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“It’s impossible! It’s useless! It’s a Herculean task!” These were the repeated sentiments expressed by teachers, parents, and Abhinav’s classmates. The consensus was that Abhinav couldn’t change, improve, or behave differently—he was deemed a hard nut to crack. On a particular Monday, the class teachers collected Rs. ten thousand for assisting cancer patients. I placed the money on my office table with the intention of passing it on to the office staff. However, upon returning at noon, the money had mysteriously vanished. Reluctant to accuse anyone at the school, I felt a sense of shame and requested my superior to adjust and provide the missing amount. To my surprise, the following morning brought a revelation about Abhinav’s character from the students of Class IX-B. They were bubbling with excitement to share the news of Abhinav’s generous gesture. He had treated his classmates to ice cream, noodles, hot dogs, and patties without any apparent reason, showcasing a newfound quality that contradicted the earlier skepticism.

As the students excitedly recounted Abhinav’s unusual behavior, my thoughts turned to the missing amount from my office table. During the break, I decided to have a heart-to-heart talk with Abhinav. I commended him for the surprise treat he had given his friends, without any apparent reason for celebration like a birthday, good result, or a special family event. In a candid manner, Abhinav responded without hesitation, “I love my friends, but I never get the chance to enjoy with them. Even on my birthday, I have to settle for sweets like éclairs. Yesterday, I came looking for you, but you were away for supervision, and I saw the money on your table… without a second thought, I took it and used it.”

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Sr Mariella CTC

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The URU Region of the CRI encompasses Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttrakhand. The region is home to approximately 66 religious Brothers, 280 Religious Priests, and around 2,628 Women Religious.

The CRI in the URU Region has actively engaged in diverse outreach initiatives to address the needs of deserving individuals, particularly in the challenging periods of the post Covid pandemic. Motivated by the profound insights of feminist theologian Joan Chittister, who asserted that “Religious life is not about a numbers game,” the members were inspired to recognize that spiritual leadership transcends mere numerical considerations. Empowered by the vision of Jesus we embarked on a collective journey to uncover our own potential as women and men called to lead in the spirit of Jesus. Each member is seen as a leader, and the focus shifted towards contemplating actions that can be taken at both regional and local levels to cultivate leadership that is life-giving and enriching. The reflection centered on the question of how we can collectively contribute to fostering trans-formative leadership within the church and society in the contemporary context.

As a group, we engaged in introspective dialogue, posing inquiries such as “Where do we stand at present?” and “How do we perceive our Mission today?” Drawing inspiration from Vita Consecrata, we identified faithfulness to the charism as a significant challenge—one that should manifest vibrantly in each member. Recognizing ourselves as an integral part of the Church of the Lord, we devised an action plan to actualize this commitment. In the year 2023, we made strategic decisions:

• Contextualized Approach by reading the signs of the times and adapting our actions accordingly.
• Recognizing the importance of collaboration, we committed to establishing connections with non-governmental organizations, as well as both secular and religious entities.
• Acknowledging the need for revitalization, we set forth plans to breathe new life into CRI, fostering renewed energy and commitment.

Initiatives of the URU region in 2023:

In alignment with these strategic decisions for 2023, the religious of URU Region have been actively involved in a range of impactful activities, reflecting our commitment to faithfulness and service. The following initiatives demonstrate the dedication of the members to fostering positive change:

Global Solidarity and Environmental Stewardship Initiatives: At the heart of our efforts as missionaries lies a fervent commitment to fostering global solidarity and environmental stewardship. To manifest this dedication, the members participated in  peace rallies during pivotal events, such as the Russia Ukraine war and instances of violence against minority groups, including Christians. These rallies served as powerful expressions of our unwavering support for peace, unity, and human rights on a global scale. Simultaneously, the CRI members of URU region organized environmental conservation programmes through tangible actions aimed at preserving and safeguarding our planet. Through initiatives like tree plantations and cleanliness drives, we actively contributed to the ongoing struggle against environmental degradation. These endeavors underscore our belief in the urgent need for collective responsibility in the face of environmental challenges, and serve as a testament to the commitment of Religious men and women to have a positive impact on the world.

Comprehensive Social Uplift Programmes: To enhance the well-being of communities in need,  the religious sisters and brothers of URU region organized meaningful initiatives to make a relevant impact on the lives of individuals facing socioeconomic challenges:

Education Empowerment for the Underprivileged:  Recognizing the trans-formative power of education and as part of our commitment to social upliftment, we initiated various projects to provide educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged children. The programs implemented by the members over the past year (2023) include:

• Support for higher education and skill development training for students.
• Implementation of relaxation and concessions in school fees.
• Provision of free tuitions for economically challenged children and school dropouts.
• Conducting non-formal education, health, and hygiene classes specifically for scavengers.
• Organizing motivational classes to inspire students to contribute both in cash and kind to assist the less fortunate.
• Distribution of mobile phones to students to facilitate online classes and remote learning.

Healthcare Access for the poor:

Prioritizing the health and well-being of the poor, the members organized medical outreach programs. These include organizing free medical camps and providing essential treatment services to those in need and special care to the bed ridden and helpless persons in the parish.  Additionally, financial aid and medical equipment were provided to our hospitals to improve healthcare services for the poor.

Initiatives for Holistic Development:

Beyond education and healthcare, the commitment to uplifting communities involved various initiatives:

• Providing a monthly ration to eight deserving families.
• Offering regular financial assistance to five elderly individuals to meet their expenses.
• Assisting migrants in reaching their native homes.
• Implementing programs tailored for domestic helpers.
• Engaging in systematic Prison Ministry efforts.
• Conducting counseling sessions whenever needed and possible.
• Providing houses to deserving families.

Through these diverse efforts, we aim to bring about positive and lasting change, empowering individuals and communities to build a brighter and more equitable future.

Community Support Program: The members have undertaken initiatives ranging from immediate disaster relief to initiatives that foster long-term growth.

Flood Relief Operations:  During times of natural disasters, particularly floods affecting our surrounding districts, the religious brothers and sisters activated flood relief programmes to provide timely assistance and support to those adversely affected. This initiative reflects the dedication of the members to stand by the people during their times of greatest need.

Food Distribution: Understanding the critical importance of addressing hunger the members have actively engaged in food distribution initiatives. The goal is to ensure that no one goes without the basic necessity like food.

Strengthening Bonds through Family Visits: Family visits play a crucial role in the church’s mission by fostering a deeper connection with individuals within their familial context. Recognizing the importance of fostering strong community bonds, we have intensified our efforts to connect with our people through regular family visits. These initiatives provided us with an opportunity to understand and address the unique needs, challenges, and spiritual well-being of families and provide faith formation.

Cloth Banks in Schools for Inclusivity: To address the clothing needs of poor students we established cloth banks. These banks serve as a sustainable solution to clothing requirements. By ensuring that every child has access to essential clothing, we contribute to a sense of dignity and equality.

Religious Observances for Spiritual Unity: Emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth and unity, the CRI members actively engage in holy hours and adoration across all religious houses. These observances serve as a collective spiritual practice, fostering a sense of togetherness among the CRI members.

Inclusive Celebrations and Outreach: In our commitment to inclusivity, festive occasions such as Christmas and Deepawali were celebrated with marginalized communities, including prisoners. We extended our outreach by visiting families of different faiths during their festivals and distributing warm clothes to those in need, embodying the spirit of compassion and shared joy.

Counseling Services for Mental Well-being: Acknowledging the significance of mental health, we provided counseling services where required and feasible. This initiative reflects our dedication to the overall well-being of our people especially students and children, recognizing the importance of mental health especially in our troubled times.

Religious Seminars Addressing Contemporary Issues: Organizing seminars for religious members, we addressed relevant topics pertaining to our lives and the present socio-religious landscape.  Some of the topics dealt with are:

• Seminars on Constitution of India,
• Minority Rights,
• New Education Policy 2020.
• Present socio-political scenario of our country.

Creating a space for learning and dialogue, these seminars bring growth and a visionary focus among us as a religious family.

These initiatives reflect our collective commitment to living out our charism and mission in the spirit of service and community building. We remain dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve, embodying the values of faithfulness, compassion, and solidarity.  In conclusion, our heartfelt gratitude extends to the CRI national team, with special appreciation for Sr. Nirmalini AC, the President, and Sr. Elsa Muttathu PBVM, the National Secretary. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in our journey. Lastly, we acknowledge and thank God for the ongoing wonders He graciously performs through each and every one of us.

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Pope Francis at the opening address of the Synod in October 2021 said that ‘we must not forget God’s style, which is closeness, compassion and tender love.’ It was a time when the fear of death and dying masked in the form of Covid19 pandemic played havoc with life and hope.  The pope then emphasized that he envisaged ‘a church that does not stand aloof from life, but immerses itself in today’s problems and needs, bandaging wounds and healing broken hearts with the balm of God.’ When wearing masks and maintaining distance and quarantine were becoming the new normal and covid was becoming synonymous with hopeless end, Synodality was ushered in to pave the way for an endless hope.

“Dear brothers and sisters” said Pope Francis during the Homily at the opening of the Synod, “Let us have a good journey together, may we be pilgrims in love with the Gospel and open to the surprises of the Holy Spirit. Let us not miss out the grace filled opportunities born of encounter, listening and discernment.” This was something the world was waiting to hear, a call to break free from the clutches and confinements of the culture of death and dying of our time and to journey forward on the road to life and living, warming one another’s heart to move together spreading the good news. So that with synodality being our way of life for the future  all our tower of Babel confusions and divisions may give way to the one heart and mind with a spirit of unity and understanding of the Pentecost.

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Fr. Babu Jose Pamplany OFM

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On the occasion of the World Synod of Bishops, I had the privilege of attending the 1st World Meeting of Professional Lay Ministers on the theme of ‘Beyond clericalism, for the people’s sake on the empowerment of non-ordinary ministers’. This meeting was organized from the 1st of October to the 5th of October 2023 in Rome by the Association of Professional Pastoral Ministers in Germany, which at this moment might be the largest organization of full-time lay theologians in the world.

The meeting aimed at bringing together theologically educated laity and pastoral lay ministers from all continents to reflect on their status, role, and mission in a synodal church. The meeting also aimed at empowering lay ministers (non-ordained but theologically educated professional pastoral ministers) working in various countries all over the world given the fact that though their work is a long-given reality in the Roman Catholic Church, it still seems to be overshadowed many times by subversive ecclesial perspectives.  Also though this ministry reveals an ecclesiological alternative to the “classical” dualism between clergy and laity, it is neither well-known nor largely accepted.

THE PEOPLE & THE PROCESS

The meeting was attended by 22 professional lay ministers and theologians from 12 countries – Bolivia, Austria, Switzerland, Peru, Philippines, Ghana, India, USA, Germany, Korea, and Slovenia. In our five days together we prayed, discussed, shared amazing meals, and also had the chance to visit some important historical sites of Rome. We got to know each other, shared our experiences, and listened to each other as we engaged in the various processes designed to help us connect and reflect. Some members of our group attended the opening Mass of the Synod on the 4th of October to show our solidarity with the Synod process. In addition to our exchange and as a fitting conclusion to our process, there was also a meeting with the participants of the Synod at an official evening get-together. The outcomes of the reflections of the meeting (which had been synthesized and compiled in a paper) were then shared with the Synod delegates. Through our interactions with the delegates and the paper, we hope that their voices would influence the processes of the World Synod of Bishops so that lay ministries could become a sign of hope for the emerging Church.

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Ms Grace David

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Ubuntu is a profound Nguni Bantu term that encapsulates a fundamental essence of African culture, translated as “I am because we are.” This concept emphasizes the interdependence of all people, highlighting that our individual well-being is intertwined with the well-being of others. In a philosophical sense, Ubuntu signifies a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity and eloquently underscores the intrinsic values of community, compassion, and mutual respect. In a world increasingly marked by individualism, violence, hate, and extreme secularism within the Church, Ubuntu becomes relevant, serving as a beacon, inspiring a longing for global solidarity, moving from aloneness to ‘we’ness. Pope Francis, a vocal advocate for synodality, revitalizes a ‘we’ Church that stimulates a ‘journeying together’; promotes one human community celebrating diversity; and suggests a Pilgrim Church that is always in movement, embracing global Catholic solidarity.

A ‘We’ Church: Navigating Beyond Comfort Zones

With each stroke of his pen in the ecclesiastical writings, Pope Francis, challenges Catholics to move beyond comfort zones. In a special way, Evangelii Gaudium urges outreach to the peripheries, Laaudato si’ emphasizes the urgent need for care for the Earth, Fratelli Tutti highlights the importance of universal fraternity, and synodality awakens and strengthens the ecclesial ‘we’, practicing communion at the service of the ‘common home’.

In his quest for a synodal Church, Pope Francis not only preaches, but also practices this ‘we’ philosophy, creating a harmonious resonance that reverberates throughout the ecclesiastical landscape. Once during his visit to the regional seminary in Bologna, Italy, Pope Francis posed a thought-provoking question to the seminarians: “What is the opposite of ‘I’?” Anticipating a simple ‘you’ in response, the seminarians were surprised when the Pope gently shook his head. He patiently explained, “No, the word ‘I’ denotes an individual, as does ‘you’. It’s illogical for singular words to be opposites. The true opposite of ‘I’ is ‘we’, representing the rich fabric of communitarian plurality.” The event loudly speaks of an inclusive, multicultural, and interconnected ‘we’ Church. This metaphorical shift from fragmented singular to communitarian plural represents the fertile diversity and collective existence that defines a synodal Church.

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Fr Jayaseelan Savariarpitchai SDB

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As we all know, we are in an era of ever-increasing finance related statutory compliance. As days go by, the volume of compliance keeps increasing so much that quite many of us are at a loss. As a help for those who may need, here I have tried to list them, some old provisions but many new changes, so that we are familiar with the list and learn to comply.

Income Tax-related Compliance

1. As per section 12AB, once every 5 years charitable and religious trusts registered u/s 12A have to get their 12A, henceforth 12AB, renewed.
2. Trusts registered under 12A (12AB) get tax exemption on all their income, if 85% of the annual income is spent [except corpus donation (section 11(1)(d)] in India on their objectives spelt out in their Memorandum of Association [section 11(1)].
3. As per section 139(4A), if income of the trust is beyond the basic exempt income, which is Rs 2.5 lakhs for now, the accounts have to be audited and Income Tax Return has to be filed.
4. As per section 139(1), IT exemption is denied ipso facto if form 10 is not filed before the due date u/s 139(1).
5. No modification of the objects of the trust without permission from Commissioner of Income Tax.
6. Corpus donation made to another trust cannot be claimed as an application (cannot be part of the 85% application). However, a trust can make a corpus donation to another trust from its 15% savings of the current year’s income.

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Fr Alex G SJ

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About two years before his ordination, this seminarian who belonged to the Holy Cross Congregation, was diagnosed with advanced tuberculosis. He had to be in the hospital for months. After a year the doctors told him he had only two options. He could have surgery, which was risky and did not guarantee a cure. What do you think was the other option? Prayer.

He had a wise mentor, Fr Cornelius Hagerty, of the Holy Cross Congregation. He urged the gravely sick seminarian to pray to our Blessed Mother. “What she asks for and insists on she always gets. She has never failed anyone who went to her with faith and perseverance.” The seminarian started praying the Rosary which had been a part of his life when he grew up.

After a week of ardent prayer, the seminarian surprised the doctors by declaring he had been cured. They examined him and were astounded to find he had indeed been cured. So his priestly formation continued and he was ordained, along with his older brother, on 15 June 1941. “That day I gave my heart and soul in love to Mary,” he said. He was Fr. Patrick Peyton, who came to be known around the world as ‘The Rosary priest’.

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FR M.A. Joe Antony SJ

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In 2025, the Catholic Church will observe a significant milestone, as it marks the Jubilee Year, a sacred period with the inspiring theme “Pilgrims of Hope” bestowed by Pope Francis. In the following article, Sister Celine contemplates the profound spiritual significance of this upcoming event and delves into the spiritual journey that the Church is summoned to embark upon.

Fruitful Memories of two Jubilees:

GREAT JUBILEE 2000 called by Pope John Paul II, held from December 1999 to January 6, 2001, as a celebration of the Mercy of God, prepared for it with a three-year intense preparation. It ushered the Church into the third millennium of her history. Putting aside all historical divisions the Church celebrated the two thousandth anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ, as a special time of grace of God.

Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy

We celebrated the extraordinary jubilee of Mercy from December 8, 2015 to November 20,2016.   In calling for this Jubilee year, Pope Francis encouraged us

• to grow ever more convinced of God’s Mercy,
• to discover the face of God’s Mercy,
• to show that face of mercy to the world through our words and actions,
• to put aside all fear and dread, and
• encounter that grace which transforms all things.

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Sr. Celine D’Cunha FMA

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God’s Best Ideas!

Fr Fio Mascarenhas (1998)

This publication is a concise guide to spirituality for the third millennium. The book, written in response to John Paul II’s call to “broaden horizons,” explores key Catholic doctrines in a simple, clear manner grounded in the Bible. The introduction focuses on the Fatherhood of God, revealed in the Old Testament and further expounded in the Gospels. Recognizing the crisis in today’s faith formation due to modern secularism, the author advocates for a fresh approach to Catholic spirituality and a new evangelization based on Trinitarian spirituality. The book begins with a reflection on God’s fatherhood, culminating in the teachings of Jesus in Matthew and John’s Gospels. Chapter 1 shares the author’s personal experiences as a seminarian and pastor, emphasizing the need for a more profound experience of the Good News rather than mere ritualization and intellectualization. Subsequent chapters explore Jesus, the spiritual experiences of saints like St. Francis and Ignatius Loyola, the role of the Holy Spirit in the Church, the Eucharist, the Bible, and Marian devotion. Throughout, the author emphasizes that God’s best ideas aim to bless, heal, strengthen, and provide abundant life. In essence, the book encourages disciples to be actively involved in the world, transforming it into a place where the upright feel at home.

Evangelisation: The Story of Jesus, His Apostles and Evangelists (2010)

Fr Joseph Parachalil

This book offers a fresh perspective on Jesus, tracing his ministry through the apostolic mission, Church fathers, and into the modern world via legendary saints and martyrs. Grounded in the Bible, it reveals historical insights often overlooked by the ordinary faithful. Emphasizing the Church’s essential missionary nature, the author calls for a revitalization of the Mission of Christ, echoing Jesus’ command to “preach the Gospel to the whole creation.” The book, spanning 23 chapters, explores the roots of the Church, the struggles of apostles globally, including India, and the challenges faced by later Churches. In our contemporary era, the author asserts the need to repeatedly share the story of Jesus and his disciples, translating the great message of salvation into daily life after encountering Christ. Dispelling misconceptions, individual chapters focus on prominent figures like Saints Peter, Andrew, James, Thomas, Matthias, Paul, Barnabas, John, Simon the Zealot, and even Judas Iscariot, followed by the evangelists. Noteworthy historical tidbits include St. Thomas as the acknowledged first apostle of India and the brief evangelization and martyrdom of Bartholomew (possibly Nathaniel) in North India around the same time. Ultimately, the book underscores that the mission of evangelization is achieved not through teachers and preachers alone but by the living examples of those committed to the cause, sharing their personal experiences.

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Even before the invention of thermometers, people knew when they or someone else had fever. Don’t you remember your mother putting her hand on your neck and saying, “You have fever”?

Similarly, what we today call “counselling” (or psychotherapy or whatever) did not start with the new academic pursuit called psychology. People faced emotional distress—depression, jealousy, anger, fear, worry, broken relationships, stress, confusion, despair, feelings of rejection or inferiority. It is normal to talk about such disturbing or stressful events or feelings with someone we trust. We have all done it. Most of us have listened to others who spoke to us about their distress. Many find relief when they pour out their disturbing or confusing feelings.

Today, we probably have a more systematic understanding of mental and emotional struggles, and of how help can be given. We have all heard this word, “counselling.” Let me make ten simple and basic statements about it—hoping this helps the reader to clarify issues and also to seek and give help when needed.

1. Everyone needs it: During my initial training in counselling, Carlos Welch, a wonderfully effective counsellor from the US who worked in India, told us one day that everybody needs counselling. I raised this objection: “Carlos, you told us the other day that, as adults, we need to stand on our own feet. Today, you are telling us that we need counselling.” He gave me a wise and practical answer: “Joe, standing on one’s own feet means that there are times when we realize and admit that we need help.”

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Fr Joe Mannath SDB

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