EDITORIAL
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n the human history as described in the Holy Writ, the Book of Genesis, two important persons we take note of are Cain and Abel, the two sons of our first parents, Adam and Eve. Cain was a tiller of the ground whereas Abel was a keeper of sheep. Apart from being just two individuals, they are two symbols that represent the entire humanity and two options that man could choose from. By listening to the hollow words of the vile serpent Adam and Eve proved recalcitrant and disobedient to God thereby abdicating their claim to live in the Paradise. Cain and Abel were the sons of these exiled parents and they got an opportunity to show their interest and attitude to God. It was a time to make offerings to God to please him. Both of them built altars. The offering of Cain was not acceptable to God. But God was pleased with Abel and his offering. Abel had brought of the firstlings of his flock, their fat portions. We are told that Cain’s offering was rejected by God and so his countenance fell. God asks Cain, Why are you angry and why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? (Gen 4:6-7). Sin was lurking at Cain’s door and that was why his offering was rejected. Cain and Abel represent two contrasting attitudes of man towards God. The offering is accepted or rejected by God based on the attitude of the one who offers it. Every person seems to have two kinds of mentality or conscience, if you prefer. One is the Cain conscience which nurtures lustful and lascivious desires and selfishness. The other is the Abel conscience that is spiritual and heaven-ward looking. In all the decisions we take, in all the attitudes we maintain, we can detect these dichotomous aspects of our conscience - one of Cain and the other of Abel. In almost all the persons referred to in the Holy Writ, we can see the battle between these two aspects. A very good example is found in the rich young man who approaches Jesus with the desire to follow him and May 2014
attain eternal life (Mt 19:16-22). It was the Abel conscience in him that engendered in him the desire to follow Jesus, to attain eternal life and the ways to attain it. Jesus understood the youth’s desire and told him the means. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments (Mt 19:17). He keeps the commandments meticulously. That means in him the Abel conscience has the sway. He wanted to further know his shortcomings and so he asks, “What do I still lack?” Jesus then told him, If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me (Mt 19:21). The moment the Abel conscience awoke in him promoting him to relinquish his possessions which were an impediment on his way to eternal life, the Cain conscience roused itself and acted. Suddenly his desire to continue with his possessions gained the upper hand, creating in him a serious dislike to give them up. As the Cain conscience was persuading him to give up God to retain his worldly possessions, the Abel conscience in him was prompting him to follow Jesus giving priority to spiritual things. In the raging battle between the Cain conscience and Abel conscience, the former became victorious, and the latter was brutally slain. The Bible says that the rich young man in the incident, Mt. 19:16-22, went away grieving, for he had many possessions. Whenever we are at the crossroads of life, where we have to make choices, take decisions and develop attitudes, the Cain and Abel attitudes make waves in, and counter claims from us. At such junctures, if the spiritual man has to gain the upper hand the Abel in us should be fortified and the Cain in us should be ruthlessly suppressed. Let us nurture the good being in us through prayers, pious acts, works of charity, patience and forgiveness. When we find no time to fortify ourselves with a spiritual life, the Cain in us will gain strength and the upper hand, leading us headlong into doom and damnation.
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God (Ps. 42:1).
Fr Zacharias Edattu V.C. Vachanolsavam 3
LETTER TO EDITOR
OBEDIENCE, A SPECIAL VIRTUE
MARY I feel that the article under the caption ‘Mary’ by Fr Dr Antony Plackal, appearing in the February 2014 Issue of Vachanolsavam is a befitting interpretation of Mt 13:53-56. When Jesus began to teach the people in their synagogue, they were astounded and they wondered, “Where did this man get his wisdom and these words of power? Is this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?” All these questions are adequately answered by the author as he depicts Mary as the noblest among women, as the one who had been especially anointed by the Holy Spirit to be the mother of Jesus. I would like to thank Fr Dr Antony Plackal for clarifying things for the readers all over the world. T.V. George, Bhopal
The article entitled ‘Obedience, a Special Virtue’ by P.J. Joseph is highly relevant to the contemporary society. The root cause of all our troubles and tribulations and lack of peace is lack of obedience and humility. If we are humble, we will be disciplined, loyal and obedient to God. The laws are made for the good of all. When we breach them, they strike back. The article teaches us to be obedient and loyal to the laws in our homes, in schools and in the society at large. If we are obedient and loyal to the laws, there will be peace and rest in our hearts. Augustine, Chengamanad
THE ROSARY MYSTERIES The article with the above title by Sujala Grace Maria appearing in the January 2014 Issue made fine reading. This article helps people who don’t know much about Mary to grow in piety to her and pray to her by reciting the Rosary. The Rosary is the Bible of the blind and the illiterate. I feel grateful to the author who convinced the readers that by praying to Mary they can get various blessings from Jesus through the intercession of the Holy Mother.
Sheena, Aluva We receive many articles each month and some of them may not , naturally, be published. To get back the unpublished articles, please send sufficiently-stamped and self-addressed envelopes. In the articles due prominence should be given to the Word. The articles sent for publication in Vachanolsavam should not have been published elsewhere. Similarly, articles published in Vachanolsavam should not be sent for publication elsewhere. Editor
WHEN SENDING TESTIMONIES, PLEASE NOTE:
You should not be reluctant to send your testimonies to us if you are certain that some healing has been granted to you by the Lord. Every month we get many testimonies and so, it will not be possible to publish all of them at once. We will try to publish as many testimonies as possible so that others may benefit from your experience of healing. When you send your testimony please note the following: 1. With the testimony, send the full address and the phone number of the person receiving the healing/blessing. A copy of his/her photograph should accompany the testimony. 2. Send your testimony only 3 months after you have received the healing. 3. Along with the testimony you must send a certificate from the doctor who treated you or from your parish priest. 4. If you are a missionary (free distributor) of Vachanolsavam please mention it in your testimony. 5. Publishing your testimonies is done as part of the spiritual services of Vachanolsavam. We do not accept any fee to publish the testimonies. However, if you want to express your gratitude, please get some copies of Vachanolsavam and distribute them free to the needy every month. Or you may send part of your tithes for the Evangelization Mission of Vachanolsavam. Send your testimonies to the following address: Editor, Vachanolsavam, Potta - 680722, Thrissur Dt.,Kerala
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Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Ps 37:4).
May 2014
MAY 2014
VOL -7 / ISSUE 12 / 5.00
VACHANOLSAVAM
Spiritual Director Fr. Mathew Naickomparambil Chief Editor
Fr Dr Jojo Marippattu Managing Editor
Fr. Varghese Chackumkuzhy Editor
Fr Zacharias Edattu Manager
Fr Georgekutty Thyanattuveli
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7 THE APPEARANCES OF THE RISEN LORD
Circulation Manager
WAS THE PASSION OF CHRIST ONLY FOR A FEW HOURS?
Fr George Panackal Assistant Editor
Prof. Joseph Madappally English Translation
Prof. M.A. Job
CONTENT
Editorial Board Fr Dr Paul Kariamadam Fr Dr Augustine Padinjarekutt Fr Dr John F. Cheriyavely Fr. Dr. Sebastine Thundathikunnel Fr. Michael Kareekkunnel Fr. Paul Parekkattil Fr. Antony Thachethukudy
Address: VACHANOLSAVAM, Potta - 680 722, Chalakudy, Thrissur Dt., Kerala, India. Phone:
9447696622, 9496862640 0480-2708314, 2706983
Please contact the office during working hours for any matter related to the Vachanolsavam Magazine. Office time : (9 am - 12.30 pm & 1.45 pm- 4.45pm) Email: managervachanolsavam@gmail.com editorvachanolsavam@gmail.com Website:www.vachanolsavam.org May 2014
THE APPEARANCES OF THE RISEN LORD Fr Dr Augustine Padinjarekutt V.C. WAS THE PASSION OF CHRIST ONLY FOR A FEW HOURS? Dr Siby Mathews
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JESUS IS THE SOLUTION TO ALL YOUR PROBLEMS Br Raphael Kokkadan
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DID CAIN MARRY HIS OWN SISTER? Fr Dr Joseph Thondiparambil
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WORSHIP – IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH Benny Thomas
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A WORKER WHO MADE HIS WORK WORSHIP Prof Joseph Madappally
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STREAMS OF DIVINE BLESSINGS Dr Reju Varghese Kalleli
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CHILDREN’S CORNER
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CALL NO ONE YOUR FATHER ON EARTH Fr Dr John F. Cheriavely V.C.
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Those who bring thanksgiving as their sacrifice honour me; to those who go the right way (Ps 50:23).
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Vachanolsavam 5
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps 46:1). JESUS WHO HEALS
URINARY PROBLEM SOLVED
Since 2000, I had been suffering from severe knee pain. In spite of different treatments, the problem persisted. Finally, as per the suggestion of the doctor, a surgery was done replacing the knee cap. But that did not help, either. I then sought the intercession of Mother Mary. I prayed sincerely to Jesus, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. Soon my pain went away. Nowadays I don’t have any knee pain. Thank you, Jesus!
I found difficulty in passing urine and so I consulted a doctor. A scan and blood test were done. The doctor suspected malignancy in my prostate gland. Samples were sent for biopsy. All this time we were praying tearfully to the Lord, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam, on everything going well. The biopsy report showed no indication of any malignancy. Thank you, Jesus!
Sr Thresia Manjooran, S.Ch.S.A. Nandipulam
Mani T.O., Pala
MEMORY COMES BACK KIDNEY STONE GOES AWAY As I prayed with faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, the stone in my kidney melted away. Thank you, Jesus! Laly Thomas, Kattappana
“Praise the Lord! O give thanks to the Lord for he is good” (Ps 106:1).
My husband had a severe headache, causing a rupture in the vein in his head. As a result, his one side was paralyzed and he lost his memory power. I prayed to the Lord tearfully, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. Slowly his paralyzed side began to show signs of movement and he got his memory back. Thank you, Jesus! Ushakumari, Kottayam
SOLACING JESUS INFECTION IN THE BRAIN GOES AWAY My husband had been having stones in both his kidneys. Treatments were given. But the size and the number of the stones were going on increasing. The latest scan showed that the function of the kidneys was getting less efficient. In this state we prayed tearfully to the Lord for a solution to his problem. We pledged our testimony in Vachanolsavam. Our prayers proved fruitful. In the next scan report, the kidneys were found to be functioning normally. Thank you, Jesus! Akkamma Phillip, Changanassery
My mother had infection in her brain and her left side was paralyzed. She spent a whole month in the ICU and often she was attached to the ventilator. The doctor thought her recovery was well-nigh impossible and therefore asked us to take her home. I am a reader of Vachanolsavam. The testimonies there have always impressed me. I also prayed tearfully to Jesus, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. My mother was miraculously healed. Now she is going to work. Srilakshmi, Kaduthuruthy
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Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Ps 37:4).
May 2014
Fr Dr Augustine Padinjarekutt V.C.
A
fter his resurrection from the dead, the risen Lord appeared to his disciples a number of times. In Acts 1:3 we read: “After his suffering he presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.” Jesus did not appear to his apostles not merely to teach them and convince them that he was still alive. He appeared to them to convince us that he would be always with us and he would never abandon us, leaving us as orphans, and that way to comfort and strengthen us. GOD WITH US During the period of the Messiah, the people of the Old Testament believed that God would always be with us. In the Book of Prophet Isaiah, God is called by the name ‘Emmanuel’ (Is 7:14). Not only that, as per the relations emanating from the Covenant between God and the humankind, there was the expectation by people that God would dwell with them till the end of age. It was this expectation that was fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus. He is now living with his people. This matter
May 2014
has been told by Apostle John in his Book of Revelations: See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them as their God; they will be his peoples (Rev 21:3). PRESENCE OF GOD THROUGH JESUS Lord Jesus called the Apostles to be with him (Mk 3:13-15). The training he gave them for three years was to enable them to live with God. Although their dwelling with Jesus had many boundaries and limitations, they had a much-abundant love-relation with him. When they lost that love and friendship when Jesus died, they were desperate thinking that all was lost. THE NEW PRESENCE But the risen Lord who entered the glory of the Father did not forget his dear disciples. The very afternoon of his resurrection, he appears to them. The Lord who is faithful in his promises, the Lord who promised not to abandon them as orphans, runs to his disciples to fulfil his pledge. No more will he go away from them. That is what the appearances imply. There are some special features to his appearances.
Those who bring thanksgiving as their sacrifice honour me; to those who go the right way (Ps 50:23).
Vachanolsavam 7
1. A DAILY VISITOR Jesus had a habit that he practised during his ministry of earth. He used to visit villages and towns and go to the homes of his apostles, friends and those who invited him. The risen Lord continues with that habit even now. He has not given up that habit. When he was alive on earth it was possible for him only to move about in Palestine as he was limited to the bounds of space and time. But through granting resurrection the Father has freed Jesus from all kinds limitations imposed by terrain, time and clime. Therefore he can reach anybody, anywhere, any time. It is possible for him to reach our homes, our villages, our towns wherever in the five continents we might be. He is always with us. 2. THE INITIATOR One specialty of the appearances of Jesus is that he comes with his own initiative. He does not come because of the deep faith of his disciples nor because of their anxious waiting. He comes on his own taking the decision to come himself. The fact of the matter is that even when he came people could not recognize him and therefore he had to tell them who he was. Mary Magdalene, who loved him dearly, and the disciples on their way to Emmaus did not recognize him. When he revealed himself, they recognized him. Earlier when the Lord selected the apostles he told them, You did not choose me but I chose you (Jn 15:16). Even today he is doing precisely that telling them that they are not choosing him but he is choosing them. His appearances, therefore, are the second invitation to them to be with him. Through his appearances, Jesus is giving the disciples his presence and friendship once again. 3. UNPREDICTABLE APPEARANCES There was yet another specialty to his appearances. Nobody could predict them. Nobody could foretell when, where or how he would appear or where he was at a given moment. He came most unexpectedly and disappeared like lightning. But when we study about his appearances one thing stands out very clearly. He comes to the disciples when they are in need. He has not forgotten that habit even now. He came rushing to comfort 8 Vachanolsavam
Mary Magdalene who was shedding bitter tears of pain, to flame the desperate hearts of the disciples going to Emmaus and to call them back, and to reward the disciples whose boats were utterly empty in spite of their night long endeavours to catch fish. This is the message the appearances of the Risen Lord gives us: He will be with us at the time of our need. He will come to us even without being called. 4. ONLY TO FRIENDS The Risen Lord did not appear to just anybody; he appeared only to his friends and disciples. Apostle Peter makes this very clear: God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead (Acts 10:40-41). In the view of the Bible the Risen Lord first appeared to Mary Magdalene who loved him most and who sought him with greater zeal and intensity. Friendships are a precondition for appearances. We know from the current experiences that such appearances do happen to those who love the Lord zealously and enthusiastically. It is to be specially mentioned that the Risen Lord never appeared to any of his adversaries. He did not appear to people like Judas, Pilate, the Chief Priests, the Centurion or the soldiers who teased and tormented him. He did not appear to them to point out their mistakes, to laugh at their folly in trying to silence him forever, and to register his protest against them. The Risen Lord does not nurture any hatred or vengeance to anyone. However it is obvious that who deny him and reject him will not be blessed with his appearances. 5. NOTHING STRANGE Another speciality of the appearances of the Risen Lord is their lack of any strangeness in them. His coming was not accompanied by any special miracles or signs (Lk 17:20). When he appeared to Apostle Paul, he fell off the horse and his eyes were blinded by the dazzling, divine light. But during the appearances of the Risen Lord no such supernatural things happened. When he
Fools say in their hearts, `There is no God' (Ps. 14:1).
May 2014
appeared to the disciples they were all engaged in their routine activities and were not even thinking about him. He appeared to them and soon he vanished without any forewarning. His constant comings and goings were to etch in the minds of the disciples that he was always with them. He has given us the assurance that he will be with us to the end of age. In the Book Revelation we read, Then I turned to see whose voice it was that spoke to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands I saw one like the Son of Man, clothed with a long robe and with golden sash across his chest (1:12-13). These seven lampstands are the seven Churches. The one who stands amidst them like the Son of Man is the Risen Lord. It means all the Churches are filled with him as he is enveloping all of them. So we just be discreet enough to recognize the presence of the Lord with us. LIVE IN THE PRESENCE OF THE RISEN LORD Often we do not have the awareness that the Risen Lord is with us. Most of us erroneously think that he ascended into the heaven leaving us alone on this earth to fend for ourselves. We live in the hope of meeting him when he comes to us the second time. This is a misconception that we have about the Resurrection of
Jesus. We think that Jesus ascended into heaven means he has gone from this world to another world; there has been a change of place. But we should not view the Resurrection this way. We should understand it in the sense as shown in Lk 24:51, “he withdrew from them”. The Risen Lord entered into his divine life. That life we can’t see with our eyes. That is why we say ‘he withdrew from our eyes’. Because he has withdrawn from us, it does not mean he has distanced himself from us. Although he is invisible he is very actively present with us. We read that Jesus entered the room where the disciples were huddled together, the door firmly shut, because of their fear of the Jews. Those disciples and most of us tend to think that the Lord miraculously burst into that room from where he was absent. This thinking is not right. He was always with them in that very room. But since he had not revealed himself to them, they had not recognized him. Even as he was revealing himself to them, and, even before that, he was with them. Jesus appeared to the disciples and disappeared from them often for 40 days just to make them aware that he was, is, and will be with them all the time. With those appearances they became aware of the eternal presence of the Lord with them. They got the blessing of faith beyond vision. Let the Risen Lord bless us with such a faith.
PRAYER BRINGS HEALING For two years I had been suffering from frequent bouts of giddiness. I felt my head spinning when I was in places where there were loud noises. Even while participating in the Holy Eucharist, I used to keep some ear plug to prevent any loud noise from entering my ears. At this time, I took part in a retreat in the Divine Retreat Centre Muringoor. I prayed with sincere faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. My prayers were heard by the good Lord and I was healed. Thank you Jesus! Mrs. Reetha David, Arisipalayam
I had tried twice for an Immigration Visa to Britain. But both the times the Visa was refused to me. Then I sought divine help. I prayed with faith pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. The third time I got it. Thank you Jesus! Mrs. Maria Susan Deepa, Alagapuram
May 2014
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps 139:14)
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There’s Much in a Name!
kam[m\w Fr Dr Antony Plackal V.C.
PEACE The word peace is copiously used both in the Old and the New Testament. In the Old Testament the Hebrew word ‘Shalom’ is used whereas in the New Testament the Greek word “Eirene’ is used. In the Hebrew language people greet one another using ‘Shalom’. When they greet using this word they lift up the thumb, pointing finger and the middle finger of the right hand reflecting the letter ‘Sheen’ in Hebrew. It is just like the Indians greeting people by saying ‘Namaste’, folding their hands. In Gen 43:23, Joseph used the word Shalom to greet his brothers. In Exo 18:7, Moses greets his father-in-law Jethro by saying Shalom as he prostates before him and kisses him. In the New Testament St. Paul uses ‘Eirene’ many times as greeting (Rom 1:7; 1 Cor 1:3; 2 Cor 1:2; Gal 1:3; Eph 1:2; Phil !:2; Col 1:2; 1 Thess 1:1. 2 Thess 1:2, 1 Tim 1:2, 2 Tim 1:2; Titos 1:4, Philemon verse 3). When bidding farewell also, St. Paul uses this word (Rom 16:20; 1 Cor 13:11; Gal 6:16; Eph 6:23; Phil 4:7; 1 Thess 5:23; 2 Thess 3:16). Apart from being words of greeting, Shalom and Eirene have other meanings also. They also mean peace, prosperity, perfection and well-being. The Arabic word ‘Salam’ and the Syriac word ‘Slama’ have the same meaning. The Bible attributes a greater meaning to these
HUNCHBACK STRAIGHTENS WITHOUT ANY SURGERY My daughter Shahana had a hunchback and the doctor recommended an expensive surgery, costing more than Rs. 3½ lakh. We then prayed tearfully to Jesus, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. The good Lord healed her and her spine is now straight. Thank you, Jesus!
words than mere peace. At the birth of Jesus a heavenly host praising God chanted: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours” (Lk 2:14). The peace that we get when we attain the grace of God is superior and greater than other states of peace. The presence of God in good people makes the peace perfect. God is the King of Peace (Is 9:6). On the throne of David and in his kingdom his authority is without limits; his peace infinite (Is 9:7). This was the prayer that the Lord gave Moses to teach Aaron and his sons so that the Israelites could obtain blessings: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace” (Num 6:24-26). Jesus does not give us peace as the world gives it (Jn 14:27). The peace he gives along with his grace removes the fear and restlessness of our hearts. That is why St. Paul often greets people with peace combined with the grace of God (Rom 1:7; 1 Cor 1:3). Let us pray so that there is always peace along with grace between God and man and mutually among men. Amen!
PARALYZED HAND REGAINS STRENGTH At the time of his birth, the right hand of my son was in a paralyzed state because of a strain on a blood vessel in the neck. If you lifted his hand and left it unsupported it would fall down. We went to Potta Ashram and tearfully prayed to the Lord for a cure for the problem of our son. We pledged our testimony in Vachanolsavam. As a result, his hand became normal. Thank you, Jesus! Suma Joby, Angamaly
Haseena Shahil, Koodapuzha
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The greedy person stirs up strife, but whoever trusts in the Lord will be enriched (Prov. 28:25).
May 2014
T
he passion and cruci fixion of Christ, the Incarnated Son of God, has been a theme of constant Dr Siby Mathews contemplation for Christians. During the Lent, this acquires a special significance and it is specially remembered. It would be quite relevant to re-think about the passion and suffering of Christ after the Lent. In the churches and other centres of prayer during Fridays of the Lent the pious act of ‘The Way of the Cross’ is followed. In the Catholic churches the crucifix is placed on the main altar. Almost on a daily basis, through the Rosary of Divine Mercy and the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary of St. Mary, the suffering of Jesus on his way of Calvary is repeatedly reminisced. Even as we acknowledge them to be highly meaningful and significant, the fact of the matter is that the full picture of the May 2014
suffering of Jesus is not entirely revealed through them. Was the passion and suffering of Jesus limited to the few hours from the Garden of Gethsemane to the hill of Calvary? Definitely not. It all started with the Incarnation itself. The statement that Christ Jesus ...emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness (Phil 2:6-8) shows that Jesus had accepted a life of suffering right at the beginning of Incarnation. Even as we proclaim in our Creed that the Word was with God and all things came into being through him (Jn 1:1-3), we often can’t imagine the mystery of Incarnation and how low the Son of God had to descend. Right from his birth, Jesus, the Incarnated Son of God, had to face indifference, rejection and poverty. Since he was not born in a rich noble family, he had to suffer mockery from the Scribes and Pharisees. He met with
The Lord is the true God; he is the living God and the everlasting King (Jer 10:10).
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indifference in his own place. His own people pejoratively called him demoniac, madman, blasphemer, man with mental imbalance and such other derogatory epithets. Jesus lamented over Jerusalem because of the way in which his teachings were rejected by the inhabitants there (Lk 13:31-35). He, with heartfelt pain, warned the unrepentant cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida (Lk 10:13-16). In many cities, towns and villages the Proclamation Team consisting of Jesus and his Apostles had to suffer indifference, mockery, jeer, hatred and rejection. Often the members of the team had to spend their nights in the open, suffering hunger, thirst and cold. During his life on earth Jesus was aptly called the Man of Sorrows. Even the Apostles who accompanied Jesus for three years and taught by him were not able to grasp the mysteries of things like Incarnation, Crucifixion, and the Kingdom-to-come. Even they thought of Jesus as a hero who had come to save the Jews from the authority of Rome. That is why the sons of Zebedee, James and John, demanded to be seated on the right and left of Jesus in his glory (Mk 10:35). The knowledge that Judas whom he himself had chosen as one of his Twelve Apostles would betray him constantly pricked him. Even the presence of Judas, his lust and lasciviousness, his deceit, his double-crossing mind and his pride constantly pinched him. Still, Jesus, the acme of love, did not dismiss him from the group of his apostles, always giving him opportunities to show remorse and repentance. He continued this process until the Last Supper. In spite of all what Jesus did, he could not make Judas turn away from his nefarious intentions promoted by avarice. Here we see even God accepting defeat before man swollen by arrogant conceit and vile wiles! This helplessness had given Jesus excruciating pain. After being arrested by the chief priest and elders of the people, Jesus was quite lonely. A few days ago Jesus was received by the townspeople with shouts of ‘King and Saviour’ waving palm fronds. But today he was bound like a criminal and was being led to the palace of Herod and the court of Pilate with a jeering and mocking crowd hooting and howling and insulting him. Not a single soul came forward to tell ‘no’ to the tor12 Vachanolsavam
mentors of Jesus or to comfort him with a solacing word. It was a time when the dark powers of evil had gained sway. Even the main Apostle Peter chose to deny Jesus, not just once, but three times. How much must have the tender heart of Jesus grieved at this callous denial! On his way to Calvary, carrying the cross, only his mother and a few pious women accompanied him. His face was disfigured by spit, mud and blood and only a Gentile woman, Veronica had the guts and gumption to come forward through the hostile soldiers to wipe the holy face of Jesus. Even as he was convulsing with excruciating pain on the cross, Jesus must have foreseen the suffering the Church and the faithful were to undergo in the centuries to come and his pain must have been more tormenting to him than his physical distress. He must have seen in his prophetic eyes the onslaughts of the vices on the world, the global wars, the genocides and pogroms and the horrendous tragedies what would engulf the world and the people (Mt 24:3-12). God so loved the world that he became man. To release mankind from the bondage of Sin and Satan, he suffered so much and gave up his life. Still he could foresee the bitter truth of crores of people rejecting him and faith loosening its grip on the people as centuries roll by. That distressing thought also might have weakened him. It must be from these distressing thoughts and the consequent exhaustion that he was prompted to say, “I am thirsty”. We have heard about many saints who used to look at the crucifix and pray for hours contemplating the passion and death of Jesus. Padre Pio of the 20th century and St. Faustina were such people. As we bend our knees before the crucifix, let us also contemplate the excruciating pain Jesus suffered as he died for us on the cross.
CURED OF VITILIGO My daughter had smooth white patches of vitiligo on her neck. We prayed with earnest faith for a cure, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. The good Lord gave her a cure. Thank you, Jesus.
Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out ( Acts 3:19).
Sheeba Reji, Calicut
May 2014
Br Raphael Kokkadan God made human beings straightforward, but they have devised many schemes (Eccl 7:29). Most of us live amidst complex problems that stare us on the face. Some people simply blame others for their misfortunes and go on living cursing them all the time. Some blame their fate, resigning themselves to its inexorability, thinking nothing can release them from their predicament. Some others see their problems as part of their life, consoling themselves with a shrug of their shoulders, saying “Isn’t it life? Life will have problems.” They think that there are problems in everybody’s life and so the best way is to pull on with their lives as given to them. Some others stand aghast at the vexing problems not knowing what to do, letting the days go by. Some others find their temporary solutions in alcohol and psychedelic drugs. Yet others seek a permanent solution in suicides. But there are solutions to all our problems. The best and permanent solution for all our
May 2014
complex problems is Jesus Christ. The angel said to them: ‘Don’t be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord (Lk 2:10-11). Only Jesus can rescue us from all our problems. He is the Saviour of all the people. There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Jesus says, Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest (Mt 11:28). This is the exhortation that Jesus gives to all the people perturbed and perplexed by problems galore, “Come to me and I will give you rest”. Here are some solutions to the problems vexing people: 1. Believe in Jesus 1 Pet 3:15 says, Do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. This must be your faith. Remove all other persons and deities from your heart and place Jesus there, because Jesus is the
Shun youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart (2 Tim 2:22 ).
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only Saviour. Only in him there is salvation.Jn 3:16-17 has this to say: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” God the Father has given his only begotten Son for our salvation. Whoever is saved will be saved through Jesus. Jesus said, “I am
way for Jesus and then he will come into our life and give solutions to our problems. Sanctify yourselves; for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you (Joshua 3:5). When we sanctify ourselves from sin, our hearts will be filled with the salvation, peace and joy that the Lord gives. WAYS OF SANCTIFICATION 1. FORGIVE, AND SEEK FORGIVENESS
If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also When we listen to the Word forgive you; but if you do not forgive and hymns and read them others, neither will your Father forand study them some purify- give you your trespasses (Mt 6:14-15). ing process takes place in Forgiving is an area where the sanctifyour heart even without our ing process should take place in being aware of it. The proeverybody’s life. The hearts of those who clivity to sin gets obliterated nurture hatred and vengeance are not in the hearts of people who clean. Jesus says, Whatever you ask receive the Word. for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. the way, truth and life. No one comes to the Father Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in except through me” (Jn 14:6). heaven may also forgive you your trespasses (Mk In Acts 2:36 we read thus. In his first speech, Peter, 11:24-25). By the word ‘forgive’ Jesus means that we filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaimed in a loud voice: should love our enemies and pray for those who perse“Let the entire house of Israel know with certainty cute us (Mt 5:44). It is not enough to forgive your enthat God has made him both Lord and Messiah, emies but go a step ahead and love them. God is love! this Jesus who you crucified.” All those who heard In Mt 5:24 we are asked to get reconciled to our the proclamation were cut to the heart and asked Peter what they should do. Peter told them, “Re- brothers. Another aspect of forgiving is asking for forpent, and be baptized every one of you in the name giveness. Just like there are people around us who have of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven, trespassed against us we might have trespassed against and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts some people also. They may nurture hatred and ven3:38). On another occasion, one jailor asked Paul and geance towards us. That is why Jesus says, When you Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They answered, are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, that your brother or sister has something against you and your household” (Acts 16:31). St. Paul says, you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; If you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and first be reconciled to your brother or sister and believe in your heart that God raised him from the then come and offer your gift (Mt 5:23-24). dead, you will be saved (Rom 10:9). Accept Jesus as 2. FLEE FROM CIRCUMSTANCES the Saviour and Lord of your life. Believe in him; proCONDUCIVE TO SIN claim him. Then he will start interfering in our lives posiTaking a firm pledge that we will not sin again, we tively. should flee from circumstances that lead us to sin. “Have you sinned my child? Do so no more, but ask forgiveness for your past sins. Flee from sin as from a snake, for if you approach sin, it will bite you. Its teeth are lion’s teeth, and can destroy human lives” (Sir 21:1-2). One thing I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: (Ps.27:4). May 2014
2. REPENT AND PURIFY YOURSELVES “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his path straight” (Mk 1:3). Like John the Baptist, prepare the
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5. CARRY OUT ACTS OF LOVE 3. REPENT AND CONFESS Maintain constant love for one another, for love Confession and the Holy Eucharist are sacraments of wonder. When a person repents and makes a confes- covers a multitude of sins(1 Pet 4:8). Carrying our sion, God wipes away the stains of sin from his heart acts of love will reduce the burden of sin and purify the and sanctifies it. I am he who blots out your trans- heart. gressions for my own sake and I will not remem6. LISTEN TO, READ AND LEARN THE WORD ber your sins (Is 43:25). Frequent confessions enable Jesus prays: Sanctify them in the truth; your our hearts to be maintained in a pure state. This is called word is truth (Jn 17:17). When we listen to the Word constant transformation. Be transformed by the reand hymns and read them and study them newing of your minds (Rom 12:2). some purifying process takes place in Take a firm decision that you will not our heart even without our being aware postpone your next confession beyond of it. The proclivity to sin gets oblitertwo weeks. Then you will see great ated in the hearts of people who receive miracles happening to you whereby all the Word. Indeed, the word of God your diseases and problems pestering is living and active (Heb 4:12). Jesus you will go away from you. When people says, You have already been make confessions after properly repentcleansed by the word I have spoken ing their sins, God will shower his blessTherefore it would be to you (Jn 15:3). I treasure your word ings on them. in my heart, so that I may not sin quite relevant and 4. DO PENITENTIAL ACTS meaningful if we pray against you (Ps 119:11). Angel Raphael said to Tobit and for our body, mind, 7. CLEANSE IN THE PRECIOUS Tobias: Prayer with fasting is good, soul, senses and BLOOD OF CHRIST but better than both is almsgiving desires to be cleansed During the Last Supper, Jesus took with righteousness (Tobit 12:8). with the precious the cup and giving it to his apostles said, Prayer, fasting and almsgiving help us blood of Jesus. This is the blood of the covenant to purify our hearts and keep away from which is poured out for many for the the temptations to sin. Each day at least two and half forgiveness of sins (Mt 26:28). Jesus spilled his blood hours should be spent in prayer and at least once in a to remove the stains of sin from our hearts. “The blood week do fasting. Spend 1/10 th of your income in of Jesus - his Son - cleanses us from all sin� (1 Jn 1:7). almsgiving. Almsgiving saves from death and purges Therefore it would be quite relevant and meaningful if away every sin (Tobit 12:9). As water extinguishes we pray for our body, mind, soul, senses and desires to a blazing fire, so almsgiving atones for sin (Sir 3:30). be cleansed with the precious blood of Jesus. Store up almsgiving in your treasury, and it will rescue you from every disaster (Sir 29:12).
LORD WIPES AWAY OUR TEARS I suddenly contracted fever. I could not pass urine. An examination by the doctor showed that there was some lump in my urinary tract which blocked the flow of urine. The lump later burst and it got infected. I suffered excruciating pain. It was at this time I read a copy of Vachanolsavam. The testimonies there impressed me greatly. I also prayed with faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. My prayers were heard. Soon I was able to pass urine without any problem and subsequently I was fully healed. Thank you Jesus! S. Maria Chandra, Chennai
May 2014
Blessed are those whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered (Rom 4:7).
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HEALING BY CALLING ON THE LORD PAIN IN THE SPINE GOES AWAY
FREEDOM FROM VARICOSE VEIN I had been suffering from varicose vein for 8 years. Medicines did not help. I prayed earnestly for a cure, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. The good Lord heard my supplications and healed me. Thank you, Jesus! Rita Devassy, Perumpilly
As I prayed with faith for the intercession of Mother Mary and pledged my testimony in Vachanolsavam the serious pain in my spinal column went away. I also had a prostate problem which also went away because of my earnest prayers. Thank you, Jesus! Fr John Parokkaran, Thalor
CURE FROM 20-YEAR OLD TONSILITIS
CURE FROM VARICOSE VEIN
As I prayed with earnest faith and pledged my testimony in Vachanolsavam I was freed from the acute problem of tonsillitis from which I suffered immensely for nearly 20 years. Thank you, Jesus! Eliamma Varghese, Vettikuzhi
“Do not delay to turn back to the Lord and do not postpone it from day to day” (Sir 5:7).
I am asthmatic. I regularly used the drug called Seroflo. If I did not take it, I would get acute breathing problems. My blood pressure would also go down making me vomit and feel giddy. It was at this juncture a friend of mine told me to start reading Vachanolsavam. I saw the testimonies and I was impressed. I also began to pray with faith pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. My prayers were heard by the Lord. I stopped taking Seroflo. It has been two years since I used it and I feel fine. My varicose vein problem also left me. In gratitude to God for these blessings I take part in the evangelization service of Vachanolsavam. Thank you, Jesus! Carmeli Freddy, Kothad
CURED OF EPILEPSY MIGRAINE GOES AWAY My son Ebin had been suffering from constant migraine. We used to be impressed by the testimonies coming in Vachanolsavam. We too believed that our son would be healed upon prayer. We prayed with faith and pledged our testimony in Vachanolsavam. Our prayers were heard and our son’s migraine went away. Thank you, Jesus!
My husband had high blood pressure and 4 years ago his one side was paralyzed. Through treatments and prayers he was reasonably well healed. But after one year of continuous treatment he developed epilepsy. It was at this juncture we happened to read Vachanolsavam. The many testimonies there gave us hope. We too prayed to the Lord pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. His epilepsy was gone. Thank you, Jesus!
Joseph, Adatt
Rachel Varghese, Kayamkulam
And whoever does not provide for relatives, and especially for family
16 Vachanolsavam members, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1 Timo 5:8). May 2014
A WORD ON THE WORD
Fr Dr Joseph Thondiparambil According to the 4th chapter of the Book of Genesis, Cain and Abel were the first two children of our first parents (Gen 4:1-2). Cain, the elder of the two sons, murdered his brother Abel, blinded by envy (4:8). That means after the killing of Abel, there must have been only three persons on earth – Adam, Eve and Cain. But this is what is written about Cain in Gen 4:16-17: “Cain went away from the presence of the Lord and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden. Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore Enoch.” If we take this description of the 4th chapter in its literal sense, Cain must have married a daughter of Adam. It means Cain must have married his own sister.
Bible scholars have taken two different views on this issue. Some of them take chapter 1 to 11 of the Book of Genesis as history and understand their contents in their literal meaning. According to their viewpoint, until the Lord gave the Israelites laws regarding family life, marriage between siblings was in vogue. According to Gen 20:12, Abraham married his sister. In this case, the father of Abraham and Sarah was the same person but their mothers were different. In the Book of Exodus also such relations can be seen. Amram married Jochebed his father’s sister and she bore him Aaron and Moses (6:20). There are evidences to show that in ancient Egypt siblings married. In the light of all this, a group of Bible scholars opine that Cain married his own sister. The second group of scholars does not consider the
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The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? (Ps.27:1).
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Genesis chapters 1 to 11 as history in the literal sense. wickedness of humankind was great in the earth, and They are of the view in the chapters 1 to 11 some deep that every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts was truths about God man and the universe are told in the only evil continually” (6:5). That is why the Lord sends form of stories and symbolic descriptions. If we scruti- the Great Flood to cleanse the humankind. The building nize these chapters minutely we can understand that of the Tower of Babel was the breach of the very first these chapters are not to be taken in their literal mean- order of God. Instead of carrying out the first order “Be ing. The day is calculated on the basis of the rising and fruitful and multiply” (1:28), men were trying to “make a setting of the sun. The sun was created on the 4th day name for ourselves; otherwise we shall be scattered (Gen 1:14), but the 1st chapter testifies to the fact that abroad upon the face of the whole earth” (11:14). So God confused their language so that they there was night and day even before that would not understand one another’s speech. (1:5; 8:13). There are many things that It is at this difficult juncture when human hiswe do not have to take in their literal tory had got stuck in a blind alley that God sense. The God that comes to take a walk chooses Abraham and, in a true sense, the in the garden ( Gen 3:8), the Tower with salvific saga is set on its course (12:1-4). With its top in the heavens (11:4), stocking a pair each of all the creatures on earth in The story of Cain the choosing of Abraham, we are entering the epoch of human history. the 240-foot long Ark that Noah built (7:3) and Abel is etc. are not to be taken in their literal included to show Genesis Chapters 1 – 11 can be taken sense. how the evil that as a preface for the entire Holy Writ. The things described in these chapters are relThe second group of scholars see started in the evant at all times. St. James teaches that Cain and Abel not as two individuals but Paradise has as two representatives of two communi- grown into a stark when “Desire has conceived it gives birth to sin and that sin, when it is fully grown, gives ties in the ancient times. In the 4th chapreality in the birth to death” (Jas 1:15). The author of the ter we see Cain building a city (17), people history of mankind. Book of Genesis is giving us an example of working with bronze and iron tools (22) and Cain saying “anyone who meets me may kill me this truth, as revealed in the early history, by giving the (14). From all this it is obvious that the author of the details leading to the murder of Abel. In this description we see the pain and envy in the prosperity of others, Book envisaged the existence of other people also. schemes for destroying the object of the envy and the The story of Cain and Abel is included to show how prick of one conscience even as one is hatching such the evil that started in the Paradise has grown into a heinous conspiracies. All these remain as eternal truths. stark reality in the history of mankind. In the early hisTherefore it would be more meaningful and logically tory (Gen Ch 1 – 11) the growth of this evil is seen in more satisfying to think of the 4th chapter of Genesis as “the son’s of God taking wives for themselves” as they an analysis of human behaviour rather than as history saw the fair daughters of people (6:1-3) and in the buildper se. St. Paul himself taught us not to consider the ing of the Tower of Babel (11:1-9). “The Lord saw the Bible as a Book of Science (2 Tim 3:16-18).
THE BLESSING JESUS I was in serious debt and I wanted to sell a piece of land to settle the debt. Somehow I was not able to sell it for a long time. I prayerfully took part in the Vachanolsavam Adoration telecast on TV and prayed tearfully to the Lord for a solution to my vexatious problem, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. My prayers were heard and I was able to sell the land and settle my debts. In gratitude to God, I take part in the evangelization services of Vachanolsavam. Renju Shiju, Thiruvananthapuram
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The Lord is the true God; he is the living God and the everlasting King (Jer.10:10).
May 2014
Benny Thomas
You shall worship the Lord your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from among you. No one will miscarry or be barren in your land; I will fulfil the number of your days (Exo 23:25-26). This is a quotation that speaks eloquently on the value of adoration and it contains so many promises. In all the religions in the world, there is worship. People adore the persons, things and ideas they have faith in. Regarding Christian worship, the Bible presents two perspectives before us. 1. THE OLD TESTAMENT PERSPECTIVE God chooses Moses in a special way to release the Israelites, the chosen people of God, from their bondage in Egypt and tells him: “Then you shall say to the Pharaoh, ‘Thus says the Lord: Israel is my firstborn son. I said to you, ‘Let my son go that he may worship me.’” (Exo 4:22-23). God did great things through miracles and signs for the release of his people. The Pharaoh constantly refused to heed to the miraculous interferences of God. But when finally when all the firstborn of Egypt were killed, the Pharaoh had no choice
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but to bend before the might of the Lord and send his people away to worship Him. The he summoned Moses and Aaron in the night, and said, “Rise up, go away from my people. Both you and the Israelite! Go, worship the Lord, as you said (12:31). Each miracle and sign God does is an invitation to adore him. When the bondage is lifted adoration should start. When adoration starts, blessings will be showered. The Book of Exodus exemplifies this great truth. 2. THE NEW TESTAMENT BACKGROUND We are the new Israel. To get us out of the bondage of sin and evil, God did not choose any prophet, but he chose his Son, Jesus Christ, himself. “God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ – by grace you have been saved – and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Eph 2:4-6). ‘Seated us with him in heavenly places’ means He made us sit with Jesus to praise Him - God the Father. In the Old Testament the people of God were sepa-
Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near (Isa.55:6).
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rated and branded with the blood of the lamb. But in the New Testament we were separated from the world and branded with the blood of His Son – Jesus Christ – himself to be close to him. “Now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ (Eph 2:13).
tion, status, beauty and muscle power have become objects of worship. God is keenly looking for people who worship him and him alone.
In Is 45:15 we read: “Truly you are a God who hides himself, O God of Israel, the Saviour.” This is a verse that deepens our piety to and adoration of the Holy EuIn the New Testament Jesus himself teaches us charist. In the Holy Eucharist, Jesus hides his entire glory about worshipping God. To the Samaritan woman, Jesus and his whole personality. But there is said, “The hour is coming, and is no change in the person of Jesus. The now here, when the true worshipchange is only in the form. The miracle ers will worship the Father in spirit happens now. As we stand before the and truth, for the Father seeks such Holy Eucharist and worship, changes as these to worship him. God is begin to take place in us. These spirit, and those who worship him changes are seen in our spirit, mind and must worship in spirit and truth” body, in all the spheres connected with (Eph 4:23-24). us. The worship becomes meaningful. As we are retrieved by the precious WORSHIP IN SPIRIT blood of Jesus Christ, we are the new In the worship in spirit, time, Israel and so let us worship the Father clime and terrain become irrelthrough Christ. Those who do not worevant. God is spirit and since the ship Jesus Christ breach the first comspirit dwells in me, I can worship mandment and degenerate into worGod anytime, anywhere irrespecshipers of idols. Even Jesus was tive of what I am doing. Even as tempted by Satan by promising him all Since truth does not we travel we can worship God change, worship in truth sorts of blessings if he, Jesus, was without any problem. ready to prostrate himself before him should be to the one that WORSHIP IN TRUTH and worship him. We should realize that Since truth does not change, does not change. Who is Satan lurks everywhere in different worship in truth should be to the one the one without change? forms and fashions to tempt us with all that does not change. Who is the kinds of titillating, scintillating promises Jesus Christ. He comes one without change? Jesus Christ. of glitter, glitz and glamour. We should from God with whom He comes from God with whom be able to keep the vile tempter as far there is no variation or there is no variation or shadow due away as possible, never letting him get shadow due to change. to change (Jam 1:17). The world, close to us with his hypocrisy and preits people, creatures and all things tension. “Worship the Lord your God are subject to change. All the people, even those who and serve only him” (Mt 4:10). “You shall worship no had usurped the title of God briefly, went behind the other God, because the Lord whose name is Jealous, is curtains of time and were changed into dust. But the a jealous God” (Exo 34:14). Jesus presents himself in only real God – Jesus Christ – abides. He is permanent, the form of bread because bread is a primary need of eternal. “Jesus is the same yesterday and today and man. You shall worship the Lord your God, and I will forever” (Heb 13:8). bless your bread and water; and I will take sicknesses Today we are living in a period where there are away from among you. No one shall miscarry or be bargods galore! We have human gods; material gods; plea- ren in your land. I will fulfil the number of your days” sure gods; animal gods; screen gods; game gods. The (Exo 23:25-26). Let us obtain these and other countless influence of the world is so much on people that they blessings by worshipping Jesus and Jesus alone. Jesus, become blind and even the faithful are often led astray we worship you in spirit and truth. by these fake, glittery gods. Today wealth, power, posi20 Vachanolsavam
‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.’ (2 Cor.12:9).
May 2014
THE WORD TOUCH
SOLACE IN OUR PAIN I will sing to the Lord because he has dealt bountifully with me” (Ps 13:6). When I was pregnant with my second baby, I went for a scan in the 6th month. From the scan it was found the position of the baby was not right and the placenta was below. The gynaecologist said that a Caesarean might be necessary and it would be quite a problematic one. There was the possibility of bleeding which could prove risky. At the end of the 6th month, there was bleeding and I got admitted to the hospital. The gynaecologist said that if there was further bleeding, an immediate Caesarean would be necessary. Since the baby was not sufficiently grown, it could prove fatal to it. Then we sought prayer help from Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor. We pledged our testimony if everything went normal. My entire parish prayed for me under the leadership of the parish priest.
The prayers proved potent. The bleeding ceased and other problems were lessened. Later a Caesarean was done. In readiness for any emergency, some people with A+ positive blood group were willing to give blood. Blood from 12 persons was collected. With the help of God, the Caesarean went normally and in 2 hours’ time the baby and the mother were moved into the ward. Although bleeding was expected, nothing happened. No blood was necessary. After the Caesarean, the doctor told gleefully, “Something miraculous has happened. Even a normal Caesarean was not as easy as this one. It looked as if the placenta was neatly removed by somebody.” We strongly believe that things went well because of the prayers. Thank you, Jesus! Reena Tony, Lakidi
GOD HELPS My wife became pregnant after 7 years of our first daughter’s birth. In the 4th month of her pregnancy, she contracted jaundice. She was admitted to the medical college hospital. Tests showed that the jaundice was a severe one. The entire body looked yellow. We were seriously distressed. All the people advised an abortion. When the gynaecologist said that it might have affected even the child, we were in a dilemma not knowing what to do. But we prayed faithfully to the Lord. Many others also prayed for us. We pledged our testimony on the smooth delivery of a normal child. Soon she was healed and in the fullness of time she delivered a healthy baby girl. A blood test of the child showed she was without any problem. Baiju Raju, Placheri As I prayed with earnest faith and pledged my testimony in Vachanolsavam I passed my SSLC with 90% marks. Thank you Jesus! Magdalene Sophia, Salem
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Rom 8:26)
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The righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe (Rom 3:22).
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Prof Joseph Madappally In the beginning God created the universe. Then he made man and kept him in the Garden of Eden, to maintain it and till it. When man became recalcitrant and disobeyed God, the Garden proved unfit for him. Until then his efforts on the land were a pleasant experience but from the time of his sinning, they became arduous and straining. For the woman parturition, childbirth, became a painful thing. Both man and the women had the ‘labour’ problem! God does not want man to be indolent. A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich (Pro 10:4). Those who till their land will have plenty of food (12:11). Labour should be capable of giving joy to the body, mind and spirit. Then labour will be a boon, a blessing. The old adage says that the mind of a lazy man is the workshop of the devil. Scattered throughout the Bible we can see eulogies and encomiums praising work, emphasizing its glory and greatness. The Apostle is happy to have worked with his hands as he was proclaiming the word of God. He counsels: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat (2 Thess 3:10). Such persons should do their work quietly and earn their own living (3:12). In the Bible we come across a worker who made his work worship – St. Joseph. He does not speak much. 22 Vachanolsavam
We hardly hear him speak anything. His words are in his hands. Don’t we say “Actions speak louder than words?” We also say, “Keep your tongue in and do your work.” This is what St. Joseph did. He kept his tongue in and he let his hands do the speaking. His hands were calloused from hard work. He did carpentry work. When the Jews found that Jesus was a mine of wisdom they were amazed and they said to one another, “Where did he get all this wisdom and power? Isn’t he the son of that carpenter?” The work of a carpenter involves a lot of physical strength and also mental calculations. The Greek word for carpentry is ‘tekton’. Literally it means a person who sees, and understands, the inner working of the earth. The Latin word ‘carpentum’, however means a cart. If a cart is to move or run properly, its parts must function meticulously. I think the modern word for carpenter could be ‘Woodcraft engineer’. Why not? If a watch repairer can call himself ‘Chrono Engineer’ and a man doing patchwork on punctured tubes can call himself ‘pneumatics engineer’, there is nothing wrong in calling a carpenter a woodcraft engineer. Jesus practised the same trade as his foster father. Jesus was known as a carpenter in his village. Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon?” (Mk 6:3). Something born in fire will not wilt and wither in the hot sunshine, however strong it might be. The nature of St. Joseph was pristine, spick and span like a freshly
I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my children are walking in the truth (3 Jn.1:4).
May 2014
polished carpentry piece. His life was full of challenges. chores, by doing things like drawing water from the well. Journey to Bethlehem taking along with fully pregnant Here is a real family picture. We should learn from that wife; wandering there searching for an inn; flight to Egypt family our duties along with our rights. The family is the first fellowship in the Church. If all the with the mother and son – only a man with In one sense we families emulated the example of the a mind of steel could have accepted these Holy Family, the earth would be challenges. The secret of his strength was can say that Jesus acquired his heaven. The family background of his unflinching faith in God. He was born strength of both Jesus is depicted in his teachings. His in the royal line. In the Tribe of David, his body and mind references to the ‘log in the eye’ (Mt father was Jacob (Mt 1:16) and his mother 7:3), ‘narrow gate’ (7:13), ‘building was Heli (Lk 3:23). This must have been from the workshop of St. Joseph and house on rock’ (7:27) and ‘proclamapossible because of the Levirate marriage the blessing of his tion from the housetop’ (10:27) are – a brother marrying the widow of his Heavenly Father. abundant testimonies to this. St. Joseph brother - as seen in Deuteronomy 15: 5-6. Let that be a was a model for workers and therefore Jacob and Heli might have been siblings. lesson for us also. in 1985 Pope Pius XII declared him as People say work is worship. The the Patron of Workers. It marks a revoBenedictine monks have their Latin slogan ‘Laborare est orare’. It means to work is to pray. lutionary novelty – rerum novarum. This is fully seen at work in St. Joseph. St. Joseph elOnly one who has experienced the travails of backevates the dignity of labour to a higher level. For him breaking work can console another person in the same work is his pride. He kept the order God that one should boat. There are people who thrive on work and there earn his bread with the sweat of his brow. In the matter are people who tire on work. Jesus said, Come to me, is his trade, he is the employer and the employee, the all that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, capitalist and the labourer! An independent kind of work. and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, No exploitation of the employee by the employer or vice and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble of versa. His workshop was adjacent to his home. It was heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Mt 11:28in that workshop Jesus got his training as a carpenter 29). In one sense we can say that Jesus acquired his and where he worked. Even as a child he worked with strength of both body and mind from the workshop of the chisel and hammer, marking the wood with his pen- St. Joseph and the blessing of his Heavenly Father. Let cil. He also helped his mother Mary in her household that be a lesson for us also.
JESUS ANSWERS To do an appendectomy on my husband, a blood test was done. The test showed he had hepatitis B. We prayed tearfully to the Lord for a cure for him pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. The next blood test showed everything to be normal. Thank you, Jesus! Jinsy Shaiju, Angadikadavu
May 2014
I had an allergy problem on my leg which had been bothering me for 5 years. I prayed with faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. I was fully healed. Thank you, Jesus! Mariamma Ouseph, Alappuzha My daughter had a peculiar problem. On her lips some flesh-like growth was happening. The doctor recommended a surgery. We were greatly distressed. It was then we happened to get a copy of Vachanolsavam. We prayed earnestly to Jesus, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. Slowly the fleshy growth contracted and her lips got their original shape. Sunilkumar, Wayanad
The Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one (2 Thess 3:3).
Vachanolsavam 23
Dr Reju Varghese Kalleli
T
he first man Adam was born from the living fellow ship of the Holy Trinity - the Triune God. God then said, Let’s make humankind in our image, according to our likeness (Gen 1:26).
capacity of being fruitful. All the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth (Gen 13:1516). I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will, make nations of you; and kings shall come from you (17:6-7). I will indeed bless you and I will make your offspring as numerous as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of your enemies (22:17).
THE BLESSING OUR FIRST PARENTS OBTAINED God blessed the first couple - Adam and Eve - to continue carrying out the work of creation. This is how God blessed them: Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it (Gen 1:28). If THE BLESSING GIVEN TO man is to subdue the earth, two things are REBEKAH The biggest evil essential. One is that man should never As Rebekah is getting ready to go to that is gnawing destroy his capacity for being fruitful. The her husband’s home, her people give her the families today is other is he should fill the earth. This filling of the earth is to be done through the the evil of extinction. Let us blessings for being the mother of generaloving union of the couple in the natural pray that God bless all the tions. They said to her: May you, our way to become fruitful and have offspring. couple with the mentality to sister, become thousands of myriads; accept as many children may your offspring gain possession of BLESSING RECEIVED BY NOAH the gates of their foes (24:60). as God is pleased After the Great Flood, God was to give them. THE BLESSING ISAAC GOT pleased with Noah and he establishes a God tells Isaac that he would fulfil covenant with him. “God blessed Noah the oath that he swore to his father and his sons, ad said to them, Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth (Gen 9:1, 9:7). The Abraham: I will make your offspring as numerous basis reason for the current economic depression in the as the stars of heaven, and will give to your offspring all these lands and all the nations of the earth world is that the earth is not filled with people. shall gain blessing for themselves through your THE BLESSING ABRAHAM GOT offspring (26:4). The reason for the physical and spiriAbraham had grown old without having any chiltual crisis threatening the world today is the lack of dren. Still, in his old age God blesses Abraham with the enough human resources. 24 Vachanolsavam
There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. So who, then, are you to judge your neighbour? (James 4:12)
May 2014
THE BLESSING JACOB RECEIVED God who blessed Abraham and Isaac also blesses Jacob. Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south ((28:14). God said to him, I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall spring from you (35:11).
THE BLESSING JOSEPH GOT The blessing the dying Jacob gives his son Joseph is noteworthy: The Almighty ...will bless you with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lies beneath, blessings of the breasts and of the womb (49:26). The biggest evil that is gnawing the families today is the evil of extinction. Let us pray that God bless all the couple with the mentality to accept as many children as God is pleased to give them.
JESUS SHOWERS HIS BLESSINGS As I prayed with faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, our son was blessed with a job abroad. Saramma Varghese, Gujarat
As I prayed with earnest faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, I passed my SSLC with A+ in all subjects. Femi Joseph, Madaikonam
As we all prayed with earnest faith, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam, our daughter Thirtha passed her CBSC Class X Examination with A+ in all subjects. Sindhu Reji, Kumbazha
Because of my prayer for intercession of Mother Mary and my pledge to give my testimony in Vachanolsavam, all the obstacles on my way were removed and I got a good job abroad. Albin Jose, Ancheri As I prayed with earnest faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, I passed my CBSE Class X Exam with A+ in all subjects. Moreover I obtained first rank in the entrance examination and I got admission in one of the best schools. Thank you, Jesus! Maria Mathew, Athani
As we prayed with faith, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam our daughter scored high in her GCSE UK Examination. Shirley Jose, UK
As I prayed with earnest faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, my son passed his CA Examination and he was blessed with a job abroad. Thank you, Jesus!
As we prayed with faith, seeking the intercession of Mother Mary and pledging our testimony in Vachanolavam, our son Bibin was blessed with a good job in a bank. Thank you, Jesus!
Joseph, Iritti
John, Muthalakodam
May 2014
Those who bring thanksgiving as their sacrifice honour me (Ps 50:23).
Vachanolsavam 25
Children’s Corner
T
here was a rat surreptitiously living in a house. As it was not getting enough food, it became like a skeleton. One day it entered the room where there was a barn, a large wooden chest, containing paddy. There was a small hole on one side of the barn. The rat could get into the barn with great difficulty, by squeezing its body to the smallest size. Inside the barn there was plenty of fresh paddy. He stayed in the barn enjoying the sumptuous food and thanking the stars for his good fortune. Slowly it became plump. It now wanted to get out of the chest. But there was no way! The hole was too small for it to get out. Try as it might, it could not come out. He got panicky. He started running inside the chest unconsciously knocking here and there. The sounds from the chest alerted the owner. He came and he understood the reason for the noise inside. He slowly opened the door of the barn and as the rat tried to jump out, he hit it so hard with a large stick that the rat was smashed to pulp!
In our life do we give the primary place to God? Or are we giving greater importance to riches or some other things? Consecrating our hearts to God does not necessarily mean completely ignoring earning wealth. Wealth is needed for our welfare. But part of that wealth must be used for the well-being of others also. Right from our early childhood we have been hearing about Jesus, the Holy Church, and receiving various sacraments. We have been growing experiencing the blessings of God. But is our God-experience momentary? Very often we keep God at arm’s length. Family prayers are getting less these days. People take part in the Holy Eucharist as if they are just carrying out a routine obligation and not many people spend their time to read and contemplate the Word of God.
The main reason for all these laxities and lapses is our inability to abide in the love of God. We should ever remember that God is our creator and our nurturer. It is when we take part with zeal and enthusiasm in the Holy Even if we gain everything we desire what is the Eucharist that peace and joy fill our hearts. God so loved use if our life is in danger? The foolish man runs after the world that he gave his only Son so that everyluxury and lasciviousness and thus destroys himself. one who believes in him may not perish but may Today many people are making all out efforts to cel- have eternal life (Jn 3:16). ebrate their life with pomp and show. About the people My Dear Friends, as we grow, let us make greater who live luxuriously ignoring the plight of the poor and efforts to increase our knowledge about Jesus and his the needy, Jesus said, What will it profit them if they teachings. As Jesus grew in wisdom and years, let us gain the whole world but forfeit their life? (Mt 16:26). also grow, being role models to others. Let us recognize When we forget God, our eyes firmly fixed at the glitter the value of life, the precious gift of God. “How sweet and glamour of this world, our only thought is how to are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to make more money. The English poet William Wordsworth my mouth!” (Ps 119:103). rightly said, “Getting and spending we lay waste our With love powers.” Br Joy But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, 26 Vachanolsavam and all these things will be given to you as well (Mt 6:33). May 2014
Vincentian Path -17
RENEWAL THROUGH WORD PROCLAMATION In the 17 th century, the Church of France was in a declining state in many ways. There was a group of scholars as well as saintly people in Paris who wanted to renew the Church. Vincent de Paul was also in the magnetic field of this group and here he found his true call. He was convinced that any renewal effort should return to the basic Gospel message of proclaiming the love of God. He gives this counsel to his colleagues during a Conference he had with them: “Brothers, let us love God; but it should be done through the power of our hands and the sweat of our brows. This is what is needed for the renewal of the Church.” Many priests and other religious personae failed in this duty of theirs. Their apostolic and charitable work did not have a proper sense of direction or goals. We can summarize the thoughts of Vincent about the priestly and religious people and the services they rendered to the society. They took pains to appear pious and if they got some spiritual experiences they began to think that their religious life was complete and in the
right direction. They hardly took any initiative to start anything fresh. They were not willing to suffer for the sake of the love of God. They were not willing to suppress their physical and worldly desires. They were not ready to give the poor religious training or go out looking for the lost sheep or to suffer any inconveniences. The harvest was plenty and it needed a lot of reapers. But Vincent insists that the reapers must be ready to reap – ready to work hard. The light and strength we receive while praying should be shared with others. It is this model of Jesus that the Apostles followed. If this is to become possible Martha and Mary should synthesize in our hearts. The mother dove eats only half the food it gets and gives the other half to its fledglings. In the same way our love for God should be proved by such acts. This is the counsel that Vincent de Paul gave his followers. He practised what he preached. St. James makes it very clear: Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead (Jas 2:17). Let us examine ourselves and see whether our prayer experience leads us to acts for the coming of the Kingdom of God.
LITTLE MISSIONARIES Abimal Varghese is a student of St. Augustine School. He distributes 25 copies of Vachanolsavam each month, contributing his share in the evangelization efforts of Vachanolsavam. Frank Ben Joseph and Frenel Ben Jacob are students of Thirupur Little Flower Convent Matric Higher Secondary School. Each month they distribute 45 copies of Vachanolsavam in English, Malayalam and Tamil doing their bit in the evangelization work. Nijo K. Jose, Kannampuzha House Mala, distributes 100 copies of Vachanolsavam each month. They all thank the Lord for enabling them to do this service. May 2014
Fr Dr James Chelappuram V.C.
From the book of Samuel
Can You Answer? 1. The name Hannah gave her son to mean “I have asked him of the Lord”. 2. By hearing what news did Eli die? 3. For how many days did Goliath challenged the Israelites? 4. With what weapon did David face Goliath? 5. To escape from whom did David pretend to be mad? Answers on P. 32 (Next Quiz from 2 SamueI )
I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins (Is 43:25).
Vachanolsavam 27
FOR GOD NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE Even after 17 years of our married life we did not have a baby. We continued praying to God, sincerely believing that one day we would be blessed. We pledged our testimony in Vachanolsavam on success. Our prayers proved fruitful and after 17 long years we were blessed with a baby boy. Thank you, Jesus! Sebi Francis, Vadakkanchery We did not have a child even after 8 years of our marriage. We attended a retreat and prayed tearfully to the Lord, pledging our testimony in Vachanolavam. We were blessed with a baby. Thank you, Jesus! Thomas and Sanna, Poyya We were married for 9 years but we did not have any child. We prayed earnestly to Jesus for his succour. Our prayers were fruitful. We were blessed with a beautiful baby girl. Thank you, Jesus! Biju, Thrissur
Our daughter Maya James did not have a child even after 8 years of her marriage. Different treatments were done but to no avail. Then we prayed with faith, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. We also pledged to assist with the evangelization programme through Vachanolsavam. Soon we were blessed with a baby. Thank you, Jesus! James Puthuparambil, Manikkadavu 28 Vachanolsavam
We did not have a child even after 8 years of our married life. We prayed hard pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. We also went to Potta Ashram and prayed there. We were blessed with a child soon. Nitha Thomas, Chirangara My son was married for 7 years but he did not become a father. It was quite distressing to all of us. We all then prayed with faith, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. We were blessed with a baby. Thank you, Jesus! Eliamma, Edappally
Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive (Mt 21:22). We did not have a child even after 6 years of our marriage. We took part in a retreat and prayed hard, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. Our prayers were heard by the Lord and we were blessed with a beautiful baby girl. Jolly Thomas, Mundamveli Even after 6 years of our married life, we did not have a child. We then went to Potta Ashram and prayed tearfully to the Lord, pledging our testimony in Vachanolsavam. We were soon blessed with a bouncing baby boy. Thank you, Jesus! Jenson & Rinya, Koratty
Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete (Jn 16:24).
May 2014
CALL NO ONE YOUR FATHER ON EARTH (Mt 23:9)
Fr Dr John F. Cheriavely V.C. By this statement did Jesus mean that one should not call the man who gave him birth as father? How should then he call him? By his name? By some endearing terms like ‘brother’? Our common sense definitely says that it could not have been that. It can be safely guessed that all the Christians in the early Church addressed the men who gave them birth as ‘Father’ or similar words which meant the same thing. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, Jesus himself has shown that the prodigal addressed his father ‘father’ (Lk 15:21). Jesus says “Call no one your father on earth” on the occasion of his talking about the hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees in the Jewish community. We can understand the true import of this statement of Jesus only when we realize who the Scribes and Pharisees were and how much they were desirous of grabbing titles and nomenclatures depicting authority and honour. The Scribes and Pharisees considered words like ‘father’, ‘guru’ and ‘leader’ as criteria indicative of religious authority, veneration and piety. The Jewish Community measured their faith and piety using some strange yardsticks which included the position of your seat, the way you dressed and the way you were addressed by the people. The fact of the matter is we can’t measure piety through the paraphernalia we see externally or the appellations we hear. Good and evil, virtue May 2014
and vice, come from the heart. The source of faith and piety is the heart. Jesus taught that there is no reason to give too much importance to matters seen or heard outside (Mt 23:26-27). When they returned to Jerusalem after their slavery in Egypt, the Jews submitted themselves to keeping the law in 450 BC. But in 175 BC, Anticos Epiphanus of Syria tried to destroy the Jewish religion. The Scribes, at different times, wrote down more than 6000 laws. The Pharisees are a unique group of Jews of that time that vowed to keep all these laws meticulously. There were 7 types or categories of Pharisees at the time of Jesus. 1. Those who gave undue importance to religious rites: These people were particular that others saw their religious rites. 2. Those who postponed things: They talked a lot; they hardly did anything. 3. Pharisees who were anti-women: They were so much against women that they would not talk to even their wife, mother or sister in public. If they saw women on the road, they would close their eyes and walk. Sometime they fell down and sustained injuries. They were proud to exhibit such wounds to others. They thought the viewers would consider highly of their piety.
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven (Mk 2:5).
Vachanolsavam 29
4. The Stooping Pharisees: They walked with a slight bend to impress people that they were humble. 5. The Account-Keeping Pharisees: These Pharisees kept an account of all the pious acts like prayers, fasting and almsgiving they did in order to convince others how great they were in the eyes of God. 6. The doubting and fearful Pharisees: These were always worried if they had made any mistakes in the observance of conventions. They would even be worried if they cleaned their plates properly and carried out other things strictly in accordance with the laws. 7. Pharisees who feared God: They made sure that they meticulously followed the rules as they were afraid of God and any breach of his commandments. Only this last group will be considered legitimate and somewhat upright by those who correlate religion with spirituality in its real sense. Jesus said about the Pharisees: They do all their deeds to be seen by others (Mt 23:5). You ... on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness (23:28). They wanted people to address them as ‘Rabbi’ (guru) and ‘Father’ (Mt 23:7). Many of the Pharisees tried their best to grab respect and honour from others. It is this attitude that Jesus considered defective in the Scribes and Pharisees. Honouring one’s parents is one of the Ten Commandments. God said, ‘Honour your father and mother’. ... But you say that whoever tells father or mother, ‘Whatever support you might have had from me is given to God,’ then that person need not honour the father. So, for the sake of your tradition, you make void the word of God (Mt 15:4-7). These words of Jesus can be taken as evidence of the crooked way the Scribes and Pharisees interpreted the law. These words also underscore the importance of honourably serving one’s parents. Jesus, who acknowledged the authority of even Pilate (Jn 19:11), recognizes the authority of the Scribes and Pharisees. The Scribes and Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat;’ therefore do whatever they teach you and follow it; but to not do as they do, for they do not practise what they teach (Mt 23:2-3). St. Paul also taught that it was the duty of the Christians to be loyal to the legally constituted authorities (Rom 13:12).
ops and Priests as ‘Father’. Can this be approved as per the teaching of Christ? We have shown that Jesus did not forbid calling the person who gave you birth ‘father’. In the Parable of the Prodigal son, the prodigal calls his father ‘father’. In the Bible we see that Prophet Elisha used to call Prophet Elijah ‘Father’ (2 Kings 2:12). It can also be surmised that the disciples and the people called prophets like Elijah father and they deserve it. Therefore when Elisha called Elijah ‘father’ neither Jesus nor the apostles thought he was doing something undesirable. During the Transfiguration of Christ, prophet Elijah appears (Mt 17:4). In his speech, Jesus makes references to the miracles done by both Elijah and Elisha (Lk 4:25-30). The appellation “Father” rightly belongs to God, the creator of all. But from the life of Elisha, we learn that even those who occupy special places in the realm of service can also be addressed by the epithet ‘Father’. Most of the Scribes and Pharisees during the time of Jesus were not at all eligible to be called ‘Father’. Calling them ‘Father’ is tantamount to insulting great Prophets like Elijah. Jesus has made it very clear that the Scribes and Pharisees had highly perverted notions about the laws and their observance. It is not difficult for us to understand that in the early Christian communities the shepherds of the people were considered and called ‘Father’. St. Paul wrote: “Though you might have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers. Indeed, in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel (1 Cor 4:15). Almost the same thing has been told in different verses of the Bible (1 Thess 2:11; 1 Pet 5:13). Fully acknowledging the glory and status of the only Heavenly Father, there is nothing inappropriate in calling the person who gave you birth or the persons who are in special authority in the Church ‘Father’. The prohibition is in calling the crooked Scribes and Pharisees during the time of Jesus by the appellation ‘father’.
Jesus instructed that his apostles and disciples should never try to exact or grab respect and honour from people just like the Scribes and Pharisees were doing. The Scribes and Pharisees very much wanted people to address them ‘Father’ and ‘Rabbi’ (Mt 23:7). That was their mistake. There is not even an iota of spirituality in those who try elevate themselves to positions they do not deserve (Mt 23:11-12). They are absolutely ineliThe Catholics address the Pope, Cardinals, Bish- gible to be addressed ‘Father’. It is by your holding fast to the word of life that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labour in vain (Phil 2:16). 30 Vachanolsavam May 2014
PRAYER BRINGS HEALING The son of a colleague of mine suffered from a heart affliction. I gave my colleague a copy of Vachanolsavam. She read the testimonies there and believing in the miraculous powers of prayer, prayed to Jesus pledging her testimony in Vachanolsavam. A surgery was successfully done on her boy and he was fully healed. Thank you Jesus! Reena Francis, Puthukkadai
I used to experience severe pain in my right hand which prevented me from doing any work. I prayed with faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. My pain went away. Thank you Jesus! Amali, Chennai As I prayed with earnest faith, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam, I got employed in a school. Thank you Jesus! A. Marggise, Kulasekharam
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Ps 73:26).
Three discs of my spinal cord were misaligned causing me severe pain. I could hardly do any work. The doctor recommended a surgery to sort out the problem. Then I sought divine help. I prayed for a cure without surgery, pledging my testimony in Vachanolsavam. I was healed. Thank you Jesus! J. Francisca Preethi, East Tambaram
VACHANOLSAVAM PARISHES The New Vachanolsavam Parishes where all families get Vachanolsavam are:-
1. St.Benedict Church, Santhipuram, Kolazhi, Thrissur Archdiocese 2. St.G Antony’s Church, Chennur, Varapuzha Archdiocese 3. Holy Rosary Church, Udaipur Diocese, Rajasthan 4. St. Thomas Forane Church,x Malappuram, Thamarassery Archdiocese 5. St. Mary’s Church, Vendoor, thrissurArchdiocese 6. St. Joseph’s Church, Malappuram, Kozhikode Diocese 7. St. Mary’s Church, Venginnassary, Thrissur Archdiocese 8. St. Antony’s Church, Perumbadappur, Chendrappinni, Irinjalakuda Diocese We also invite you to be a part and parcel of this divine ministry. To get Vachanolsavam at subsidised prices for a complete Vachanolsavam parish, Please contact the Editor.
May 2014
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven (Mk 2:5).
Vachanolsavam 31
RESOURCE CAMPAIGN CELL (RCC) CONTRIBUTORS Robert John Britto, Perungudi, Chennai 1000 Rosline L Fernandes, Mangalore 1000 Femila, Tirunelveli, Tamilnadu 1500 Regina Anand, Bangalore, Karnataka 1512 L Rodrigues, Goa 5000 T.T. Joseph, Tiruvallikeni, Chennai 1000 Gnanapragasam, Chromepet, Chennai 1000 K.O. Augustine, Kozhikode 1000 Walter, Kashimade, Chennai 1200 Joy, West Hill, Calicut 1300 Lawrence, Mettur Dam, Tamilnadu 1000 T.R. Joseph, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 1000 Mrs. Shany Joseph, Pune, Maharashtra 1000 Ram Bhadur Prajapati, Noida 1000 Lucy Paul, Delhi 1000 Irudayasamy, Erode 1000 Yesudasan Netto, Poovar 1000 Johnson,Karnataka 2000 Kasturi R Sampagavi, Hubli 2000 Amutha, Tumkur, Karnataka 5000 George Michael, Thoothukudi 1000 Reetha L, Bangaolre 1000 Dr. A Maria Arputham, Manalikattuvilai 1000 Mrs. Rovina D’Souza, Andheri 1000 Lily Mammen, Malaysia 1000 Maria Fernandes, Margao 2000 Nisha D’Souza, Malad, Mumbai 1000 P.P Noronha, Mangalore 1000 Mr.Pradeep K. Joseph, Cuttack 2000 J. Francisca Preethi, Chennai 3000 Mr & Mrs.Darryll Creado, Mumbai 2000 Sr. Victorine, Oliyamangalam, Pudukottai 1000 Savio Judas, Goa 1000 Mrs. Victorine Aranha, Goa 12000 Lissamma Baby, Ranchi, Jharkand 2000 Francis Ashis Dey, Midnapur 1000 Lourdes M D’Silva, America 10000 Miss Celine Gomez, Singapore 1000 Edison, Bahrain 10000 Glory Fathima, Shanthoor 5000 Lissamma Joseph, Jharkhand 2500 Alice Jeoboy, Ahmedabad 5500 S.M. Fredy, VAllavilai, Kollencode 1000 Arputham, Kodaikanal 1000 Mani Thomas, Mumbai 2500 Ivy Enterprises, Thane 1000 Palmira Noronha, Goa 1000 Mrs. M.G. Ida, Asaripallam 5000 Terence & Mary D’Lima, Pune 1000 (Due to lack of space we could not include the names of all contributors) 32 Vachanolsavam
LET US JOIN HANDS IN PRAYER VA CHANOLSA VAM VACHANOLSA CHANOLSAV ROSAR Y FELL OWSHIP ROSARY FELLO You are invited to join the Vachanolsavam Rosary Fellowship (VRF) and pray for all the Vachanolsavam Missionaries, Subscribers and Readers all over the world and their families.
Those who are interested in joining the VRF should send their names, addresses, and phone numbers to: The Editor, Vachanolsavam, (VRF), Potta 680 722, Chalakudy, Thrissur, Kerala Each Rosary should be said for the Prayer Intentions of Vachanolsavam. The Intentions for the 8 Daily Rosaries for the month of May 1. For people of all religions all over the world to know Christ and become believers through Vachanolsavam. 2. For blessings for the Vachanolsavam Missionaries and their families. 3. For the fulfillment of the intentions of the readers. 4. To offer thanksgiving for all the blessings and healings received through Vachanolsavam. 5. For the success of Vachanolsavam Retreats, Popular Mission Retreats and other services rendered at the Vincentian Retreat Centres. 6. For those who are appearing for various examinations. 7. For those who want to work in the vineyard of the Lord. 8. For the people in the Sehion Retreat Center, Attappady Ministry.
The readers of the Vachanolsavam, published in 7 languages, its missionaries and the benefactors become spiritually united in prayer on the last Sunday of every month, between 8 pm - 8.30 pm. Answers of the Quiz: 1. Samuel (1 Sam 1:20) 2. The news of the capture of the Ark of God (1 Sam 4:18) 3. 40 days (1 Sam 17:16) 4. Sling and stone (1 Sam 17:50) 5. From King Achish of Gath (1 Sam 21:12-13)
No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (Jn. 15:13)
May 2014
NEWS RETREAT NEWS
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Ps 73:26).
DIVINE LOVE RETREAT CENTRE JALALKHALI, WEST BENGAL Divine Love Retreat Centre Jalalkhali - 741102, Nadia, West Bengal, Ph:03472-204414, 9735423197
May 18th - 22nd Healing Retreat
EMMAUS RENEWAL CENTRE Perpetual adoration 07:30 am to 8.00 pm
Divine Mercy Healing Prayers 03:00 pm to 4.15 pm Every day Holy Mass 4.15 pm to 5.00 pm monthly programme First Thursday evening healing service English (time 05.00 pm to 8.00 pm) Third Thursday evening healing service Bengali ( time 05.00 pm to 8.00 pm) every last Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening healing retreat (English /Hindi /Bengali) Vincentian Ashram 2/8 B Sarat Bose Road Kolkata 700 020 Ph:(033) 24764056, 9163621942 email emmauskolkata@gmail.com
LOGOS RETREAT CENTRE BANGALORE rd
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Saturday : Night Vigil (10 pm - 5.30 am)
P.B. No. 4326, Logos Nagar 29, Mallappa Layout, Babusahibpalya -560043, Bangalore Ph:080-25451252, 9449658315
DIVINE RETREAT CENTRE, KHETRI, GUWAHATI (N.E of INDIA) Every first Friday and every second Saturday, there will be fasting Prayers and Healing Service (9.00 am to 3.30) Every day there are round the clock intercessory prayers and prayer requests will be accepted through phone, letters and e-mail. All those who have attended one retreat at D.R.C., Khetri,and would like to intercede for others can join this ministry. Forty days directed residential retreat for religious are conducted at the centre. Retreat can be booked as per the request of the group (Catechists, Youth, Teachers, Couples). Religious are most welcome for personal prayers and stay. Every week residential retreats are conducted in different languages at the Centre. (English, Hindi, Assamese, Karbi, Khasi, Garo, Tiwa, Boro, Maram, Nagamese, Divine Retreat Centre,Khetri P.O., Nalgedra Village, Kamrup Dist,Assam-782403. Contact -09401459682/09401015493/09435305529 Email: vcdivine@gmail.com
CARMEL DIVINE RETREAT CENTRE DARLINGTON , U.K Email:Divinetvuk@dvnonline.org,carmel-divine@live.co.uk Address: Carmel Divine Retreat Centre, Carmelite Convent, Nunnery Lane, Darlington DL3 9PN, U.K. Facebook: Carmel Divine Retreat Centre
ON YOUR GOODNESS T.V. VACHANOLSAVAM WORD SERVICE AND ADORATION EVERY SUNDAY, 9.30 - 10 P.M. May 2014
For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead (James 2:26).
Vachanolsavam 33
NEWS FR CHA VARA KURIAK OSE ELIAS AND CHAV KURIAKOSE SR EUPHRASIA CL OSER TO SAINTHOOD CLOSER Six years after the canonization of Sister Alphonsa as India's first woman saint by the Vatican, Fr Kuriakose Elias Chavara and Sister Euphrasia Eluvathingal moved closer to the sainthood with Pope Francis approving miracles attributed to them. Vatican information Service (VIS) announced this after the Holy Father Francis received in audience Cardinal Angelo Amato, S.D.B., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, during which he authorised the Congregation to promulgate the decrees concerning the miracles attributed to Blessed Kuriacose Elias Chavara, Indian professed priest and founder of the Congregation of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (1805-1871) and Blessed Euphrasia of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (nee Rose Eluvathingal), professed religious of the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (1877-1952). Both Chavara and Euphrasia belong to the Syro Malabar Church, as Sister Alphonsa. The Pope endorsed the decree submitted by the
Vatican's panel on sainthood. Both Chavara and Euphrasia were beatified during the tenure of Pope John Paul II. An official declaration will be made later by the consistory of Cardinals during which the date of the canonization would be announced. Chavara (18051871), born in Kainakari near Alappuzha, was a social reformer and educator of the Kerala Catholic community. He founded the congregation, Carmalites Mary Immaculate (CMI), which runs several educational and charity institutions. He was beatified in 1986. Sister Euphrasia (1877-1952), who led a life of total devotion, hailed from Kattoor near Thrissur in central Kerala.
OBITUARY Vachanolsavam Missionaries Augusty, Cungath, Enammavu, and Marykkutty Varghese, Manivilla, Chertala, have been called to heaven by the Lord. We thank God for all the good work accomplished through them. The entire Vachanolsavam family condoles with the family members, relatives and friends of the deceased. We pray for the departed souls. May Marykkutty Augusty Chungath they rest in perfect peace! Amen! Varghese, Manivila
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He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation (Mk 16:15).
May
2014