Tản mạn: ROOTEDNESS & MISSION

The recent special meeting between Pope Leo XIV and the Jesuits' Major Superiors marked an important moment for Jesuits worldwide. In his address, Pope Leo highlighted the urgency of our times, noting: “Artificial intelligence and other innovations are reshaping our understanding of work and relationships, and even raising questions about human identity.” (1) Framing these challenges, he called for renewed commitment to the Jesuit mission. 

The word “mission” in the Church, derived from the Latin “mittere,” refers to the person sent, the purpose of being sent, the place to which one is sent, or the nature or result of being sent. Without acknowledging this meaning, Christians cannot fulfill their responsibility to the Church of Christ. According to Fr. Fabio Nardelli, O.F.M., in “Missionary Tutti”, understanding Pope Leo’s call depends on this definition. (2)

Building on this definition, Pope Leo re-emphasized the common mission of Jesuits, stating: “I repeat: the Church needs you at the frontiers, whether they be geographical, cultural, intellectual, or spiritual. These are places of risk, where familiar maps are no longer sufficient.” On those front lines, they become soldiers of the Church. 

Expanding on this shared mission, the Pope also re-declared four “Universal Apostolic Preferences” of the Society of Jesus, confirmed by Pope Francis: Promoting Discernment and the Spiritual Exercises; Walking with the Excluded; Caring for Our Common Home; and Journeying with Youth. (3) These preferences, he noted, have arisen from the technological changes shaping the present world. 

Most of all, the discernment, prayer, the Sacraments, and community life are the concrete missions, “rootedness”, in connection with Christ always. After that, the motivations from “those rootedness” make them brave and enthusiastic in the Church’s missions. “Remain in my love... so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” (Jn 15: 9-17)

Little Stream

Photo: vaticannews.va

(1) Pope Leo to Jesuits: ‘Go to the frontiers with courage and discernment' - Vatican News

(2) TÀI LIỆU MISSIONARI TUTTI - CHÚNG TA LÀ NHỮNG NHÀ TRUYỀN GIÁO: MỘT HÀNH TRÌNH ĐI VÀO THẾ GIỚI KỸ THUẬT SỐ

(3) Universal Apostolic Preferences - Introduction | The Society of Jesus

Tản mạn: "WHERE THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A WAY"

Reminding us of the will and its importance to persons, Doctor Charles Richard "Rick" Snyder (1944–2006), an American psychologist who specialized in positive psychology, wrote that: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”.[1]  I absolutely agree with this claim about the will and the achievement of human beings because I think that the will can furnish people with spiritual strength, wisdom, and confidence.

First of all, I reckon Dr. Snyder’s thought, for I additionally accept that the will would make the human's spiritual strength. Spiritual strength, or spiritual motivation, plays a vital role in a person’s life. Accordingly, lives can be promoted without motivation because they do not have the suitable impulse to put forth their own efforts. For instance, some students go to school without spiritual strength and study in a tedious manner. When they bear up under onerous circumstances and cope with tragic illness, they may stop the "embryo process". Otherwise, if someone has positive views on the serious merits of parents, they would scrutinize hard with all their heart. Undoubtedly, they would reach the predictable effects. From the above case, it is clear that people in any condition still need goodwill to complete their work, given their families and expectations afterward. I think people should cultivate goodwill in their lives to attain victory.

Next, I concentrate especially on this point as the central point of this writing, for the will can lead human beings to wisdom. People can hold wisdom through other means, such as experiments or knowledge; nevertheless, they cannot lack the will to practice those experiments and knowledge. It is clear that many complex problems and fatal illnesses arise when they are applied to concrete lives. “No pain, no gain” – a special and meaningful proverb suggests that people should be conscious that they have to pay worthy prices for their ambitions. Hence, if they have a strong, stable will, they can weather the storms. That means they would have good discernment of their own opportunities, which can help them recognize good and bad, success and failure, benefits and disadvantages, and so forth. Consequently, if people try to train these perceptual skills, they will encounter difficulties and acquire information that strongly supports their beliefs.

Finally, confidence is also a fruit of the will. I chose this criterion because I saw many people change their lives in surprising ways. Nick Vujicic is a typical example I want to mention for this analysis. Nick was born without arms and legs, and he said he faced many barriers at the earliest stage of life. “Without hope, his feelings of helplessness and isolation led him to attempt suicide….”[2]. However, he rebuilt his life after those difficulties. He began to separate his toes, using them as fingers to grab things, and, little by little, his will recalled his confidence before the others. Nick graduated from Griffith University at the age of 21 with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, and he went anywhere to share about the will, which built his confidence in his experiment. I think this case shows enough of the value of will in leading to confidence and success.

In summing up, I perfectly correspond with the idea “where there’s a will, there’s a way” of Doctor Charles Richard "Rick" Snyder. I think the will can change people's destinies and make them successful by giving them spiritual strength, wisdom, and confidence. 

Little Stream

[1] https://www.nytimes.com/.../hope-emerges-as-key-to...

[2] https://nickvujicic.com/

Theo.: TRIUMPHALISM

 

Triumphalism - a "special" word that I was stimulated in the class of previous day. Wondering about the meaning and try to find the definitions and information of its, it is suprised to discover an inssidious disease in the Church from the old days to nowadays. 

Vatican II Council declared in dogmatic constitution "Lumen Gentium", "All the faithful of Christ are invited to ... let neither the use of the things of this world nor attachment to riches, which is against the spirit of evangelical poverty, hinder them in their quest for perfect love. Let them heed the admonition of the Apostle to those who use this world; let them not come to terms with this world; for this world, as we see it, is passing away. (235)" (#42)

The deepest desire of the the Church in every age is that all Christians "offer an imitation of and a testimony to the charity and humility of Christ, Mother Church rejoices at finding within her bosom men and women who very closely follow their Saviour who debased Himself to our comprehension". (#42) All of these desires was the strongest counter-evidence to the triumphanism. 

Through these teaching, Christians acknowledge the attitude of self-righteousness, bravery, and excessive authorities on the edge of being a victorious, perfect, and sole possessor of truth, sometimes are phenomena of triumphanism, which may cause mediocre divine aspectes or lack of religious views about other friendly groups. It is evenly over-emphasizes the role of the Church's hierarches.

Francis Pope emphasized in his homily when he was alive that: "triumphalism tries to make it to the goal by shortcuts and false compromises… It lives off gestures and words that are not forged in the crucible of the cross; Jesus destroyed triumphalism by his Passion.”*

Leading to these phenomena may be the sources of over-emphasizing the Church's hierarches and sole theories instead of listening, companion Church. Thus, Francis pope called all Christians keep the consciousness that they are People of God through "Synodality Church" image. In particular, he clearly reminded in apostolic exhortation "Evangelii Gaudium" that: "Without detracting from the evangelical ideal, they need to accompany with mercy and patience the eventual stages of personal growth as these progressively occur." (#44)

Completing this short writing with an essential message of Vatican II Council in dogmatic constitution "Lumen Gentium" may be neccessary: "Thus, the Church, although it needs human resources to carry out its mission, is not set up to seek earthly glory, but to proclaim, even by its own example, humility and self-sacrifice." (#8)

Little Stream

*https://www.vaticannews.va/.../palm-sunday-abandonment...

Suy tư: THE FEET OF MISSIONARIES

A younger brother asks me:

- "Brother! Tomorrow is World Missionary Day! What will you do?"

- "Ok! I will write something...". 

The Church's Missionary is broader in scope. Not only the obligation of the pope, bishops, or religious men/women, but it is also a common mission for all Christians. Two images that make me remember this Memorial Day.

1. Saint Theresa of Lisieux, a member of the Discalced Carmelite nuns, the Nuns' lives and activities revolved around the monastery's close atmosphere. She was chosen as the patron saint of missionary parishes. Why? She did not go out to proclaim the Gospel as priests do; she was not famous and was not known as a famous person. 

Theresa was a normal nun and admitted herself to be "an apostle of apostles". She nourished missionary missions through her prayers, thoughts, and life. Any small things that happened around her life on the monastery campus, she offered to God as a prayer for propagandists in the faraway places. 

2. - "Brother! I desire to become a propagandist in the future!". 

A little girl told me about her dream. Then she was 15 years old (grade 9), and she belonged to an ethnical minority of Vietnam. I was surprised when listening to her dream. Asking the reason, she firmly answered:

- "I see the devotion of missionaries who introduce God to our village. My parents told me that priests helped people in the village eradicate illiteracy and approach a civilized way of life. Hence, I understand that a propagandist is called to become useful for the Church and society."

Before leaving this village, I gave her my Holy Cross, which I often take with me on the way. I believe that she can become a fantastic propagandist.

May God bless all propagandists who are working hard in the Church's Harvest. "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" (Is 52:7)

Author and Photo: Little Stream

Suy tư: FROM KNOWLEDGE TO WISDOM

It is not easy to distinguish the significance of these words because they indicate the information that is absorbed through learning and training the intellect. 

So, which factor makes these different? First, knowledge is an "information pool" that students or scholars acquire through studying and practicing under the observation and acknowledgment of teachers or professors. Furthermore, "knowledge" implies the specific knowledge students acquire by following the postgraduate program. However, this word emphasizes students' or scholars' efforts in achieving higher academic levels, but not all of their endeavors warrant becoming wise (wisdom) persons. 

Second, "wisdom" emphasizes the ability of people who can apply "knowledge" in real life. At higher requirements, after acquiring "information pool" or "specific knowledge", learners need to study how to utilize their knowledge in work, society, and, sometimes, they study "breaking the normal rules" to face challenges by intelligence and breakthrough. These experiences appear and survive during the separate contexts of each age, and they ask the learners to achieve flexible skills.

Nevertheless, one meaning takes precedence over the previous meaning of "wisdom" in the faith context: a "wisdom" man is a person who listens to God's Will.  Most of all, he "keeps his eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." (Psalm 16:8)

The "knowledge" man does not ensure having wisdom; The "wisdom" man does not assure having God's Will; But having God, he possesses both "knowledge" and "wisdom". However, this is a long journey....

Author: Little Stream

Photo: Quoc Trung

Suy tư: FAITH, BELIEF, AND TRUST

Three words are roughly similar, but, carefully analyzed, there are some differences among them.

"Faith" is an attitude and behaviours that tend to the Highest One. Thus, anyone has the right to show their gods based on their faith. In the view of Catholics, the faith is a popular topic in discussions, arguments, and theological thoughts. Some essential points which Christians need to remember: First, faith comes from God, is God's grace; it is not made by human endeavour. Second, personal faith belongs to the community of faith in the Church, because faith is a special gift God gives to all people. 

"Belief" in the content of faith. Answering the "What" question on the faith. Actually, Christians cannot say "I have faith..." or "I believe in..." without clarifying the objects of their faith. They must know exactly who they believe. WHAT do they know about their faith? WHICH conditions do they commit if they accept this faith?... It is not a "fleeting faith" that comes and goes with personal emotions or temporary thinking.

"Trust" is a concrete display of faith through thoughts, words, and behaviours. Christians are not only making theoretical proclamations on their lips; it is also significant to show clear evidence of their belief. These behaviours show their devotion and personal determination in practising the teaching of God and the Church. If the "belief" illustrates the content of the faith (i.e., the theory), "trust" can be a channel through which that belief is expressed in concrete actions. 

Remember the formula: Faith = belief + trust. Having a belief does not mean having trust; having trust does not mean having true belief. The transition from "belief" to "trust" through the revelation of God is the "conversion" process for Christians. These "conversion seconds" can be described as "enlightenment" or "awakening" when they truly understand their faith; it requires a long process to develop "belief" and "trust", and to "study" and "practice".

Author and Photo: Little Stream

Suy tư: IN-SEGNANO

The utterance "In-segnano" in the Latin language was echoed in Pope Leo's homily at the Mass for catechists. It means "teaching" or "didacticism", and the word "segnano" indicates a "mark" or an "imprint" that a person leaves on another person (e.g., a friend or a student).  

The consciousness of the essence of education signifies that trainers or educators need to comprehend their influential mission, which is called "job" like any other career in society. Actually, education is not only about "throwing away" the knowledge that trainers acquired. Also, it is not an uncomplicated task to create salaries that are desirable enough to stabilize teachers' lives. Thus, it is necessary to uphold the highest ideal of educators: training and supporting "real" competent persons for the hereafter. 

Coming from personal experience, a religious man/ woman giving wisdom with enthusiasm, zeal, passion, and intensity. They are aware that "I am not an expert, but I have opportunities to study some things from others. Hence, sharing their "tiny knowledge" with persons who desire to study but have no chances is their priority. Hoping their "students", someday, can continue their own skills to serve the Church and society."

Surely, any religious man/ woman who enters the educational field confirms the graces they receive throughout their lives from their "trainers". Hence, they learn that the interior "mark" or "imprint" is the foremost impression in students' minds and hearts, and it may be one of the strongest motivations to promote themselves. Furthermore, trainers never stop praying for their alumni because they are responsible for their alumni's tomorrows.

"Living is giving, not selfish for self benefits" (Trinh Cong Son)

Author and Photos: Little Stream

Tản mạn: "BROTHERSHIP"

 Thanks be to God for your presence,

for your dedication in the Congregation,

in the role of enthusiastic member. 

I went on a pilgrimage to your hometown twice, 

and be really surprised by the devotion of Christians there.

I believe that you were nourished in this spiritual atmosphere, 

and surely this place was the cradle for your vocation.

One year ago, you were happy to enter the Congregation under the vow,

Promoting a vocational life in a common House with your brothers.

Today, the smile of happiness continues to bloom on your lip,

when you are going home, face-to-face with the Presence of God.

Going home, listen to the parish church bell;

Going home, listen to familiar prayers;

Going home, listen to the members' voices in the family;

Going home, lean on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

Your mother and father's tears, 

Make all the brothers unable to hold back their feelings.

Family and all of your brothers regret you, 

and pray for you, brother. 

May God receive your soul,

And lead to everlasting life. Amen.

Author: Little Stream

Photo: Jescom, SJVN.

Tản mạn: A MEMORY OF CHILDHOOD MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL

When I was a child, my Mid-Autumn lantern was in use for more than 10 years. That sounds incredible.

Then, my house was poor and all conditions were not as good as they are nowadays. My mother bought a Mid-Autumn lantern for me, which was shaped like a red spacecraft with a boy flying.

Before the Mid-Autumn Festival, my mom would take out the lantern from the cabinet and clean it gently two or three days beforehand. All preparations were in place for my Mid-Autumn Festival parade, including lanterns, as well as a Mid-Autumn Festival cake and fruit.

After the Festival, my mom put the lantern into a nylon bag again and stored it carefully in the cabinet. I still remember that the color of the larten changed from red to a dusty pink because it had been used for a long time. 

The memory of my childhood makes me happy on the Mid-Autumn Festival. Although my family was impoverished, my mom still prepared a meaningful Festival for me like other children. The joy of the child in the old days of attending Mid-Autumn activities becomes the happiness of a man whose mother's love has nourished him.

Author and Photo: Little Stream

Suy tư: MAKE ME A CHANNEL OF YOUR PEACE

(On memorial day of Grandmom's death) 

On the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the memorable motto "Make me a channel of your peace" echoes in my mind. How do I understand this motto? I want to answer this question with my own experience, through my grandmother's death.

Nearly one month ago, my grandmom passed away, and I learned many lessons through her death. She was more than 90 years old and died without sickness. I often talk to my aunts and uncles, "she is similar to the lamp that is out of oil, so we prepare all things for her death and funeral in peace." Surprisingly, recognizing the strange signs - peace signs through her death, this was the first time I had had direct experience in serving a dying person. 

First, my grandmother met all her sons and daughters before her death. It is rare for all members of my grandmother's family to gather together, as they are scattered across different parts of the world. However, they listen to their mother's wishes, arranging work and family to visit and stay with her at the end of her life. All brothers and sisters were happy to meet and share their lives, as they did when they were children at home. 

Second, my grandmother, a former Catholic nun, was a gentle and kind woman. When she was old, she forgot all things in her memory, but she only remembered prayers (traditional/ ancient prayers) in Latin and Vietnamese. It is a beautiful and significant example for all descendants. I think that my grandmom reminded all members of the family that "the ideas which you nourish in your heart during your life will be displayed clearly when you are old and mixed." 

Third, all members of my family realize the happiness in the death of my grandmom because of her blessed death. She lived a long life with a devoted heart for God, the Church, Family, and, in particular, for all her descendants. Therefore, her life is a peaceful channel of God, which is sent to each member of the family. Hence, living a happy Christian life is necessary than a sorrowful attitude. Furthermore, it is not a regret for a death person, but seeing the opportunities to be better for living persons.

Thank you, my grandmother! May the light of God lighten on your soul, and lead you to everlasting life. 

 

Author and Photo: Little Stream

Suy tư: THÉRÈSE OF LISIEUX - "LITTLE STREAM" OF GOD

Thérèse of Lisieux is well-known as the "Little Flower of God" or "Little Theresa". She was a young saint of the Catholic Church, born in 1873 and died in 1897. Nevertheless, the nickname "Little" did not originate from her young age (Thérèse died at the age of 24), but rather from her humble and simple life.

I often refer to Thérèse's nickname as the "Little Stream" since I view Thérèse's life as a gentle and snappy instrument in the hands of God's Providence.

First of all, a gentle life is characterized by generosity, kindness, and humility. Thérèse was generous when she answered God's call as a child. According to the story of Thérèse of Lisieux, she was the youngest of eight children, and her mother passed away when she was four years old. Although she was a little child, she yearned to be united with Christ in the Mass and in the hours of prayer. At the age of fifteen, Thérèse wished to attend the Carmelite monastery at Lisieux, and her dream came true. Now, it is not easy to find a small child who chooses the spiritual way that is similar to Thérèse. Entering the religious vocation, she continued to live with noble ideals despite the difficulties associated with it. Although receiving the negative perspective from her sisters, Thérèse still maintained kindness in her behaviors and attitudes towards others; above all, she maintained humility in prayer and unity with God, praying for souls and others. 

Next, we can wonder why Thérèse is a snappy instrument of God, and that is:

+ Pope Pius X called her "the greatest saint of modern times"; 

+ Pope John Paul II declared her a Doctor of the Church;

+ Well-known as the patron saint of missionary parishes.

A small, young, normal intelligence, and unremarkable girl who becomes a symbol for LOVE OF GOD and LOVE FOR ALL is incontrovertible; As her last words: "I will return to earth to make love loved. After my death, I will send a rain of roses. I want to spend my heaven doing good on earth" and "My God, I love you".

The stream is small and gentle, but it can wear away the rock! Thank You, marvelous God. 

Author & Photo: Little Stream