home

Mending the Line (2022): 122 minutes

Director: Joshua Caldwell

Cast: Brian Cox, Sinqua Walls, Patricia Heaton, Perry Mattfeld, Wes Studi, Irene Bedard, Tristan Thompson.

The movie explores the struggles of Colter, an American Marine dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after returning from the Afghan war. The film opens with a poignant statement: “There’s more great literature written about fly fishing than any other sport,” setting up fly fishing as a central motif. This traditional Western hobby, involving the use of artificial lures to catch fish like Salmon and Trout, becomes a crucial element of Colter’s healing journey.

Haunted by the guilt of losing his comrades and grappling with alcoholism, Colter is eager to return to the battlefield. At a veteran’s rehabilitation center, he meets Dr. Burke, who encourages him to confront his condition with a realistic perspective. Although Colter initially resists and reacts angrily to Dr. Burke’s guidance, he eventually begins to open up through his interactions with Ike, a senior veteran who frequents the center. Ike, an avid fly fisherman, becomes a mentor to Colter, introducing him to the therapeutic practice of fly fishing.

As Colter learns the art of fly fishing from Ike, he also befriends Harrison, the owner of a local tackle shop. Despite some initial friction, their bond strengthens through their shared passion.

The film also introduces Lucy, a local librarian who volunteers at the rehab center by bringing and reading books to the patients. She, too, is a wounded soul, this creates a shared understanding between her, Colter, and Ike. Each character struggles with their past traumas, but they find ways to cope with their realities. Through their collective experiences, Colter, Ike, and Lucy find ways to manage their traumas and rebuild their lives. The film ultimately highlights fly fishing as more than just a pastime; it serves as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and emotional recovery among American war veterans.

Amistad (1997): 145 minutes

Director: Steven Spielberg

Cast : Morgan Freeman, Nigel Hawthorne, Anthony Hopkins, Djimon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey, David Paymer, Pete Postlethwaite, Anna Paquin.

Spielberg’s celebrated film is based on a historical event that happened against the background of the heinous practice of slavery in the United States in the early 19^th century. It is a spectacular and dramatic story that brings to focus the horrors of human slavery and also the heroic struggles put up by conscientious individuals against it. The story opens on board the slave ship Amistad in August 1839, which was carrying hundreds of Africans from Sierra Leone captured by Portuguese slave hunters and illegally transported them to the Spanish colony of Cuba. Despite the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade in the U.S., Britain, and other European countries, it continued, with Havana as a central hub. On board were 53 Africans, including women, girls, and babies, bought by Spanish plantation owners. One of the captives, Joseph Cinque, led a revolt, killing the ship’s captain and cook. The surviving slave owners were spared under the promise of returning them to Africa. Instead, they deceived the Africans, sailing to New York where the ship was seized by American naval officers. This led to a complex legal battle in New England over the captives’ status. The case hinged on whether the Africans were descendants of slaves (and thus could be punished for murder) or were illegally brought from Africa (and thus could claim self-defense). President Martin Van Buren sought to extradite the Africans to Cuba, but Northern abolitionists, led by Lewis Tappan, defended the captives, recognizing the immorality of their situation. They enlisted an Afro-American interpreter to present the captives’ story in court. The case ultimately reached the Supreme Court, where former President John Quincy Adams, a staunch anti-slavery advocate, successfully argued on behalf of the Africans. Cinque and the remaining survivors were eventually returned to their homeland by Christian missionaries, marking a significant moment in the struggle against slavery and the fight for justice.

---

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe

There are life stories that intertwine, much like that of the two Arab physicians Saints Cosmas and Damien with their legendary acts of healing and charity; the twin half-brothers in the Greek mythology Castor and Pollux who were inseparable and often depicted together; Laurel and Hardy in comedy films who entertained us when we were children with their humour; the classic cartoon duo Tom and Jerry, Tom being the cat and Jerry the mouse, known for their endless pursuit and evasions, with their everlasting camaraderie or Bonnie and Clyde, the infamous criminals who gained notoriety during the Great Depression for their crimes across the central United States.

Such is the narrative of Fabio and Diego in Bogotá.

Diego

Diego had become a constant source of frustration for our community at the home for elderly men. Night after night, he would sneak in, sleeping in the washroom and leaving traces of marijuana behind. His shamelessness—or perhaps desperation—grew to the point where he started stealing clothes of our elderly men off the line, and this became a daily occurrence. The final straw was when our sewing machine went missing. I had had enough and reported him to the police, who quickly tracked him down, as everyone knew him as the local drug addict. After a severe beating, Diego revealed where he had hidden the sewing machine, which was found at the house of “Saint Mona,” the local bar manager. She claimed ignorance but never admitted that she had bought it from Diego for just three dollars. Eventually, Diego ended up behind bars, and I finally had some peace—at least until Fabio came into the picture.

---

Br Carmel Duca MC

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

In a landmark move, India has overhauled its criminal justice system with the introduction of three new laws: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) 2023. Effective from July 1, 2024, these laws replace the 1860 Indian Penal Code (IPC), the 1898 Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the 1872 Indian Evidence Act. They aim to modernize and streamline the criminal justice system and ensure speedy justice to the common people. The new laws feature significant changes, including renumbering and reclassification of sections. For example, murder previously covered under IPC Section 302 is now under BNS Section 101, and cheating, which was in Section 420 of the IPC, is now Section 316 in the BNS.

The Indian Penal Code (IPC), established by the British in 1860, is over a century and a half old and was influenced by English law, the Napoleonic Code, and the Louisiana Civil Code. Originally comprising 23 chapters and 511 sections, it has now been streamlined into a more concise format.
The new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 replaces the IPC with 358 sections across 20 chapters. The term “code” has been replaced with “Sanhita,” reflecting the aim to remove ambiguities and make the law clearer and more accessible. The new act eliminates outdated sections and updates terms to better align with current legal and social contexts. It also shifts from a punitive approach to a restorative one, introducing community service for certain crimes. Let’s explore what these updated Indian laws entail.

---

Adv. Sr. Mary Scaria SCJM

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Fr. Richard D’Souza SJ is a Jesuit priest and scientist at the Vatican Observatory, where he blends his deep faith with his passion for astronomy. From an early age, Richard was fascinated by the universe, a pursuit he continued alongside his vocation to the priesthood, despite personal losses. While he was in his priestly formation period, his only brother died from cerebral malaria. His parents would have liked him to come back from the seminary but allowed him to continue his journey. The loss of his brother made him only stronger in his faith and his desire to follow the Lord. After becoming a priest in Goa in 2011, he earned a doctorate in astronomy from the Max Planck Institute in Munich, Germany, and completed his post-doctoral research at the University of Michigan, USA. Now one of twelve scientists at the Vatican Observatory, Fr. Richard is known for his humility and dedication, viewing the universe as a profound testament to God’s creation. In this interview, Sr. Sonia engages with Fr. Richard to explore his unique journey and insights.

Interviewed by Sr Soniya K Chacko DC 

Could you please introduce yourself and share your vocation story, including your family background and journey with the Society of Jesus?

I am Fr. Richard D’Souza SJ from Goa, India, and I belong to the Goa Province of the Society of Jesus. Currently, I serve as a staff astronomer at the Vatican Observatory in Castel Gandolfo, Rome, and from July of this year, I also hold the position of superior of the Jesuit community at the Observatory. My journey with the Jesuits began during my time at St. Britto High School in Mapusa, Goa, where I was introduced to their way of life and felt a deep attraction to it. After completing higher secondary school, I entered the Jesuit novitiate in Belgaum, Karnataka, in 1996. I was ordained a priest in December 2011, marking over a decade of my priesthood. Regarding my family, I come from a simple background. My parents, who are currently living in Goa, worked in Kuwait but returned as refugees after the Gulf War when I was 12. I had a brother who passed away shortly after I joined the novitiate. Despite these challenges, my parents supported my vocation, and I cherish the profound influence of my Jesuit education and upbringing.

As a child, were you fascinated by the stars and the moon? When did your interest in astronomy begin, and how do you feel about your dual role as a scientist and priest?

From a young age, I was always drawn to the sciences and engineering. Although I wasn’t initially focused specifically on astronomy, my interest deepened when I joined the Jesuits. I read extensively about their work in astronomy and the sciences, and my Jesuit superiors encouraged me to specialize in astronomy during my formation. This support greatly fuelled my passion for the field.

As a scientist-priest, I find a deep sense of fulfillment in my work. While my research is my primary focus, I also help at a local Italian parish on Sundays and celebrate the Holy Mass. I’ve always enjoyed preaching and leading Mass, and after my ordination, I began offering courses on theology and scripture for the laity. Today, I see my vocation as reaching out to the scientific community, a group that the Church sometimes finds challenging to engage with. Balancing these roles allows me to connect faith and science in meaningful ways.

When did you complete your studies as a priest and as a scientist, and why did you choose to study astrophysics in Germany despite having renowned research centres in India? How did the Max Planck Institute influence your career, and what is your current research focus?

I completed most of my priestly studies in Pune, India, finishing them in 2011. For my scientific studies, I started with a master’s degree in Physics at the University of Heidelberg, Germany, before completing my priestly formation. Afterward, I pursued a PhD in astronomy at the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics in Munich.

Choosing Germany for my astrophysics studies was partly to gain experience at an esteemed foreign institution. At the time, Indian institutions were more focused on theoretical work and radio astronomy, with less emphasis on optical astronomy. The Max Planck Society, with its premier institutes in astronomy and cosmology, provided significant exposure to international research and advanced facilities. My research at these institutes, particularly on the formation and evolution of galaxies, has been deeply enriching. I focus on understanding the history of galaxies like our Milky Way, which has been a fulfilling aspect of my scientific career.

How do you balance your call to priesthood and science, and do they complement each other? How did you come to work at the Vatican Observatory, and what does your daily routine involve? How do you feel about being part of the tradition of priest-scientists?

For me, priesthood and science are deeply intertwined. My Jesuit superiors specifically encouraged me to pursue astronomy and work at the Vatican Observatory, integrating my scientific work with my religious mission. Working at the Observatory allows me to contribute to the Church’s mission of preaching the Gospel and engaging with the scientific community. As a Catholic, I believe that exploring the universe only deepens my appreciation for God’s creation, bringing me closer to the Creator.

I was approached by the Vatican Observatory during my master’s studies, which led to my training and subsequent role here. I’ve been at the Observatory in Rome for the past three years. My daily routine involves conducting astronomical research, writing papers, and presenting findings to the scientific community. I also engage in public talks to demonstrate how science and religion can harmoniously coexist. Being part of the tradition of priest-scientists is a source of pride for me. I hope to contribute meaningfully to this esteemed group and serve both the Church and the broader scientific community with dedication and integrity.

How do you relate human existence to the vast realities of the universe through your research, and how does your work at the Vatican Observatory reflect this understanding? Are there other priest-scientists working with you, and how does your faith influence your scientific work? Also, do you have any interest in space exploration? Human existence raises fundamental questions that astronomy seeks to answer: Where do we come from? Where are we going? And are we alone in the universe?

My research focuses on the origin of the universe, galaxies, stars, and planets, which ties into these existential inquiries. Understanding the future of the universe involves studying dark energy and the accelerated expansion of the cosmos, while the search for extraterrestrial life probes whether we are alone.

At the Vatican Observatory, I am part of a community of about 13 priests and brothers who work as astronomers. Our work is deeply rooted in faith, and as the Psalmist sings, “the heavens are telling the glory of God,” I find that my research, which seeks to understand the intricacies of nature, is a way of joining in that praise. The more I discover, the more I am in awe of God’s creation. While my work involves using space-based telescopes, I don’t have any plans or need to go into space myself. My focus remains on studying the universe from here on Earth, using the tools and technology available to us.

What are your contributions as a scientist to the Church and the world?

One of my key contributions to science is understanding how galaxies grow by deciphering their merger history. Galaxies increase in size not only by forming new stars but also through mergers with smaller galaxies due to gravitational forces. Reconstructing this merger history, especially for distant galaxies like the Milky Way, is complex. My research has made significant strides in determining the mass and size of the largest galaxy that merged with a parent galaxy, advancing our understanding in this area. As a Jesuit priest and scientist, I also aim to demonstrate the harmony between science and religion. I am dedicated to highlighting the Church’s rich tradition of Catholic scientists and promoting the idea that faith and science are compatible and can work together.

What is M32p, which you discovered with Eric Bell in 2018?

In 2018, along with Eric Bell, I demonstrated that the Andromeda galaxy, our nearest galactic neighbour, had merged with a galaxy about half the size of the Milky Way. The remnant of this merged galaxy is now a smaller galaxy known as M32. We named the original galaxy, which was almost entirely consumed in the process, M32p.

Father Richard, I found 23 projects listed on the Cornell website that you have been involved in. Congratulations! Could you briefly explain these projects? Are these the only projects you’ve worked on?

Thank you! The 23 projects you found on the Cornell website represent a collection of my work published over the years. Whenever we complete a project and publish a paper, we archive it in a publicly accessible repository. Throughout my career, I have participated in several astronomical projects, most of which focus on studying the accretion history of galaxies. These are not the only projects I’ve worked on, but they highlight some key areas of my research.

How do you view the Church’s stance on faith, religion, and science, especially considering its history with figures like Galileo, and how did the Vatican Observatory come to be established?

The Church has a balanced perspective on faith and science, recognizing the value of how they can work together. Over the years, various Church documents and letters from the Holy Fathers, particularly John Paul II, have highlighted the compatibility of science and faith. However, the Church has made mistakes in the past, such as in the case of Galileo and other scientific issues like evolution, where theological concerns seemed to conflict with scientific discoveries. It’s hoped that the Church has learned from these past missteps.

Despite the Galileo controversy, the Church has always had a deep interest in the sciences. Even during Galileo’s time, many Catholic priests were astronomers and scientists who made significant contributions and even engaged in debates with Galileo. Some of Galileo’s ideas were correct, while others were not, but these discussions were part of a larger tradition of scientific inquiry within the Church.

The Vatican Observatory, as it exists today, was established in 1890, but the Church’s involvement in astronomy dates back much further. For instance, Pope Gregory XIII in the 16th century tasked Church astronomers, including Jesuit mathematician and astronomer Fr. Christopher Clavius, with reforming the calendar to fix the date of Easter. The Observatory was founded partly in response to the unification of Italy, which led to the loss of papal observatories. Throughout its history, the Church has consistently supported the study of astronomy, reflecting its commitment to exploring the natural world as a way of understanding God’s creation.

As a scientist and priest, how do you reflect on the Book of Genesis in the light of your understanding of the universe, and what message would you give to today’s youth?

The Book of Genesis is rich with theological insights about God’s creation of the universe and the relationship between humankind, God, and the world. The central message is that God created the world, and nothing within creation should be worshipped as a god. Science today supports the idea that the universe began with the Big Bang—a concept first proposed by Fr. Georges Lemaître, a Belgian Catholic priest. The Big Bang theory is deeply aligned with the belief that the universe had a beginning, which implies the existence of a Creator.

To the youth of today, I would offer two pieces of advice: First, dream big, as only by dreaming big can you achieve great things. Second, don’t settle for easy answers. Life’s most important questions require deep reflection and research. Make it your mission to seek the truth, question everything, and avoid settling for ready-made answers.

Fr. Richard’s mother, Mrs. Mary Dsouza, says only a few words about her son, but they contain a world of meaning about him: “Richie was so fascinated about the universe from his childhood. He is a very humble and fervent priest. At the time of his Ordination, we felt so elevated to heavenly joy. Our first son has gone to God and we wanted Richard to be with us, but he was very firm in his call to priesthood. Today we are happy that he does great things for the Church as a priest and for the world as a scientist.”

A dedicated member of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, Sr. Soniya currently serves as a teacher in Kothagudem, Telangana. Her commitment to education and service reflects her deep dedication to her congregation and community. She can be contacted at: soniyadc88@gmail.com

---

Sr Soniya K Chacko DC 

In a world in constant flux, where uncertainty often overshadows clarity, we, as religious, are called to a profound and enduring mission. The question – “Who are we religious in a world that is ever changing?” – resonated deeply with participants at the Leadership Conference of Women Religious  in the U.S. on August 14, 2024. Their theme, “Who then shall we be?” echoes a timeless truth found in the First Book of John: While we are now children of God, what we will become is not yet known. But one certainty remains—we are called to be men and women who serve this world, a world brimming with pain yet yearning for healing. We are the nourishment for the life of the world that has so much pain and many needs. This call to service is rooted in an understanding of infinite dignity – a concept central to our faith and now illuminated by a new Vatican document on human dignity. Our mission goes beyond responding to immediate needs; it is about upholding the intrinsic worth of every individual, created in the image and likeness of God, and respecting all life, including the environment. This issue of the Magnet addresses the pressing realities of our time. From the devastating landslides in Wayanad, where lives were shattered, to the heart-wrenching tragedy of the young doctor in Kolkata whose life was violently taken, we are confronted with the plain violation of human dignity. These tragedies starkly remind us of the fragile nature of life and the urgent need for the Church to stand as a beacon of hope, tirelessly affirming the dignity that is often overlooked in moments of suffering.

Our four cover stories offer a wide-ranging exploration of this theme. The first, by Fr. Binny Mary Das, our young Moral Theologian, delves into the theological foundations of human dignity as presented in the recent Vatican document Dignitas Infinita. The article highlights the Church’s vital role in upholding the intrinsic and inviolable nature of dignity, rooted in God’s creation and love, while condemning modern violations and misconceptions. In Cover Story 2, Sr. Lini Sheeja underscores the necessity of affirming the dignity of every member within our religious communities, ensuring that each individual is both valued and respected. Drawing on the teachings of Pope Francis and Pope John Paul II, the article highlights the positive experiences of respect and acceptance, as well as the challenges of division and disrespect, and advocates practical steps to cultivate a culture of dignity, unity, and mutual respect. Sr. Ranjita Tirkey, in the third Cover Story, highlights the urgent need to uphold the dignity of migrants and refugees amidst displacement, emphasizing the challenges they face and the Church’s multifaceted response. It calls for a deeper reflection on how the Church can more effectively support and advocate for these vulnerable populations, ensuring they receive fair treatment and respect. Finally, Fr. Ricopar Royan explores the intrinsic connection between human dignity and the environment, emphasizing our responsibility to care for creation as an extension of respecting all life. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on Jesus’ teachings, it underscores the need for a harmonious relationship with nature and a commitment to preserving it for future generations.

This issue also features a moving account of the Wayanad landslides, highlighting the tireless efforts of the Franciscan fathers in bringing comfort and aid to those affected. As we prepare to celebrate Teachers’ Day on September 5th, we reflect on the pivotal role educators play in illuminating the darkness, guiding young minds with wisdom and compassion. Our regular columnists share stories of consecrated men and women whose lives are a testament to the affirmation of human dignity, especially among the poor, marginalized, and those in pain. Their witness challenges us to embody this mission in our daily lives.

As we reflect on these powerful narratives, I offer five transformative ways we can affirm the dignity of all life through our actions:

1. Foster Cultural Change: Address violence and atrocities against women and marginalized communities not just through legal means but by educating society to value each person equally. The Church has a pivotal role in this, beginning with the education of young religious men and women to embody and teach these values.
2. Embrace Radical Compassion: Move beyond surface-level empathy by immersing ourselves in the struggles of others, committing to long-term support and understanding of their pain.
3. Engage in Restorative Justice: Advocate for justice that heals and rebuilds, focusing not only on punishment but also on restoring dignity to all involved, including the environment.
4. Cultivate Inclusive Communities: Go beyond mere inclusion by actively creating spaces where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels an intrinsic sense of belonging.
5. Live Prophetic Integrity: Let our actions consistently reflect the deeper values we profess, challenging societal norms that contradict the dignity of all life.

A group of young religious women in a small village took a stand against the exploitation of local migrant workers who were denied fair wages and forced to live in inhumane conditions. Rather than just speaking out, they moved into the same harsh conditions, sharing in the workers’ daily struggles. This radical solidarity drew the community’s attention, sparking conversations and leading to legal actions that improved the workers’ conditions. More importantly, it shifted local culture towards greater respect and inclusion for these marginalized individuals. These women didn’t just advocate for dignity—they lived it.

As we journey forward together, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributes to Magnet—our writers, readers, and collaborators. We are not merely producing a magazine; we are affirming the dignity of all life, reminding the world of the preciousness of every human being. Let us continue this journey, hand in hand, as we strive to be the nourishment for the life of the world.

Pushpa Joseph

Chief Editor

---

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

On 27th July 2024, around 160 religious gathered at Navjivan Renewal Centre on St. Xavier’s School, Campus, New Delhi to study, reflect, and pray on the four documents of the Vatican Council II in view of preparing for the Jubilee 2025 as proposed by our Holy Father Pope Francis. The event, which carried significant spiritual and ecclesial importance, was followed by the Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) of the CRI Unit of North Delhi Region the next day at the same venue. Many Major Superiors of the North Region too participated in the program along with the National Secretary of the CRI; Sr Elsa Muttathu PBVM.

Insights from Vatican II Documents

The program was animated by a dedicated study team from the Jubilee 2025 Committee of the Archdiocese of Delhi, including Fr. T.J. Jose, Fr. Peter Emmanuel, Fr. Agnes Lionel, Mr. Mathew Antony, and Ms. Grace David. They presented the Vatican II documents in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that the participants could grasp the depth and relevance of these teachings. Fr. Vincent Ekka SJ, an executive member of the Delhi CRI, welcomed and introduced the speakers, setting the tone for a day of deep reflection.

---

SR DR ANITHA CHETTIAR DHM

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

The Second Vatican Council brought significant changes to the Church, and one of its key documents, Sacrosanctum Concilium, is crucial for understanding liturgical reform. It highlights that “Sacred scripture is of the greatest importance in the celebration of the Liturgy” (SC 24). This article explores the role of Sacred Scripture in the liturgy and offers recommendations for enhancing its presence in worship.

The Essential Role of Holy Scripture in the Liturgy

In the liturgy, Holy Scripture plays a foundational role, serving as the thread that weaves together the history of salvation. From the Exodus Passover, where Israel celebrates its covenant with God, to the Last Supper, where Christ establishes the new covenant, Scripture is both a memory and a living reality. It links the past with the present, guiding the faithful through the mysteries of Redemption. By intertwining the Word of God with the Church’s rituals, the Liturgy becomes a dynamic encounter with God’s saving actions, deeply nourishing the spiritual life of believers.

Scripture and the Exodus Passover

In the Old Testament, the Exodus Passover is a central event that shapes Israel’s understanding of its history and identity. The annual Passover celebration helps Israel remember its special relationship with God. Through the Passover, Israel reaffirms its role as God’s chosen people and recalls God’s acts of creation and redemption. This deep connection between Scripture and Liturgy forms a single, unified story.

---

Sr Shalini Xavier CTC

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

On 03 May 2024, while giving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the U.S., to Fr Greg Boyle, SJ, President Joe Biden said, “Your service as a Jesuit priest over four decades reminds us of the power of redemption, rehabilitation and our obligation to those who have been condemned or counted out. Thank you, Fr. Greg, for your amazing grace.”

Fr Gregory Joseph Boyle, SJ was born on 19 May 1954 in Los Angeles, U.S. After he finished his studies, he became a Jesuits and was ordained a priest in 1984. He holds Master’s degrees in English, Divinity and Sacred Theology.

At the conclusion of his theology studies, Boyle spent a year working in Bolivia. Upon his return in 1986, he was appointed pastor of Dolores Mission Church, a Jesuit parish which happened to be the poorest Catholic parish in the city of Los Angeles. The area where the parish church was located happened to be the territory of eight gangs.

You must have heard of gangs active in many cities in the U.S. The youth who join these gangs engage in selling drugs and often resort to extreme violence. Why would youth join violent gangs, instead of studying and finding a job? Fr. Greg soon found the answer to that question. Some individuals become gang members to fulfill basic needs like food and clothing, as they come from extremely poor families. Some may join a gang for protection from rival gangs or the police. Coming from broken, abusive families many simply seek a sense of family, identity, or belonging.

The time when Fr Greg was the pastor was referred to as the “decade of death” (1988 – 1998) in Los Angeles, since nearly a thousand people were killed every year from gang- related crime.

---

Fr M.A. Joe Antony, SJ

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

Have you ever prayed and felt as if your prayers weren’t answered? Did you fall on your knees, clasped your hands, prayed to God earnestly, with all your heart, perhaps also with tears and sighs and felt as if God simply didn’t hear you? Have you ever felt like you were just talking to yourself when you were praying—that God wasn’t paying attention? A lot of people think God doesn’t answer prayer because things don’t go their way.  Pope Francis says, ‘We pray, we ask, and yet sometimes our prayers seem to go unheard: what we have asked for, for ourselves or for others, is not fulfilled… We think, for example, of the heartfelt prayers we offer for our sick children, or for our friends who experience great pain. In our disappointment, we may feel that God is deaf to our pleas; we may even be tempted to stop praying.” Perhaps what we don’t realize is that God does answer our prayers, maybe he just says ‘No’, or ‘Wait’, or that he would show a better way, but we were not paying attention. Let us not lose heart. God does not forget us, He listens to us, He hears our cry, He understands us. He is interested in us. He loves us and cares for us; if it were not so, why should He have created us?

---

To read the entire article, click Subscribe

The Catholic Guide to Depression: How the Saints, the Sacraments, and Psychiatry Can Help You Break Its Grip and Find Happiness Again (2012)

Aaron Kheriaty, M D & Fr John Cihak, STD

Written by psychiatrist Aaron Kheriaty with Monsignor John Cihak, this book examines the universal problem of depression through the lens of Catholic tradition and teachings. It offers a faith-based, compassionate approach that integrates modern medical knowledge with spirituality.  Illustrated with personal stories, it addresses misunderstood aspects of depression, providing practical advice and theological reflections for healing. Kheriaty notes that depression, whether mild, moderate, or severe, is a pervasive sorrow that even strong spiritual practices may not relieve. He emphasizes that confessionals cannot cure neuroses, just as a psychiatrist’s couch cannot forgive sins. The book also covers recent advances in pharmacological and medical treatments, as well as the benefits and limitations of psychotherapy. The Catholic perspective distinguishes depression from similar states like guilt, sloth, and the darkness of sin, and from the “dark night of the soul,” a spiritual trial experienced by some saints. Healing involves recognizing the physical, psychological, behavioral, cultural, and moral factors contributing to depression, with a focus on Christian hope. The authors highlight that when pain and suffering cannot be fully alleviated, they can become redemptive when united with the sufferings of Jesus on the cross.

The book is structured into four chapters across three major sections: 1. Understanding Depression: This section covers the following topics: Types of Depression, Depression and Spiritual Life, Depression and Related Disorders, Depression and the Tragedy of Suicide 2. Overcoming Depression: This section offers solutions, including: Medication and Other Biological Treatments, Psychotherapy: Its Benefits and Limitations, Spiritual Help for Depression, Divine Filiation and the Virtue of Hope. Three appendices are included: Resources for Further Reading, Prayers in Times of Distress, and An Address by John Paul II on Depression.

Made this Way: How to prepare kids to Face Today’s Tough Moral Issues (2018)

Leila Miller with Trent Horn. 

“Made This Way: How to Prepare Kids to Face Today’s Tough Moral Issues” by Leila Miller and Trent Horn is a timely and accessible guide for Catholic parents, teachers, and counselors. The book addresses the pressing moral issues confronting today’s Christians, issues that were largely absent a generation ago. The authors highlight the challenges posed by the distortions of natural and divine laws that have upended traditional moral stability. They emphasize that many Catholic parents are either unaware of these changes or unsure how to guide their children through this moral confusion. The book is designed to equip those involved in Catholic youth formation with the tools to address sensitive questions without harming a child’s innocence. The authors ground their arguments in natural law, reflecting God’s plan and design, and suggest teaching truth through learned experience. They follow the stages of a child’s development, providing guidance on using natural law to understand moral issues. Chapter 1 outlines the methodology for moral formation, advocating a balance between authoritarianism and permissiveness. The authors recommend an authoritative approach that fosters trust and respect, cautioning against the cultural tendency to mislabel such teaching as indoctrination. The book’s chapters cover key moral topics: 1. Sex Outside of Marriage 2. Same-Sex Marriage 3. Divorce 4. Contraception 5. Abortion 6. Reproductive Technologies 7. Modesty 8. Pornography 9. Transgender Identity 10. Homosexuality Each chapter is structured into three sections: the Catholic teaching on the topic, how to discuss it with prepubescent children, and how to address it with teenagers. The authors combine practical parenting experience with research and sound reasoning, summarizing key ideas at the end of each chapter. The book ultimately serves as a clear explanation of the counter-cultural stance of the Catholic Church.

---

To subscribe to the magazine, click Subscribe