Oriens

The unfolding of events posed to
Shillen many questions: “Why
should he go to Zonato, that
too on a Sunday and why
should he send these
quality smoked meat and
asking us to cook for
tomorrow’s supper? He
knew that I have to go
for harvest tomorrow
to Kingen’s field?”
To him everything
seemed a riddle
hiddeninamystery

and why should he send these quality smoked meat and asking us to cook for at each other. She would
tomorrow’s supper? He knew that I have to go for harvest tomorrow to Kingen’s wonder whether they were
field?” To him everything seemed a riddle hidden in a mystery. playing or fighting. But it
would bring to her mind

It was Monday. Shillen was in such a hurry to go to the field of Kingen. the same type of game she

But how could he go so early as to leave his bed-ridden Amen unattended. He had with Shillen in those

washed her as early and fast as he could, fed her with what he cooked and good old times.

promised her to return before the setting of the sun. Amen said, “Shillen, we As these thoughts filled
have played enough games; it is time to work, though I am not able to come. in and spilled out of her mind
Go safely. May the Lord reward Kingen with a great harvest!” greeted Amen off and on in the third quarter
with these words of blessing. of the day and waiting for the

It was the midday silence of the village surrounded by bamboo grove. eager and brisk footstepsof

People of Zotomaall being in the fields, there was no one to utter a hiss Shillen into the house, she heard

or hush. The only noise heard was the intermittent recitation of rhymes a slow screech of the door being

on English alphabets from the nearby Lower Primary School. One gently opened by a lady so young.

could also hear the cocks crowing in different locations. To Amen “It is me sister. I am Kanmai” said

these realities were nothing new. She had already accepted her the young lady.

fate to reach the God of the sky whenever the time would arrive. “Kanmai from Zonato?”
She would spend her time thinking of the good old time she “Yes sister.”
had with Shillen looking at the thatches and how the spider

was spinning its webs. Sometimes she would enjoy the “What made you come here? Come close
couple of sparrows suddenly entering the house pecking to me. I have heard of you from Shillen and

never have seen you. Come close dear.”

“To live without hope is to cease to live.”

Fyodor Dostoyevsky

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 49

Kanmai sat beside Amen looking at her and
caressing her head. “Do you want me to do
anything for you sister?”

“No, no, nothing. Shillen has done
everything for me. It must be time for him
to return from your field, though you are
not there…”

“My God, if it is so, I must begin
to cook fast. Where is the rice and
where are the smoked meat? Your
father in law is such a wonderful
man. I could not but obey him.
So I am here to cook.”

“How did you meet him?”

“He came and spent the your father in law told us yesterday.”
whole day at my house
yesterday speaking to my “What?”
dad and mom. And what can
I say? My sadness without “At least that is what he told me. But it does not matter. It will all be clear to
Kinhgen is not as much as us soon. But tell me sister, please, how it all happened to you?” Asked Kanmai
your suffering with Shillen.” about her being bedridden.

“Kanmai, life is a game, “It is all a game dear. It began with a game and happened in a game. Shillen
keep playing it when you one day for fun pushed me into the river to make me swim. But unfortunately,
have someone to play with. it was a shallow area. I hit the bed rock at the bottom and I got paralysed
Else you will regret when it below waist. But the game continues every day with joys and sorrows, and
is too late and are unable to laughter and cries, though I am now absolutely matchless for Shillen. It
even think about it.”
should flow on like a river - slow some times, stagnant for a while, rushing,
Listening toAmen, Kanmai tumbling, crashing, whirling and purlingat other times and so on. But it must
began cooking, cleaning and flow on until it reaches its end. That is what I want you to do. You began
putting order in the house.
your game, if I am not wrong, two years ago. It must reach its end. Please
return to Kingen.”

The fire rose in full flames in The deafening peals of yell was at the door. It was clear that a score of
the oven. The house began to be harvesters were carrying khangsof paddy to Shillen’s house including Kingen.
lit up the conversation of the wives
of two friends. Yells of happiness Suddenly entered Shillenhurrying into the house and rushing straight
pierced the sky in the rushing day to Amen. “Was everything ok? All my plan got changed by my dad. He
at a distance.
had taken all the harvesters to our field instead of Kingen’s.”

“What could it be sister? Does it not “It is all for good,” said Amen “Call them all in, starting with
sound like yells of good harvest?” asked Kingen, and have the dinner first which Kanmai has prepared.”
Kanmai.
“What? Is Kanmai here?”

“It is. Perhaps God has blessed Kingen “Yes, she will join Kingen tomorrow for the harvest
with a good harvest this year. For today is the too.”
harvest in your field.”

“No, sister, this is from your field. That is what

“The miserable have no other medicine but only hope.”

William Shakespeare

50 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Hyku Poems

Utmost Hope

1 Be a
Solution
Extreme laziness- asking a lift for morning walk.
I am glad to be fresh
Utmost craziness- taking the copy of a white A unique experience, being out of mesh
paper. Sky is crystal clear without fumes
The entire creation finally resumes
Extreme honesty- A pregnant lady getting two Earth: I restored my health
tickets on bus. Animals: we regained our common wealth
Birds: we exercised our freedom
Utmost hope - 99 year old granny buying a In unison, we proclaim, ‘This is our new
lifetime validity sim. millennium,’
It’s the peak time to unite
2 Let the hearts and minds ignite
Trumpet aloud, ‘stop pollution’
The most painful thing on earth is childbirth, Let us take a chance to say
says science. ‘I and you are a solution to creation.’
Science is wrong, says a mother in the old age
home, brim with tears.

Momin Cheran Salgrak Sigeon Pradeep

“Hope is a waking dream.”

Aristotle

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 51

InauguratAiocnaodfemic Year

52 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

DOiarcdoinnaatteion

Indepdeanydence

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 53

Vianney
day

54 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 55

Teacher’s
day

Celebrations

56 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Annual
Seminar

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 57

Freshers’ Day

58 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Farewell to Deacons

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 59

Blood
Donation

Camp

Ministry of

Acolyte
and

Lector

60 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Community Day
Competitions

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 61

Community Day
Celebrations



Rev. Dr. Stanislaus MiHn Foouboseirlsme aPtiohnone
Chinliankhup
The mobile phone has invaded the
formation houses. Some seminarians
have been caught using mobile phone
in secret and are dismissed. The luckier
ones are not caught but they are not less
culpable. Indeed, the mobile phones have

derailed the vocation of some unfortunate
young seminarians and it is a matter
of concern. The authorities have
responded to the new reality of
the mobile phones in varied
ways. Some seminaries are
moving towards liberal trend
while others prefer to stick
on to old rules. However,
these are mere temporary
measures and there is a
need for proper formation
in the use of mobile phone
for our life and ministry.
Indeed, the mobile phone
has become so important
that we cannot get rid of
it. The option seems either
we learn to use it well or be
enslaved by it. Therefore, I
would like to make a random
reflection to incite further
reflection that would
contribute towards the
development of healthy
formation in seminaries
to deal with the reality
of the mobile culture.

64 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

The New Reality The formation houses are still
Offered by Mobile Phone struggling to deal with the
new reality heralded by the
When the mobile phone came to the market in the mid mobile phone.
1990s it was expensive and not widely used. Even in
the early years of the 21st century, the land phones but have brought in risks and problems too. Indeed,
were mainly used for distant-communication. The it has brought in a new element in formation houses
weekly or bi-weekly STD Calls from the public phone which summons our common attention.
booths to home was a luxury and a great joy. But it was
expensive and the joy was often curtailed by the fast Response to the Reality
moving digital meter of the phone booth displaying of Mobile Phone
the rising cost each second. Today, such things have
become memories of a bygone generation because The formation houses are still struggling to deal with
the mobile phone and the flat rate system have made the new reality heralded by the mobile phone. Some
communication cheap and easy. Home calls can be follow conservative approach by forbidding its use.
made anytime on any day. Besides, in our digital era, This is the easiest and the safest measure and offenders
the mobile phone also gives us access into the world are punished, often by dismissal. This method works
of internet websites and virtual reality with myriads of in Minor Seminaries but the application of this method
possibilities. Shopping, banking, application for jobs, becomes tougher when the seminarians mature and
classes, courses, talks, chats, etc., can be done online.
All these have made modern life easier in many ways

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

Martin Luther King Jr

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 65

Before the covid-19 pandemic
the practice of attending
online mass was questioned,
but during the pandemic
online-services have become
the only medium available to
attend the Holy Eucharist.
The concept of online talks,
prayers, retreats, and so on,
has become a reality and
the mobile phone is the best
means to access them

reach higher level of formation. Then, there is the liberal Dangers Associated with
approach which gives some general guidelines and Mobile Phone
permits its free use. The logic here is that each person
is mature and has to responsibly use it. Here, maturity To fight the enemy we need to know the enemy. Same
is presumed and human frailty is overlooked to a great way, we need to know the dangers associated with
extent. As such, this is suitable for those who are truly the use of mobile phone. There are many hazards but
mature and disciplined. But it undermines the spirit of some of the prominent ones that can affect priestly
formation because the seminarians are basically left to vocation are:
decide for themselves and suffer alone the consequence
of their decisions and actions. A mid-way between these 1. First, mobile phone gives access to internet websites
two extremes is the restricted use of mobile phone. with all sorts of harmful stuff which can paralyse
Here, the use of mobile phone in public is forbidden one’s aim and mission in life.
and permission is granted for its private use in one’s
room. This is done not to downplay the maturity of the 2. Secondly, one can live in the virtual world of
candidates but to respect the spirit of formation and to websites and become indifferent to the people
inculcate the habit of regulation in the use of mobile around us. In our time, many people are engaged
phone. This looks reasonable and superiors have the in conversation, games and discussions with people
satisfaction that a sort of rule has been followed without in different parts of the world and are not present
hurting the freedom of the seminarians. But here too, to the reality around them. We are in a situation in
unless the students learn to regular its use, misuse can which people are present everywhere except where
happen and cause physical, psychological and spiritual they actually are.
harms. Therefore, the only reliable formation in the
use of mobile phone would be self-formation based 3. Thirdly, using mobile phone can become a bad
on certain firm personal convictions.

“May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.”

Nelson Mandela

66 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

manner in public places, especially for public are already using the internet and going viral. Many
figures like priests. The German television channel parishes have websites, facebook, zoom meetings,
ADF has a program called “Heute Show” which instagrams, and other electronic means to communicate
takes up various social issues and satirizes them. In and interact. Even small communities in remotes areas
one of its editions, the Chancellor Angela Merkel are using Whatsapp and the mobile network services
was caught playing with her mobile phone during to engage its members. So, mobile phone has become
an important conference. Such mannerism can the most common means to receive information and to
be observed among priests, and even bishops. It reach out to others. Before the covid-19 pandemic the
creates bad impression. practice of attending online mass was questioned, but
during the pandemic online-services have become the
4. Fourthly, an unregulated use of mobile phone only medium available to attend the Holy Eucharist.
can lead to distraction and prevent one from The concept of online talks, prayers, retreats, and so
concentration in one’s work; be it studies, reading, on, has become a reality and the mobile phone is the
praying, planning, etc. best means to access them.

5. Finally, since so many materials are found in the Conclusion
internet one can become dependent on them and
this can prevent original thinking. There is the Indeed, the mobile phone has become the indispensible
danger of our mind and thought being limited to companion of individuals in our time. We have to train
the mobile phone. ourselves to employ it to achieve our mission. The need
of the hour is to develop ways and means to engage
Where Sin abounds, Grace seminarians to creatively use the mobile phone for faith
abounds much More formation and evangelization.

Though the dangers associated with the mobile phone
are many there is no reason for fear. The words
of St. Paul that, “Where sin abounds, grace
abounds all the more” (5:20) should help us to
appreciate and explore its benefits and remove
undue anxieties. Mobile phone is God’s gift
to humankind discovered by technological
advancement. It is harmless in itself. In fact,
it can be positively used for our benefit and
for the spread of the gospel. If it is properly
used, it can work wonders in building one’s
personality, family and friendship. The real
need is to find the best way to use it and escape
being used by it.

Mobile Phone at the
Service of the Church

The Second Vatican Council wants a Church
that goes out to the world and mobile phone
serves as a wonderful instrument to achieve
this. The Church in many parts of the world

“Everything that is done in this world is done by hope.”

Martin Luther

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 67

St.Joseph, the greatest among St. Joseph: A Model for Seminarians
the Saints, made himself a
saint in simplicity, trying to do in Availability (Mt 2:13-15): St. Joseph was available to the family
everything and at all times the at the time of great difficulties. Even at night when he was tired he
will of God. St. Joseph is known took child Jesus and Mary and escaped from Herod. Likewise
as a hard working carpenter (Mt we need to be available for the people in times of trials, miseries,
13:55), a just man, righteous in and sufferings.
the sight of the Lord (Mt 1:19;
Prov 20:7; Gen 6:9), fulfilling A man of deep humility: St. Joseph had the freedom to reject
God’s will and Laws (Lk 2:22, God and become a known figure in the society enjoying his life
27). Today people need priests but he chose the virtue of humility. He was humble enough to

with good qualities and right take up the challenges. We too need to be humble to accept the
attitude. Seminary is a place challenges in our lives.
where we can grow in virtues
and shape our lives to become Follower of God’s will (Lk 2:22, 27): St. Joseph obeyed
effective ministers of God. As God’s law and did everything as per the plan of God. Obeying
we celebrate the year of St. God’s law means having a covenantal relationship with
Joseph it is good to imitate God. The will of God for us is to obey his commands,
some of the virtues St. Joseph to know him closely and to give him to the people. Let us
practiced so that we become obey God’s command by loving him and his people dearly and
good priests and serve the people intimately.
with profound zeal. St. Joseph
is seen as: A man of modesty (Mt 1:25): Even though St. Joseph took
Mary as his wife, he was modest in his behaviour. We can learn
A man of great faith (Mt the quality of perfect modesty from him. We are called to be
1:24): St. Joseph believed the holy priests living a life of chastity. We need to keep up our
Angel’s words in the dreams and chastity. We have to be modest in our dealings with others. We
was faithful to the command of should maintain healthy relationships with everyone.
the Lord. Our faith should be like
Joseph who accepted to receive A man of hope (Mt 2:21-23): Once decided to follow the
God in his life, in his family Lord St. Joseph never went away from the presence of the Lord.
and in his house.As seminarians At times when we face difficult situation in life we tend to lose
our faith may diminish as we our hope in God and give up our priestly vocation. But like
learn different subjects and try him let us always hope for Glorious things in life.
to interpret it but we should be
humble enough to receive God
into our lives to accept and follow
His paths as Joseph did.

Vishal Jangam

68 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

RHeesatsrtin

Y It is only with the heart that we see rightly. The not ennoble us or enrich the receiver. It is possible
cry of sickly person may reach our ears but unless to give generously with the hand and still be a
it reaches our heart we will not feel person’s pain miser at heart.
and is unlikely that we will respond.
Y It is only with the heart that we can work rightly.
Y It is only with the heart that we can hear rightly. If our heart is not in our work, we are working
For our words to ring true they must be spoken under the severest handicap of all.
from the heart. If they come only from the lips
they will have little effect. They will be like a Y It is only with the heart that we welcome person
wind that ripples the surface of the water but rightly. We may open the door of our home to
leave the depth untouched. someone, but unless we make room for him in
our heart, he will still be a stranger to us.
Y It is only with the heart that we can give rightly.
If our gift does not come from the heart, it does Y It is only through the heart that we can forgive
rightly. If forgiveness does not come from our
Rai Joseph Munsi heart it will not bring us peace, nor will it result
in a true reconciliation with the other party.

Y It is only through the heart that we can repent
rightly. If our repentance does not reach our
heart it will not lead to a change of life. It will
be like decapitating weeds while leaving their
roots intact.

Behind our eyes of each one of us lies a whole
world; it is the world of the heart. Much of this world
is hidden from us, but we are not totally in the dark.
The state of person’s heart can be glimpsed in the face,
especially in the eyes. Corruption of heart worsens
the face and darkens the eyes, where purity of heart
softens the face and causes the eyes to shine. When all
is said and done it is the heart that matters. To close
one’s heart is to begin to die. To open one’s heart is to
begin to live. The world is God’s temple. The human
heart is God’s sanctuary.

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 69

Setting
Traditions – An
Encomium to
Rev. Dr. Thomas

Manjaly

Any premier institution of learning is known
for its unique tradition. Just like a lush
green  tree is supported by its roots that are deep and
buried in the ground, so too all premiere institutions of
learning have learned academicians, administrators and
great visionaries who founded them and sustained them.

Oriens Theological College is proud to have one such great after few years of teaching Scripture
academician, administrator and a visionary in the person of Rev. Dr. at Oriens, a doctoral degree in
Thomas Manjaly. Apropos, he has entered his golden year of his priestly Biblical Theology from Urbaniana
ministry in the Church. Of these fifty years, he has spent thirty-five fruitful University in Rome.
years shaping Oriens from its inception to the status of a prestigious
Theological Insititute.  Oriens Theological College thanks God for Fr As we cannot speak of Jesus
Thomas Manjaly who has served the Institute in various capacities like without his relation to the Father and
the Dean of Studies, the Registrar, Librarian, and the Director of the the Holy Spirit, so also we cannot
speak of Fr. Thomas Manjaly’s life
Cultural Centre, the Documentation in Oriens without his to two other
Centre and the Oriens Publications. great priests of the Archdiocese of
Shillong namely, Fr. Jacob Aluckal
Rev. Dr. Joyee K. Fr. Thomas Manjaly is a priest of and Late Fr. Thomas Macheril who
Vellattukara the Archdiocese of Shillong. He was together came to serve Oriens in
ordained a priest on 24th October, its initial years and continued to
1971. Even prior to his ordination teach until their age of retirement.
he secured  a Master’s Degree in Like the three stones that make
Philosophy and after his ordination up a fire place, these three priests,
another Masters in Theology from with their vast pastoral experience
JDV, Pune. Later after seven years combined with the scholarly acumen
of pastoral ministry in the diocese, and administrative skills laid the
he obtained Licentiate in Sacred foundation for Oreins to be an
Scripture at the Pontifical Biblical
Institute in Rome and then again

70 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

independent faculty in theology Rev. Fr. MACHERIL universal Church acknowledged
affiliated to the Pontifical Urbaniana THOMAS his erudite scholarship when the
University in Rome in 1990. It is to Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI
be remembered that Oriens started in Rector : 1993-1996 appointed him a Member to the
1979 as an inter-diocesan study house Pontifical Biblical Commission,
for the brothers from the dioceses of Rev. Fr. MATHAVADIAN Rome, in 2008 -a position which
Northeast to pursue their theological CHRISTUDHAS was extended to him for a record
studies at Sacred Heart Theologate, period of 11 years. In the year of his
Mawlai, run by the Salesians of Rector : 1996-2001 Golden Jubilee alone, he was able
Don Bosco. to author three books. His latest
to his credit seventeen books and book, ‘Discipleship, Leadership
From the beginning of his service numerous articles published in and Community building’ amply
at Oriens, Fr. Thomas Manjaly reputed journals. speak of the orientation of his life
took up the role of the Dean of and priesthood.
Studies. It was his great concern As a theologian, well grounded in
then to establish a Library and a the pastoral reality of the Northeast, Allthroughhisclasses,conferences
Documentation Centre worth their he is an acknowledged collaborator and homilies he insisted on the
names. When he took up the cultural of the Bishops in the Region. students to be pastorally relevant
centre from Fr. Jacob Aluckal he He has served as the Executive and to be effective leaders. From
made a special effort to go around Secretary to many Commissions his own resources he extended help
the dioceses in the Northeast to in the region and in the country. to the brothers to buy the basic
collect artefacts of historical and He made Oriens proud when the theological books before they left the
cultural importance to be preserved institute for their pastoral ministry.
in there. And today Oriens can He can rightfully boast that four of
boast of having a culturally and his students have become bishops
religiously relevant museum which in the region. And in his Golden
is a rarity in most of the Theologates Jubilee year he can rejoice at the
in India or abroad. It has a library fact that his two time student (both
specially suited to the study of in philosophy and theology), Most
Sacred Scripture, Missiology and Rev. Victor Lyngdoh, is appointed
Tribal Anthropology along with the Archbishop of Shillong. He
other Sacred Sciences. can now sing the ‘Nunc Dimittis’
entrusting the Institute that he loved
In a formation house, as important and fostered into the safe hands of
as the teaching is, the example Most. Rev. Victor Lyngdoh, who
set by a teacher. Fr. Manjaly is by virtue of his office, has become
an example for the students to the local guardian of the Oriens
follow in his regimen of personal Theological College.
prayer, simplicity, commitment,
discipline and hard work towards Fr. Thomas Manjaly’s, life
excellence. Besides the regular and achievements, both nationally
well-prepared classes at Oreins he and internationally, is a noble goal
is able to organize his time to be a that all those who pass through
visiting professor in many theological the portal of Oriens can emulate.
institutes across India and, to be the Looking at him at close quarters
editor of journals and co-editor of one may say, ‘He is tired but not
a number of publications. He has retired’! He is a treasure and an
inspiration to be in company with.

“Hope is a passion for the possible.”

Søren Kierkegaard

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 71

HOPE IN GOD:
AN INSPIRATION
FROM CHINESE BAMBOO

The Chinese Bamboo is one of Bamboo may look really simple and that it has strength greater than that
the perfect representations of we may end up underestimating it. of steel.
our hope in God. Normally, when Like any other plants Chinese Bamboo
we plant different sorts of seeds we needs water and nourishment for its The Chinese Bamboo represents
expect growth within weeks after growth. But during the first year, our hope in God. There are moments
planting. But that is not the case of we can’t see any signs of growth. in our life when we are not able
the Chinese Bamboo. The Chinese In the second year, still we don’t to understand what is happening
see any visible signs of growth and deep within us, sometimes we feel
Albin Antony activity. In the third year and the like we are in the middle of a dark
fourth year still we don’t see any tunnel. We can’t see anything and
signs of growth. But if we have in this situation we can’t even feel
the hope and the patience to wait God’s presence with us because of
we will be seeing a visible growth too much pain and brokenness. But
in the fifth year and only then the often we fail to realize that we are
mysterious Chinese Bamboo will actually growing like the Chinese
prove its magnificent beauty. After Bamboo. It’s just people can’t see it
waiting in hope for five long years, at a glance because God is building
the Chinese Bamboo can grow up something solid and strong on the
to 80 feet in just six weeks. It will inside of us and expanding the roots
grow into a very strong plant and of our foundation. God is building
it is one of the hardest materials in up our character. God is preparing
the world despite of its looks such us so that we will be able to handle

72 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

They Run not to Win,
but for Someone Else

tomorrow’s difficulties and Majid Majidi’s Iranian movie Children of Heaven is about a
moments of struggles. The fact young boy contesting in a running race for the third prize. His
is that there is no such thing as only aim is to somehow reach the finishing point as the third one,
instant growth. When we talk so that he can gift his barefooted younger sister a pair of shoes to
about hope in God, we need to go to school. He always finished first during the practice sessions.
learn how to wait in hope and He ran that day not to be the winner. Checking back frequently,
be patient just like Chinese he crossed the finishing line and collapsed on the ground. He kept
Bamboo in which we don’t see asking the teacher who helped him: “Amn’t I the third one?” When
any sign of instant growth. We the teacher told him, “No dear, you crossed the line first”, he began
are constantly trying to grow weeping. Though he was the winner, he reached home like a loser.
ourselves but it is never that Seeing his sister’s curious eyes, who ran to him hopefully, he bowed
simple because we get faced down his head. Some people are like this little boy, they run not to
with obstacles that may tempt win, but for someone else.
us to give up. Progress can be
really slow like Chinese Bamboo; Naulak
we should have the strength Nenghoumuan Samuel
to withstand all the obstacles
because at the end of the day,
it will be totally worth it. In the
moments of struggle, we shall
not give up rather continue to
nourish our hope in God and
don’t get frustrated if we can’t
see the growth in ourselves, for
one day we will be experiencing
the harvest in us and then only
we will realize that all this
time we are actually growing

in God’s presence and grace.

“Hope never abandons you, you abandon it.”

George Weinberg

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 73

“Suffering produces endurance, psychological problems in the life of the millions of people living in
endurance produces character, of the people. After all, the deadly poverty, famine, inequality etc…
and character produces hope and hope pandemic has killed more than 1.5 on the edges of the world. Amidst
does not disappoint us” (Rom. 5:3-5). million people globally and it has the grief, anxiety, hopelessness,
infected more than 3.40 million people confusion, there are signs of hope
Everyone will agree with me around the globe and the count is and solidarity, a sense of patience, a
if I say that covid-19 is one of the at its rise. Recently, the arrival of desire for togetherness and a sense
most precarious threats the world vaccines and its effectiveness has of positive perception about the
has ever faced. It completely took brought the decline of corona cases world among the people. People
2020 into its hands. Within a limited all over the world.As a result, people have found something meaningful
period of time, it destroyed human have resumed their normal lives in in their lives in the midst of such
hopes, human relationships, and it most parts of the world. crisis. Therefore, let us take the
locked people in their homes and pandemic as an invitation to bring
became a matter of concern for Even though the arrival of vaccines out the best in humans to create a
the entire world. It has brought to defend against the virus in the just and fraternal world. Hopefully,
financial crisis in every countries world is promising, the abysmal we will achieve it as one family by
and has brought many physical and differential among countries in getting keeping complete trust
access to vaccines reveal the ugly

Hope against the
Hopeless Covid-19

The impacts of novel corona virus
call us for greater attention to the
common good and to the concern
of the millions of people living in
poverty, famine, inequality etc…
on the edges of the world

Francis Thomas face of the old logic of humanity and in God who makes
the need to dream together for our things happen for a purpose and for
common future as one family on the a reason in His own time.
planet. However, many of us might
have felt grief, anxiety, fear etc... For God, everything has a
when the epidemic was at the peak purpose, has got a divine plan and
of grabbing one life after another meaning, and a sign value for the
and infecting one person too many. people of God pointing to the road
The impacts of novel corona virus of conversion and liberation. God
call us for greater attention to the brings good out of suffering and
common good and to the concern evil. There are lots of instances that
we see in the Bible starting from
the flood in Noah’s time (Gen 6:9)

74 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

which is presented as a moment from the scene. In the spirit of the in feeling we might get there, that
of re-generation of humanity and Good Shepherd, let us not run away drives hope for most of us. When
a new beginning for the earth. The from the pandemic, but rather let’s this hope finds tangible believers,
plagues of Egypt were read along confront it with courage and hope. it is always related to someone or
the narrative of the exodus event Therefore, we can firmly believe that something. It is a cause or a person.
(Ex 1-10). Jesus refused to adhere God has a purpose on the epidemic It’s a belief or ideal. Trust and reliance
to popular interpretations about and out of it He brings something are synonymous with hope. It is
unfortunate events and calamities positive outcome to this world. So relatable when it comes garbed as
such as the fall of a tower that killed let’s hope for it to happen and pray useful and in the interest of another
many people in Siloah (Lk 13:15) for it that God may bring about good or others. It makes one feel like a
or the cause of the blindness of a that we have ever hoped for as the custodian who is guarding through
child born blind (Jn 9:1–3). Jesus
would rather see in them a call to saying their actions the future of others
responsibility through of St. Clement of and not just self. Keepers
Alexandria goes; “If you do of hope instill confidence
Real hope is a not hope, you will not find what is and faith in others
hope against all beyond your hopes.” for the belief in
hopelessness Moreover, Real hope is a hope their greater cause.
and a power- against all hopelessness and a Messengersofhope
ful message powerful message in times when stand guard like
in times when things are uncomfortable enough for sentinels, soldiering
things are un- a better living. It grows legs when away through the
comfortable there is a desire and anticipation passage from one point
enough for a on the things to happen differently to the next, where hope
better living and for the better, and to happen in moves for its own survival
real time. It is the confidence, with before it is lived and celebrated
conversion, which we expect, and the comfort as reality.
and an opportunity
to manifest the power of In conclusion, I would
God’s love.The growth of Christianity say that it takes a daring man,
in the Roman empire was favored a well-fed soul and a mature
by the witness of Christians who mind, to see hope when doom
stayed on to care for the sick during is the celebration of the moment.
plagues (for example, Antonine Therefore, let us accept the situation
plague during 165-180 AD and the as it is and let us give everything at
plague of Cyprian during 249-262 the hands of the Lord so that we may
AD) when healthy Romans fled find meaning in such crisis. Also let
us try our best to move on towards
a better tomorrow. Tomorrow will
come. It may come a tad slower
than it used to come before Corona
gripped our lives. Those that reach
the other side unbroken and full of
hope will be the leaders and change
makers of tomorrow. Hence, hope
is the only way to live against
the pandemic and to confront its
impacts with complete trust in the
providence of God.

“Where there is no vision, there is no hope.”

George Washington Carver

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 75

Clouds of Hope Over a Closed World
A reflction on Fratelli Tutti

Fratelli Tutti (Brothers and is rise on intolerance, extremist, fields, we are still “illiterate” when
Sisters all), the encyclical aggressive nationalism and new it comes to accompanying, carrying
letter of Pope Francis gave forms of cultural colonisation; the for and supporting the most frail and
us a strong blow to be self- real concept of Democracy, Freedom vulnerable members” (64). Hence,
critic, self-assessing, self- and Justice are deformed; growing the challenge is not who is close to
introspecting in analysing indifference towards all kinds of be our neighbour, but rather that we
ourselves whether we are wastefulness; constant war, conflict ourselves becoming a neighbour to
truly brother and sister to and persecution thus resulting in all by overcoming our prejudices,
one another. The encyclical homelessness and mass migrations; narrow-mindedness, personal
contains rich insights, suggestive rise of poverty, unemployment, interests, cultural barrier etc.
measures, as well as it presents racism and destructive forms of
challenges in order to broaden fanaticism; excessive knowledge The third chapter “Envisaging
our outlook and correct and information but lack inter- and engendering an open world”
our misconceptions. The personal relationship and wisdom. invites everyone to go “outside of
encyclical over all focuses and Reflecting deeper on the passage of self” like a lover towards beloved,
aims at promoting a universal a “Good Samaritan” in chapter two so as to find “a fuller existence in
aspiration towards fraternity and “A stranger on the Road”, Pope another” (88). Pope also emphasises
social friendship. The document Francis challenges how we could the value of ‘solidarity’ that finds
consists of eight chapters. be a neighbour without a border. In concrete expression in service (115),
spite of great progress in different which means thinking and acting in
Dwelling on the first chapter
“Dark clouds over a closed world”,
Pope Francis presents variety of
distortions of our times: There

Sangma Dibru
Nicholas

76 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

terms of community. It invites us to to grasp the truth for, “differences In the final chapter on “Religion
transcend our narrow classification are creative, they create tension at the service of fraternity in
of society like Good Samaritan and in resolution of tension lies the world”, Pope states that the
to integrate everyone in society. humanity’s progress (203). different religion based on their
Another important emphasis is on respect for every person as a child
sharing of goods of the earth with In the seventh chapter “Paths of of God, contribute significantly
everyone and to ensure the rights renewed encounter”, Pope highlights for building mutual fraternity and
of every person. the need for peacemakers for which defending justice and rights. He also
men and women are to be prepared strongly affirms on the necessity of
The forth chapter “A heart open to work courageously and creatively granting religious freedom, which is
to the whole world” addresses to initiate process of healing and a fundamental right for all believers
migration who are fleeing from war, renewed encounter. He emphasises (279). The important role of the
persecution and natural catastrophe, the importance of “forgiveness Church is also stressed, and the
and therefore, there is a need of and reconciliation”. Regarding the Christian identity in the world is
creative response to welcome, protect, traditional acceptance of “Just War”, also highlighted.
promote and integrate the migrants the Holy Father reaffirms that we
(129). Pope specifically emphasis can no longer think of the possibility Finally Pope Francis makes an
taking certain indispensable steps of just war as there is no war that appeal quoting from “Document
for those who are fleeing grave can be justified. He suggests that of Human Fraternity for World
humanitarian crisis: to simplify and the money used for investing in Peace and Living together” which
increase granting of visas, adopting weapons should be channelized for he signed on 4th February 2019 in
programmes of individual and the establishment of a global fund Abu Dhabui, along with the Grand
community sponsorship, opening for the elimination of hunger (155- Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Al-
humanitarian corridor for the most 262). He also restates his magisterial Tayyib emphasising on the adoption
vulnerable refuges, promoting teaching that death penalty is of Cultural dialogue as the path,
suitable and dignified housing… “inadmissible” and therefore must common cooperation and mutual
(130). “A better kind of Politics” be abolished worldwide (263-270). knowledge.
in chapter five emphasises Politics
representing as the most valuable
form of act which is considered “a
lofty vocation and one of the highest
form of charity, in as much it seeks
common good…” (180).The politics
has to be centred on human dignity;
should be far sighted and capable of
new, integral and interdisciplinary
approach to handling the different
aspects of crisis.In chapter six
“Dialogue and Friendship in
Society” Pope speaking on ‘Culture
of encounter’ exhorts everyone to
be passionate about meeting others,
seeking points of contact, building
bridges, planning a project that
include everyone (216). The space
has to be created for everyone in
the dialogue so as to bring variety

“In all things it is better to hope than to despair.”

Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 77

Every Human Being is a
God Signed Mystery

Hope awakes from sleep to explore to come out from the mourn song of inert and find out the
the purpose of Life. It stipples all the trumpet sound of success. His journey of hope paves the
events of the past to contextualize one’s life way to know the score of his life and to make a sudden shift
and to cope with the present situation through from hopelessness to hopefulness which is very loyal and
which he has to journey. When hope comes alive, responsible to his conviction. The hopeful person does not
naturally it closes the imaginary existence of life limit himself in the domain of inanimate horizons but he
and opens the door to the reality of existence will be carried to the openness of the Hopefulness
which is here and now. Sometimes it grips the

insomniac night which disturbs the person to We are very busy in thinking and very lazy in action.

seize his slumber and to keep his eyes peeled to Do not hesitate to bear fruit now, thinking that God will

the dreams and achievements which he really provide chances again and again. It is shameful for us to

hoped for. The gist of Hope echoes volumes invite Zarathustra again and make him to cry out that Hope

of dynamic synonyms of dutiful actualization is dead, rather, come out from the “Wu Wei” mentality and

that has to be carried by the human being. By actualize the maximum with positive vibes through your

encountering such situations and experiences, life. “Every human being is a God signed mystery,” so he

one channelizes his motivational praxis prefers each and every moment as an opportunity to explore the

mystery in him with noble and hopeful expectations. This alarms

him that “fulfilling life is a mission.” Hope does not die itself even

in the atmosphere of hopelessness but it always makes the fire flare

provided by the given opportunities to one’s life. By being sensitive

to those opportunities, he elevates himself from the realm of hors de

combat and gets into the track of dynamic situations with day to day

experiences. St. Paul raises the Hope into the theological level, telling

that hope is endowed with the grace of God. So those who actualize

this virtue will be moved by the Grace of God. Every day is given

to you with numerous blessings in the form of different reality; get

Thettininnapurayidam into it, so that one may be rejuvenated by them. Remember that you
George Simon (OSJ) have a ticking clock on your tail. Hope is not dead but it awakes
each and every day with new wings.

78 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Shangdiar
Lamkupar

“Hope is one of the principal springs that keep mankind in motion.”

Thomas Fuller

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 79

FUTURE OF
CATHOLIC CHURCH
AFTER THE COVID -19

Josey Niju The pandemic has caused the church to re-examine the way
she serves the community of believers. Many pastors have
felt the pain that followed an extended period of closure due to
reduced attendance, offerings, and gathering times. They have
been burdened with trying to figure out the right course to chart
in uncertain times. But the church is ready to rebuild amid a

pandemic. God reminds us that he is the Rock, and if we
build his church on his Word, we will make it. I would like

to stress some points which signify that the church
is still strong and it continues to grow as the same.

CORONA VIRUS HASN’ T CHANGED
ANYTHING IMPORTANT ABOUT THE CHURCH

There is a lot of changes in the liturgical styles
in the church but still We are the people of

God, gathered in the presence of God, to
bring glory to God. We still affirm his
righteous rule by living under his
command. We still love one
another with the same love

80 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

with which the Father loved the Son (Jn In most churches, the pandemic has required
17:26). We still testify to the truth and additional cleaning protocols. Our church has
power of the gospel before a watching hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes strategically
world. Throughout redemptive history, placed throughout the building. After worship,
God’s people have gathered to worship families take turns disinfecting every common
him in all kinds of situations many of surface. We want our church to be free of germs.
them less than ideal. They worshipped But there are other more dangerous threats
together as slaves in Egypt and exiles in to the cleanliness of the church. Thankfully,
Babylon, as wanderers in the wilderness the local church is designed to promote the
and as objects of Roman persecution. purity of each of its members.
The church in a pandemic joins their
faithful company. We may be six feet
apart, but we are still the church.

GOD LOVES THE CHURCH Our church has hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes strategically
placed throughout the building. After worship, families take turns
Going to church is rarely disinfecting every common surface. We want our church to be
convenient, and the style of free of germs. But there are other more dangerous threats to the
worshipping via live stream cleanliness of the church. Thankfully, the local church is designed
has elevated comfort and to promote the purity of each of its members. As we receive the
consumerism. When we can sanctifying word together, as we exhort and encourage one another,
hear a sermon and even interact as we cry out together for the help of the Holy Spirit, as we set a
with other church members godly example for one another, and as we warn one another of the
without getting off the couch danger of sin, we work together to banish sin’s destructive decay.
or putting on street clothes,
it’s hard to muster the energy
to actually go to church again.
But our fundamental motivation
for committing to the church
hasn’t changed because of
corona virus. As we are able,
we go to church, serve the
church, and love the church
because God does. Christ promises to
be present with his people when they
gather in his name (Mt 18:20).

THE CHURCH MAKES US HOLY

In most churches, the pandemic has
required additional cleaning protocols.

‘Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry.”

Padre Pio

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 81

THE CHURCH IS OUR FAMILY THE CHURCH HAS A
GLORIOUS FUTURE
As a Christian, we are part of the “household of God” (Eph 2:19; 1 Tim
3:15), which is the church. You have been brought into the family by God’s We may be discouraged
sovereign choosing and given a new family identity through the blood of by the apparent insignificance
Christ, our mutual brother. That doesn’t mean you don’t have to wear a and smallness of our local
mask to church, but it does mean that our fundamental family priorities churches. We might be tempted
of sharing our lives and caring for one another are not derailed by global to wonder whether the church
crisis. Even if we have the fellowship over Zoom and pray together over is going to dissipate with the
Voxer for awhile, the church is still a family. virus. But when the Lord allows
us to glimpse the realities of
THE CHURCH HAS WORK TO DO eternity, we see that the best
days of the church are yet to
Recent weeks have brought changes to many people’s work. For some, come. Listen to the words of
work-at-home is the new normal. For others, work has disappeared, leaving the apostle John: “I John saw
financial worries in its place. Even as businesses begin to reopen, many the holy city, New Jerusalem,
Christians will find their daily work significantly altered. The church has coming down out of heaven
work to do as well, and it hasn’t changed because of a virus. Jesus said, from God, prepared as a bride
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19). Declaring for her husband. And I heard
Christ, the Saviour of sinners, to the lost and dying world is a task for the a loud voice from the throne
church, and we are all co-workers in this job. Each of us pray for kingdom saying, “Behold the dwelling place
workers to be sent out and to have gospel success. Each of us contribute of God is with man. He will dwell
to the needs of gospel-preachers and other churches. with them, and they will be his
people, and God himself will be
with them and be with them as their
God” (Rev 21:2-3). The church has
a future, and it is glorious.

CONCLUS I ON

It’s becoming obvious that the
corona virus pandemic is not an
interruption nearly as much as it’s
a disruption. The new world will
be a different place. As a result the
church will be a different place,
same mission, just some very new
method. Here are four ways to
rebuild the church - Pray Not for a
Return to Normalcy, but a Return to
Being a Christ-Centred Church, Go
Smaller to Grow Back Forward, Be
Adaptable in all Ways, Always and
Return to People, Not Programs.

“Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life; rather, look to them
with full hope that as they arise.”
St. Francis de Sales

82 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Release of
‘Oriens’

Governing Body Meeting

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 83

MSFiFnSal PBroRfeOssTioHnEofRS

84 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Sunday Ministry
Animation Programme

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 85

Reception of Archbishop

Victor Lyngdoh

86 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

ANNUAL
LECTURE

Ye a rs of Priesthood

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 87

What shall we do? In the present STAYING POSITIVE IN
situation, due to covid-19,
we all have been affected by this THE MIDST OF HARDSHIP
pandemic, which has spread worldwide
and led to a dramatic loss of human surging (Psalm 46:1-3). The book in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
life almost a couple of years. The of Joshua 1:9 is ensuring us to be These three qualities will help us to
world is facing challenges in all strong and courageous and not to go on and proceed ahead with our
spheres; families, communities, be frightened or dismayed, for the aims and ambitions of life even
health care, financial difficulty and Lord our God is with us wherever amidst the present crisis that the
governments. Many people just we go. Practically, it is not easy to world is facing. These will heal our
wonder what will happen next, remain strong and positive, because emotional suffering and will build
their lives are uncertain. However, our senses tell us that there are many up our minds and thoughts with
in the midst of these unpredictable worries, fear and despair in life positive determination.
circumstances, it is only God who can which we are going through. But
give us hope. Because He is a God when we look to God, we can find What we need to do in times of
of Hope (Rom 15:13). We only need hope, we can look forward to many suffering and tribulation is to turn
to stay positive and continue to live wonderful things. Hard times and to God in prayer. Pope Francis says
our lives by trusting in His divine crisis of life will always be there that prayer opens the door of hope.
providence. The Bible is ensuring that we have to go through as long He continues, “Men and women who
us to be strong and courageous. Not as we live in this world, but we pray know that hope is stronger than
to fear or be in dread of them, for it have to remind ourselves always discouragement. They believe that
is the Lord our God who goes with that God is there walking with us love is more powerful than death,
us. He will not leave us or forsake through thick and thin. and that it will surely triumph one
us (Deut 31:6). day, even if in times and ways we
St. Paul tells us what we need do not know.”
In this difficult time, we need to do: to rejoice in hope, be patient
to be strong; mentally, physically
and spiritually. How to be strong,
how to remain positive while the
world is shaking, everyday more
negative news and stories have been
presented to us. The best way to
remain strong and positive is to put
all our hope in God, He is our refuge
and strength an ever present help in
trouble. Therefore we will not fear,
though the earth gives way and the
mountains fall into the heart of the
sea, though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their

Lyngdoh Wanlambok

88 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

Human beings are the image Development that things entrusted by God himself.
and likeness of God (Gen undermines the Moreover, we are a conscious
1:27). The image of God lies in the dignity of human being capable of knowing God,
totality of the emotional, spiritual is not development oneself and the world that gives
and physical nature, and we cannot at all. The world meaning to his own existence and
underestimate one over another. The is value-laden and the existence of other created things.
the highest of all In his capacity to create meaning
Haomuonlian Joseph values is the value they have transformed the world
of human dignity and brought about development
and progress.
dignity of human lies in the fact
that humans are the image of God, Development and human dignity:
the masterpiece of God’s creation, Development that undermines the
a reflection of God’s power and dignity of human is not development
glory, an expression of his love, at all. The world is value-laden and
extension of his will, product of his the highest of all values is the value
intellect, steward of other created of human dignity. Therefore, the
dignity of person cannot be greater
than the worst crime or sin in the
world. Humans are capable of change
and transformation as they are the

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 89

product of nature and environment. one mistake does not deserve such Justice and human
To grow into maturity our needs treatment. Looking into ourselves,
should be met at a proper time and we all know that we are imperfect. dignity:
situation. Just as our spiritual needs When we just focus on the justice
are met by our God-consciousness, of the person we are fuelled up to Justice is needed in our society.
our emotional needs are met by love, punish the perpetrator in any worst Any crimes must be given a fitting
peace, joy and appreciation of our possible and inhuman way. The punishment proportionate to the
dignity. When a person’s spiritual idea of forgiveness has no place in crimes committed in order to
and emotional needs are not met the hearts and minds of those who correct them. Whenever crimes are
at a proper stage of growth, they want justice. Sometimes the general committed we need to show our
become disoriented in life and do public takes the law into their hands solidarity with the victim; but we
not conform to their nature as social to punish the perpetrator to the must allow the family of the victim
and relational being. This is where satisfaction of their anger; but later whether to forgive or ask the law of
we have failed in our responsibility realized that whatever was acted the state to give fitting punishment
to provide healthy environment for upon was just an outburst of anger.
the proper growth and development
of children to maturity in all aspects.
All developments must enhance
human growth to enable humans
to realize themselves.

Im perfections and

human dignity:

There is sufficient reason for
everything. If a person misbehaves
it is not a moment to judge, criticise
and put him/her down; but rather to
understand and show him/her our love
and care. He/she may be physically,
spiritually and psychologically sick.
Just as we are treated with medicines
physically, psychologically and
spiritually we need treatment. Our
judgements, condemnations are
not medicines, but a poison that
worsen the sickness of the person.
Understanding and acceptance can
give a chance for transformation in
his/her life.There is incidences where
due to misbehaviour or mistake,
people have been paraded naked in
public. If we put ourselves into the
shoe of the person, we will know that

“Hope springs eternal in the human breast.”

Alexander Pope

90 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

to the perpetrator. We should not take New Born
law and order into our hands to treat the Year
perpetrator inhumanly and violently. We,
as parents, teachers and society are the
cause of their disorientation. Therefore,
we should not be the first one to judge
and punish them for their bad conduct.
God has never loss hope on any person
whether it be the best or the worst person
in the world. God is greater than the
person, person than life, and life greater
than crimes. Therefore, death sentence
cam never be a proportionate punishment
for the worst crime or sin in the world.

Gossip and human dignity: As we enter into the New Year,

Objectivity and truth is being undermined Let’s forget all our sorrows and fear.
by the habit of backbiting. This habit Remember all the good things God has made.
denies hope in the person as if he/she will Have faith that it will never fade.
remain the same forever. Even when we Hope for the coming year to be peaceful
loose hope in the person, God can still And royal for the poor to be blessed,
work miracles through him/her. We can Rich to be loyal, for the leaders to be merciful.
never know what glory awaits for such Soldier to be praised
persons in the future. Let’s accept the And the voice of the honest to be raised.
person as he/she is and acknowledge his Let the nature be adorned and nation be protected.
capacity to change. St. James in his letter The diseased to be cared for and healed.
says that the tongue is like a fire which Let the merciless people walk in the right way
stains the whole body and set on fire the And every one see success in life is gay.
cycle of nature and is itself set on fire
by hell (Jas 3:6).We have destroyed our
image, the image of others and the image
of the church by the misuse of our tongue.

Conclusion:

The inherent dignity of human person Mardi Nicodin
can never be erased by any crimes in the
world. Therefore human dignity must be Oriens Theological College, Shillong 91
the criterion to judge moral questions
and the merits and demerits of scientific
development that comes up in the society.
Humans can never be accepted as an
object of experiment and that no one has
the right to manipulate the ignorance and
weaknesses of another human person.

Querida
Amazonia ;

A Message of Hope

James Chapao and a chance to pause, reflect and are oppressed due to devastation of
contemplate on the life situation the safety environment; as a result
The Apostolic Exhortation of of our own land and on the Lord many natives have a migrated to the
Pope Francis Querida Amazonia of creation, who made all things outskirts of the modern cities, where
(BelovedAmazon) is a clarion call to out of His love. It is determined they face all forms of enslavement,
the universal Church to have closer plea for us to hear the cry of all our discrimination and lack of identity.
look at hazardous situation prevailing suffering brothers and sisters, within There is a close relationship between
in the Amazon region. The existing the Amazon and around the world. nature and human beings (QA.
situation in the Amazonian region And it is a golden opportunity for 41). We need to look at the world
is not totally different from our own all the people of good will to read around us because all creation is
land, India. So it is an opportunity and take to heart the core message interconnected and we have the
of it. It offers us an opportunity to responsibility to properly care for it.
reflect on what has happened in our When we destroy the environment
own land and to consider new paths which is a pure gift from God, we
and hope for a better future. What are destroying lives. Indeed, the
he says of the Amazon can be true earth, the water and the air belong
for us in our own area. to no one, but these are provided by
God for us all to share. Therefore,
Today many people in the world

92 Oriens Theological College, Shillong

with Amazonia features (QA. 7). We poor and the cry of the earth are the
are invited to live out Pope Francis’ voice of the Lord that calls out to
dream of a Church that stands with us to give ourselves totally to help
the poor, that embraces the cultural them in their need.
riches of the local Church and that
contemplates the beauty of our land Pope Francis also asks us to see
and sea as a sacred gift of God en- the suffering Jesus in the poor. Often
trusted to our care, for us and for our the poor, the indigenous, migrants
future children and grandchildren. and refugees are marginalized. Ev-
Every Christian needs to stand in eryone is a child of God and has the
solidarity with our brothers and right to be freed and their human
sisters, listening to their cry and dignity respected. Every culture
extending our helping hand as our deserves respect and its ways of life
own siblings. For, the cry of the ought to be respected. Therefore,
the Pope reminds us that the Lord
is perfectly just, and he demands
justice for his poor ones. Now, it is
the duty of every Christian to join
hands together in prayer to be freed
from the hands of oppressors and
that everyone might enjoy true peace
and prosperity. And this is possible
by the practice of Christian value
in every culture. To be a Catholic,
we need to promote indigenous
culture and protect God’s created
world, only then we can fulfill
Pope’s dream to make the Church
the universal sacrament of salvation
in every culture and tradition.

we all have the responsibility to care
for our common home individually
and collectively.

The dreams of Pope Francis on
Amazon region is a message of hope
for the whole world where the voices
of the poor can be heard and their
dignity advanced, preserving the
distinctive cultural riches, preserving
the overwhelming natural beauty and
building of Christian community
capable of generous commitment

“Live in faith and hope, though it be in darkness, for in this darkness
God protects the soul.”
St. John of the Cross

Oriens Theological College, Shillong 93

“Faith is the assurance of things hoped for,
the conviction of things not seen” (Heb 11:1)

Arun Rongpi Today, the internet or the social media is flooded with the
uncountable tragic events while the netizens pouring out their
94 Oriens Theological College, Shillong unending emotions in the social media with the comments like
“it’s so sad to know that, what the hell is this, can anyone help
him/her, what is happening in our world today, can someone
do something to stop this”, so on and so forth.

We all are aware of the coup in Myanmar. Since
1stof February Myanmar has been gripped by the
mass protests demanding the release of their elected
leader Aung San Suu Kyi and to end the military rule.
Amidst this turbulence, there is a heart touching story that
has gone viral on the internet: the picture of a young 19-year-old girl
with a caption on her T-Shirt “Everything Will Be Okay”. What
moved me is the attitude of this young girl with the name Kyal Sin,
commonly known as Angel. Before the military killed her by shooting
on her head, she had written the details about her blood type on her
Facebook page and that her organs be donated if she gets killed in
the event. She has a hope that everything will be okay. This has
inspired thousands of people around the world especially the people
of Myanmar to keep fighting against injustice, giving them hope that
things will be okay one day.

Many writers and scholars are of the opinion The empirical and analysis-oriented mind of today
that the 21st century is one of the bloodiest will hardly blame God for any tragedy of the time,
centuries ever taking thousands of innocent lives rather they would blame the limitation of technological
through man-made calamities and sometimes advancement or some human error. But a man who
natural calamities, and the memory of the trust in God would say, “I know that you can do all
catastrophic and horrific horror caused by the things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted”
Novel Covid-19, still lingering in our minds. (Job 42:2); “Why are you cast down my soul, hope
The fight still continues. All these events can in God, for I shall praise Him again, my help and my
simply put us down and kill the little flame God” (Ps 43:5).
of hope flickering in our hearts.
Like the psalmist let us pray even in the midst of the
Can death, failures, disease or plaques toughest times of our life, “For you, O Lord, my hope,
conquer the hearts of man? Nothing can, but my trust, O Lord, from my youth” (Ps 71:5)Because
courage and the readiness to fight and defend Jesus said, “If you are able- All things can be done for
themselves. Creativity and hardworks had the one who believes” (Mk 9:23). When we are tossed
made man a winner, furthermore, he even has by obstacles of life, we are likely to be overcomed by
a greater Being to whom he can rely on in his depression and discouragement. But imitating the fathers
weakness and failures. History has proven that of faith like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Noah, Enoch, Moses
people who depended on God never go upset. and all the other heroes of faith, wecan say with faith,
Justin the martyr would say, “In every man, “Everything will be okay.”
there is a Divine particle (logos spermatikos),
his reason, which at least before Christ’s
coming was man’s best guide.”The ability to
use his reason and posing a firm faith is what
kept man alive. If people before the coming
of Christ were able to challenge the various adversities
of life, can’t we who have already been baptised in His
name, face trials too with a firm faith in the rewards
which he promised? Therefore,

l Be strong and bold, because it is the Lord your God,
who goes with you: He will not fail you or forsake
you (Deut 31:6)

l Let us not set our hope on the uncertainties of riches
but on God, who richly provides us with everything
to enjoy (1 Tim 6:17)

l Let us not grow weary and loose heart in the
challenging times (Heb 12:4)

l Let us encourage hope for the future with a true
heart in full assurance of faith (Heb 10:21)

l Let us endure temptation, so that we may receive
the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those
who love Him (Jas 1:12)

l Let us strive to be found by Him, at peace, without
spot or blemish (2Pet 3:9)

“Every infinity... is made finite to God.” St. Augustine



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Best compliments from

1. Vincentians Northern Indian 38. Fr. Richard 82. Pertrus, Nagaland House
Province 39. Fr. Shiju Ikkarakkanayil,CML 83. Shanti Papachan, Qatar
84. Fr.Giphin Muttapally, Mananthavady
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8. Diocese of Manathavady
9. Divine Mercy Parish, Parish House, Shillong
43. Fr. Richard, VG, Shillong 89. Capuchin Theology Study House,
Mawnynsknery 44. Fr. Sylvanus Nongkynrils
10. Dominic Kapthang 45. Fr. Victor Shillong
11. Dr. Diana Patton 46. Fr. William V. 90. AI Motors, Kerala
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13. Fr. Albert 48. Jacob Minj Special Thanks
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15. Fr. Andrew Lalbiahfela 50. K. Kamlung Mossang 1. Gireesh Kumar, Trivandrum
16. Fr. Angelus 51. K. Somulung Mossang 2. Sreerag P, Ernakulam
17. Fr. Gabriel Laltlanthanga 52. Ka Syiem Jasigsnk Parish, Amlarem 3. Indukala S Nair, Kottayam
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20. Fr. James Tangshel 55. Mary Magdalena Bishphany
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22. Fr. John S. 57. Micheal Thanghoi 6. Dn. Arun Poyikayil, Urbaniana
23. Fr. John Zoduhsanga 58. Mr. Augustus Ekka
24. Fr. Joseph Olickal, Finance 59. Mr. Jelf, Shillong University, Rome
Administrator, Archdioces of Guwahati 60. Mr. M. Pauzakhup 7. Jomit Madathiparmbil, Wayanad
25. Fr. Joshy Manjakunnel, 61. Mrs. Juliana Mukhim
62. Nansaphika Andre Bassette Sohkhlet
Family Apostolate 63. Nativity of the Lord Parish,
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Kerla
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