Editorial – Trasna: Journeying with Hope
The CRI National Assembly 2024, centered on the theme, “Journeying with Hope: Relevance and Our Prophetic Response,” concluded recently in Bangalore. This gathering brought together around 600 major superiors to explore new paths for our mission of hope and prophetic compassion. This issue of Magnet encapsulates this trasna moment – a decisive crossing in the life of the Conference of Religious India. Trasna, an Irish word meaning ‘crossing,’ signifies moments of transition or change. The cover photo of this issue captures Jesus rejecting materialism and moving toward the light, accompanied by a woman in her own trasna moment, symbolizing the courage to embrace hope. Reflecting on trasna moments, these transitions teach us profound lessons that shape our journeys and illuminate our paths.
Here are five reflections that offer a deeper understanding of these pivotal crossings:
- Embracing the Unknown: There comes a time when we stand on the edge of the familiar, looking out into the vast unknown. These moments are filled with both fear and excitement, as they mark the point where we leave behind what we know and step into what we can only imagine. It is in these crossings that we find the courage to grow, explore, and transform. At the CRI National Assembly, the participants faced the unknown, collectively envisioning a future filled with hope. This act of stepping into uncharted territories is a testament to our faith and commitment to transformation, mirroring the journey of Jesus as depicted on our cover.
- Letting Go and Moving Forward: Every trasna moment asks us to release something once held dear – be it a place, a person, or a part of ourselves. This act is not an end, but a beginning, reminding us that life is a series of transitions where we become more attuned to our true selves. The assembly provided an opportunity to shed outdated methods and embrace dynamic approaches to our mission. This process is crucial for progress, akin to the woman on our cover photo symbolizing the release of the old to embrace the new.
- Finding Strength in Vulnerability: Standing at the threshold of a new phase, we often feel vulnerable and uncertain. But it is in these moments of crossing that we discover our inner strength. Trasna moments teach us that vulnerability is not a weakness but a profound source of strength and authenticity. Despite their uncertainties, the participants at the assembly found strength in their shared vulnerability. This unity and collective strength reinforce our mission, demonstrating that vulnerability can be a powerful catalyst for authentic connection and progress.
- The Beauty of Change: Change can be daunting, but trasna moments highlight the beauty that lies in transformation. They show us that every ending is a new beginning, and every challenge is an opportunity to reshape our lives in ways we never thought possible. It is through these crossings that we find beauty in the journey itself. The discussions at the assembly underscored the beauty of change, revealing opportunities to reshape our mission.
- Connecting with Our True Path: In the quiet moments before a significant change, we often feel a deep sense of anticipation. Trasna moments are like whispers from our soul, guiding us towards our true path. They remind us to listen to our inner voice, to trust the journey, and to follow the path that leads to our most authentic self.
This June edition also features a cover story by Fr. Mahesh, who delves into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Peace, inspired by Pope Francis. He explores various facets of AI and its implications for our society and faith. Additionally, Fr. Dolin provides an insightful summary of the new Papal Bull of 2024, “Hope Does Not Disappoint.” This document comes at a crucial time for us, reinforcing our mission and values. Stories of consecrated individuals like Fr. David Standley and Bl. Maria Laura Mainetti, and the work of PREP – a re-entry programme for former prison inmates, illuminate lives dedicated to compassion and service. Spiritual and psychological nourishment abounds in this edition, with Sr. Celine’s series on prayer, Sr. Shalini’s “Ekklesia: The Divine Ship of Inspiration,” and Sr. Lini’s “5G from the Holy Bible.” Br. Sunil discusses “Creating a Culture of Hope,” while Fr. Jeyaraj, Fr. Jose, and Fr. Joe Mannath each offers insights on compassion, conflict resolution, and dreams respectively. An interview with Sr. Virgy by Ms. Janina showcases a life of love and service. Prof. Gigy reviews “Arnos Pathiri,” “The Anxious Generation,” and movies The Robe and Jeremiah while Sr. Mary Scaria provides legal guidance on protecting children from sexual offences.
The concept of Trasna is particularly poignant now. Just as Jesus moved forward in hope, we too must make brave, prophetic choices. For those unfamiliar with Trasna, turn to the back cover where Sr. Raphael Consedine’s poem encapsulates the essence of crossing over and new beginnings. This poem, like a guiding star, reminds us that every step brings us closer to becoming beacons of hope. Let us, as a collective body of religious men and women in India, embrace our own Trasna moments, making choices reflecting our commitment to justice, peace, and compassion.
Pushpa Joseph
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