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

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

Human Spirituality

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

Spirituality of Love

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

Spirituality of Humility

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

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Fr Vincy Samy MSFS

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A resident of Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, shared a harrowing experience during prayer in our group on December 1, 2024, detailing the aftermath of Cyclone Fengal. She wrote, “I’m spending the night in my house, sitting on a chair surrounded by knee-deep water. I hope the water will recede by morning so I can begin the arduous task of cleaning and restoring my home.” Relentless rain over two days had severely flooded roads, leaving many stranded. “It’s been traumatic,” she added, expressing solidarity with others who, like the people of Wayanad in July 2024, lost homes and belongings to natural disasters.

The cyclone wreaked havoc on Thiruvannamalai, including a deadly landslide that claimed seven lives from one family. Over 2,400 huts and several houses were destroyed, while 2.11 lakh hectares of agricultural land were inundated, devastating crops and livestock and deepening the suffering of the community.

The So-Called Civilization and Destruction

The relentless onslaught of cyclones, landslides, floods, and torrential rains has left behind destruction, debt, and death. As we pursue progress in the name of civilization, we must ask: at what cost? The poor bear the brunt of this devastation—their homes reduced to rubble and their livelihoods destroyed. Farmers, overwhelmed by despair and debt, are taking their own lives. The future of the vulnerable grows increasingly uncertain, forcing us to confront the true cost of our so-called progress.

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Sr Lini Sheeja MSC

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Following the first article in this series, published in the December issue of Magnet, Sr. Celine continues her exploration of Pope Paul VI’s historic visit to India. Marking its 60th anniversary, this second article delves into the profound impact of the 38th International Eucharistic Congress, the vision of Vatican II, and the Pope’s tireless commitment to peace and inter-religious dialogue. The article highlights the enduring legacy of a Pontiff who exemplified humility, unity, and a transformative vision for humanity.

The visit of Paul VI to Bombay was a decisive success for the Catholic Church and the Indian Government. This humble Pilgrim of God got a reception – the highest manifestation of reverence, so full of cordiality and esteem, that no previous visitor to India had known. Dr. Radhakrishnan, President of India, who personally came to Bombay to meet Paul VI, said that such meetings “would ultimately result in all people working together, in a spirit of sincerity, reaching their fulfilment as members of one common family of God.” His attitude of humility and magnanimity, his capacity to be one with the Indian people won the hearts of the multitudes.

Paul VI nurtured a special affection for the enormous peoples of India and Asia. He affirmed: “In our memory Bombay will remain the symbol and compendium of the great continent of Asia, with its ancient cultures and traditions, with its immense populations, with its ardent desire for peace…We saw a most worthy humanity, innate with its millenary cultural traditions, not all Christians, but profoundly spiritual, good and kind, ancient and young at the same time…”

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Sr. CELINE D’CUNHA FMA

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The Italians have a saying: ‘After a fat pope, a thin pope,’ which essentially means that different men bring their own styles, personal qualities, and perspectives to the issues they face. Their understanding of the Petrine ministry is shaped by their unique life experiences.

The Pope, by God’s infinite imagination, is a man for his times. The Catholic Church throughout its history has had different popes, having different personalities, but always with an underlying continuity through the Magisterium (Ordinary, Conciliar and Pontifical Magisterium). We believe that the Church is not a political Institution, nor an Amazon-like corporation headed by a white-robed CEO, but a divine body guided by the Holy Spirit speaking through the living Magisterium, albeit made up of men and women with human imperfections.

On 17th December, Pope Francis will have celebrated his 88th birthday, whilst the Catholic Church continues into the 11th year of his pontificate. Whilst thanking God and reflecting on this Papacy, what comes to mind is the beautiful metaphor of Pope St. John XXIII, on the opening of the Second Vatican Council, where he proclaimed – “open the windows and let in the fresh air.”  I would go a step further and add that Pope Francis in the last 11 years has not only built on the legacy of Vatican II and his predecessors but is also repositioning the Church by constantly challenging it to “think out of the box” but also simultaneously encouraging it to be rooted in the deposit of faith – continually guided by the Holy Spirit, so that the fresh air further circulates into all rooms, consequentially opening Church doors in an invitation to the heavenly wedding banquet    (Mt 22:1-14), welcoming everyone(the Catholic Church is for “todos, todos, todos”  – everyone, everyone, everyone).

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To Sir, With Love (1966): Runtime: 105 Minutes

Director: James Clavell

Cast:  Sidney Poitier, Christian Roberts, Judy Geeson, Suzy Kendall, Ann Bell, Geoffrey Bayldon, Faith Brook.

Set in 1960s London, this film based on E.R. Braithwaite’s novel explores themes of vocation, teaching, and overcoming class and race barriers.

The story follows Mark Thackeray, a graduate engineer from British Guiana, who takes a temporary teaching position at a secondary school in London’s East End after struggling to find work. His students are troubled, many rejected from other schools, and their leaders, Bert Denham and Pamela Dare, engage in vandalism and pranks. Thackeray, initially met with resistance, changes his approach after losing his temper. He demands respect from his students, addressing them as adults, and promises to treat them with the same respect in return.

Thackeray introduces field trips to London’s museums and works to build mutual respect, though he faces setbacks. Students initially resent his insistence on discipline, such as when he forces a rowdy student, Potter, to apologize to the gym instructor. Tensions rise when they refuse to invite him to their dance, decline his donation for a wreath for a deceased student’s mother, and avoid visiting the home of Seales, a mixed-race student, fearing social criticism. The headmaster doubts Thackeray’s methods and cancels future activities. Despite the challenges, Thackeray stays committed to his students. He replaces the gym trainer but considers leaving when offered an engineering job. Pamela’s mother asks him to counsel Pamela, whose growing infatuation complicates matters. Denham, still antagonistic, challenges Thackeray to a boxing match. Thackeray wins with one punch, helps him up, earns Denham’s respect, and suggests he become the boxing coach. By the end, Thackeray earns the admiration of his students, who express their gratitude with a heartfelt parting gift signed “To Sir, with Love.” Thackeray is moved and begins to reconsider his career path.

Born Into Brothels: Calcutta’s Red Light Kids (2004) : Runtime: 85minutes.

Directors: Zana Briski, Ross Kauffman

Cast: Kochi, Avijit Halder, Shanti Das, Manik, Puja Mukerjee             Gour, Suchitra, Tapasi, Mamuni

This is a documentary that focuses on the story of perhaps the most marginalized group of children in India. It takes viewers into the lives of children in Kolkata’s red-light district, Sonagachi, the heart of India’s sex trade. Directed by Zana Briski and Ross Kauffman, the film offers an intimate portrait of the children living in one of the most marginalized communities. It sheds light on the human side of a world that society often avoids—showing the potential, innocence, and talent that exist even in the darkest places.

The film grew from Briski’s initial visit to India in 1995, where she sought to study women’s issues such as child marriage, female infanticide, and dowry deaths. Her visit led her to Sonagachi, where she was overwhelmed by the life of sex workers and their children. Despite the community’s initial resistance, Briski persisted for months, gradually gaining access. She discovered that prostitution was a generational, forced tradition for women and girls, and although the males were not usually involved in the sex trade, the film avoids discussing explicit details.

Briski’s bond with the children deepened, and she taught them photography as a form of self-expression. The children embraced this new art form, capturing life around them with unique perspectives. This initiative turned into the Kids with Cameras project, and one of the children’s photos was exhibited in Amsterdam.

The documentary presents a hopeful message, showing the children’s talents and the possibility of a better life. Their photographs also helped them earn money, which supported their education. The film, praised for its sensitive and socially committed approach, received widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including an Oscar nomination in 2005.

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In this meditation, the profound reflections from Chapter 1 of Dilexit Nos are interwoven with four tender and transformative moments from beloved films. Each scene serves as a mirror, inviting us into a space of deep connection and the call to return to the heart.

TREASURING THE UNKNOWN WITH LOVE

The Gospel tells us this in speaking of Our Lady, who saw things with the heart. The best expression of how the heart thinks is found in the two passages in Saint Luke’s Gospel that speak to us of how Mary “treasured (synetérei) all these things and pondered (symbállousa) them in her heart” (cf. Lk2:19 and 51). What Mary “kept” was not only her memory of what she had seen and heard, but also those aspects of it that she did not yet understand; these nonetheless remained present and alive in her memory, waiting to be “put together” in her heart. (DN19)

Mary here embodies our heart’s capacity to hold the tension between mystery and change. And this reminds me of a poignant scene in the film Fiddler on the Roof.

In Fiddler on the Roof, Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman, faces the tension between tradition and change. The heartfelt scene below depicts his internal struggle as he reluctantly blesses his daughter Hodel’s choice to marry Perchik for love rather than through an arranged marriage, showcasing his deep love for her and the shifting values of their world.

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Br Sunil Britto CFC

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At five in the morning, a group of us began our journey from Isiolo to Marsabit, a 260-kilometer stretch. The road is part of a major highway that runs from Egypt in the north all the way to South Africa. We chose to start early to avoid the intense heat that would soon rise over the Kenyan desert. Isiolo is less than 100 kilometers from Nanyuki, right on the equator line.

As we drove, the landscape was adorned with acacia trees, a typical feature of Kenya. The Senegalia mellifera, with its pods, leaves, flowers, and twigs, is highly favored by wildlife and livestock alike. We were lucky to spot a few giraffes feeding around the trees. As the name mellifera suggests, these acacias produce nectar-rich flowers, meaning “honey-bearing.” Along the way, we also encountered some ostriches and gazelles, which quickly darted back into the bush at the sound of our vehicle. The baboons, however, were far bolder, sitting by the roadside, hoping for food scraps from passing cars.

On one side of the road, the moon still shone in all its glory, while on the other, the horizon began to hint at dawn. The night’s darkness was slowly giving way to vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red. Half an hour into the trip, we passed groups of children walking along the roadside on their way to school.

“Isn’t it too early?” I asked.

Alex, the Brother driving our car, didn’t think so. He explained that some schools, including ours, start as early as 6:30 AM, and many children live far away. At one point, we passed a little boy, maybe seven years old, walking alone. I found myself wondering: What goes through the mind of a seven- or eight-year-old walking by himself at this hour? Is he sad? happy? Is he going over his multiplication tables or some other lesson he had to memorize? Does he even notice he’s alone?

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Br Carmel Duca MC

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This cannot be done by the wisest of lawyers sitting together in conclave; it cannot be done by small committees’ trying   to balance interests and calling that constitution-making; it can never be done under the shadow of an external authority. It can only be done effectively when the political and psychological conditions are present, and the urge and sanctions come from the masses – Jawaharlal Nehru

India recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of its Constitution, a platinum jubilee that calls for reflection on the vision of its framers and a renewed commitment to uphold its values and morality. This milestone invites us to reassess how well the Constitution has articulated the nation’s goals and established effective governance structures. While it has served the nation remarkably well, not all contingencies could have been foreseen or addressed at the time, as Granville Austin highlights in The Indian Constitution – The Cornerstone of a Nation.

The world’s longest written Constitution lays the framework for India’s polity, built on foundational values of fairness and justice for every citizen. The inclusion of Fundamental Rights exemplifies this commitment, ensuring equity and dignity for all.

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Adv. Sr. Mary Scaria SCJM

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1. Tell us something about your early years.

I was born in the city of Lucknow, belonged to the Cathedral parish there, studied in Loreto till Degree College, then did B.Ed. in the Lucknow University (1975), after which, in 1976, I was appointed as Teacher in St. Agnes’ Loreto High School. My family had a simple faith, we were all well educated, and we learned to work hard in our early years. I became fluent in English and Hindi, and took active part in our diocese’s Catholic Youth Association in social work and dramatics.

2. What attracted you to join the Order of Consecrated Virgins (OCV) and just how did you receive the call?

I started discerning my vocation from 1978. I was happy and popular with my students as their Teacher, yet after a deep God-experience during a Catholic Charismatic Retreat in 1979, I felt that there was something more I was called to. I prayed much and eventually said “yes” at once to an invitation given to me by my Parish Priest to do a one-year Bible Course in Bombay. I left my home and job and friends and beloved homeland to go to an unknown far away big city, which I had only seen in the movies, to study the Bible with other lay people from other cities of India. We were the first group of the Catholic Bible Institute in Mumbai, started by Fr. Fio Mascarenhas SJ, in 1979.

After that, my life’s journey with Jesus took me to the USA for M.A. (Th) studies, then back to Bombay in 1982 to serve in the Bible Institute, from where I was asked to work in the Regional Pastoral Centre of North India in Patna, because of my proficiency in Hindi. From there in 1984, my bishop sent me to Rome and I had to study Theology right from the start, including Philosophy and Latin at the same time! From the Baccalaureate in Theology to the Licentiate, and then to the Doctorate in Sacred Theology, I studied in the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (also in Regina Mundi for Philosophy).

In 1985, during my studies in Canon Law, I received a strong inspiration about my vocation to the “Order of Consecrated Virgins living in the world” (Ordo Virginum). The words of canon 604 immediately confirmed for me that this Order was for me! I enquired about it from my Professor, who told me to write to my bishop, because only the bishop can confirm the vocation and consecrate the candidate. My bishop told me to complete my doctorate first and by then he would do his own Research about this vocation, because not much was known about it in the Church in India. In 1991 I completed my Doctoral Dissertation on Mary, a Gift for India, defended my thesis, etc. and returned to Patna, and in 1992 Archbishop Benedict J.Osta, SJ consecrated me in the Khurji parish church, in the presence of my mother and all the parishioners, using (for the first time in India!) the special Rite for Consecrated Virgins.

3. You have a doctorate in Sacred Theology and must be among the few women who have a doctorate in Scriptures.

My Doctorate is in Sacred Theology, but all my work has been in the field of Sacred Scripture, which is the foundation for all theology. When I completed my doctorate in 1991, I heard that I was the first lay woman to have earned a doctorate in Sacred Theology from a Pontifical University in Rome. I believe that it was all planned and executed by our loving God, who chose me for this privilege, all I did was to say “yes” and work hard single-mindedly while taking several risks.

4. You have authored several bestselling books such as “Seeking Jesus in the OT”; Prayer for the Laity; Handbook for CCR Core Teams; and “Life of Jesus as Contemplated by Mary.” Do you feel your being a woman helped contribute a fresh perspective on the role of Mary in Salvation History?

Yes, indeed! The Lord God gave me the insights and experience, and Mary and Joseph guided me through. My contribution to Mary’s role is to see her as an exceptional human being whose whole life and attention was attuned to the movements of the Holy Spirit. She is a model Woman and not a goddess.

5. You were Editor of Bible Aglow for 20 years, also Director of the Catholic Bible Institute for 22 years, have written articles in Foreign and Indian journals, and served for 6 years on the Executive Committee of the worldwide Catholic Biblical Federation. When you look back what do you think helped you to do justice to so many associations in the Church?

My basic nourishment came from my love and relationship to the Word of God and the vast experience of the theological and biblical world as I studied and travelled around the world, learning through all the dialogue and participation in international conferences. But my one centering point is FAITH in Jesus who never forsakes me, and in the Catholic Church of which I am a useful member.

6. You were nominated by Pope Benedict XVI to attend the 2005 Synod of Bishops in Rome as an auditor. You were also a member of the Indian Theological Association and taught Scripture in the Pius X Seminary in Mumbai and in other institutions across the country. Did you experience gender discrimination and Patriarchy, when you worked in these positions?

I felt accepted and appreciated in my service to the People of God, perhaps because of my qualifications and talents. However, I am well aware of the subtle atmosphere of patriarchal and clerical monopolies in the Church!

7. The CBCI invited you to address them at their PA in Bangalore. Did you find the Bishops ready to listen to you as a Professional woman?

I felt deeply honored to address the Plenary Assembly of the CBCI! It was a gift from the Lord to me, because I felt deeply unworthy of being called to serve in that manner. And the bishops’ happy response built up my courage and faith.

8. You have rendered tremendous service to the Church. What do you think were your main contributions, especially to the church in India?

First, my Faith Formation seminars and retreats to far away villages of the poorest of the poor in the Patna Diocese for the Dalits; and in Ranchi and Dibrugarh dioceses for the Adivasis, mostly tea-garden workers, illiterate and very poor. Secondly, being the first member of Ordo Virginum in India, I helped Fr. Fio Mascarenhas, SJ from 1994 to begin the formation of interested candidates who felt called to this vocation. Cardinal Pimenta (and successors) had appointed him as our Chaplain. Now we have about 20 members in various parts of India consecrated by their respective bishops to serve the Church and the world. Still, much needs to be done and understood about this vocation and our mission. Praise Jesus!

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Dr. Renu Rita Silvano, OCV

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In a recent study on Childhood and Contemporary Catholicism, Gerard Lemos shares a profound insight: despite shrinking families, shifting social values, and growing issues of trust and mistrust, children—particularly Catholic children—largely perceive God as a being of love and mercy. This discovery carries immense significance for the future of humanity. As we continue celebrating the birth of Jesus in this octave of newness, it resonates deeply with Pope Francis’ encyclical Dilexit Nos, which redefines love. No longer confined to exclusive relationships, this love builds bridges – uniting individuals, communities, and nature, our shared home. It inspires hearts to hear the cries of pain, moving us toward collective action for healing and renewal.

However, Lemos’ study also highlights a painful truth: trust has become a pitfall in today’s world. The erosion of trust, particularly within institutions like the Church, has deeply affected our ability to create safe spaces for children and vulnerable individuals. This failure calls for an honest reckoning, compelling us to rebuild trust as an essential foundation for enduring love. Without trust, love cannot flourish. Trust allows relationships to deepen, communities to thrive, and faith to grow. Dilexit Nos reminds us that enduring love must also be a healing love – one that restores trust where it has been broken and nurtures faith in the goodness of humanity.

The January issue of Magnet embraces this enduring love – a love that transforms lives, strengthens relationships, rebuilds trust, and upholds the sacredness of life across humanity and the cosmos. Through our cover stories and articles, we reflect on how we, as religious men and women, are called to embody and proclaim this enduring love through our lives and actions.

Our first cover story by Fr. Jayaseelan Savariarpitchai SDB explores the spiritual richness of Dilexit Nos, revealing how the Sacred Heart addresses humanity’s yearning for connection, compassion, and renewal. More than a symbol, the Sacred Heart is a call to love as Christ loved – a love that is both tender and transformative. In the second cover story, Sr. Benny reflects on the Sacred Heart’s resonance with feminine energy. She delves into the transformative power of love, healing, and sacrifice, showing how these universal virtues transcend gender while embracing divine and human compassion. Her article invites us to embody the Sacred Heart’s call to unity and self-giving love. The third cover story by John Bosco examines the spiritual connection countless individuals share with the Sacred Heart. He reflects on how devotion, from childhood to adulthood, offers solace and guidance through life’s challenges – a testament to the enduring power of divine love. In the fourth cover story, Sr. Anjala highlights Dilexit Nos’ invitation to live out Christ’s love in action. This is a love that goes beyond concepts, urging us to actively care for others and respond to the world’s pain. Br. Sunil’s article further explores this theme, bringing Dilexit Nos to life through poignant movie scenes, offering fresh and authentic expressions of compassion and discernment in living life from the heart.

This issue is further enriched by diverse voices that gently yet profoundly engage with the richness of love. Mr. Lavoisier reflects on Pope Francis’ leadership in making God’s love tangible in today’s world. Sch. Jayanth Christy SJ describes how forgiveness and love within his family made everyday life a celebration of Christmas. Sr. Celine honours the enduring legacy of Pope Paul VI, a Pontiff whose humility and vision continue to inspire. Joe Anthony’s portrayal of Sr. Mary Federick MC celebrates her as a pillar of faith and strength. Sr. Shalini reminds us of the sacraments as sacred channels of divine grace, connecting us to the mystery of God’s love and salvation. Sr. Vineetha highlights how Catholic priests and nuns in Kerala have brought hope to those struggling with land disputes, turning faith into compassionate action. Through Dr. Renu’s inspiring story, Janina demonstrates the transformative power of saying “yes” to God’s call. Fr. Joe Mannath challenges us to go beyond surface-level faith practices to embody Christ’s teachings of love and forgiveness. Prof. Gigy’s review of Born Into Brothels: Calcutta’s Red Light Kids reveals the untapped potential and innocence in society’s forgotten corners. Fr. Jeyaraj emphasizes the holistic contributions individuals make to society as markers of a meaningful life. Sr. Mary Scaria reflects on the importance of teaching constitutional values as a cornerstone for forming character. Novice Oswin reminds us to safeguard every child’s dignity, ensuring they are cherished and raised in love and faith. Br. Carmel shares reflections on the resilience of Kenyan communities, inspiring hope for a young Church filled with promise. Sr. Lini addresses systemic inequalities as she focuses on the harsh realities of drought and debt, echoing Dilexit Nos’ call to embrace love in action. Fr. Jose invites us to explore spiritual journaling as a transformative tool for growth. Fr. Vincy MSFS reflects on the simple, practical, and enduring spirituality of Francis de Sales, which remains relevant and inspiring in today’s world.

This issue of Magnet is a testament to synodality and inclusivity, bringing together the voices of religious and lay contributors united in their reflections on enduring love. As editor, journeying through these contributions is more than a task; it is an invitation to be transformed and united with writers and readers.

This issue also celebrates Mary, Mother of God, whose faith and love continue to inspire us. I am deeply grateful to our dedicated team, our writers, and you, our readers, for joining us on this journey of reflection and renewal.

As we step into the New Year, may we carry the light of enduring love in our hearts. Wishing each one of you a joyful and grace-filled 2025!

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Pushpa Joseph

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