Maternal Heart of Mary Church hosts monthly sessions on his writings, attended by professionals and students. His simple, practical, and down-to-earth teachings remain accessible to all.

Human Spirituality

In his book Introduction to the Devout Life, translated into many languages, St. Francis de Sales, emphasized the universal call to holiness long before Vatican II. He wrote, “God commands Christians, the living plants of His Church, to produce the fruits of devotion according to each one’s ability and occupation.” He also highlighted that devotion should be adapted to an individual’s strength, life situation, and duties. His saying, “I am nothing but human,” underscores the dignity he places on being human.

Spirituality of Love

St. Francis de Sales’ spirituality emphasizes love: “Nothing by force. Everything by love.” His Treatise on the Love of God and Treatise on the Love of Neighbor reflect his deep focus on God’s love and love for others. Pope Francis, in Dilexit Nos, affirms that “the deepest part of us, created for love, will fulfill God’s plan only if we learn to love,” with the heart symbolizing this love. St. Francis highlights God’s personal love, which allows each believer to feel known and respected. His motto, “Live Jesus,” calls us to learn and live the love of Jesus.

Spirituality of Humility

St. Francis de Sales, despite his stature as a bishop, regarded humility as the greatest Christian virtue. He believed humility involved overcoming reactions in humiliating situations and responding gently, even to spiteful people. He encouraged embracing humility and humiliation, following Jesus’ example: “Come to me, all who are overburdened… for I am meek and humble of heart.” Known for guiding others with love and compassion, he earned the title of the “Gentleman Saint.”

Fr Vincy Samy MSFS

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