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The Miracle of Medjugorje (1995) Run time: 105 mts.

Director- Jakov Sedlar

Cast- Martin Sheen, Michael York, Morgan Fairchild, Paul Guilfoyle, George Coe, Ray Girardin

            The movie tells the story of the Marian apparitions in Medjugorje, a small village in Yugoslavia, now Bosnia and Herzegovina, in 1981. The story begins with the death of the Communist dictator, Josip Tito, and the subsequent rise of the Communist regime’s suspicion and persecution of the Catholic Church in Yugoslavia. Against this backdrop, six young Croatians report that the Virgin Mary has appeared to them on a nearby hill, and they are encouraged by Father Jozo Zovko, the vicar of the Cathedral of Mary, to continue their devotions. As the news of the apparitions spreads, a growing number of pilgrims flock to the village, prompting the Communist authorities to become increasingly concerned. The Secretary of the Communist regime, Miodrag Dobrović, condemns the visions and attempts to ban prayers outside the cathedral and force Father Jozo to stop encouraging the pilgrimages. Despite threats and harassment, Father Jozo refuses to comply with the regime’s demands, and continues to lead the faithful in prayer and worship. The situation intensifies when Father Jozo is arrested on false charges and brutally tortured. After a sham trial, he is sentenced to death by a firing squad. Despite the trauma of Father Jozo’s imprisonment and the regime’s persecution of the Catholic Church, the apparitions continue to inspire hope and faith among the faithful in Medjugorje. After the fall of the Communist regime in Yugoslavia, Father Jozo is released from prison and welcomed back to the community. Today, Medjugorje is a major center of Marian pilgrimage, drawing over a million visitors each year. “Apparition Hill” is a powerful and inspiring film that reminds us of the enduring power of faith in the face of oppression and persecution.

The Swimmers (2022) ‧  runtime: 134mts

Director: Sally El Hosaini

Cast: Nathalie Issa , Manal Issa, Ahmed Malek, Matthias Schweighöfer James Krishna Floyd, Kinda Aloush,… Nahel Tzegai,  Dritan Kastrati          

This film depicts the incredible true story of Olympic swimmer Yusra Mardini and her sister Sara, who gained international attention at the 2016 Rio Olympics by standing up for refugees. The movie sheds light on the struggles faced by countless refugees from war-torn Middle Eastern and African countries, who are trying to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of years of conflict and revolution. Yusra and Sara were born into a family of five near Damascus, and their father, a former swimmer with Olympic aspirations, trained them to follow in his footsteps. However, their dreams were shattered when their home was destroyed in a Russian bombing in 2015. With their father’s encouragement, the two sisters and their cousin Nizar joined a group of asylum seekers, leaving their parents and younger sister behind in Syria. They were tricked by a human trafficker into taking a dangerous journey on a leaky rubber boat, overloaded with passengers, including a nursing mother with her baby and a young boy. The boat’s motor died, leaving them stranded in the Aegean Sea. The sisters used their swimming skills to help pull the boat to safety on the island of Lesbos. After landing on Lesbos, the sisters faced xenophobia and exploitation by a trafficker who took their money. They were smuggled into Hungary, where they had to walk long distances and avoid the police before finally reaching Germany. There, they were placed in a cramped refugee camp, but eventually found a sympathetic German Olympic coach who trained Yusra for the Rio Olympics. She went on to compete as a member of the Refugee Olympic Athletes Team (ROT), in the 100m butterfly stroke. Today, Yusra works as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, while Sara volunteers as a relief worker helping other asylum seekers in Greece. The film is a testament to the bravery and resilience of refugees who have faced enormous challenges in their quest for a better life.

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The Word In and Out of Season: Homilies for Preachers, Reflections for Seekers Paperback (2000)

-William J. Bausch

“The Word In and Out of Season” is a book of 60 homilies by Rev. William J. Bausch, a former parish priest of the diocese of Trenton, New Jersey. The homilies are organized according to the liturgical seasons of the Church, covering Advent and Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost, as well as other feasts and celebrations. There are also sections on parables and lessons from the Scriptures. The book is aimed at two audiences: preachers looking for inspiration or guidance, and the general public seeking spiritual sustenance through the liturgical year. The title is derived from Proverbs, which states, “A word spoken in due season, how good it is!” Bausch believes that the mysteries of Redemption take on the coloring of the seasons, and the saving Word must be expounded and proclaimed accordingly. The structure of the book reflects this idea, moving from season to season, feast to feast, and parable to lesson. At the start of each homily, the relevant scripture text is cited. Bausch’s homilies often highlight deep ideas within the Biblical passages that may be missed due to familiarity.  He illustrates his points with historical details, personal anecdotes, and contemporary references, making the homilies engaging and relevant. The homilies are also opportunities for Bausch to address contemporary life situations, concerns, and issues. Although the examples are often drawn from an American cultural environment, they are relevant to a global audience and invite deep reflection. Overall, “The Word In and Out of Season” is a rich collection of homilies that guide readers through the liturgical year while offering insights into the deeper meanings of the Biblical texts. Bausch’s approach is accessible, engaging, and thought-provoking, making the book a valuable resource for preachers and laypeople alike.

Conversion: The Spiritual Journey of a Twentieth Century Pilgrim

Malcolm Muggeridge  (2005)

“Conversion: The Spiritual Journey of a Twentieth Century Pilgrim” is the fascinating account of Malcolm Muggeridge’s journey from agnostic liberal to Catholic convert. Muggeridge was a highly respected journalist and author, known for his wit, humor, and incisive intellect. He worked in India and Egypt, reported for leading British newspapers, served in British Intelligence during World War II, and interviewed famous personalities across the globe. His encounter with Mother Theresa and Alexander Solzhenitsyn played a significant role in his conversion. Muggeridge grew increasingly critical of the excesses and empty ideals of the cultural, political, and social changes of the 20^th  century. Muggeridge’s account of his spiritual journey is reminiscent of St. Augustine’s Confessions. Like Bunyan’s Pilgrim, he fell into the Slough of Despond, locked up in Doubting Castle, and terrified at passing through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. He confessed that he had always been aware of another dimension beyond the material world and that earthly life could not be the end. This awareness conflicted with his aspirations for material success and fame. Muggeridge describes his conversion as a sense of homecoming, of picking up the threads of a lost life. He likens it to falling in love, with no standard procedure or fixed time. Muggeridge’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and the profound impact that encounters with holy people can have on our lives. Muggeridge’s writing is a mix of humor, satire, and profound insight, and his journey to faith is a testament to the transformative power of grace. This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in spiritual journeys, the power of encounters with holy people, and the limitations of secular worldviews.

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The Resurrection of Jesus is an event that has transcended time and continues to inspire and transform individuals around the world. It is more than just a historical event, but a powerful testament to the transformative power that exists within each and every one of us. The Resurrection serves as a reminder that every moment, every interaction, every positive thought and deed, and every act of love for the poor and marginalized has the potential to be imbued with a sacred, otherworldly quality.

Jesus himself possessed an almost magical ability to inspire and uplift others. He was driven by a deep-seated love and compassion for all those he encountered, and he went above and beyond to comfort and aid those in need, even when it meant going against the norms of society or risking his own safety.

What made Jesus so special was his constant reaching out to something beyond the mundane and ordinary, a recognition of the untapped potential within every person and every situation. It is this potential that he sought to unearth and uncover in those around him, and that we too are called to seek out and nurture in ourselves and others.

As theologian N. T. Wright so eloquently states, the Resurrection serves as a reminder that our present bodily existence is not meaningless, but rather holds great significance in light of the future God has in store for us. Every action we take in the here and now, whether it be creating art, caring for the sick, advocating for justice, or simply loving our neighbors as ourselves, has the potential to ripple out into eternity. As people of faith, we are called to keep the miracle of life alive in our hearts and in the world around us, to be constantly amazed and awed by the transformative power of the Resurrection. In a world that often feels dark and despairing, we are called to be beacons of hope and love, reaching out to those in need and shining a light on the divine potential within all things.

The articles featured in this edition of Magnet serve as a powerful testimony to the continuing significance and relevance of the Resurrection in our world today. They remind us that we are never alone, and that we always have access to the transformative power of love and compassion. The most amazing news of the Christian gospel is that the magnificent Creator of the universe has taken action through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection to eliminate every barrier between us and himself, allowing us to experience everlasting joy in beholding and relishing his boundless beauty. This message of hope conveyed in this issue of Magnet serves as a reminder that even in the bleakest moments of our lives, there is always the potential for redemption and transformation. May we draw inspiration and encouragement from these stories and venture forth into the world with renewed optimism and direction, seeking the miraculous in all aspects of life.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to the amazing team of writers who, with their unwavering commitment, passion for spreading knowledge, and timely submissions of articles, make every issue of Magnet possible. Your dedication and hard work have made Magnet a reliable source of information and inspiration for countless readers.

I am also grateful to our readers, who engage with Magnet’s content and share their feedback through messages, phone calls, and letters to the editor. Your support and encouragement motivate us to continue our work, and your words bear testimony to the transformative power of the written word.

I extend my thanks to the wonderful team at CRI House, Delhi, and the members of the editorial board who collaborate tirelessly to ensure that Magnet is published within the prescribed time. Your efforts and collaboration are critical in maintaining the quality and relevance of Magnet’s content.

Above all, I express my appreciation to each one of you who collaborates with us, in your unique way, to bear testimony to the power of the Resurrection in our world. Let us continue to be instruments of the Resurrection, spreading love, hope, and joy to everyone we encounter. Together, as one body, we can make a positive impact on our world and contribute to making it a better place for all.

May the timeless peace and unending joy of the Resurrection be with each and every one of you.

Pushpa Joseph

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“Re-discover the feminine aspects of your religious traditions, and show how they contribute to a culture of Encounter” – Pope Francis.

Clare of Assisi – the Power of Feminine Encounters

To me, Clare of Assisi, the founder of the order of Poor Clares, stands out as an embodiment of the Power of feminine encounters.  Her decision to reject a life of wealth and privilege in favor of a life of poverty and service is a remarkable example of her commitment to the power in femininity. At a time when women were expected to marry and produce heirs to secure family wealth and status, Clare’s refusal to be married off with a large sum of money was a radical departure from the norm. Instead, Clare chose a life of poverty and service, inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. This decision was not only a rejection of societal expectations but also a powerful assertion of her own agency and autonomy. By choosing to follow her own path, Clare was able to forge a deep sense of connection with God and with others who shared her vision of a life dedicated to service and humility. Clare’s example inspired many other women to follow in her footsteps. Her refusal to be defined by societal norms and her commitment to a life of service and humility is a testament to the power of feminine encounters, and to the ability of women to shape their own destinies and make a profound impact on the world around them.

Pushpa Joseph

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“Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate” – John F. Kennedy.

Women empowerment is the word that we have been using consistently in the month of March every year. The market is full of mugs and art pieces and T-shirts with the word women empowerment printed on it. For many organisations it is a very good tag line to showcase their brand as sensitive and forward thinking but essentially do these exercises make any difference?   According to a survey by the staffing firm Randstad in the US, sixty percent of women have never negotiated with an employer over their salary. Another survey points out that seventy seven percent of women accept their first salary with zero negotiation. Women who negotiate are perceived with disdain as demanding and controlling rather than being appreciated for their confidence. On the other hand the comparatively less educated or illiterate women who do manual labour are better at negotiating. The gender pay gap is relatively moderate among the blue collar category.

Negotiation is a key skill in business and career success. Good negotiation skills can turn a loss into a beneficial compromise. Business schools have now incorporated  street smart negotiation instruction at a very pragmatic level in their curriculum. Negotiation skills are important not only in business or professional life but also in personal life. But then why is it that women fear negotiation and are ready to split the difference. Women, irrespective of their position in the organizational hierarchy are diffident to initiate a discussion on a higher salary package. It is the lack of knowledge of their value that makes  women apprehensive about negotiating salary and other perks. The reluctance to negotiate salary will also affect a woman’s promotional possibilities, higher standard of living and peaceful retirement plan. The fear of offending or disturbing the boss deters them at work and at home the women think twice before asking the husband to share the household chores. Usually what happens in most families is arriving at compromises based on certain prejudiced ideas of gender responsibilities. Whereas a collaborative chat will give scope for negotiation rather than a one sided surrender. Decisions should be on the basis of discussions on every action like PTA meetings, birthday parties and vacations. Succumbing to the choice of action of your spouse based on his gender or the status of the “breadwinner” is not a respectful state of affairs.

Dr Delony Manuvel Ph.D.

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The month of March is a special month for women, as we celebrate International Women’s day all over the world. When we think of this global day, our head is bombarded with thoughts of gender equality, reproductive rights, violence and abuse against women, achievements and role of women, empowerment of women and more. I would like to focus on the theme – Unleash Your Power to Empower Others, a positive outlook to remember and celebrate on 8^th March, in order to bring out the power that is within us. How can we as Religious be empowered and empower other women in our mission?

When I reflect on this topic, a scene from the Brazilian serial on Moses and Ten Commandments comes to me very vividly. This is the scene: Mariam (Sister of Aaron and Moses) looking at the suffering reality of her people plans along with her parents Amram and Jochebeth to unite the people, to rescue their faith in God that was lost. She realizes the cause of suffering and raises a clamour to God along with women, men and children. The effect of this deepest outcry, they receive a liberator, who happens to be her own brother Moses along with Aaron. Indeed, she was a prophetess of her time. She is depicted in such a way that all who watch the serial will surely wonder about the way she brings out the power of God that is within her. She was a woman who raised herself above all suffering, in order to bring liberation to her family members. She also played an important role in liberating the people of Israel. She empowered herself to empower others.

Sr. Elizabeth Rani OP

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The word Empowerment is widely being used in the Development context. Empowerment of women is a much talked about concept in civil society as well as in the Church. The civil society has enacted certain laws in this regard. The Church in India too has brought out a policy titled “Gender Policy of the Catholic Church of India.” The Gender policy of the Church of India itself is an indicator to show that the Church is actively involved in empowering women. As a male I understand the contribution of the Church in empowering the rural women as follows.

1. Almost all the dioceses in India have Social Work Centres (NGOs) by different names. Similarly many religious congregations both men and women too have ‘Social Work’ Centres (NGOs) by different names and mainly it is these Centres which are empowering the rural women in India irrespective of caste and creed.
2. Economic empowerment of women occupies the centre stage in all this work of empowerment of women. Women’s Associations by different names like Mahila Sangha, Magalir Sangam, Mahila Mandal are instrumental in effecting economic development of rural women. Small savings habits are the foundation for whatever economic development is taking place in these women’s Associations. This small savings habit and activity in the associations earned the name ‘Women Self Help Group.’ The Social Work Centres facilitate these Self Help Groups to obtain thrift funds from some Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Government organisations like NABARD and Banks for their economic activities.
3. The very fact of women coming together as a group gives them a great deal of self confidence and courage. Their involvement in all the activities of their associations like accumulating small savings, depositing in Banks, obtaining loans, taking up income generating activities instil leadership qualities in women.

K.John Don Bosco

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On March 8^th we celebrate the International Women’s Day. I remember and admire two great women who influenced my life, they are my mother and sister, who tirelessly worked for the family and others. The way they utilize their potentials, balanced life style, generosity in sharing, love for the poor and needy etc. At times I question myself; as a religious, have I imbibed this goodness of my mother and sister in my life.

Celebrating women’s day is an opportunity for us to become aware of our worth as women. We, women are blessed with various gifts and talents, inner strength to face  challenges, emotional strength to cope with the worst situations at times. Having experienced this goodness in us, what makes us degrade ourselves in front of others?

In 1965, on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Paul VI penned an address to women, summoning them to meet the challenges of the modern world: “The hour is coming, in fact has come, when the vocation of woman is being achieved in its fullness, the hour in which woman acquires in the world an influence, an effect and a power never hitherto achieved.” Yes, the hour has come indeed and the opportunities are knocking at our door, then why are we, women religious still in slumber? What is lacking in us? Why do we hesitate to stand on our own? I think we need to look back and examine our formation.

Sr Benny D’Cunha UFS

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“Women’s empowerment” has become a buzzword in social sciences. Empowerment means making someone  more capable of something. It means making a person capable socially, economically, intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, politically. It is the capacity building of  persons in the fields of science, arts, music, sports and games etc.

Women can truly experience empowerment when they have the liberty to communicate and convey their thoughts, ideas, and feelings freely. The most powerful decision-making authority lies with women when it comes to determining what is suitable or unsuitable for themselves. Women have suffered through the decades because they didn’t have any rights.  In earlier centuries, they were treated as almost non-existent. As times evolved, women started realizing their power. There on began the revolution for women empowerment.

Draupadi Murmu, the first Tribal female President of India,  First Citizen, a role model, is an empowered woman in India. We salute her  having achieved the highest honour of the most prestigious status in Indian political career from the most vulnerable section of  women in the Indian society. Republic Day Parade 2023  was unique in displaying the power of  women, “NAARI SHAKTI”   in the  fields of Indian Army, Navy, Defense and so on.

Fr Alexander Virsai Ekka SJ

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The greatest virtue of an NGO or Non Government Organization is its willingness to work in the remote areas where others are reluctant to go. Many such NGOs are run by dedicated religious or voluntary organizations whose members are ascetics or without vested interests. They do not have any political affiliations or ambitions, which make them acceptable to all. Seeing their voluntary services complimenting the govt welfare measures, govt began patronizing them through grants. This took the govt charitable works to the remote rural areas. But it also drew the attention of the politicians with vested interests as an opportunity to grab govt money for their political interests. As a result, now there are any number of NGOs with political connection even in the rural areas existing only to divert the govt money to further their political interests. This has deprived funds to those NGOs working for the genuine welfare of the poor people without vested interests or political affiliation. This made the NGOs run by the minority religious groups to look for foreign funding for their genuine charitable activities.

The govt brought all foreign funding under Foreign Contribution Regulations Act or FCRA for the first time in 1976 when the Khalistan Separatist Movement was troubling the govt misusing foreign funds. FCRA of 1976 made registration under FCRA to receive FC money in an exclusive bank account designated by the govt in any bank of NGO’s choice mandatory and banned receipt of foreign funds only for two activities: anti-national terrorist activities and activities detrimental to Indian democracy. This was fully justified; it never affected the genuine NGOs as they were never involved in any such activities. Govt too did not trouble them. Even if they violated any rule of FCRA, the only punishment envisaged in the act was the cancellation of FCRA registration that disallowed them from receiving further foreign funds. Nothing would happen to the NGO’s assets after the cancellation or surrender of FCRA registration. This punishment was fair and just and was proportional to the violation of the law.

Fr Alex Mascarenhas SJ

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