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THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF DELHI CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE VOL. 30, ISSUE 1 JANUARY 2021 `10 Servant of God Mother Annammal Human fraternity May the Lord give us the grace 16 35 to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of Cathedral Christmas Chetanalaya-Upcycling Celebration Project other religions, praying for one another, open to all.
HOLY FATHER’S P R AY E R I N T E N T I O N F O R J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1 Human fraternity May the Lord give us the grace to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of other religions, praying for one another, open to all.
Contents from the editor 5 The Shepherd’s Voice 8 We Drink from Our Own Wells - XXXXX 9 Musings of the Month Human Fraternity 10 Theology & Christian Life - 14 11 Special 14 Parish Roundup fr. sTanley Kozhichira 24 School Snippets 31 Diocesan Digest 39 Calendar of Feasts We are in New Year 2021. In January 2020 editorial, I had written that the year 2020 would fly like Twenty20 cricket match. The match is fast, it ends with great excitement and enthusiasm. Yes indeed patron the year Tewnty20 ended, but not definitely on great Archbishop Anil J.T. Couto note, and not at all with enthusiasm, as we were trailing, snarling editor Fr. Stanely Kozhichira through the year and mostly house bound. And now that we are editorial board entering into the new year 2021, are we going to jump from Covid to Augustine Kurien Covaxin? We are getting ready with the vaccine. But the new strand Deepanjali Rao in the virus has shown up already.We are fighting against a virus, Divya Joy finance and circulation manager self-mutating RNA, but whether these vaccines will be effective is left Fr. Francis Prasad again in the hands of God. Hopefully the year would bring some happy secretariat news. Turning our grim faces to some bright light. Tency Thomas Design concept Amidst the gloomy side of the world Holy Father went ahead with a Mustardtree.in printed and published by happy news by publishing the “Fratelli Tutti” on social friendship. Fr. Januario Rebello Archbishops has brilliantly summarised the core contents of the on behalf of Delhi Catholic Archdiocese encyclical. He talks about giving emphasis on dialogue, which is ‘The DESIGN & printed at Point’ in building social friendship. So Holy Father also wants us to Bosco Society for Printing & Graphic Training, Okhla Road, New Delhi - 110 025 pray this month, for Human fraternity, he says, “May the Lord give Tel.: 26839864, 26910729 us the grace to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of Published by Delhi Catholic Archdiocese other religions, praying for one another, open to all’. 1 Ashok Place, New Delhi - 110001 Tel.: (+91-11) 23343457, 23362058 Adding to this joy is His declaration of the year 2021 as the year Fax: (+91-11) 23746575 Email: archbishopdelhi@yahoo.co.in dedicated to St. Joseph. With his the Apostolic Letter “Patriscorde” Facebook: Voiceofdelhi Archdiocese Delhi (“With a Father’s Heart”), Pope Francis recalls the 150th anniversary Website: www.archdiocesedelhi.com of the declaration of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church. Surely St. Joseph who protected the Holy Family, who continues to annual subscription `150 (by post); US $ 25 (abroad); UK £ 15 protect the Universal church, will also continue to protect the world (abroad); Europe € 13 (abroad) from all the issues that we face currently. By Local cheque/bank draft favouring “The Voice of Delhi” Let us begin the new year with a new hope and place our complete Contributions for publication may be sent to trust in the Lord. We actually have experienced the oneness of human the above address by post or by email to: being during this pandemic. Now let us pray together as one human voiceofdelhi@gmail.com Editor’s mobile: 9868353289 family in this year for the Lord to take control of the current situation. The articles, news reports and other materials Let us always look for the silver lining in the darkest cloud in faith. published in this magazine (other than the Shepherd’s Voice) reflect the views of the authors Have a blissful New Year. and not of the Archdiocese of Delhi and VOD does Celebrate life. not take any responsibility or liability for the same. Total Page No. 44 January 2021 3
Letters Letters thank you for writing to us, we're sharing it here for aLL to read! thank you for writing to us, we're sharing it here for aLL to read!welcoming and refreshing. It has if an international magazine of been given a VERY INTERNATIONAL LOOK. May God bless the team magnificence. Really incredible! It is indeed endearing. All of us at St. WRITE TO US in bringing forthcoming issues Michael’s Church, Prasad Nagar We look forward to communicating Father Stanley successfully. congratulate youourand the entire more often with readers. Feel team Thanks My best awishes lot for the regular supply of at free VODtofor such write a marvelous to us, with the kindmake VODDear evenFather, gratefulThrough in PDF format. to you for the ofDear over Editor, in the I happy beginning information you to itssee of like would the 26th us to year Sophia the Biju monthly diocesan Mathew Parish Iroundups. magazine am able toItknow is changes ofinclude in publishing. the Voice of Delhi and and your views on the content! such a beautiful the news SHAHBAD even inway of sharing and Australia. Together your With teams weeffort respects are and the to Voice makeofitDelhi. regards, look getting inspired through the activities Email: better voiceofdelhi@gmail.com and readable. Kindly pay Agnelo of Miranda various Parishes. Thanks for the C.M. Thomas attention to the the language and efforts put in to I liked the get us entire newupdated with look of the spellings. PRASAD nAGAR everything happening in various Voice of Delhi - January 2017 edition. Parishes. The change is very much appreciated Shreedhar and Deardraws an instant Editorial Team, attraction. Laxmi Nagar Catherine The quality Kindly Thomas send of our paper specialand printing is to Mr. Collville to the regular updating of the appreciation Alaknanda of December 2020 importance of the month,cover high standard and the design through the months musings. God Bless you. JANUARY 2017 deserves special applauds. Articles are Sheena George giving people insightful informative WRITE TO US It was a pleasant surprise to all Thanks Palam Vihar a that perspectives lot for the to allow beautiful adapt the we look forward to communicating of us to see January issue of the Voice Voice of Delhi spiritual needs.every month Wishing youwith a lot all the more often with our readers, feel of Delhi in a new shape with quality of creativity best and mayand thenewness.I would like coming editions be free to write to us, with the kind of inputs for readers. Your efforts to to say the “well of great reflections.issue” by Fr. Maxim information you would like us to October 2017 include, your views on the content! make the VOD classical magazine Pinto is With bestToreally VoD,enriching. wishes, Together we are the Voice of Delhi. of the Archdiocese has borne fruit. email: voiceofdelhi@gmail.com First of all congratulations for the efforts you put towards bringing the Dear Please Editor, accept our“Discovering congratulations William Herald Philamin Philip magazines on time. I just wanted to point out a few mistakes diocesan Identity” by Professor Dean and gratitude for the initiative put in Rohini AlAknAnDA of the last edition. There were some words in the article by Abhilasha, by you and your team inread Fernandes, time.making VOD was Like many a great youngsters it the this revitalising I also readers' delight. The heavens which seems to be used differently. Hope you would take care of this in the future. have such Regards, confusions in mind about identity. The article did really help makeover Sr.of Lalita VOD. Roshni TheLakra are telling the Congrats on the very impressive LookDSA is A meChinnappan to realize a great line of thoughts. MAYUR VIHAR III glory of God; and polished and professional, the article layout very well done, as also the Zen Johnson Ayyanad the firmament quality of the printing. Clearly a lot of Gurugram thought and effort has gone into this St. Anna proclaims his While congratulating you for the remodeling and the result is there new look VOD, I wish I am 50 years and Joachim handiwork. for all of us to appreciate. Once again Day Respected younger to readRev Fr.script. your Stanley congrats to you, and the team of VOD Kozhichira, Prayerful Love and prayers greetings! For and Mustard Tree. presented to day pours forth and on behalf of Parish Priests and "Mary having co-operated in our redemption with KC Jacob parishioners of St. Michael’s Church, Audrey Carvalho Daver so much glory to God and so young speech, andMary much love night for us, Our Prasad PITAMPURANagar, I take this opportunity to express gratitude to your goodself to the to night Lord ordained that no one shall temple. declares obtain salvation and the Editorial Board for publishing except through her intercession." It is with a stunning surprise write-up I take and thisphotographs opportunity toin the to our eyes we all at our parish Mary Presented knowledge. -St. Alphonsus Maria de Liguori wish VOD A Very Happy Newissue Voice of Delhi, October 2017 on the and following: the congratulate "Celebration Year of St. team on the received the Voice of Delhi January 2017 issue having fascinating in the Temple, PSALM 19:1-2 4 The Voice ofAnd Delhi Thomas Feast SCC Annual NEW LOOK given to VOD. It is very With respects and regards, Yours Day" design, style, composition and as Pray for us.
the shepherd’s voiCe The Little We Are All Sisters And Brothers Of One Another Virtues T he negative side of Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly dampened our spirits but the positive side certainly lifts up our spirits. We have seen how the pandemic has united the whole world as one human family above nationalities, languages, cultures and religions. We have realized that the problems of one person are the problems of all, that we are part of one another, that we are sisters and brothers of one another, that no one is saved alone but we can only be saved together. As we make our entry into or in Christ thelife New Year in the 2021 Spirit is we have a life for our of virtue. meditation The some New Testament life radically profound thoughts offered to us by Pope Francis in his most recent encyclical constantly calls us to repent and lead virtuous lives if we are Fratelli Tutti promulgated on Octobertruly 3, 2020, the vigil disciples of of the feast Christ and of St. Francis members of Assisi, of his because Body the the Church. expression “fratelli tutti” (all arecall The sisters and brothers) of Christian life iscomes to have directly “the from mindthis great saint of Christ” (cf. and his radical spirituality based on the Gospel. The love that St. Francis of 1Cor. 2:14-16; Phil. 2: 5-7) which leads us to “empty ourselves” Assisi spoke of transcends the barriers of geography as Christand distance; emptied its essence himself so that consists we becomein a fraternal openness joyful people. that The allowsbeautiful words of St. Paul to the Philippians: Finally, brethren, whateverphysical us to acknowledge, appreciate and love each person regardless of is true, proximity whatever and place of birthwhatever is honourable, as well asisabode. just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever It is Christ is gracious, if there Ouris Lord who has taught any excellence, us this if there love firstworthy is anything and foremost, of praise, being think himself about these God’s things. love What If incarnate. youour have lovelearned and is for Christ received genuineand heard it will and seen influence allin me, our do; and and attitudes the God of peace relationships andwillflow be with into you” every(Phil. 4:8-9). thought, word and deed. This is what happened with St. FrancisTheofCatechism Assisi whoofwas thesoCatholic Church begins totally immersed the section in Christ on “Virtues” that nothing else could by emanate quoting the him from above words except of St. love, joy Paul. Virtues and peace. are divided Wherever into “Human he went, he sowed Virtues” and “Theological seeds of peace and walked Virtues”.the alongside “Human poor, the virtues: are firm abandoned, theattitudes, infirm and stable the dispositions, outcast, the least habitual of hisperfections brothers andof sisters. intellectHeandonlywill, that govern wanted to spreadourthe actions, love oforder our passions God which entails and guideand humility ourcomplete conduct renunciation of the desire to wield power and authority over others. He became oneleading according to reason and faith. They make possible: ease, self-mastery and joy in of the a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good” (CCC 1804). poor and sought to live in harmony with all. It is in the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments that give us the divine teachings The encyclical Fratelli Tutti articulates in eight chapters a call for all human persons on virtues. The Wisdom literature of the Old Testament is particularly filled with moral to recognize and live out our common fraternity which is being threatened by the trends of teachings pertaining to human behaviour. Human virtues are “acquired by education, by today. There are many factors that are holding humanity back from the development of a deliberate acts and by a perseverance ever-renewed in repeated efforts”, but they are also universal fraternity and move towards justice, peace and unity. The Pope calls these trends “purified and elevated by divine grace” (CCC 1810). the ‘dark clouds’ that are gathering over a world that is ‘closed’ – in other words trends that Four human virtues play a pivotal role in our moral life, hence they are called “cardinal” run contrary to seeing each other as brothers and sisters according to the vision of the Gospel. virtues. All other virtues are grouped around them. The cardinal virtues are:- Prudence “is If we look at the world today, the sense of belonging to a single human family is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance fading, and to and the dream choose of working the right meanstogether for justice of achieving it” (CCCand 1806). peace seems Justice an “isoutdated the moral utopia as virtue proved by tendencies such as aggressive nationalism that marginalizes that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC sections of people in a country, throwaway culture based on feverish consumerism, economic 1807). Fortitude “is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in globalization that creates more poverty the pursuit and injustice of the good. than it purports It strengthens to bring the resolve in prosperity, to resist temptations unequal distribution and to overcome of obstacles wealth between in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fearfor the rich and the poor through exploitation of the poor, disregard of human death,rights and toandfacehuman trials dignity especially of and persecutions. women, religious It disposes one evenpersecution, to renounce and disdain towards sacrifice his migrants, misuseofofadigital life in defense media(CCC just cause” for purposes contrary to 1808). Temperance “ismoral values, the moral etc. that moderates virtue Yet, despite the dark clouds which cannot be ignored, the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. there are new paths of hope It ensures the because God never will’s mastery ceases over to sow instincts andabundant seeds within keeps desires of goodness in our the limits human of what is family. honourable.This hasThe temperate been proved by person directs the the Covid-19 sensitive pandemic appetites crisis whichtoward what is of saw hundreds good, and maintains frontline warriors a healthy discretion” (CCC 1809). The human virtues are rooted in the theological virtues “which adapt man’s faculties January 2021 5 for participation in the divine nature: for the theological virtues relate directly to
the shepherd’s voiCe God” disposing Christians “to live in a relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCC 1812). The theological virtues are:- Faith putting which “is their the lives on the virtue theological line for bythe whichsake of the There are many factors that are holding other - doctors, we believe in Godnurses, pharmacists, and believe all thatstorekeepers he has said and and revealed supermarket to us, and workers, that Holy cleaning personnel, humanity back from the development of Church proposes caretakers, for our transport belief, men workers, because & women a universal fraternity and move towards he is truth working toitself” provide(CCC 1814). Faith, essential which services and public is indeed safety, a gift of God, volunteers, is “dead” priests, if it is … We and religious justice, peace and unity. The Pope calls not allied began to works to realize that(cf. ourJames 2:26). lives are Hope interwoven with these trends the ‘dark clouds’ that are “is sustained and the theological virtuepeople by ordinary by which we shaping valiantly desire the the kingdom decisive events of ofheaven and eternal our shared history. They gathering over a world that is ‘closed’ – life as our happiness, placing our trust in have epitomized the teaching of Our Lord in the in other words trends that run contrary to Christ’s promises and relying not on our parable of the ‘Good Samaritan’ (cf. Lk. 10:25-37) own strength, but on the help of the grace seeing each other as brothers and sisters on being ‘neighbour without borders’ to the most of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817). Charity “is vulnerable. according to the vision of the Gospel. the theological virtue by which we love What is the core message of this parable in God above all things for his own sake, and which the Lord actually sums up his entire Gospel our neighbor as ourselves for the love of when he says “You go, and do likewise” (Lk. 10:37). forms, indifference and, ultimately, a life closed to transcendence God” (CCC 1822). This is what Christ has It is none other than the Great Commandment and entrenched in individual interests. taught us in the new commandment of he This brings us to the role of the family which is the first lovehas given at the LastusSupper. to love God with all our heart, soul and mind and our neighbour as we love place where the values of love and fraternity, togetherness and ourselves (cf. Mt.above 22: 35-40). Theonsame theisLord sharing, concern and like caretofor others are lived out and handed on catechesis virtues of a classical nature. I would also AFFAbiLiTy, The has described, after ‘new commandment’ another as he hasare the loved he washing has us (cf. of given Jn. the 13: us feet, to as love 34-36). the one as flowing from our mention the “Little Virtues” which Fr. Denis Pereira of Mumbai had Next in line come the spoken about during a clergy retreat 19 years ago. The Little Virtues Love, training children and faith as important to our Christian life of discipleship as the two mainyouth in teachers in Jesus who, Christ our Lord and Saviour. COnDESCEnSiOn, in their challenging task of schools and other settings, should the Holy Father says, is categories mentioned above.more than just a series of be conscious that their responsibility extends SiMPLiCiTy, also to the moral, benevolent actions. Our love for others moves us WhAT to seekARe the The best LiTTLe for theirViRTUeS? lives. It makes possible spiritual and social aspects of life. kinDLinESS, We have to aspire and toil for a world that provides land, a social friendship � Sometimes thatindulgence, it is a little excludes no one easily which housing and apardons and work the faults of others, In order thisSWEETnESS for all.without to happen we mayOF have to the least desire fraternity � Sometimes universal that isofopen communion. a little to consideration all. It impels us it is a holy dissimulation, Hence true love fortowards which self. callsblinds for theoneye to the patent ‘rights withoutfaults of one’s borders’. ASPECT, OF ACTiOn, re-envisage the social role of property and begin to reflect seriously The Holy Father is conscious that neighbours, open which societiesand which that somebecause is entirely integrate preen themselves different, everyone as is apparent, as brothers on discovering the secret from that his radical faults of that petty vanity thinking others. OF MAnnERS, with unrealistic may sound OF but he is also firmly and sisters love acknowledges the worth convinced the path to lasting peace will only be possible � At of times every it is aperson human tenderand compassion, whichwhich his/her dignity takes to on itself thethe taskofofa mitigating basis global ethicthe WORDS, SuCh ARE, of solidarity, interdependence and sorrows is of the unfortunate, a fundamental of the fortunate. right. The and it is individualism radical a joy which spends itself increasing cooperation the happiness in the whole human family. TO RESuMé, ThE that is promoted in the world today will never lead A heart open to all will welcome, protect, promote and � Sometimes also it is a certain elasticity of spirit which recognizes spontaneously and to true liberty, equality and fraternity; it cannot integrate the migrants and not discriminate PLEASAnT LiTTLE against them. A healthy without the effort the worth of an idea which another has had before us, applauding it make us more free, more equal, more fraternal but as a discovery, and in no way being envious of the author of it. only pave the way for the ultimate destruction of ViRTuES. openness to the other is never a threat to one’s own identity but a way to mutual cultural enrichment which is necessary to understand � Now it is a solicitude which anticipates another’s need, desirous to spare the pain or humanity. the inexhaustible richness of human life and even of ourselves and humiliation of asking for help. When we pursue the good of others and our native land. The achievement of this universal vision certainly � Again it is a generosity of heart which does anything in its power to oblige, and which of the entire human family we help individuals demands a better kind of politics, one truly at the service of the when it can do but little, would wish to be able to do more. and societies to mature in the moral values that common good and not one that hinders the progress towards a � Finally it is a sweet quiet affability which listens to the troubles of another with foster integral human development. These values different world. True politics will help the world to advance towards no apparent weariness, instructing the ignorant without the bitterness of reproach or are the fruits reprimand; orofitthe is aHoly Spirit certain as described politeness whichbyfulfills St. a civilization all of love, of the requirements a love that integrates and unites and not the urbanity not only interiorly, as happens in the world which makes show of these graces, butleader must make this principle the Paul in his letter to the Galatians (Gal. 5:22-23). other way round. Every political These valuesand with artless need to be passed Christian on from generation cordiality. touchstone of his/her political genuineness. to Affability, generation;condescension, otherwise what simplicity, kindliness, sweetness There is handed down is oneofword of aspect, thatofis indispensable in building a world action, manners, of words, such are, to resumé, the pleasant Little Virtues. However, the Little It sums up everything contained are selfishness, violence, corruption in its various of love and this word is ‘dialogue’. Virtues are by no means of a lesser degree than the virtues expected of a Christian as 6 The Voice of Delhi taught by St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians:
against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these (virtues) put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as you teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Put on Jesus, then,giving thankschosen as God’s to God the ones, Father holy and beloved, compassion, kindness through him” (Col. 3:12-17). lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complain against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also mus would like to end with a little story that may forgive. Andwell abovefit into our Lord’s all these (virtues) teaching put onon love, which binds everything together i Hence true love calls i going the “extra mile” (cf. Mt. 5:41): with him paint in approaching, asked him. and brushes speaking, While andlooking listening, painting, he began realized A man perfect called teach toin at, there and was asked harmony. paint the one coming was the to admonisha And boat body. hole tolet know in one paint a And bright and the a boat.ofHe the peace be red, thankful. hull another and in brought Christ for open societies that as theLet decided all wisdom, rule in your hearts, to which indeed you wer owner the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as yo to and as you sing psalms and hymns an understand one another, and to find common ground. Dialogue opens the repair it. When finished painting he received his spiritual money songs and withleft. The integrate everyone next thankfulness day, in the your owner hearts to God. And whatever you do, in wor door to healing of open wounds and to building peace among nations and of the boat came to the painter and presented or him deed, with do communities. But there is also need for peace makers, men and women a nice everything cheque, in as brothers and the much name higher of the than Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Fathe the payment for painting. The painter was surprised: through him” prepared to work boldly and creatively to initiate processes of healing (Col. 3:12-17). sisters because love -You’ve already paid me for painting the boat! he said. and renewed encounter. -But this is not for the paint job. It’s for having would repaired like tothe end hole with acknowledges the in athe boat. little story that may well fit into our Lord’s teaching o Since much of our conflicts have to do with religious differences, Ah! But it was such a small service… certainly amount for something so insignificant! My dear with i going it’sthe him the boat, asked not“extra the different religions, based on their respect for each human person as friend, you worthmile” do not paint a creature called to be a child of God, contribute significantly to building you what happened. When I asked you to paint him. IWhile fraternity and defending justice in society. Inter-faith dialogue is not for forgot worth of every human paying (cf.me andunderstand. brushes and to mention painting, Mt.such 5:41): Let a high A man was asked to paint a boat. He brough me tell began person and his/her about the he realized to paint the boat a bright red, as the owne there was a hole in the hull and decided t hole. When the boat dried, my kids took the boatit.and repair When the sake of diplomacy but to establish friendship, peace and harmony, went on a fishing finished dignity which is a painting trip. heThey did not received his money and left. The next day, the owne know that there was a hole. I was not at home of the at that time. toWhen I returned and noticed boat payment came and to share spiritual and moral values and experiences in a spirit of they had taken the boat, I was desperate the because I remembered the painter for painting. thatThe fundamental right. The and presented thepainter boat had was him with a nice cheque, much higher tha a surprised: hole. truth Imagineandmy love. relief and joy when I saw them returning -You’ve already from fishing. paid meThen radical individualism I examined for painting the he said. the boat! boat and foundthese With that sublime you had thoughts to inspire andsee,guide us let us enter joyfully into 2021 determined repaired the to build a new hole! world You -But this isnow, of pay liberty, not forwhat theyou that is promoted in the paintdid? You job. saved It’s the for having repaired the hole in the boat. life of my children! I do not have enough money to Ah! But yourequality it was “small” such and a smallgoodservice… deed. certainly it’s not worth paying me such a hig fraternity So, no in every who, matter small when contextorofhow. our lives. Just continue amount to help, sustain, for something world today will never wipe tears, so insignificant! Mylisten dear friend, you do not understand. Let me te attentively and carefully repair all the “leaks” you what youhappened. find, because When lead to true liberty, youI never asked know you towhen paint the boat, I forgot to mention about th God has a pleasant surprise for us to be helpful and important hole. When the boat dried,to someone. my kidsYou tookmay thehave boat and went on a fishing trip. They did no repaired numerous “boat holes” along the way, know of several that there was people a hole. equality and fraternity; without I was realizing not at home howat that time. When I returned and notice , many lives you’ve saved. it cannot make us they had taken the boat, I was desperate because I remembered that the boat had a hole + Archbishop Anil Couto more free, more equal, Imagine my relief and joy when I saw them returning from fishing. Then I examined th boat and found that you had repaired the hole! You see, now, what you did? You saved th archbishop of delhi life of my children! I do not have enough more money tofraternal butgood pay your “small” only deed. So, no matter who, when or how. Just pave the way for the tears, liste continue to help, sustain, wipe attentively and carefully repair all the “leaks” you find, because you never know whe ultimate destruction of On, God has a pleasant surprise for us to be helpful and important to someone. You may hav repaired numerous “boat holes” along the humanity. way, of several people without realizing how many lives you’ve saved. RE, + Archbishop Anil Couto archbishop of delhi E @archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/ february 2017 7 @archbishopdelhi www.facebook.com/archbishopanilcouto/ January 2021 7 february 2017
WE DRINK FROM OUR OWN WELLS - XXXXX fr. MaxiM PiNTO THE WORLD Of The Mystery Being WE LIVE IN – OUR Human COMMON HOME VI T oday, there is a genuine need to emphasize other words, to know Jesus might mean we seek out simpler yet far h that caring for the environment must be our more fulfilling pleasures, like a walk in the woods or encounters uman being is a complex being, an eternal enigma. The more we first priority. Of course, small efforts have with friends or enjoying the arts. Also, as we continue to participate know, the less we understand! Thinkers down the ages, whether been made in some quarters but that’s not enough in the economic reality of our times, Pope Francis challenges us philosophers, psychologists or others, have tried their best to decode to save the theearth! natureWe need tobeings, of human pull together all little but met with to success. see every‘Iact knowof him/ consuming as a moral act that involves gifts resources of theisworld her’ but aboth whitehuman andmay lie. One otherwise of creation have stayed together (air, land, as for years and water) and the dignity of workers and so that wein protect ourof the case ‘common home’ a marriage, or, for onefuture may have local been cultures. a friend forIt isyears, this kind of awareness and the small, daily generations. who has pouredIn out his his/her Encyclical, heartLaudato Si, themay tempt to the other, gestures onethat flowthat to say from‘I it that create the “culture of care” that pope knowhimself makesbut that person,’ some relevant this suggestions is far from to human truth. For, Pope being Francisis aadvocates dynamic transforming our world. Pope Francis restore the pristine being and beauty S/he ever evolving. of ouriscommon home. not a thing toInbe known ends or this encyclicaltowith a problem be an important section translating some the final solved chapter but of Laudato a mystery to be Si, he speaks lived directly with all to deeply its complexities andtraditional aspects beauties. In this of our faith into relevant guidance for this very it context, local reality: is good our own particular to remember lifestyles, Gabriel Marcel, us to live an existential out this Christian philosopher, who spirituality in our everyday lives. Two attitudes, and convictions. makes a distinction betweenAs he putsand ‘problem’ it in the ‘mystery.’ prime examples A problem arewhich is that the centrality of the Sacraments, especially the opening presents paragraph, “Many things its data objectively haveone and which to change Eucharist, can solve either andexperience by sense the model of the Sabbath. The former shapes our course, but it is we human or by experiment. Thus, beings above there are all who need problems awareness in the scientific and to see God social through our material, created world, and order: to change”. In gravitation, other words, imposition Pope demonetization, of taxes, Francis ends thisetc. the latter in carving out a day of rest and celebration to renew our encyclical with acannot The mystery very challenging message be completely –if webecause objectified, relationship with our neighbour, Creation, and God. In the end, one’s own subjectivity don’t personally changeplace our attitudes the data and lives, the this of God, whomThere we believe are remains deeply present to us, united to Young man, is involved. We cannot completely outside ourselves. solutions to our global ecological crisis will never mysteries of knowledge, of love, of freedom, of evil, our earth in love, will give of body-mind relation of us strength and light needed to find our I don’t have incarnation, etc. Human being as a mystery really arrive. In fact, the pope even uses traditionalis also corroborated by present-day way and “impel us to find new ways forward.” We need to heed to psychology. religious One may language recall ‘Johari to describe what’sWindow Model,’ a technique most needed: such propheticto understand voices and lend our hands generously to restore our problems but one’s relationship with oneself and an ecological conversion. What aspects of our others. This was proposed by ‘common home.’ Joseph Luft and Harrington lives Ingham (hence need this conversion? ‘Johari’), Pope Franciswhich beginsspeaks of unknown area of the Epilogue: I had asked Mr. Jose Abraham, the former editor of ‘Voice right away with how easily we “get caught up in self nor by others. Hence, a onlY persons In self. The `unknown area’ is neither known by the of Delhi’ in one my meetings with him, whether I could write a human a being of whirlwind cannot be fully needless known, buying andeither by him/herself or by others. spending.” series of articles for our diocesan magazine, to which he had readily mY dIocese. Moreover, Rather we must than acting askeep in mind that unconscious a person is never a problem, contrary consumers, to our riddled often day-to-daywith thinking. a feelingOnce a journalistand of emptiness asked aagreed. bishop, Unfortunately, whose diocese it was not materialized. When Fr. Stanley was mired with many complex problems: “You Kozhichira seem to have took over as myriad of the new editor of Voice of Delhi, I made a anxiety, the pope challenges us instead to adopt a problems in your diocese,” to which the wise bishop similar replied: request “Young toman, him and I he gladly agreed. I thank him and the lifestyle that conveys greater sobriety, namely less don’t have problems but only persons in my diocese.” editorial At times, team for for regularly reasons both publishing my articles and the readers obsessiveness, more moderation and inner peace, known and unknown, a person might create a problem. forInpatiently reading them. Many readers have appreciated the our inter-personal and ultimately greater fulfilment. “Less is more” relationships, we must be wise enough to distinguish between contentsaof the articles problem and aand some have told me that those articles is a biblical mantra, Pope Francis even suggests. In person. Mixing them up would dent human inter-personal have gone above theirThe relationships. heads. All the same, thank you to one and all. heads of institutions and communities must be careful not to equate problem withThe 8 Voice ofRemember a person. Delhi the famous one-liner: hate the sin but not the sinner.
musings of the month cOlVille De sOuza The Gifts from the Magi T he feast of the Epiphany in January, commemorates the visit of the three Kings, who followed the Star that led them to the child Jesus. This mysterious group is also known as the “Magi,” or more commonly called the “three wise men.”.” The word Epiphany means “manifestation” or “revelation”. So, the Three Wise Men are honoured on Epiphany because they represent the revelation of Jesus to the world. The story of the Three Wise Men or the Magi is given in the Gospel of Matthew wherein he describes three Wise Men as those from the East. Tradition tells us that the names of the three Wise Men were Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. Talk about diversity! The Three The Magi were willing to travel and go beyond their Magi, the three are of different ethnicities. There is an Armenian comfort zone. We can only imagine what they must tradition identifying the “Magi of Bethlehem” as Balthasar of have faced in their long journey in search of the Arabia, Melchior of Persia, and Gaspar of India. It reinforces the Newborn king, and yet they were tenacious. They idea, that Jesus has come for all. Race means nothing to God: what didn’t give up. They saw everything as a lesson and matters is one’s relationship with Him, and skin colour is a non- as a part of their search for the Newborn King. In starter. The whole idea of Jesus is to bring us together . this way, the Magi model the journey of faith for us. The Three Wise Men were told of Christ’s birth and set off, After paying homage to the new Messiah they were following the Star of Bethlehem, in search of the new born child. miraculously warned in a dream not to go back to King Although they are often called the ‘Three Kings’, the Bible does Herod, as he planned to kill Jesus. So, they returned not say that they were kings. The gospel however tells us that these to their home by an alternative route and so as not men from the East who visited the Christ child were sages, or wise to betray him to Herod. After this the Three Kings or learned. They found Jesus in the humblest of circumstances, vanish from history and not were not heard of again. but even in this infant, they recognized something royal, divine During the 4th century A.D, St. Helena, the mother and saving. They saw the child Jesus, and they were conquered, of the Roman emperor Constantine, embarked on overwhelmed, and overcome, by the grace and dignity of this a quest to locate the sacred relics the three Kings as humble child born of common parents. On seeing the child Jesus, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar were venerated as they “fell “ before Him and offered gifts that seem quite strange saints in the middle ages. The cathedral at Milan to give to a baby - gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. claimed to have their relics, brought from the imperial What is the significance of the gifts of gold, frankincense and city of Constantinople in the 5th century. These myrrh that these Wise Men offered to the child Jesus? It is relics were taken to Germany by Emperor Frederick reasoned that these gifts are symbols of who the baby was. Gold in 1162 and are now enshrined in Cologne Cathedral. is considered a gift for a king. It represents power and wealth and A large gilded sarcophagus was built to house these a symbol of Divinity. The child Jesus is royal and kingly. He is the remains. This reliquary, known as the Shrine of the King of Kings. Frankincense is a sweet perfume which was often Three Kings, is the largest reliquary in the Western burned in the temple to worship God. It is a sign that Jesus would world, and even today, draws pilgrims from all over be worshipped because this baby is God come to earth. Myrrh was to Cologne Cathedral. used in embalming the dead. It indicated the child’s humanity and The Star of Bethlehem is the word of God which, foreshadowed his suffering and death as Saviour of the world. It amidst of the uncertainty of human discourses, gives showed that Jesus would suffer and die. us the immense splendour of the Divine Truth. The Pope Francis said the Magi’s gifts to Jesus teach us three things. Magi saw the star in Bethlehem because they were “Gold “, he said means, “God must be given first place “and that constantly searching for something. They were we must adore him. Frankincense symbolizing our relationship seeking. If we keep seeking, it’s written that we will with the Lord, is an invitation to “burn” some time in prayer. find God and He will use whatever means necessary to And Myrrh, which will be used to perfume Jesus’ dead body in the communicate to us, so we can hear and understand. tomb, shows us the importance of helping our suffering brothers God has blessed us richly with so many gifts. It is and sisters. for us to best utilize our time, talents, and material possessions to benefit others. January 2021 9
Theology & Christian Life - 14 Sch. Wesley D’Costa SJ To Foster a Culture of Encounter – A Message from Fratelli Tutti I n his new encyclical Fratelli Tutti (FT – 3 October 2020), Pope Francis invites humanity to foster a ‘culture of encounter’ as opposed to the culture of clashes that is prevalent today. In India the word ‘encounter’ often brings to our mind the many instances of extrajudicial killings of ‘suspected criminals or terrorists’ by the police. In a positive sense, the word encounter signifies a beneficial meeting between two persons, two groups, two religions, or two cultures, which results in better understanding, more friendly relationship and increased cooperation between them. To speak of a “culture of encounter” means that we, as comfort them. This culture of encounter is in contrast to the ‘throw a people, should be passionate about meeting others, away culture’ or the ‘culture of indifference’ we see all around. seeking points of contact, building bridges, planning Isolation and withdrawal into one’s own interests are never the way to a project that includes everyone [FT 216]. Pope restore hope and bring about renewal. Rather, it is closeness; it is the Francis constantly encourages the church to be a culture of encounter. Isolation, no; closeness, yes. Culture clash, no; culture church that goes out to others. He emphasizes that of encounter, yes” [FT 30]. the church should not close in on itself; it should The Pope places before us the image of a polyhedron to help us rather take risks, go out into the world and meet appreciate the beauty of unity with differences. He says: “I have with others. God is present in other people, other frequently called for the growth of a culture of encounter capable of religions and other cultures in different ways. transcending our differences and divisions. This means working to create Therefore, when we go out and encounter others, a many-faceted polyhedron whose different sides form a variegated we encounter God in new ways. We are often unity, in which the whole is greater than the part” [FT 215]. He invites tempted to build a culture of walls—walls in our the world to propagate a culture of encounter. The way to do this is hearts and on our lands. The pope encourages us through dialogue. There may be many differences between persons, to move beyond the walls of our churches and our cultures and religions. Yet when we learn to coexist in society in an parishes in order encounter others out there. In the amicable manner, it turns out be a truly wonderful and enriching encounter we discover more clearly that we are all experience. We learn from each other in spite of our differences and children of one God, all brothers and sisters! disagreements. The Pope emphasizes the need to include those on As disciples of Jesus, we must imitate him who the periphery or on the margins of society in our encounter. There constantly crossed boundaries to encounter is a lot that we can learn from them too, because they are able to see others. We must first encounter Jesus Christ; it things from a perspective that those at the centre may not notice. will lead us out of ourselves to encounter others. In Fratelli Tutti invites us to create a new culture in which people are the encyclical Fratelli Tutti, the Pope presents the filled with a deep sense of care and concern for each other, in which parable of the Good Samaritan as an example of people who are indifferent to each other and may be divided on the encounter. When we become part of the culture of basis of various conflicting issues learn to resolve their conflicts. encounter, we do not just see but look, not just hear To cite one example close to us, the Karwan-e-Mohabbat led by but listen, not just pass by wounded people but stop social activists Harsh Mander, John Dayal and others, which aims and wait on them. In the gospels we find that when at healing the wounds of division between different communities, he encountered the poor, the suffering and the is a movement which seeks to promote such a culture of encounter. oppressed, Jesus was filled with compassion. His The task is difficult and goal is distant. What is important is to create encounters with them were marked by tenderness processes of encounter, processes that build a people that can accept and fruitfulness. As in the case of Jesus, Genuine differences. Let us arm our children with the weapons of dialogue! Let us encounter with the poor and suffering people will teach them to fight the good fight of the culture of encounter! [FT 217]. fill us with compassion and we will be moved to 10 The Voice of Delhi
speCiaL Saint of the Month Servant of God Mother Annammal The Foundress of the Sisters of St. Anne of Tiruchirapalli. Fr. Arokiya Raj J S ervant of God Mother Annammal is the foundress of religious congregation, the Sisters of St.Anne of Tiruchirapalli. Being a widow, she founded the congregation with nine widows on 2nd February 1858. The sole aim and unique purpose of Rev. Mother Annammal was uplifting the social status of poor, weak, marginalized and destitute young women, particularly widows from the unethical and evil forces of the society. The Congregation which was founded by her, canonically erected as a Diocesan Congregation in 1880 and elevated to Pontifical Status in 1977, has grown into a worldwide organization of Religious Women in the Catholic Church. Mother Annammal was born in 1836 at Varaganeri in Tiruchirapalli in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The parents of Annammal were devoted Catholic and she was brought up in staunch Catholic faith. After her elementary education in the village school, she expressed her desire and ambition to become a nun to her parents. Her parents were initially reluctant to accept the idea of their daughter to become a nun however they, conceded to her desire and ambition. At the age of 14 Annammal was admitted in a congregation in Pondicherry to become a nun. In spite of her good will, spirit, piety and obedience, she was not allowed to continue at the convent to become a nun. Because of her vicious and vibrant character, she was asked to leave the convent. She had to return home after two years of her active life in the novitiate and the convent in Pondicherry. She was not at all interested and showed no inclination to marry. However, her parents continued to persuade her to marry.Annammal out boldly to break away the shackles of widowhood and face finally got married at the age of 17. She started to live her the society courageously. Annammal went about begging to married life with her husband happily which unfortunately give some succor to the poor and the sick in the hospital. she did not last long. He died after six months of married life went to the church of Sakkiliars (cobblers), a group of people with Annammal. She became a widow and could not bear who were considered untouchable and looked down upon in the painful loss of her husband within a short period. She the society as they belonged to the low outcast, to attend to had conceived at the time of her husband’s death and that their prayers and to mingle with them freely and brought was her only consolation. As a widow, she lost all her the little children there together to instruct catechism. She respect and rights in her family and in the society. In the started to create awareness among the young widows and meantime, Annammal bore a girl child whom she named appealed to them to join her to serve the poor and breaking Teresa. the evil customs and orthodox conventions of the society. When she was at the age of 20, she inspired to become an Because of the act, she was mocked, ridiculed subjected instrument to work for the mission of God and to spread to severe criticism by the people of her place. However, his kingdom on earth. Leaving her little daughter Teresa Annammal continued her charitable work that inspired four in the house under the care of her parents and against other young widows they joined with her. She organized the tradition and custom that forbade the widows to come out four widows and they prayed together and doing service to of their homes into the society openly, Annammal came the people of Dharmanathapuram, a slum in Tiruchirappalli January 2021 11
where the Sakkiliars lived. They taught religious truth and prayed with YOUTH CORNER them and helped them begging. They cared and nursed the sick and old at homes and in the hospital and prayed Dear Fear, Get Out of Here. for them. Soon the people of the town started to appreciate Annammal and Nikhil George her companions for their work and Fear. service to the poor. The missionaries You stop me when I am on my way. working in Tirchirappalli and the You come knocking on my door when I beginning to step out. You chase me entire mission also came to know of around. their service. Many times, you bring me to my knees. Inspite of the success in her service to Fear. the poor and the oppressed, Annammal Of not being good enough. thought of nothing else but a convent Of falling short. for the widows. She along with the four Of being laughed at. widows approached the then Bishop Of being ridiculed. Alexis Canoz and requested to permit Of being judged. them to form into a community and Of being disrespected. establish a convent for themselves. Of not being accepted. Bishop Alexis Canoz explained to her Of being different. the financial and other difficulties Of being a hypocrite. to start a convent in Tiruchirappalli. Of being too loud. Annammal promised that she would Of being too silent. never ask any financial support the Of being too slow. Bishop and stated that “no money Of being too fast. but only the permission”. Bishop The fear of yesterday. was greatly impressed by her request The fear of tomorrow. and finally gave her permission. Thus, the convent for widows was But He’s got my back. established in Tiruchirappalli on 2 February 1858. Mgr. Alexis Conoz The one who was laughed at. named it, the Congregation of St. Anne Who was spat on. for widows under the patronage of Who was ridiculed. St. Anne. Annammal sowed the seed Who was mocked. for founding the congregation for Who was disrespected. widows for liberating them from the Who was slapped. shackles of inhuman and irrational Who was nailed. evil customs and social practices and Who was stripped. for empowering them. Annammal Who was killed. and her companions supported Who rose again. themselves and to the poor by what Who defeated it all. little they earned by pinning of paddy. With His Word. They never hesitated for any hard With His love. work and prepared for any sacrifice. With His life. Mother Annammal worked hard since 1877 to rejuvenate and direct the I know, I am in safe hands. congregation into the right direction. She was seriously ill in 1883 and died Fear may come in my way. on 8 June 1883 at the age of 47.She was But I just need to let my refuge takeover. declared Servant of God on 22nd April His peace wash over. 2017. His joy spill over. Servant of God Mother Annammal, Pray for us. With Him on my side, I know I can say, “Dear Fear, get out of here!” 12 The Voice of Delhi
Poulose Mangai, SJ O n December 8 Pope Francis surprised us with the like those of Mary at the Annunciation and Jesus in the proclamation of the Year of St. Joseph from 8 Dec Garden of Gethsemane. 2020 - 8 Dec 2021. The special Year will mark the 4. An accepting father: Joseph always accepted God’s plan 150th anniversary of the Declaration of St. Joseph as Patron for him. He accepted Mary unconditionally, trusting in the of the Universal Church by Pope Pius IX on 8 December 1870. angel’s words. He set aside his own ideas in order to accept According to the Vatican decree, the Year was proclaimed “in the course of events and make them part of his own history. order to perpetuate the entrustment of the whole Church to the powerful patronage of the Custos (Guardian) of Jesus.” 5. A creatively courageous father: St. Joseph was the man chosen by God to guide the beginnings of the history of On the occasion Pope Francis has written for us an Apostolic redemption. God acted by trusting in Joseph’s creative Letter entitled Patris corde (“with a father’s heart”). The courage. Several times the Gospel tells us that Joseph got up, Pope begins the Letter by saying that WITH A FATHER’S took the child and his mother, and did what God commanded HEART, St. Joseph loved Jesus. He quotes the memorable him (Mt 1:24; 2:14, 21). words of Pope St. Paul VI, who pointed out that St. Joseph concretely expressed his fatherhood “by making his life a 6. A working father: Saint Joseph was a carpenter who earned sacrificial service to the mystery of the incarnation and its an honest living to provide for his family. From him, Jesus redemptive purpose. … He turned his human vocation to learned the value, the dignity and the joy of what it means domestic love into a superhuman oblation of himself, his to eat bread that is the fruit of one’s own labour. The Pope heart and all his abilities, a love placed at the service of the asks us to pray to Saint Joseph the Worker so that no young Messiah who was growing to maturity in his home.” These person, no person at all, no family should be without work. words actually way sums up the role he played in God’s plan 7. A father in the shadows: In his relationship to Jesus, Joseph of salvation. The Pope offers some beautiful and inspiring was the earthly shadow of the heavenly Father: he watched reflections on St. Joseph, some of which are presented over him and protected him Joseph never made himself the below. centre of things. He did not think of himself, but focused 1. A beloved father: St. Joseph is a beloved father and the instead on the lives of Mary and Jesus. He found happiness Christians have always venerated him as a father. not in mere self-sacrifice but in self-gift. Our world today needs fathers like Joseph, not tyrants. 2. A tender and loving father: St. Joseph was a tender and loving father to Jesus who saw in him the tender love of The Pope hopes that this Apostolic Letter will increase God. He teaches us that faith in God includes believing that our love for this great saint and encourage us to implore God can work even through our fears and our weaknesses. his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal. He He also teaches us that amid the tempests of life, we must concludes it with a short prayer to St. Joseph: Hail, Guardian never be afraid to let the Lord steer our course. of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. To you God entrusted his only Son;in you Mary placed her trust; with you 3. An obedient father. “When Joseph awoke from sleep, he Christ became man. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a did as the angel of the Lord commanded him” (Mt 1:24). St. father and guide us in the path of life. Obtain for us grace, mercy Joseph was always obedient to God whatever the hardship and courage, and defend us from every evil. Amen. involved. In every situation, Joseph declared his own “fiat”, January 2021 13
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