Seminary as the Path for Pilgrims of Hope

 

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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’.
4. 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.
5. 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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Our Nurses, Our Future

Abstract: Nurses, the unsung heroes of healthcare, are pivotal in shaping the future of healthcare. They stand at the forefront of patient care, exhibiting compassion, expertise, and unwavering support to individuals and communities alike. Beyond administering direct medical care, nurses fulfill multifaceted roles as educators, advocates, and contributors to healthcare policies and practices. As the healthcare landscape changes, nurses are stepping into advanced roles, embracing leadership, research, and innovation, cementing their status as indispensable assets to the healthcare system. Moreover, nurses serve as mentors and role models, inspiring future healthcare professionals and contributing to cultivating a healthier, more equitable society. This talk will delve into the multifaceted contributions of nurses and explore how they embody the hope of the future, catalyzing positive change and elevating the health and well-being of society.

Introduction

Nurses play an indispensable role in shaping the well-being of the future. Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system. Nursing is not a mere profession, but a vocation, a call to serve humanity. They are the guarantee of health. They are tirelessly working to provide exceptional care, support, and advocacy for patients worldwide. The myriad ways nurses contribute to healthcare transformation, serving as beacons of hope and catalysts for positive change cannot be undermined. Thus, serving humanity is the greatest profession in this world.

The Crucial Role of Nurses in Patient Care

Let us begin by acknowledging the fundamental role nurses play in patient care. Nurses are the first point of contact for many individuals seeking healthcare services. They possess a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care, which is instrumental in alleviating suffering and promoting healing. From administering medications to comforting patients during times of distress, nurses embody the essence of holistic care. Moreover, nurses serve as patient educators, empowering individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their well-being. Through their unwavering dedication, nurses establish trusting relationships with patients, fostering a sense of security and confidence in the healthcare system.

Compassionate Caregivers: At the heart of nursing lies compassion. Nurses provide holistic care to patients, addressing their physical ailments and emotional and psychological needs. In times of illness or distress, it is often the reassuring presence of a nurse that brings comfort and solace to patients and their families.

Advocates for Health Equity: Nurses are staunch advocates for health equity and social justice. They recognize the systemic barriers that hinder access to quality healthcare and tirelessly work to dismantle them. Through their advocacy efforts, nurses strive to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, receives the care and support they deserve.

Leaders in Innovation: In an era of rapid technological advancement and evolving healthcare practices, nurses are at the forefront of innovation. They leverage their clinical expertise and firsthand knowledge of patient needs to drive improvements in healthcare delivery, whether through the adoption of new technologies, the implementation of evidence-based practices, or the development of novel care models.

Educators and Mentors: Nurses play a pivotal role in educating the next generation of healthcare professionals. As mentors and preceptors, they impart invaluable knowledge and skills to aspiring nurses, instilling in them the values of professionalism, empathy, and lifelong learning. By nurturing future leaders in healthcare, nurses ensure a legacy of excellence that will endure for generations to come.

Agents of Change: Perhaps most importantly, nurses are agents of change. They possess the unique ability to effect positive change at both the individual and societal levels. Whether it is advocating for policy reforms, championing public health initiatives, or simply lending a listening ear to those in need, nurses are catalysts for transformation, driving progress towards a healthier, more equitable future.

Advocacy and Policy Development

In addition to their clinical responsibilities, nurses are fervent advocates for patient rights and welfare. They possess a keen understanding of the social determinants of health and work tirelessly to address disparities and injustices within the healthcare system. Nurses leverage their unique position to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, advocating for equitable access to healthcare services and resources. Furthermore, nurses actively participate in the development of healthcare policies and practices, drawing upon their firsthand experiences to shape legislation and regulations that prioritize patient safety and well-being. Through their advocacy efforts, nurses champion systemic change and promote a more just and inclusive healthcare system for all.

Leadership, Research, and Innovation

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, nurses are increasingly assuming leadership roles and spearheading innovative initiatives to improve patient outcomes. Whether it be leading interdisciplinary care teams or implementing evidence-based practices, nurses exhibit exemplary leadership qualities that drive organizational success and promote a culture of excellence. Moreover, nurses are at the forefront of healthcare research, conducting groundbreaking studies that advance medical knowledge and inform best practices. Their research contributions not only enhance patient care but also pave the way for future innovations in healthcare delivery. Through their commitment to continuous learning and professional development, nurses are revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare and inspiring positive change across the industry.

Mentorship and Inspiring the Next Generation

One of the most profound impacts nurses have is in their role as mentors and role models for aspiring healthcare professionals. Nurses possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that they generously share with students and novice clinicians. Through mentorship programs and clinical preceptorships, nurses impart valuable skills and wisdom to the next generation of healthcare providers, instilling in them a sense of purpose and passion for their chosen profession. Moreover, nurses lead by example, demonstrating the importance of empathy, resilience, and advocacy in providing high-quality patient care. By nurturing future leaders in healthcare, nurses ensure a legacy of excellence that will endure for generations to come.

How do nurses contribute to economic development through healthcare delivery?

Nurses play a crucial role in economic development through healthcare delivery in several ways:

Direct Patient Care: Nurses provide essential healthcare services, including administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with procedures. By ensuring timely and effective care, nurses contribute to the overall health and productivity of individuals, which in turn supports economic activity.

Preventive Care and Health Promotion: Nurses are often at the forefront of preventive care and health promotion efforts. By educating patients about healthy lifestyle choices, conducting screenings, and promoting vaccination campaigns, nurses help prevent illnesses and reduce healthcare costs associated with treating preventable diseases.

Efficient Resource Utilization: Nurses are trained to assess patient needs and allocate resources effectively. By optimizing healthcare resource utilization, such as hospital beds, medical supplies, and staff time, nurses contribute to cost containment within healthcare systems, which is essential for economic sustainability.

Supporting Healthcare Innovation: Nurses often contribute to healthcare innovation by participating in research, implementing new technologies, and advocating for evidence-based practices. By fostering innovation in healthcare delivery, nurses contribute to improved patient outcomes and the development of new products and services, which can stimulate economic growth.

Job Creation and Economic Stimulus: The healthcare sector is a significant source of employment, and nurses make up a large portion of the workforce. By creating jobs and generating income for individuals and families, nurses contribute to local economies and support broader economic development.

Global Health Diplomacy: In global health contexts, nurses contribute to economic development by participating in humanitarian missions, capacity-building initiatives, and health infrastructure development projects. By sharing expertise and resources with communities in need, nurses contribute to improved health outcomes and economic development worldwide.

How does nursing innovation fuel progress?

Nursing innovation fuels progress in healthcare in several significant ways:

Improved Patient Outcomes: Nursing innovations often focus on improving patient care and outcomes. Whether it's through the development of new treatment protocols, innovative medical devices, or enhanced nursing practices, these innovations directly contribute to better patient health and recovery.

Enhanced Efficiency and Workflow: Innovations in nursing can streamline healthcare processes, making them more efficient and reducing the burden on healthcare providers. For example, the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine platforms has revolutionized how nurses document patient information and communicate with other members of the healthcare team, leading to improved coordination of care and time savings.

Promotion of Evidence-Based Practice: Nursing innovation is closely tied to evidence-based practice, which involves integrating the latest research findings into clinical decision-making. By developing and adopting innovative practices based on scientific evidence, nurses ensure that patient care is grounded in the best available knowledge, leading to safer and more effective treatments.

Addressing Healthcare Disparities: Nursing innovation can also play a crucial role in addressing healthcare disparities by developing solutions that improve access to care for underserved populations. For example, mobile health clinics staffed by nurses bring essential healthcare services directly to communities lacking access to traditional healthcare facilities, thereby reducing disparities in healthcare delivery.

Empowering Patients and Caregivers: Many nursing innovations focus on empowering patients and their caregivers to take an active role in managing their health. This might involve the development of patient education materials, self-management tools, or mobile health apps that enable patients to monitor their health conditions and communicate with their healthcare providers more effectively.

Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Nursing innovation often occurs in collaboration with other healthcare disciplines, such as medicine, pharmacy, and engineering. These interdisciplinary partnerships bring together diverse expertise and perspectives to tackle complex healthcare challenges, leading to more holistic and innovative solutions.

Driving Economic Growth: Nursing innovation can also fuel economic growth by stimulating investment in research and development, creating new job opportunities in healthcare and related industries, and fostering the commercialization of new healthcare products and services.

How nurses are cornerstones of the healthcare system?

Nurses serve as cornerstones of the healthcare system in numerous ways:

1. Direct Patient Care: Nurses are often the primary providers of bedside care, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with daily activities. Their constant presence and hands-on care ensure that patients receive the attention they need to recover and manage their health conditions effectively.
2. Patient Advocacy: Nurses act as advocates for their patients, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are respected within the healthcare system. They communicate patient concerns to other members of the healthcare team, help patients navigate complex medical decisions, and ensure that patients receive the information they need to make informed choices about their care.
3. Coordination of Care: Nurses play a central role in coordinating care across different healthcare settings and disciplines. They collaborate with physicians, therapists, social workers, and other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement comprehensive care plans that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.
4. Health Education and Promotion: Nurses provide valuable health education to patients and their families, empowering them to make healthy lifestyle choices and manage chronic conditions effectively. They offer guidance on topics such as nutrition, medication management, wound care, and disease prevention, helping patients take an active role in their own health and well-being.
5. Preventive Care: Nurses are instrumental in delivering preventive care services, such as immunizations, screenings, and health assessments. By identifying risk factors early and intervening proactively, nurses help prevent the onset of illnesses and promote overall health and wellness within their communities.
6. Emotional Support: Nurses provide essential emotional support to patients and their families during times of illness, injury, and recovery. They offer empathy, compassion, and reassurance, helping patients cope with the challenges they face and navigate the emotional aspects of their healthcare journey.
7. Quality Improvement: Nurses actively participate in quality improvement initiatives within healthcare organizations, contributing their insights and expertise to enhance patient safety, efficiency, and outcomes. They monitor patient care processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement evidence-based practices to drive continuous quality improvement.
8. Community Engagement: Nurses engage with their communities to promote health and wellness through outreach programs, health fairs, and educational events. They collaborate with community organizations, schools, and local governments to address health disparities, promote healthy behaviors, and improve access to healthcare services for underserved populations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nurses are the driving force behind healthcare transformation, embodying the hope of the future and making a profound impact on the health and well-being of society. From their compassionate care at the bedside to their leadership in shaping healthcare policy, nurses play a vital role in advancing the goals of a more equitable and patient-centred healthcare system. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, let us recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of nurses and work together to support and empower them in their mission to create a healthier and more vibrant future for all. Thank you.

Nurses embody hope – hope for better health outcomes, hope for a more compassionate healthcare system, and hope for a brighter tomorrow. As we look to the future, let us recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of nurses, and continue to support and empower them in their mission to build a healthier, more resilient society for all.

Fr. Raju Felix Crasta

What Message this Christmas has Brought to You?

25th December is Christmas Day, the day God incarnated and was born as Jesus Christ on the earth. It’s a historical time, a time from when the world separates history from Before Christ and In the Year of the Lord (Anno Domini), BC and AD. The Birth of Jesus brought revolutionary changes in society – religions, society, politics, and culture. Every section of society – theist, agnostic, atheist, rich, poor, persecutor, or persecuted – received a life message, and this message even continues today. What message does the birth of Jesus bring for us today?

When we read the birth account of Jesus in the Bible (Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2; John 1), we come across several kinds of people reacting differently at the very event itself. Some rejoice, some are sad, some are angry, some are hopeful, and some are curious. This kind of reaction is because of the kind of life they are living.

Jews

They were eagerly waiting for the Messiah promised by the prophets of the Old Testament. Those Jews who believed in the words of the Scripture rejoiced at the birth of Jesus. Their waiting has borne a joyful result. Simeon, a devout upright man in Jerusalem who was living in expectation of the “salvation of Israel,” thus rejoices, “At last, Lord, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised! For with my own eyes, I have seen your salvation which you have made ready for every people—a light to show the truth to the Gentiles and bring glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:29). But for those who did not believe in Jesus, it was the message of despair.

Mary and Joseph

They were God-fearing Jews, and the birth of Jesus was a joyous experience for them. Mary became the tabernacle for Jesus. But at the same time, amidst joy, for Mary, it was also a message of forthcoming sufferings in her life, “A sword will pierce your heart” (Luke 2:35). Thus, strong faith and endurance in faith were requested from her part. And this is the message she lived throughout her life and therefore, she is the model of faith for us today. For Joseph, it was a leap into uncertainty, and yet he remained faithful like Mary in fulfilling his paternal duty.

Shepherds

Though their world was free from worldly tensions and busy life, they too were looking for someone who could protect them and their livestock from enemies, who would guarantee them their future. The reward for their simple life is paid by the announcement of the angel, “For you, a Saviour is born” (Luke 2:11). They were the first ones to receive the message. How blessed they are! As a sign of joy and gratitude, they offer not artificial things but what they had at their best, the livestock, and above all, themselves. Thus, it was a fulfillment of the long-awaiting.

Herod, the King

For Herod, the news of Jesus’ birth was a shock. He thought the child would be ‘tomorrow’s King,’ and hence will snatch away his throne. This frightened him. The fearful person can go to any extent to destroy the enemy. Therefore, he orders to murder all the babies born in his kingdom (Matthew 2:16), before it is too late.

Magi, the Kings of the East

They believed in the scripture and its fulfillment. This is seen in their tiresome journey they undertook to an unknown place to meet the Messiah. God guided them through a star to reach the place. Upon reaching they offered the costliest royal gifts they could offer. They were not proud like Herod nor did they feel jealous, rather believed in the Child and worshipped Him. Therefore, God revealed to them what Herod was trying to do, “Do not go back to your kingdom through the land of Herod, for he is planning to kill the child.” Thus, the birth of Jesus was a message of accomplishment of their life’s longing.

Pharisees and Sadducees

These are the religious leaders who knew the scriptures thoroughly and were supposed to explain their meaning to the people. But, instead of doing it, they always burdened people by interpreting and reinterpreting them according to their convenience, let alone practicing it. When the law itself is born in the form of Jesus, the custodians of the law cannot recognize it. Later, Jesus’ every action and preaching become a challenge and threat to their survival. Thus, the birth of Jesus brought hard times for these ‘sophisticated’ religious leaders.

Christmas Today

In today’s context, the promised people are the believers who live a life worthy of their call. They are the morally upright people. For such people, the Nativity of Jesus brings the message of joy, hope, and peace. But for those people who ‘claim to be morally upright,’ the message may not be of peace, joy, and hope.

The ‘Marys’ and ‘Josephs’ are those who do the “will of God.” They are strong in their faith and do not get disturbed when the ‘sword pierces’ their heart. They don’t get disappointed when everything is taken away from them or when severely persecuted for the faith they practice. They are the living saints amidst us. When I live according to the call I have received or live according to my conscience, I will be blessed by God Himself as Simeon and Anna were blessed, ‘with visions, and long life, and live until I see the glory of God,’ or like Magi who saw the star as guiding light, and a revelation of future calamity.

The ‘Pharisees,’ ‘Sadducees,’ and ‘Herods’ are those who mislead people and think that they are above society, culture, traditions, and law. They make laws, rules, and regulations and burden the weaker section of society. In the pretext of construction, they destroy the essential bond. These are the people who persecute the ‘people of God.’ Can Christmas be the message of peace for them? Obviously ‘no’. They will be living in the turbulence of their heart, ever disturbed and without peace.

Who am I? Am I a Pharisee, a Sadducee, or a Herod trying to bring division in my family, my neighbourhood, and my society? Or am I the ‘Marys’ and ‘Josephs,’ and the ‘shepherds’ and ‘Magis’ who live an upright life, who have no guile in the heart? When families are broken due to silly misunderstandings, when couples divorce just for the sake of selfish motives, when innocent people are put in jail when the people are thrashed for the creed and culture they follow; when a helpless girl is molested, raped, and mercilessly killed; when the child to be born is aborted because of its gender; when the poor are burdened with heavy taxes and loans that they cannot repay, can I say the birth of Jesus has brought happy news for such people?

Christmas can also bring a blend of joys and sorrows: it is a joy for those who have more, but it is a sorrow for those who have not; it is a joy for shopkeepers, but sorrow for parents who don’t have extra money to buy gifts for their children, family, and friends; it is a joy for a drunkard to make merry, but it is a sorrow for his family. It is a joy to come together as one family, but it is a sorrow for those who miss their loved ones due to unavoidable reasons. Amidst these confusions, conflicts, contrasts, and confrontations; the question arises, ‘What is the message this Christmas has brought to you?’ For some people, the true meaning of Christmas is the warmth and love of our families; a celebration of the home/homely atmosphere. For some others, the real meaning of Christmas is love for others or goodwill towards men and women. For some, it is singing carols; for others, it is making a fabulous, attractive, and charming crib. But the real meaning of Christmas lies in the message of the ‘incarnation’ or “the Word becoming flesh” or transcendent God becoming one among us (Emmanuel - Matthew 1:23). ‘The Word becoming flesh’ does not mean that we have to learn to be flesh. It means that we may become more like God in our words and deeds, in loving, sharing, caring, and forgiving. In other words, Jesus has not come to appreciate the status of life in which we live; rather he has come to give us a life that cannot be achieved by our flesh.

Stop for a while in front of the Crib at the Church and look at the Babe Jesus in the bosom of Mary. Reflect for a while, that in such a helpless situation, in the manger, a happy family is rejoicing and singing the glory of God, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those who are of good will.” God has sent His only begotten son, Jesus to this world not to destroy you and me, but to save you and me from every kind of evil. He came to this earth to make this world a paradise where you and I can reunite with our God. Thus, Christmas is a celebration of reconciliation, a homecoming, a joyful, sharing, and a peaceful event. It is a celebration of justice and equality where we all become the children of One God.

Rev. Dr. Raju Felix Crasta

Professor of Philosophy and Religion 

St. Albert’s Institute of Philosophy, Ranchi