Secular Citizen Vol.23 No.5 Dated 3rd February 2014

3 February 2014

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Catholic-Orthodox Dialogue Begins In Kochi

Kochi: A week-long International Dialogue between the Oriental Orthodox and the Roman Catholic church will be held at Pampakuda near Kochi from Monday.

Thirty five delegates from the Oriental Orthodox churches of Egypt, Armenia, Malankara, Syria, Ethiopia and the Roman Catholic church will engage in a theological dialogue to discuss issues like ecclesiology, episcopacy, apostolic succession, the relevance and important of the Ecumenical Councils, the church and its mission, Metropolitan Dr Gabriel Gregorios told reporters in Kochi.

Pope Says Judgments On Annulments Must Be Impartial And Pastoral

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ddressing the Vatican court primarily responsible for hearing requests for marriage annulments, Pope Francis said judges on church tribunals should show “imperturbable and impartial balance” as well as the “delicacy and humanity proper to a pastor of souls.” The Pope made his remarks to officials of the Roman Rota at a meeting to inaugurate the tribunal’s judicial year.

“You are essentially pastors,” he told the officials. “As you carry out your judicial work, do not forget that you are pastors. Behind every file, every position, every case, there are persons who wait for justice.”

Pope Francis has said that church law on marriage is a topic that exemplifies a general need for mercy in the Church today, and that it will be among the subjects of discussion at this October’s extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the “pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization.”

In his speech to the Rota, the Pope said a judge on a Church tribunal must sympathise with the “mentality and legitimate aspirations” of the community he serves, and thus render “justice that is not legalistic and abstract, but appropriate to the needs of concrete reality.”

Sr. Natali completed 93 fruitful years of her life on 1st of February 2014. This year, She also completes 71 years serving God as a religious nun (Mission Sisters of Ajmir).

On this occasion we pray, may almighty keep her in good health to serve him and wish her

Happy Birthday Sr. Natali Her loving family

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Such a judge “will not be content with superficial knowledge of the reality of the persons who await his judgment, but will recognize the need to understand deeply the situations of the parties,” the Pope said.

“The legal dimension and the pastoral dimension of ecclesial ministry are not in conflict,” Pope Francis said.

“The church’s legal activity, which takes the form of service to the truth in justice, has in fact a profoundly pastoral meaning, because it is aimed at the good of the faithful and of the edification of the Christian community.”

3 February 2014

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‘Thought for the week’

Do not complain about others. Change yourself if you want peace. It is easier to protect our feet with shoes than to carpet the earth.

Contents pg. 3 - Pope Says The Internet Is 'A Gift From God' pg 4 - Replace the present Tax System with Banking Transaction Tax (BTT) pg. 7 - Reader's Views pg 8 - Mandela Will Never Die! pg 9 - Arvind Keriwal An Alleged Anarchist? pg 10 - Follow your Passion pg 14 - Our Good Bishops pg 16 - Ho, That Common Man! pg 17 - The Circle of Love pg 18 - Need of the Hour pg. 19 - Importance of Laughter pg 20 - Matrimonials

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Pope Says The Internet Is ‘A Gift From God' But speed of communication hampers reflection, he warns

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areerist clergy. The super rich. And now we can add another pelt to Pope Francis' collection: Internet trolls.

In statement released on Thursday, the Pope said the Internet and social media are making people across the world "increasingly interdependent."

"The Internet, in particular, offers immense possibilities for encounter and solidarity," Francis said. "This is something truly good, a gift from God." At the same time, though, all those tweets and texts and comment streams can cause people to "lose our bearings," said the 77-year-old pontiff.

"The speed with which information is communicated exceeds our capacity for reflection and judgement, and this does not make for more balanced and proper forms of self-expression," Francis said.

"The variety of opinions being aired can be seen as helpful," he continued, "but it also enables people to barricade themselves behind sources of information which only confirm their own wishes and ideas, or political and economic interests."

There's a tinge of irony to the Pope's comments, considering that his own soaring popularity can be partially traced to the Internet and social media.

According to a study released in November, Francis was the most talked about person online last year.

ing Transaction Tax

(Read on pg. 4)

3 February 2014

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BJP's proposal:

Replace the present Tax System with Banking Transaction Tax (BTT) Banking transaction tax Present Tax System will push India further back v/s Banking Transaction Tax The BJP will become a laughing stock and What is BJP's Proposal: The BJP's vision document - 2025 which will be released before the Lok Sabha elections promises abolition of Income Tax, Sales Tax and Excise Taxes. It proposes a flat banking transaction tax.

It proposes abolition of Income Tax, Sales Tax and Excise Tax. Proposes a flat two per cent banking transaction tax. The complete modalities of the system is yet to be released by the BJP. The BJP argues that even if the government charges just two per cent banking transaction, it will fetch over Rs 15 lakh crore annually instead of the combined current earnings of Rs 10 lakh crore.

For example: A person who earns Rs 10 Lakh a year, pays Rs 20, 000 tax every year. He/she won't be taxed for any other transaction.

What is the gray area: In India the banking transaction is just 20 per cent. Rest is in the form of cash. BJP hopes that the flat tax will encourage the people to do more and more bank transactions. It argues that it will gradually finish the black money.

What is flat tax: A system that applies the same tax rate to every taxpayer regardless of income bracket is called flat tax. A flat tax applies the same tax rate to all taxpayers, with no deductions or exemptions allowed.

Supporters of a flat tax system propose that it would give taxpayers incentive to earn more because they would not be penalised with a higher tax bracket or conceal the real income.

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cease to be taken seriously as a contender for being trusted with India's prosperity, if it persists with a harebrained scheme reportedly favoured by its former president Nitin Gadkari to replace all extant income and commodity taxes with a banking transaction tax (BTT). It is one thing for a seller of herbal oils like Yoga Guru Ramdev to sport a bottle of snake oil along with other medicines, and quite another for a political party with former finance ministers among its ranks to come up with such ideas. India would be pushed back to ancient ages if such a scheme is adopted.

A stand-alone BTT will see a flight of deposits from banks. People will hoard cash to escape paying the levy that will be charged every time a person deposits money in a bank or withdraws/spends it.

India will then have a permanent and thriving parallel economy. A flat 2% BTT will be regressive and iniquitous: the poor with meagre incomes will pay a larger proportion of their income as tax than the rich. It will hurt industry too.

Manufacturers will not get credit on taxes they pay on inputs, unlike, say, the valueadded tax. This will raise the cost of production and make products more expensive for consumers.

The levy will cascade and render our exports uncompetitive. Exemptions, if any, will make it even more messy. BTT will be an inefficient tax. No country in the world has a stand-alone BTT. Only Brazil experimented with the levy, and that too as an extra tax.

True, the UPA also introduced the banking cash transaction tax. But the levy, charged on withdrawals from the current account, was scrapped later.

In addition, supporters argue that a flat tax system is fairer because it imposed the tax on all taxpayers regardless of income.

How it works in other countries: In a progressive tax system, individuals who make more money are taxed at a higher rate. Many of the countries that have imposed a flat tax rate system on individuals and businesses, including Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia, have experienced economic growth since adopting flat tax rate policies.

In the United States, a progressive-rate tax system is used. In 2010, for example, people who earned up to $8,375 fell into the 10 per cent tax bracket; people who earned greater than $373,650 fell into the 35 per cent tax bracket.

Is it feasible: Some experts feel that it is both feasible and desirable. FICCI President Siddarth Birla describes it as aspirational. Another expert argues that it has worked many countries and there should be no reason to worry that it may not work in India.

However, the experts caution that the flat tax should be thoroughly examined before replacing the old taxation system with it.

Tax experts and industrialists say that it will reduce corruption and save the people from harassment. Even Ernst and Young argues that it is feasible.

Some say instead of flat tax, the pending Goods and Services Tax (GST) proposal should be accepted.

Countries with no Income Tax: United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Cayman Islands, Bahrain, Bermuda, The Bahamas, Saudi Arabia, Brunei Darussalam

3 February 2014

What is banking transaction tax?

BTT is the tax levied on debit or credit entries on banking transaction made by any account holder. Essentially this would mean that each time an account holder withdraws from or deposits money in his account, it will be taxed.

How many taxes does the country have at present? India has two classes of tax.

One is direct tax, which can only be levied by the Centre. This includes personal income tax, corporate tax, securities transaction tax and wealth tax. Since the tax rises with income, experts call these progressive. The second group is indirect tax levied both by states and by the Centre. Since a goods item or a service can have only one rate, it makes no allowance for whether the payee is poor or affluent.

The only way it can be made progressive is to set an income or turnover threshold for levying the tax. At the central level, indirect tax includes service tax, customs duty and excise duty.

In states, other than excise there is sales tax, octroi and others.

It won’t work because O Since people will inherently move away

from the banking system due to BTT (contestable claim, as above), there will be serious misuse of the system, and people will move into other “stores of value”, like gold, bitcoins, and other currencies!

O

Stamp duty is a tax on transactions and does not work as people pay part of the amount in cash to avoid having to pay the full duty. Ergo, they will avoid paying all kinds of taxes, and ergo ergo, BTT will not work.

O BTT will require constitutional amend-

ments, which will take a lot of time, as our experience with GST has shown.

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3 February 2014

O No country in the world has eliminated

all taxes and hence we should not do so. Also, international experience with transaction taxes has shown that one cannot collect more than 2% of GDP in taxes and Modi would need around 10% of GDP O Why make such radical changes when

there is a better way forward. Remove the myriad taxes that we have in our system today, and converge on two simple taxes, Personal Income Tax and GST, with few liberalisations on rates, etc., and let life go on as normal.

Karnataka Leads in Christian persecution

Maharashtra next Hindutva laboratory - CSF 2013 report * CSF Report presented to Cardinal Oswald Gracias, CBCI President * About 4000 Christians targeted in anti-Christian violence * Over a 1000 women and 500 children affected victims * Over 400 clergy and community leaders attacked * About 100 attacks on churches or worship meets * Minimum 7 Christians killed, including a minor * Over 200 instances documented by activists

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1. Rajasthan: Anugarg (Anmol) - a seven year old Christian child killed 2. Tripura: Christian man beheaded for not converting to Hinduism 3. Uttar Pradesh: Christian killed for his faith 4. Odisha: Christian youth dies in police custody.

5. Odisha: Dr. Jaishankar from Blessing Youth Mission killed 6. Madhya Pradesh: Christian raped and killed 7. Andhra Pradesh: Nursing student found murdered in a church 8. Jharkhand: St. Joseph’s Christian teacher stabbed to death 9. Karnataka: Rector of Bangalore Seminary beaten to death.

* About 4000 Christians targeted in anti-Christian violence * Over a 1000 women and 500 children affected victims * Over 400 clergy and community leaders attacked * About 100 attacks on churches or worship meets

Top 10 states where persecution occurred 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Karnataka - 43 Maharashtra - 25 Andhra Pradesh - 25 Odisha - 14 Chhattisgarh - 13 Madhya Pradesh - 11 Tamil Nadu - 10 Kerala - 10 Rajasthan - 6 New Delhi - 5

The 200 major anti-Christian violence incidents across 19 states documented range from being murdered for the faith and being brutally assaulted to being raped and jailed for propagation of what one believes in. Other states from which are persecution hot spots include, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, Gujarat, Manipur, Tripura and Assam.

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Blessed John Paul II's secretary to publish pontif's personal notes

Warsaw: Pope John Paul II's secretary "did not have the courage" to burn all of the pontiff's notes after his death, and is now having some of them published, he said Wednesday.

The book, Very Much in God's Hands. Personal Notes 1962-2003, comes out February 5 in Poland, where the pope is still a much-loved authority. It contains religious meditations that Karol Wojtyla recorded between July 1962, when he was a bishop in Poland, and March 2003, when he was pope.

Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz told a news conference that in preserving some of the notes he was motivated by the "despair of historians" when the letters of Pope Pius XII were burned after his death, as he had wished.

Christian medical college gets national stamp of quality Vellore: The century old Christian Medical College hospital in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, has become the first among the oldest and largest hospitals in the country to receive a certificate of accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals (NABH).

The CMC hospital’s director Dr Sunil Chandy and medical superintendent Dr C E Eapen said a team of officials from NABH would formally hand over the certificate to the hospital on February 7.

The citation received by the hospital said the CMCH has been assessed and found to comply with norms set by NABH to meet quality standards.

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Prop. B. D'Souza

Rally Of The Handicapped

APANG SEVA, Vasai 27th annual rally of the handicapped was held in St. Joseph's College, Satpalle, Vasai on Sunday, 19 January. Mr. Cecil D'mello of the MBA Foundation, Gorai was in the the presidential chair. Ms. Jean Fernandes was awarded ‘Jidda Puraskar 2014’.

Ms. Cynthia Baptista thanked Mr. Peter Fernandes, Chairman, Dnyandeep Mandal, the College staff and students for the trouble they took to organise various sports and activities for 200 handicapped people of Vasai-VirarTalasari area. Fr. Vency D'Mello,sj and Mr. Florian Roderigues were the chief guests.

—Fr. Michael G. Guide, Apang Seva (Association of the Handicapped) Director, Jeevan Jyoti, Catechetical Centre, Girij, Vasai

Silent Protest 24th To 31st January Fight against the BMCs Unjust acquisition plans of the St.Anthony's Church & School Lands still continues under the head line "NOT AN INCH OF OUR LAND" The Silent Protest conducted from 24th Jan'14 everyday from 7.00 pm to 7.30 pm till 31st Jan'14 (except 26th Jan'14) starting from the meeting point outside Hotel Radhakrishna at Malwani No.1 in a slow march towards the Chapel. Citizens/ community members lead the protest each day.

On 1st Feb - The entire community/ citizens/ parents joined in the Palkhi Procession from the Chapel & moved to St. Jude's School, then thru the Kharodi Village ending back in the Chapel to wake up this dumb/ deaf Government/ BMC a massive rally "CHALO AZAD MAIDAN" has been planned for March 15, 2014.

—Dolphy D'souza, Spokesperson SAVE OUR LAND- SOUL TEAM St. Anthony's Church, Malwani.

BCS “Power Of One” Awards The SABHA DAY of The Bombay Catholic Sabha is on Sunday 23 February 2014 and as in previous years the Awards for Best Units and units excelling in Thrust areas will be given. Besides these, the Sabha honours individuals who have excelled in any particular field of activity, career, profession, service, etc with the “POWER OF ONE AWARD”.

The Sabha invites applications or nominations for these awards with full particulars of the person nominated and details with attachments of the work or achievements of the individual.

Kindly send the same to the office of The Bombay Catholic Sabha, St. Michael’s Church Annexe Building 1st Floor, Mahim, Mumbai 400016 before 3rd February 2014.

3 February 2014

Mani Shankar's Ire Advantage Modi The disparaging remarks made

by Congress MP and spokesman Mani Shankar Aiyar against Modi at the AICC meet that the latter " would NEVER become PM but was welcome to sell tea there " , do neither him nor his party any credit. More importantly, by speaking contemptuously of the humble origins of the BJP's PM candidate, Aiyar has denigrated a large proportion of the Indian electorate which earns its living by sweat and toil, and squashed its aspirational hopes to leadership of the country which, in Aiyar's implied opinion, is the birthright only of the members of the Dynasty who are regarded by him and others of his partymen as ‘to the manor born’.

Shankar's ire against all Congress rivals in general and the main opposition BJP and Modi in particular, stemming from his personal frustration and the unmistakable writing on the wall - spewed in print and on TV debates - would be credible were it not coming from a Doon School-Cambridge alumnus who was roundly defeated in the general elections in 1996,1998 and 2009 , and entered Parliament by the back door as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha.

That is something a former tea vendor would never do .

—Bernie Tellis

Live-in-relationship This has reference to the write up " Looking Beyond Article 377 " by L.L.D' Souza (S. C. 13 January ). One cannot say the legal aspect pronounced by the Supreme Court that the "live in relationship" is neither a crime nor a sin, is wrong. Though I cannot admit that it is "right", it is difficult to say that it is unpatriotic or immoral.

As a Christian my opinion is that such relationships must be discouraged on account of the following reasons 1 This kind of relationships is nothing but wholetime occasion for temptations. We are told that occasions that

3 February 2014

cause temptations must be avoided so that we can avoid sin.

2. Our Indian culture is generally not in favour of pre-marital sex and in view of the possibility of sexual encounters in such fellowships, there is a public disapproval for the same 3. Though the Court says such relationships are not illegal,its repurcussions involving legality of children, property, length of relationship, the consequence of abandon-

ment of relationship etc. etc., are very serious . Ultimately there will be a society that never need to recognize father and mother. Permissiveness will inrease, morality will become loose The couples who prefer such relationship seem to be those who do not like the traditional concept or rituals or parental approval. In all such cases the couples can register their relationship ( the common parlance is known by the word "marriage" ) They are at liberty to divorce later, if they choose so according to the existing rules. In any situation we have to abide by rules which are made for the common good.

Ladislaus is right to think that the Church should express its opinion and teaching on the subject when an occasion arose. In the western countries where such relationships exist,most of the catholic partners abandon the religion and do not pass on the faith to children. We hope our learned Bishops will bring out the Church teachings on the subject for the information and guidance of Catholics.

—K.C.Thomas

3 Ways to Make More Cash in 2014 For small businesses, the ending of another year presents a great opportunity to take stock and set goals for the year ahead. If increasing revenue in 2014 is one of your goals, there are a few business practice adjustments that will go a long way to creating big returns.

on the time spent on a project, but it often means you're devaluing your work in the process. Some projects take longer to complete but deliver the same value. Does that mean you charge one client more for what in the end is the same deliverable?

1. Become an investment, not an expense. If what you offer is positioned as simply a service, you're viewed as an additional expense and nobody likes expenses. People will always haggle over price, but everyone understands the importance of an investment. Position your product or service as a commodity that will benefit the buyer, not only in the present moment but in the long-term.

3. Get your books in order.

Many business owners are passionate about what they do and have little interest or time for balance sheets.

Few things are more tedious than the administrative tasks of running your business but tracking cash flow and profit and loss statements are key to learning from your mistakes.

2. Price for value, not time spent. It's common practice to charge based

Once your customers see the value of investing in you, you're on your way to becoming a trusted partner. When the impact of your work is understood, your services begin to sell themselves.

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Catholic Bishops To Deliberate On Elections Kottayam: Some 235 bishops, members of the Catholic Bishop Conference of India (CBCI), will come together in Palai, Kerala, for their biennial meeting February 5-12, few months ahead of the national elections.

The bishops are to discuss the political stand the Church should take in the coming Lok Sabha elections, Bishop Joseph Kallarangatt of Palai told Deccan Chronicle.

“The stand the Church should adopt in the coming general elections will be discussed at the plenary meet-

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ing, which will see the third biggest assembly of Catholic bishops in the world," said Bishop Kallarangatt, the newspaper reported.

Besides the elections, the bishops are expected to discuss the stand the Church in Kerala needs to take on the Kasturirangan report on the Western Ghats and various other socio political issues.

The participants for the 31st national meeting include bishops of 167 dioceses, 12 auxiliary bishops, two Kuria bishops and 56 retired bishops of the three ritual Churches--the SyroMalabar, Syro-Malankara and Latin churches--across the country.

Source: deccanchronicle

The Longest Street In The World The distinction of the longest street in the world belongs to Yonge Street in the Province of Ontario, Canada.

Yonge Street starts at Lake Ontario and runs north through central and northen Ontario to the Ontario-Minnesota border, a distance of over 1896 kilometers. The Guinness Book of World Records recognized this laim, in 1998. Most of Yonge Street today exists as Highway 11, north of the Grater Toronto Area. Due to the development of the GTA, the old highway lives on as side roads, deadend roads or overgrown wooded trails.

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Rule Of 72

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f you divide the number 72 by the rate of interest, you get to know the number of years it will take for you to double the money 72: is sort of a magic number of personal finance, a.k.a known as the rule of 72 in personal finance parlance. * Years:* If you divide the number 72 by the rate of interest, you get to know the number of years it will take for you to double the money.

For instance, if the rate of interest is 9%, simply divide the number 72 by 9% and the answer is eight.

This is the number of years it will take to double your money if you invest it at 9% rate of interest. * Interest:*This rule works in reverse order as well. Lets say, you know the number of years you want to double your money in and want to know the minimum rate of interest which you need to achieve that goal. So let's say, you have Rs 2.5 lakh today and need to fund your son's college education with Rs 5 lakh in five years. Just divide the number 72 by 5 and the answer is 14.41%.

This shows that you will need to invest your money in an instrument where you earn at least 14.4% as rate of interest, if you want to double the funds in five years. * Inflation:* This rule also helps you understand a thing or two about inflation. It helps you calculate the amount of time it will take for inflation to make the real value of money half. So, let’s say that the average inflation is 7%. When you divide 72 by 7, the answer is 10.28. So, if you have Rs 1 lakh in your kitty today, it would take around 10.28 year for the value of the money to be halved.

Also note the heart beats 72 times in a minute.

3 February 2014

Arvind Kejriwal An Alleged Anarchist?

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Eric D'Sa

ost of you reading this article may have read or heard be fore, that during his days Jesus Christ was called an 'ANARCHIST'. He was arrested, stripped, beaten up, spat upon, crowned with thorns, and finally crucified. The Jews accused him of wrongly claiming to be the 'King of the Jews'. Most people were aware then, that this was a false accusation. What was the real cause of the anger, was his teachings and actions, which were against the well established practices, that were followed by the Jewish Synagogue priests and their followers. Here was a rebel who was born in a stable, worked as a carpenter, had poor fisherman as his disciples and was walking along with the poor,the sick and the proclaimed sinners. He was a totally disruptive influence, on the way of life that was practiced for centuries by the Jewish people. He went about not only healing but cleansing up the system.

Nearer to our times, the Britishers who ruled us for centuries, called Mahatma Gandhi a 'Naked fakir', an 'ANARCHIST'.

They jailed him for many years for carrying out unconventional dharnas and hartals. He stated to the discomfort of his Christian rulers, that he admired the teachings of 'Jesus Christ' and his 'ahimsa' movement was based on inspiration from this great religious teacher. He was killed by some of our own people of this country, who claimed that the Mahatma was working against their core religious and long term cultural values.

Now people who are against the AAP, see it as a threat to their way of life and are calling Arvind Kejrival an 'ANARCHIST'. He has agreed publicly on T.V., that if his thinking and actions are considered by the vested interest to be disruptive and that of an anarchist, so be it. Just because he has become a Chief Minister of a State, does not require him to become a chameleon and change from what he stands for. APP stands for the middle class, youth and

3 February 2014

the poor and if you gauge their reaction of what Kejrival has done so far as a Chief Minister, they will overwhelmingly confirm that he has done a good job and kept to his promises made to them.

His crusade is against corruption, which like cancer has spread through out the administration, lower Judiciary and the police force all over the country. Many may disagree with the unconventional things the Team Kejrival is doing, but they can not accuse them of double standards. He has forced power companies to face audits of CAG as stated he would do, he has temporarily cut the power rates for the poor, he has provided 20,000 liters of free fresh water to every household per month. This is as part of AAP promises made to the Delhi votes and Kejrival is acting on it - good or bad. He has also as promised, withdrawn FDI in retail until the party has a fresh look at the repercussion on small traders. He has set up a help line to report corruption, and action has started against a few bureaucrats who were caught on camera taking bribes. As soon as AAP won a large number of seats in Delhi Assembly, Congress and BJP panicked and passed in the Lokpal bill, the only work they did during the last winter session. Kejrival has promised to bring in a strong Lok Yukta bill within a weak or two. Many are surprised of the number of rapid actions and decisions that are being taken by AAP, as soon as it has come to power.

Kejrival has as promised stayed away from a lavish bungalow, the red light car, and personal protection from dozens of AK 47 wielding gun men.

The neo- critics are telling Kejriwal that the agitation methods being used after he became Chief Minister are bad politics. The two day dharna is being portrayed as unbecoming of a Chief Minister. Both the BJP and Congress are accusing him of being unresponsible,immature and acting without refrain. He has been even called a 'mad chief minister'. They are rattled

by the fact that people of India have in Arvind Kejrival, a future Prime Minister candidate, who is miles ahead in his academic achievements, mad or not. He has passed both IIT and civil service exams in flying colors. He has given up a lucrative job, to work in the social service field. He is a megasay award winner. Put him against the other two candidates and they pale.

It is not easy to take on the corrupt in this country - most of the politicians, bureaucracy, lower judiciary, and police force are now enmeshed in corruption. They have the support of crony capitalists who have thrived in this atmosphere. Even the fourth estate needs to come out open to the public, with the details of the yearly income from advertisements received from the political parties, Governments controlled by these parties and corny capitalists. This will show who pulls the strings. A small David is taking on a number of Goliath's at the same time! He may fail to change the rules, but he is trying. Time will tell!

May be the country does now require an 'Anarchist' to clean up the mess we are in.

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Follow Your Passion Following your passion is more important than money. You don’t need to do something you hate in order to be successful or to gain enough money to support yourself or your family.

Just stay true to yourself and always follow your passion

It Won’t Feel like Work One of the reasons why following your passion is more important than money is the fact that you won’t even feel like you’re working, since you really enjoy what you are doing. While most people can’t wait to get home from work and relax, you won’t even notice how fast the time flies since you will be focused on what you are doing and not on the fact that you are stuck in a dead-end job.

Nothing Will Help You Overcome The Feeling of Doing Something You Hate No matter how much money you make at your job, it won’t make you feel happy if you don’t enjoy what you are doing. You will only feel miserable and stressed out and I really think that none of the benefits you might obtain there will not help you overcome that awful feeling of doing something you hate. Most of the time, you won’t even have the opportunity to spend all that money you gain or to enjoy the benefits you‘ve earned, since you will be too busy doing something that doesn’t suit you.

You Will Be More Inclined to Work Late Hours If you follow your passion, you will definitely be more inclined to work late hours since it won’t even feel like work to you. When you’re really passionate about something, you want it to be just perfect, so you won’t feel like you’re making any sacrifice in order to get things done. The late hours you’ll have to put in won’t seem such a burden anymore because you are not forced to do them. It’s your choice and this makes it even more enjoyable.

Nothing Will Prevent You from Reaching Your Goals When you’re really passionate about something, nothing will prevent you from reaching your goals. You will always find the strength you need to over-

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come all the obstacles that might appear in your path and you won’t feel exhausted doing it. Just like Eddie Cuffin said: “Your passion ignites your work, and like a rocket, it accelerates you past road blocks that may come about. Any obstacle that comes your way is accepted and fought off with a creative solution.”.

You Will Be More Passionate about The Work You Are Doing Since work won’t seem like a burden to you anymore, you won’t feel like you are forced to go to work. You will be one of those lucky people who do not understand the meaning of the famous expression: “having a bad case of the Mondays” since you can’t wait to get back to work after the weekend. You don’t understand why all those people fuss about this and why they eagerly wait for the weekend so they could enjoy themselves, since you do it all the time, whether you are working or not.

You Can Come up with Better Ideas Since you love your job so much, you will be able to dedicate yourself 100% to take care of all the issues that you might come across and you could come up with even better ideas, because you will be able to relate more to your work.

You do realize that not everything will go as smoothly as you planned it but with a bit of effort, you will manage to overcome all the obstacles that might appear in your path and you will be more inclined to come up with creative ideas which will help you look past those dull days that you’ll encounter every now and then.

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3 February 2014

Royal Christian Family invites

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3 February 2014

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Our Good Bishops T he year 2014 began on 1st Janu ary as a happy augury, with the visit to my home of my new bishop, Raphy Manjaly. We have known each other for almost 40 years, so we joyously recalled some of the missionary journeys that we had embarked upon together in Lucknow and Bijnor dioceses.

Exactly 5 days later I received two open letters addressed to bishops. The first was by the redoubtable Dr James Kottoor, former editor of The New Leader. It was addressed to the four bishops of Ernakalum, Kerala. He was drawing a parallel between the Indian political establishment and the hierarchy; implying that the hierarchy should also be shaken out of its stupor by an AAP-like storm in the church. He was appealing to the bishops to come out of their cocoons, to engage in an open dialogue with the laity; lest the church be left in the lurch, become redundant and its teachings infructuous.

Was it coincidence, or divine intervention, that I simultaneously received an open letter from the indomitable Rev Subash Anand, a former professor of the Papal Seminary, Pune, now serving in a remote mission station in Udaipur diocese, Rajasthan? I will briefly touch on some of the issues raised by Subashbhai. Though the letter is addressed to the bishops of the U.P. Rajasthan region, copies were sent to all the bishops of India; so this is now an open forum.

Subashbhai avers that Rupees Twenty Lakhs were spent on the consecration of a bishop in the region; eventhough the diocese has hardly 10,000 Catholics. Similarly Rupees Fourteen Lakhs were spent on the installation, not consecration, of another bishop in the region. The questions that he raises are – What is the need of such ostentatious spending?

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Was the laity involved in the decision making process? What was the need of

a political figure (diplomat) like the Papal Nuncio, to attend such functions? What was the need for dozens of bishops and hundreds of priests, to attend such elaborate celebrations?

It gave the impression that bishops, priests and religious have a lot of spare time and extra money to blow up in this way. If the church has so much money there is no need to seek foreign funding. The church can verily take care of the needs of the Dalit Christians in our ranks. He asks why we continue to establish more and more prestigious English medium schools that are sources of power and pelf. Yet such institutions resist social legislation like the RTI and RTE. Why? He too, like Kottoor, draws a parallel with AAP. He

BY CHHOTEBHAI wants the Aam Admi Pastors who have “the smell of the sheep” a la Pope Francis. Both letter writers see him as a true Christian leader, whose qualities of head and heart merit emulation. I cannot but agree with both of them.

Along came another “divine intervention”, again thanks to AAP! On 15 th January mattersindia.com carried a report on Bp Thomas Dabre of Pune, praising Arvind Kejriwal on his Facebook wall. Here’s what he said. “They wish to teach us Indians that the nation belongs to us citizens and not to the politicians, Ministers and Govt officials”. He further said.

“The VIP culture and five star lifestyle of politicians must be restrained. It is the people who elect the politicians, and they must be involved in all decisions. Politicians must not make decisions FOR the people but WITH THE PEOPLE”. What noble sentiments. They enraged me because of their apparent double standards! I am now juxtaposing the good bishop’s words on the church scenario. This is how it would read: “Kottoor and Subash wish to teach us Christians that the church belongs to us, all the faithful, and not to the bishops, priests and religious …

The VIP culture and five-star lifestyle of bishops must be restrained. It is the people who should elect the bishops and they must be involved in all decisions. The hierarchy should not make decisions for the people, but with the people”. Such a statement would be music to the ears of the AAM Christians – the laity. I don’t have a Facebook Wall, but I do hope that our KHAAS hierarchy will read the writing on the (Contd.. on p. 15)

3 February 2014

(Contd.. from p. 14) wall, like Nebuchanezer did, and face the truth.

The “divine interventions” have not ceased. The next one was an article by Rev Michael Kelly, Executive Editor of ucanews.com. He was reporting on Pope Francis’ “warning” to the 19 new cardinals appointed by him. I would rather call it an advisory. Here are some extracts: “The cardinalship does not imply promotion … It is neither an honour nor a decoration. It is simply a service that requires you to broaden your gaze and open your hearts … Receive this designation with a simple and humble heart … ensure that this sentiment is far from any expression of worldliness or from any form of celebration contrary to the evangelical spirit of austerity, sobriety and poverty”. Kelly says that the Pope’s advisory uses the simple salutation “Dear Brother”, devoid of any honorifics like “Your Eminence”. Isn’t it time that we also addressed our good bishops as brothers? Shouldn’t our good bishops stop having a “Coat of Arms”, a flashback to medieval European nobility? What about those rings that even our womenfolk stoop to kiss? Isn’t this servile practice anathema to Indian culture?

I have had many wonderful interactions and relationships with a host of bishops, beginning with Abp Angelo Poli Ofm Cap way back in 1960. My grandfather, as President of the Cawnpore (now Kanpur) Catholic Association, had presented him his episcopal ring on his election as the bishop of Allahabad in 1917. We have had close family bonds with many bishops.

In 1949 Bp Leonard Raymond of Allahabad blessed my parents’ marriage. In 1974 Bp Cecil D’sa of Lucknow blessed my sister’s marriage, and in 1983 Cardinal Lawrence Picachy of Kolkata blessed my brother’s marriage.

Bp Fredrick D’souza of Jhansi was present at my marriage in 1984; and Abp Albert D’souza (Agra), Bp Raphy Manjaly (then of Varanasi) and Bp Francis Kallist (Meerut) concelebrated at the 25th jubilee mass of our marriage in 2009. Bp Patrick D’souza of Varanasi wrote an inspiring Foreword to my book

3 February 2014

“Beyond 2000 – The Other Side” in 2000, and released it at Kanpur. Bp Bosco Penha did likewise in Mumbai, as did Abp Vincent Concessao in Agra.

At an AICU meet in Mumbai in 2004, one of the auxiliary bishops actually kissed my hand, when we were introduced. A rare reversal of roles! It was Bp Raymond D’mello of Allahabad who ensured that my parents received papal awards – my father with the Knighthood of St Gregory, and my mother with the “Pro Ecclesiae et Pontifice”. Bp Baptist Mudartha, the retired bishop of Allahabad, had graced my father’s Birth Centenary Celebrations in 1997. So I should have every reason to say that we have good bishops, with whom my family and I have had very pleasant relationships.

Other than the “ceremonial” aspect, there are a few more episodes, of a different nature that warrant attention.

The first dates back to 1976, a few days after I had joined Jyotiniketan Ashram, Bareilly. Fr Augustine Deenabandhu Ofm Cap was away, and I was alone, when the parish priest drove up with an older person, who was dressed in an ordinary kurta pyjama. It was Bp George Saupin SJ, of Daltonganj. I was threshing grain at the time. Without ado the bishop joined me in that “menial task”, and later helped me in making rotis on the wood fire. He was an inspiration to me. Today’s readers may not know that it was the time of the Emergency., and Bp Saupin had stood up for the rights of the poor tribals in his diocese. Because of his blue eyes and French name, Indira Gandhi thought that he was a foreigner, and tried to expel him the way she had treated Fr Zeitler SVD of Pune, and some others. Since he was an Indian national, she nevertheless prevailed upon the CBCI to get him transferred out to Bhagalpur diocese.

During the Emergency Indira wanted to control even the appointment of Catholic bishops.

Another interesting episcopal encounter was with Abp Antony Padiyara of Changanacherry, while he was staying at St Fidelis’ Ashram, Lucknow. He had sent one of his “theologically errant” priests to Jyotiniketan for correctional guidance. I just walked into the archbishop’s room, and pleaded the

cause of his priest, as Fr Deenabandhu had not found any “wrong” in the man.

The archbishop graciously accepted to take his priest back. Sometimes bishops do listen!

Shortly after I was elected National President of the All India Catholic Union in 1990 I had visited New Delhi.

Abp Angelo Fernandes invited me to a farewell party for the Nuncio, Abp Cacciavillan. The Nuncio called me aside to say that he had read my manifesto, and had only one word of advice for me, “Stay out of the rites issue”. He was infact the architect of the division of Bombay archdiocese, and the erection of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Kalyan.

Two weeks later he invited me to his own farewell party at the Ashoka Hotel. I had just returned from a factfinding mission to Gajraula, where two nuns had been raped. The CBCI Centre, where I was staying, was locked.

Everybody was partying at the Ashoka.

So dirty and sweaty as I was, I took a smelly auto to the hotel. There they were – bishops, priests and nuns – wining and dining. Never mind the victims in Gajraula. The Nuncio was then the Dean of the Diplomats in Delhi, by virtue of being the senior most serving diplomat. So the entire diplomatic corps was there. What did they think of the wining-dining Catholic Church?

This takes me back to a similar incident in 1967. My mother was a gogetter. She could get people like President Dr S. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Mother Teresa to accept her invitations to Kanpur. Cardinal Valerian Gracias of Bombay was now on her guest list. Among other functions, she had organised a dinner at our home. The top brass of the administration, Army and Airforce were present. In my album there is a photograph of the Cardinal sitting with my parents at the dinner. He is holding a glass of whisky and a cigarette. I thought nothing of it at that time, as I was just a teenager. But when I look at that photograph today I am horrified. As with the Nuncio in the previous episode, I ask myself “What kind of witness were we giving?” Wasn’t that just what Mahatma Gandhi had in mind when he said that he liked Christ but he disliked Chris(Contd.. on p. 16)

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(Contd.. from p. 15) tians? Perhaps that is also what Dr Ambedkar saw when he toyed with the idea of leading his “untouchables” to Christianity, but opted for egalitarian Buddhism instead.

It is time that we “listened to what the Spirit is saying to the churches” (cf Rev 3:22). He speaks through the scriptures, Vat II documents, the events of everyday life, and the writings of inspired writers like Dr Kottoor and Subashbhai aforesaid. Permit me some brief quotes from the “Dogmatic Constitution of the Church”. It says, “Those who are endowed with sacred power are the servants of their brethren” (LG 18). “Among the principal duties of bishops, the preaching of the gospel occupies an eminent place” (LG 25). It doesn’t ask bishops to erect English medium schools, or cut ribbons and be chief guests at jubilees. “A bishop must keep before his eyes the example of the Good Shepherd, who came not to be ministered unto, but to minister (cf Mat 20:28) and to lay down his life for his sheep (cf Jn 10:11)” (LG 27).

The “Decree on the Bishops Pastoral Office in the Church” also reiterates “A bishop should stand in the midst of his people as one who serves” (CD 16). Many may also not know that the abbreviation DD that some bishops use, is not for “Doctor of Divinity”, but for “Doulous Douli”, which is Greek for “servant of the servants”.

From the foregoing it is apparent that I have many good friends among my brother bishops. I have no personal grouse or expectation from any of them. My expectation is regarding the mission and credibility of the church in the modern world. It is here that I now dare to say that the good is the enemy of the perfect. A bishop may be a “good man” – he loves the orphans, visits the convents, builds institutions, cuts ribbons, attends jubilees and funerals, and does not have tangible vices. But that is not good enough. Jesus had to contend with many “good” people. Those who attentively listened to his path-breaking Sermon on the Mount must have been good people. But he told them that it was just not enough. They would now have to walk that extra mile (cf Mat 5:41). It is only then that they could “Be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Mat 5:48).

To the good woman Martha Jesus said that she needed to take one more step to listen attentively to God’s word, which was the better part (cf Lk 10:42). To the good man Nicodemus Jesus said that he too needed to take one more step, to be born again of the liberating Spirit (cf Jn 3:7). To the rich young man who had kept all the commandments, so he must have been a good guy, he again asked for one more step, “If you wish to be perfect go and sell all your possessions … then follow me” (Mat 19:21).

Christian discipleship is the path of perfection, not mediocrity. I hope and pray that, inspired by Pope Francis, the good bishops of India will rise beyond mediocrity, to take that extra step on the path of perfection. Infact every one of us is invited to discern God’s will from time to time, to determine what extra step now needs to be taken. 2013 augured well for the universal church with the election of Pope Francis. May 2014 augur equally well for the church in India too. * The writer is the author of four books, including one on the Trinity and another on Christology. He is an avid student of ecclesiology.

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Oh, That Common Man !

Oh that common man – who is he ?

There he is, oh yes here he is !

I see him there somewhere, Well, he is everywhere Does anybody care for him ?

That common man – highlighted by R.K. Laxman In the print media Made fun of – people laughed at him With his daily troubles Oh that common man !

He continues to live – struggling, To make ends meet Struggling to have a decent meal Struggling to have some decent clothes Struggling to have some roof over his head Struggling to educate his children Struggling to live – Struggling, Struggling, Struggling ….

That is the common man !

That common man – is he powerless ?

So they say, he is What can he do ? – Nothing !

There he is – used, misused, abused by all By politicians, by those in authority By anybody who sees himself as superior Oh that weakling - the common man !

The common man – he is at his best When he is driven to the wall By politicians, by others in society What does he possess – uneducated, illiterate; He has Nothing ! That common man – What can he do ?

Never underestimate the power of the common man – Goes a dialogue in a movie.

But yes, He has that one powerful weapon – The power of his VOTE Taken for a ride for long, he weilds his weapon To throw out governments in power That is his victory !

Today, they call him the ‘AAM AADMI’ !

—Melville X. D’Souza

3 February 2014

The Circle of Love

W

e live in an “I, Me, Myself” The Late society. Open the newspa Stephen R. pers and what do you see? Covey, a manThe first page is full of news on scams, agement guru various political parties jockeying for of repute, wrote political and monetary gain and news about our of rapes which violate the victims’ dig- circles of connity and cause lifelong trauma, and cern and of ingory murders. We live in a material fluence. We are world surrounded by material girls and all concerned guys. Advertisements only increase the about the individual’s craving for more and cre- growing culate ‘needs’ where none existed before. ture of corrupIt’s all about the money, honey! Just tion. The solike two thousand years ago when Jesus called ‘master’ walked the earth! of the house sitJesus preached a doctrine con- ting in a rocktrary to this sordid culture of exploita- ing chair and tion, of self-aggrandizement at the ex- waxing elopense of others, of insatiable greed. He quent to his preached the gospel of LOVE. An un- captive audiconditional love bestowed gratis from ence (his pet a munificent God on everyone on earth dog) about even though no one really deserved it. what the world He preached of caring for one’s fellow- is coming to men as in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Jesus’ love was so great serves no purpose other that even as he hung dythan pandering his ego. ing on the cross, he was However, if he goes out filled with compassion for and votes he is making the good thief and fora difference. Our congave him. He went furcerns may be many. We ther: he forgave his murmay want to erase the derers, pleading “Forgive inequalities that exist in

by Monica Fernandes them, Father, for they society and the gap beknow not what they are tween the rich and the doing!” poor. But kitty party chit-chat serves no And what does God expect in purpose at all. return from us? He would like us to love him and one another – not for himself Jesus’ concept of love but for our own sakes. The strange “Love one another as I have loved thing about this love that Jesus you,” said Jesus. And he practiced preached is that the more we expend it, what he preached as he tirelessly crissthe more the deposit of love grows crossed the countryside healing the within us. If we keep God’s love to sick of mind and body illnesses. Rightly ourselves like Scrooge, we will get none then does Covey further say that the in return and we will be increasingly more we reach out to others, the more unhappy. When we want to increase will our circle of influence increase, our savings, we don’t dig our money making Jesus’ practice of what he into the ground but we invest it wisely preached our own. Our first step in the so that the capital grows. right direction would be to sit down and

3 February 2014

list our God-given talents. Then we could ponder awhile as to how we could use these talents. We could also write down our weaknesses and the steps we could take to improve.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around,” opines Leo F. Buscaglia, the noted American motivational speaker and writer of the last century.

The familial circle of love The family is the smallest and most important unit of society. If we go on a change-the-world spree and neglect our own children, we are doing them—and in effect, society in general—a great disservice. A family that prays and plays together stays together.

We need to spend quality time with our children and our better halves in good times and bad. We need to give each (Contd.. on p. 22)

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The Need Of The Hour “

H

is disciples came to Him and he began to teach them.” (Mt. 5: 1- 2). One of the most powerful and deeply profound passages in Scripture, ‘The Beatitudes’ form the first part of the Lord’s teaching and are commonly referred to as, “The sermon on the Mount”. Mannheim, a famous scientist says that we normally use about 1/8th of our physical reserves and that these are called upon only when we employ the right attitudes. Often these very attitudes are so inconsistent with the life and teachings of Jesus, who preached not a new religion but a new life, by calling all to repentance. If our attitudes can help tap hidden physical reserves, then an experiential understanding of the Be-attitudes can effectively maximize our potential, not only in the Ninette physical area of our beings, but in our mental and emotional areas as well. How true that, in them we hold the blue print for healthy, fulfilled living. Good news indeed! for depressed Christians who run from pillar to post, seeking help from the mental experts of the world.

“Blessed are the Peace Makers for they will be called Sons of God.” Of the 8 Be- attitudes this one seems to have a special relevance to the present times. If there is one thing that the world needs desperately right now, it is ‘Peace Makers’. The painful knowledge that while we are scaling peaks in scientific enlightenment, we have also gained the power to annihilate ourselves with global destruction, has created an alertness and awareness in people all over the world, to the need for peace, among societies, nations – the world. Strange but true, though we often sing ‘All glory to God on high and peace to people on earth’ today there seems to be neither glory to God, nor peace on earth. As long as it remains an unfulfilled hunger, we will continue to yearn for it. When real peace is established there will be no need for demonstrations, for it will echo not only in our individual lives, but all around us too! Many activists who work for peace may find it difficult to

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accept but the fact remains that as long as we are not at peace within ourselves, we will create situations on which we will project our insecure feelings. It is always easier to blame politicians and world leaders for problems both big and small, rather than to look into one’s own heart and accept individual responsibility. If Jesus was here living amongst us now, He, I think, would bless the lives of those people (Christian and others) who embody today, the virtues of which He, was a living example on earth, virtues of loving one’s neighbour as oneself, of doing good and charitable work among one’s fellow men and above all, forgiving sincerely someone who has hurt you. Such people are in harmony with God, and with themselves and that D'Souza harmony is reflected in their dealings with others.

Let me take this opportunity to explain my understanding of what the word ‘Peace Maker” is not. Peacemaking is not just keeping the peace. Some strive to keep peace because they do not want to rock the boat, and enter into any unpleasantness that might arise, when trying to put matters right. They would prefer to avoid a conflict by smoothing things over the surface, or meekly giving in, only to rave and rant later. Seeing a blatant injustice and saying, “I’d do something about it, but I don’t want to cause a fuss” is not peace. The virtues of mercy, non-violence, love and truth are tested only when they are pitted against ruthlessness, violence, hate and untruth. Hence a true peacemaker may be called to be a fighter. Paradoxically s/he is called not to lead a passive life, but an active one. Peace making is not about patching up things, but about getting to the root of the problem. Remember Jesus and his attitude towards the money lenders in the temple? Prince of Peace and Prince of agitation when needed as well!!! A peace maker may sometimes have to stir up trouble, before a situation can be resolved.

A little girl, who a few weeks ear-

lier had become a Christian, came down from the bedroom one morning and said to her mother, “What a beautiful day.” The surprised mother said, “What do you mean? It is raining like I’ve never seen it rain before, and the weather forecast is that we are going to have several more days of this. How can you call such weather beautiful?”

“But mother” the little girl replied, “a beautiful day has got nothing to do with the weather.” With these simple yet powerful words the little girl had reconciled her mother not just to the weather, but also to the nature of the peace of Christ. Those of us who have accepted Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross have but one mission, to share the peace we have received from Christ, with others.

The little girl had in her own innocent way, understood who a peace maker is. S/He is one who makes a new world around and within oneself, one who is inwardly reconciled to a loving God, and seeks to reconcile others to Him and to each other. Such people I guess are the healthiest and happiest people on earth. “Those who are peace makers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness.” James 3:18.

A peace researcher like Bishop Klaus Hemmerle has translated the Beatitudes into the language of everyday life as follows.

“Blest are those who pay much attention to others’ interest and concern as their own: They shall foster peace and unity.

Blest are those who take the first step to meet others: they shall discover the other is more open than it seemed.

Blest are those who never lose patience: They shall always find a new beginning.

Blest are those who first listen and only then speak: they shall be listened to.

Blest those who first always discover (Contd.. on p. 19)

3 February 2014

Importance of Laughter 'Laughter is the best medicine': we're always being told that, but there's actually more to a good giggle than just raising our spirits for a couple of minutes. Although a good laugh won't cure a serious disease, it can have countless health benefits and is one of the best forms of natural medicine.

Have you ever wondered why class clowns are virtually always male?

In a research conducted by psychology professor Robert R. Provine at the University of Maryland found that women who posted personal ads sought a partner who could make them laugh twice as frequently as they offered to be the source of humor.

Though there are many ways to laugh, from giggles to guffaws and from chuckles to cackles, it turns out that we humans laugh at the strangest things.

Etiquette Laughter At the end of a long day, you find yourself in the elevator with your boss.

Instead of talking up your latest ac(Contd.. from p. 18) what is right in the contribution of the other: They shall be able to integrate and mediate.

Blest are those who never use their position egoistically: They shall be met with respect.

Blest are those who never are offended or disappointed; they shall create a good climate for others.

On the 64th death anniversary of the Father of the Nation,(also celebrated as Martyrs’ Day) I wish to share his thoughts taken from his own writings. “…….. Non- violence is my first article of faith; it is also the last article of my creed. Complete non-violence under its active form, is a good will for all that lives. It is perfect love. Non-violence has descended among men and it will stay there. It is the harbinger of peace in the world”.

Were the Mahatma alive today would he still make this claim, I wonder?

3 February 2014

complishments, though, you find yourself laughing at everything he says. We tend to laugh with anyone who can help us out, which is why a group of undergraduate students may guffaw at a professor's bad joke, while a job applicant's attempts at humor may fall flat with those who are already gainfully employed.

Here's How To Stay Away From Bad Cholesterol

Contagious Laughter Imagine you're out for dinner with a group of friends. Someone tells a joke and gets one person laughing, which gets a second person laughing, and so on. Is catching laughter like catching a cold? It's very likely.

Nervous Laughter There are times when we need to project dignity and control, like during presentations to the CEO or during a funeral.

Unfortunately, these are the times when uncontrollable nervous laughter is likely to strike. During times of anxiety, we often laugh in a subconscious attempt to reduce stress and calm down. However, nervous laughter usually just heightens the awkwardness of the situation.

Belly Laughter Belly laughter is considered the most honest type of laughter. It may also be the hardest type to experience, because we have to find something truly hilarious before we'll let go with the kind of laughter that has us clutching our bellies and gasping for air.

Silent Laughter Those of us who work in cubicles may think that silent laughter is a skill we've perfected so that we can look at funny Web sites and videos at work. This type of laughter is also practiced in laughter yoga and laughter therapy, where it's often called joker's laughter. To try it on your own, freeze your face into a smile like the Joker of Batman fame, then let your belly do the work of pushing air in and out as if you were laughing out loud.

Did you know? * Eggs just have a bad rep: Eating foods rich in saturated and trans fats can increase cholesterol more than eggs? * Sugar is not so sweet: Eating sugary foods raises blood cholesterol levels and heart disease risk. So cut down on soft drinks, colas, sherbets, sweetened teas and coffees (especially those made with powdered milk and non-dairy creamers), pudding, candies and mithai. * Potatoes can be a vehicle for bad cholesterol: Hash browns and mashed potatoes that you order at restaurants can raise cholesterol levels as they are mashed with a large portion of butter, cream, whole milk and/or cheese. * Chocolates are not always good for you: Eating chocolates (the ones that are commercially manufactured) in excess can increase the risk of heart disease as they are made with hydrogenated fats, milk fats and sugar. * Movie-theatre popcorn can ruin your heart: Cinema hall popcorn is not only rich in hydrogenated fats (more than 25 gm fats in a medium-size tub), but also have excess salt, sugar and cheese powder that can wreak havoc with your cholesterol levels. * Your favourite snacks are high in salt: The snacks and salty biscuits that you love to eat contain trans fats that can raise cholesterol levels and destroy your heart’s health.

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MATRIMONIALS MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Divorcee, age 31 years, Ht. 5’ 10”, Wt. 82 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. HSC., working as a Cargo handling assistant in Airline in Dubai. Contact email : julmich_2001@yahoo.co.in OR 9819452164 (Regd. No. 5957) MUMBAI : Karware Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, age 38 years, Ht. 5’ 5”, Wt. 54 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. 10th Std., working on Rigs as a Cruise Member. Contact Mob. 8879137735 (Regd. No. 5952) MUMBAI : Parents of Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, DOB 1974, 5’ 9”, P.hD (U.S.A.), working in US, seeks alliance from R.C. spinster. Send details and recent full size photograph to : dfr472121@gmail.com (Regd. No. 5950) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, age 39 years, Ht. 5’ 7”, Wt. 75 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. XII Std., Working as a Gen. Steward in Ship. Seeks a Goan girl below 32 years.

Contact email : fatima16jones@gmail.com OR 26671289 / 9969488673 (Regd. No. 5949) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 30 years, Ht. 5’ 9”, Wt. 75 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Sc., working as a Manager. Contact email : lorna1905@gmail.com OR 9850044561 (Regd. No. 5921) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 34 years, Ht. 6’, fair complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Sr. Officer. Seeks a good catholic family background girl. Contact Email : trevorfernandes69@gmail.com OR 9819420120 (Regd. No. 5920) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 27 years. Ht. 5’ 10”, Wt. 55 kgs., Fair Complexion, Edn. T.Y. B.Com., Working as a Sr. Collection Advisor. Contact Email : perpthevirgo@yahoo.co.in OR 9821302840 (Regd. No. 5919) MUMBAI : Tamilian Roman Catholic

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Divorcee, aged 48 years. Ht. 5’ 4”, Wt. 66 kgs., Fair Complexion, Edn. B.Com., BBA., MBA (Finance), working as a Finance Manager. Seeks a suitable Match. Contact Email : talentedgradewisdom@yahoo.com OR 9819939479 / 9930559783 (Regd. No. 5914) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 33 years, Ht. 5’ 8”, Wt. 70 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Microsoft Engineer in Bangalore. Well settled, having own house in Bangalore. Seeks a educated Mangalorean girl from good family background. Contact Email : lorettag58@gmail.com OR 9323949129 / 9867848489 (Regd.

No. 5880) MUMBAI : Tamilian Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 53 years, Ht. 5’ 3”, Wt. 75 kgs, Tan Complexion, Edn. Elect.

Engg., Self Employed. Contact : 9619784992 / 9833560643 (Regd No. 5869) MUMBAI : Marathi Converted Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 46 years Ht. 6’, Wt. 76 kgs, Wheatsih Complexion, Edn. H.S.C., working in Kuwait as a Public Relation. Contact Email: vbhabal@yahoo.com OR 9619344291 (Regd. No. 5863) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Widower, aged 45 years, Ht. 5’ 6”, Wt. 65 kgs, Wheatish Complexion , Edn. Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, working aborad as a Mechanic. Seeks a simple, loving, well mannered below 38 years preferably working girl.

Contact Email : simondspear@gmail.com OR 9702148869 (Regd. No. 5861) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Divorcee, aged 34 years, Ht. 6’, Wt. 75 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. BDS (Mum), Doctor by

Members are requested to inform us when they are settled, so that publication of their details can be discontinued.

profession. Seeks a good looking, below 29 years Mangalorean girl.

Contact email :job314mi4@gmail.com OR 9920059033. (Regd. No. 6008) MUMBAI : “I am a fun loving 38 years Goan R.C. Ht. 5’ 8”, Wt. 80 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., C.A., who believes in having a balance between work and personal life.

Fond of music, travelling and the best way for me to unwind is through dance (Latin Style). I am currently working for a reputed MNC for last 5 years. Though I drink socially and occasionally, smoking is a strict-no.

Seeking alliance with a simple, godfearing girl with a good family background. Eventually, I hope to see myself not just as my partner’ partner but my partner’s Best Friend forever!”

Contact email : goansearch@yahoo.com OR 9833761339 (Regd. No. 5994) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 32 years, Ht. 5’ 11”, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Sc., I.T., & Dip.in Elect. Engg., working as an Assistant Manager (Technical) Only Child. Contact email : noel.pereira83@gmail.com OR 9820561856 (Regd. No. 5983) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Bachelor, aged 26 years, Ht. 5’ 11”, Fair Complexion, Edn. B.Com., MBA, Seeks a Sales Director, Only Child. Seeks a humble, god fearing, kind, Ht. above 5’ 2”, age below 26 years. Contact email : natashadevelopers@aol.in OR 9820092761 (Regd. No. 5981) Address your replies to :

Regd. No. ROYAL CHRISTIAN FAMILY, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001.

To Place Your Matrimonial Advertisement Call: 2269 3578 OR 2265 4924 3 February 2014

MATRIMONIALS MUMBAI : Roman Catholic Divorcee, aged 49 years. Ht. 5’ 7”, Wt. 65 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Sc., working as a Sr. Govt. Officer. Contact Email : reenaahuja2012@gmail.com OR 9323552662 (Regd. No. 6023) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 27 years, Ht. 5’ 1”, Wt. 54 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. MA (Sociology), working as an Asst. Manager Recruitment. Good looking, smart. Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : jacintajabbal@gmail.com / ppereira@deloitte.com OR 9022929041 / 9167514382 (Regd.

No. 5953) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 30 years, Ht. 5’ 2”, Fair Complexion, beautiful, Edn. MBA Finance working in Private Limited Company. Seeks a suitable match.

Contact email : lavitac@gmail.com OR 9930936622 (Regd. No. 5942) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster aged 24 years, Ht. 5’ 5”, Wt. 55 kgs, Wheatsish Complexion, Edn. M.Sc., good looking and smart, working as a Maths Analyst. Contact email : mariaferns71@yahoo.com (Regd.

No. 5941) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 27 years, Ht. 5’ 6”, Wt. 69 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. MBA in Marketing, working as a F & B Executive. Seeks a suitable match. Contact email : flaviajet86@yahoo.co.in OR 28816294 (Regd. No. 5939) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster aged 30 years, Ht. 5’ 5”, Wt. 68 kgs, Wheatsish Complexion, Edn. MBA (Finance) working as a Research Assistant in Pvt. Sector. Contact email

Royal Christian Family Helps In Choosing The Right Life-Partner

Serving Since 32 Years 3 February 2014

: roshan.gomendes@yahoo.co.in OR 9167140184 (Regd. No. 5938) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster aged 29 years, Ht. 5’ 3”, Fair Complexion, Edn. B.E. (Mumbai) MBA (USA), working in Reputed IT Company as Business Analyst in USA. Contact email : virginia4u@gmail.com OR 9833099037 / 9821373880 / 9222380052 (Regd. No. 5934) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 25 years, Ht. 5’ 8”, Wt. 60 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. BMS in Marketing, MBA in Retail Management, Working in Retail Sector.

Contact email : aarikhalws99@gmail.com OR 9930672317 (Regd. No. 5933) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 33 years, Ht. 5’, Wt. 62 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. B.A., PGDBM, Working as a HR Manager.

Contact email: lumfers1954@hotmail.com OR 9819352481 (Regd. No. 5932) MUMBAI : Anglo Indian Roman Catholic Spinster aged 39 years, Ht. 5’ 3”, Wt. 68 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. B.Sc., MBA (HR) working as a AGM (HR) Contact email : berny2002@hotmail.com OR 26771992 (Regd. No. 5929) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 30 years, Ht. 5’ 2”, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. MBA (Marketing) working as a Manager.

Contact email: diana.g.fernandes@gmail.com OR 25923985 (Regd. No. 5927) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Spinster aged 32 years, Ht. 5’, Wt. 50 kgs, Fair Complexion, Edn. M.A. B.Ed., Teacher by profession. Contact email : carol.chitale@yahoo.com OR 9769775073 / 9819442577 (Regd. No. 5926) MUMBAI : Tamilian Roman Catholic Spinster, 39 years, Toll, slim, Fair, Edn. EMBR HR, working as a Sr. Executive.

Contact Email : rinklynj@gmail.com /

floryjanardhan@rediffmail.Com OR 9820076082 (Regd. No. 5917) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, 28 years, Ht. 5’, Wt. 56 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. B.Com., MBA (Finance) working as a Jr. Manager in Bank. Seeks a suitable match.

Contact Email : oldgoa2012@gmail.com OR 9869765169 (Regd. No. 5916) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic Divorcee, aged 44 years, Ht. 5’, Wt. 42 kgs, Wheatsih Complexion, Edn. B.Com., working as a Office Assistant. Seeks a suitable match. Contact : 25948048 (Red. No. 5899) MUMBAI : Goan Roman Catholic Spinster, aged 30 years, Ht. 4’ 11”, Wt. 49 kgs, Wheatish Complexion, Edn. BHMS., Doctor by profession. Contact : rochelledsilva@gmail.com OR 9869000687 (Regd. No. 5733) MUMBAI : Mangalorean Roman Catholic parents of spinster daughter 1973 born, 5’ 4 1/2” tall, fair complexion with qualifications of B.Com (Mum), two Post Graduate Degrees in Management, and two diplomas in I.T. and Computer, working in good position.

Looking out for a qualified and professional well settled bachelor with good family background in Mumbai or abroad upto 45 years. Kindly apply with recent photo and full details either to Email : bellwethether77@yahoo.com or call mobile No. 9892700617. (Regd. No. 5441)

Address your replies to :

Regd. No. ROYAL CHRISTIAN FAMILY, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001.

Please renew your membership at lease a month in advance before its expiration date.

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(Contd.. from p. 17) other unconditional love. If our children do not become rocket scientists, does it really matter?

We teach our children about reaching out to others with love and doing their bit to make the world a better place through our example. Several years ago I enlisted the help of my daughter Minal who was then around eight years old in making greeting cards for an NGO for the mentally challenged in order to raise funds. This exercise not only helped the NGO but also resulted in better bonding between mother and daughter. And we had fun.

The circle of love initiated by the home-maker The housewife has ample opportunities of expanding her circle of love not only with her family, but with others too. Perhaps the part-time maid may need some guidance and financial assistance to educate her children. The elderly in homes for the aged need someone to read to them.

The circle of love at our workplace Pope Francis is an excellent example of someone who spreads love during his work day. He eschews the trappings the Papacy has come to be associated with – the pomp, splendour and glory! His Christ-like behaviour has brought many younger people into the Church’s fold.

Jesus and the art of giving Whenever Jesus performed his many miracles, whenever he reached out to the downtrodden with compassion and love, he boosted them with self-belief as well. He left their dignity intact. A social relationship where one person is dependent on the generosity of the other is an unequal one-up-onedown transaction. The giver is perceived to be superior to the receiver. It is for this reason that Jesus said that we should give without making a show of our generosity.

Many are the rich and powerful who are so busy making money as to

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have no time to empathize with the less fortunate. So they indulge in cheque book generosity. But there are also some go beyond this narrow perspective and try to make a difference, by finding time for the furtherance of social causes. In the acting profession, Angelina Jolie, Aamir Khan and Shabana Azmi are examples of such people.

My little grandson, Ahaan, lives in California with his parents. When he returns home after a vacation, he leaves behind some of the toys we have bought him. I make a parcel of these toys and give them away to an underprivileged kid of his age. My daughter Minal said that I would make this little girl happier if I bought something for her as well – a toy or sweets or colour crayons.

I clearly remember a birthday party we once had for my son Aloke when he was in school. One of his classmates, Vijay (not his real name), was suffering from severe diabetes and was given only a few months to live. He was physically underdeveloped due to his illness. The boys pampered Vijay no end. They played sitting games at our house where he could join in and took turns carrying him while playing running games in the garden.

My friend Indu Rao tries to reach out and help others in whatever way possible. For instance, she visits and brings food for a sick friend. She does random acts of kindness. In reaching out to others, we make the world a better place and our reward is a feeling of satisfaction in doing the right thing.

The thorny path Spreading the circle of love could sometimes come at great personal sacrifice as in the case of the fifteenyear old Pakistani schoolboy, Aitazaz Hassan Bangesh. He saw a suicide bomber about to enter his school and tackled the bomber, thus triggering the bomb. This teenaged hero died along with the bomber and thus saved five hundred lives.

The circle of love sketch is asymmetrical…

And rightly so! We are not all equal in terms of how we give and what

we give. A lot of giving depends on how we use our talents and the opportunities that come our way. My form of giving is writing whilst my friend Valerie Pinto, a psychologist, counsels youngsters in slums through an NGO. Mariza Paes coaches children with learning abilities on a voluntary basis.

While expanding the circle of love, we must take care not to be taken for a ride. In the workplace particularly, it is quite common to hear others appeal to our softer side and shove their work on us with a sob story. If we fall for these manipulations, what hampers the widening of the circle of love is our folly.

We sometimes get a raw deal from those who are meant to protect us – our immediate family. For instance a sibling may be trying to deprive us of our rightful share of ancestral property. We should not take such behaviour lying down yet we should not make revenge the be-all and end-all of our lives. While seeking justice, we would do well to focus on those who reach out and support us during difficult times. Or else, what will further hamper the widening of the circle of love is revenge rides roughshod on hatred. In the process, we make ourselves putty in the hands of the devil. There’s no gainsaying the fact that as we sow, so shall we reap.

We are not all destined for fame.

Whatever our walk of life or age, we can contribute our bit towards widening the Circle of Love. Sometimes we may go out of our way to help someone and get little or no thanks for our efforts. And then out of the blue a person we least expect extends a helping hand to us.

This is the power of the Circle of Love.

Hats off to those who have gone through great personal loss, to those who are going through a rough time and yet find it within themselves to sympathize, to do a good deed!

In conclusion we recall what Mac Anderson, one time New Zealand Test cricketer, wrote: “You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it.

When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its place is something that you have left behind... let it be something good.”

3 February 2014

After the successful visit to Holy Land (Jordan, Israel, Palestine and Egypt) with 128 members group in May 2013, The Secular Citizen and DIVO readers are getting ready to visit Western Europe in 2014 The countries include Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, Vatican, Italy, etc.

The tour is organised in association with an expert tour operator

Those interested to join this group are requested to contact : The Secular Citizen / Divo 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai 400001

Tel.: 022-22693578, 22654924 Creating future leaders in the community through the project:

‘Leaders in the Making and Reaching to the Top’ Youth are the pillars upon which a nation’s future is built. It is true that in this challenging era of globalisation, our youth must be nurtured, educated and guided towards the right path. There is a need for the youth of our community to strengthen their faith by adopting the right mindset and acquiring a wealth of knowledge.

With this objectives in mind we have been conducting special youth seminars entitled ‘Leaders in the Making and Reaching to the Top’ since 10 years. So far over 8000 youth have participated and benefited in the 12 seminars which have been guided by expert resource persons. Guiding our youth as effective future leaders and shine in top positions within and outside the country is our dream which we want to turn it into reality, The Entire project is conducted absolutely Free for the participants.

This appeal is an invitation specially for people who are concerned about our youth and their bright future to be a part of this project :

THE SECULAR CITIZEN

99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai 400001. Tel.: 22693578, 22654924 Emails: secular@vsnl.com / secular@sezariworld.com

3 February 2014

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RNI No. 56987/92

Published on every Monday & Posted on Monday & Tuesday of every week Posted at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office, Mumbai - 400001.

3 February 2014

Registered No. MH/MR/South-139/2012-14

Printed and Published by Lawrence Coelho at The Secular Citizen, 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Harihar Nivas, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001. Tel.: 2269 3578, 2265 4924 3 February 2014 Printers: The Secular Citizen, Fort, Mumbai 400001. Editor : Philip Myaboo

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