home

Synodality is journeying together as the People of God listening to each person as a member of the Church to understand how God might be speaking to all of us. The three words in the logo in itself speaks for the ultimate aim for which the synod was called, “communion, participation, and mission.” The Holy Father wanted this synod to be participative and universal as our Church is in dire need of listening to her people who are yearning to pour their hearts out. As Dr. Richard Declue notes, “The aim of this synod, then, is more practical than doctrinal.”

Crafted by the Holy Spirit

The ongoing synod unfolds under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. With two phases completed the diocesan phase focused on gathering insights from local dioceses, and the continental phase fostering dialogue among bishops – the synod now enters its crucial third and final universal phase. This stage underscores the collaborative journey of discovery, propelled by the essence of the Holy Spirit’s direction. Currently, the first session of the third and final universal phase is in progress, emphasizing collaborative exploration, attentive listening, and discernment with the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

---

           Emmanuel Akilan SJ

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Why is synodality making a buzz everywhere? Recently a curious child asked, “Brother, what is this synodality?” When I explained that synodality meant ‘come let us journey together,’ the child promptly asked, “Brother, weren’t we journeying together these past years?” I replied, affirming that while we were, there’s always a way to make our journey more fruitful.  I stressed its threefold purpose: communion, participation, and mission. Yet, I felt my explanation fell short.

Is understanding synodality solely for the educated? Is it just theological jargon? What does “journeying together” truly mean? These thoughts haunted me until I revisited the parish on Sunday. Praying fervently to Mother Mary, I hoped to evade the child’s questions. Fortunately, the boy was absent that Sunday. Walking back to the community after catechism class, my mind raced, and suddenly, a simple realization struck me. Synodality isn’t exclusive to humans; even animals, even insects, follow it.

The term ‘Synodality’ might be a new term but the concept is old. During the time of Mahatma Gandhi, he encouraged all Indians to come under the banner of Non-violence. He was not their superior, not their master in any way. He became one among them though he was the one who inspired all others. Gandhiji gave what he possessed. He asked everyone to do the same: to give what they have. His concept garnered fruit, many people from overseas like Nelson Mandela embraced his ideology in order to earn freedom for their country. The church teaches us the same: to journey together as a united family, to share what we have with others and to create a synodal church that walks, talks and listens just like the early Christian Church (Acts 2: 43- 47).

---

Novice Jackson SJ

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

October Sky (1999)

Director – Joe Johnston

Cast:   Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Chris Owen, Laura Dern, Natalie Canerday, William Lee Scott.

“October Sky” (1999), directed by Joe Johnston, is an adaptation of the memoir by NASA Rocket engineer Homer Hickam. Set in a West Virginia coal mining town, the film follows Homer’s journey as he defies societal expectations to pursue his dream of building rockets inspired by the launch of Sputnik. Despite initial skepticism from his family and peers, he forms the “Rocket Boys” team, which includes his friend Quentin, the Math Geek.  The supportive science teacher, Miss Riley strongly endorsed the aspirations of the Rocket Boys. Encountering multiple obstacles, including failed launches, a mine accident, and false accusations leading to his arrest, Homer faces significant challenges. However, with perseverance and the encouragement of Miss Riley, he eventually finds success, representing his school at the National Science Fair. With the support of his initially disapproving father, Homer achieves a notable triumph, earning the respect of his idol, Verner von Braun. The film concludes with a heartwarming reconciliation between Homer and his father, culminating in a touching tribute to Miss Riley through the launch of the aptly named rocket “Miss Riley.”

Lincoln (2012)

Director – Steven Spielberg

Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Hal Holbrook, James Spader, David Strathairn, Jared Harris.

Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” (2012) immerses viewers in the poignant final four months of Abraham Lincoln’s life, skillfully capturing the tumultuous backdrop of the American Civil War. Based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s “Team of Rivals: the Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” the film masterfully portrays Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to the passage of the 13th Amendment, which would abolish slavery in the United States. As the war rages on, Lincoln grapples with the daunting task of navigating the political landscape to ensure the amendment’s success before the war’s conclusion. Amidst political turmoil and familial challenges, including his wife’s fears for their son’s safety in the war, Lincoln meticulously maneuvers through the intricacies of the Republican Party and engages in strategic negotiations with hesitant Democrats, offering political incentives in exchange for their crucial support. The film meticulously highlights Lincoln’s unwavering determination and political acumen, showcasing his efforts to unite a divided nation and cement his legacy as a proponent of human dignity and equality. However, the narrative takes a somber turn as Lincoln’s life is tragically cut short when he is assassinated at Ford’s Theatre, leaving an indelible mark on American history and inspiring generations to come.

---

Prof. Gigy Joseph

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

Mission is a sharing of what discipleship of Jesus means and helping people live that out in their everyday life. It is not so much a mission on Jesus as a mission of Jesus; it has to do more with dying like Christ than for Christ. It is a witnessing to what Jesus preached and stood for, namely the Reign of God. Disciples follow the footsteps of Jesus in his life, preaching, and death. It is as simple as that, but with enormous consequences for our present-day world and society, and for ourselves personally.
Mission is Right Here
This understanding and approach to mission breaks the stereotype of mission on territorial basis – as if some lands are mission countries and others mission sending countries. Mission should be pursued in every corner of the globe each with distinct focus and emphasis, dictated by the local context and socio-political conditions. Mission is not distant; it’s right here, around us, within our immediate communities and neighbourhood. Way back in 1943, a French priest, L’ Abbé Henri Godin startled the Christian world with his booklet “France, pays de mission?” – France a mission country. Today, increasingly, we understand that every nation is a mission nation.
Mission encompasses people, society, nature and environment. Vatican II provides a document, “Ad Gentes,” explicitly addressing mission. However, the true mission document of Vatican II is “Gaudium et Spes,” delving deeply into the Church’s presence and engagement in the modern world. It offers inspiration for living out Jesus’ teachings in the political, social, cultural, and economic spheres we encounter daily, either directly or indirectly. Pope Paul VI’s “Evangelii Nuntiandi” – a mission document – surpassed earlier approaches to evangelization by intimately connecting it to the social message of the Gospel and the Church’s social teachings. Ultimately, evangelization should bring about a transformation from within, permeating the various layers of human life (EN 18).

---

Fr Dr Felix Wilfred

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Creation is a precious gift, and each of us has the duty to cherish and protect it. Fr. Luke Rodrigues, a Jesuit, embraced this idea wholeheartedly, devoting his life to serving both God and people. In this insightful interview with Janina Gomes, we delve into Fr. Luke’s deep connection with Ignatian spirituality and his profound love for the natural world.

1. Tell us something about your early years and how you felt called to be a Jesuit.

In the 1970s and 80s, social life centered around the Church and we were in close contact with different priests in the school and parish.   Our parish and school were run by the Jesuits and many of us grew to admire and respect them.  Their example fueled in me the desire to imitate their way of life and this gradually led me to enter the Society of Jesus.  Having said that, it must be mentioned that both my brothers (Fr Savio and Bishop John) joined the Diocesan Clergy!  God works in strange ways indeed.

2. From the very start you were already engaged with environmental issues, teaching Environmental Education as a Teacher Educator. How did you learn to invest so much of your time in ecological issues?

The Bandra that we grew up in still had a number of fields, ponds and open areas.  Climbing trees, plucking fruit, catching fish and doing some gardening – all of these were an integral part of our childhood and youth. This love for nature has shaped my inner being and I always feel a deep urge to pass on this passion to others.  With the disappearance of the familiar fields and ponds, I felt a greater urgency to be involved in caring for creation.   Nature has been a precious part of my life and it would be a crying shame if youth/children are deprived of this gift.

3. As a teacher educator you combined theory with practice, taking teacher trainees for rural camps and nature treks. Did those trips help your students become more interested in ecological issues?

It would be hard to quantify the impact in terms of numbers and intensity. What I know for sure is that the students enjoyed the treks and were delighted to spend time in nature.  I would emphasize the sacredness of creation and invite them to explore how they could experience God in nature.  I am not in touch with many of the students now but the few who have met me always recall those experiences and mention how they still enjoy being in nature.  It is my belief that we need to first fall in love with nature and then we will surely do all that is necessary to protect her.  The purpose of those treks was to help students be gripped by the wonder and mystery of creation.  Hopefully, this has been achieved to some extent.

4. As a Jesuit, one of your fortes has been teaching Ignatian Spirituality to the Laity, first in Byculla for 5 years and then in Rome for 7 years. How relevant is Ignatian Spirituality to the modern world?

The chief characteristic of Ignatian Spirituality is its emphasis on ‘Finding God in all things’.  It affirms that the Divine Presence is everywhere and we can experience this presence at all times and in all situations.  This is a spirituality of daily life and is therefore relevant at all times, but particularly now when we seem to have lost a sense of the Sacred.  Discernment, another key feature of Ignatian Spirituality, is the spiritual art of choosing whatever leads me closer to God.  This is extremely helpful today when we are faced with multiple options and need guidance to make the right choices.

5. You have consistently offered Eco recollections and Eco retreats over the years. To whom were these retreats given and did the participants gain a deeper understanding of the connection between Christian faith and ecology?

Retreats of six and seven days have been offered mainly to priests and religious.  Many lay persons have participated in three-day eco retreats and still more in half-day recollections.  Several of these participants have kept in touch and mention how some specific input or prayer exercise has changed their perspective or behavior.  Praying with nature has become a part of their prayer life.  Yes, I do believe that many of them have come to a personal realization that caring for creation is an integral part of our Christian faith.

6. You were also Assistant to the Jesuit Provincial for 4 years. Did you have a role to play in the formation of Jesuits too?

Prior to this role, I had a stint as Province Coordinator for Formation. It was a privilege to accompany our young men as they journey through Religious Life.  I have also been taking classes for our Juniors in Homiletics, World History and Eco Spirituality and have offered spiritual direction for a few of them.   It’s good to be in touch with those in formation. It helps us stay young and we learn so much from them!

7. Your present assignment is to head the Archdiocesan Office for Environment ( AOE). You said you are striving to make Mumbai a Laudato Si diocese.

Well, we are a whole team working towards this goal and much credit goes to Bishop Allwyn D’Silva who has spearheaded the ecological efforts in the Archdiocese (and across the country as well).  In 2018, Cardinal Oswald Gracias issued a call to make Mumbai a Green Diocese and entrusted this to Bishop Allwyn and the AOE.   Later, the Vatican launched a seven-year plan called the Laudato Si’ Action Platform and we have become active participants of this program since 2022.  This platform invites us to work on Seven Different Goals, all related to Integral Ecology.  These goals are achieved through a number of activities such as promoting renewable energy, waste management, water harvesting, educational sessions, eco prayer services, upholding the rights of the poor, lobbying with government authorities, adopting a simple lifestyle, etc.

8. You say your goal is to build up model green parishes, one per deanery and that they in turn would animate other parishes in the deanery. Is this an achievable goal?

Yes, it is an achievable goal, but it involves a lot of planning and commitment.  We took the parish as our unit for engagement and realized that it would have been unrealistic to try and reach all parishes in the Archdiocese.  Hence, we selected one parish per Deanery and worked with the teams there.  For this academic year, we have selected a second parish from each Deanery and will now engage with the Eco Cells of these parishes.  In this way, we hope to create a critical mass of interested parishioners who can take forward this mission at the parish and deanery levels.  Different parishes will show varying degrees of competence and commitment, and we do not want them to be competing with each other to see who is doing a better job.  Our desire is that parishes set their own markers for growth, examining where they are now and where they would like to be after three years and then seven years.

9. You train eco ambassadors. What role do these eco ambassadors play?

The AOE organizes a Certificate Course for Eco Ambassadors – the fifth batch will start this October.  Participants receive a theoretical framework about ecological issues and become familiar with the Church’s teachings in this area.  They also work on implementing a practical project in their parish or housing society and are encouraged to link up with active NGOs in their locality.  These Eco Ambassadors are expected to initiate and sustain some activities related to Laudato Si’s goals.  I am glad to note that several of our Ambassadors have taken the lead in setting up or re-vitalizing Care for Creation groups in their parishes.  They continue to engage with the AOE and even keep pushing us to expand our services!

10. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Care for Creation is today no longer optional for a Christian but is rather an integral part of living out our faith commitment.  The Lord who has given us the gift of Creation also invites us to be faithful stewards of this gift.  May the Holy Spirit continue to inspire many young men and women to commit themselves fully to the ecological mission of the Church.

---

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

 The world finds itself engulfed in the season of war, where pain, loss, and grief have become all too familiar. A harrowing sense of confusion looms over nations, worsened by the proliferation of hatred and violence, often perpetuated by leaders whose messages are blindly embraced by the masses. It is undeniably a challenging stage for humanity. In the face of such global turmoil, it has become increasingly vital for us to reevaluate the direction of our intentions and actions.

The Church, on the other hand, is convening a unique synod, one that marks a profound departure from the old paradigms and embraces a new trajectory.  This Synod transcends the ordinary, drawing its essence from the diversity of the human spirit. It champions a culture of profound and respectful listening, where the pulsating heartbeats of various narratives weave together in a symphony of shared experiences. Here, the compass points towards a new trajectory, one that begins from the roots, from the everyday stories and struggles of people. It is a journey of empathy and understanding, where dialogue becomes the bridge and communication the universal language. In this space, listening takes on a trans-formative power, carrying echoes of ancient wisdom and the whispers of contemporary aspirations. It is a place where the gentle breeze of the spirit dances with the fervor of Pentecost, stirring hearts, and igniting hope. As one of the participants of the Synod articulates, “It’s not just about hearing; it is about truly feeling the pulse of humanity, recognizing the shared threads that bind us all.” As the stories unfurl and blend, a tapestry of unity is woven, celebrating the richness of our collective journey. This Synod is a testament to the profound beauty found in the harmonious resonance of diverse voices, echoing the essence of a Church longing to be united in compassion and care.

The focal point of this edition of Magnet is the Global Compact on Education (GCE), an initiative set forth by the visionary leadership of Pope Francis. The essence of this global compact lies in the creation of a culture steeped in care, respect, peace, meaningful relationships, and above all, trust.

The first Cover story by Fr Arnald Mahesh gives us a summary of the Global Compact with the seven commitments significant for this trans-formative endeavor. Fr Binny, reflects on the convergences between the Global compact and the New National Education Policy (NEP 2020) recognizing the shared responsibilities and aspirations that bind us as a  community committed to nurturing others. Sch Denver offers us a profound reflection on the role of teachers and educators as catalysts for profound societal transformation.  In addition to the excellent and meaningful articles by our regular writers, there are reflections by two of our young scholastics on the ongoing Synod.

The month of November is also a month of memory, especially of our loved ones and those gone before us, who contributed to creating a culture of care. It is essential that we contemplate on how we can each contribute to building harmony and care in our own contexts.

Firstly, we must collectively strive to lessen hate speech, recognizing the toxic implications of divisive rhetoric on the fabric of our societies. Secondly, a conscious effort to decrease negativity in our thoughts, words, and deeds is crucial to cultivating an environment of empathy and understanding. Deliberately choosing a positive outlook can serve as a powerful catalyst for fostering an atmosphere of hope and reconciliation. Furthermore, we must actively seek to collaborate with like-minded groups dedicated to the pursuit of harmony, recognizing that collective efforts are indispensable in effecting meaningful change. Finally, reaching out to others in our communities, extending a hand of empathy and compassion, can serve as a cornerstone for building bridges across societal divides.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed writers for their unwavering commitment and the exceptional quality of their contributions. We also express our profound gratitude to the dedicated editorial team whose tireless efforts have culminated in the creation of this insightful issue. Most importantly, we extend our gratitude to our readers, whose engagement and commitment to creating a better world are the true driving forces behind the spirit of this publication. Let us, as a community, seize this opportunity to heed the call for creating a culture of care and harmony, embracing the values of respect, peace, and trust espoused by the Global Compact on Education. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future for generations to come.

---

Pushpa Joseph

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

It was the 14th of November, Children’s Day. Laughter echoed through the air, mixing with the youthful enthusiasm of the young and the old. Yet, a midst the festivities, there was one boy who sought to carve out a different adventure. Pratul, a spirited 10th grader, envisioned a thrill beyond the ordinary. Along with his three very close companions, he devised a daring plan – a ride under the moonlight on a borrowed motorcycle from a friend. As the clock struck 8:00 p.m., each of the four took turns manoeuvring the bike along the dimly lit road. Despite Pratul’s admission that he lacked the skill to handle the motorcycle, he ventured forward with reckless courage. Suddenly, an unsuspecting herd of cattle obstructed their path, and the bike tumbled along with its riders, scattering them in all directions.

By 10:00 p.m., news of a dreadful accident involving four students reached the Community. Three of them were rushed to the nearby hospital, while Pratul was immediately transported to the Medical College, his fate hanging precariously in the balance.

---

Sr Mariella CTC

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Participating in the art therapy program organized by Conference of Religious India, Delhi, guided by the insightful Br. Mani Karott, was an immense privilege. Engaging in the soul-healing process of free painting, I embarked on a journey to unearth the hidden pearls within myself. Each day’s activities seamlessly intertwined, leading me into the depths of my own vibrant and intricate inner world. Exploring the significance of colors, symbols, and numbers, I gained a profound understanding of my subconscious self. I was astonished to unravel the true meaning behind a recurring dream that had significantly influenced my life and relationships with others. Moreover, a startling realization of my fear of water surfaced during the course, prompting a deeper introspection into my psyche. The entire experience felt like a sacred and joyful pilgrimage towards self-liberation and inner peace. – Sr. Paska SCN, Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.

Fifteen enthusiastic women religious, were part of an Art Therapy Workshop organized by Sr Elsa Muttathu and the Team at CRI House, Delhi from October 15^th to 21^st, 2023. Under the thoughtful direction of Br. Mani Karott, the Art Therapy Workshop was meticulously designed to serve several fundamental objectives. Firstly, it sought to provide a nurturing environment for the participants to explore the profound connection between artistic expression and emotional well-being. Throughout the workshop, they were encouraged to delve into the therapeutic realm of art as a means to explore and process their innermost emotions and experiences.

The journey commenced with a session dedicated to free painting, a process that encouraged participants to unleash their creativity without constraints. As vibrant hues graced the canvases, the participants found themselves delving into the realms of nostalgia, joyously reliving the cherished moments of their childhoods. Through the strokes of their brushes and the melding of colors, they discovered a poignant avenue for reconnecting with their inner child and fostering a renewed sense of vitality and joy.

The workshop also featured an engaging clay work segment, where participants were invited to mold and sculpt their own unique images. As the malleable clay took shape under their deft hands, each individual found a profound sense of empowerment in bringing their inner visions to tangible fruition. This hands-on experience not only served as a form of self-expression but also became a powerful metaphor for the trans-formative power of shaping one’s own narrative and identity.

A particularly poignant session revolved around the creation of individual pottery. Despite receiving uniform instructions, the resulting pots exhibited a mesmerizing array of shapes, sizes, and designs. Through this exercise, participants were reminded of the inherent beauty and diversity that define human existence. Each pot served as a poignant symbol of the uniqueness that resides within every individual, beautifully mirroring the idea that, just as pots are molded uniquely by their creators, every person is a distinctive masterpiece in the eyes of a higher power.

The Art Therapy Workshop at the National CRI House in Delhi served not only as a platform for artistic exploration but also as a trans-formative journey toward self-discovery and emotional healing. Through the medium of art, participants found solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of self-awareness, forging connections that transcended the boundaries of language and culture. Sr Maggie Allesu DHM, describes it as “an incredible journey of uncovering the beautiful layers within me.”

The workshop followed a progressive inner journey, from the child within to the inner self, deep self, shadows and the Cosmic self.  Each of these steps in the journey was represented by an artistic symbol.  For Sr Sophie Gomes, SJC “the free painting moment was so freeing that I started a joyous journey into my self.  As I moved deeper and floated with the colours of the mandala it took me deeper.  Then came the door making/painting which helped me understand my shadows and led to a holistic embrace of self.”

“Making my inner shield, was a captivating time for me,” says Sr Sandhya Jees, FCC.  We need to keep discovering the inner talents and gifts God has blessed us with.  As I counted my qualities one by one and laid them in front of my eyes, I saw myself in a new way.  I was astonished. Is this me, I asked with delight.  It was truly a time when I learnt about myself in a new way and connected with myself in a different way.”

Mandalas, with their intricate crisscross patterns and vibrant colors, embody the essence of divine life within. Sr. Rose Mary, SJC, expressed that as she delicately colored the mandala, it drew her into the depths of her being. “Peering into the kaleidoscope of hues within the mandala,” she recounted, “I sensed the presence of the radiant divine light. It was then I realized that the illuminating God resides profoundly within, guiding me tenderly in an all-encompassing embrace.”

“The art therapy workshop was trans-formative, making me feel inspired and creative. Exploring the theme of ‘Who am I?’ over a week, I painted my shadow, inner self, shield, and night dreams. It was a soothing experience, nurturing the child within. Crafting a clay pot, I realized how every experience shapes my life. The inner shield reminded me of the protection gifted by God. The mandala taught me that even darkness can nurture, if accepted. I am indeed grateful to therapist Bro. Mani Karott and Sr. Elsa Muttathu, National Secretary, for this colourful journey.” – Sr Panimaya Manohari, FMM

Sr. Seena, CTC found herself embracing her inner child, reveling in moments of carefree play and self-discovery.  She underwent a trans-formative process, delving into the depths of her being and forging new connections with the tapestry of life that enveloped her. When prompted to encapsulate their experiences in a single word, the participants’ responses ranged from ‘vibrant’ and ‘energizing’ to ‘connected’ in a fresh way to both themselves and the world around them. However, despite their diverse paths, a common thread emerged: Each individual experienced a profound sense of joy and gratitude as they delved into the depths of their inner selves.

In conclusion, the art therapy workshop served as a catalyst for fostering a deeper understanding of self and a renewed connection with the world. It highlighted the trans-formative power of creative expression in unlocking inner joy and gratitude, demonstrating the profound impact of self-exploration on one’s overall well-being.

---

Sr Ida, CTC

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

Her name is going to figure in the history of the Catholic Church. Years from now, they will say she was the first woman to vote in a Bishops Synod. She is a French nun, called Nathalie Becquart.

Born in Fontainebleau, France in 1969, Nathalie completed her graduate degree in Paris in 1992. She volunteered to do social work in Lebanon for a year. In 1995, when she was 26, she chose to become a Sister in the Congregation of Xavières, an order that practices Ignatian spirituality. She studied philosophy and theology at the Jesuit-run Centre Sèvres in Paris and sociology at the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences.

Nathalie has a rich experience of working with youth. She started working for the Ignatian Youth Network, which is now called the Magis Network. “In France we collaborate a lot with the Jesuits. I have studied with the Jesuits and worked with them. I have many friends among them,” she said in an interview.

---

M.A. Joe Antony, SJ

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … And It’s All Small Stuff 1996)

-Richard Carlson

“Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … And It’s All Small Stuff” (1996) by Richard Carlson presents 88 concise reflections, guiding readers on how to cultivate a positive attitude towards life’s inevitable challenges. The book encourages us to adopt a calmer approach, directing our focus away from trivial concerns. Carlson’s insights stem from his personal experiences and the wisdom of great minds like Pascal. He stresses the importance of controlling our thoughts and reactions in the midst of life’s frantic pace. Carlson encourages introspection, urging readers to envision themselves at their own funerals, prompting essential changes while there is still time. He emphasizes the significance of empathy, highlighting the realness of others’ struggles, and how a compassionate attitude can bring inner peace. The book underscores the value of effective communication, advocating for active listening and understanding others’ perspectives without interrupting. Carlson promotes finding joy in ordinary moments, nurturing the body and soul, managing finances, and seizing the present moment, given the uncertainty of life.

I Am a Christian: Authentic Accounts of Christian Martyrdom and Persecution from the Ancient Sources (2018) – Anthony P. Schiavo, Jr.

“I Am a Christian: Authentic Accounts of Christian Martyrdom and Persecution from the Ancient Sources” (2018) by Anthony P. Schiavo, Jr. counters modern skepticism toward Christianity by providing a well-researched historical account of the faith’s origins, focusing on early Church martyrs. The book draws on authentic sources, including eyewitness testimonies, legal proceedings, and historical records, shedding light on the trials and triumphs of early Christians in the Roman Empire. It highlights the steadfastness of these martyrs in the face of brutal persecution, as well as the profound impact of their unwavering faith on their persecutors. Moreover, it poignantly illustrates instances where the unyielding faith of these martyrs had a profound impact on their persecutors, often leading to conversions and the eventual spread of Christianity. Beyond its historical significance, “I Am a Christian” resonates as a testament to the enduring strength of faith, providing contemporary readers with a profound appreciation of the historical foundations and enduring resilience of the Christian tradition.

---

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe