volume: xxii issue: 2 july 2019 · the twelve. jesus singled him out, and invited him to see and...

VOLUME: XXII ISSUE: 2 JULY 2019

JULY 2019Volume: XXII Issue: 2

Printer & PublisherRev. Dr Philip Nedumthuruthil VC

Chief EditorRev. Fr Mathew Thadathil VC

ChairmanRev. Dr Augustine Vallooran VC

General ManagerY. Ousepachan

AddressDivine Voice, Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor P.O., Chalakudy - 680 309, Kerala, India, Ph: 0480 2708413, 2708513

EditorThomas Jacob

Section EditorsSr Savio CSAMaria Sangeetha

Cover DesignMejo

LayoutSijo Sunny

PrintingDivine Printers & Publishers

05

07

09

11

13

15

19

2527 to 28

29

3214, 17,

18, 23,

24, 31,

34

“Let me see again” (Mk10:51)

Humans are weak and powerless

Who is Jesus Christ?

What is required for Jesus to heal us

He fought the good fight, finishing the race keeping the faith — a tribute

Be still...

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13)

Hallowed be Thy name

The ultimate proof

News

Testimonies

- Thomas Jacob

- Rev Dr John Prince Puthenpurackal VC

- Dr Remila George

- Rev Fr George Panackal VC

- Rev Fr Mathew Naickomparambil VC

- Pope Francis

- Rev Dr Augustine Vallooran VC

- Maria Sangeetha

-Kids CornerLove and concern

Divine Voice july 2019

C O N T E N T S

3

“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life - that life was made manifest and we saw it and testify to it” (1 Jn 1:1-2).

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift

of God” (Eph 2:8).

Annual Subscription In India : Rs. 200/- Abroad: Rs. 1500/-

5 Years Subscription In India: Rs. 950/- Abroad: Rs. 7000/-

Life Subscription In India: Rs. 4000/- Abroad: Rs. 22,000/-

Make all payments - Demand Drafts or Money Orders or electronic fund transfer payable to :DIVINE VOICE (English)Details for electronic fund transferAccount Name : Divine VoiceBank A/c No: 0349-00421780-195001Bank Name: Catholic Syrian Bank, MuringoorIFC Code: CSB K0000349

Account Name : Divine VoiceBank A/c No: 37965227885Bank Name: S.B.IIFC Code: SBIN0008646

e-mail: [email protected]

Change of AddressIn the event of a change in your postal address, please ensure that you send us your Old Address along with the New Mailing Address.

Address for CorrespondenceThe Chief Editor, Divine Voice (English)Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor P.O.Chalakudy - 680 309, Kerala - INDIA

VOLUME: XXII ISSUE: 2 JULY 2019


Editor

When Jesus Christ appeared to His disciples after His resurrection; He greeted them, and showed

them the five wounds on His body. They recognised Him and were immediately filled with joy. The apostle Thomas had not been present on that occasion; when told of what had happed he refused to believe it was the Risen Christ, until he could see and touch, trust the evidence of his own senses. Thomas was present eight days later when Jesus Christ again appeared to the Twelve. Jesus singled him out, and invited him to see and touch, to doubt no longer, but believe. Thomas replied “My Lord and my God” (Jn 20:28).

The first part of Thomas’s response is not surprising, but the second is very surprising and unexpected. “My Lord”; is a response to the evidence of his senses. He recognised the Jesus whom he had known, with whom he had walked, whose teachings he had heard. The response, “My God” did not come from the evidence of his senses; Thomas had been granted a special revelation into the real nature of the Messiah, Jesus.

The apostles were privileged; they saw the Risen Christ, the mark of the wounds. In His first appearance, Jesus told the apostles something of what their apostolate would be; as he had been sent by the Father, he was sending them, into the world among the nations, to communicate his teachings, to forgive sins, to reconcile man to the truth and to God. To Thomas he spoke about faith; Thomas believed, because he could see; the evidence of his senses led him to acknowledge the reality of the Risen Christ. Jesus promised; “Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have come to believe” (Jn 20:29). Many find difficulty with faith, and struggle to meet its demands. Some are like Thomas; they want to know more, to see and touch before giving their assent. At the end of his gospel, St John states the reason for writing his account: “But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in His name”. The irony in this promise of Jesus is that those who see with the eyes of faith see with clarity that far surpasses Jesus’ own disciples. They see spiritually rather than physically. This is how Bartimaeus, the blind beggar could see clearly that Jesus was the Son of David.

The blind Bartimaeus is begging by the side of the road. When he “hears” that Jesus is passing by immediately he begins to cry out: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me” (Mk 10:47). This blind beggar has correctly identified Jesus with the Messianic title, “Son of David.” The people around Bartimaeus are embarrassed by what they would consider inappropriate behaviour. After all he is a beggar. But he is an insistent beggar and he refuses to be silenced. The respectable people do all they can to silence Bartimaeus but to no avail. Jesus obviously hears what Bartimaeus has been shouting and He is intrigued by this man’s insight. He summons Bartimaeus, who responds with full energy and comes to Jesus. He asks the blind man an interesting question. “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus replies by saying, “My Teacher, let me see again” (Mk10:51). To “see” for Jesus means, seeing the possibilities for faith. Jesus performs no act of healing on blind Bartimaeus. He simply tells him to go on his way and that his faith has made him well. It is his faith that has saved him. As soon as Jesus says this Bartimaeus receives physical sight but in fact this is only an added value. The story closes with a comment that gets passed over by many. Bartimaeus now begins to follow Jesus on the way (Mk 10:52). That is an almost technical phrase that means Bartimaeus becomes a disciple of Jesus. That gift surpasses even physical sight. Ironically this blind man becomes a disciple who follows Jesus; this is what faith does to us. Whereas many of the disciples of Jesus, who could see physically, were spiritually blind and they drift away from Him.

We say we wish to see Jesus, and we do see Him lifted up before us, at every celebration of the Eucharist. We see Christ, and He draws us to Himself, in the all the sacraments. The Christ we now see through sacramental signs, we still long to see face to face. This too is promised to us; Christ, who was exalted on the cross, was raised from the dead. He draws all who long to see Him to the fullness of happiness for all eternity in the vision of God, a joy that as yet we cannot possibly comprehend but as St Paul says, “When one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed” (II Cor 3:17).

EDITORIAL

5Divine Voice july 2019

(Mk10:51)“Let me see again”

Please noteDuring the week not mentioned above, usual retreats will be held.

Retreats for Children and Bible Nursery for Tiny-tots will be held as usual every weekEvery week the retreatants are permitted to leave by 2 pm on Friday after the Anointing Service.

FR AUGUSTINE VALLOORAN VCDivine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Chalakudy 680 309, Kerala, India.

Ph: 0480 2708098, 2708193

--------------------------- For more information please contact ---------------------------

30 Jun – 5 July..........Inner Healing Retreat

7 July - 12.................... Retreat for Couples

14 July – 19..............Inner Healing Retreat

21 July -26.......Power 2019 – International

Conference for Couples, Youth, Children

and Bible Nursery for tiny tots

28 July – 2 Aug ...... Inner Healing Retreat /

................................ Spiritual formation for

Evangelization and leadership for Priests,

Religious Sisters and lay leaders

Aug 4 - 9 .................. Inner Healing Retreat

Aug 11 - 16 ................. Retreat for Couples

Aug 18 – 23..............Inner Healing Retreat

Aug 25 – 30.................Retreat for Couples

Sept 1 - 6..................Inner Healing Retreat

Sept 8 - 13 .............. Inner Healing Retreat

Forthcoming Special Retreats in-2019 (in English)

Sept 15 – 20................Retreat for Couples

Sept 22 -27.............. Inner Healing Retreat

Sept 29 – 4 Oct............Retreat for Couples

Oct 6 -11 ................. Inner Healing Retreat

Oct 13 -18 ............... Inner Healing Retreat

Oct 20 -25 .................. Retreat for Couples

Oct 27 – 1 Nov..........Inner Healing Retreat

Nov 3 – 8 ................. Inner Healing Retreat

Nov 10 – 15 ................ Retreat for Couples

Nov 17 -22............... Inner Healing Retreat

Nov 24 – 29..............Inner Healing Retreat

Dec 1 – 6..................Inner Healing Retreat

Dec 8 – 13......Waiting for the Lord Retreat

Dec 15 – 20 ... Waiting for the Lord Retreat

Dec 22 – 27............Emmanuel Conference

Dec 29 – 3 Jan 2020...Inner Healing Retreat

At the DIVINE RETREAT CENTRE Muringoor - Potta


Dear brothers and sisters,

The Gospel presents two prodigies worked by Jesus (Mk 5:21-43), describing them almost as a sort of triumphal march towards life.

The two prodigiesFirst, the Evangelist tells of a certain Jairus, one of the synagogue leaders, who comes to Jesus and begs Him to go to his house because his twelve-year-old daughter was dying. Jesus accepts and goes with him; but, along the way, comes the news that the girl is dead. We can imagine that father’s reaction. But Jesus tells him: “Do not be afraid, only believe !” (v.36). Upon arriving at the house of Jairus, Jesus sends out those who had been weeping – there were also the women who were screaming loudly – and enters the room only with the parents and the three disciples. Addressing the deceased, He says: “Little girl, I say to you: get up !” (v.41). And immediately the girl gets up, as if waking up from a deep sleep (v.42).

7Divine Voice 7july 2019

Pope Francis

Inside the story of this miracle, Mark inserts another: the healing of a woman who suffered from bleeding (hemorrhages) and was healed as soon as she touched Jesus’ mantle (v. 27). Here strikes the fact that the faith of this woman attracts – I want to say “steals” – the divine saving power that exists in Christ, who, feeling

that a force “had come out of Him”, tries to understand who it had been. And when the woman, with so much shame, comes forward and confesses everything, He tells her: “Daughter, your faith has saved you” (v.34).

The two requirements for healingThese are two interlocking stories, with a single center: faith; and show Jesus as the source of life, as the One who gives back life to those who trust Him fully. The two protagonists, the father of the girl and the sick woman, are not disciples of Jesus and yet they are restored because of their faith. They have faith in that Man. From this, we understand that everyone is admitted on the path of the Lord: no one should feel like an intruder, an abusive person or someone who has no right. To have access to the heart of Jesus, there is only this required: to feel in need of healing and to entrust yourself to Him. I ask you: does each one of you feel in need of healing? Of something, some sin, some problem? And, if you hear this, do you have faith in Jesus? These are the two requirements to be healed,

to have access to His heart: to feel oneself in need of healing and to entrust oneself to Him. Jesus goes to discover these people in the crowd and takes them away from anonymity, freeing them from the fear of living and daring. He does it with a look and with a word that puts them on the road again after so much suffering and humiliation. We too are called to learn and to imitate these words that liberate, and these looks that give back, to those who are not liberated, the desire to live.

The outcomeIn this Gospel reading, the themes of faith and new life, that Jesus came to offer everyone, are intertwined. Entering the house where the girl lies dead, He drives out those who are agitating and lamenting (v.40) and says: “The child is not dead, she is asleep” (v. 39). Jesus is the Lord, and before Him, physical death is like a sleep: there is no reason to despair. Another “death” is to be afraid of: that of the heart hardened by evil! Of that, yes, we must be afraid! When we feel that our hearts are hardened, our hearts harden and, I allow myself to say “the mummified heart,” we must be afraid of this. This is the death of the heart. But even sin, even “the mummified heart,” for Jesus is never the last word, because He has brought us the infinite mercy of the Father. And even if we fell down, His soft and strong voice reaches us: “I tell you: get up!” It is beautiful to hear that word of Jesus addressed to each one of us: “I tell you: stand up! Go. Stand up, be brave, get up! ” And Jesus restores the girl to life and gives life back to the healed woman: life and faith to both.

PrayerWe ask the Virgin Mary to accompany our journey of faith and concrete love, especially towards those in need. And we invoke her maternal intercession for all who suffer in body and spirit. Amen!

MEssAgE


Jesus goes to discover these people in the crowd and takes them away from

anonymity, freeing them from the fear of living and

daring.

help. He said, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5). All those who complain that I could not do this or that about past deeds are those who cannot break the bondage of pride. He cannot reconcile to the thought that he is weak and powerless. I can again fall into sins. It is only the grace of God that can save one from this pit. This is the lesson we learn from every fall. We should learn rather than think of sin as a fall from grace. We need to realize that it is a lesson from God. That is the attitude we must acquire from sins and failures. It is a sure way to spirituality. I need Jesus because I am likely to fall into sin. This is the humility we have to acquire and cultivate.Our life is full of unexpected failures and falls. Once a man approached me, who was devastated with financial loss and bankruptcy. He was from a well-known aristocratic family. What he needed was a hiding place; a refuge from debtors. He could not reconcile to his fall. It is said that failures and falls will help you to get rid of pride and the abnormal faith in one’s own abilities. There are people who say, “I was so confident and proud of my good health. Suddenly I fell victim to this disease. Suddenly I had this accident which has fully devastated me”. May be God permitted an accident to make you humble. This does not mean that all who became victims of accidents become humble. Some may become desolate and

Fr GeorgePanackal VC

9Divine Voice 9july 2019

We are human beings and as such we are weak. How quickly we fall. All the great people of the Old

Testament had fallen at some time or the other. Adam and Eve who lived in the company of God in Paradise fell. The Patriarch Abraham and the race that God chose through Him also fell. Moses and the people whom he led to the Promised Land fell. We read all these stories in the Old Testament. David who was close to the heart of God also fell from grace. Therefore, we should not succumb to self pity or remorse when we too fall. Rather we should break our pride and become humble. Humility is the gateway to God’s love and His presence.“When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble” (Prov 11:2)We can fall at any time. We are so weak and powerless. That is why Jesus comes to us to strengthen us. Jesus advises us that one cannot achieve anything without His


ARTIcLE

10

desperate. That is not what is required but what is required is to become humble. Then the gate of success is opened in front of you. “The LORD raises up all who are bowed down” (Ps 145:14)Once I was preaching a retreat in a parish. We were going around visiting homes. As we were coming out of a house one parishioner who was accompanying me told me that the owner of the house is a rationalist. During my discussions and talk with the man, I also felt so. He was an educated and learned man. I did not have an answer to many of his questions. He kept mocking at me that I did not have answers to his questions. I prayed for him. After some days, I was preaching at the Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor. As I was coming out of the retreat hall, I saw this man standing in the queue for breakfast. I called him out in private and asked him, “How did you land up here?” He stared at my face and asked me, “Did you recognize me?” I replied, “Yes that is why I asked you.”He replied “I did not come for myself but for another person.” He said my son is a big problem. There is no peace at home. He does not obey us. I am afraid that if he continues this life he may end up as a murderer. I have realized that my knowledge and ability are of no use.”Once another person told me that I will not bow my head before anyone. I have a good family, plenty of wealth. I was not in the habit of going to church because I was reluctant to bow in the church. Now my back is fully bent with hunch back due to chikungunya. The lesson from all of this is that God permits falls and failures to teach us lessons.I recall the story of yet another man. This is what he said, “I had plenty of wealth and crores in banks. One day I fell ill. The doctor said that there is no cure for this ailment. I asked, ‘Can I get treatment abroad. I have plenty of money?’ The doctor replied, ‘There is no treatment anywhere in this world for this ailment.’ The man said ‘This is the moment I who lived all my life thinking

that money is everything, realized that money is nothing’”. Why does God permit this? This is the answer the Word of God gives. It is to teach you not to depend on yourself and your abilities but on the One who rose from the dead. Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint.”“For nothing will be impossible with God” (Lk 1:37)Once a person from Malabar, in Kerala came here to Muringoor. He had come to a nearby place to hear the Word of God. He came to me for prayer and we became acquainted. I enquired about him. He replied that I have come to give my testimony. I am a government official. I did not have children for nine years after marriage. I consulted a doctor. After one or two years he recommended a more competent and famous doctor. Seven years went by. We continued the prescribed treatment with great hope. But one day the doctor told me I have done everything possible and it does not seem to help. It is better that you adopt a child. Both my wife and I were devastated. We reached home, embraced each other and cried. Then we knelt in front of the crucifix holding each other’s hands and cried. “Jesus can save us.” We were weeping like children. We did not have supper but prayed till dawn and only got up to drink water. We felt great peace in the morning. We continued our life. After a few months there was a miracle. My wife became pregnant and gave birth to a baby boy. After some years we got a second son. This he said is my testimony. We need to recognize our nothingness and realize the power of God, trusting Him and praying with faith. This is what we have to learn from failures and pray with full faith. God is waiting to work miracles in our life.PrayerGod I place my trust in you. I do not trust anyone but you. Let me enjoy the fruits of your blessings, victory and good health. Amen!

Divine Voice 11july 2019

for this reward. Who is Jesus? When He received baptism from John the Baptist in the river Jordan, the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the form of a dove. A voice was heard from heaven, “Listen to Him, He is my beloved son and I am well pleased in Him” (Mt 3:17).

Jesus is the beloved Son of Abba Father. St John says, “God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life” (Jn 3:16). To the question how much God loves us, it is said Jesus answered by stretching out His hands, bowing His head, He died for each individual and for his sin. Those who believe in this and accept Jesus as the Saviour and Redeemer will get redemption from the inheritance of the sin of Adam and the consequences of original sin.

In her Magnificat, Holy Mother states, “My soul glorifies the Lord. My spirit rejoices in God my

Saviour” (Lk 1:46,47). Mary found her salvation and joy in Jesus Christ. Mary received immaculate birth not because of her merit but because of the merit of Jesus. In the letter to the Ephesians St Paul says, “For He chose us in Him, before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight” (Eph 1:4)

“God chose you as the first fruits to be saved through sanctification and belief” (II Thess2:13)The choice of the Catholic Church, the choice of all of us is not due to our merit but because Abba Father chose us as a reward for the suffering, death on the cross and the resurrection of Jesus as the ransom for all our sins. We are able to hear the Word of God because God chose us to be eligible

Fr Mathew Naickomparambil VC


ARTIcLE

12

“No one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6)We know the parable of the Prodigal Son that Jesus narrated (Lk 15:11-32). In this parable the second son of the father asked for his inheritance and after obtaining it goes to a faraway place. He squandered all the wealth and became a destitute. There was famine and disease in that land. He started starving. He got the job of a caretaker of a piggery. He suffered starvation as he could not

even get the feed thrown to the pigs. Then the Holy Spirit came to his rescue. The prodigal son thought, how much more happy the servants are in his father’s home. He meditated on the love of his father. He received the gift of repentance from the Holy Spirit. He retraced the long path he had treaded and reached his father’s house. His father was crying for the son’s return from the day he left home till the day he returned. The father saw from a distance the disfigured face of his son. He could make out that his son is returning with a heart full of remorse and repentance. He embraced his son and kissed him on his forehead. His son hurried

to explain his sins. “Father, I have sinned against you and heaven” (Lk 15:18). His father did not have the patience to wait for his confession, but called his servants and arranged a big feast.

Jesus said, “When a sinner gives up his sins and return to repentance there is great joy in heaven” (Lk 15:7). The prodigal son lived a sinful life. His father was in great pain. He kept praying for his son’s return and repentance. We do not see in the parable, father following his son and persuading him. When he returned his father and the heavens rejoiced in his repentance.

It is the responsibility all Catholics to fulfill the mission of Jesus. What is the mission of Jesus? Jesus did not come searching for the righteous but the sinners to return to repentance (Lk 5:32).

“There is salvation in no one else” (Acts 4:12)Lakhs of people attend Bible conventions inside and outside Kerala. The Holy Spirit is gathering the people for all these. The power flowing from the Eucharist brings lakhs of people to righteousness and redemption. Jesus offered His life in sacrifice on the cross as a ransom for the sins of mankind. As He had promised He rose from the dead; on the third day. He returned to the world and lives in all human beings through the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, “Here I am, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come and eat with him and he with me” (Rev 3:20); this is the most important and core salvation of all.

Many are cured of their ailments and infirmities. Many are filled with the Holy Spirit. God gives peace, solace and Godly contentment through the Holy Spirit. The Psalmist says, “Be still and know that I am the God” (Ps 46:10). You can experience God dwell in you and repeat this Psalm, to yourselves to get rid of the anger and hatred in you. Remember Jesus declared, “It is the spirit that gives life; the words I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (Jn 6:63).

He returned to the world and lives in all human beings through the Holy Spirit.


Reverend Dr Joseph Thondiparambil, a regular columnist of the Divine Voice

Magazine since the year 2014, and a profound voice of inspiring exegesis on the Goodness Television passed away on 20, May 2019, aged 69. He was to begin a new series of articles in the Divine Voice Magazine on how the human soul unites with God. It was God’s plan to fulfil this yearning that probably was within Dr Joseph Thondiparambil’s own heart for He made this a reality. His death occurred at Cairo in Egypt while on a pilgrimage to the Holy land. Dr Joseph Thondiparambil also served as a resource person in the Divine Institute of Bible and Spirituality at the Divine Retreat Centre and at the retreats herein. He was a priest who belonged to the Mananthavady Diocese. His mortal remains were interred there on 25, May 2019.

Joseph Thondiparambil was born on 18 January, 1950 to Thondiparambil-Devassia and Aleyamma from Kizhakabalam in the Archdiocese of Ernakulum as the fifth of their seven children. After his primary education in St Thomas School, he entered the Minor Seminary at Thalassery and then went on to Pune to complete his studies in Theology at the Papal Seminary. Ordained priest on 31, December 1975, he served as Secretary and Chancellor, from 1976 to 1980 to Archbishop Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy, who had ordained him. He also served as Parish Priest in the Diocese of Thrissery during this period. In 1984, he completed his Licentiate in Sacred Scriptures from the Rome Biblical Institute and thereafter, in 1989 his Doctorate in Biblical Theology from Gregorian University, Rome. From 1989 to 1993 he served at Martin de Porres Church, Oondangadi as Parish


TEsTIMOnIEs

Priest. From 1993 to 2014 he was Professor at the Pontifical Seminary in Aluva, Kerala, Vice-Rector of the nearby Aluva Seminary and also the Vice President of the Pontifical Institute, Aluva. In 2014 he resigned as Professor at the Pontifical Seminary, Aluva. Subsequently, he became a visiting Professor at various seminaries and was serving as a Bible translator at Pastoral Orientation Centre, Palarivattom, Kerala. He was also preaching at retreats.

The death of a priest is unlike the death of any other. In losing him, we have lost not only the man but also his unique way of manifesting God. His bereavement is in a way a deep loss in our very communication with the Lord, in the unique way that he, as priest, has done for us. Christ Himself indicated His special relationship with His priests when, He poured out from His Sacred Heart His own priestly prayer: “Father, I pray for those you have given me; keep them in your name; they are not of the world; sanctify them in truth; may the love with which you loved me be in them, and I in them. I ask not only on behalf of them but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word” (Jn 17). It was this union with Christ that guided and shaped the life of Rev Dr Joseph Thondiparambil. In his case this was so intense

and deep that it would be difficult to define his personality, even to conceive of his life, apart from the priesthood. His great love was for the Church, and his priesthood, which he shared with everyone.

Always courteous, humble and kind, he stood out for his diligence coupled with tireless hard work, remaining faithful to the Lord steadfastly. Virtues such as these are obviously the fruit of self-discipline and his fidelity to prayer besides simple living. He spent a substantial part of his life in moulding and training of seminarians. His ability to expound profound insights from the Holy Bible in simple lucid language was exemplary that even his students, which include priests and bishops, recall. He drew many people close to God through his messages on visual media and his written articles. The saying, “that he who learns to die daily while he lives will find it no difficulty to breathe his soul for the last time into the hands of his faithful Creator” couldn’t more aptly describe Dr Joseph Thondiparambil. Having fought the good fight and finished the race keeping the faith in his earthy life he now wears the crown of righteousness (II Tim 4:7,8). May his soul rest in peace.

TRIbuTE & TEsTIMOny

LLOYD ROSARIO, CALICUT “REJOICE ALWAYS, PRAY WITHOUT CEASING, GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES; FOR THIS IS THE WILL OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS FOR YOU(I THES 5:16-18)

I am a fuel injection mechanic. I attended a retreat at Divine Retreat Centre in July 2009. I was an active football player since 1971. I played for Kerala

schools, then for Calicut football clubs. I stopped when I joined a tough job of fuel injection as a mechanic. In 2009 I played football and injured my right knee. An MRI scan was taken and the doctor advised a keyhole surgery. With faith in the Lord I got operated and after surgery I went to DRC in the same year 2009. I was limping and needed support. I attended four retreats at DRC. I prayed for healing throughout the retreat each time I went there. Today I testify that I can walk normally. I received complete healing through the prayer of intercessory prayer group of DRC and my unceasing prayer for this gift of healing. I praise and thank the Lord Jesus. “DO NOT WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERYTHING BY PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION WITH THANKSGIVING LET YOUR REQUESTS BE MADE KNOWN TO GOD” (Phil 4:6).

15Divine Voice 15

A restless mind is unique to humankind. Addressing the restless mind, God says “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). Why and when do humans lose

their peace and serenity? Is all restlessness evil? Is there a restlessness that leads us to good? Is there trouble that leads to tranquillity? The Psalmist presents a restless heart in Psalm 77. He cries aloud with outstretched hands, praying in the night. He meditates; his spirit faints and raises several doubts and queries. His grief is that the right hand of the Most High has changed. He no longer experiences God. He doubts whether the Almighty has left him or not. His soul is wriggling like a fish out of water. This wriggling is a peculiarity to be found in all human beings.

As a detached branch gets dried up, so is the state of the man distanced from Jesus. St Augustine wrote “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you.”

A wise person is the one who understands the cause of his restlessness. He is like the one who has found the treasure in the field (Mt 13:44). St. Thomas Aquinas declares in the same lines that behind every desire of the creature there is the inherent desire for the creator. Gabriel Marcel says there is a vacuum within every human being which can only be filled by God. Restlessness, by and large, is linked to either nature or its creatures, but it always points to a firm Godly relationship which cannot be broken.

Rev Dr John Prince Puthenpurackal VC

july 2019

16 Divine Voice july 2019

ARTIcLE

16

The Garden of Eden represents serenity, a place where human beings experienced tranquillity and peace. However, this was lost due to a relationship breakdown. Minds got so separated that man was unable to face even the One he used to walk along with. All break-ups and the pain it generates are tremendous. This is true not only in our relationship with God, but with humans as well. “Know and see that it is evil and bitter for you to forsake the Lord your God” (Jer 2:19). This is true not only in abandoning God, but in the case of brothers too. One shall be at peace by receiving back all who were left behind.

Cain had no relationship, with God or man. Hence he remained undisturbed, even after killing his brother. “Where is your brother?” The question which God the Father asked Cain was a reminder about this broken relationship. He became restless as even nature turned against him. That restlessness led him finally into redemption and God could place His impression on Cain. Be the one whom you are called to be. You are to remain the keeper of relationships that God has called you into. Be still...

You should be at the place where you are supposed to be. The one who is destined to go to Nineveh, Jonah, on turning to Tarshish creates trouble, for him, and more so for the others. Even the waters

became turbulent. But the one who is the cause of all this is fast asleep! (Jon 1). You should be at the place which God has set apart for you. Come back to your ordained place and be still...

Martha is upset, even when Jesus is at home; like His apostles who were upset while Jesus was sleeping on board the storm tossed boat. Jesus tells her, “Martha, you are worried about many things?” (Lk 10:41). We need to come to a realisation of what these disturbing things may be. A young man listening to the preaching of Jesus is also worried. He is worried about his ancestral property (Lk 12:13). Even while you sit in front of the Holy Eucharist, do you not get disturbed? Listen to the great peace in the Holy Eucharist, which tells you “Be still and know that I am your God”.

The difference between the real world and the ideal world is sure to make you worried resulting in a big internal conflict. St Paul experienced this struggle. The struggle of falling back into sin, even when one aims to do well. Notwithstanding this, God says “Be still, you only need my grace” (II Cor 12:9).

All prophets were restless. They got angry with the crowd. John the Baptist was also agitated and said, “You brood of vipers...” (Mt3:7). This restlessness originates from the zeal for the Lord. Eventually, it is the distress about the corrupt state of the people. It is the sharing in the restlessness of God. “All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people” (Rom 10:21). When you agonize for the sins of the people, you will become a prophet. But when you become a prophet, you will lose your peace. When you agonize for your children at home, it should be like a prophet. Your restlessness should be so as to lead them to good. When a leader gets disturbed about the wrongs of his followers, it will make him a prophet. Hence, in restlessness, call out to others, “Be still and know that He is the Lord”.

When you agonize for your children at home, it should be like a prophet. Your restlessness should be so as to

lead them to good.

17Divine Voice

TEsTIMOnIEs

17july 2019

JACOB D’SOUZA, MUMBAI

RUDOLPH AND MARIA RODRIGUES, KUWAIT

“O LORD, YOU ARE MY GOD; I WILL EXALT YOU, I WILL PRAISE YOUR NAME; FOR YOU HAVE DONE WONDERFUL THINGS, PLANS FORMED OF OLD, FAITHFUL AND SURE” (IS 25:1)

“AND AFTER YOU HAVE SUFFERED FOR A LITTLE WHILE, THE GOD OF ALL GRACE, WHO HAS CALLED YOU TO HIS ETERNAL GLORY IN CHRIST, WILL HIMSELF RESTORE, SUPPORT, STRENGTHEN, AND ESTABLISH YOU” (I PT 5:10)

I am fifty eight years old. I have been frequently visiting Divine Retreat Centre since 2001 with my wife and son. So far I attended eight retreats there. Every

time we were greatly touched by the Lord and many marvellous miracles have taken place in our lives. This increased our faith and brought us closer to our Lord Jesus. My last retreat at DRC was in November 2017 with my wife and I prayed for the following intentions and God answered every prayer beyond my comprehension: my son successfully completed his first year of Masters in Computer Science in USA. The Lord freed me from business related liquor license issues for which I was earnestly praying for several years, simply because I was unhappy to enjoy the income generated from such business deals.

We believe with faith that the Lord will bless our son to complete his Masters Degree and make him secure with a good job in USA. We surrender our plans, decisions and our future in the hands of our merciful Lord and will testify in the assembly of God’s people after my son finishes his studies and settles with a good job. All glory and honour is yours Almighty Father in the name of Christ Jesus. During the last week of July 2018 we had attended a thanksgiving retreat at DRC. We praise and thank the Lord for the wonders he has worked in our lives. “DECLARE HIS GLORY AMONG THE NATIONS, HIS MARVELOUS WORKS AMONG ALL THE PEOPLES. FOR GREAT IS THE LORD, AND GREATLY TO BE PRAISED; HE IS TO BE REVERED ABOVE ALL GODS” (Is 16:24-25).

I, Maria am a working lady. I belong to the Charismatic Prayer Group and attend prayer meetings regularly. I also sing in the choir in the

church of St Therese of the Child Jesus. On 25 November 2013 my husband Rudolph met with a car accident along with his colleagues. All were serious and unconscious. My husband’s case was hopeless. He was paralyzed and the doctors said he would not get well. He was taken to Mumbai and was under treatment. I am a mother of three children. We had taken a loan for the construction of our house. Thinking of these things I was shattered. However, all of us trusted in God our mighty healer for nothing is impossible for Him (cf Lk 1:37). My cousin called Divine Prayer Tower and requested prayer for my husband. He received a message from the intercessors that he would start walking soon. We believed in the message and thanked God for hearing our prayers. My husband started walking soon and is now driving his car. For more than six months I suffered from headache and stomach pain. My mother wanted us to attend a retreat at Divine Retreat Centre. We attended a thanksgiving retreat wherein the priest called out my name among those who were healed and I received healing of my pain. I praise and thank God. “THOSE WHO WAIT FOR THE LORD SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH, THEY SHALL MOUNT UP WITH WINGS LIKE EAGLES, THEY SHALL RUN AND NOT BE WEARY, THEY SHALL WALK AND NOT FAINT” (Is 40:31).


TEsTIMOnIEs

18

ELIZABETH BENNY, DUBAI

VISHAL AND VIVET, MYSORE

“HE DETERMINES THE NUMBER OF THE STARS; HE GIVES TO ALL OF THEM THEIR NAMES. GREAT IS OUR LORD, AND ABUNDANT IN POWER; HIS UNDERSTANDING IS BEYOND MEASURE” (PS 147:4-5)

“CHILDREN ARE INDEED A HERITAGE FROM THE LORD, THE FRUIT OF THE WOMB A REWARD. LIKE ARROWS IN THE HAND OF A WARRIOR ARE THE CHILDREN OF ONE’S YOUTH” (PS 127:3-4)

I am taking care of family and also working. I got married on 30 June 1996. After two years of marriage, since I did not conceive, I consulted a doctor. I

was told that I had polycystic ovary and underwent laparoscopy to remove the cyst. This did not help.

During that time I had heard a lot about Divine Retreat Centre that many people experienced the power of God. Believing in God’s power I attended my first retreat there in 2003. I had an amazing and a wonderful spiritual experience. I was filled with faith that surely one day God would bless me with a child. In 2016 I conceived and had a baby girl who we named Mary. I had prayed for one child but was blessed with two more in 2018 and 2019. My faith in Jesus is strengthened and I tell about God’s power to all those who come in contact with me that His name be glorified. I attended my second retreat in the first week of July 2018 to give thanks to the Lord. I praise and thank the Lord for His mighty deeds. “THESE ARE INDEED BUT THE OUTSKIRTS OF HIS WAYS; AND HOW SMALL A WHISPER DO WE HEAR OF HIM! BUT THE THUNDER OF HIS POWER WHO CAN UNDERSTAND?” (Job 26:14).

I, Vishal am writing this testimony. We are Post Graduates, married for twelve years, working and settled at Mulund in Mumbai. I am Insurance

profession. We got married in 2006 and we did not have a child until 2015. We experienced a lot of pain and suffering not having a child for eight years after married life. We attended our first retreat at Divine Retreat Centre in July 2013 to pray for the gift of a child. We requested the intercessory prayer group to pray for us. During the retreat Jesus gave us a sign. I had a vision in which I saw the face of Jesus. During the anointing service I pledged to testify to the Lord’s favour within five years. Cherishing all this God experience we continued to trust in Jesus and prayed even after the retreat. We believe it is only through the prayers that my wife Vivet conceived within eight months after the retreat and Aaron was born in 2015. To give a testimony to the Lord for the best gift we received from Him we attended a thanksgiving retreat at DRC in August 2018.

At the same retreat on Wednesday early morning I had stomach pain while attending the physical healing service. However, I decided to attend the session and I did so. I could not stand for the praise and worship. I was sitting but participated in the entire session wholeheartedly bearing the pain believing that Jesus would heal me by the end of the session. During the session the priest asked us to repeat the name of Jesus many times. Upon eighth time I called out Jesus’ name my pain disappeared. I was healed of stomach pain. Praise the Lord. We give a million thanks to Jesus for this mighty blessing. I will proclaim His name wherever I go. “BUT PETER SAID, “I HAVE NO SILVER OR GOLD, BUT WHAT I HAVE I GIVE YOU; IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH, STAND UP AND WALK” (Acts 3:6).

Rev Dr Augustine Vallooran VC


Man was created by God with a glorious vision. “God said: Let us make human beings in our image, after our likeness” (Gen 1:26). In this

exalted dignity bestowed on man, He reflects the wisdom and the goodness of God. Man is able to think things through and know them through his reason. He is also able to make decisions through exercise of his free will and act. These twin capabilities of reason and free will enable man to partake in the divine nature, though in a limited way. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Acts 1:8)Jesus perfects the limited human nature by anointing it with the Holy Spirit. Speaking to Nicodemus, He said, “Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit” (John 3:5,6). Jesus affirms the necessity of being reborn of the Holy Spirit. Later St Paul reaffirms this, “Whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come” (II Cor 5:17). Rebirth in the Holy Spirit perfects what was initiated at our creation as human beings. We are created, endowed with intellect and will power. What the Holy Spirit does is to perfect our human intellect with unerring,godly wisdom and our free will with the power required to fulfil decisions.


ARTIcLE

20 Divine Voice

“The Holy Spirit will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you” (Jn 14:26)

Letting the disciples know what the Holy Spirit will do for us, Jesus said, “When He comes, the Spirit of truth, He will guide you to all truth” (Jn 16:13). We shall be led to the whole truth. Hitherto, the disciples could think and understand only along the thought lines and patterns of the world which are fleeting and imperfect, ridden with untruths. This is opposed to thinking that is in its godliness, changeless and true.Jesus spoke of His impending passion, death and resurrection to the disciples on three occasions. Despite these predictions reiterated thrice over,never did the disciples comprehend even an iota of what the Master had meant. This is blatantly obvious as evident from, the most unfeeling and contrary reaction of the disciples at each instance. The first time Jesus had prophesied, Simon Peter was bewildered and he took the Master aside and

rebuked Him, saying, “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you” (Mt 16:22). When a second time, Jesus prophesied about His passion and death, the disciples got to “discussing among themselves… who

was the greatest” (Mk 9:34). While Jesus sought to impress on them that the mystery of salvation was in becoming smaller to the point of total annihilation, the disciples were set on the path of becoming greater in the way of the world.The third time Jesus predicted the eventual passion, death and resurrection, the two disciples, James and John came up seeking glorious positions, “Grant that in your glory we may sit one at your right and the other at your left” (Mk 10:35). However much Jesus tried to teach the disciples the mysteries of the kingdom of God, their thoughts were very confined to the oppressive patterns of worldly thinking. They were clearly not opened to the lesson of the glory of the Cross. No wonder when Jesus was arrested in the garden of Gethsemane all of them abandoned Him and ran away. They were so desperate that the gospel describes that the last of the disciples took flight from the Master’s side even at the cost of losing the dignity of his cloth. “They all forsook him, and fled. And a young man followed him, with nothing but a linen cloth about his body; and they seized him, but he left the linen cloth and ran away naked” (Mk 14:50-52). They definitely counted their lives as far more indispensable than to be standing by their besieged Master. On the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit anointed them with heavenly wisdom, their understanding was illumined. Simon Peter was able to proclaim with an absolute conviction to the people, the mystery of the Cross: “Jesus the Nazorean... delivered up by the set plan and foreknowledge of God, you killed... But God raised Him up, releasing Him from the throes of death... Therefore let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom

Hitherto, the disciples could think and

understand only along the thought lines

and patterns of the world which are fleeting

and imperfect, ridden with untruths. This is

opposed to thinking that is in its godliness,

changeless and true.

Divine Voice

ARTIcLE

21june 2019

you crucified” (Acts 2:22-36). This realisation had effected a profound transformation in the way he began to understand his own experiences. He, who once shuddered at the very mention of the Cross, now in the anointing of the Holy Spirit could recognize the wisdom and glory of Calvary and could himself embrace the Cross with great joy. When he and John were flogged, “they left the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer dishonour for the sake of the Name” (Acts 5:41).

Peter could relate every human suffering with the cross of Christ. In his first letter he writes,

“Beloved, do not be surprised that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as if something strange were happening to you. But rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when His glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (I Pet 4:12-14). He is exhorting all the followers of Christ to go the entire way and enter the real presence of the Lord in moments of their pain. He explains that their suffering is both a share that they are chosen and privileged to receive from the Cross of the Lord and an assurance of the ultimate crown of eternal glory. “God is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Phil 2:13) The Holy Spirit empowered the free will of the apostles in order to fulfil the mission of Jesus. The Lord had asked them to wait and pray while He was in agony in the garden of Gethsemane, but they were too tired to comply with the request of the Master. It was the weakness of the will that the Lord described saying: “The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mt 26:41). It wasn’t enough knowing and willing the good, what was equally needed was the power to execute one’s decision. This will power that enabled the apostles to accomplish what God desired was endowed by the Holy Spirit. These very disciples who could not hold out an hour to pray with the Master even after being entreated several times, since after being anointed with the Holy Spirit, became men of prayer able to teach others to pray. St Paul tells us that it is the Holy Spirit who enables us to pray. “In the same way, the Spirit too comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit itself intercedes with inexpressible groanings” (Rom 8:26). In the dark hour of the arrest and condemnation of Jesus, the gospels present Simon Peter as having

This realisation had effected a

profound transformation in the way

he began to understand his own

experiences. He, who once shuddered

at the very mention of the Cross, now

in the anointing of the Holy Spirit

could recognize the wisdom and glory

of Calvary and could himself embrace

the Cross with great joy.


ARTIcLE

22

followed Jesus right into the High Priest’s residence. He perhaps gained entry through the influence of some highly placed secret followers of Jesus. Yet in that defining hour Simon proved the weakness of his will. He once had proudly declared his fidelity to Christ “Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away” (Mt 26:33). Yet he could not bear witness to Jesus when he was challenged by an insignificant servant maid as he was warming himself by the fire in the High Priest’s courtyard (Mk 14:66-71). Since after being anointed with the Holy Spirit, he could feel and assume the courage strengthening him to stand up for Jesus and declare that Jesus is the Lord and Saviour, even in the presence of the Sanhedrin, the most powerful council of the Jews. Peter attests to the assertion of St Paul on the Holy Spirit, “God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control” (II Tim 1:7). The disciples could not heal an epileptic boy brought by the father. The father complained to Jesus about their failure, “I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able” (Mk 9:18). We remember that they had been accorded the power right in at the beginning of their association with Jesus. “He appointed twelve, to be with Him, and to be sent out to preach and have authority to cast out demons” (Mk 3:14,15). It was clearly asJesus reprimanded

them a case of lack of faith, “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me” (Mk 9:19). After the Pentecost experience however, the apostles were exercising in marvelous ways the power of faith working miracles, healing the sick and raising the dead, even to the extent that the mere touch of their shadows brought healing. Human nature is perfected by the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. We will be able to carry out the mission of Jesus only when we are empowered by the Spirit of God. The Lord has asked us to turn the other cheek when someone strikes us on one cheek (Mt 5:39). This is the command of love that we need to obey exactly when it is most difficult to. When we are hurt by someone by word or deed, the natural impulse is to hit back. This is when we need to wait and pray for the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will pour love into our hearts empowering us to forgive the person who hurt us and to return good for evil. “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you” (Lk 1:35) When Mother Mary was given the message that she would conceive and bear a son, she understood nothing. Hence she was deeply troubled. That was natural. But the gospel tells us she opened

We are no longer discouraged by the failures of

the past and the frailities that seem natural to our

human nature; for we can reach out to the power

of the Holy Spirit that allows us to do the good we

want to and defeat the evil we despise.


ARTIcLE & TEsTIMOny

her heart to the promise of the Holy Spirit. She understood the whole truth of what was happening to her. She accepted wholeheartedly what she realized was the invitation to be the mother of the Messiah who would be born as the Saviour of the humankind. She also realised that she would conceive and bear a son not in the human way but in the power of the Holy Spirit. When this divine realisation came upon her she began to rejoice and praise God for the great call that was given to her. Christian life is to be lived not in the way of limited human reasoning wrought with miscalculations and further burdened by our human frailties, but in the supernatural light and power of the Holy Spirit. This is not being unrealistic but is the real possibility offered to us when we wait and pray for the Spirit of God to anoint us at every instance of our life. Every decision made, every step taken is to be in the light of the wisdom offered by Spirit of God. We need to know that there is more to life than what our natural reason offers us. A failure, for example, need not lead us to sorrow, because it could be the way through which God is guiding us to a greater success, because all that happens to us is according to a plan of God which is destined for

our good (Jer 29:11). Moreover, God is working through everything that happens to us for our good future (Rom 8:28). We are no longer discouraged by the failures of the past and the frailities that seem natural to our human nature; for we can reach out to the power of the Holy Spirit that allows us to do the good we want to and defeat the evil we despise. It is only through the light of the Holy Spirit that we will come to such a divine realisation. Waiting and praying for the light and power of the Holy Spirit will make our life truly Spirit filled and Spirit led.

PrayerLord Jesus, we thank you for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Enable us to wait and pray at every moment of our life for this promise to be fulfilled that our life may truly be lived in the light and power of your Spirit. Let us be able to remember in the moments of our failure and sorrow that you would never leave us alone. We will be defeated only when we will not turn to you for your power to strengthen us. Enlighten our understanding and strengthen our will that we may truly live led by the Spirit. Amen.

JUDE PINTO, TAMILNADU “PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU; MY PEACE I GIVE TO YOU. I DO NOT GIVE TO YOU AS THE WORLD GIVES” (JN 14:27)

I got married on 4 May 2018 and work for the Ministry of Defence as a Personal Assistant. I attended my first retreat at Divine Retreat Centre in 1997 and the second

in May 2015. I was having a void in my life since the age of twenty three and was yearned for the Holy Spirit in my life. I also suffered shoulder pain. In my second retreat after confession I received peace in my heart and then I received physical healing of pain in my shoulder. After this retreat I was blessed abundantly. My living and housing conditions improved. I am able to enjoy my work amidst peaceful atmosphere. I am now twenty six years of age and happily married. I understood the meaning of the Sacrament of Marriage. The marriage celebration took place well both spiritually and materially without any debts. I attended my third retreat in the last week of September 2018. When I went for the session on Tuesday morning at 6.30am, I began praising God to fill me with the Holy Spirit. While singing praises to the Holy Spirit I felt the touch of the Spirit and I am strengthened in my faith to believe, in spite of a lot of misunderstandings, clashes and problems our Lord Jesus Christ will never leave us alone. I praise and thank Jesus. “AND I WILL ASK THE FATHER, AND HE WILL GIVE YOU ANOTHER ADVOCATE, TO BE WITH YOU FOREVER. 17 THIS IS THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, WHOM THE WORLD CANNOT RECEIVE, BECAUSE IT NEITHER SEES HIM NOR KNOWS HIM. YOU KNOW HIM, BECAUSE HE ABIDES WITH YOU, AND HE WILL BE IN YOU” (JN 14:16-17).


TEsTIMOnIEs

SUBASH SEQUEIRA, THANE

IVOR ROSHAN D’SOUZA, UDUPI

LEENA PINTO, MUMBAI

“WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND HIS BLESSING WILL BE ON YOUR FOOD AND WATER. I WILL TAKE AWAY SICKNESS FROM AMONG YOU…” EX 23:25)

“AND HE COULD DO NO DEED OF POWER, EXCEPT THAT HE LAID HIS HANDS ON A FEW SICK PEOPLE AND CURED THEM. AND HE WAS AMAZED AT THEIR UNBELIEF” (MK 6:5-6)

“LET THE FAVOUR OF THE LORD OUR GOD BE UPON US, AND PROSPER FOR US THE WORK OF OUR HANDS — O PROSPER THE WORK OF OUR HANDS!” (PS 90:17)

I attended a retreat at Divine Retreat Centre in June 2018. During the praise and worship session, I worshipped the Lord in tongues. On the third day, after the praise

and worship, the priest called out seven names, in which my name was the last and announced a message saying, “Jesus has not forgotten you. He has written your name in the palm of his hand’ (cf Is 49:16). The priest again announced that few people have been healed of pain in their shoulder. I raised my hands and thanked God. He also made another announcement saying, “A few people who have had no good sleep for many years can sleep better from that day.” I claimed the message in the name of the Lord. It is over a month now that I am back. I have not had any shoulder pains. For many years my shoulders used to pain and I used to get anxious as massaging did not help. But now, I do not have any pain whatsoever. Earlier, I used to sleep on an average of four hours only. Now I sleep for six hours. I have lost some weight and am looking better because I am sleeping better. People have complemented that I look fresh and the dark circles under my eyes have lightened. Praise the Lord. “IF YOU SIT DOWN, YOU WILL NOT BE AFRAID; WHEN YOU LIE DOWN, YOUR SLEEP WILL BE SWEET” (Pro 3:14).

I am from Manipal Parish near Udupi. My first retreat at Divine Retreat Centre was in 1993. After that I have attended several retreats and each time I have been blessed

abundantly. In my very first retreat I gave up my smoking habit and in my second I gave up my drinking habit. For the past twenty five years I never smoked or had any alcohol. I am the living example in my surroundings. My faith in Jesus is strengthened as I have been attending retreats at DRC.

A gynaecologist said that my wife would not conceive for the second time due to a cyst. But through prayer my good Lord blessed her. She conceived without any medication and we were blessed with a healthy baby girl. We praise and thank the Lord Jesus and glorify His name forever. “AND JESUS WENT THROUGHOUT ALL THE CITIES AND VILLAGES, TEACHING IN THEIR SYNAGOGUES AND PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM AND HEALING EVERY DISEASE AND EVERY AFFLICTION” (Mt 9:35)

From 6 January 2018 we as a family attended a retreat together at Divine Retreat Centre. We were praying for jobs for our daughter Jessica in Australia and for

our cousin in Dubai. Fr Augustine Vallooran called out both their names during the retreat with a message of God’s blessings on them. By end of February 2018 both of them got very good jobs in the places they had applied. We thank the Lord Jesus for His great blessings. “FOR THE LORD GOD IS A SUN AND SHIELD; HE BESTOWS FAVOUR AND HONOUR. NO GOOD THING DOES THE LORD WITHHOLD FROM THOSE WHO WALK UPRIGHTLY. O LORD OF HOSTS, HAPPY IS EVERYONE WHO TRUSTS IN YOU” (Ps 84:11-12).

25Divine Voice

Dr Remila George

25

The Psalmist says, “Praise the Lord all you nations, extol him, all you peoples for great is

His love towards us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord” (Ps 117:1,2).

Who do you honour?Hallowed is the old word for praised and honoured. “From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the Lord is to be praised” says Psalm 113. The whole Psalm is a call to praise the name of the Lord. We bless thee for our creation, presentation and all the blessings of this life for the means of grace and the hope of glory.

We can ask ourselves therefore who do we most hold in honour? Who do we adulate or praise? We talk about adoring our loved ones as if we worship

the very ground they stand on. Yet we also know that we and they can disappoint. There inevitably comes a time when we simply fail to live up to others’ expectations of us whether in family or work place relationships.

The war cry of a ChristianWe live in an age of celebrity from sports, movie and pop stars to politicians, presidents and prime ministers. We hold them in special honour and then reserve the right to criticize them mercilessly when they fail to live up to our impossible expectations of them or we simply want to claim honour for ourselves. Indeed it is all too easy to idolize people and in a media savvy world to tear them down to our size when they disappoint. When our idols turn out to have feet of clay we become disillusioned.

july 2019


ARTIcLE

26

We have hallowed the wrong God. Far too many of us put our faith in everything in the world ignoring St Paul’s warning that “love of money is a root of all kinds of evil (Tim 6:10). God is the most important in the universe. A key word in this phrase of the Lord’s Prayer, “Hallowed be thy name is” “thy”. It is a word of familiarity lost in modern translations. We are reminded that we are in a close and loving relationship with

God. When we give thanks to Him our thoughts can turn to the great Creator in the presence of the great beauty of nature, from dramatic sunsets to spectacular views; in the beauty of flowers and in the song and flight of the bird, in the starlit sky at night, in the music, art, in the unsullied smiles in people’s eyes and the delight and innocent joy of children at play. Hallowed be thy name sets us in the right frame of mind for the rest of our prayer. We all need to pray, but the way that we do so reflects the rich variety of God’s way of speaking to us. One way which is most powerful is the prayer of praise. Praise is our weapon of first resort. Our understanding of the greatness of God leads us to despair of our own strength and to turn to God the only One who can make sense of the complex world He has created. Praise is the war cry of the Christian asserting God’s supremacy over the whole of life including the work place.

Live in freedom and wisdom by acknowledging the realityIn honouring God and His name we need not be in thrall to the good opinion of others. It matters not one jot what other people think about us. This does not mean that we can be reckless or cavalier towards the wisdom of others, but that what matters most is that we honour God and His name first. As king Solomon says at the beginning of the book of Proverbs, “How does a man become wise? The first step is to trust and reverence the Lord (Pro 1:7). What matters is not what I think of myself or what others think of me, but what God thinks of me. His opinion is what counts. By honouring God and His name we live in freedom from any craving for the good opinion of others, which is merely a form of self-centeredness, and we begin to live in wisdom.

As the Psalmist declares: The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom should I fear? The Lord is the refuge of my life; of whom then should I go in dread? (Ps 27:1).

Honouring God and His name also gives God the credit for our successes. We so easily want to claim credit for ourselves, to boost our own egos and pride which make us self-deceived, self centered, self-focused. It makes us unreliable and unloving. We too easily want to be “the self-made person who worships His Creator”. By praising God we unreservedly give all the credit as well as all the honour to His name. The Psalmist says “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever” (Ps 118:1) and may we always acknowledge this reality.

By honouring God and His name we live in freedom

from any craving for the good opinion of others,

which is merely a form of self-centeredness, and

we begin to live in wisdom.

27Divine Voice 27

Pope: do not be afraid to announce the vocation to the priesthoodVatican City - “Do not be afraid to take up the challenge of continuing to proclaim the vocation to consecrated life and to ordained ministry, “in the context of the affirmation that for everyone God has a project that grows and matures in freedom. The “need” of the Church of “men and women, laity and consecrated people who are passionate, set afire by their encounter with God, redeemed in their humanity, and capable of proclaiming in their lives the happiness born of their vocation” was at the center of the discourse that Pope Francis delivered to the participants of the Congress of the National Vocations Centers from the Churches of Europe, in progress in Rome. In the document Francis indicated three “guidelines”: holiness, as a call that gives meaning to the journey of all life; communion, “as a” humus “of vocations in the Church; the vocation itself, as a key word to be preserved, combining it with the others:” happiness “,” freedom “and” together “, and finally declining it as a special consecration”. Pope Francis reiterates his “certainty” that “the Spirit continues to arouse vocations to the priesthood and to the consecrated life” and therefore that “we can” cast the nets again “in the name of the Lord. Pope Francis stated that when young people encounter consecrated men and women who are credible, not because they are perfect but because their lives have been changed by an encounter with the Lord, they will have a taste of a different kind of life, and raise the question of their personal vocation. Today life everywhere is fragmented and at times wounded; the life of the Church is no less so. Being rooted in Christ is the surest way to let him restore our wholeness. The work of accompanying and forming vocations is a way of sharing in the handiwork of Christ, who came to bring good news to the poor, to bind the wounds of broken hearts, to proclaim freedom to those in bondage and sight to the blind (cf. Lk 4:18).

Holy See confirms changes to Italian liturgical translation of Our Father, GloriaVatican City - The Apostolic See has confirmed the translation of the third edition of the Roman Missal prepared by the Italian bishops’ conference. The translation has garnered attention for its changes to the Our Father, as well as the Gloria. The newly-approved Messale Romano will translate the penultimate line of the Our Father (ne nos indúcas in tentatiónem) (lead us not into temptation) as “non abbandonarci alla tentazione” (do not abandon us to temptation). The existing version had translated it as “non ci indurre in tentazione” (lead us not into temptation). In the Gloria, the line “in térra pax homínibus bónae voluntátis” (on earth peace to people of good will) will be translated “pace in terra agli uomini, amati dal Signore” (peace on earth to men, loved by the Lord). It was translated “pace in terra agli uomini di buona volontà” (peace on earth to men of good will).The Italian bishops’ conference had approved the new edition of the Messale Romano during their November 2018 general assembly. The Apostolic See’s confirmation of the text was communicated during the conference’s meeting last month. News reports in English may have given the impression that Pope Francis had changed the Our Father for the whole of the Church, rather than his See having confirmed a change made by the Bishops of Italy. The new Italian text is a translation of the third edition of the Missale Romanum, the Latin typical edition which was issued in 2002. The existing Messale Romano was a translation of the second edition of the Missale Romanum, which had been promulgated in 1975.UN declares special day to remember victims of violence against religionWashington, USA - On May 28, the U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution establishing August 22 as the Day to Commemorate Victims of Violence Based on Religion. The resolution invites all member states,

july 2019


nEWs

28

relevant organizations, civil society, individuals and the private sector to observe the international day and show appropriate support for victims of religiously motivated violence. In the wake of recent religiously motivated terrorist attacks, the resolution notes a serious concern for “continuing acts of intolerance and violence based on religion or belief against individuals, including against persons belonging to religious communities and religious minorities around the world, and at the increasing number and intensity of such incidents.” Poland initiated work toward the commemorative day, but united with Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Poland, and the United States to co-draft the resolution. Ultimately, 88 U.N. member states voted to co-sponsor the resolution.Indian Church congratulates Modi, pledges to work togetherNew Delhi – The Catholic Church of India congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his victory in the country’s general election and expressed its eagerness to work together for the sake of the country. Card Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), issued a letter. In it, he writes: “On behalf of the Catholic Church in India, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartiest congratulations to you and to the Bharatiya Janata Party on the emphatic election victory. The people of India have given a clear mandate for a stable and effective Government.” Addressing the Prime Minister and his government, the cardinal goes on to say: “I want to assure you of our prayers and best wishes for you and your team as you lead our country in building a strong and inclusive India.” At a public function, He noted that “we prayed that God give you health, wisdom and strength to carry out the great responsibilities entrusted to you. The CBCI president also focused on some areas that need to me addressed immediately. “We are all eager to work together for the vision of a New India which your Excellency has spoken about - a New India which gives hope and energy to our youth, empowers our women especially in rural areas, opens new and sustainable opportunities for our farmers and

strengthens our economy while leaving no one behind: a New India which enjoys peace and prosperity and continues to make progress.”Supreme Court suspends tax on priests, nunsNew Delhi, India - The Supreme Court of India has given temporary relief to priests and nuns who were asked to pay income tax for the salary they earn working in government-funded educational institutions. The top court asked authorities to maintain the status quo of not collecting such taxes and agreed to hear an appeal against an order of the Madras High Court in Tamil Nadu state. The Supreme Court was hearing a challenge filed by the Institute of Franciscan Missionaries of Mary to a March 20 order of the state court that said missionaries, Catholic priests and nuns should not be exempt from paying tax on government-assisted salaries. The top court posted the case for a final hearing August 7. “We are happy that we got temporary relief,” said Father L. Sahayaraj, deputy secretary of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council. He said the Church in the state was determined to fight the case. He said Catholic priests and religious serving in government-aided educational institutions did not have any income because their salary is contributed to their convents or houses “so they cannot be asked pay income tax.” The state court ordered an end to this exemption on the basis that they received their salaries in their individual capacity and that surrendering salaries could only be treated as “application” of their income. Their choice of application did not merit tax exemption, the court order stated. The case dates back to 2015 when Tamil Nadu’s income tax department instructed state-funded educational institutions to deduct tax from the salaries of priests, religious brothers and nuns, ending a long-standing convention making them exempt. Catholic religious teaching in state-funded institutions was exempted from tax even before India became independent from British rule in 1947. In 2015, southern Kerala state ended the practice and began to deduct tax from salaries. In northern India, few priests and nuns are employed in state-funded schools. While some states like Jharkhand allow them a tax exemption, others do not. The outcome of the Supreme Court’s order will have country-wide ramifications, including for states such as Jharkhand, said one lawyer who did not want to be named.

29Divine Voice 29

Maria Sangeetha

july 2019

This is the first of a two-part article on the relevance of obedience

When Kate Middleton was getting married to Prince William, there was a little yet significant

item of news. She would not take the vow of obedience. At their grand royal wedding, she would promise to love, honour, cherish and keep... but not to obey. We do know by now that this is the standard practice even in the so-called conservative royal family in England. In Christian weddings, it is only the bride who takes the vow of obedience, not the groom. Kate, by this decision became the impressive symbol of the modern, liberated, educated individual.

Obedience - the word itself conveys something unpleasant and archaic. It is something we have done away with. When we were children, it was imposed on us. At the first opportunity in our teen years, we shrugged off all forms of obedience in order to assert our identity. Obedience becomes unthinkable because it seems to be both demeaning and a meaningless subjecting, of one’s freedom to the ‘whim’ of another. Just as the powerful take pride to flaunt how others must obey them, the powerless are helplessly humbled by having to submit to another in obedience.

The word of God, however, presents a radically different and irreplaceable value on obedience. We come to see that obedience is the proving factor of the highest calibre of love, of faith and of worship.Right through scripture, it is clear that humans relate to God through obedience. Interestingly, however, the ultimate model of obedience is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

Highest loveObedience is the defining ingredient of ultimate love. When I love the other so much, I want nothing to come between us, not even my own will. For those who will not settle for anything less than the highest quality of love, they naturally take on the commitment of obedience. Jesus loved the Father so completely that His one seeking was to conform His will to the Father’s. The relationship Jesus had with the Father was based on the plank of obedience. He was equal to the Father and yet, that oneness with God the Father, was accomplished by submitting Himself in obedience. It is this astonishing model that the scripture throws before us in a culture that is absolutely defiant to any form of submission. “Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness... becoming obedient to death” (Phil 2:5-8).Jesus was “obedient unto death.” As with love, obedience is true when it is complete. There was an endless, unquestioning commitment we see with Jesus to do the Father’s will. There was a total conforming to the image and likeness of the Father without the slightest fear of losing out on anything. Hence the Lord would say. “I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me” (Jn 8:28). To do the Father’s will was his longing, a thirst, a pride. There is no pride in personal achievements except when it is the joy of having allowed the Spirit to work through me. St Paul echoes this attitude as he writes, “It is


ARTIcLE

30

no longer I, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20). We cannot call God, our God when we choose to obey certain commands and compromise on the rest. “Pick what you wish; ignore the rest” speaks nothing of a relationship and only indicates a convenient arrangement.

Absolute confidence in GodWhen love isn’t a mere fancy sentiment but genuine, deep and discerned, there is trust. I trust and value the love and wisdom of the other over my own wisdom and concern. Abraham could obey God to the point of offering his son in sacrifice only because he was so much more confident of God’s love and wisdom for both his son and himself. When we are so sure of God’s love and wisdom, we are just as keen to ensure He has His way in our lives. Jesus said, obedience boils down to love: “If you love me you will keep my commandments” (Jn 14:15).

Following the law in letter and in spiritChristianity is not just following a set of rules but a commitment to the person of God. Obedience is therefore not mere observation of the law, but necessitates a sensitive heeding of the Spirit. The gospels point out that Jesus began the day waiting in prayer where He waited to listen for the directives from the Father. St Mark mentions an incident that shows how Jesus made His decisions. It was in the early days of the ministry of Jesus: “Rising very early before dawn, Jesus left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed... Peter on finding Him said, ‘Everyone is looking for you.’ He told them, ‘Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come’ ” (Mk 1:35-38). Peter’s idea was a good one. The previous day was a very successful launch of their ministry at Capernaum. It seemed wise to build on that. The crowds were gathered and a lot of good was waiting to be done. Yet the Lord could see that the Father’s plan was different. There are good ideas and there is God’s will, and these need not be always the same. To live by God’s will is to live by convictions... Hence Jesus could say, “For this purpose I have come.” When one lives by convictions, there is no regrets, no fears, but only strength and gratitude.

Obedience without listening... doesn’t happen. If I am not listening to the Holy Spirit I would be relying on my intellect, my reasoning, my instincts and this is very dangerous. Following the law in letter and not in its spirit leads to Pharisaic hardness that is so opposed to holiness and life. I recently heard someone point out, “Jesus did not die at the hand of muggers, rapists, and thugs. He fell into the well-scrubbed hands of hardcore religious people.” St Luke in presenting the Sabbath healing of the bent woman shows the deep contrast between the determined compassion of Christ versus inhuman legalism of Pharisee. Jesus saw a woman suffering for over 18 years and consumed by compassion, He heals her. The Pharisees react “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the sabbath day” (Lk 13:14). What they had to say was logical but also absolutely devoid of any trace of charity itself. They could not rejoice in the good.

Love and do what you mustThe benchmark of both genuine faith and obedience is charity. When God is not in the frame of my religious observance, instead of love there would be condemnation, fault-finding and lack of charity in my observations and attitudes. A classic example could be of those who come to Church on time to check who is late. There are those who are ever vigilant to the rest who are erring. They find their righteousness and superiority in watching out and pin-pointing the drawbacks of others. As Jesus described in the parable of the righteous Pharisee and the repentant Publican, the prayer of the Pharisee was a mere idolizing of his self. “God, I thank you that I am not like other people - robbers, evil-doers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get” (Lk 18:11,12). His heart had not been raised to God. He found his glory in his perfect observances that set him apart from the commonplace publican. Jesus gave the verdict on such prayer that before God he failed to be justified. When one allows one’s heart to be drawn to God, one realizes one cannot but be identified with the least of one’s brethren. “Love is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom 13:10). Just as true love is marked by obedience, true obedience is marked by love.

Divine Voice 31

DIVINE INSTITUTE OF BIBLE SPIRITUALITY conducts a course on Bible. It is a spiritual journey through all the books of the Bible, Genesis to Revelation. The Institute

provides an opportunity to study the Sacred Scripture in an atmosphere of prayer. Renowned Scholars take classes on Bible expounding the words and events of the

Bible elucidating their messages. The courses are open to Priests, Religious and Laity and are organized in view of their spiritual growth and ministry.

For further details contact:Director, Divine Institute of Bible & SpiritualityDivine Retreat Centre, Muringoor P.O., Chalakudy, Kerala – 680309, IndiaEmail: [email protected] | Website: www.drcm.org | Tel: 0480-2708098

21 July 2019 – 15 March 2020

Rs. 500/-

Rs. 25,000/-

Prior registration (required)

Course Fee payable on arrival*

Long Term Course (English)

Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor P.O. Chalakudy, Kerala – 680309, India,

Tel:0480 – 2708098 / 2702613, Fax 0480 – 2708097

I am married and I have two sons aged twelve and fourteen. I work for a retail company. My first retreat at Divine Retreat Centre was in 2000

and after that I attended seven retreats. I have been working for a reputed retail company in the HR Department, for the last eight years. Due to restructuring and consolidation they asked me to resign without proper and valid reasons in the middle of the year 2018. I suffered a lot for a couple of months. I had personal and housing loans to pay. I was in deep trouble and Jesus was the only answer. My wife and I prayed the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3am for nine days very fervently and also attended eleven days novena at our Mother of Good Health Church in Bangalore. I prayed to Jesus that I have booked my tickets for a retreat at DRC on 16 September 2018 and if I got the job before that I would testify and glorify His name. During that week itself we were blessed with two favours. My wife got a promotion which was due for a long time and I got a job. So on the said date, 16 September 2018 we went to DRC to testify to His wonderful blessings. I praise and thank Jesus my Lord. “IF YOU THEN, WHO ARE EVIL, KNOW HOW TO GIVE GOOD GIFTS TO YOUR CHILDREN, HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN GIVE GOOD THINGS TO THOSE WHO ASK HIM!” (Mt 7:11).

ROBERT, BANGALORE “WHEN YOU ARE PRAYING, DO NOT HEAP UP EMPTY PHRASES AS THE GENTILES DO; FOR THEY THINK THAT THEY WILL BE HEARD BECAUSE OF THEIR MANY WORDS. DO NOT BE LIKE THEM, FOR YOUR FATHER KNOWS WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU ASK HIM” (MT 6:7-8)

TEsTIMOny

july 2019

Many people say, “Jesus touched and healed me.” – He touched, withered hand got healed (Mk 3:1-6); Jesus touched a leper and his leprosy was gone (Lk 5:12-16).

A gentle touch or a pat on the back has the power to reach someone’s heart

giving the message of hope and assurance of love and concern.

There is an amazing, ‘heart touching’ story with full of lessons - a story of a typical unselfish marine (soldier) becoming a son to a father who needed his son at his bedside when he was dying. As you read the story note down the gestures, actions and words that ‘touch your heart.’


There was an old man collapsed, admitted in a hospital and was dying. At

that stage all he wanted was his son by his side. The nurse on duty, after some inquiry, ‘discovered’ that a certain Marine stationed in North Carolina might be the man’s son and she was trying to contact him.

Meanwhile the marine arrived and she took him immediately to the bedside of the dying man and said, “Your son is here.” She had to repeat her words several times before the patient’s eyes opened. The old man, heavily sedated because of the pain he had, dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man’s limp ones, shaking and squeezing a message of love and encouragement.

The nurse brought a chair so that the Marine could sit beside the bed. All through the night the young Marine sat there with the old man in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man’s hand and offering


him words of love and strength. Occasionally, the nurse suggested that the Marine move away and rest awhile. He refused.

Towards dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited.

Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her. “Who was that man?” he enquired.The nurse was startled. “He was your father,” she answered.“No, he wasn’t,” the Marine replied. “I never saw him before in my life.”“Then why didn’t you say something when I took you to him?” Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was unaware of her presence because of the noises around – the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night duty staff, the cries and moans of the other patients. Now and then the nurse heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing, only held tightly to his son all through the night.“I knew right away there had been a mistake; but I also knew he needed his son, and his son just wasn’t here.

When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed.

I came here to find one Mr William Grey. His son was killed in Iraq today, and I was sent to inform him. What was this gentleman’s name?”

The nurse with tears in her eyes answered, “Mr William Grey.”

‘Relationship and Friendship’ go everywhere, whether invited or uninvited. But it stays only where it is well treated and respected.

Love and Concern have no limits; Love and Concern have no relatives; Love and Concern embrace all, and in a special way, those who suffer, those who have no one to assist them, those who are abandoned and especially even those who do not deserve love!

So, let us prepare the society to learn to treat and respect the values of ‘Relationship and Friendship’ among them. Let us not lose any opportunity that comes our way to reach out to the needy and extend to them our helping hand.

Moral:When someone needs you … just be there.Jesus said, “Go and do likewise” (Lk 10:37)

I am a retired Defence (civilian) employee in Central Government. I worked as PA to Army Officers (Brigadiers and Major Generals). In my parish I

worked as SCC group leader for more than twenty years. My mother was working for the church and I used to help her at prayer meetings especially to recite the Rosary.

In 2013 when I was at Infant Jesus shrine at Nasik, one night before reaching Tabor for my first retreat I felt a lump under my right arm near my breast. After a check-up the doctor said that I had second stage of breast cancer. During the retreat at Tabor I went for confession and counselling. As I was new to Tabor I did not mention about my cancer at counselling. On the last day of the retreat, the Director of the Retreat Centre Fr Matthew gave me a Bible verse and asked me to repeat it and pray. I repeated the Word of God holding a crucifix in my hand and prayed for forgiveness for the sins I had committed. I pleaded with God to give my life back as my children were not settled. I also had to take care of my two nephews as I had lost my sister in 2003 and her husband in 1999.

I underwent a surgery to remove the tumours. I was given six cycles of chemo therapy and twenty five radiation therapy treatment. At my first cycle of chemo therapy I became serious. In October 2013, my brother-in-law from Ahmedabad who attended retreats often at Divine Retreat Centre was there at that time with his son and they presented a petition for my healing and prayed for me. God heard the prayers of all and I am blessed with new life. I also had to undergo uterus operation and my health was low. However, I surrendered everything in God’s hands and accepted the plan of God. But spiritually I was strong guided by priests and nuns through prayers. My husband is looking after me with love and care. I attended a retreat at DRC from 16 to 21 September 2018 for the first time and that was my thanksgiving retreat. I praise and thank the Lord. “FOR SURELY I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU, SAYS THE LORD, PLANS FOR YOUR WELFARE AND NOT FOR HARM, TO GIVE YOU A FUTURE WITH HOPE. THEN WHEN YOU CALL UPON ME AND COME AND PRAY TO ME, I WILL HEAR YOU” (JER 29:11-12).

I am a retired teacher. I am married and I have three children who are all married. In September 2017 I went to Divine Retreat Centre and then in

the last week of September 2018 I made my third retreat at DRC. At this last retreat I prayed for a safe delivery for my daughter-in-law who was pregnant at that time and for her Residence Permit to live and work in Gulf countries. She was blessed with a baby girl on 11 November 2017 and also received the Residence Permit for herself and her child. I praise and thank the Lord for this great favour. “EVERY GENEROUS ACT OF GIVING, WITH EVERY PERFECT GIFT, IS FROM ABOVE, COMING DOWN FROM THE FATHER OF LIGHTS, WITH WHOM THERE IS NO VARIATION OR SHADOW DUE TO CHANGE” (Jas 1:17).

IDA MISQUITTA, INDORE

SEVERINE SEQUEIRA, NAVI MUMBAI

“SO I SAY TO YOU, ASK, AND IT WILL BE GIVEN YOU; SEARCH, AND YOU WILL FIND; KNOCK, AND THE DOOR WILL BE OPENED FOR YOU. 10 FOR EVERYONE WHO ASKS RECEIVES, AND EVERYONE WHO SEARCHES FINDS, AND FOR EVERYONE WHO KNOCKS, THE DOOR WILL BE OPENED” (LK 9-10).

“THOSE OF STEADFAST MIND YOU KEEP IN PEACE — IN PEACE BECAUSE THEY TRUST IN YOU. TRUST IN THE LORD FOREVER, FOR IN THE LORD GOD YOU HAVE AN EVERLASTING ROCK” (IS 26:3-4)


TEsTIMOnIEs

volume: xxii issue: 2 july 2019 · the twelve. jesus singled him out, and invited him to see and...

Documents