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Mary, Mother of Hope Part 2 “No one can grow if he does not accept his smallness.” Marriage encounter... pg 6 pg 10 – Pope Francis Pope Francis encourages SXUKAA observes Philanthropy Day participation in 2021 Season G. P. GUPTA St. Xavier’s University young widow, who presently Kolkata Alumni Association supports her two children by of Creation (SXUKAA) celebrated the d o i n g m i n o r birthday of its President Rev. tailoring/stitching jobs. Fr. John Felix Raj, SJ on A COVID Vaccination drive Thursday, 26thAugust, 2021 was organised on Sunday, as “Philanthropy Day”. 29th August, 2021 at Gurap Rev. Fr. President was (Hooghly District) primarily felicitated by members of for the rural and tribal SXUKAA and SXUKAA. On population of the area. this occasion, alumni A video showing the various recommitted themselves for philanthropic activities the cause of social welfare. undertaken by St. Xavier’s On this auspicious day, Fr. University Kolkata Alumni President handed over a Association during the year

The ecumenical celebration of stressed that the “cry of the Scotland. It also comes on the the 2021 Season of earth and the cry of the poor heels of a dismal, recently- Creation—themed “A home for are becoming increasingly released UN climate report all? Renewing the Oikos of serious and alarming,” urging which makes it clear that we God”—runs from 1 September, Catholics to take “decisive, are running out of time to avert the World Day of Prayer for the urgent action to transform this the worst effects of the Care of Creation, through 4 crisis into an opportunity.” ecological crisis and the October, the feast day of St. Furthermore, at the weekly climate emergency. Francis of Assisi, the patron General Audience on Wednes- Participating in the Season of Creation saint of ecology. day, he recalled the celebration A statement from the Laudato During this annual celebration of the World Day of Prayer for Si’ Movement further invites cheque for the eye opera- was shown. The Alumni of prayer and action for our the Care of Creation, and the participation in the “annual common home, Christians beginning of the Season of celebration of prayer and tion of Mrs. Laxmi Bag, a 78 Identity Card was also across the globe will come Creation. He noted that a action for our common home,” year old lady who is in the unveiled on this day by Rev. together for a time of message for the occasion - to pointing out that Christians urgent need of the same. Fr. President. The first restoration and hope, and to be released in coming days - make up more than 25 percent Mrs. Bag is a roadside tea- Alumni ID Card was handed discover radically new ways of had been prepared together of the world’s population, and seller, who was disposed of over to Rev. Fr. President by living with creation. with Ecumenical Patriarch “they truly have the potential her own house by her sons the Hony. Secretary of Pope Francis invites Batholomew and Justin Welby, to change their communities who do not look after her. SXUKAA, Mr. Vatsal participation the Archbishop of Canterbury. and the world for good during Pope Francis has called on “Together with our brothers the next five weeks.” Rev. Fr. President also Chirimar. Catholics to take action for our and sisters of different Chris- The 2021 Season of Creation handed over supplies of Rev. Fr. President gave an common home during the tian denominations, let us pray will be officially launched with nourishment food emotional speech on the Season of Creation. In the Pope and work for our common a global ecumenical prayer supplements for 50 occasion. The program was Video for the month of home in these times of grave service on Wednesday, broad- pregnant and lactating followed by High-tea. September, he encourages planetary crisis,” the Pope said. cast live on the Season of Crea- tion’s social media channels. women belonging to the everyone to question the way The 2021 Season of Creation economically weaker comes just a few weeks before The prayer service will feature we live, and to turn “towards prayers from the tradition of section of society. lifestyles that are simpler and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), Native American Christians, A professional sewing more respectful of the inviting attendees to more fully environment.” scheduled to take place from machine was also handed November 1-12 in Glasgow, explore the theme of this year’s The Holy Father has also celebrations. over to Ms. Mamata Das, a 02 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Church in Syro-Malabar, from Chhattisgarh, a hundred November 28 the Hindu extremists attack Vol.157 (CLVII) No.34 Kolkata Sep 03 - Sep 09, 2021 'uniform' rite a Pentecostal E-mail: clheraldadvertisement@gmail Delhi (AsiaNews) - New the sacred scriptures ”. The .com violence against Christians in crowd, the official concludes, [email protected] India, where a pastor of a "beat pastor Paraste and also Office 10, Government Place Pentecostal church has beaten up his family, including East, Kolkata - 700 069. suffered a brutal attack by over women, and then fled". Phone: 033-2248-1457 100 Hindu radicals. As activist The police have opened an (M) 9007397107 Sajan K George, president of investigation, but more than 24 Visitors: the Global Council of Indian hours after the attack there are THE HERALD Christians (Gcic) explains to no suspects and the affair, like Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary AsiaNews , the assault took others in the past concerning 15, Portuguese Church Street place yesterday in the village of attacks against Christians and Kolkata - 700 001 Polmi, a rural area in the district other minorities, risks ending in of Kabirdham, in the state of nothing. Hence the harsh ADVERTISEMENT RATES Chhattisgarh. condemnation of George, who Classifieds: Rs 15/- per word Behind the violence against the once again denounces the (minimum 30 words) 25-year-old Kawalsingh escalation of "violence, Display B/W: Rs 75/- per col. cm. Paraste there would be "the discrimination and denial of Display Col. Rs 100/- per col.cm. false accusation of having the free practice of worship". (AsiaNews) - Despite during the entire rite. . In a B/W Full Page Rs 10,000 promoted activities aimed at "India is a secular nation, but strong opposition from some letter sent on July 3 to the Syro- conversion". A note from the the Indians, especially in B/W Half Page Rs 6,000 of the clergy and the faithful , Malabar Church, Pope Francis police, who intervened shortly Chattisgarh, are used to suffer B/W Quarter Page Rs 3,000 the Synod of Syro-Malabar wrote that "the Holy See looks after the attack, explains that violations of religious Colour Full Page Rs 14,000 bishops has chosen to move with particular approval and the assailants "devastated the freedom." The extremists, Colour Half Page Rs 8,000 forward in the path of a encouragement to the property and beat up the explains the president of the Colour Quarter Page Rs 4,000 uniform way of celebrating the agreement reached pastor's family". GCIC, “broke into the house, Prayers Rs 750 / 1000 Holy Qurbana, the Eucharistic unanimously by the Synod of committed deliberate acts of Advertisements booked liturgy of this Eastern rite. At Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Mohit Garg, superintendent of violence even against women the conclusion of the work Church in 1999 - and against prepayment. Kabirdham police, reports that and deeply wounded our yesterday evening, the repeatedly confirmed in SUBSCRIPTION RATES “immediately after receiving religious feelings, tearing up archbishop-major of the Syro- subsequent years - for a Annual Subscription: Rs 300/- the alert call, a team rushed to scriptures and sacred books. Malabar, Cardinal George uniform way of celebrating the Life: Individual: Rs 8,000/- the scene with the utmost The Indian Christian Alencherry "according to the Holy Qurbana, considering it Life: Institution: Rs 10,000/- unanimous decision of the an important step towards the Foreign Annual Subscription Synod" issued a decree growth of ecclesial stability (Airmail):Rs 2225/- (US$75/-, establishing that from and communion within the £50/-) November 28, the first Sunday entire body of your beloved Subscription Mailing Address: of Advent, it will be adopted in Church ". THE HERALD, all eparchies the "uniform" The decree issued at the end of Cathedral of Most Holy Rosary rite. the Synod provides for the 15, Portuguese Church St. This modality foresees that in possibility of some exceptions the first part of the celebration for a limited period, which KOLKATA - 700 001 and in the liturgy of the Word must end with next Easter, INDIA the priest is turned towards the April 17, 2022. "The bishops of ATTENTION SUBSCRIBERS faithful, and then turns some eparchies who have towards the altar ("in the expressed their difficulties in AND ADVERTISERS! direction in which the faithful implementing the decision in For Advertisements and also look") in the central part, the whole eparchies - reads the Subscription payments you that of the consecration and of decree - will be able to the Eucharistic rites. Finally, in introduce the uniform method are requested to contact The the concluding part, after of celebration on November Manager, The Herald, at communion, the celebrant 28, 2021, starting from urgency. According to population - concludes the Cathedral of The Most Holy will once again look towards cathedrals, places of preliminary information - activist - is only a minuscule Rosary, 15 Portuguese Church the assembly. pilgrimage, religious continues the policeman - 2.3%, which demonstrates how Street, Kolkata - 700 001 The solution adopted follows communities, parishes where about a hundred people broke much the denunciations and –- Editor the indication that had already possible, minor seminaries into his home and damaged accusations of conversion of NOTE TO WRITERS emerged in 1999 and was and other training centers. objects of worship and the Hindus are in reality just approved by the Congregation T h r o u g h a n e f f e c t i v e household utensils, tearing up miserable propaganda ”. All material may be edited for the Eastern Churches, but catechesis, the uniform for the sake of space, clarity or had met strong resistance modality can be gradually editorial policy. features, especially in those introduced in the entire communities where the liturgy eparchy as soon as possible articles should not exceed 600 currently takes place with the and in any case no later than words, while reports should celebrant facing the faithful Easter 2022 ”. be within 300 words. All submission should be made through email. Reports should accompany appro- priate photographs. Deadline to submit articles is Sunday, for reports Monday evening, and for advertisements Tuesday12 noon. -Editor Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 03 Church in the World Pakistani Christians call on West to Cardinal Bo denounces rescue Afghan minorities Myanmar's “leaders” who zing in Jalalabad, the Afghan fail in their responsibilities city that lies less than 200 kilo- meters from Kurram, his Myanmar’s leading Catholic and the life of the nation”, hometown in Pakistan's Khy- Churchman has lashed out marked by love. ber Pakhtunkhwa province. against the “so-called leaders “The deaths and despair of the “I do not see any international of the time” saying they have last seven months are based on concern for them. They have “failed in their leadership roles the laws and regulations of the been rejected. The new gover- and responsibilities ” . head”, which, he said, are pitted nment is known for breaking Delivering a homily at Mass on against the people’s ‘heart’, its promises and agreements. Sunday at the St. Mary’s which symbolizes “love”. “Go Religious minorities are not Cathedral, Cardinal Charles Bo beyond the law into love: move safe anymore,” he said. used the day’s scr ipture from the legalistic, law-oriented According to conservative readings to expose the mind towards love-oriented political commentator Glenn country’s “leaders”, saying heart,” the cardinal urged, Beck, the Nazarene Fund has they have sown death and adding that the heart, which is Christian activists in Pakistan now under Taliban control. Are flown 5,100 Christians and despair in Myanmar by pitting the source of defilement, as are urging the international they equal citizens or paying other refugees out of the laws and regulations of Jesus says, needs cleansing. community to save minority jizya [a tax on non-Muslims]? Afghanistan since it fell to the t h e i r ‘ h e a d ’ a g a i n s t t h e Life-long journey from the head communities in Afghanistan What about those left physi- Taliban this month. He people’s ‘heart’. to the heart amid the withdrawal of US cally handicapped in the war?” claimed Afghan Christians Eighteen months of Covid-19 Physically,the distance between forces. Christians in Afghanistan were among the scores killed in with loss of life and livelihood, the head and the heart, the “There has been no statement number 10,000 to 12,000. Most the suicide bomb attack that 7 months of civil strife, cardinal pointed out, is only on non-Muslim Afghans. We are converts from Islam. For ripped through the crowd just disappointment, death and about 18 inches, but the journey condemn dual standards on decades they have largely outside one of airport’s despair, he said, are “the litany from the head, full of concepts, vulnerable groups. The West practiced their faith gates last week. of natural and man-made laws and ideas to a heart full of seems to use human rights as a underground as conversion is Former US Congressman Mark political agenda. They considered a crime punishable Walker has alleged that a highlight minority persecution by death under Sharia law. Christian Afghan was skinned in targeted countries alone,” According to Pastor Irfan alive and hanged from a pole Sabir Michael, a human rights James, who visited the Shahr-e by theTalibanon Aug. 7. activist and professor at the Naw neighborhood in Kabul Balpreet Singh, legal counsel University of Karachi, told UCA last December, most Chris- and spokesperson for the Wor- News. tians have fled Afghanistan's ld Sikh Organization, estima- “We are not sure about the main cities. Since 2015, the tes that fewer than 200 Sikhs status of religious minorities missionary has been evangeli- are left in Afghanistan. UCAN Irish government seeks help to solve housing crunch some property owned by their diocese, and religious orders and other Catholic disasters” that have extended love is a lifelong journey. organizations can have their “a long night of silent tears” of “Authenticity is achieved when own property holdings. the people of Myanmar. He there is harmony between the O’Brien’s letter acknowledged was referring to the woes of the head and the heart”, from being Church independence in southeast Asian nation “a Pharisees to the disciple of managing its properties and following the military coup of J e s u s ” , from oppressive said that it is primarily the February 1 that deposed the governments to the Kingdom of state’s duty to address the elected government of Aung God, from untruth to truth. housing crisis. In remarks last week, he said the government San Suu Kyi. However, the Cardinal Bo urged his fellow plans to place a “massive cardinal, who is president of citizens to rebuild themselves emphasis” on affordable the Catholic Bishops b y “ bringing the housing, promising a program Conference of Myanmar compassionate heart into our for Ireland “on a scale never (CBCM), regarded the people lives”. The dichotomy between seen before.” as great as they are “armed with the head and the heart of “those In his letter to Archbishop personal morality and who rule us “ he said, has only Dublin: Ireland’s housing regarding unused land and Martin, O’Brien cited the arch- generosity”. “brought great agony”. minister has contacted the properties, the Irish Times bishop’s previous remarks on The head and the heart Alluding to the country’s junta Archbishop of Armagh reports. He suggested that this the housing crisis as well as the The 72-year-old cardinal drew that is buying weapons from “all suggesting that the Catholic Church cooperation should remarks of Archbishop attention to the Letter of St. over the world” to consolidate Church could better organize adopt a nationwide scope. Dermot Farrell of Dublin. He James, which urges Christians its hold on power,” Cardinal Bo property sales to address a Among his suggestions are said the Church is aware of the to be doers of the Word and not urged, “let us arm ourselves major housing shortfall, with allowing the state to have the “need for strong action” given just hearers, and Mark’s with love for one another”. tens of thousands of new first option to purchase Catho- homelessness, a crisis facing Gospel, where Jesus True authenticity,” he added, homes needing to be built. lic entities’ lands or buildings renters, and young families denounces the legalistic “comes ultimately through Darragh O’Brien, Ireland’s for sale through Church coop- who need housing. observance of the law against love.” Minister for Housing, has sent eration with local councils, In recent years Catholic the commandment of love and a letter to Archbishop Eamon housing bodies, or Ireland’s entities in Ireland have been compassion. The Pharisees selling some property in Don’t miss an issue! Martin of Armagh for help in Land Development Agency. and scribes had challenged multi-million dollar deals, in identifying Church-owned It is unclear how much Jesus as His disciples had not Subscribe to part to support aging religious land or vacant buildings that Catholic-owned property communities. Before the cleaned themselves before could be used for housing. could be available for housing. pandemic, Catholic church eating. Cardinal Bo said the O’Brien, a member of the There is no centralized entity readings call for a person’s that owns Catholic Church attendance and vocations to Fianna Fáil party, said that the priesthood and religious journey “from the head to the some dioceses have engaged property. Local bishops have hear t”, “towards greater significant influence over life had declined significantly with local authorities over previous decades. authenticity in personal life 04 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Editorial Rene Girard - Afghanistan's Mimetic Theory In the context of Afghanistan service), created & nurtured conflict seeks a release by imbroglio, Anandabazar Talibans mainly on Pakistan identifying a scapegoat. A third Patrika editorial of 28th August soil and trained them with party—often a foreigner, a Vol. 157 (CLVII) No. 34 • KOLKATA • Sep 03 - Sep 09, 2021 mentioned, "Mimetic Theory" advanced weaponry. By president/prime minister, a book written by the French February 1989 US effected someone who is differently- Is it the right time to Reopen Schools? Historian, philosopher of complete withdrawal of the abled or a woman —is blamed Several States in India are in a hurry to open the Schools and get social science and polymath Soviet Union and its and demonized for having our Children back to School. Is it the right time to reopen the Rene Girard (December 1923- disintegration in December caused the conflict. Scapegoats Schools? This question is looming large in the minds of parents November 2015). 1991. Following 09/11/2001 are not seen as innocent victims; and school authorities at this moment. Some schools have According to Mr Girard: strike on the twin towers in they are seen as the cause of the already reopened from September while other schools are "Man/woman is the creature New York, US army invaded disorder. The calls for the making arrangements and walking cautiously weighing the pros who does not know what to Afghanistan in full fury sacrificial victim reach a and cons. desire, and he/she turns to ostensibly to hunt down crescendo through mob frenzy Dr. Naresh Trehan, chairman of Medanta, has raised an alarm others in order to make up Osama Bin Laden, leader of engineered by vested interests. over reopening of schools throughout the country. The senior his/her mind. We desire what terrorist group Al-Queda and The mob prevails (Jesus’ doctor advocated for vaccination of children before they be sent others desire because we remained in Afghanistan till crucifixion). The victim is killed, to schools. Dr. Tehan also questioned as to what was the reason imitate their desires." He said recently. Both the Soviet Union exiled or pilloried. Rivals to rush into reopening of schools. He further cautioned the we may think that all our and USA wanted to get hold of reconcile, and peace & unity are schools to have patience for few more months and children get vaccinated and go to schools than to rush and open schools. thoughts or desires are of our the same object- Afghanistan. restored, once the spoils are The Centre’s on its part has allocated 2 crore coronavirus own free will but in reality we Both left in ignominy. mutually worked out in advance vaccine doses for universal coverage of all teaching and non- are allowing others’ desires or The key to Mr Girard's by vested interests, as the US, teaching staff in schools and has asked the teaching and non- behavioural pattern make an anthropological theory is Russia and China are now doing. teaching staff to get immunized byTeachers’ Day (September 5). imprint on us. Others could be Scapegoat Mechanism which To them the Afghans are agreed It is encouraging that half of the 97 lakh teachers in the country an icon, a movie star, a means societies/countries upon sacrificial lambs as were have already been immunised, by official estimates, making it sportsperson, a statesman or unify their imitative desires to the hapless victims of 2002 feasible to reach the rest by September 5. The risk of infection to even a community/cult which collectively destroy an agreed Carnage. children in schools remains, however, and must be addressed makes an indelible imprint on upon Scapegoat. In this case Mr Rene Girard’s contention with utmost seriousness, particularly with fast-transmitting mindset. The problem occurs the scapegoat is Afghanistan was: Religion is not the cause of virus variants present in all States. when our unified desire is to and earlier Iraq and Syria where violence (but some religious What is the situation of the vaccine that is available for our grab the same object by hook two major world powers US leaders are!) and that Christia- children in India? or crook. In the process we and Russia played in tandem. nity is the best antidote to Zycov-D (Zydus Cadila): Many of you must not have heard about become each other’s enemy. Just as cumulative desires violence. If this is true, then why this vaccination.Well this an Ahemdabad based pharmaceutical Envy, resentment and conflict compete for the same object, do Christian-dominated count- company which have come up for Covid-19 vaccination for are the inevitable violence tends to converge on ries manufacture, stockpile and children in India. consequences of this drive the same victim. The violence export weapons of mass Zydus Cadila has received approval from the Drugs Controller toward mimesis. Conflict of all against all results in the destruction, including nuclear General of India (DCGI) for ZyCOV-D, the world's first and occurs whenever two or more violence of all against one. arsenal? It's the USA which has India's indigenously developed DNA-based vaccine for Covid- "mimetic rivals" want the "When we describe human according to the international 19 and hope to start Covid vaccine trials for children aged 2-12 same thing, which only one relations, we lie," Mr Girard media, left behind 80+ billion years very soon. After completing the trial success, the Zydus Cadila Zycov-D person can have at a time. It said. "We describe them as US dollars worth of sophisti- Covid19 vaccine is approved in India for children in the age might be a prime ministership normally good, peaceful and so cated weapons, for the Talibans group of 12-18. It is a Needle-Free Vaccine that is expected to or chief ministership forth, whereas in reality they to exterminate ordinary avail from October onwards. (Chhattisgarh case), or a lover. are competitive, in a war-like Afghans and also sell them at Moderna: This name must not be heard by many but this has The editorial cited the Soviet fashion." Mimetic theory helps windfall profit to other terrorist been the most effective covid-19 vaccination for Children till Union which had captured a society/country analyse the groups, Pakistan included. now. The US has approved this vaccination for children. Thus it Afghanistan in December causes of conflict, violence and By the way, do our food habits has shown all safety points for children to use as Covid-19 1979. To oust its arch enemy, the rampant use of scape- (vegan or non-vegetarian) have vaccination. Children of age group 12 to 17 are safe to use the US joined hands with goating by individuals any correlation to envy and Moderna as Vaccination for Covid-19. There have been several Saudi Arabia and ISI /communities/countries. violence? meetings and talks between delegates to bring this vaccination ( Pa k i s t a n ’ s intelligence On a societal level, such —ISAACHAROLDGOMES to India for Children after its safe clinical trials on Indian children. Covaxin: As you know that this Covid-19Vaccination is a product of Bharat Biotech. Thus DCGI has started trials on children of different age groups. The Covaxin trail on Children in India is already going on in AIIMS Patna. Pfizers: It is already a bit famous vaccination in many countries like India, US, EU, UK. In the second and first wave, this vaccination was approved byWHO on an emergency basis for its usage. Now AIIMS director also said that Pfizer is not only effective on adults but will also be as effective as on children. In other countries, the jabs of Pfizers have been given to children and it tends to be a safe vaccine over there. In India, it is still under trial. Sputnik V: Sputnik-V vaccination is been waited for long in India. This is the first vaccination in India with a single dose. Thus, recently director Gamaleya National Research Center quoted that Sputnik-V will soon start their trials on children according to their age and weight. While there has been concern about the third wave targeting children, many experts are of the opinion that children's in-built immunity will protect them from the virus. Parents are of the **************** DISCLAIMER ***************** opinion that they have waited for one and half years and can © 2018 The Herald. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction is authorised provided the source is acknowledged; wait for some more months till all their children inoculated and exceptinthecaseofthird-partytextualorartisticmaterial,whereuseisexpresslyprohibited. safely attend classes in a face to face mode. Only coming days The information and views contained in The Herald are those of the individual author(s) / contributors and do will prove whether the decision to reopen schools in a rush was not reflect the official opinion of The Herald. Neither The Herald nor its owners, publishers or affiliated beneficial or putting the life of our children at risk. institutions and bodies nor any person acting on their behalf may be held responsible for content published or ---Fr.DevrajFernandes,Editor theuseofthecontentcontainedinthepublication. Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 05 Liturgy Sunday St. Gregory the Great

Saint Gregory the Great Roman senator. His mother the cathedral of the holy (540 – 12 March, 604 AD) Silvia, who is also a saint, Apostle Peter in theVatican. Feast Day: 3 September raised him with a strong Saint Gregory is one of the four “There are some so restless that catholic faith. great Latin doctors of the Twenty Third Sunday Ordinary Time (Sept 05) when they are free from labour Saint Gregory received a great church along with Saint they labour all the more, education and was trained in Ambrose, Saint Augustine and Is 35:4-7a; Jas 2:1-5; Mk 7:31-37 because the leisure they have law. Before joining the Saint Jerome). Upon his death Introduction: Today’s readings offer two challenges: 1) Become for thought, the worse interior Benedictine monks, he had he was named a saint by humble instruments of healing in Jesus’ hands by giving voice to the turmoil they have to bear.” held an extremely important popular acclaim and is voiceless and caring love to the needy and the marginalized in our Pope Saint Gregory I, also position of the Prefect of the remembered for his moral society. 2) Open your ears to hear the word of God, open your eyes to known as the Great, was the city of Rome. But he gave up theology that shaped see God’s presence in everyone, and loosen your tongue to praise Pope from 3 September, 590 to his civilian life to become a medieval spirituality. He is and worship God loudly and to convey the Good News of God’s love 12 March, 604 AD. He is monk. Over the years he admired as a great and and salvation to others. considered to be the founder of became a cardinal and then observant guardian of the Scripture lessons summarized: In the first reading (Is 35:4-7), the the medieval papacy as he one of the most influential Church's doctrine. prophet Isaiah reminds us that God’s eyes are constantly focused on strengthened the papacy and popes the Church has ever He is one of the most admired the helpless. “He comes to save you.Then will the eyes of the blind be worked for clerical and known. Popes in history who called opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a monastic reform. After becoming a monk Saint himself the “servant of the stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.” Born in sixth century Rome, Gregory founded six servants of God”. His humble Today’s Responsorial Psalm (Ps 146) sings of a God who gives sight to Saint Gregory was an excellent monasteries in Sicily. He lived demeanour as the pope has the blind, raises up those who are bowed down and welcomes student. He was the son of a in Rome during a period of always provided steadfast strangers. wealthy Sicilian (Gordianus) wars, invasions by hostile inspiration to his successors. That is why, in today’s second reading (Jas 2:1-5), the apostle gives us who owned large estates in tribes, famine, and He is the true example of a holy some basic and challenging principles of social justice. He exhorts Sicily and a mansion in Rome. destruction. He died in the Pope. Christians to show no partiality based on external appearance and to His father was a wealthy year 604, and his relics rest in —ByJUBILEECARDOZO practice God’s “preferential option” for the poor. He warns the faithful against scorning or shaming the poor while showing special The Chair of the Priest Celebrant consideration to the rich. Today’s Gospel describes how Jesus, by healing a deaf man with Q: Could you tell me the correct speech impediment, fulfilled Isaiah’s Messianic prophecy, “The eyes position for the presidential of the blind shall be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.” The chair in a normal, albeit small, ailments listed by Isaiah are symbolic of our interior illnesses: sanctuary? Our sanctuary is blindness to the needs of our neighbor, unwillingness to hear God’s about to be reordered (long voice and the inability to speak words of praise, apology, forgiveness, overdue!), but there is a and gratitude. Through this miracle story, Mark also reminds us that difference of opinion as to the no one can be a follower of the Lord without reaching out to the correct position — and I helpless. cannot find an authoritative Life messages: 1) We need to allow Jesus to heal our spiritual source for the answer. — R.E., deafness, muteness, and blindness. We may find it hard to speak to Southwark, England God in prayer and harder still to hear Him speaking to us through the A: The precise location of the Bible and through the Church. Let us ask God’s help to open our ears chair is not definitively so that we may hear Him while reading the Bible, and praise and determined in any official worship Him loudly in our family prayer and in our public worship by for the celebration in choir for other ministers by its document. It also will depend actively participating in the Holy Mass, singing with the choir and dress but who are not design and placement. 'The on other factors such as the praying with the congregation. Jesus’ compassionate touch will help location of the tabernacle. concelebrating. seat for the deacon should be "The seat for the deacon placed near that of the us to hear the cries of the poor and the sick, and to show kindness, The General Instruction of the mercy and consideration to others. His healing touch will also help Roman Missal, No. 310, should be placed near that of celebrant.' In the cathedral, in the celebrant. Seats for the addition to the bishop's chair us convey peace and hope to those around us. regarding "The Chair for the 2) We need to help Jesus to heal the deaf and the mute today. Let us Priest Celebrant and Other other ministers are to be arran- or 'cathedra,' which is lend Jesus our hands to give the touch that heals the sick. Let us lend Seats," states: ged so that they are clearly permanent, an additional Jesus our tongues to speak to the spiritually hungry through us. Let "The chair of the priest distinguishable from those for chair will be needed for use by us lend Jesus our hearts to touch the lives of people in our day celebrant must signify his the clergy and so that the mini- the rector or priest celebrant. through us, just as Jesus touched the lives of millions through saintly office of presiding over the sters are easily able to fulfill the "§ 64 .The [chair] is not used by souls like St. Francis of Assisi, St. Damien of Molokai, St. Vincent de gathering and of directing the function entrusted to them." a lay person who presides at a Paul, St. Jeanne Jugan, and St.Teresa of Calcutta (MotherTeresa). prayer. Thus the best place for The U.S. bishops also touch on service of the word with Com- Homily Starter: The “little monk” Telemachus who opened blind the chair is in a position facing this subject in their official munion or a Sunday celebra- the people at the head of the guidelines, "Built of Living tion in the absence of a priest. eyes of an empire: At the Annual National Prayer Breakfast on sanctuary, unless the design of Stones," Nos. 63-65. Apart (Cf. Congregation for Divine February 2, 1984, Ronald Reagan, the former president of the United the building or other from repeating the norms Worship, Directory for Sunday States, told the old story of “the little monk,” Telemachus, a martyr circumstances impede this: for contained in the Missal, it adds Celebrations in the Absence of whose self-sacrificial commitment to Christian ideals opened the example, if the great distance some further considerations: a Priest [1988], no. 40.)" blind eyes and deaf ears of the Romans and their fifth century would interfere with "§ 63 The chair of the priest From these indications it Christian Emperor Honorius. According to the story, this Turkish communication between the celebrant stands 'as a symbol should be possible to decide monk was led by an inner voice to go to Rome in order to stop the priest and the gathered of his office of presiding over the most appropriate location cruel and inhuman gladiatorial fights between slaves. He followed assembly, or if the tabernacle is the assembly and of directing of the chair in accordance with the crowds to the Coliseum where two gladiators were fighting. He in the center behind the altar. prayer.' An appropriate the concrete situation of the jumped into the arena and tried to stop them, shouting, “In the name Any appearance of a throne, placement of the chair allows sanctuary. of Christ, hold back!” The gladiators stopped, but the spectators however, is to be avoided. It is the priest celebrant to be In theory the most appropriate became indignant. A group of them rushed into the arena and beat appropriate that, before being visible to all in the congrega- position, as the documents Telemachus to death. When the crowd saw the brave little monk put into liturgical use, the chair tion. The chair reflects the state, is behind the altar facing lying dead in a pool of blood, they fell silent, leaving the stadium, one be blessed according to the rite dignity of the one who leads the people. There are certainly by one. Three days later, because of Telemachus’ heroic sacrifice of described in the Roman Ritual. the community in the person some fine examples of this his own life, the Emperor decreed an end to the games. — In today’s "Likewise, seats should be of Christ, but is never intended distribution, especially in Gospel, which describes the miraculous healing of a deaf mute, we arranged in the sanctuary for to be remote or grandiose. The some newer churches as well are invited to open our ears and eyes, loosen our tongues and pray for concelebrating priests as well priest celebrant's chair is as some venerable ancient the courage of our Christian convictions to become the voice of the as for priests who are present distinguished from the seating ones.---Zenit voiceless. — Fr. Anthony Kadavil 06 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Archdiocese COVID Vaccination Camp at Gurap Marriage Encounter VATSAL CHIRIMAR Program CYNTHIA BECK SXUKAA were also present on the occasion. Fr. John Felix Raj commended the efforts of SXUKAA. He particularly appreciated the fact that an effort was made to reach out to the rural areas. Fr. Felix Raj also expressed his gratitude to Siddhartha Shankar Ray Foundation for sponsoring the camp and to AMRI Hospital for the medical arrangements. Mr. Rajesh Chirimar expressed his gratitude to Fr. John Felix Raj, SJ and the Jesuit Community of Gurap Kolkata: Holy Family Center, present themselves to God, Dharamtala hosted Marri- pure, holy and acceptable to Kolkata: St. Xavier ’ s John Felix Raj, SJ, Hon’ble for the opportunity. He also age Encounter program on God, reflecting on University Kolkata Alumni Vice Chancellor, St. Xavier’s assured his full support Sunday, 29th August, 2021. Proverbs15:4 “Kind word Association (SXUKAA) University, Kolkata and towards more such Some 17 couples spent bring life, but cruel words organised a COVID President, SXUKAA. endeavours. some quality time together. crush your spirit.” The group Vaccination Camp in Fr. Vinay Kerketta, SJ, It is noteworthy to mention It was a day of grace for all interacted with each other collaboration with Headmaster, St. Xavier’s that in the last few months, the couples from the City during the lunch break. Siddhartha Shankar Ray School, Gurap, Fr. Mourlin St. Xavier’s University, Parishes. Some of the cou- Fr. Gnana Peppin in the Foundation at St. Xavier’s Franklin, SJ, Assistant Kolkata and St. Xavier’s ples brought their children interactive session spoke on School, Gurap on Sunday, Professor, Xavier Business University Kolkata Alumni along, who were kept busy “Making your marriage your 29th August, 2021 for the School, Mr. Rajesh Association have with some activities and top priority.” The session benefit of the rural and Chirimar, Secretary, undertaken a number of games by Judy Rego. The began with the couples tribal population of the Siddhartha Shankar Ray initiatives in response to session began with Praise ranking the top five priorities area. A total of 248 people Foundation and Member, the outbreak of COVID-19 and worship beautifully led their spouses would be received their dose of Board of Administrators, including setting up of a by Maria Menezes, ranking them with. The pairs Covishield Vaccine on the Municipal Safe-Home inside the remembering the very got themselves busy finding day. Corporation and Mr. Vatsal University campus and words of Jesus in Mathew out how much they knew The camp was blessed by Fr. Chirimar, Hony. Secretary, various vaccination drives. 18:20 Where two or three each other. Some of the come together in my name, I couples shared their Indian Sisters for the Season of am there with them. evaluation on each other, Inviting the couples to focus some felt they knew their Creation on Jesus by the renewal of spouses well while some felt their minds and make Jesus they need to spend more (AsiaNews) - From 1 time to get to know each the centre of every family, September to 4 October, the other better together. The Christopher and Sandra feast of St. Francis, the enthusiastic couples then Godfrey shared an inspiring Church, at the instigation of went on to a HEART-TO- message on family life. Pope Francis, is celebrating HEART session on - getting Urging the couples to spend the "Season of Creation". my priorities straight. The quality time together maybe The Congregation of the session ended with all of go on a holiday and also Sisters of the Cross of them writing down the Chavanod have decided to appreciate encourage each Priority Number One of their take up this challenge in other. The couples listened lives and how they would India, animating a special with great Enthusiasm how work it out. The Marriage celebration in communion to face the different phases Encounter program will take with Christians from all of family life. place regularly in other continents. It is a time - as the During the Holy Eucharist languages too. Thanks to Sr. pope explains - "to renew the couples sat beside each Alma and Fr. Peppin for our faith in the God of other and were given some strengthening the Christian creation and unite in prayer time to discuss how to families through such event. in the commitment to care six years ago. nun - feel that it is our duty for our common home". Sister Prema Chowallur and responsibility today to The Sisters of the Cross of explains: “Covid-19 in the make a difference with a Chavanod together with midst of pain for those we lifestyle that can heal the Prithvi Parivar, the ecological have lost has taught us many earth. They regret the commission of the Indian things. Varieties of viruses damage done to creation by Bishops' Conference (CBCI), and bacteria are emerging ignorance or an unsustain- are part of the Laudato Sì and taking on new forms able lifestyle.We are called to Movement, which globally with climate change. Our decide: to every Christian promotes the values of the ancestors have given us a the task of listening to the cry social encyclical published healthy environment, what of the earth and of the poor by Pope Francis in parishes are we giving our children? ”. and taking a step forward for and religious communities. “The sisters - continues the the good of all ”. Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 07 Youth Gurgaon apostolic Eco Summer Camp unites young administrator appointed adults in dialogue for ecological August 28. The August 28 conversion communication also said the In light of increasing calls for new administrator took the communal efforts to be oath of fidelity and secrecy directed toward the protection immediately after Arch- of our common home amid bishop Thomas Koorilos of widening ecological Tiruvalla announced his degradation, hurricanes, name at a function in St flooding and other natural : Pope Francis has Mary’s Cathedral in Neb disasters, the “Eco Summer appointed Father Varghese Sarai, south Delhi. Camp for Young Adults” is Vinayanand Vekkal as the Archbishop Koorilos had doing something to urge apostolic administrator of the represented the cardinal at young people to take a stand for themselves and for Gurgaon Syro-Malankara the funeral of Bishop generations to come. diocese. Barnabas. Organized by the Lassalle- The appointment came The cardinal thanked the Institut in collaboration with August 28, two days after Pope and the nuncio in New Swiss Catholic Lenten Fund, Bishop Jacob Barnabas Delhi for the prompt Fastenopfer and the Center for with an openness to change, stressing that there is no Chacko Aerath of Gurgaon appointment of the Development and young adults can influence a Christian or non-believer died of post Covid administrator. Environment (CDE), the better way of development and solution to these challenges. complications in a private Father Vekkal is a member of initiative brought together lifestyle for future generations. To combat this great challenge hospital in New Delhi. the Order of the Imitation of over 40 young adults between In this regard, the Summer to humankind, Ciriello notes, The gathering at St Mary’s Christ, a clerical religious the ages of 18 – 35 for the Camp provides the we have to “find a common Cathedral, Neb Sarai, New con-gregation of Pontifical program which was held from opportunity for young adults g r o u n d ” in spite of our DelhiAn official Right under the Oriental 22 to 28 August at the Lassalle- from all over the world to differences in religion, political communication from Church. He entered the Haus in Switzerland. connect on a “deeper level”– to leanings and philosophy. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, congregation on May 7, 1994, Experts and scholars animated feel the interconnection with Putting human beings at the head of the Syro-Malankara and was ordained a priest on sessions aimed at broadening the rest of the world – but also center Church, said the November 24, 2003. the horizons of the to foster feeling that moves us As the UN Climate Change appointment took effect from Mattersindia participants and towards “a more fraternal Conference (COP26) scheduled strengthening an international world.” for 1-12 November in Glasgow, network of young people who “Our minds divide us because Scotland draws closer, the Jesuit Claretians reelect Indian contribute to a true change in everyone has their own acknowledges the opportunity environmental issues. This is opinion,” the Jesuit says, “but it will present for world leaders as superior general done through a holistic the feelings towards a more to take positive action in the Claret Bhavan approach that fosters fraternal world are universal face of the urgent ecological Kuravilangad. interpersonal growth through for every one of us and it does crisis. From 1987 to 1988 he was a mindful approach, as well as not matter from what cultural, Particularly, Ciriello points out appointed Vocation through practical religious or political that our basic approach toward Promoter and formator in contributions. background you have come the climate emergency has to minor seminary. In an interview with Vatican from.” change. He stresses that we News, Jesuit Valerio Ciriello Joint responsibility for the need to “put human beings at From 1988 to 1989 he was reflected on this first edition of planet t h e c e n t e r ” i n e c o n o m i c assigned as assistant to the the summer program and the Reflecting on the Eco Camp in decision-making and in efforts Rome: The Claretian parish priest of St. Mary’s, importance of involving young the light of Pope Francis’ 2015 to protect the planet, as missionaries on August 30 Champakulam, . people in ecological efforts. Laudato si’ Encyclical on care opposed to running an re-elected Indian Father From 1989 to 1994 he Ciriello is the chaplain at the for our common home, Ciriello economy driven solely by Gross Mathew Vattamattam as its studied for a Licentiate in University of Lucerne, notes that even though the Domestic Products (GDP) that superior general during the Systematic Theology and a Switzerland, and works for an document is written for the require us to destroy even more congregation’s general Licentiate in Psychology at ecological transition for future Catholic Church, it is really resources. chapter in Rome. the Gregorian University in generations. The Eco Summer meant for everyone, urging us “ The destruction of the Camp for Young Adults is one to work together to protect our environment, climate change Father Vattamattam was Rome. of the fruits of his work. planet. and others all have one big born on May 30, 1959, in In 1994 to 1996, he was Young adults for an ecological “We have to realize that we are common root – our living style” Kalathoor, Kerala, southern appointed director of the transition all in the same boat, and we he says, insisting that “our India. Claret Nivas Retreat House Although everyone is share the same short moments consumption attitude has to He did his basic studies at in Bangalore and assistant encouraged to participate in of life. We have to take the change radically.” St. Mary School, Kalathoor, to the Master of Novices. efforts for a healthier planet, responsibility together to face The next Eco Summer Camp for and his secondary studies at From 1996 to 2003 he Ciriello highlights that the the challenges of future Young Adults will take place St. John’s High School, served as Novice Master of program targets young adults, generations and we have to feel from 25 August – 1 September Kanjirathanam. the Bangalore Province. because they have the interconnected,” he says, 2022. potential to be dynamic and to He entered the At the XXIII General make an impact in the face of congregation at the Claret Chapter, held in Rome in the challenges on the path Bhavan in Kuravilangad on 2003, he was elected towards an ecological July 3, 1974, and made his General Consultor and transition. More so, the young first profession on May 31, Prefect of Formation and people are going to be the ones 1978. He took his final vows re-elected to the same “ most affected by the on May 31, 1984. He was office in 2009. consequences of climate ordained a priest on May 10, In the XXV General Chapter change and the loss of 1986. he was elected 13th biodiversity.” Through programs like the Eco From 1986-1987 he served Superior General, a Camp, he continues, there is a as assistant vocation position he has now been hope that they are “less promoter and assistant ratified for six more years. influenced by the living style of formator of aspirants at the Mattersindia past generations” and maybe, 08 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Miscellaneous Attacks on Christians go Human Traf"cking A Multi-Billion Dollar Criminal Industry – Part VII unpunished in Indian Pledge to Fight Human Traf"cking in North East state FRANCIS SUNIL ROSARIO

Addressing an online meeting on July 30, to mark the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, the United Christian Forum of North East India, an ecumenical organization convened the webinar, Rev. Gaikward, moderating the webinar said, “Listening to victims’ voices will lead the way to helping the region out of this sad reality.” Among those present were representatives of Presbyterians, Baptists, Evangelicals, Church of N orth India and Catholics. Gaikward pointed out that A Christian leader in the Meanwhile, police said the northeastern India’s proximity trafficking is a sad reality of the of the northeastern Indian central Indian state of pastor was accused of being with international borders region. Many gullible and naïve states makes them highly Chhattisgarh has accused the involved in religious makes it easy for the human youth are pushed into to it due vulnerable to illegal trans- state government of inaction conversion activities by his traffickers. to lack of awareness. border movement of militants, after six incidents of Christian attackers who also raised “Victims of human trafficking Education, advocacy and arms, drugs and now trafficked attacks were reported within a slogans against him. are lured with the promise of awareness through social persons. The most affected week. Pannalal told media that employment and better life by media platforms and international borders are those The latest attack was reported members of all Christian agents and then they are taken coordinated efforts by the that the region shares with from a remote village in denominations in the state to Myanmar through Manipur various churches can help fight and Myanmar. Kabirdham district on Aug. 29. had met recently in Bilaspur and Mizoram. Once they reach this crime effectively in the Lately Bhutan has been used as More than 100 Hindu activists town where they discussed Myanmar, their Indian identity region.” a safe haven by traffickers to beat up a pastor after barging ways to defend their is confiscated and they are Salvin Paul, an assistant hoodwink law enforcement into his house during a prayer community leaders and places given fake Myanmar passport. professor at Sikkim Central authorities, the report says. service, said Mohit Garg, of worship against similar With this they are trafficked University, presented the Human trafficking affects an superintendent of police for attacks. across the Southeast Asian situation of human trafficking estimated 20 million to 65 the district. “ We will approach the countries such as Indonesia, in his state. Siluguri in West million people in India. Women The mob also manhandled Supreme Court for justice with Thailand, Singapore and Bengal is the trafficking point of and girls are trafficked for Pastor Kawalsingh Paraste’s all the required evidence,” he Malaysia.” Sikkim because of its better commercial sexual exploitation family members and said. Many trafficked victims never connectivity. Even though the and forced marriage, especially vandalized the house, Chhattisgarh has in place an see their homes again. More police department of the state in areas with skewed sex ratio damaging scriptures, articles anti-conversion law enacted than 80 percent of them are is effective in dealing with favoring men. of worship and household during the rule of the pro- pushed to flesh trade. Lack of crimes in general, cases of Children are forced to work in items, before fleeing. The Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party education and awareness on human trafficking go factories and in homes as incident occurred in Polmi (BJP). The Chhattisgarh the issue and poverty make the unnoticed most often, said the servants. They are made to beg village around 11am when the Freedom of Religion northeastern Indian youth soft professor. in cities or work in farms. Some Sunday prayer service was (Amendment) Act, 2006, targets, Reverend Gaikward RiniRalte, the president of insurgent or terrorist groups use underway,Garg said. requires anybody wanting to added. North East Solidarity Moment them as child soldiers. “It is very unfortunate that we change religion to seek Responding to the grim based in Bangalore, Malathi, a India is also a destination for have witnessed repeated permission from district situation of human trafficking social activist working at an anti women and girls from attacks on our Christian authorities at least 30 days in in the region, Father Tom trafficking NGO based in neighboring countries, brothers and sisters last week. advance. Mangattuthazhe, the , Delarson Anal, a smuggled for sexual But it is nothing new. We have Anybody found guilty of northeast regional secretary missionary from Indian exploitation. Indian women are documented more than 200 violating the law is liable to be for ecumenism, said, “Better Evangelisation Mission also trafficked to the Middle such incidents in the state jailed and pay a financial networking and collaboration working in Sikkim and WC East. Indian migrants who work during the past two years,” penalty. among the region’s various Khongwir from the in Middle East and Europe as Chhattisgarh Christian Forum Pro-Hindu groups often NGOs and churches will help Presbyterian Church of India domestic servants or low-skilled president Arun Pannalal told accuse Christians of curb this evil happening under spoke at the webinar. laborers could also end in UCA News. converting others to their our nose. As leaders of the A report of the United Nations human trafficking industry and He said what was more religion through unfair means, different churches in the Office on Drugs and Crime into forced labor. unfortunate was that every though, according to the 2011 region, let us pledge to fight (UNODC) finds the human According to the National Crime time the government would try national census report, only this crime against humanity.” trafficking problem in India’s Records Bureau, a total of 5,264 to play down the incidents and 1.92 percent of the state’s 23 Officially, Assam ranks 13 in northeastern region alarming cases of human trafficking were push for a compromise million people follow the the incidents of human and steadily growing. reported in India in 2018, where between the attackers and religion. trafficking while Meghalaya is “ The problem is further 64 percent were women and 48 their victims. “Few of them will Chhattisgarh remains India’s at 15, Mizoram 17, Arunachal compounded by the percent below 18 years old. be called to the police station most densely Hindu state with Pradesh 21, Manipur 22, and inadequate and ineffective The most affected areas are but no first information report 93.25 percent of its population Sikkim at 20. “However, these legal protections The North Bihar, , , [documenting the initial following . Islam, rankings may not be even Eastern Region is surrounded , Rajasthan, Andhra details of the incident] will be Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism correct as an unofficial record by as many as four Pradesh, Assam, Orissa and registered,” he said. are the other minority states that more 90 percent of international borders and is . Police inaction and the religions. UCAN human trafficking cases in the connected to the mainland Courtesy: Matters India government’s failures had region go unreported,” Father India by a narrow chicken neck made the Christian faithful in Mangattuthazhe explained. corridor along the Assam- the state insecure and Commenting on the issue, Bengal border,” the report disturbed social harmony, the Archbishop John Moolachira explains. Christian lay leader alleged. of Guwahati said, “Human The geographical positioning Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 09

Relevant Concerns in our Pastoral India, new violence Ministry in Series - 26 against Dalit girls Prophetic Voices from the Periphery – Poets of Bengal – 17 Buddhadeb Guha (29 June 1936 - 29 August 2021) FRANCIS SUNIL ROSARIO

Buddhadeb Guha85-year-old, an eminent Bengali writer of fiction died on August 29, 2021. He was blessed as to be one with the Divine on the night of Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) 2021.Guha was pre- deceased by wife, eminent Rabindra Sangeet exponent Ritu Guha in 2011 and left behind two daughters, Malini and Sohini. He suffered from post-covid complications. important works besides film 'Dictionary' was made Born on June 29, 1936 in `Madhukari' include ` Koeler based on two of his works Calcutta. He spent his early Kachhe' (Near the Koel bird) `Baba Howa’ (Being a Father) New Delhi (AsiaNews) - Three usually these crimes have a years in various districts of and `Sobinoy Nibedon ’ and `Swami Howa’ (Being a other cases of violence against collective nature ”. Eastern Bengal (now Bangla- (Humble Offering).His novels Husband). Dalit girls have occurred in AsiaNews has accepted the desh). Those days in Rangpur, and short stories have been recent days in India. In western appeal of Msgr. Felix Machado, Jaipurhat and Barisal are highly acclaimed by critics, RichTributes Delhi, a 13-year-old was raped archbishop of the diocese of depicted in his Rivu series. winning him fans across the Actor Gourab Roy Chowdhury and killed, most likely by a , and general secretary of Some of the Rivu books are sub-continent. The Actor Gourab Roy relative of her landlord. The the Catholic Bishops' dedicated to friends from his Other books by Guha are Chowdhury took a stroll down first findings on the body Conference of India: “What youth. His works of fiction 'Porijayee', 'Bonobasor', memory lane as he spoke revealed deep wounds on the happens to Dalit girls is reflected his closeness to 'Palashtalir Parshi',‘Ribhu’ about Buddhadeb Guha’s face and private parts of the inhumane and unacceptable. It nature and forests of eastern s e r i e s , ‘ B a b l i ’ , ‘ B a j e magical creations. “Babli, Riju young woman: her killing dates is very important that these India. He was the creator of ChandanpurerKorcha ’ , da are my all-time favourites. I back to 31 August. cases are reported by the media Rijuda, an imaginary character ‘Bonobasar’, ‘Jujudhan’. can’t imagine my childhood In previous weeks, Indian and that these atrocities, who explores jungles with his His education :Barishal Zilla without Riju da and his police had recorded however shameful, are sidekick Rudra. School, St. Xavier’s College, adventures. ” He v i v i d l y complaints of two Dalit girls recognized as a serious Guha was a chartered Kolkata, Scottish Church painted the pictures in each of being raped by groups of five violation of human rights ”. accountant by profession. He College, and under University his stories so that we can men in two different states.The Mgr. Machado notes that "for took hunting at the age of 10. of Calcutta. In school, Guha visualize it. “Many others, who first case occurred in Belagavi several years there has been He wrote, “ I am not a hunter, was the captain of the cricket grew up like me reading his () on July 12, but the widespread talk of this and never was one. I am a team of Tirthapati Institution, books, got the first taste of girl's family, threatened by one phenomenon, but no forest walker (bonochari)….. under whom football icon adventure holding the hands of the alleged rapists, decided improvement has been The true forest walker is he in Chuni Goswami would play his of his magical words. His to report the incident only on achieved." Such violence is so whom there is a nature lover, first cricket match. creation gave us wings to fly August 26. On 24 August, in the widespread that not even the anthropologist, ornithologist, Guha did his graduation from and enjoy as much as possible district of Rampur (Uttar elderly are spared: "Last month botanist, zoologist, poet and a St. Xavier’s College. He was a without stepping outside. He Pradesh), five men allegedly in Maharashtra - he adds. connoisseur of literature. He Xaverian. In the words of Fr. was a very good singer in real kidnapped and raped a 14- Archbishop of Vasai - Seven should have empathy towards Dominic Savio, Principal, St. life. His close bond with year-old Dalit. Dalit families were beaten and people of his own country and Xavier’s College, “He was the mother nature is beautifully tied in public to stakes by other countries too “. He wrote secretary of the Bengali reflected in most of his The phenomenon of gender- Hindus of dominant caste on in his introduction to Literary Society of the college creations. We needed his based violence against Dalit suspicion of performing ‘ Bonjytsnar Sobuj in 1954 along with Nara stories more, now that we can't women (outcast) is very witchcraft and black magic. Andhokarey’. Reading the first Narayan Guptoo. His poems in step out due to the pandemic.” widespread in the 15 states of Among them were also three volume of Jungle Mohal, in his early days were published Pracheta Gupta the Indian Federation, as the elderly ". Mgr. Machado finds 1997, the singer Malabika in the college magazine and “Buddhadeb Guha was a campaign of the National the silence of the Dalit parties Kanan, had laughed so hard Bengali Literary Society’s jour- stalwart and pioneer of Council of Women Leaders and leaders disconcerting in the that it cured her of nervous nals. He graced the Society’s modern romantic literature,” (NCWL) denounces: "Dalit face of the growing atrocities breakdown. His fictional 75th year celebration and was writer Pracheta Gupta told My women and girls are often against the outcast:" It is a character Wrijuda, a popular involved wholeheartedly. Kolkata. “His contribution subject to aggravated sexual collective shame for our figure in children’s literature He was also recipient of the towards Bengali literature is violence, such as gang rape or country and we are all along with his sidekick Rudra, prestigious “Dashabhuja unparalleled. His characters rape with homicide, and responsible ". w a s a h u n t e r – t u r n e d Bangali” Award of the Bengali became so popular that people conservationist. Literary Society of the College. began to name their children He drew on his memories in He always maintained a very after them. His writings were Rangpur and Barisal in his cordial and jovial relation with so intriguing that readers were Wrivu series. His intimacy with his Alma Mater.”He was drowned in them. An element the woods of eastern India is conferred Ananda Purashkar of romance was always reflected in his writings, with in 1976, Shiroman Purashkar intricately woven in all his Jungle Mohal being his first and Sharat Puraskar. writings. He will remain story collection, published in Guha was also a noted singer immortal in his writings.” 1960s. and a proficient illustrator, Others also paid tribute to this Love, relationships and the sometimes doing the artwork great stalwart of Bengali human mind could form as for his own books. Buddhadeb Literature. Joy Goswami, dense a foreground as the Guha will be remembered for BaniBasu and Parimal jungle in the backdrop in his Koeler Kachhe, Kojagar, Bhattacharya. Actors paid writings, as evident in EktuUsnotarJonyo, tribute to Guha, Prosenjit ‘Madhukari’(Honey Gatherer), Moadhukori, Jangalmahal, Chatterjee, Parambrata serialized in the Magazine Choroibeti and other books” Chatterjee, Abir Chatterjee Desh from 1984-85. His An award-winning Bengali and ArindamSil. 10 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Documents Pope Francis calls for MARY, MOTHER OF HOPE prayer, fasting for Part 2 Afghanistan

FR.GEORGEKAITHOLIL 2. Mother whose life persuadesustohopeinGod continues to care for the the Church is to blast a nuclear Mary “stands out among the spiritual and material welfare bomb on Christian civilization. poor and the humble of the of all whom Jesus on the Cross Christian spirituality is a total Lord, who confidently await gave her as her children, and so “Yes” to God just like that of and receive salvation from they hope fervently for her Mary. Our encounter with her H i m ” (L.G. 55). Mary ’ s intervention in their difficulties facilitates our encounter with Magnificat is the song of the and needs. Christ, and through him, with At the Angelus, Pope Francis k i l l e d “ to the mercy of poor coming from every part Mary is our hope, for her faith God. Mother Mary ranks as the calls Christians to show Almighty God.” At the same of the Biblical story of goes beyond any personal gain. first Christian; she is the one solidarity with the people of time, he thanked those who salvation. It is the song of the She is the symbol of the who set this new faith in motion. Afghanistan, especially are working to help the “sorely true and spiritual Israel, revolutionary transformation She has a unique place in the women and children, the tried population ” o f awaiting the messianic of the poor of Yahweh in the divine plan of salvation and in victims of violent attacks in Afghanistan, especially blessings; it bears testimony to earthly and spiritual sense. The the order of grace. Therefore she recent days. "Let us continue to women and children. “I ask the transforming power of God sinner, the poor and the is the perfect model of our faith, assist those in need", he says, everyone to continue to assist in history. Against the afflicted see in Mary, active and hope and charity. Numberless "and pray that dialogue and those in need,” the Pope said, background of the proud, the heroic, the exemplar of those people pray to her with fervent solidarity may lead to peaceful “and to pray that dialogue and powerful and the self- who hope for the new life to hope. and fraternal coexistence." solidarity may lead to the sufficient, God is proclaimed come. This hope of Mary is The theological virtue of hope is ByVatican News staff reporter establishment of peaceful and as the One who raises the lowly fulfilled; at the Spirit’s a well-grounded expectation of “I am following the situation in fraternal coexistence, and and fills the starving with good intervention the Author of life being saved, after we have done Afghanistan with great offer hope for the future of the things, thereby showing that takes human form in the womb all within our power. Hope concern,” Pope Francis said on country.” the security of the great ones of of the young Virgin Mary, implies expectation, desire and Sunday, adding, “I share in the Pope Francis insisted that “in this earth is no security at all. because “nothing is impossible trust. In Baptism we are made suffering of those who mourn historical moments like this God is Love that helps and to God” (Lk 1:37). children of God and coheirs for the people who lost their we cannot remained indiffe- enriches the humble, the lowly 3. Mother whom the faithful with Christ (cf. Rom 8:14-17); we lives in the suicide attacks last rent,” and for Christians it is a and the little ones of this earth. approachwithhope hope to inherit the kingdom of Thursday, and of those who are duty to respond. For this Mary’s Magnificat is the Mary is an integral part of the heaven and to participate in the seeking help and protection.” reason, he said, “I appeal to discovery that God alone is Christian people. Taking away glory of God (Rom 5:12). In order Almost two hundred people everyone to intensify prayer true riches; it is her jubilant Mary from Christian life would that our hope in Christ may be were killed in the suicide and practise fasting: prayer expression of hope in God. mean the destruction of a great fulfilled, we must obey Mary’s bombing at Kabul’s airport last and fasting, prayer and pena- According to Max Thurian, part of Christian culture. instruction to do whatever he week, and thousands of people nce. Now is the time to do it.” only those who are willing to Thousands of cathedrals, tells us (cf. Jn 2:5). are still waiting desperately to Adding emphasis to his become poor can be sure of sanctuaries and churches 4. Mother who leads the flee to the country as the appeal, he continued, “I’m being filled by Him. Passing dedicated to Mary – like the Churchinhope Taliban takes control of the serious: Intensify prayer and through Mary, the poor and Basilica of Mary Major in On Calvary, Jesus defined the war-torn nation. practice fasting, asking the blessed handmaid of the Lord, Rome, the Notre Dame role of Mary as the Mother of all The Holy Father commended Lord for mercy and this love is extended through Cathedral in Paris, the great his disciples (cf. Jn 19:26-27). the souls of those who were forgiveness.” the Church of the poor in order Marian shrine in Velankanni, She cannot be separated from to reach its fulfilment in the our dear Mount Mary Basilica us, our world, our history and Kingdom of God which in Mumbai – would be wiped our religion. Mary is the sign of belongs to the poor.4 out; the immortal pages of sure hope and consolation for When Mary visited her cousin Dante’s Divine Comedy would the pilgrim people of God.While Elizabeth, the elder lady be destroyed; some of the she has reached the final glory, greeted her saying, “Blessed is excellent pieces of poetry of the Church is still on her she who believed that the Ralph Wright and Richard pilgrimage, following Mary’s promises made to her by the Crashaw would sound empty. example Lord would be fulfilled” (Lk The unearthly paintings of (cf. L.G. 65). The hope of future 1:45). Here Elizabeth is Blessed Angelico of Florence good, the glorious kingdom of declaring Mary as a woman of would disappear; the Christ, urges her to “search for faith and hope. When just one incomparable Pieta of Michael the future permanent city” (L.G. person, Elizabeth, called her Angelo and the exquisite 9). Mary already possesses the blessed, without pride or false paintings of Giotto, Van der glory which will belong to the humility Mary replied, “All Weyden and many others Church in her final fulfilment. generations shall call me would have no meaning. The She is the image, the concrete blessed” (Lk 1:48). celestial notes of the Ave Maris representation of the glorified Mary is concerned with others, Stella of Peter Wagner and Church as well as its beginning. active and dynamic, as one can Mozart, and the Ave Maria of She mirrors the hope of the easily see in her visit to Shubert and Stravinsky which Church to be the “heavenly Elizabeth to help her (cf. Lk 1: inspired millions of people Jerusalem” (Gal 4:26; Heb 12:22; 39- 56), and in her intervention would have to be silenced.Tens cf. Rev 3:12; 2:20) where the at the wedding feast of Cana of thousands of Christians aspirations of human beings for (Jn 2:3-5). Millions of the would have to change their security, serenity and joy would faithful believe that Mary names.Totake away Mary from be fulfilled. Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 11 Leisure International Journal of Asian STORY BANK Story 118: Slave labour still shames India Christianity FR. FELIX RAJ SJ FRANCIS SUNIL ROSARIO embedded itself in complex ways giving rise to historically particular Christian commun- ities with their own locally and regionally prolific variants of myth, tradition and culture as well as specific engagements with altering economic and political realities. This unique journal creates a space previously unavailable to examine these dense and sophisticated linkages of religion and culture both in their rich distinctiveness and in a cross-cultural and cross- disciplinary perspective allowing for broader generalizations and Dr.Wilfred Felix - FOUNDER point where their investigations theorizations to emerge. Asian Centre for Cross-Cultural intersect with the study of The Journal is well associated Studies (ACCS) Christianity in Asia. It seeks to with the Asian Centre for Cross- A renowned Asian Theologian, serve as a point of reference for cultural Studies (ACCS), Dr. Wilfred Felix dreamt of the such scholars from different Chennai to study and research publication of an International disciplines searching for a on Christianity as an integral Maniram Sankar Atala was Since independence in 1947, journal of Asian Christianity critical, unprejudiced, part of Asian history and among thousands of people successive governments have (IJAC). “There is a greater need to scientific, and enlightened study tradition: to promote a forum for stranded on roads when India enacted 29 labor-friendly laws Asian Christian Intelligentsia to do more research on Christi- of Christia-nity in Asia that announced a nationwide to ensure minimum wages and dialogue with the larger society anity in Asia”, he would say. transcends confessional lockdown to contain the spread social security among other This dream of an ‘inclusive attachments and apologetics, and critically reflect on its social, of Covid-19 in April 2020. employment benefits. However, theological journal’ began with while also being free of political, economic and cultural his writing of‘Oxford Handbook ideological biases. Hence, the situation; to provide an Atala’s employer in the laws failed to change the of Christianity in Asia’. His journal welcomes the interdisciplinary basis for state left him at a petrol station age-old practice of bonded efforts brought together a group contributions of researchers Christian social engagement; to and never returned. Without labor or debt labor, which of scholars across various from the abovementioned facilitate the meeting and knowing the local Tamil continued across India in regions who reflected on disciplines. interaction among Asian language and with no money in various forms. In 1976, the different aspects of Christianity IJAC is a biannual, double-blind Christian intellectuals and hand, the tribal man from Bonded Labour System from an interdisciplinary reviewed international journal, channel their human resources Maharashtra state slept in the (Abolition) Act was brought into perspective. The idea was to published by Brill, Leiden, the towards transformation of open without food for several force. But the situation of the discuss and dialogue on Asian Netherlands. Brill publishes only society; and to promote inter- days. poor laborers did not change Christianity in such a way that it unpublished original materials. religious understanding and A Jesuit priest who heard about much. would be possible for people of Its first volume came out in 2018. religious freedom in dialogue Atala rescued and India’s total population is various religious traditions, or The IJAC is a peer-reviewed with peoples of other faiths. accommodated him in a safe estimated at 1,366 million or none at all, to take part in a journal dedicated to the home until the lockdown was 136.6 crore people in 2019. Its meaningful conversation and scholarly examination of DR. FELIX WILFRED is Emeritus lifted. Atala was among 14 labour force consists of 45.9 Professor of the State University learn mutually as well as Christianity in Asia and of Asian stranded laborers rescued crore workers. Out of these, 43.3 of Madras. contribute to a closer Christian diaspora in the West during the lockdown. crore (94%) are in the understanding of the subject. and elsewhere. While other He has been a member of the Atala’s story is an example. His unorganized sector and the In particular, IJAC wants to major Asian religions such as Vatican International create closer links and dialogues Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam Theological Commission and employer hired him in remaining 2.6 crore (6%) are in among scholars of Christianity have received great deal of visiting professor in several September 2019 promising a the organized sector, according within Asia. Most scholars of international scholarly atten- International Universities, monthly wage of 9,000 rupees to a survey conducted by NSSO. Asian Christianity have stronger tion, Christianity is relatively including the University of (US$120) to work with a team Indians do not value manual ties to their counterparts in neglected as a subject of study. Frankfurt, University of drilling bore wells in Tamil work. There is a strange Europe and North America This journal intends to rectify Nijmegen, Boston College, Nadu. But until March 2020, prejudice against it in society. than with other scholars across this neglect by providing a Ateneo de Manila University, after six months of work, he was We seem to forget that the Asia’s different cultural regions. multidisciplinary forum for the and Fudan University, China. paid only some $70. construction or domestic The International Journal of examination of Asian He was on deputation by the Bonded labor still exists across workers who serve us are as Asian Christianity (ijac), is Christianity from sociological, Government of India as ICCR the country in different forms; much a part of modern India as intended as a platform for anthropological, comparative Professor of Indian Studies, migrants are the modern-day doctors and engineers. scholars across the globe to religion, religious studies, Trinity College-Dublin, Ireland. slaves in India. Even after six decades of sustain this kind of approach to theological, historical and He was a Executive Secretary of Nationwide lockdowns to independence, legitimate Christianity in the spirit of similar perspectives and link the Theological Commission contain the spread of COVID- demands of unorganized advising the Federation of Asian academic dialogue. In such studies to emerging trends 19 pushed the labour migrants workers continue to be ignored Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) particular, the journal would in the social sciences such as extreme despair, jobless, because they are divided along like to give scholars of Asia migration studies, identities, 1987-1997. homelessness, hunger and caste and gender lines, whether doing their research in local minorities, secularization, Dr. Wilfred is currently President languages—Chinese, Japanese, fundamentalism, development, of the International Theological mass migration. Thousands of working as domestic helps, Korean, Indonesian, and so and the political roles of religion. Review Concilium published in migrant labourers walked back agricultural laborers, migrant on—an opportunity to reach out The journal is open to scholars of seven European language to their villages with their workers or construction to an international audience and all religious persuasions or none editions (English, French, children on national highways workers. present the fruits of their undertaking serious work on the German, Spanish, Italian, across India. Caste is at the root of inequality labour through an English- historical, anthropological, Portuguese, and Croatian). He If one imagines all of India’s in Indian society. Although the medium journal. The journal is educational, theological, recently edited a landmark internal migrants as one nation old order has more or less addressed to scholars in the cultural social and political volume The Oxford Handbook then not only would that nation collapsed, it is not as if newer fields of history, anthropology, aspects of Asian Christianity and on Christianity in Asiapublished be the third-largest country on emerging systems are equitable. politics, theology, mission its role in shaping both the past by Oxford University Press, New the planet — that is, after China Urbanization has ushered in studies, cultural studies, and present Asian societies. York and UK. Presently, he is and India — but also, it would new ways of discrimination. sociology of religion, area In the diverse and plural Founder-Director of the Asian be roughly double the size of Caste system is rampant in all studies, and collateral contexts of Asian societies and Centre for Cross-Cultural the fourth-largest nation on the religious communities and it disciplines especially at the cultures, Christianity has Studies (ACCS). planet — the United States. affects all walks of life. 12 Kolkata| 03 September - 09 September 2021 Classi"eds

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it, dear heart of Jesus, and place it within your heart where your father sees it.Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your own favour, not mine, Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of the prayers. —

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