From the Editor’s Desk
Battle to Save Forests and Wildlife
O
ur planet Earth is home to myriads species of flora and fauna. Their constant interplay and interlinkages have been vital for human sustenance and survival. To raise awareness of the importance of Forests and Wildlife the United Nations General Assembly earmarked two days in the month of March: World Wildlife Day (3 March) and International Day of Forests (21 March). Forests are the lungs of our planet and are essential to life. They are a source of air, water, food, shelter and medicine. They are the ecological powerhouses on which the livelihood of more than 1 billion people depend. They are home to 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity. The rainfall generated by these forests is essential for farmers and for global food security. Forests help to stabilize the climate and are our most vital natural climate solution in our combat to stave off climate change. They are the best carboncapture technology absorbing the carbon dioxide emissions that have already been released into the atmosphere. Saving Forests could reduce 7 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide each year. Forests and Wildlife around the world are under threat due to unsustainable development. In the United States, the Roadless Rule – a popular conservation policy issued in 2001 by the Bill Clinton administration, was repealed by the Donald Trump Administration in October 2020. This conservation measure was aimed to end all logging, roadbuilding, leasing of minerals in the Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest. The rollback of the conservation policy opened up the previously protected pristine forest for logging and exploitation by timber industry lobbyists and politicians. Back home, in India, the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) and Forest Advisory Committee (FAC), India’s highest advisory bodies on wildlife, cleared or discussed over 30 projects in biodiverse forests in the middle of the lockdown. The virtual clearance, without site inspections, of these projects affects 15 tiger reserves, sanctuaries, eco-sensitive zones, wildlife corridors, and other forest areas. In my home state of Goa, the forests of the Western Ghats are also in danger. The three proposed projects including a railway line, a transmission line and widening of the existing
double lane highway will affect biodiverse evergreen forests in the middle of the Western Ghats and the previously untouched areas of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. There are umpteen regulatory bodies at the International and National level which are constituted to protect the forests. However, the environmental laws are flouted and misinterpreted for the benefit of the rich and the powerful who are hand-in-glove with the political leadership. When the elected representatives muzzle the voices of concerned citizens and fail to assume their responsibility to protect the forest from deforestation and degradation then there is need to demonstrate the viability of people power. The Chipko movement, a nonviolent forest conservation movement in 1973, became a rallying point for many future environmental movements all over the world. The Chipkotype movement was also displayed in Goa’s Shel Melaulim village. Just like the womenfolk who were the mainstay of the Chipko Movement, so too the brave women of Shel Melaulim created ecological awareness to save the forests located at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Let us battle unitedly to protect the forests in Goa, India and around the globe. This edition of ‘Fr. Agnel’s Call’ includes an array of articles focusing on Forests and Wildlife. The Cover Feature, written by Mithila Prabhudesai, expounds the need to battle deforestation for sustainable development. Monteiro and Prabhudesai write about the interconnection between people, animals, plants while Vikram D’Silva, describes Goa as a most vibrant and beautiful place with eccentric forests that are home to some of the rarest and most interesting birds, animals, plants and insects. Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, auxiliary Bishop of Mumbai, shares his reflections of going through the Forest in a different ecological way. He says that there is always a need for an on-going personal conversion which includes an “ecological conversion” “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” Elvis Fernandes, SFX Editor Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 3
contents
March, 2021 | Vol. 56 6
Cover Feature
16
Battling deforestation for sustainable development
Youth Social media and its impact on youth BY Basil D’Cunha
BY Mithila Prabhudesai
8
Building Empathy BY Christina Fernandes Marina Fernandes
10
OH! Goa We Must Protect Goa’s Wildlife and Forests BY Vikram D’Silva
12
Inside India Save Aarey – Save Mumbai BY Fr. Joseph Gonsalves
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GLOBAL GAZE Healthy Ecosystems equals to Healthy People BY Conchita Monteiro Mithila Prabhudesai
Editor Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, sfx Editorial Team Dr. Fr. Ivon Almeida, sfx; Fr. Mark Furtado, sfx; Dr. Nelly De Sa; Dr. Rafael Fernandes, Joseph M. Fernandes Printer and Publisher Fr. Noel Menezes, sfx Cover concept E. Sanguemkar Illustrations Dr. Smitha Bhandare Kamat Art & Design Clifford Fernandes Proof Reader Grisel Zuzarte, Blossom Araujo Editorial Office The Editor Fr. Agnel’s Call Pilar - Goa - 403 203. Email: editorfragnelscall@gmail.com Ph.: (0832) 2219091
4 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
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Mission Musings Mission Aprilia
20
BY Fr. Pio Rego, SFX
Sacred Space This earth is a garden, The Lord its gardener, Cherishing all, none neglected. Adi Granth, Majh Ashtpadi 1.M.III
22
Lay-missionaries in Frontier-missions Sans Cleric-missionaries (III)
Come back, O tigers, to the woods again, and let it not be levelled with the plain. For without you, the axe will lay it low, you, without it, forever homeless go. Khudaka Patha
BY Dr. Fr. Francis Carvalho, sfx
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Spirituality The Church Needs to Get Involved!
One who kills other living beings, kills oneself. - Acaranga Sutra (1.3.3)
BY Fr Cedric Prakash SJ
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Going Through the Forest in a Different Ecological Way BY Bishop Allwyn D’Silva
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Coming Home to God: Lenten Season in the Philippines
Have you considered the water you drink? Did you send it down from the clouds, or did WE send it? Did WE will, WE would make it better; So why are you not thankful? - Qur’an 56, 67-69
BY Joel C. Navarez
30
Interconnectedness between Humanity and Earth by Fr. Santosh Mendonca, SFX
31
Atharva Veda XII, 1
St. Patrick- An ideal missionary BY Scholastic Alok Anup Minj, SFX
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Earth, my mother! Set me securely with bliss. In full accord with Heaven. Wise one, Uphold me in grace and splendour.
padre agnel Ven. Fr. Agnelo teaches us to live a life of hope by Br. Eusebio Miranda, Sfx
And why worry about clothing? Think of the flowers growing in the fields; they never have to work or spin; yet I assure you that not even Solomon in all his royal robes was clothed like one of these. Matthew 6:28
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 5
Youth
Courtesy: www.servicehospitality.com
Social media and its impact on youth
Social media fuels prostitution and sexual exploitation especially among teens who come from poorer backgrounds, as money is a big motivator, to agree, to do wrong things. BY Basil D’Cunha
S
exting, Cyberbullying, Porn on Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Snap Chat etc.) lead to - among other things - Alcohol Binging, Drugs, Pre-marital sex, Prostitution, Sex Trafficking of Minors, Rape, Paedophilia etc. Lets’ begin with a true story. Amanda Todd, a Canadian teenager, committed suicide. Before she died, she made a YouTube video. https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=vOHXGNxE7E&bpctr=1605242257 describing how it had all happened. When in School in the 7th grade - Age 13, she logged into a webcam and she met a man, around 30, who bullied her into showing her breasts. She did and that was the start of her horror 6 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
story that led to her suicide. He threatened her on Facebook, that if she did not co-operate, he would show her pictures to all her friends and associates on Facebook. He had gleaned her profile from her Face Book Account. Amanda did not agree and the next day her nude picture was all over the place. Her friends immediately abandoned her. She changed schools. She found a few friends in the new place, including a boy who had a girlfriend, but he pretended he had a fascination for her. But that went sour, as his girl- friend came to know of it and she created a huge stir in the school, leading to a massive embarrassment for Amanda. She went to another State in Canada, but her depression followed her- she consumed some deadly detergents, was rushed to Hospital but fortunately recovered. She then went into counselling – but the pain was too much for her to handle. She finally committed suicide.
Sexting is precisely that sending lurid messages and candid pictures of yourself to close boyfriends or girlfriends thinking it is a nice thing to do; since you are so close to him/her. The above story explains what could happen to you, if you did the same. So sexting can lead to Facebook bullying and serious consequences. In some situations, Cyberbullying is used, as the persons bullying do not see their reactions in the person they target. Actually, the repercussions can be disastrous, leading to a similar story like Amanda. If you, as a Parent, notice changes in behaviour patterns of your teen, then you need to double your observation with regard to her food habits/insomnia/ falling grades etc. If you come near his/her Computer, he/she would tend to be nervous; then you know things are not quite right. Parents must be super cautious and try and start a conversation, so that he/she
Youth could tell what’s troubling him/her. The next stage, for one so trapped, can lead to Facebook depression. They think of friends who are doing better than them, and question themselves with regard to their own situation. Why am I not as good as her/him? Things like mood swings, dress code, looks, personal figure etc. come into play. This could lead to further problems e.g. quarrels at home, slacking in studies or tending to be aloof from friends, obesity, sleeplessness, internet addiction, pinching money and spending it on things with a “I got it too” attitude. Turning to Drugs or Alcohol seem to them a solace or cure. But the reality is just the opposite. For them, the need at this juncture is instant solutions. But instant answers don’t come, so that leads to binging with friends or if alone, then drugs. The Porn Industry is a MultiBillion Dollar Business. It runs like any huge corporate. It makes sure a strong message goes through media, that porn is not addictive and does not cause harm nor attitudinal changes. Porn Industry is flourishing, due its ability to get many hooked on to it. You must remember that there are hundreds of Porn sites today and kids being what they are, know how to access them on their laptops/smartphones, etc. In the Porn pictures, the Performers (I call them so) are trained to perform make believe Sex Acts, after they are given drugs, so they can make it appear that sex is super exciting. It is a huge responsibility, specially of Parents and Student Counsellors, to educate children about the impact it creates in the lives of teens. In later years, when these students decide to marry, one partner may not enjoy a good sexual relationship, as he/she was expecting a similar performance as he/she saw in the Porn Media. This results in frustration and ultimately the marriage could land on the
rocks. We are already witnessing this in our Society to-day, where marriages are breaking up within months/few years. Porn can lead to premarital sex or masturbation. This could lead to erectile dysfunction issues. (See this Video https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=rXfZwNqVDVA) and go to this website Rebootnation.org to understand things better. Parents must realise that, if they do not do their bit, they should not later regret that their children have get into paedophilia, prostitution, drugs, alcohol or have become addicts etc. One good book Parents and teachers should read is – Good Pictures Bad Pictures. So Parents make sure the PC in the house is at a location where clandestine viewing cannot happen. Encourage children to bring their friends to the house, so you can gauge their behavioural patterns, language used etc. Again this is all laid out in a short video by Gabe Deem, founder of Reboot Nation – a website devoted to helping young men recover from porn-induced erectile dysfunction. Young people experimenting with drugs and alcohol is nothing new; however, social networking sites, use peer pressure or celebrities. Celebrities like Justin Bieber are often seen drinking, using drugs and getting high on a variety of platforms- Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat etc., so youth think that it is the right thing to do. Social media fuels prostitution and sexual exploitation especially among teens who come from poorer backgrounds, as money is a big motivator, to agree, to do wrong things. Teenage girls via social media networks like Instagram are lured into prostituting, and are taken to Airbnb or OYO apartments /Hotels, where it becomes difficult to nail the pimps. They hide behind online advertisements for ‘massages parlours and spas ‘. Teenagers who drink heavily or are into Binging, are more likely to
be involved in sexual assaults and physical fights, road accidents etc. Additionally, teens who drink, are less likely to use protection during sexual activity. This can lead to unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Families and school counsellors need to work together to help teens overcome their weakness. The amount of time that is wasted on Social media these days is astounding. Students can be convinced of their prime role in Life and encouraged to see the evils of Social Media. Then, in time, they would reduce time spent there and instead, spend time with people/friends having face to face conversations. However, if things get tougher then Parents must approach: 1.Trained Counsellors, Clinical Psychologists or Psychiatrist: Dr. Peter CASTELLINO 2. Web sites such as BARK, Qustodio, Kaspersky, Sober Grid, Nomo-Sobriety Clocks, rTribe -Quit Porn/Drug etc., Head Space 3.NGOs that deal with these problems: KRIPA FOUNDATION – ANJUNA 7499812632, PANJIM 7719883963. COLVA 9767057471, CARMONA 9834341453. Human Touch: Peter Borges :9923414559: Drugs/Aids/ AA: 9860633656/8007452757 Alcohol WeCare: 9922622782 / 9822481515 The writer is a career guidance counsellor and has worked for over 3 decades as HR professional in various companies.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 7
Courtesy: www.static01.nyt.com
YOUTH
Building Empathy The ability to understand and feel another’s emotions and sometimes thoughts is termed as EMPATHY. Another way of describing empathy is by a pretty common saying - the ability to walk in another’s shoes (not literally, of course!). BY Christina Fernandes
BY Marina Fernandes
I
magine this: you are feeling dejected or hurt, as you have not done as well as you expected, or someone said something that hurt you… and a friend who is with you, tells you exactly how you are feeling, perhaps even what you thinking but without you expressing your thoughts or feelings. If you have ever encountered such a situation, our guess is that you would have felt completely at ease, totally understood and accepted. What 8 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
your friend has just done, is that they he/she shown you EMPATHY. The ability to understand and feel another’s emotions and sometimes thoughts is termed as EMPATHY. Another way of describing empathy is by a pretty common saying - the ability to walk in another’s shoes (not literally, of course!). Sometimes, this is quite easy, when we ourselves have gone through a similar situation. But, even if we have not, by simply attempting to understand what the other must feel, can greatly help them. Empathy is innate; even an infant can feel the emotions of those close to it - specially its own mother.
However, over time it becomes our choice to be empathetic or not and unfortunately, it seems that the world has forgotten this natural tendency. Why is EMPATHY so important? Empathy gives rise to offering comfort or support or making an attempt to alleviate the suffering of another. It brings out that love and concern we have towards others, that makes us feel good and also connected to one another as ONE - NOT separate or individualistic but a sense of togetherness. This moves us to act, to attain our hope as human beings, for peace and unity. The
YOUTH world today is torn by division, exploitation, racism, oppression and abuse. EMPATHY is the cure to all these ills in society. The reality is that empathy has an immensely positive effect on any/all of our relationships, as it brings out the best in each of us. This is why we chose to write about it, and to provide you with a few suggestions on how we can all become a bit more empathetic. However, let’s first note that empathy not the same as sympathy. In empathy, you can feel more or less the same feelings that someone else is going through. In sympathy, we only feel sorry for the other person. It sometimes happens, that we are so overwhelmed with sympathy, that we lose our sense of reason. While dealing with injustices, it is important that we do not create hatred and destruction of property or life. It is important to be objective and act wisely. Empathy helps us remain objective and have constructive conversations, about bringing about a desired change, as we seek to understand both sides. It is also common that we will encounter persons, who most often cannot empathize with you or others; rather, they are critical, blame others, egoistic and hurtful. We need to relate to such persons in a respectful way. It is best to treat them, as you would treat and feel the helplessness of a blind man, who causes you to fall accidentally. Jesus Himself advocated this attitude from the cross, by saying “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do”. We can instead, turn our focus on becoming more empathetic. How do we do so? Practice is the key! 1. Cultivate curiosity- spend time with people who are different from you in various aspects (religion, age, nationality, region) and genuinely take an interest in understanding their backgrounds.
The reality is that empathy has an immensely positive effect on any/all of our relationships, as it brings out the best in each of us. In college / at the workplace, we have ample opportunities for this. Get to really know people, celebrate all festivals, have regional potluck meals, even fun trivia quizzes! The more we get to know people, the more we understand their unique experiences, and also the possible struggles they face. 2. Be present: while having a conversation, offer your full attention. Listen to understand, not to react. This is the best way to truly understand what the other is feeling and their reasons for the same. 3. Step out of your comfort zone; try new experiences, travel, volunteer, be open to new and different ideas. Start small - Take turns in your teams to plan team building activities or the next venue for a team lunch! Being open to learning new things, helps us broaden our horizons and gives us new perspectives. 4. Receive feedback - ask for feedback from those around you; those who know you well, and those who you’ve just met. Be humble and stay objective while receiving feedback. One of the best leadership tools, is to constantly ask for feedback, not just from your bosses/peers, but also (and very importantly) from your own team. 5. Examine your biases - like it or not, we all have biases and it
is important that we spend time to introspect and identify these, so that we can be more cautious in our dealing with people. This becomes even more important at the workplace; as a manager, do I treat everyone equally? 6. Validate emotions - one of the best things we can do for another and for our own sense of empathy, is to accept how another feels, and validate them. Everyone has a right to their own emotions and by allowing this, they are able to open up about their emotions and feel understood. We can’t think of a more fitting way to sum up our tips to being more empathetic, than quoting from the Bible “Do unto others as you would have it done to you.” This is our guide to grow in empathy. All you need to do through life, beginning now as a youth, is to check your thoughts words and actions while relating to others. Ask yourself: do these thoughts, words or action bring hope, encouragement, respect and betterment for the good of another? Once we begin to understand the effects of our words and actions, we can initiate change in our relationships - to bring about harmony, love and understanding. Christina Fernandes is a family & youth Counsellor and Life Skills coach.. Marina Fernandes is a HR Professional in Learning & Development, Coaching and People Management skills.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 9
We Must Protect Goa’s Wildlife and Forests
Courtesy: www.cdn.pixabay.com
Oh! Goa
Goa is actually one of the most vibrant and beautiful places with the most eccentric forests which are home to some of the rarest and most interesting birds, animals, plants and insects. BY Vikram D’Silva
W
hen you think about it, Goa is a very small state compared to others. And when compared to other similar unique lands across the world it does seem inconspicuous. Nonetheless, it is actually one of the most vibrant and beautiful places with the most eccentric forests which are home to some of the rarest and most interesting birds, animals, plants and insects. These forests provide resources and shelter and sustain hundreds of villages. They provide clean air with their large and extensive green
10 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
cover. Forest trees are known to also help in sequestering carbon. They also provide food. Forest communities harvest mushrooms, seasonal fruits, tubers and crabs from these forests. They do it sustainably without harming the habitat shared by different flora and fauna. Medicinal plants grow abundantly in the forests and the local communities know how these are used for many human ailments. Forests are sources of clean fresh water that is often tapped to the cities by damming the rivers and conveying it through pipes. These forests are self sustaining and at the same time sustain so many more creatures including us, humans. And that is why they are comparable to some pristine
habitats across the world that, like me, many have experienced, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Nusa Penida-Bali and Komodo Island in Indonesia! Sadly this is slowly deteriorating and we are failing to preserve it. These forests are part of the Western Ghats in India, a UNESCO World Heritage natural site and provide crucial core forests to tigers, leopards, deer, bison and so many other animals. These contiguous forests passing through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamilnadu and Goa are among the world’s top biodiversity hotspots! People from all over the world come to Goa to see its endemic plant and animal species. Have you seen the
Oh! Goa
People from all over the world come to Goa to see its endemic plant and animal species. Myristica Swamps in Goa? What about the state animal, Indian Bison/Gaur? And of course what about the tiger and leopard? The lesser known mammals and species are even more fascinating like the mouse deer, black panther, porcupine, wild dog/dhole, malabar giant squirrel, pangolin, sloth bear, monitor lizard, slender loris, etc. Sighting a herd of Gaur, the king cobra, striped keelbacks, hump nosed pit vipers, saw scaled vipers, etc are unforgettable experiences for me growing up and spending time in these forests. Trekking, walking and going on numerous trails is something that I have done as a child growing up and spending most of my time in the forests of Goa. Birders from the world over throng to Goa to see fliers like the malabar trogon, srilankan frogmouth, ruby throated yellow bulbul, emerald dove besides the other migrants like the lesser adjutant stork, paradise flycatcher, etc. Today these forests are battling with pollution from our cities and are sadly, slowly but surely losing the fight. Because of pollution, habitat loss, fragmentation, deforestation- forests are slowly dying and with that all the animals, birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians and fish will all vanish. If we allow this to happen then there is no going back. This destruction is not reversible. There are 3 proposed projects threatening the survival of Goa’s forests and its wildlife. The railway
line doubling, highway expansion and the electricity transmission line which will cut the forests of Goa into slices. Thus resulting in the destruction of animal corridors and animal movement patterns. Animals are born with an ingrained homing sense which means that even though they move for huge distances they still have a certain area that they would frequently come back to. Their own territory. This also means that any obstruction in these patterns can prove to be a huge threat to them. The railway line, highway widening and power transmission line have been proposed mainly for the transportation of coal from the coast of Goa to the neighbouring state of Karnataka and this will therefore lead to huge air pollution in the core forest, besides polluting the rest of Goa. These projects will also increase the incidence of road kills. This will lead to the loss of crucial species in the food cycle. Especially apex predators like tigers, leopards and king cobras. The loss of these species will affect all other species as it will result in the overpopulation of prey species like
deer, gaur, mice, etc. And this will create an imbalance in the forest. There have already been countless incidents of leopards being hit by trucks and tigers and their cubs losing their lives in the same way. Many snakes also get killed on roads. Pangolins are critically endangered and they also face a threat in this way. Many civet cats, mongooses, monitor lizards, frogs, toads, caecilians, crocodiles and otters have been reported recently to have been killed on the roads and railway tracks that pass through the forests of Goa. To put it in short, every single animal in the forests of Goa is going to get affected in some way or the other. From a grasshopper to Gaur, and rats to kites and pythons to parakeets. We need to step up before it is too late. We cannot afford to lose these animals. We cannot afford to lose these forests. We need to raise our voices. Let the Government know about the damage. We need to save Goa. The writer is a 10th Standard Student, a young writer and snake rescuer. He loves wildlife and exploring forests.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 11
inside India
Save Aarey – Save Mumbai
Aarey is home to thousands of trees and varieties of flora and fauna. It is a self-sustaining eco system comprising of snakes, cobras, pythons and myriad species of birds, frogs, spiders and butterflies. BY Fr. Joseph Gonsalves
The Setting: Aarey forest is an ecologically sensitive spot in Mumbai near Goregaon and is referred to as the ‘The Green Lungs’ of the city, as it is spread over 13,000 acres of land. Aarey is home to thousands of trees and varieties of flora and fauna. It is a self-sustaining eco system comprising of snakes, 12 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
cobras, pythons and myriad species of birds, frogs, spiders and butterflies. Leopards have been spotted and also been rescued by the Forest department officials from the Aarey forest. In 2019, a new species of frog and an insect were discovered. There are also Adivasi hamlets known as ‘padas’. There are 27 adivasi padas who are the original inhabitants and sustain on cultivating fruits and vegetables. Thus, it is rich in biodiversity and an eco-system that provides life to multiple plants, birds, animals and livelihood to
tribal communities. The Crisis: In 2015, the Maharashtra government, in order to tackle the travelling woes of the public and further build infrastructure in Mumbai, decided that the Metro Car Shed could be constructed at Aarey Colony. However, this proposed construction at Aarey, would entail paying a heavy cost, as it would lead to destruction of environment i.e. felling of 2700 trees. The Mumbai Civic body gave permission to Mumbai Metro Rail
Inside India Corporation to cut down 2700 trees. This would certainly impact the natural habitat of several wild life and harm the bio-diversity of the place. The People’s Movement: To challenge this move by the civic authorities and to protect the Aarey forest, many NGO’s came together and highlighted the issue through social networking sites and appealed to people to oppose the proposed move of the government at the cost of environmental destruction. The letter of protests were written to the Chief Minister, the National Green Tribunal and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. The Save Aarey Forest Movement gathered steam, as many people joined in the protest, to protect the green lungs of Mumbai. Thousands of emails were sent to the concerned government officials to reconsider the decision. Various petitions against the proposed move of the government were also filed in the court. A three-kilometre-long human chain was formed by concerned citizens to protests against the felling of the trees in September 2019. Three youngsters produced a rap video and uploaded it on YouTube to express their concerns. Various posters, songs and educative material highlighting the issue were released and circulated on social media. Social media was effectively used to create awareness and disseminate information about the consequences of environmental destruction. Unfortunately, the Bombay High Court dismissed all petitions against the axing of trees at Aarey and allowed Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation to cut 2500 trees for the construction of the Metro Car Shed. This led to a series of protests among activists, students, celebrities and also common
The Save Aarey Forest Movement gathered steam, as many people joined in the protest, to protect the green lungs of Mumbai. people. The protests intensified as large crowds of people gathered at Aarey road. The police imposed section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in Aarey and surrounding areas by cordoning off the area and restricted the free movement of protestors and banning all gatherings. Despite the massive protests, the felling of the trees continued and 29 protestors were also arrested for clashing with the police and trying to prevent the felling of the trees. The environmental activists and the protestors tried every possible way to save the trees from being cut, but sadly could not succeed. A Ray of Hope: In a surprise move, in September 2020 the new Chief Minister of Maharashtra decided to impose section 4 of the Indian Forest Act (IFA) on 600 Acres of Aarey land declaring it as a Reserve forest. The clear implication of this decision was that the Metro Car Shed will not be constructed at Aarey rather it will be relocated to a new place in Kanjurmarg. Though thousands of trees have already been hacked this move by the Maharashtra government means that no further development activities will take place in the ecologically sensitive zone of Aarey. This was certainly a welcome move that signifies people’s victory.
Ecology Versus Development: Is economic development more important than environment protection and the conservation of natural resources. Do the protestors against the metro car shed at Aarey forest have antidevelopment mind-set? As this debate continues, the agenda of the present government is clear that environment will be sacrificed at the altar of development. The larger question that we need to address is whose development? Is it the development of people, of largescale multinational companies or select sections of Indian society? Economic growth and development at the cost of ecological destruction, means we are only digging our own graves and leaving our mother earth more fragile, thereby adding to the climate crisis looming over our heads. What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up? (Laudato Si 160) This is a million-dollar question that Pope Francis has raised in his encyclical Laudato Si released in 2015. Is it going to be a broken, wounded and uninhabitable world or a beautiful world, as handed over to us by God?
The Writer is a professor at the Goregaon Seminary, Mumbai. He is the Co-ordinator of Prison Ministry Mumbai and head of the Archdiocesan Office for Environment, Mumbai.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 13
global Gaze
Courtesy: www.media.eurekalert.org
Healthy Ecosystems equals to Healthy People
The concept of One Health is a collaborative, multi-sectoral and transdisciplinary approach working at local, national and global levels, in achieving optimal health outcomes recognizing the interconnection between people, animals, plants and their shared environment. BY Conchita Monteiro
BY Mithila Prabhudesai
W
hile talking about health and our concerns with respect to diversion of forests in Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park for the three linear projects; we wish to highlight the concept of One Health and its increasing importance in our times. This forest, with its rich floral and faunal biodiversity, environmental values and links between ecosystem resilience and human health needs our utmost attention, as we are a generation that face the
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effects of climate change: declining biodiversity, freshwater and arable land shortage, apart from the effects of air and water pollution. The concept of One Health is a collaborative, multi-sectoral and transdisciplinary approach working at local, national and global levels, in achieving optimal health outcomes - recognizing the interconnection between people, animals, plants and their shared environment. The increasing importance of this concept lies in the fact that, of the contagious diseases affecting human, more than 65% are of zoonotic or animalto-man origin. These include the avian influenza, swine flu, monkey
fever, coronavirus infections, AIDS, etc. In this context, it is important to recognize that a growing human footprint and its expansion into new geographical territories, increases chances of human-animal interactions and the frequency of vectors and viruses coming into contact with humans. The increasing stress on animals due to loss of their habitat would increase the scope of zoonotic diseases and we should expect and be prepared to face more and more such infections in the coming days, considering climate change and environmental degradation. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research
global Gaze
Clearing of forest area for cultivation causes changes in thick fauna and is considered as an important risk factor for outbreaks. (ICMR), “clearing of forest area for cultivation causes changes in thick fauna and is considered as an important risk factor for outbreaks”. The outbreak of monkey fever or Kysanur Forest Disease (KFD) that originated in the Kysanur Forest of Karnataka and spread to neighbouring states of Goa and Maharashtra has been attributed to deforestation. In the taluka of Sattari, at least 35 individuals had been affected by the KFD disease, specific treatment for the same isn’t available, leaving some of the most marginalized forest dwellers at risk. The research regarding zoonotic diseases often focuses on infectious diseases that animals pass on to humans, the opposite is also a cause of concern where reports indicate that humans can transmit pathogens to non-humans (for example, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, influenza A virus, Cryptosporidium parvum and Ascaris lumbricoides). Apart from physical health, the therapeutic benefits derived from being amidst natural vegetation in forests like the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park cannot be denied. The peace and serenity derived from forest bathing is a welldocumented fact in various parts of the world. This helps alleviate stress,
lowers blood pressure, improves mood, increases ability to focus; even in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It also boosts the body’s immune system, by increasing anticancer proteins and enhancing the activity of certain cancer fighting cells. These are reasons itself, to prioritise keeping such habitats
undisturbed. The health hazards of coal transmission by rail and road has already affected the citizens of Vasco; with increase in cases of pneumoconiosis, tuberculosis and asthma, due to breathing in coal dust. The presence of carbon particles found in the lung parenchyma of the residents in Vasco is the reason why people they have a weak immune system
and thus are more susceptible to COVID. As far as statistics are concerned, the Government of Goa is on record in LAQ reply in the Assembly last year. That about 5,000 people from Vasco were treated at GMC and TB & Chest Hospital at Panjim for respiratory ailments in the last five years. The population of Vasco and Mormugao is about 90,000 - this means that about 1 of every 20 residents needed to be treated at GMC for chest and respiratory ailments. The data of people treated at private hospitals and doctors is unknown, but one can only imagine the number of people who are treated that way. More recently we have the statistics of COVID-19 cases and deaths, where a substantial number of people who died are from Mormugao area which vindicates international studies that people with exposure to high air pollution are more likely to fall victim to COVID due their compromised respiratory systems. Understanding and acting upon these challenges calls for collaborations across disciplinary and boundaries to safeguard our health and environment. Conchita Monteiro is a nature lover and a person who believes in sustainable development. Mithila Prabhudesai is a second year MBBS student at the Goa Medical College, Bambolim Goa.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 15
Cover FEATURE
Battling deforestation for sustainable development
Courtesy: www.cd/n.abcotvs.comdip
Between 1990 and 2016, the world lost 502,000 square miles (1.3 million square kilometers) of forest, according to the World Bank— an area larger than South Africa.
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COVER FEATURE The forest is a peculiar organism of unlimited kindness and benevolence that makes no demands for its sustenance and extends generously the products of its life activity; it affords protection to all beings, offering shade even to the axe-man who destroys it.
-Gautama Buddha
BY Mithila Prabhudesai
T
o me and so many others, a forest is a magical place. It is a place where time stills itself, where thoughts find rest, where the soul finds peace. It is a healing place for the hurting heart and mind. It is a place where you feel loved and protected. Forests are an intricate ecosystem on earth, that consist of flora and fauna. They cover 4.06 billion hectares globally, although not equally distributed. They provide shelter for the wildlife within, maintain ecological balance and provide us with so much! Moreover, forests are largely responsible for preserving the physical features of our planet. They monitor soil erosion and prevent it from happening. Further, they alleviate floods by making the streams flow continually. This, in turn, helps our agriculture to a great extent. They regulate the water cycle and carbon cycle. They prevent calamities from striking their damage. Thus, it is imperative that we protect our lush green carpets and promote sustainable living. Alas, we humans have taken our green spaces for granted and recklessly fell away millions and millions of trees for our twisted sense of “development”. Between 1990 and 2016, the world lost 502,000 square miles (1.3 million square kilometers) of forest, according to the World Bank—an area larger than South Africa. With the advent of several natural
The most wellknown effect of deforestation is the threat to its biodiversity. By destroying forests, we are causing a natural imbalance. calamities hitting us, one would think that the people would take a pause and think over their actions and try to rectify their mistake and work towards protecting forest land which would result in protecting human race. It is sad to note that while the governments have drawn up protocols and agreements, deforestation on large scale still remains one of the many evils. A large section of the population, still seems to be unaware or perhaps, is not able to connect the dots when it
comes to ill effects of deforestation. Thus, it is wise to revisit the effects of deforestation and make it a point to talk about it as much as we can. The most well-known effect of deforestation is the threat to its biodiversity. By destroying forests, we are causing a natural imbalance. Forests provide shade, and food for the organisms thriving there. By cutting trees, we are putting their lives at threat. A recent study found that extreme environmental change could trigger an “extinction domino effect.” One of the study’s authors said, “Because all species are connected in the web of life, our paper demonstrates that even the most tolerant species ultimately succumb to extinction when the less-tolerant species on which they depend disappear.” Thus, we must realize that extinction of a minor species now, which may seem irrelevant, may cause disastrous effects in the future, for us. Having experienced a pandemic of a zoonotic origin, it is important to know that deforestation
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COVER FEATURE is a factor in cause of zoonosis. Zoonosis is the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans. With deforestation, the human animal conflict and interaction has been on the rise, thus creating a favorable pathway for transmission of such diseases. In addition to health, it is important to note that forests provide for the livelihood of billions of people - especially the forest dwelling communities who have been dependent on forests for their food and shelter. Deforestation is taking it away from them, thus disrupting their lives. Soil erosion is one of the main concerns of deforestation. Forests help maintain a healthy soil profile, enhance the land’s capacity to store water, and moderate air and soil temperatures. Soil erosion caused by deforestation can lead to food insecurity in the future. Deforestation heavily impacts climate change. Felling of trees means that the captured CO2 (by trees) would be released into the air and there would be a lesser number of trees to capture the CO2, which would mean increased CO2 levels in the environment causing greenhouse effect. As a matter of fact, while food and agriculture
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account for 24% of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation is estimated to be responsible for 10-15% of all anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Deforestation also has an impact on the water cycle. Thus, the onus is on us to try making a difference and protecting what is left. While deforestation is caused by a multitude of reasons, we will be focusing on deforestation for development. This point is being highlighted over the recent protests in Goa, to save Mollem national park and Bhagwaan Mahaveer wildlife Sanctuary from 3 recklessly planned projects - 1. Expansion of National highway 4A 2. Setting up of a 400Kv Transmission line. 3. Doubling of the existing Southwestern railway tracks which would result in felling of more than 80,000 trees in a protected forest area. These projects have been approved without due process and considerations and also go on to violate the forest conservation acts, 1972 - section 29 and section 35(6) which state that no destruction whatsoever can be made to the land and waterways of any wildlife sanctuary/national park unless it is for the improvement and better management of the wildlife therein. A debate thus ensued as to whether it was okay to sacrifice part of our forests for development, and, if we do talk of sustainable development, where is it that we draw a line between what’s environmentally degrading and what’s sustainable? In my opinion, it is important for a nation to be developed, but the said development should not cause massive environmental degradation. This brings in the concept of “Sustainable development”. Sustainable development is the idea that human societies must live and meet their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
This model of development heavily emphasizes the need to develop projects that are absolutely necessary and can last for long durations that will benefit humankind. It also emphasizes on a shift to greener means of energy acquirement. It asks to minimize the depletion of natural resources when creating new developments. To provide methods for retrofitting existing developments to make them environmentally friendly facilities and projects. So, when we speak of the Mollem projects, our first question should be, are the projects truly necessary? Speaking of the transmission lines, according to the 19th electric survey of India, domestic usage of electricity was 31% of the total energy acquired. Within the next 7 years, the projected figures show a slight increment in the use (374.5 Million units increment). 61% of the total consumption was by industries. In the next 7 years, the increment is projected to increase by 1425.6 MU. The future projections are extrapolated on past trends by the EPS every 10 years and there has been consistent over-estimation whereby the state purchases more power than required. It is evident that the major usage of electricity is by industries and not domestic consumers, as opposed to what has been claimed (that the power will benefit the people of the state). So we should ask the government, if we need additional power supply that must come by destroying vast forest lands, who is it for? What type of industries are going to come in the near future? Today, if not all villages are getting adequate electricity, why is that so, especially when we are a power surplus state? Other alternatives which are ecofriendly should also be urged to be looked into. India has been hailed for its constant effort in bringing
COVER FEATURE green energies into the country. We also have the largest solar farm, so why is it that instead of going ahead, we want to go backward in terms of development? In addition, the environment impact assessment has not been provided on the public government portal. The lawyers also are of the opinion that Mollem was never the first choice for this project. So the question here is, why has Mollem been chosen? If we speak of the expanding roadway, it is important to note that as per a study done earlier, there have been no findings of road accidents due to the width or condition of the road. Majority of the accidents have taken place due to negligence by the drivers. Even in the report by the government, the cause of accidents for which the expansion is being done, has not been highlighted. What is
interesting to note here, is that the doubling of the road on the Karnataka side passes through the Kali tiger reserve. Tigers being our national animals and a very endangered species, it is a wonder how such a project that would disturb the majestic creatures, be approved. Without adequate knowledge or information on the reason behind giving green signal to a project that would destroy our forests, it surely is not an example of sustainable development. The EIA for the doubling of railways is highly flawed and greatly misrepresented. The number of mammals has been underreported. Our state wildlife symbols like the Gaur have missed a mention in this report. Health hazards like damage due to increased e-coli concentrations in water have been mentioned. A detailed report of
the peer review of this EIA has been broken down well, with good illustrations on @mymollem.goa and @mollem.memory.project on Instagram, SaveMollemGoa on Twitter and fb. If we speak about Mollem, from research done for several months, I can conclude that these projects aren’t really required. Some do have alternatives, like the transmission line. The project benefits only a certain section of people - mostly industrialists. There will be more harm done to the environment than the benefits that the projects would reap. I am of the opinion that these projects are not sustainable. Sustainable development should be inclusive of all, with minimal damage to other species. It is a way where we co-exist with harmony. For further reading, the United Nations have given 17 goals known as sustainable development Goals (SDGs) which can be accessed by anyone. The 15th goal is as follows - Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. So after having been through a year that has shown us that earth hasn’t lost its ability to heal itself, let us strive to move ahead with development that is protective of all and that provides for most, instead of going backward and supporting development that is exclusive of majority and harmful to the surroundings. As we celebrate World Wildlife day and International day of Forests in March, let us pledge to protect our forests for ourselves and our future generations. Let us join hands to be “Earth Warriors”. Mithila Prabhudesai is a second year MBBS student at the Goa Medical College, Bambolim Goa. She likes to be vocal about environmental destruction. She is creating awareness through writing, dance or drama.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 19
Mission musings
Mission Aprilia
It is sad to see that the people of the places from where our ancestors had received their faith and were edified to follow the Christian path have become lukewarm.
BY Fr. Pio Rego, SFX
I
remember two common methods of paddy cultivation in Goa: the broadcasting method (vompop) wherein the seeds are manually scattered in the field, and the transplantation method (Torvo ghalop) wherein the seedlings are transplanted from the nursery to the entire field area after three or four leaves sprout from the seed. While the latter requires more labour input than the former, it also yields more than the former. The same principle of nature is applicable in our lives too. The efforts we put in, the changes and hardships we endure, do contribute in producing better fruits. Every place has a story of its own which includes its culture, language, lifestyle, food-habits, beliefs, etc. 20 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
We have seen the works of some of the finest actors who, besides doing a good research, live the situation of the character that they are to play. A missionary does much more than that, because his work can never be effective, if he works as an outsider. He uproots himself from his own culture and gets himself implanted into the cultural situation of his workplace. Following my transfer from Bathinda in Punjab to Aprilia in Italy, the initial struggles with the language and the new situation were terrible. At Bathinda, with so many villages and a vast city area to cover, with a lot of active ministry of catechising and guiding people, while at the same time learning from their life situation and being nourished by their faith experiences, life here meant being surrounded all the time by people, whereas life in Aprilia was mostly on the quieter side. For me, the transfer was from being a well contributing missionary to a novice, who still has a lot more to learn. However, changes and struggles do enhance quality, teach a new lesson in life
to those who are willing to learn, and serve as a reference point for the future. The sound of silence experienced while working in the western world is deafening, but it is a great opportunity to further interiorize my Christian faith. In the process of evangelizing others, in the noise of activities there could be a temptation to neglect self-evangelization which needs to be done continuously, and in all situations. In the Gospels, we have numerous examples of Jesus contemplating His mission in prayerful union with God the Father, before executing it. If the people are to encounter the Christ, they must first experience the compassion of the Jesus of the Gospels in the one who carries His Message. It is sad to see that the people of the places from where our ancestors had received their faith and were edified to follow the Christian path have become lukewarm. Augusta Deiana, an elderly faithful parishioner of Parrocchia Natività di Maria Santissima, Aprilia (Nativity of Our Lady Parish)
Mission musings recalls the Catholic family life of her youth days, saying “Even though not having much knowledge of the Bible, we had a very strong faith, with great devotion to the Eucharist, and respect for the Sacraments. Some families have passed on the values of faith, while the others have not.” Those who have inherited the values of faith, besides frequenting the Church services, contribute towards various activities of the Church like liturgy, choir, caritas, oratory, teaching catechism, cleaning and maintenance of the Church and others. Federico Cola, a youth, says that faith has become a subjective matter for people of the younger generation: while some crazily follow their role models, others are carried away by certain ideas or philosophies, yet others are caught up in materialism. From a young age, children feel more compelled to conform to their peers, rather than to the standards of the communitarian faith they were born into, because they do not have models of faith to look up to, in the environment that they grow up. Parents do bring their children for catechism, but many a times after the reception of the Sacraments of Communion and Confirmation their relationship with the Church are severed. However, some do attend Church occasionally. In this cultural situation, the Members of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier who are called by the virtue of their Charism “to make Jesus Christ present among Christians who have become indifferent to Him” have been trying to make a difference in the faith-life of the people by implementing innovative methods of re-evangelization, and by motivating them to live their Christian faith. I would say that, whatever may be the situation we work in, we
A call to be a missionary is a call to Adventure - adventure nourished and sustained by faith - that keeps a missionary going. need to heed to Mother Teresa’s advice “If you judge people, you have no time to love them”, and use our pastoral intelligence to assess the situation and do what is to be done, after discerning the will of God. We must allow the situation to speak to us, in order to be inspired with new ideas and avoid the temptation to do what I feel is good or just implement a model of evangelization, that is successful in some other situation. I vividly remember the tenyear old conversation at our breakfast table during my posting at Batim, Goa, to tend to the young seminarians aspiring to be future Missionaries. The conversation was - “Life in the Indian missions is tough, life in the formation houses is tougher, and life in the missions abroad is the toughest”. Having lived through these situations, I can testify it to be true. Placing the Indian missions in the positive degree of toughness, the formation houses in the comparative degree, and the missions abroad in the superlative degree does not mean that the workload and hardships are less in the Indian missions of the Society and more in the missions abroad. On the contrary, more often it could be just the opposite. A call to be a missionary is a call to Adventure - adventure nourished and sustained by faith - that keeps a missionary going.
Love for God and humanity ignites a fire in the belly, which gives rise to new ideas to carry forward the entrusted mission. Faith in God gives confidence to the heart, that the efforts put in will bear fruits, at the right time. Most of those who join a missionary congregation, intentionally do so because they are driven by adventure and challenge. Thus, fitting to the call, the degree of toughness is not related to the hardships involved - because when God calls us, He grants us the required grace too. We learn to adjust in every situation. Nonetheless, when needed, a missionary must be willing to work in any situation, seeking new avenues to bring about freshness in the given situation; with a never-say-die attitude. In my opinion, toughness for a missionary is related to the lack of scope for adventure and creativity, because he would rather prefer to work in structures that are more informal and places that are less privileged - seeing them through in their material and spiritual progress. Being able to contribute selflessly towards making a difference in the lives of others, gives tremendous joy and contentment. It does not even matter whether your work is acknowledged or not. It is enough that it is done out of genuine love. Such opportunities are less in formal and advanced structures since any interventions, even those of spiritual nature, could be considered as an encroachment into the personal freedom of a person. Thus, the pastoral satisfaction of working in India is much higher than working in the western countries. The writer is a member of the Society of Pilar. He is a missionary working in Aprilia, Italy
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 21
Mission musings
Lay-missionaries in Frontier-missions Sans Cleric-missionaries (III) lay-missionaries not only ‘prepared the way’ for the cleric-missionaries into new geographicalfrontiers, but also facilitated the entry of clericmissionaries to new geographical-frontiers or frontier-missions.
BY Dr. Fr. Francis Carvalho, sfx
1. Introduction In my previous instalment, I had mentioned that the Portuguese traders had lived their Catholic faith and morals in Bengal of the 16th century (cir. 1537) for a couple of decades without or sans any clerics in the Bengal of the times. The clerics of the Order of St. Augustine are said to have arrived there from Goa only around 1600. More examples may be cited in this 22 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
regard, as I expound my argument that the lay-missionaries not only ‘prepared the way’ for the clericmissionaries into new geographicalfrontiers, but also facilitated the entry of cleric-missionaries to new geographical-frontiers or frontiermissions.
2. Lay-missionaries: Walk the Faith in the Frontier-missions Economic interests, as it has been noted in my earlier instalment, had been the driving force for migration of people from their original territory to another. The trading class of every culture is known to have been pioneers
in this regard. As pioneers, these traders are said to have blazed the trails for others to follow them to the new-found lands. The force of my argument, however, is to show that these pioneers blazed the trails not only by mapping out land or sea routes but also by walking their faith and morals in the new-found lands – that too without or sans the clerics in the new-found lands. It is the latter activity, that entitles these to be designated not only as laymissionaries but also as pioneering missionaries – in the Christian sense of the term. I am emphasizing this aspect, forcefully, in order to acknowledge
Mission musings the pioneering mission activity of the laypersons or lay-missionaries in the Catholic Church – because, traditionally, such pioneering mission activity in the Catholic Church is generally credited to cleric-missionaries. It is worth repeating here, what has been mentioned earlier regarding the belief and value systems of the adherents of culture travelling with them in their newfound land. It could, therefore, be said that these adherents literally walked their belief and cultural values into this new territory. And when they settled down in this new territory, they also made their presence felt there. Even as, initially, their faith and cultural values would have been considered as strange/ foreign by the original settlers, their integration in the new territory was a life-long affair – as cultural anthropologists tell us. This integration will, basically, depend on the degree of the economic interests all concerned had as their common agenda in the new territory. For example, in my earlier write-ups on the rise and fall of the Padroado mission in Bengal of the 16th century I had mentioned as how Bandel of the times had, gradually, become a flourishing global trading centre in the eastern coast of India mainly due to the fact that economic interest was the sole common agenda for the ruling Mogul emperors, the entrepreneur Portuguese traders and the indigenous people of Bengal. It is only when other interests, like political interests, get mixed up with economic interests, when a chaotic situation arises - leading to a crisis of identity among the concerned stakeholders. 3. Walking the Faith: Apostolate of Presence The term ‘walking the faith’ is used here to expound the theme of ‘faith travelling with the believer
In missionlogical circles this ‘walking the faith’ is considered as the apostolate of presence. and making it present with one’s presence’ in the new-found land. In mission-logical circles this ‘walking the faith’ is considered as the apostolate of presence. It has been noted above that the Portuguese traders not only prepared the way for the clericmissionaries ‘by walking’ their Catholic faith and morals amidst non-Christian indigenous people of Bengal of the 16th century but also facilitated the entry of the cleric-missionaries into Bengal of the 16th century. It is ‘for walking’ their Catholic faith and morals in Bengal of the 16th century that the Portuguese traders can be designated not only as laymissionaries but also as pioneering missionaries. Readers may feel a bit dismayed at this designation of the laypersons – like traders and sailors – as lay-missionaries. This dismay is understandable for the reason that traders and sailors are, popularly, known for their dubious morals or notorious ethics. For example, in his book ‘Bandel Church and Hooghly’ (20135), S.A. Carvalho writes about the life-style of the Portuguese traders in Bandel port town: they dressed up like Nawabs, lived luxuriously in the port, eating and drinking and making merry with their dancing girls, seamstresses, cooks and confectioners (pg. 34). In the same breath, however, the same author does make
mention also of the lived-faith of the same Portuguese traders and sailors, which they manifested, mainly, by putting up a tower and a church/shrine in honour of Our Lady of Happy Voyage (aka Our Lady of Bandel) – whom they invoked, as Lady of the Tower, for her protection during their journeys in the stormy seas and oceans. The author adds further that the indigenous non-Christian people, with their naive faith and devotion, followed the example of their Christian brethren and unhesitatingly they too began to offer their homage to Our Lady of Bandel. It is this shrine that, later on, was placed under the custody of the Augustinian Friars on their arrival at Bandel in around 1600 (pg. 34). 4. Conclusion By way of conclusion it could be firmly asserted that the Portuguese traders – as pioneering laymissionaries – walked their faith in Bengal of the 16th century, the land of their commerce, and left behind footprints of their Catholic faith on the sands of time. One of these footprints is the shrine to Our Lady of Happy Voyage at Bandel on the river Hooghly, which these traders erected without or sans the presence of cleric-missionaries and which, today, has become a pilgrim centre, especially to the descendants of the indigenous devotees of Our Lady of Bandel. This is only one such example, which goes to show, how the lay-missionaries not only walked their faith but also prepared the way for the cleric-missionaries in their new mission-frontiers. More on this theme will be expounded in the next instalment.
The writer is a member of the Society of Pilar. He has a Doctorate in Canon Law and is a visiting professor at Pilar Theological College, Goa.
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 23
SPIRITUALITY
The Church Needs to Get Involved!
St. Pope John XXIII in his 1963 Encyclical ‘Pacem in Terris’, he underlines the inviolability of human rights and the four non-negotiables of Truth, Justice, Charity and Liberty which are fundamental for sustainable peace.
BY Fr Cedric Prakash SJ
F
ifty years ago, in 1971, the Synod of Bishops released a landmark document entitled ‘Justice in the World’. The Synodal document in the section on ‘The Gospel Message and the Mission of the Church’ said, “in the face of the present-day situation of the world, marked as it is by the grave sin of injustice, we recognize both our responsibility and our inability to overcome it by our own strength. Such a situation urges us to listen with a humble and 24 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
open heart to the word of God, as he shows us new paths toward action, in the cause of justice in the world.” It further stated, “while the Church is bound to give witness to justice, she recognizes that anyone who ventures to speak to people about justice must first be just in their eyes. Hence we must undertake an examination of the modes of acting and of the possessions and the life style found within the Church herself.” Adding, “Action on behalf of justice and participation in the transformation of the world, fully appear to us as a constitutive dimension of the preaching of the Gospel, or, in other words, of the church’s mission for the
redemption of the human race and its liberation from every oppressive situation”. That Synod was the outcome of a significant period in the history of the Church. A key question at Vatican Council II was “what does it mean to be the Church of God in the modern world?” The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World ‘Gaudium et Spes’ was a fitting response to what St. Pope John XXIII wanted as the sum and substance of a historic intervention. In his 1963 Encyclical ‘Pacem in Terris’, he underlines the inviolability of human rights and the four non-
SPIRITUALITY negotiables of Truth, Justice, Charity and Liberty which are fundamental for sustainable peace; using that profound statement “There is a saying of St. Augustine which has particular relevance in this context: “Take away justice, and what are kingdoms but mighty bands of robbers “ Since then, all the Popes have reiterated the Church’s position for a more just society. Pope Benedict XVI in his Encyclical ‘Caritas in Veritate’ says strongly, “Love- caritas-is an extraordinary force which leads people to opt for courageous and generous engagement, in the field of justice and peace”. Pope Francis insists that political involvement is an essential part of Christian discipleship. With his usual directness, he said during a daily Mass homily in 2013. “Politics, according to the Social Doctrine of the Church, is one of the highest forms of charity, because it serves the common good. I cannot wash my hands, eh? We all have to give something! A good Catholic meddles in politics, offering the best of himself, so that those who govern can govern.” In ‘Evangelii Gaudium’ he asserts that when human rights and gospel values are threatened “a prophetic voice must be raised.” We are in the ‘Laudato Si’ year; Pope Francis in his 2015 Encyclical says, “In the present condition of global society, where injustices abound and growing numbers of people are deprived of basic human rights and considered expendable, the principle of the common good immediately becomes, logically and inevitably, a summons to solidarity and a preferential option for the poorest of our brothers and sisters. This option entails recognizing the implications of the universal destination of the world’s good… it demands, before all else, an appreciation of the immense dignity of the poor in the light of our deepest convictions as believers. We need
only look around us to see that, today, this option is in fact an ethical imperative, essential for effectively attaining the common good.” Pope Francis is particularly strong in ‘Fratelli Tutti’ “the Church, while respecting the autonomy of political life, does not restrict her mission to the private sphere. On the contrary, “she cannot and must not remain on the sidelines” in the building of a better world, or fail to “reawaken the spiritual energy” that can contribute to the betterment of society. It is true that religious ministers must not engage in the party politics that are the proper domain of the laity, but neither can they renounce the political dimension of life itself, which involves a constant attention to the common good and a concern for integral human development. The Church “has a public role over and above her charitable and educational activities”. She works for “the advancement of humanity and of universal fraternity” She does not claim to compete with earthly powers, but to offer herself as “a family among families, this is the Church, open to bearing witness in today’s world, open to faith hope and love for the Lord and for those whom he loves with a preferential love. A home with open doors. The Church is a home with open doors, because she is a mother”. And in imitation of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, “we want to be a Church that serves, that leaves home and goes forth from its places of worship, goes forth from its sacristies, in order to accompany life, to sustain hope, to be the sign of unity… to build bridges, to break down walls, to sow seeds of reconciliation”. In 2012, at the XXX CBCI Meet in Bangalore on ‘The Church’s Role for a Better India’, the Bishops statement said, “We sensed in our hearts our country’s yearning for a Better India. Our country has been noted for its deep spirituality, its
saints and sages, its rich diversity of cultures and religions. People yearn for the ideal enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution of India of a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic which will secure for its citizens Justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation. But this yearning has remained largely unfulfilled. Economic development has brought about increasing inequities, an ever-widening gap between the rich and the poor, with consequent tensions spilling over into violence. We see around us, a betrayal of the poor and marginalized, the tribals, dalits and other backward classes, women and other groups who live in dehumanising and oppressive poverty. We witness rampant exploitation of children. There is disappointment with those in public life, for whom ethical concerns matter little. The Church does not wish to rest on her laurels. She recommits herself to being a prophetic Church, taking a decisive stand in favour of the poor and marginalized “We envision an India with more attributes of the Kingdom of God such as justice and equity with its consequent fruits of love, peace and joy.” In February 2014, the CBCI
Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021 | 25
SPIRITUALITY Meet in Palai, Kerala on, ‘Renewed Church for a Renewed Society – Responding to the Call of Vatican II’, the Bishops statement was emphatic, “When we look at our country, we see corruption plaguing every sphere of society. In such a scenario, Church institutions must be an example of transparency and probity. Another phenomenon is that of internal migration which, while opening opportunities to people, has torn the cultural and religious moorings that sustained them. Globalization too has brought in its wake problems like prolonged working hours, which have disrupted family life. We witness the trend to fundamentalism, which seeks to dilute the secular character of our nation. Against this trend, we stand by the values upheld by the Indian Constitution and appeal to governments to respect these values” …. “The experience of God, will lead us to involvement in and solidarity with the marginalized and the exploited, those suffering from disabilities, those living in the peripheries of economic, cultural and social spheres. We will speak out against all forms of injustice meted out to them and we will defend their rights. We listened to the call of Pope Francis urging us to “work to eliminate the structural causes of poverty and to promote the integral development of the poor. We want the Church to be truly a Church of the Poor.” Sadly, times have changed; for many in the Church, the understanding today is that if one is on the ‘right’ side of the powerful means that one’s privileges and possessions are seemingly ‘secure’ and the internal corruption and scandals are not ‘touched’. Church teachings on the social realities of today are not studied and reflected upon, nor promulgated and internalised by a fairly large section of the Church today. They rarely form part of our Catechesis, 26 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
The Catholic Church is not apolitical! But where then are the official statements by the Church in India, on the current protests of the farmers demanding the immediate revocation of the three anti-farmer laws? our homilies, talks and writings; most Church media are muted on matters of national importance, clearly apathetic; forgetting the opening words of ‘Gaudium et Spes’, the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, these are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ. The Catholic Church is not apolitical! But where then are the official statements by the Church in India, on the current protests of the farmers demanding the immediate revocation of the three anti-farmer laws? Or in keeping with the letter and spirit of ‘Rerum Novarum’ is there any challenge to the recent anti-worker Labour Codes? Or in keeping with the mandate of ‘Laudato Si’ what is the official stand against the destruction of the Mollem reservation, and what is happening to the Aravalli Hills and the Western Ghats and the increased use of fossil fuels through the auctioning of coal blocks? Or when a climate change
activist Disha Ravi is arrested? What about the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), the sedition and other draconian laws and for those incarcerated under them – are we visible and vocal, demanding the immediate repeal of such anti-people laws and for the unconditional release of all those illegally jailed? What about ‘love jihad’? Some High Courts have already declared it unconstitutional. That some Church hierarchy can support such a law is downright immoral and against the teachings of Jesus. An adult has a right to marry the person of one’s choice and also to embrace the religion of one’s choice. There are sufficient provisions in the CrPC to address any force or fraud. What about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)? or for that matter the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35 A in Kashmir? Are there any statements on the stifling of freedom of speech and expression in the country, the consistent attacks on freedom of religion? Migrants suffer very much (we have seen this during this pandemic); in keeping with the Church directives, have we been only their benefactors or have we truly accompanied them, in the protection of their rights? There are several Catholics: laity, nuns and priests who have taken a stand on some of the issues! That however is not enough; Jesus was deeply concerned about the deep- rooted injustices of his time and took a visible and vocal stand against them. The Catholic Church in India can no longer remain a silent spectator and pretend that it is apolitical! Jesus was never apolitical; the Catholic Church is not apolitical; it must get involved!! The writer is a member of the Society of Jesus. He is a human rights and peace activist/ writer.
SPIRITUALITY
Going Through the Forest in a Different Ecological Way The quest for development and human mastery over creation, coupled with greed and the free-market economy leaves little scope for environmental considerations. BY Bishop Allwyn D’Silva
P
ope Francis cares, and rightly so, for the Earth; especially the Forest. This is evident in Querida Amazonia (Beloved Amazon) - a 94page document - in which he makes an impassioned plea to world leaders, transnational companies, and people everywhere to step up and protect the Amazon rainforest along with its best stewards: the indigenous people who live there. Being addressed to “the people of God and to all persons of goodwill,” the exhortations in this document, are applicable to everyone, everywhere, since as Pope Francis writes in Querida Amazonia, “We are water, air, earth and life of the environment created by God. For this reason, we demand an end to the mistreatment and destruction of mother Earth. The land has blood, and it is bleeding; the multinationals have cut the veins of our mother Earth.” Pope Francis joins scientists and activists in raising the alarm, that climate change and deforestation could be causing the Amazon to cross a critical rainforest-tosavanna tipping point, at which time the biome could begin releasing vast sums of stored carbon, pushing the
world toward climate catastrophe. Rapidly escalating deforestation in the Amazon is already threatening the key goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement — keeping the world from overshooting a 1.5 degrees Celsius rise, since the pre-industrial era. The Paris accord specifically cites the carbon-sink-and-sequestration capacity, and the vital importance of large, intact forests as a reliable way, to slow global warming. However, getting to the roots of this issue is not quite straightforward. Pope Francis points to the human roots of this ecological crisis. The quest for development and human mastery over creation, coupled with greed and the free-market economy leaves little scope for environmental considerations. At the same time, industrialisation, urbanisation, inflation and increasing automation have precipitated drastic economic changes. This greed has led to the destruction of forests and their various ecosystems. We need to recapture the beauty of the forest. I urge you to go for a picnic in the forest and enjoy the birds chirping, hear the rustle of the leaves, breathe the pure air and feel the earth with your hands. I am sure you will be rejuvenated and refreshed. At the heart of the Pope’s
reflections is the question: “What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up?” Further, Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, a leading climate change researcher and founding director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, states: “The Asian countries hold Earth’s future in their hands.” We, in India, can draw inspiration from our rich traditions and be stewards of the forest, as we protect our common home and prepare a better future. There is always a need for an ongoing personal conversion, which includes an “ecological conversion” – that can inspire us to greater creativity and enthusiasm, in resolving the world’s problems and in offering ourselves to God “as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable (Rom 12:1). This, then, is our mission – to have courage and go a different ecological way, undeterred by opposing forces, safeguarding our forests, biodiversity– indeed, the entirety of the good creation God has entrusted us to. The writer is an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay. He has taught Human Rights, Social Realities, Conflict Transformation and Ecology at the diocesan seminary for over 38 years. He was appointed the Chairperson of the Commission of Ecology of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India in 2019 .
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SPIRITUALITY
Coming Home to God: Lenten Season in the Philippines
The Lenten season is a great way to return and come home to God’s loving embrace and be mindful of God’s workings in our lives through the sacrifice of his own son Jesus Christ. BY Joel C. Navarez
“Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Joel 2:13)
T
he above Biblical message is a perfect reminder of God’s unwavering love and compassion. COVID-19 is a pandemic that many nations (including the Philippines) have experienced. The Lenten season 28 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
is a great way to return and come home to God’s loving embrace and be mindful of God’s workings in our lives through the sacrifice of his own son Jesus Christ. For every Catholic holiday and special event, the Filipinos find something worth celebrating. The highlight of the Lenten season in the Philippines happens during Holy Week or “Semana Santa”. This is a week of solemn remembrance of Jesus’ passion and suffering prior to his resurrection. Commemoration starts 40 days before the actual week of observance with Ash Wednesday, when people get marked on their
head with ash in form of a cross. During Holy Week, particularly on Good Friday, Filipino Catholics remain at home or go to church to pray and meditate on the crucifixion and death of Christ. This is also this week when the Filipinos, both young and elderly, follow rituals and practices as explained below. Palm Sunday, likewise called Passion Sunday, is the last Sunday of Lent and the beginning of the Holy Week. It is the day when the faithful recollect the triumphant appearance of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem as Saviour and King. In the Philippines, Filipinos visit the
SPIRITUALITY church to go to the Palm Sunday Mass and furthermore have their woven palm fronds or “palaspas” blessed by the priest. Waving palm leaves upon the cleric’s entrance to the congregation is a standard practice and a re-enactment of Jesus’ passage to Jerusalem. During the Mass, the carefully styled palm leaves are blessed by the priest. People usually place it outside their doors, believing it will prevent evil from entering their houses. The Catholic Church practices the ritual of prayer and abstinence on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday as a way of recognizing the sacrifices Christ rendered. In general, people abstain from consuming meat directly or quickly. The Church defines this as “one meal a day, and two smaller meals which if added together would not exceed the main meal in quantity.” Although liquids were never mentioned during the Lenten fast, alcoholic beverages seem to be in contrast to performing penance. Nowadays, some devout Catholics volunteer to give up some of their “guilty pleasures” like smoking, gambling, or even their favourite food as a sign of penance. While some Filipinos and their families prefer going to a vacation, some still choose to participate in this old tradition of “Pabasa ng Pasyon (Reading of the Passion)”. During Holy Week in the Philippines, devout Catholics practice the “Pabasa” by constantly chanting the “Pasyong Mahal,” a 16th-century epic poem narrating the life, passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Pabasa is a ritual that includes chanting or singing instead of just reading the words of Pasyon, a book that recounts the life of Jesus, from birth until His death and resurrection. Participants of the ritual are grouped into two. Each group sings the lines or verse by turn, sometimes in acappella, but nowadays,
Part of the Lenten tradition among Filipino Catholics is to stage a “Senakulo”, a play depicting the life, passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. accompaniment by guitars make the ritual lively and appealing to the younger generation. This religious ritual is usually witnessed by churchgoers during the Holy Thursday Mass, during which the Priest washes the feet of twelve persons to commemorate the washing of feet of the apostles by Jesus during the last supper - as a “sign of humility and being of service to others.” Considered to be one of the most common practices when remembering Christ’s passion, Filipino Catholics visit seven churches or commonly known as “Visita Iglesia” on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. Also called Way of the Cross or Via Crucis, Stations of the Cross is a religious tradition among Catholics, where they pray and meditate in front of each of Jesus Christ’s fourteen images depicting the events of His crucifixion until His resurrection. Furthermore, part of the Lenten tradition among Filipino Catholics is to stage a “Senakulo”, a play depicting the life, passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The dramatization is often held in the mountain area within the town, sometimes just within the church. In some parts of the country, the play is done in the streets where interested tourists could watch. There is also another form of Senakulo where performers in costumes walk in the
streets under the heat of the sun and beat themselves with lashes, as an act of contrition. It ends on Easter Sunday with the re-enactment of Jesus’s resurrection. “Salubong” is another ritual during Holy Week in the Philippines and one of the most common religious traditions in the Philippines. It is usually performed very early in the morning on Easter Sunday, usually at 4 o’clock. The ritual starts with two processions: one side is the group carrying the statue of Mary covered with a black veil as a sign of mourning, and on the opposite side is the group carrying the image of Christ. The two groups will eventually merge in the middle and then an angel, usually played by a young girl (sometimes an image of an angel with a hook in its hands is used), will remove the veil to end Mary’s grieving. In many of the difficulties that the Philippines as a country has gone through, faith in God remains to be a coping mechanism that helps each Filipino survive any major catastrophe. Faith keeps every Filipino hopeful. Faith makes every Filipino bond and unite as a community. Faith is the reason for Filipinos to observe and celebrate Lent. The writer is a Registered Guidance Counselor, Licensed Secondary Teacher, Researcher, and a Mental Health and Youth Development Advocate in the Philippines. He performed school counseling roles for sixteen (16) years. He is currently finishing his dissertation for the degree PhD in Clinical Counseling Psychology from De La Salle University
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SPIRITUALITY
Interconnectedness between Humanity and Earth
by Fr. Santosh Mendonca, SFX
Lectio (Isaiah 44,21-28): The biblical text for our reflection demonstrates the interconnectedness between Humanity and Earth. They are so, because they are the creation of the same God. In Isa 44,21 the Israelites are addressed with two significant imperatives: “remember” and “return (to me),” both of which are interconnected. The former is supported by the redemptive acts of God in the history of Israel, while the latter is supported by the reminder, that God has redeemed them. The Israelites have to remember the things told to them in former times (cf. Isa 44,8; 40,21; 41,4.26) - the experience of the wondrous redemptive acts of YHWH. This experience should behoove the Israelites, to heed the Lord’s ‘personal and intimate’ call demonstrated: first, by his ardent call “return to me” and, second, by his act of redeeming Israel, which also serves as the reason underlying the call. The joy of Israel’s redemption is shared by Earth in Isa 44,23 through a hymnic call to praise. Prophet Isaiah by personifying the constituents of Earth lends them an active voice to share in the lyrical exultation accompanying Israel’s deliverance: “Sing for joy O heavens! …; Shout 30 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
O depths of the earth; break forth O mountains in rejoicing, forest and every tree in it (Isa 44,23; see also Isa 42,10–13; 45,8; 49,13; 52,9–10; 55,12). Singing, shouting, and break forth of Earth in jubilation is not a poetic trick but indicates that Earth, with its intrinsic worth, expresses its joy at the redemption of its kin - humanity. Thus, just as humanity is called upon to respond to the exhortation of Lord, in a similar fashion, Earth is called to raise its voice in jubilation. As the elements of the universe were called on to witness Israel’s rebellion (Isa 1,2), here they are called on to rejoice over Israel’s salvation (see also Isa 55,12–13). The cycle will be complete, when heaven and earth themselves participate in the redemption (Isa 65,17–25; 66,22– 23; see also Rom 8,19–22). Meditatio: “Protect Mother Earth,” “Save the Planet for the future generations,” “Solution Not Pollution” are some of the many powerful slogans that resonate on the streets of our villages, cities, and countries - calling for our urgent attention to the serious consequences that awaits us, if we procrastinate our decisions in our fight against climate change. Earth’s song of jubilation - manifested through the morning chirping of the birds, the soothing touch of the cool breeze traversing through
the now extinct trees, seems to be a thing of the past. Humanity returns, not to savour the simple treasures that Earth has in store for it, but by exploiting Earth to fill the coffers of its greed, selfishness, and attitude of domination. Our text, by its invitation to remember and return, challenges the human race to recognize the interconnectedness that exists between us and Earth: human life depends on Earth but Earth depends on humans. This acknowledgement will result in mutual respect within the Earth Community. Oratio: Lord, may my actions demonstrate my care and protection for Earth - not only because it provides for our sustenance, but also because it is our kin, and it is our sacred duty to protect it for posterity. Actio: The biggest threat to Earth is that someone else will save it. As “Earth Warriors,” let us communicate with our fellow beings, the divinely ordered structure of the Universe and invite them to respect that order for a better life, not just for us, but for future generations. The writer is a member of the Society of Pilar. He is pursuing his Licentiate in Sacred Scriptures at the Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome, Italy.
SPIRITUALITY
St. Patrick- An ideal missionary
BY Scholastic Alok Anup Minj, SFX
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atrick was born into a wealthy family of a RomanBritish official, around 385 AD in Britain. His parents were Calpurnius and Conchessa, Romans living in Britain in charge of the colonies. As a young boy having all privileges, he was far from religion, though he belonged to an orthodox Christian family. At the age of 16, Patrick along with a large number of his father’s slaves was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders. They transported him to Ireland, where he spent six years in captivity. During this time, he was forced to work as a shepherd; outdoors and away from people, he suffered greatly from hunger and cold. During his captivity, he experienced a conversion. Lonely and afraid, he turned to his religion
for solace, becoming a devout Christian with a deep faith in God. He wrote, “the love of God and His fear grew in me more and more, as did the faith, and my soul was roused, so that, in a single day, I have said as many as a hundred prayers and in the night nearly the same. He felt no hurt from the snow or ice or rain, though they were extreme in the land. Patrick’s captivity lasted until he was twenty. He had a dream from God in which he was told to leave Ireland by going to the coast. In doing so, he found some sailors, who took him back to Britain. In this way, he successfully escaped captivity and was reunited with his family. Soon he had another dream, in which the people of Ireland were calling out to him, “We beg you, holy youth, come and walk among us once more. He understood this vision to be a call to do mission work in pagan Ireland. The thrust to preach the Good News to Irish people who had held him captive, grew deep within his heart. He began his studies for the priesthood and was ordained priest in 418 AD. As time passed, he never lost sight of his vision to convert Ireland to Christianity. In 432 AD, he was consecrated as bishop and was soon sent to Ireland, to spread the gospel to non-believers. He spent the rest of his life evangelizing Ireland. He travelled to all corners of Ireland, meeting fierce opposition and resistance. But he usually overcame all his oppositions by miraculous means and managed to spread Christian teachings, far and wide. During his nearly three decades in Ireland, Patrick was successful
in bringing people out of their pagan background and baptized hundreds of thousands of people; converting the whole of Ireland into Christianity. He died in 461 AD in a place called Saul, in Ireland. Because of his tireless work of evangelization in Ireland, he is called “the Apostle of Ireland” and is recognized as the patron saint of Ireland. Many legends have been associated with the life of St. Patrick; one of them was that, in order to end the pagan worship in Ireland, he drove all the snakes out from Ireland, which were the symbols of pagan worship. Patrick was a humble, pious, gentle man, whose love and total devotion to and trust in God should be a shining example for each of us. He feared nothing, not even death; so complete was his trust in God. He inculcated a heart of forgiveness, like that of his master Christ, and forgave all those who held him captive, spending his entire life in their service. One of his great quotes, which we can use for our own reflection or prayer is, “Christ shield me this day, Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ where I lie down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every person who thinks of me, Christ in the eye of that who sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.” The writer is a member of the Society of Pilar. He is a student of First Year Theology, Pilar Theological College, Pilar-Goa.
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PADRE AGNEL
Ven. Fr. Agnelo teaches us to live a life of hope Fr. Agnelo’s faith was profound and unwavering, so also, his hope was strong and unfailing.
by Br. Eusebio Miranda, Sfx
I
n the last issue, we reflected on the deep faith of Ven. Fr. Agnelo; but in just few words, we cannot fathom the depth of his immense faith. He learnt to live a life of faith from his family. He inherited all these divine virtues from his mother and put them into practice throughout his life. He also urged others to abide by such virtues. Today let us discuss another virtue in his life. HOPE. Since Fr. Agnelo’s faith was profound and unwavering, so also, his hope was strong and unfailing. Only a person with such a strong belief can lead a life of such hope, in things that cannot be seen. Fr. Agnelo was a man of such great hope. Many people, who knew him closely, have given testimony about this. The life of a person who has lost hope becomes meaningless and he lives in utter despair. When any of our beloved one departs from this world, we feel lost and have no hope of ever meeting that person again. This thought plunges us into deep despair. But it is only our deep faith that assures us, that one day we shall reunite with our departed one. And this belief gives us a great sense of inner peace. Fr. Agnelo lost 32 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
The life of a person who has lost hope becomes meaningless and he lives in utter despair. his parents at a very tender age. But as he was a person of strong faith, he could endure this heavy loss. We should remember one thing – at the time of our Baptism, Our Heavenly Father with His Mercy and Compassion has sown the seeds of Faith and Hope in each one of us. We have always seen this quality of hope in Fr. Agnelo which he also stressed in his teachings. According to the priests of his times, he has even emphasized on it in his book. “Rejoice in the Lord and He shall fulfil the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 36) In whom shall my soul rejoice? In all my needs and anxieties, like for my good health and healing, for a good job and other needs of life, I should place my faith and hope on God alone, as Fr. Agnelo did in his life. Whatever favours we receive, God alone grants them to us. Then what does Fr. Agnelo do? Fr. Agnelo gives us the inspiration and paves the way for us to lead a life of faith and hope. Whatever petitions we put forth are answered by God through the intercession of Fr. Agnelo. Let us fully trust God. Let us not stop praying, because God has not paid heed to our prayers today. If God is
willing, He will answer our prayers in His Own Time. Believing in this, is HOPE. The writer is a member of the Society of Pilar. He is the Editor of Vauradeancho Ixtt, a weekly Konkani Newspaper, Pilar-Goa.
PADRE AGNEL
Venerable Agnelo
Our great intercessor before God
Agnelo and pray that he may soon attain sainthood.
Maria Rodrigues (Shiroda): I was suffering from a terrible toothache and had no relief in spite of doctor’s treatment. I was feeling utterly miserable and helpless. At this hour of despair, I fervently prayed through the intercession of Ven. Fr. Agnelo. And it was a real miracle! God gave heed to my prayers and I was relieved from my excruciating pain. I express my deep gratitude to God and Ven. Fr. Agnelo and pray for his early sainthood.
Sabina Souza (Quelossim): As we did not have a child even after nine years of marriage, we were upset and felt very desolate. Doctors had told me that I would not conceive as both my fallopian tubes were blocked. These were the moments of great despair. But we did not lose our faith and prayed ardently through the intercession of Ven. Fr. Agnelo. God gave heed to our prayers and we were blessed with a baby boy. I profusely thank Ven. Fr. Agnelo and pray for his early sainthood.
Avina Cardozo (Shiroda): I had a small tumor on my left leg. A surgery was performed but in spite of that, the tumor reappeared after sometime. I was extremely worried. But with great devotion, I asked Ven. Fr. Agnelo to intercede. I placed his holy picture upon my leg and also applied his relic mud. Doctors had lost all hope but I did not give up my faith and continuously prayed through the intercession of Ven. Fr. Agnelo. A second surgery was performed and doctors assured me of complete recovery. I am grateful to God and to Fr. Agnelo for granting me this healing. And I also pray that all others who suffer from similar sickness may experience His healing touch. I pray that Fr. Agnelo may soon attain sainthood. Caetano Fernandes (Merces): My daughter was not keeping well.
She was suffering from breathing problem. We consulted several doctors but to no avail. I did not know where to place my feet and pin my hopes. At this time, we put forth our petitions before many saints. Finally she was healed through the intercession of Ven. Fr. Agnelo. We are grateful to all the saints. We also profusely thank Fr. Agnelo and pray for his early sainthood. Aninha D’Souza (Taleigao): I live in U.K. Suddenly my blood sugar and cholesterol shot up and I was quite bad. I wanted to return to Goa. At this crucial moment, I relentlessly prayed to Ven. Fr. Agnelo. And what a miracle I experienced! The medicines that the doctor had prescribed started working on me and slowly my health started improving. Now I am much better. I profoundly thank Ven. Fr. Agnelo and pray for his sainthood. Alex Fernandes (Benaulim): The count of white blood cells of my six month old baby boy was low. We were very distraught. At this time of distress, with sorrowful heart I earnestly prayed through the intercession of Ven. Fr. Agnelo and gave him to drink water with his relic mud. And indeed it was a miracle! Now he is steadily recovering. I sincerely thank Fr.
Translation credit: Golda Gracias Prayer to obtain favours through Ven. Fr. Agnelo
Almighty God, Our Heavenly Father, we gratefully acknowledge your plan for our salvation, even by working miracles through your chosen servant. We thank you for giving us your faithful servant, Fr. Agnelo, as an example of how to follow in the steps of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. With our whole heart, we pray that you may lead us through your Spirit to imitate his saintly life. Grant us also the favour we ask (mention the favour) as a sign that he now shares in the glory of our Risen Lord.
Prayer for the Canonization of Ven. Fr. Agnelo
O God of infinite mercy, we humbly prostrate at Your feet, we beg of You, with whole hearted trust, that if it be Your Holy Will, and if it serves our salvation, grant Fr. Agnelo the honours of the Altar through the solemn declaration of Our Provident Mother, the Church. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. Miraculous favours obtained through his intercession may kindly be reported to: Vice-Postulator, Cause of Fr. Agnelo, Pilar Monastery, Pilar, Goa - India. 403 203 Mob.: 9322038791 Email: vpagnel@rediffmail.com
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PILAR NEWS
Pilar Divya Sanchar Recording Studio Launched
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n the occasion of the 72nd Republic Day of India Pilar Divya Sanchar recording studio was Launched at the hands of Mr. Shamiro Deniz, Technical and Creative Head of CCR TV. Rev. Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, the Vicar General of the Society of Pilar, led the rite of blessing of the studio. On the 26th of September 2020, Pilar Media, launched its YouTube channel ‘Pilar Divya Sanchar’
and in the course of time set up a modest recording studio, to get going professionally. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Shamiro Deniz applauded the Society of Pilar, for venturing into electronic media and said although all things start small, the goal in mind should be great. He said that a bonfire always starts with lighting a matchstick and today a matchstick has been lit. It’s the duty
of every member of the Society to keep the flame burning and not to allow it to die with the elements of nature. He said that he is hoping that Pilar Divya Sanchar also grows in size and becomes one of the premiere channels. Miss Antara Bhide, a special invitee, said that India is a land of diverse religions, cultures and traditions. Through the electronic media, we have to endeavour to build peaceful and harmonious communities. During the programme the Seminarians from the All India Mission Seminary sang a soulful patriotic song and evoked patriotic feelings in the people gathered. The programme was hosted by Fr. Russel Fernandes. Fr. Mark Furtado welcomed the gathering and Fr. Elvis Fernandes, the convenor of Pilar Media, thanked everyone associated with the setting up of the recording studio.
Root Cause of Hopelessness is the absence of God - Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas
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he Pilar Theological College organized its annual Theological symposium on the theme “Witnesses of Hope” on the 6th of February 2021 in the auditorium of the Pilar Seminary. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, the auxiliary Bishop of Ranchi, moderated the session. Speaking on the occasion he said, that the very root cause of hopelessness is the absence of God in our life and, therefore, if we want to be witnesses of hope, we need to build a relationship with God. He applauded the speakers who dwelt on various dimensions of the topic. Scholastic Rolson D’souza presented a paper titled ‘The Road to Emmaus: A Tale of Witnessing Hope’ ; Scholastic Rohan D’souza spoke on ‘Mary, as Mother of Hope’; Scholastic Lelwin Pereira spoke on the ‘The Significance 34 | Fr. Agnel’s Call | March 2021
of Witnesses and its reference in the Book of Apocalypse’; and Scholastic Christopher Joseph spoke on ‘Being Witnesses of Hope to the Dying’. The Symposium was well organized under the guidance
of Rev. Fr. Reagan Fernandes, the Dean of the Pilar Theological College. Scholastic Salten Monteiro welcomed the gathering and Scholastic Venito Colaco proposed the vote of thanks.