17 February 2014
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What Satya Nadella As Microsoft’s New CEO Means For The Company lends itself well to its new strategic course of action. Whether this present he appointment of the gamble pays off in the fuwidely respected, unas ture remains to be seen. suming in-house “techHowever, having a connologist” in Satya Nadella as crete vision in place is at Microsoft Inc’s new CEO least a step in the right comes at a time when The direction. Redmond, USA based tech Another area of congiant, struggles to compete cern is Microsoft’s ambivaon an even footing in an inlence with regards to its creasingly competitive indusmobile handset business. try. In what was a predictable The acquisition of Nokia’s turn of events, Steve Ballmer’s handset business last year 15 year reign came to a dehad fuelled hopes of an nouement with Nadella sucaggressive attempt at ceeding him as Microsoft’s Satya Nadella countering the growing inthird CEO in its 39 year history. Will this change of guard work in the sluggish company’s fluence of the likes of Google, Facebook and Apple Inc. to favour? a certain extent. The challenge now is to complement For starters, Nadella’s appointment certainly marks a sound hardware manufacturing capabilities with a rugged discernible change in Microsoft’s leadership strategy. The and yet fluid software framework. All this requires the marketing genius of Steve Ballmer – a catalyst responsible investment and allocation of significant monetary and for much of the company’s early success – will now be non-monetary resources. Nadella’s job will be to strike a replaced by the calm and collected Nadella’s technical balance between stabilising precarious businesses whilst brilliance at the top. This may be a harbinger of a plausible ramping up support to high performing SBUs such as the return to its halcyon days of breakthrough innovation that Xbox and cloud computing divisions. set the pace almost two decades ago. There are many who believe that With the company having fallen bea change in leadership at this critical hind newer rivals, Microsoft can ill juncture may just breathe new life afford to cede more ground if it is to into an increasingly monolithic create an enduring competitive adorganisation that has struggled to vantage. Having burnt its fingers with remain nimble and responsive to the spectacular failure of its Windows change. Steve Ballmer’s outright, 8 Operating System, coupled with the overbearing and outgoing style may moderate success of its Surface tabhave propelled Microsoft to one time lets and other associated applications; Silicon Valley greatness, but it cerMicrosoft has now bet its future along tainly isn’t what “the Engineer ora new track; and this is where Satya dered“; as the company negotiates a Nadella’s experience and expertise critical bend in the “technology road“. may become a critical factor. Perhaps Satya Nadella is exactly who Rapidly morphing consumer Microsoft needs…or perhaps not. sensibilities and shortening product Only time will tell. life cycles in an industry that swears One thing is for sure though. The by innovation and turns its back at new CEO certainly means business obsolescence, have necessitated and this could be ascertained when Microsoft’s shift in focus from licensed he prudently said, “Our industry does software to mobile telephony, cloud not reward tradition. It rewards innocomputing and allied services. The vation.” Brace yourselves, for a fact that Nadella has spearheaded Microsoft storm may just be coming! most of Microsoft’s cloud computing and enterprise solution businesses Courtesy: Youth-ki-aawaz by Pradyut Hande
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17 February 2014
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‘Thought for the week’
Do not complain about others. Change yourself if you want peace. It is easier to protect our feet with shoes than to carpet the earth.
Contents
pg. 2 - What Satya Nandella ... pg. 3 - Report Claims Catholics Reject Church Teachings On Sex And Marriage pg 4 - Reader's Views pg. 5 - Views on News pg. 6 - Pope Francis - Reformist or Revolutionary? pg 8 - What If Modi Becomes Indian Premier? pg 15 - Can Indian Bishops ... pg 17 - Say Bye Bye To Reading Glasses! pg 18 - During The Divorce Process pg 19 - Inspiration! pg 20 - Matrimonials pg. 22 - The Virgin Mary, Icon Of Catholic Womanhood
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Report Claims Catholics Reject Church Teachings On Sex And Marriage
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ermany's Catholic bishops, responding to a worldwide Vatican sur vey, said recently that many Church teachings on sexual morality were either unknown to the faithful there or rejected as unrealistic and heartless. They said the survey, drawn up for a synod on possible reforms in October, showed most German Catholics disputed Church bans on birth control and premarital or gay sex and criticized rules barring the divorced from remarriage in church. The results will not be news to many Catholics, especially in affluent Western countries, but the blunt official admission of this wide gap between policy and practice is uncommon and bound to raise pressure on Pope Francis to introduce reforms. Bishops in Germany, one of the richest and most influential national churches in the 1.2-billion-strong Catholic world, have been pressing the Vatican to reform, especially over divorce. A statement from the German bishops conference called the results "a sober inventory of what German Catholics appreciate about Church teaching on marriage and the family and what they find offputting or unacceptable, either mostly or completely." Since his election last March, Pope Francis has hinted at possible reform on divorce and at a more welcoming approach to homosexuals. But he has stressed he does not want to change core Church teachings such as the ban on women priests. The bishops' report said many Germans still respect the Church's ideal of stable marriages and a happy family life. "The Church's statements on premarital sexual relations, homosexuality, on those divorced and remarried, and on birth control, by contrast, are virtually never accepted, or are expressly rejected in the vast majority of cases," it said. "Almost all couples who wish to marry in church have already been living together," it said. Less than three percent of Catholic couples, it said, use the rhythm method of birth control favored by the Church rather than the pill, condom or other methods. While almost all German Catholics approved artificial birth control, the "vast majority are against abortion", it added.
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Miraculous Healings At Lourdes Much has been heard , said, and read about the miraculous healings at Lourdes. But, if seeing is believing , then one needs to visit this shrine during one’s lifetime to witness something out of this world and the faith and devotion of millions of pilgrims who throng the shrine for healings and cures ,unlike the ‘tamasha’ witnessed at televised healings by self-styled healers. However, there is a popular belief among pilgrims that healings and cures take place at the shrine only after drinking and bathing in the Lourdes spring waters, because of its special medicinal properties .This is a mistaken notion which needs to be dispelled from the minds of the pilgrims. Public announcements are therefore made at the shrine that the spring water at Lourdes is no different from any other natural spring water, and that one is healed only because of one’s faith. Wasn’t Jairus’ daughter and the woman who was bleeding for 12 years healed by Jesus because of their faith ? ( Luke, 48, 50).
—A. F. Nazareth, Alto Porvorim.
Live-in-relationship This has reference to the write up " Looking Beyond Article 377 " by L.L.D' Souza (S. C. 13 January ). One cannot say the legal aspect pronounced by the Supreme Court that the " live in relationship" is neither a crime nor a sin, is wrong. Though I cannot admit
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that it is "right", it is difficult to say that it is unpatriotic or immoral. As a Christian my opinion is that such relationships must be discouraged on account of the following reasons 1 This kind of relationships is nothing but wholetime occasion for temptations. We are told that occasions that cause temptations must be avoided so that we can avoid sin. 2. Our Indian culture is generally not in favour of pre-marital sex and in view of the possibility of sexual encounters in such fellowships ,there is a public disapproval for the same 3. Though the Court says such relationships are not illegal,its repurcussions involving legality of children, property, length of relationship, the consequence of abandonment of relationship etc etc are very serious . Ultimately there will be a society that never need to recognize father and mother. Per-
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missiveness will inrease, morality will become loose The couples who prefer such relationship seem to be those who do not like the traditional concept or rituals or parental approval.In all such cases the couples can register their relationship ( the common parlance is known by the word "marriage" ) They are at liberty to divorce later, if they choose so according to the existing rules. In any situation we have to abide by rules which are made for the common good. Ladislaus is right to think that the Church should express its opinion and teaching on the subject when an occasion arose. In the western countries where such relationships exist,most of the catholic partners abandon the religion and do not pass on the faith to children.We hope our learned Bishops will bring out the Church teachings on the subject for the information and guidance of Catholics. —K. C.Thomas
WHAT IS FREEHOLD PROPERTY?
Freehold property can be defined as any estate which is "free from hold" of any entity besides the owner. Hence, the owner of such an estate enjoys free ownership for perpetuity and can use the land for any purposes however in accordance with the local regulations. Sale of a freehold property does not require consent from the state and hence requires less paperwork, thus, making it more expensive than leasehold property. Free hold property is inheritable and there are no restrictions on the right of the property owner to further transfer the property. In a free hold property, there is no encumbrance to the absolute title of the property. A free hold is not similar to a cooperative wherein the owner of the individual unit pays a maintenance charge.
17 February 2014
Christian Girl Abducted, Converted And Forced To Marry A Muslim In Lahore Lahore: After a Pakistani Christian girl from Lahore (Punjab) was abducted by a Muslim landowner, she was forced to marry him after conversion to Islam. Her family reacted in a public protest, demanding justice from civil authorities. Police and the courts have failed so far to act and return the girl to her parents. The local Catholic Church has instead backed the family, condemning the "widespread practice" of kidnapping young Christian and Hindu women to marry them forcibly to Muslims and reduce them to a "state of slavery". The latest episode involves a 16year-old girl, Samariya Nadeem (Masih), who was abducted and forcibly married to a rich landowner. The abduction took place 22 days ago in Lahore's 270-TDA Layyah District when the young woman was on her way to school. The family filed a complaint (First Information Report 14/14, under Section 365 B of the Penal Code) with the police for the abduction reporting that Samariya was taken against her will and forced to marry the man. So far, police have failed to pursue any legal action against the local wealthy Muslim landowner who abducted the girl because of the influence he wields. Police investigators were also unable to talk to the bruised and terrified victim. Anonymous police sources confirmed that the girl was "abducted" and forced to marry. However, an Islamic cleric involved in the affair said that it was "not illegal to abduct and convert non-Muslims". This morning, the family organised a protest rally in front of the Lahore Press Club. Under Pakistani law, no one underage can be married without parental consent. Civil society groups and human rights activists have appealed to Punjab's chief minister to take action and return Samariya to her parents and bring her abductor to justice. Kidnapping and forced marriage
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have become a major issue in Pakistan, especially in southern Punjab and in the interior of Sindh province. This is "very common in the region," said Fr Haroon James, a priest and activist in Lahore. Young women and girls "are forcefully converted and married to influential landlords who keep them as slaves." Unfortunately, people seem to be increasingly "hopeless". For this reason, the Church has spoken out in the case, "demanding justice for her and the family." Yet, "Despite the fact that a FIR has been registered, the authorities have failed to act and protect the vulnerable," the priest added. With a population of more than 180 million people (97 per cent Muslim), Pakistan is the sixth most populous country in the world, the second largest Muslim nation after Indonesia. About 80 per cent of Muslims are Sunni, whilst Shias are 20 per cent. Hindus are 1.85 per cent, followed by Christians (1.6 per cent) and Sikhs (0.04 per cent). Violence against ethnic and religious minorities is commonplace across the country, with Shia Muslims and Christians as the main target, with things getting worse. Dozens incidents of violence have occurred in recent years, against individuals or entire communities, like in Gojra in 2009 or Joseph Colony in Lahore in March 2013, often perpetrated under the pretext of the country's blasphemy laws. —AsiaNews
Orthodox Bishops Meet Modi In Kerala
Kochi: Two senior bishops of the Malanakara Orthodox church on Sunday called on BJP leader Narendra Modi, who arrived in Kerala for addressing public meetings here and in the state capital. Talking to reporters after the meeting here, Metropolitan Mar Athanasios of Chengannur diocese, lauded Modi's development initiatives in Gujarat but clarified that the call was 'personal and not official'. Metropolitan Geeverghese Mar Ulios of Ahmedabad diocese of the church was also present at the meeting at the government guest house. When reporters sought to know how he visualized a scenario of Modi becoming Prime Minister, Mar Athanasios remarked, "I will be glad if that happens." "We mostly discussed the development initiatives in Gujarat," Mar Athanasios, who had earlier headed the Ahmedabad diocese of the church, said. He said the meeting was not the result of any official direction from the church. Though BJP leaders in Kerala had earlier claimed that representatives of other churches would also call on Modi, none from any other denomination visited him.
Quotations 1. Peace begins with a smile. If you judge people, you have no time to love them. — Mother Teresa 2. Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves. — Abraham Lincoln Comp: Jubel D'Cruz, Dombivili
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Pope Francis
Reformist or Revolutionary?
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ope Francis has been in the news from the day he was en throned in St. Peter’s Chair. His simple living, quick decisions on governance, pronouncements on a number of vexed issues concerning the Catholic Church and world at large has made him a Pope with a difference. Many publications have declared him ‘person of the year’ 2013. Times of India bestowed on him the title ‘Peoples Pope’. Very recently he has been acclaimed a super Pope. He has raised expectations for radical reforms or a revolution in the Catholic Church as pointed out by Dr. John C. King of Canada. He opted to discard the pomp and style of the earlier popes by stating “too many previous popes in the Churches’ long history had been narcissists, who let themselves be flattered by their courtiers”. The hierarchy in the church down from the Pope is expected to emulate his simplicity and humility. This however is a tall order to the clergy, majority who live in the high comfort zone. The top layer of the hierarchy, to use Pope Francis’ words have a ‘princely psychology’ and ‘ bourgeoisie style of life’. For a positive change in the Church, Pope Francis may require to break many well entrenched but almost meaningless and outdated practises and traditions. Such actions may very well be justified as Jesus himself broke many Jewish traditions by saying ‘Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath’. (Mark 2-27) To have a ‘poor church for the poor people’, instead of the existing monarchic and feudal church, first and foremost it should give up regal and honourable titles. The Pope, instead of being addressed as Holy Father, can only be addressed as Pope (name). Historically, we had enough number of popes who were anything but holy. Cardinals, archbishops, bishops may also be addressed without the
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prefixes such as His eminence, His grace and His lordship. It is pertinent to note that the President of India, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee has directed offi-
A . D. Mascarenhas
cials drop the prefix ‘His Excellency’. Pope Francis has also expressed his displeasure about the over dressing by the clergy. He has avoided some of the paraphernalia which was a part and parcel of the papal dress. If the Church wants to be a true religious order, its religious leaders do not require a crown, mitre, ring and staff which are all replica of European royalty, making the Church a kingdom, based on a feudal structure. If the Church wants to be democratic and more inclusive, it should be more of a religious organisation as against the existing and commercial set up. Re-
forms are inevitable in the management of money and property of the Church. Certain steps are already being taken in the management of Vatican Bank. For the proper use of money and property at the Parish level, the single trusteeship should be abolished wherever in existence. Many parishes shielded by single trusteeship, treat and manage their parishes as their personal fiefdom. Administration and dealings of property and money must be as per the law of the land and not by the Canon law. An example was set by Pope Francis, where clergy and lay people were subject to the law other than Canon law, while dealing with leaks of Vatican information and other crimes, specifically sexual violence, prostitution and child pornography. Recently on being accused by UN Committee, for protecting paedophile priests, Vatican ar(Contd.. on p. 7)
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(Contd.. from p. 6) gued that it has no jurisdiction on such matters and it was for the local law to deal with such cases. Therefore by the same argument, the Church should apply Canon law only to religious matters and leave all others to be dealt by the local law. Now, the UN is asking the Church to hand over the guilty priests to civilian authorities. Besides, Vatican should ensure ‘transparency and honesty’ – the two qualities, Pope Francis emphasised on – in all the dealings carried out by the priests down to local/ parish level. Priests found guilty of sex abuse, corruption, mismanagement of money and property, alcoholism and misbehaviour must be met with appropriate punishment, (including defrocking) without delay. Parents should be allowed to decide the size of their family as long as they do not resort to eliminating life. Prevention of conception should not be considered sinful. As it is, a vast majority of Catholics do plan the size of their families. Abortion should be allowed on medical grounds so that we need not have a case similar to Savita Halappanavar in Ireland, be repeated.
... Cardinals, archbishops, bishops may also be addressed without the prefixes such as His eminence, His grace and His lordship. It is pertinent to note that the President of India, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee has directed officials drop the prefix ‘His Excellency’...
Giving up papal infallibility. It has no biblical foundation. To strengthen papal authority, it was invoked by some popes, including Pope Gregory VII and was solemnly declared in Vatican 1 on July 18th, 1870. In an interview to La Civilta Cattolica, Pope Francis described himself a sinner. By saying so he accepts his frailties and limitations, despite being a Pope. It is therefore logical and natural not to be infallible, even when he (Pope) speaks, ex-cathedra. Pope John XXIII, talking on the subject of infallibility said, “I’m only infallible, if I speak infallibly, but I shall never do that, so I am not infallible”. In 1882,
17 February 2014
O
Celibacy for priests should be made optional. We can have married priests, living outside the parish campus but paid a regular salary. Finally, we may have only married priests, who have a better understanding of both, spiritual and secular aspects of life.
O
With the above mentioned and by introducing some more radical changes, Pope Francis will go down in history as the ‘revolutionary Pope’. As the papal biographer, George Weigete , wrote, “ I think we can expect the new Pope to lead the church in a purification and renewal of the Episcopate, the priesthood, the religious life and the curia because, he understands that scandal, corruption and incompetence are impediments to the mission of spreading faith”.
O
Pope Francis’ thoughts on certain changes are already brought out in his apostolic exhortation “Evanglii Gaudium”. (2013).
O
Finally, are the Pope’s newly appointed advisors (cardinals) and the top hierarchy, open to these changes or would they become the new ‘courtiers’? The top hierarchy is itself surrounded by their own courtiers (advisors), with their vested interests. Other than Pope Francis, how many in the clergy, are willing to give up the existing structure supported by tradition and other practices, which help them retain the present political and commercial nature of the church instead of embracing a ‘poor church for the poor people’. It will be resisted by a majority of the clergy because in Pope Francis’ vision of the Catholic Church, they have everything to lose but nothing to gain
Bishop Baine, declared, “in England and Ireland, I do not believe that any catholic maintains the infallibility of the Pope”. O
There may be a revolution in the Catholic church if Pope Francis considers the following : O
vincing reasons for denying priesthood to women.
O
Confession, one of the seven sacraments of the Church, can be modified and be made, counselling, for those who are in need of it. Many Catholics throughout the world do not fulfil the obligation of confession. Besides there are those who think that through confession every sin is forgiven and therefore rush for confession to unburden themselves even from civil and criminal offences. Such offences are dealt by civil and criminal law and punished. The church therefore should not have any problem in changing its own commandment especially when it has lost the relevance. Confession is a sacrament of reconciliation to obtain internal grace by penitents which can be acquired through direct confession/communication with God. Women priesthood is so far ruled out by the Church, but is a widely and seriously discussed issue. According to the Bible commentators, Christ breaking the Jewish traditions, accepted women as his disciples. Those who oppose may put forward arguments by twisting Biblical statements and through hair-splitting theological interpretations. There however are no con-
Prof. A. D. Mascarenhas is a former Principal and Dean of St. Andrew's College, Bandra West., Mumbai.
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What If Modi Becomes Indian Premier?
BY FR. CEDRIC PRAKASH SJ s a Christian and particularly a The fact is that foreign direct inthe petitioner Zakhia Jafri being given Jesuit priest, I take stands and vestment in Gujarat has taken a severe leave by Ahmadabad magistrates to believe that while being open to beating in the last few years and even question the merits of the SIT report in dialogue and reason, one has to be local investment is far below what is a higher court. unequivocal about what one stands being flaunted. Regarding social indiRaju Ramchandran, appointed by for. So, I take a stand against politicians cators, Gujarat fares poorly. the Supreme Court as amicus curiae or political parties that are sectarian, A UNICEF report published in for many of the Gujarat riot cases, ascorrupt, casteist and above all serts that there is enough those who indulge in the evidence to prosecute Modi criminalization of society. on several counts with reI do not espouse any political gard to the violence in 2002, party. All have their own drawin which more than 1,000 backs. A reality check would show people died. that each one has failed the people Modi has neither of India in some way or another, shown any remorse nor especially the poor and the taken responsibility for the marginalized, either because of killing of innocent people their particular ideology or beunder his watch. The least a cause they have catered to a parchief minister could have ticular class or caste. been expected to do was to All this brings to mind the enforce law and order and powerful words of Pope Francis in ... Even now, police and intelligence officers protect the life and property his Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii of every citizen in his state. constantly visit Christian institutions and ChrisGaudium (The Joy of the Gospel) That he ignored this responin which he condemns “the tians in general, making all kinds of inquiries sibility, there is no doubt economy of exclusion and inequal- and demanding to check baptism registers and among many. That he has ity� and “a financial system which denigrated minorities has other records... rules rather than serves�. been documented by the We have to accept that genuprint and the electronic media. ine fears and anxieties exist about 2013 says social development in the Narrndra Modi, the pro-Hindu Bharatiya state has not kept pace with economic Janata Party’s (BJP) prime ministerial development; almost every second Myth 3: Modi has “made up� candidate and three-time chief minis- child in Gujarat under five years old is with the minorities There are some claiming to be ter of Gujarat becoming prime minis- undernourished, while three quarters ter, after the general election due in are anemic. May. However let me clarify some mat- Myth 2: The Gujarat carnage is ters about Modi and his rule in Gujarat. a thing of the past and Modi
A
Myth 1: Modi is a development man This cannot be further from the truth. Gujarat has always been a developed state from the time it was carved out of Bombay state in 1960. Economic indicators clearly show that Gujarat under Modi has been ‘worse off’ than under previous governments (even the BJP one before him).
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has been given a “clean chit� Many believe the courts exonerated Modi of involvement in the Gujarat anti-Muslim riots in 2002. The hard facts are, however, very different. First of all, no court has given Modi a clean chit. True, there is a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report that says there is not enough evidence against Modi. But this has been challenged, with
17 February 2014
representatives of minority Christian and Muslim communities who sing Modi’s praises. A careful analysis indicates these people have vested interests, especially in business, and are not really interested in their community or what is happening to minorities in the country. In 2003 Modi introduced an anti-conversion law and established rules to govern the implementation of this law in 2008. It is perhaps one of the most draconian laws in the history of democratic India. It forbids a citizen from converting to another faith unless she/ he has permission from civil authorities. Even now, police and intelligence officers constantly visit Christian institutions and Christians in general, making all kinds of inquiries and demanding to check baptism registers and other records.
Myth 4: Modi is not corrupt In May 2012, anti-corruption campaigners Anna Hazare and Arvind Kejriwal visited Gujarat. They came away declaring it the most corrupt state in the country. Why they have not continued to highlight corruption in Gujarat is anyone’s guess. Several years ago, the Tata Motor Company was allowed to establish a plant to build the “world's cheapest car” in Gujarat with surprising ease, flouting every rule in the book and even the state's industrial policy. It is alleged that the Adani Company controls the price of compressed natural gas, amassing huge profits. In addition, the role of the Ambanis in mega projects in Gujarat is being questioned. The way environmental laws are flouted and the terrible ecological degradation that is taking place all over the state, all point to the fact that corruption is alive and kicking in Gujarat. Another indicator is the way land has been handed to big corporations, displacing thousands of small farmers across the state. There have been huge protest rallies, but they were not covered by a media, which by and large seems to have been muzzled in Gujarat. These four myths provide an insight into the grim reality in Gujarat under the leadership of Modi. No one really knows if he will become prime minister. But India deserves better leaders. Indian politics revolves around regional parties. As of now, the BJP has practically no allies from several states. Most regional parties are obviously waiting to see which party will emerge as the single largest party in the 2014 elections. Fr Cedric Prakash SJ is the director of PRASHANT, the Ahmedabad-based Jesuit Centre for Human Rights, Justice and Peace. Source: ucanews
17 February 2014
85 Richest People Have Same Wealth As 3.5 Billion Poorest
The richest 85 people in the world are as wealthy as the poorest half of the worlds population according to a report called “Working for the Few,” just released by the human rights group Oxfam. Oxfam released the study on global inequality late last month just before a meeting of government and business leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The report states that almost half of the world’s wealth is owned by just one percent of the population. The report also said wealthy elites have used their political power to get lower tax rates, hide wealth offshore, and serve their own interests, at the expense of those from lower income brackets. They keep the wealth concentrated in the hands of a few and they make sure it’s there for the next generation. Meanwhile in African global corporations, they use their political influence to avoid taxes which lessens the government’s ability to fight poverty. Oxfam called on business and government leaders attending the World Economic Forum to support government programs that are helping underserved middle and lower classes, support fair wages and crack down on tax dodging and financial secrecy. Roughly two thirds of those polled by Oxfam believe the rich have too much influence over the direction their countries. Researchers said it was likely that the full concentration of wealth is unknown with esti-
mates claiming more than $11 trillion is held unreported and offshore. Seven out of every 10 people live in countries where inequality has increased since the 1980’s and tax rates for the rich have fallen in 29 out of 30 countries where information is available, the report said. Between 1980 and 2012, the wealthiest 1 percent increased their share of the world’s wealth in 24 of the 26 countries Oxfam surveyed. According to Oxfam, their concern is “not just that half of the world’s population could be bought and sold by a group of individuals who could fit into a large boardroom.” It’s that “this staggering disparity creates a vicious cycle.” The document also focuses on the impact of this increasing wealth disparity has on human progress. A total of 210 people became billionaires last year, joining the existing 1,426 billionaires with a combined reported worth of $5.4 trillion. And the number of the rich is continuing to grow like in India the number of billionaires went from six to 61 in the past 10 years, and their combined net worth is currently $250 billion. Also according to Oxfam, the richest 1 percent of people in the world have $110 trillion, or 65 times the total wealth of the bottom half of the worlds population. “Instead of moving forward together, people are increasingly separated by economic and political power, inevitably heightening social tensions and increasing the risk of societal breakdown,” the report said.
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Legionaries Of Christ Serious Violation of Pandita Ramabai's Mukti Mission in Pune Officially Denounce Founder Maciel by Government Authorities
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erious violation of minority in Pandita Ramabai’s 125 year old Mukti Mission in Pune has been reported with the Highways Department of both Govt. of India & Govt. of Maharashtra wanting to lay a highway through this institution. The Mukti Mission is a home for destitute women and children, which takes care of abandoned children mostly with physical, mental and visual defects. There are now over 600 inmates who are completely cared for, with a School, a Hospital, a Church, a Dairy and Agricultural sections, along with a major Vocational Training center. This Mission was started by Pandita Ramabai in 1889 who was one of the pioneers to have saved many women from the widow burning ritual of Sati which was prevalent then. Ramabai is credited as India’s first woman social reformer to work to uplift women’s social status. She is probably one of the first in India to have introduced the Kindergarten system of education and to have used Braille to educate blind children. The Mission campus is about 150 acres, located in Kedgaon near Pune, Maharashtra. This vibrant organization has been a beacon of hope and rescue for several thousands of people who had been abandoned and were then rehabilitated into society. The organization is a private charitable trust which is dedicated to care for the outcasts of society. The Govt. of India released a postage stamp in 1989 in honor of Pandita Ramabai to commemorate 100 years of the Mukti Mission. In its 125 years of service, many committed individuals have dedicated their entire lives to serve the organization and its ongoing activities and the great work carries on. Many children from Mukti Mission have gone on to become useful and effective members of society.
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Now the Maharashtra PWD and the Union Department for highways are planning to make a new highway right through this Ashram. No explanation has been given . The historic building, hospital and church are marked for demolition. A notice was received by the Mission in May 2011 stating that the highway running in front of the property would be widened, without mentioning either the exact part of the land that would be affected, or the extent of appropriation. Many requests for explanation were made, but the authorities did not reply. They have not followed any standard legal procedure. Even now, it is not clear as to what is actually going to happen, as the Mission administrators are desperately trying to clarify matters with the authorities who have not been forthcoming in giving precise information. The Collector Mr. Vikas Deshmukh has been informed.
ACTION TO BE TAKEN: Kindly call for an immediate halt to this project. The Mukthi Mission should be protected at all costs. Christian minority will not only protest but vehemently oppose this attempt of sacrilege by the Union and the State Governments. No high way should be permitted to go through the property which easily can be avoided. —Joseph Dias, CSF
Italy: A disgraced Catholic religious order whose late founder lived a double life as a paedophile, womanizer and drug addict officially denounced him on Thursday and apologized to his "many victims". The Legionaries of Christ, which former members said was run like a cult rooted in secrecy, accused Father Marcial Maciel of "reprehensible and objectively immoral behavior" as head of the order from 1941 until former Pope Benedict removed him in 2006. Once a darling of the Vatican because it attracted many Catholics to religious vocations and made sizeable financial donations to the Church, the order has been in Vatican receivership since 2010 and came close to being disbanded. The apology, issued by delegates from around the world meeting in Rome to set a new direction for the order, came a day after a United Nations committee singled it out in a scathing report accusing the Church of ignoring child abuse by priests. The statement denounced "the magnitude of the evil and scandal caused" by Maciel, who died in 2008, and said the conservative order was now ready to turn a page. The meeting, which began on January 8 and is due to end in late February, elected Father Eduardo Robles Gil as the order's new leader. Like Maciel, the 61-year-old hails from Mexico. "We want to express our deep sorrow for the abuse of minor seminarians, the immoral acts with men and women who were adults, the arbitrary use of his authority and of material goods ..." the order said. Source: Reuters
17 February 2014
Family Retreat at St. Joseph Church, Mira Road
February7th-9th:MiraRoad: With the theme ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand’, Fr Augustine Vallooran, director, Divine Retreat Centre, Potta and his team preached three days retreat at St. Joseph Church grounds, Mira Road. More than 8,000 people from different parishes participated in the retreat to praise the Lord and feel his presence. Fr Augustine Vallooran and his team led the faithful with praise, thanksgiving, sharing and adoration. It was a
nessed divine graces through healing sessions after the confessions. At the end of the retreat Fr. Dominic thanked Fr. Vallooran and team as well as all the organizers for making this retreat an enriching one for all the participants. spiritual nourishment which delighted every participant. The Church ground was jam-packed and many had to remain in the church and hall but the spirit bound them together in unison to proclaim together that Jesus is Immanuel – God with us. Many people wit-
Asia's Biggest Christian Convention Begins In Kerala
Maramon: Asia's biggest Christian convention got underway here Sunday with Philipose Mar Chrysostum, senior metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church, leading the opening worship.
17 February 2014
The 119th edition of the weeklong meet, called Maramon Convention and organised by the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association, got under-
way on the river bed of Pampa here. Maramon is on the banks of the Pampa river, about 20 km from Thiruvalla. The convention takes place on the river bed under a sprawling temporary shed, made of coconut leaves, which will seat about a lakh of people. The Mar Thoma community has nearly a million believers and for any devout Mar Thomaite, a visit to the convention is a must. Christians from other denominations also attend the congregation. Each day will have three separate sessions for women and men and a series of prayer and devotional music sessions. A large number of Kerala politicians also attend the convention. With Lok Sabha polls around the corner, a huge influx of politicians is expected this year. Union Minister Sashi Tharoor, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J.Kurien (who belongs to the Mar Thoma church) and state Water Resources Minister P.J. Joseph were present at the inaugural session. —IANS
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Thanks to Sacred Heart of Jesus & St. Jude for the favours granted
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, loved, glorified & praised throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Thy kingdom come. St. Jude worker of miracles pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless pray for us. Amen, Say this prayer nine times a day
—Mr. Pascal R. Crasta, Bangalore
O holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and Charity for his creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the Saint of Miracles. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. —Mrs Philomena W. D'Souza, U.A. E.
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for nine days.
— Maria Fernandes, Goa
Our lady of Vailankanni Cured me as I was suffering from a deseases for sometime. I thank her for the favour granted. —C. N. E. Chennai
Heartfelt Thanks to Divine Mercy, Our Lady of Vailankani, Our Lady of perpectual Succor and St. Anthony for the favours received. Praying for more favours. —Ms Falvia Robert Fernandes, Navi Mumbai
17 February 2014
Can Indian Bishops Become Aam Aadmi Shepherds Imitating Pope Francis? (Contd. from last edition....)
Ordinaries with Small “o”
Technically and canonically, Bishops are known as “Ordinaries” ” and “Servants of Servants” with capital “O” and “S”. It costs far less to become real ordinaries and servants like the rest of us with “o” and “s:” in the lower case. Bishops would then become more Jesus-like who started off his life from a cattle shed. He had no place to lay his head, walked the dusty roads of Palestine dressed like any other Jew though he bitterly criticized the “long tussles” of High priests of his time. The famous Limousine he borrowed for his triumphal entry into Jerusalem was an Ass and his final crown a ring of thorns, his burial place a borrowed tomb. Our Bishops could further add: “Call us instead Brother Cardinal, Brother Archbishop, Brother Bishop or Brother Priest only,” since imitating a Barack Obama called “Mr. President” may look too secular for a religious Indian culture. This is what Kejriwal did when he give up security and Lal Batti culture and won the hearts of the whole nation instantly, nay the whole world. Why? Because what makes more sense for the country bred ordinary people with little or no education is semblance than substance, being carried away as they are, more by outward appearances. The signs and symbols and body language of leaders who readily mix with them, sit with them, walk with them, listen to them and talk to them from the heart not from the head capture their hearts. Studied speeches delivered with eloquence from distant public podiums will make no sense to them. That is what Pappa Francis means when he says that Bishops should have the “Smell of the Sheep” which they cannot have if they are “Airport-Port Bishops” more in the air than on earth in their dioceses among their flock. Francis became an aam aadmi at one shot when he described himself: “I am a Sinner”. How much more could he belittle or humiliate himself before the whole world? He went on further to say:
17 February 2014
it is human not only to make mistakes but even to commit sins, to equate himself or empathize with frail humans. He calls up letter writers of different hue. Tells a pregnant deserted lady, he would baptize her baby when borne, tells a youngster in distress to call him “tu” in the singular to make him feel easy and equal in his company, lives in community in common apartment, serves tea for himself and even for the guard at his door, while travelling carries own handbag and queues up to board a plane, delights to visit drug infested slums. Still the wonder is, he is not yet accused of being a “friend of drunkards and prostitutes or insane” as Jesus his Master was accused of in His time. In short humility, simplicity, equality, approachability availability and closeness to the poor (aam aadmi) always with a smiling face everywhere are the hallmarks of his papacy, all of which call for imitation, not imposition, by Bishops in India and world over. But it looks Pope’s example has created ripples and responses more outside than inside the Catholic Church. Archbishop Mar Kurillos of Jacobite Church of Thiruvalla, Kerala, in his pastoral letter read in all churches said that the church should say goodbye to gold and silver crosses, flag posts, fire works etc. imitating the simplicity of Pope Francis, according to reports. Similarly in the secular domain AAP’s popularity with India’s poor has prompted even rival parties like Congress and BJP to imitate Kejriwal’s example. But none of these seems to have made an impact on the pompous, hierarchical life style in the Catholic Church. This is a serious point for the consideration of the CBCI in Palai.
Church Citizens, not Laity
Besides even ahead of the Palai CBCI meet people from different quarters including the second International telephone conference of Syromalabar Church (SMC) citizens (Laity) held on Jan. 24th have raised several pertinent questions and objections to the meet. The common people in the SMC now
call themselves “Church Citizens,” since the word “laity” has become obsolete and fraught with various pejorative connotations and insinuations pointing to their lowest status in the Catholic hierarchical ladder, similar to Sudras in Indian Caste system. The low castes are considered good only to be ordered about because of their assumed ignorance, illiteracy, incompetence and slavish attitudes. Being called, Church citizens puts the laity on par with bishops, cardinals and Pope. That is what Francis wants them to be. So they ask why they are not part of the Biennial Assembly of the Church in India in Palai. Francis had said it explicitly: the Church should be a communion of all believers — Pope, Bishops and all the faithful. Thinking with the church does not mean thinking with bishops. Infallibility of the church is vested in the whole church, thinking and acting alike in mind and heart. It was to find out the heart beats of ordinary folks on challenges the family faces today that Francis ordered last October an opinion poll at parish level, which is in progress in many countries but not even announced in India. The role of Bishops is that of elected political representatives, to work as servants, not masters. The faithful are the masters, as “We the people” are masters in Indian Democracy. Left to themselves Bishops are like generals who are nothing and can do nothing without the army. So the present gathering of Bishops alone in Palai is a non starter as the assembly of the Church since the laity is and was already acknowledged to be, not only “in the forefront of the church but of being the Church” itself long ago by Pope Pius XII, and confirmed recently by Vatican II. The second moot question is the theme of the CBCI meet reported as: “Reformed Church Reforming Society”. The phrase “Reformed Church” reminds one of the prayer of the Pharisee in the temple. It is an insult to the intentions, intelligence and explicit statement of Vatican II which says unequivocally that (Contd.. on p. 16)
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(Contd.. from p. 15) the Church is and has to be always in dire need of reform (Semper Reformanda is the phrase used). So the theme is a nonstarter too. First the church has to put its own house in order before thinking of the society outside which is ahead of the church, by 200 years as observed by late cardinal of Milan, in thinking, dialoguing, discussing through teleconferences and taking joint decisions fast using modern technologies of communication.
Ideal Reformed Church
Journey towards the ideal reformed church is going to be a very tedious long, long, thousand times long journey to the roots of Christianity, to those utopian apostolic times when they had everything in common. In those days each one worked according to his capacities and got according to his needs and therefore no one was in need or want in the community. It was the beginning of Christian Communism, when all did what they said: “All that is mine is yours” unlike present day communists who say: “All that is yours is mine,” as stated by famous Bishop Fulton J. Sheen of revered memory. In such a Church the present day spiritual leaders – Bishops and priests or the so-called clergy – would confine themselves to prayer, preaching and moral guidance only without fear or favour
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(Contemplata tradere = handing over what they absorbed through contemplation) and never touch money to fight the “Idolatry of Money” in Francis’ words. Money matters to take care of the material needs of the poor, orphans and widows would instead be handled by seven or more honest experts prayed over and chosen, as it used to be in the Apostolic Church. At present we can only prayerfully dream of, and hope against hope that this utopia comes true one day. Only none of us alive today may live to see it happen.
Spreading Good News or Rite?
Two other moot questions pestering the Indian Church and SMC in particular are: 1. The Rite question. 2. Defining the concept of evangelisation. Both need elaborate discussion, not possible here. As for Rites, any Rite is all right, but the craze for promoting one’s own Rite is disastrous, as bad as creating divisions untold in the place of unity of all followers dreamt of and prayed for by Jesus. It is as bad as promoting religious colonies and territorial out posts and safe zones as the be-all and end-all of all Rites forgetting Jesus’ words: ”My kingdom is not of this world.” It is on the same footing as the universally accepted scandal called: “Divided Churches”, diametrically opposed to the will and prayer of Jesus who built no church of brick and mortar but predicted the downfall of their only Jerusalem temple built by human hands, as a forewarning to temples yet to be built by brick and mortar. To replace it he also predicted: “Destroy this temple; I will replace it in three days.” He did it with his resurrection and all through life he was busy building and repairing, not divisive immovable temples, but living, walking temples of flesh and blood – healing the sick, blind, lame, paralyzed, raising the dead, feeding the hungry, comforting the afflicted, oppressed and outcast. They belonged to all sections of humanity, but hardly to his own Jewish blood group which today is promoted under the guise of Community, Patriarchy, Rite etc. After Syromalabar and Syromalankara, we may now have to invent new names like Syro-Knana, Syro-Americana, SyroAustraliana, and Syro-Euro and all such Syros to finally end up in a Zero-Gulf or watery grave. Personally I can give only
that much importance to Rite question. Secondly what are these divided churches, especially of the CMC variety preoccupied with? Multiplying own brand of parishes, dioceses in all continents — in US, in Australia, in Middle East, in Europe, raising funds in Euro and $ to buy own posh headquarters very near to the power centre in Vatican? In doing this are they spreading the “Odour of Jesus” or the suffocating stench of a particular church-brand, and acting like “I am of Peter,” “I am of Paul”? Is this evangelisation meant to spread the good news of “glory to God in the highest and peace to men of good will” world wide in the fraternal unity of all humans or is it not promoting divisive tendencies, nay divisions within subdivisions endless as in our accursed caste system? These are explosive issues or time bombs, which if not checked in time, are bound to explode smashing to smithereens all tall claims these divisive forces are indulging in as a sport of kite flying. In any case the thinking sections of Church citizens, at least in the SMC in US and Kerala seem to be very much exercised over these issues and are going ahead with or without the bishops, as the latter has refused even to enter into a dialogue with them in spite of their honest efforts over more than one month. So parallel meetings and prayer processions of Church citizens are being planned by a Knanaya group on Feb.7th in Palai demanding ouster of Kottayam Diocese from the Catholic community for practising endogamy (purity of blood) which is against: 1. Teachings of Jesus, 2. Church laws, 3. Human rights and another, a two day seminar in Ernakulam, Feb. 8 - 9 of Church Citizens excluded from the CBCI meet to plan out future strategy including establishing direct hotline with the easily approachable Francis Papa to revive vertical dialogue gone extinct and harmony in place of in-fighting in the SMC. So the coming days are going to be challenging times of prayer, frantic search and honest introspection to find the right path for the growth of true discipleship in Jesus for all church citizens. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dr. James Kottoor, is former editor of The New Leader (Chennai) Catholic Weekly.
17 February 2014
Say Bye Bye To Reading Glasses! India’s first Flexivue eye implant surgery performed to eliminate reading glasses! Completely reversible and implants can be removed: Professor Pallikaris the father of LASIK surgery on his maiden visit to India
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t’s a fact of life. In our 40s and 50s, we begin to experience the natu rally frustrating effects of blurry near vision. Reading the newspaper, mobile texts, ordering off a menu, even grocery shopping becomes a struggle. It is called as presbyopia which is the natural loss of near vision that impacts virtually everyone. Even people who never needed vision correction when they were younger eventually experience presbyopia. It is estimated to affect over 30% of India’s population. In Pune alone, there are estimated more than 10 lac presbyopic individuals. In a unique feat, a noted advanced cataract and laser eye surgery expert, Dr Vardhaman Kankariya, performed India’s first ‘Flexivue eye implant surgery’, an effective new procedure that eliminates the need of reading glasses. Flexivue implant is a bifocal implant, which is smaller and thinner than a contact lens The inlay is placed under the surface of cornea and helps to focus the light coming into eye from both near and far distances, thus it is designed to improve functional near
Professor Pallikaris (‘father’ of very popular ‘LASIK’ procedure), Dr Vardhaman Kankariya (performed India’s first ‘Flexivue eye implant surgery’)
vision and reduce dependency on reading glasses. It is transparent and invisible to the naked eye once implanted. Dr Vardhaman Kankariya’s world-
Technology
What is Flexivue Microlens Implants?
Do you have difficulty reading fine print, have eye strain when reading or does your vision blur when transitioning between near and far distances? If so, you could have a condition called presbyopia. Presbyopia is the normal eye-related loss of the ability to focus on near objects that eventually affects everyone, usually starting in your forties. It affects people who are nearsighted, farsighted and those who had perfect vision most of their lives. This is why most people have to wear reading glasses or multifocal spectacles by the time they are 50 years old. If you want to be less dependent on reading glasses, the new Flexivue Microlens implant might be the solution for you. The Flexivue Microlens is a fast, safe and painless eye laser procedure that will roll back the clock on your ailing vision.
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17 February 2014
renowned mentor and the mind behind the innovative flexivue implant, Professor Ioannis Pallikaris, is in Pune city during the first implantation. Professor Pallikaris is a pioneering eye surgeon and is regarded as the father of very popular LASIK surgery for eyes.
The Flexivue System is a corneal inlay to correct presbyopia Inlay is inserted into a small pocket created in the central cornea with a femtosecond laser. Unlike LASIK surgery, people undergoing the Presbia procedure will have no corneal tissue loss as a little pocket is made by the laser, and the Flexivue Microlens™ is inserted and positioned over the eye.
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During The Divorce Process
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t’s never easy when a marriage or significant relationship ends. What ever the reason for the split—and whether you wanted it or not—the breakup of a relationship can turn your whole world upside down and trigger all sorts of painful and unsettling feelings. But there are plenty of things you can do to get through this difficult time and move on. You can even learn from the experience and grow into a stronger, wiser person. Divorce, the legal process, is emotionally draining. Due to this it can be easy to get lost. For your own sanity, during this troubling time, think of these things.
children involved. Make it about getting a divorce, not about “one upping” your ex. Keep it as simple as possible, do not try to be ahead of your ex in everything. This not a competition. So, don't fall for your attorney's trick when he says that you need to get the house, it is just a gimmick to extend the process and make some money. Save yourself extended emotional stress and money on legal processes.
Let go of the past, stay focused on the future. Staying stuck in the past and constantly thinking about negative things that You had a life before you happened during the marwere married, you will Advice riage clouds your judgment have a life after you get a and keeps you from thinkdivorce. Maintaining a ing rationally. The less you hold “life” during the divorce process onto the past, the less baggage you will enable you to move forward have to take with you into the future. once you have that final decree of divorce in your hands. Don’t lose yourself in the process. Don’t allow the stress of your diYour ex, as badly as you want to get vorce to turn you into someone you away from him, is human. Put some won’t recognize. Stay true to who effort into considering his feelings. you are as a person, hold tight to If he is a decent person, not an your moral beliefs and standards abuser or cheater put some effort and you will find yourself stronger into seeing the divorce from his once you come out the other side of perspective. Showing respect and divorce. consideration is better for you in the long-run and especially if there are
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WHAT IS BAD DEBT EXPENSE? An entry found on a business's income statement that represents the amount of non-collectable accounts receivable that occurs in a given period. In terms of accounting entries, every time an amount increases bad debt expense, an equivalent amount is credited to the business's allowance for bad debts. At times, bad debt occur as a result of a customer being unable to fulfill its obligation to pay an outstanding debt, due to bankruptcy or other financial problems. However, this does not always necessarily mean that the entire amount owed will be written off. Bankruptcy proceedings may be able to provide some recourse and remove some of the bad debt expense.
DO YOU KNOW? Former Bollywood film actress, Shashikala has accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Saviour and has converted herself to Christianity. When Mother Teresa was living, she even worked in her orphanage at Kolkata for a whole month looking after the street children, oldage people, giving them a bath, dressing up their wounds, scrubbing utensils and cleaning and washing the floor. She found Jesus Christ by doing this work and it made her happy. Today, Shashikala lives a happy life praising and thanking Jesus. — Jubel D'Cruz, Dombivili If you find yourself in the presence of a bumblebee, just stand quietly. Once it realizes that you're not a flower, it will move away. A bumble bee will die if it uses its stinger even once. —Jubel D'Cruz, Dombivili
17 February 2014
Inspiration!
Prioritise Work And Then Focus
S
etting most difficult tasks for yourself and attempting many things at once can be overwhelming and may lead to a dip in confidence Are you overburdened with work? Do you take on more assignments than you can handle? Sometimes, in spite of being energetic and motivated, you might fail to meet deadlines and targets. Ironically, this could be due to a general lack of focus. The fact of the matter is that you have too much on your plate and by trying to concentrate on all your projects you are attentive to none.
One at a time Swami Vivekananda once said, “Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life - think of it, dream of it, live on that idea.” These are times of insecurity and with so many things on mind, everyone
17 February 2014
Wi-Fi Threats O An unsecured Wi-Fi is likely to be
vulnerable to many potential attacks from the intruders. O Use
of unsecured Wi-Fi connections in Terrorist Activities.
O A
Wi-Fi network without proper authentication is similar to keeping your house open with all doors unlocked.
O Lack
of proper authentication or connectivity allows any with WiFi enabled device to use your network probably for abusive purposes.
Focus is the key Albert Einstein was a man who mastered the art of taking up one task at a time, focusing on it until it was achieved and shutting out everything else on his list and in life. The story goes that Einstein became so involved and focused while working on the theory of relativity that his marriage suffered and his hair turned grey almost overnight. He suspended all his engagements with various universities and institutes. This period between 191215, which he devoted to a single project, produced one of the most radical scientific revolutions in history – the theory of relativity. Not all of us can be Einstein, especially in this day and age. But what Einstein proved, besides the theory of relativity, is that focused work on a single project results in higher productivity than handling a dozen assignments at the same time.
DO YOU KNOW?
believes in multi tasking to avoid complete failure. Instead, you should work consciously at maximising your chances of success. So if your list is swarmed with “things to do” then the best way to declutter your senses is to prioritise your tasks. This will clear your mind and accelerate your progress. What is important is that you are able to sift the most relevant and important projects from the mess of tasks you have piled up. Here is how you can get rid of pending work. O First, divide your tasks: Put them
under professional, personal and extracurricular headers. Pick the top two from each and try and complete them in a week. O Prioritise important jobs: Under each heading, enlist the most crucial of assignments. O Cross out the irrelevant: Delete items from your list that are not going to help you achieve your goals. O Organise your obligations: Give yourself two to three weeks to get rid of pending assignments. Once you
A housewife called up a pet store and said, "Send me thirty-thousand cockroaches at once." What in the world do you want with thirty-thousand cocokroaches?" ased the astonished clerk. "Well," replied the woman, "I am moving today and my lease says I must leave the premises in exactly the same condition I found them." have these off your chest, the real work will await your undivided attention. O Avoid new undertakings: When you are done with these smaller nagging commitments you will be left with ample time for your own pet projects. Concentrate and try not to take on new ones. Postpone thoughts of fresh ventures till you have completed a substantial portion of work assigned. After a few practice sessions, you will see how The Einstein Principle works. You will learn to be focused, disciplined and organised. Above all, you might learn how easy it is to accomplish big targets when you can effectively manage your distractions and worries – even if these are related to work. After all, if you are driven in life it is a pity to let yourself be bogged down needlessly.
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MATRIMONIALS MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 31 years, Ht. 5’ 10”, Wt. 70 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.E., working as a Project Engineer. Contact email : john_kenneth@rediffmail.com OR 9819257704 (Regd. No. 6028) HYDERABAD : Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 29 years, Ht. 5’ 10”, Wt. 75 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. MBA, PGDM, working as a Sales Head in Abroad. Contact Email: michelle.dominica@ mylan.in OR 8008001552. (Regd. No. 6024) MUMBAI : Mangalorean RC Divorcee, aged 45 years, Ht. 6’ 1”, Wt. 87 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn P.U.C., working as a A/C Mechanic in Kuwait. Currently he his in Mumbai contact immediately. Mob.: 9967741308 (Regd. No. 6012) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 49 years, Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 85 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. SSC., N.C.T.V.T., B.Com., working as a Supervisor. Seeks a good cook, simple, religious Roman catholic spinster. Contact : 9967586814 (Regd. No. 5999) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 34 years, Ht. 5’ 8”, Wt. 60 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. Diploma in Hotel Management, working on the ship. Contact email : marshallliberty007@yahoo.com OR 9769775073 / 9819442577. (Regd. No. 5928) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 33 years, Ht. 183 cms, Wt. 80 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. B. Com., working as a Manager in MNC. Seeks a graduate working Mangalore Girl. Contact email :
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dsouzajery@yahoo.com OR 9967873644 (Regd. No. 5922) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 34 years, Ht. 6’, fair complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Sr. Officer. Seeks a good catholic family background girl. Contact Email : trevorfernandes69@gmail.com OR 9819420120 (Regd. No. 5920) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 27 years. Ht. 5’ 10”, Wt. 55 kgs., Fair Complexion, Edn. T.Y. B.Com., Working as a Sr. Collection Advisor. Contact Email : perpthevirgo@yahoo.co.in OR 9821302840 (Regd. No. 5919) MUMBAI : Tamilian Roman Catholic Divorcee, aged 48 years. Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 66 kgs., Fair Complexion, Edn. B.Com., BBA., MBA (Finance), working as a Finance Manager. Seeks a suitable Match. Contact Email : talentedgradewisdom@yahoo.com OR 9819939479 / 9930559783 (Regd. No. 5914) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 43 years looks much younger to his age, Ht. 5’ 2”, Wt. 59 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. XIIth std., having own business. Contact : 9767630415 / 9175186730 (Regd. No. 5892) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 33 years, Ht. 5’ 8”, Wt. 70 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Microsoft Engineer in Bangalore. Well settled, having own
Members are requested to inform us when they are settled, so that publication of their details can be discontinued.
house in Bangalore. Seeks a educated Mangalorean girl from good family background. Contact Email : lorettag58@gmail.com OR 9323949129 / 9867848489 (Regd. No. 5880) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 30 years, Ht. 5.’ 10”, Wt. 70 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. 1st class Dip. Auto Engg., working as a Sales Asst., Contact Tel.: 0250-2348711 (Regd. No. 5799) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 32 years, Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 58 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. MBA, working as a Manager. Seeks a suitable girl. Contact : Email: savioim40@gmail.com (Regd. No. 5763) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 31 years, Ht. 5’, 4”, Wt. 65 kgs, Wheatish Complexion,Edn. PGDBM working as a Sr. Manager in MNC in Mumbai. Well settled, having own accommodation, looking for a suitable match. Contact email : lewellyndias@gmail.com OR 9820467452 (Regd. No. 5759) BELGAUM: Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 50 years, Ht. 5.’ 10”, Wt. 62 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. 12th Std., Self employed. Seeks a simple, humble, godfearing homily girl preferable teacher or nurse. Contact Mob.: 9869222094 (Regd. No. 5806) Address your replies to :
Regd. No. ROYAL CHRISTIAN FAMILY, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001.
To Place Your Matrimonial Advertisement Call: 2269 3578 OR 2265 4924 17 February 2014
MATRIMONIALS MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 46 years, Ht. 5’ 2”, Wt. 73 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Audit Assistant. Contact s_gons@rediffmail.com / stephy_gons@yahoo.co.in OR 9819884257 (Regd. No. 6027) NAVIMUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 26 years, Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 65 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. M.Sc. (Mathematics), B.Ed., Lecturer by profession. Contact email : valerian.sequeira@basf.com OR 9833970405 (Regd. No. 5976) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 27 years, Ht. 5’, Wt. 46 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Customers Service. Seeks a suitable match. Contact : 9820251612 (Regd. No. 5890) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Jacobite Syrian Catholic Spinster, aged 32 years, Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 62 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. B. Com., MBA (Fin) working as a Customers Service. Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : joylyn.lewis@gmail.com OR 28954976 (Regd. No. 5891) MUMBAI : Mangalorean R.C. Parents invite alliance for their daughter 37/5’4”, Wheatish complexion, working in a reputed MNC. Seeks a suitable R.C. Bachelor upto 41 years with sober habits with latest photograph. Apply P.O. Box 853, Mumbai 400001 withfull details. (Regd. No. 5755)
Royal Christian Family Helps In Choosing The Right Life-Partner
Serving Since 32 Years 17 February 2014
MUMBAI : Mangalorean R.C. Spinster, aged 33 years, Ht. 5’1”, Wt. 51 kgs, fair Complexion, Edn. M.Com., PGDHRM, working for MNC - Shipping as Manager - Quality and Dy, Manager - Administration. Contact : Email : correspondenceadvt@gmail.com (Regd. No. 5771) MUMBAI : Goan RC Spinster aged 39 years, Ht. 5’ 3”, Wheatish Complexion, good looking, Edn. B.Com., working as a Admin., in MNC., seeks a suitable match. Contact email: leesal1234@gmail.com / lee_sal@rediffmail.com OR 9892590888 (Regd. No. 5787) MUMBAI : Mangalorean RC Spinster aged 32 years, Ht. 5’ 5”, Fair Complex, Edn. Doctor, working as an Asst. Manager in Pharmaceutical company. Only Child. Contact: email: shrlydsz@yahoo.com OR 9930550318 (Regd. No. 5786) MUMBAI : Goan RC Spinster, aged 31 years, Ht. 5’ 2”, Wt. 55 kgs, wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com, employed as a Operational Analtst. Contact Tel.: 28262988 (Regd. No. 5833) VALSAD : Goan + Mangalorean RC Spinster, Godfearing, faithful and understanding, aged 30 years, Ht. 5’ 5”, Fair Complexion, Edn. D’Ed., BA, B.Ed., Teacher by profession. Contact Mob.: 09377099024 (12 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.) (Regd. No. 5830) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 33 years, Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 60 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. B.Com., Sr. Stylist (Hair & Makeup). Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : dyllisd@gmail.com OR 9167560077 / 9930689139 (Regd. No. 5964) MUMBAI : RC Mangalorean Spin-
ster, M.Com/MBA (Finance) 28 / 5’2”, talented, with strong family values & from respectable family, working for a bank in Mumbai. Seeks well qualified boy upto 32, reply with recent photo & full details to email: smileangel378@yahoo.com OR 9920424282 (Regd. No. 5962) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster, 24 years, Ht. 5, Wt, 55 kgs, Wheatish complexion, Edn. C.A., working for MNC, Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : suzancarvalho89@gmail.com OR 9322295449 / 9769861559 (Regd. No. 5961) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster, 37 years, Ht. 5 ’ 2”, Wt, 58 kgs, Wheatish complexion, looks much younger to her age, good looking, smart, Edn. M.A. M.Com., working as a Senior Journalist. Seeks a well educated and well settled bachelor. Contact email : divinemother86@gmail.com OR 9833065385 (Regd. No. 5959) DUBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 29 years, Ht. 5’ 1”, Wt. 55 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. MA., HR, working in Dubai well settled. Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : rubybelgal@yahoo.in OR 9822487408 / 0832-2444390 (Regd. No. 5966) Address your replies to :
Regd. No. ROYAL CHRISTIAN FAMILY, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001.
Please renew your membership at lease a month in advance before its expiration date. 21
The Virgin Mary, Icon Of Catholic Womanhood
F
BY MELVYN BROWN
or over two thousand years the Spring of Womanhood has grown with prayers, devotions and worship to Mary, Virgin Mother of God. The Lord had created woman to be man’s companion, comfort and moral strength; to face the often enormous conflicts of life and to share in the seasons of his happiness. God chose Mary to be the perfect icon of womanhood. The Catholic Church honors Mary as Mother and Guardian of the Faith. Women are drawn instinctively to Our Lady. Young women entering adult life and confronting their womanhood are the special children of Mary. Through their marriage and natural motherhood the love of Our Lady attaches a closeness to their personal needs. The single woman and the single- woman-parent, are those who God in His mercy has provided His own mother to help and guide them when they turn to her. Saint Augustine, when he spoke about Holy virginity in the year 401 had said that “God’s virgins” should not be sad at not being natural mothers, “ since by doing His will” they are mothers of Jesus Christ. Woman in all walks of life have an inner temple of devotion to her man, nothing is feasible until that end is served. The core feature of woman’s mortal and spiritual being is always absolute when she stands beside her better-half. George Gordon Byron, the poet had his way of looking at the institution of marriage : “Though women are angels, yet wedlock’s the devil.” The New Testament speaks of Virgin Mary as enjoying a spiritual motherhood over men (Jn.19:26-7). All this is significant when we consider Mary as the icon for women. A good woman is a beacon of light. She often radiates the power for reforms and change. Many mothers and many wives have helped to change the course of history through their husbands and sons. Mikhail Gorbachev, the former Soviet President had been influenced in prayer by his Catholic mother. The rest
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is history. St. Augustine who wrote the Confessions of his life was changed from a sinner to a saint through his mother’s efforts. Men may not mention it but know that a woman is inevitably ‘the stone in the fortress’. The comfort zone for a brother should be his sister. The mother is the son’s buffer, and when he consults her, his credibility increases. Should President Obama need perspective, he can find it in Michelle, his wife. Sonia Gandhi is in the wings for
Religiously her rising son, Rahul – not forgetting that Priyanka has stepped forward to be there for her brother. I remember reading what Martin Luther had once said, “Man does not exist for the sake of woman, but woman exists for the sake of man and hence there shall be this difference that a man shall love his wife…” This German founder of Protestantism had revealed a truth far beyond his earth-shaking reforms. Above and beyond the study of human psychology, woman is essentially the hidden factor in man’s growth and development. A classic appreciation of woman once came from the pen of Robert G. Ingersoll, in 1948. I quote : “There will never be a generation of great men until
there has been a generation of free women – of free mothers.” It was the same thinker who said, “I had rather live with the woman I love in a world full of trouble, than to live in heaven with nobody but men.” The virginal life in the Church is fruitful, as Thomas Dubay, S.M. Stated, “because it is crucified”. Such a life of dedication to the Lord is a sacrificial offering to Him. The religious woman thereby becomes a mother by her hardsh-ips and suffering. Pope Pius XI had declared that in the Church a life given to prayer, trial and love is a fruitful apostolate. In the Bible St. Luke reminds us, “Did not the Christ have to suffer these things before entering into his glory?” (Lk.24:26). Woman matters. Nothing less. She is the haven in a man’s lifeline. She is the convenient touchstone for his outlook and aspirations. She is always there with ebullient response. Color, creed, culture, scholarship, wealth or poverty are not part of the merchandise she needs to resuscitate man – it is her mission to “be there”. Rudyard Kipling, an Indian-born English writer, mentions : “Take my word for it, the silliest woman can manage a clever man; but it needs a very clever woman to manage a fool.” In trials and hardships, Mary is the true and perfect icon for all womankind.
17 February 2014
Come, make the best choice of your life-Partner
Royal Christian Family happy to announce the next
GET-TOGETHER
Places are limited! Book Your Seat Early !!
on Sunday 6th April 2014 from 10 A. M. to 4 P.M. at, Bandra West, Mumbai 400050.
A grand gathering to get acquainted with boys and girls of matching age group who are in search of a suitable Life-Partner of their choice with an ultimate view to matrimony. O Participants list and other details will be sent 15 days prior to the get-together. O Lunch, snacks, etc, will be provided at the Get-together. O All entries must reach us by 5th of March 2014. O Royal Christian Family is having the experience of organising over 60 get-togethers O The meet covers good family boys and girls
in the past.
Royal Christian Family 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Near GPO., Fort, Mumbai 400001 Tel.: 022 - 22693578, 22654924 Email: secular@vsnl.com, secular@sezariworld.com
Creating future leaders in the community through the project:
‘Leaders in the Making and Reaching to the Top’ Youth are the pillars upon which a nation’s future is built. It is true that in this challenging era of globalisation, our youth must be nurtured, educated and guided towards the right path. There is a need for the youth of our community to strengthen their faith by adopting the right mindset and acquiring a wealth of knowledge. With this objectives in mind we have been conducting special youth seminars entitled ‘Leaders in the Making and Reaching to the Top’ since 10 years. So far over 8000 youth have participated and benefited in the 12 seminars which have been guided by expert resource persons. Guiding our youth as effective future leaders and shine in top positions within and outside the country is our dream which we want to turn it into reality, The Entire project is conducted absolutely Free for the participants. This appeal is an invitation specially for people who are concerned about our youth and their bright future to be a part of this project : THE SECULAR CITIZEN 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai 400001. Tel.: 22693578, 22654924 Emails: secular@vsnl.com / secular@sezariworld.com
17 February 2014
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RNI No. 56987/92
Published on every Monday & Posted on Monday & Tuesday of every week Posted at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office, Mumbai - 400001.
17 February 2014
Registered No. MH/MR/South-139/2012-14
The Secular Citizen and Divo Weekly Friendly Group Organising
18 days 9 Countries Tour of WESTERN EUROPE
Italy, Vatican, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Portugal, Spain Highlights: Vatican City, Sistine Chapel, Museum, St. Peter's Basilica. Veneice, Padova - St. Anthony's Shrine, Assisi - St. Francis Shrine, Rome - Coloseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, St. John the Latern Church, St. Mary Major Church, St. Paul Church, Holy Steps, Rotondo - Padre Pio. Engelbert - Mt. Titlis with Titlis Rotair and Ice Flyer. Cologne - Schaffhausen Rhine Falls, Cathedral. Amsterdam - Brussels. Parish - Eiffel Tower, Lourdes - Catholic pilgrimage centre. Loyola - St. Ignatius of Loyola. Fatima - visit Our Lady of Fatima Church, visit to holy sites. and more.
Includes all important sights and pilgrimage centres
Group Leaving on 19th May 2014
Includes O Airfare O Visas O Accommodation in Hotels O Travel Insurance O Luxury A/C coach O sightseeing O Tips & Gratuities O Insurance O Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner O Water O English Speaking Licensed Guide. A Few Seats Are Available, Book Early
For more details Contact :
The Secular Citizen / Divo : 22693578, 22654924
Susan: 9820473103 O Cyprian : 9821589600, 28899609 O John : 9820384060 Printed and Published by Lawrence Coelho at The Secular Citizen, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Harihar Nivas, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001. Tel.: 2269 3578, 2265 4924 17 February 2014 Printers: The Secular Citizen, Fort, Mumbai 400001. Editor : Philip Myaboo
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