Let us embark on a
spiritual pilgrimage, a journey inward to rediscover our identity as pilgrims
of hope. As men preparing for the priesthood, we are called to be examples of
hope in a world often masked in darkness. Our journey is not without its
challenges, but it is precisely in these trials that our hope is forged.
1. What is Hope?
Hope is an optimistic state of mind
that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes. It is a belief that
things will turn out well, even in the time of adversity. It is a desire
accompanied by expectations of fulfilment.
Essentially, it is a spark within us (fire)
that keeps us going, even when things seem bleak. It is the anchor that holds
us steady during life’s storms.
4 Characteristics of Hope
1.
Resilience:
The ability to bounce back from setbacks.
2.
Faith:
Belief in something greater than oneself.
3.
Desire:
A longing for something better.
4.
Expectation:
A sense that positive outcomes are possible.
Hope influences one’s capacity for
critical thought and decision-making, as well as one’s abilities, talents,
courage, and openness to new possibilities for learning and growth. Hope gives
them newfound bravery and restores their strength. This fosters a collective
optimism that empowers individuals to initiate positive change.
1.1 Resilience:
The Bedrock of Hope
Resilience is the cornerstone upon
which hope is built. It is the ability to withstand adversity, bounce back from
setbacks, and emerge stronger. It's about possessing the inner strength to
persevere through challenges, rather than being defeated by them. Resilient
individuals possess a capacity to adapt, learn from failures, and find new
avenues to progress. This quality is essential in cultivating hope because it
provides the foundation for believing in the possibility of overcoming
obstacles.
1.2 Faith: The
Guiding Light of Hope
Faith, often understood as belief
in something greater than oneself, is a powerful catalyst for hope. It provides
a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to something larger than individual
existence. Faith can be rooted in religion, spirituality, or a personal
philosophy. It offers a belief in a higher power or a positive force that can
guide and support one through difficult times. By anchoring oneself in faith,
individuals can find strength and courage to face challenges with optimism and
hope.
1.3 Desire: The
Fuel for Hope
Desire is the internal drive that
propels hope forward. It is the longing for something better, a yearning for
growth, fulfilment, and positive change. Desire creates a sense of purpose and
direction, motivating individuals to strive for their goals. It is the internal
compass that guides one towards a brighter future. Without desire, hope can
become stagnant and lose its potency.
1.4 Expectation:
The Anchor of Hope
Expectation is the belief that
positive outcomes are possible. It is the anchor that keeps hope grounded in
reality while reaching for the future. It involves envisioning desired
possibilities and believing in the likelihood of their occurrence. Expectation
is not merely wishful thinking but a cognitive process that involves assessing
probabilities and considering potential paths to achieve desired goals. It
provides the mental framework for hope to flourish and grow.
Thus, hope entails a desire for
something that is valuable; a positive belief that is to achieve though what is
to be achieved is uncertain and trust in the resources within and without
(internal and external).
2. What is a Pilgrimage?
A pilgrimage is a journey to a sacred
place or site for spiritual or religious reasons. It is often seen as a way to
deepen one’s faith, seek spiritual growth, or fulfil a personal vow.
Pilgrimages are found in all religions and cultures.
4 Characteristics of
Pilgrimage
1. Purpose:
Primarily spiritual or religious, but can also be personal or cultural.
2. Destination:
A place of significance within a particular faith or tradition.
3. Journey:
Often involves physical travel, but can also be a metaphorical journey of
self-discovery.
4. Transformation:
The experience is often transformative, leading to personal growth and
spiritual renewal.
2.1 Abraham’s Journey: A
Pilgrimage of Faith (Gen 12: 1-3)
Abraham’s departure from Ur to the
Promised Land is considered a foundational pilgrimage example. It was a
profound act of faith and obedience to God’s call.
Key elements of Abraham’s
journey:
1. Divine
Call:
God directly commanded Abraham to leave his homeland, family, and familiar
surroundings.
2. Uncertain
Destination: The specific location of the Promised
Land was not initially revealed, symbolizing trust in divine guidance.
3. Faith
and Obedience: Abraham’s willingness to forsake
everything based on God’s promise demonstrates the core of faith.
4. New
Beginnings: The journey began a new chapter for Abraham, his
family, and ultimately, the Israelites.
While Abraham’s journey doesn’t fit
the classic mould of a pilgrimage with a specific sacred site as a destination,
it embodies the spiritual and transformative aspects often associated with such
journeys. It’s a testament to the unwavering faith required to follow a divine
calling.
2.2 The Biblical Pilgrimages
The Concept of Pilgrimage
is deeply ingrained in the biblical narrative. It’s more than just physical
travel; it symbolizes a spiritual journey, a quest for a deeper connection with
God and a longing for the promised land, both literal and spiritual.
- Abraham’s
Journey: As we discussed, Abraham’s departure
from Ur to the Promised Land is a foundational example. It represents
faith, obedience, and a new beginning.
- The
Exodus: The Israelites’ journey from slavery
in Egypt to the Promised Land is a collective pilgrimage. It is a story of
liberation, God’s provision, and the formation of a nation.
- Pilgrimage
Feasts: The Old Testament prescribed three
annual pilgrimage feasts - Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. These
gatherings in Jerusalem brought the people together to celebrate God’s
deliverance and covenant.
- The
Disciples’ Journey: While not explicitly labelled
as a pilgrimage, the disciples’ journey with Jesus—while alive and after
his death—can be seen as a spiritual pilgrimage. They followed Jesus,
learning from Him, and ultimately becoming witnesses of His resurrection.
- Other Pilgrimages: Emmaus
Journey, St. Paul's Journey, Journey of the Early Christian Community, etc.
3. Emerging Themes in
These Pilgrimages
- Faith
and Obedience: Pilgrims in the Bible demonstrate
unwavering faith in God’s promises and are willing to follow His guidance.
- God’s
Presence: The journey often involves
encounters with God, leading to spiritual growth and transformation.
- Community
and Shared Experience: Pilgrimages create a sense of
community and shared purpose among those who undertake them.
- Longing for Home: The ultimate destination is often seen as a spiritual home or heavenly abode.
4. The Seminary As The Pilgrim's Path
This is a profound insight for us. Is
Seminary, a pilgrimage or is it a pilgrim’s path? It could be both. For me, it
is a path of pilgrimage. Seminary can indeed be seen as a pilgrim’s path: a
journey of both spiritual and intellectual exploration.
Where do we end up if seminary is
taken to be a pilgrimage? As the common destination of a pilgrimage is
‘darshana’ (of a deity or temple), the pilgrimage of seminary can end with
ordination! If no further advance doesn’t take place, then our pilgrimage finds
an abrupt end. This is what happens to many of our priests after their
Ordination. Darshana has ended. No more intellectual or spiritual journey. Only
keeping the status quo.
If the seminary is a pilgrim path,
then, the real darshana begins in actuality in the place you are sent for the mission.
In both cases, one can take up the analogy of seminary as pilgrims of hope.
4. 1. Seminary as an analogy of Pilgrimage
As I reflect, find five characteristics emerging from
this analogy.
- Seminary
is a Library of Knowledge: Just as a pilgrim
seeks spiritual enlightenment, a seminary student seeks knowledge of faith,
theology, community, sharing, caring, living, forming, etc. There used to
be an ‘indexed’ section —books not be read without explicit permission
from the superiors—in the library before Vatican II, but now it is done
away with. Similarly, there are varieties of books in the seminary both
written and unwritten, moving and unmoving. Choose the right book—indexed
books read with extra caution.
- Pilgrimage
of Personal Transformation: Both journeys
involve a process of personal growth and transformation. Seminarians
undergo significant spiritual and intellectual development. It is an
ongoing process of Writing and rewriting, reading and re-reading, making,
breaking and remaking.
- It
is a Path of Community and Shared Experience:
Like pilgrims who often travel in groups, seminary students form a
community that supports and challenges each other. It is a place of
learning to question and answer, express critique and accept critique. There are various kinds of groups in the
seminary aiming for different purposes: spiritual, social, intellectual,
psycho-sexual, etc. growth. In all these areas, learn to
‘stand-alone-in-groups’.
- It
is a Cradle of Challenges and Obstacles: Both paths
have their challenges. Pilgrims face physical hardships, while seminarians
encounter intellectual and theological questions. The analogy of cradle is
significant: someone is shaking with a purpose. Mother shakes the cradle
to put the child to sleep for its own good.
- Seminary
Points Destination and Purpose: Like Moses pointed
the promised land to Aron, the seminary directs you for a purpose. While
the ultimate destination may differ, both journeys are driven by a sense
of purpose and calling.
In this sense, this place is a preparation
ground for a life of ministry, a journey of service and discipleship. It is a
time to deepen one’s faith, explore theological/philosophical questions, and
develop the skills needed to lead others on their spiritual journeys.
4.2 Challenges as Tests of
Faith
Just as pilgrims encounter physical
and mental trials, seminarians can face their own set of challenges:
- Intellectual
Doubts: Questioning one’s faith and
grappling with complex theological issues can be a daunting task.
- Spiritual
Dryness: Periods of spiritual aridity can
test one's commitment and resilience.
- Balancing
Act: Juggling academics, personal life, and spiritual
growth can be overwhelming.
These challenges, similar to those
faced by pilgrims, can be seen as opportunities for deeper spiritual growth and
a stronger reliance on faith.
4.3 The Community as
Spiritual Support
A key aspect of both pilgrimage and
seminary life is the supportive community:
- Shared
Experiences: Bonding with fellow seminarians over
common challenges and joys creates a strong sense of camaraderie.
- Mentorship:
Experienced Faculty can serve as spiritual and intellectual guides
offering wisdom and encouragement. Student’s understanding of the gravity
of the situation—we lack sufficient full-time spiritual directors—shows
your maturity which I appreciate.
- Spiritual
Growth Together: Shared worship, prayer, and study
deepen the spiritual journey for all involved.
4.4 The Destination: A
Life of Service
The ultimate goal of both pilgrimage
and seminary is to reach a destination, a place of transformation and service:
- Called
to Ministry: Seminarians are equipped to serve
the church and community in various capacities. The ministries that you
are involved in will help you to achieve this.
- Lifelong
Learning: The journey doesn’t end with
graduation; it continues as a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and spiritual
growth.
- Impacting
the World: Seminarians are prepared to make a
positive impact on the world through their faith and leadership.
5. Our Journey of Hope
The prophet Jeremiah offers a
powerful image of hope in his book: “For I know the plans I have for you,’
declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you
hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11) God's plan for us is one of hope, a future
filled with promise.
The Second Vatican Council's Decree
on Priestly Formation reminds us that the seminary is a place where future
priests are to be formed in human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral
dimensions. It is a place where we learn to be authentic disciples of Christ,
men who are deeply rooted in prayer and Scripture.
Conclusion
Brothers, let us embrace our identity as pilgrims of
hope. Let us allow the challenges of our formation to deepen our faith and
strengthen our resolve. Let us be men who radiate the joy of the Gospel and
inspire others to hope.
As we continue our journey, let us pray together:
Lord Jesus, you are the
Way, the Truth, and the Life. Guide us on our pilgrimage. Strengthen our faith,
deepen our hope, and perfect our love. May we be faithful disciples who bring
your light to the world.
Let us carry this hope with us as we
continue our formation, confident that with God all things are possible. May
God bless you abundantly
Questions for Reflection
o
How can we integrate pilgrimage-like
experiences into our daily lives?
o
How did hope influence our relationships
with others in our life in seminary?
o
How does hope interact with other human
emotions like fear, anger, and sadness?
o
How does the concept of pilgrimage relate
to personal growth and transformation?
o
How far have I been successful in
fulfilling the purpose that I chose?
o
How my pilgrimage can bring hope to the
people I will be serving in the future?
o
In my journey, over a month, what were the
ups and downs I felt?
o
In what ways can hope be a catalyst for
social change?
o
What are the opportunities and threats I
visualize in my pilgrimage?
o
What are the possibilities of personal
transformation I need to inculcate in this journey?
o
What were my expectations over the past
month/s? How did I fulfil them? How did it challenge you?
Fr. Raju Felix Crasta
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