Writers' Forum - January 2015

Creativity is seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one could think” Albert Einstein

The Oxford Dictionary defines the word creativity as use of human imagination to create something new and innovative. The root word of creativity comes from the Latin word “Creare” which means to make or to create. What sets us apart from the rest of animal kingdom and makes us unique is human's ability to be creative. Humans in their deepest being long to be creative. What makes us human is the intense inherent striving to be creative, to be innovative and to be imaginative.

Unfortunately in today's globalised world creativity is restricted to very narrow and simplistic terms. In today's Inter-National Business Meet when the business tycoons speak of being creative and innovative, what they mean is the art of being deceptive and cunning. How can a particular product be produced at a low cost and make it attractive to customers and sell it at a higher price worldwide to generate profit? Cheap and best is the mantra of the day. Creativity sometimes is even equated to being weird and crazy. Today creativity remains at the level of peripheral cosmetic changes. Being creative in today's context is to design the latest and the cheapest automobiles, electronic gadgets, skyrocketing buildings, unintelligible art pieces and paintings.

There is a deeper dimension to creativity. Being creative is the very essence of every human being. In the book of Genesis we read that God created human being very differently from the rest of the creation. God does not create humans by his words alone but shapes man and breathes into his nostrils His

very breath, creative spirit and God puts humans as the stewards of His creation. Thus they name each of the created beings and become co-creators with God. This mission of Co-creation is an indispensible part of being human.

For every Jesuit, creativity is not an end in itself. It is always accompanied by fidelity to the God-given mission. Pedro Arrupe called it “Creative fidelity”. It is seeking and searching for the will of God in one's life and mission and being faithful to it until one's last breath. Arrupe himself stands as a role model to us for creative fidelity. Adolfo Nicolas, the Superior General, addressing the Latin American Jesuits said, “Church needs men of thoughtful consideration and deep reflection, masters of culture and wise.” This aptly summarizes Jesuit Creativity.

Being creative in today's context calls for acute awareness of the issues affecting us, sharp analysis of these issues and deep reflection on radical alternatives to existing problems. It is to create new structures and societies where human freedom, human dignity and human rights are not violated. Being creative is to build relationships between people of different cultures, languages, religions. Being creative is working towards the liberation of the oppressed, the poor and the marginalized. Can we put this God-given inner urge, potential energy and imagination to work toward establishing a society where every human being, animal and nature feels cared for and loved?

EditorialEditorialEditorialBala Kiran SJBala Kiran SJBala Kiran SJ

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Day after day man began to cudgel his brain in order to live a happy, peaceful life. Yes, he was feeling uneasy in this consumerist world. He saw numberless animals and birds, huge trees and mountains, deep valleys and rivers and increasing number of fellow human beings. He was tired of all these things. So he decided to get rid of these things and live with full freedom.

Day 1: He saw the green earth and the blue sky. He didn't like the combination of colours. Therefore he started burning plastics and thermocol. It affected the ozone layer and caused also air pollution. Man saw what he did, it looked good.

Day 2: Then he saw streams and rivers flowing with a soft noise. He wanted to silence them, so he dumped all sorts of waste into the rivers and polluted the water. After that, he saw what he did and felt happy.

Day 3: On the third day he saw beautiful plants and trees .So he began cutting them down in order to make use of the land and the wood. Then he saw his hard work; it was good, he thought.

Day 4: He saw plenty of birds and fish. He started catching them and killing them. Thus all birds and fish lost their lives. He was happy about it.

Day 5: Now he saw different kinds of animals, running around and enjoying life. So he caught them and put them in cages. He also killed many. Then he saw his work and appreciated himself.

Day 6 : On the sixth day he saw women singing and dancing. He disliked that and began abusing them. He used them to spoil the minds of youth. He made gadgets and

movies. He made use of women as objects to advertise goods. With the pollution of air, contamination of water and adulteration of food, millions died. Whoever opposed his ways was finished off. Then he saw what he did; it looked fine.

Day 7: So on the seventh day nothing was left on the earth. He had destroyed everything. He wanted to share his victory with someone. But there was nobody to listen to him.

There was no rain, no crops. There was nothing to eat and drink. Man was left alone; he felt lonely. He didn't have

anyone to talk to.

After all this havoc he finally rested, and rested for ever, never to get up again – a victim of his own making.

And He Rested....Forever And He Rested....Forever And He Rested....Forever

Arun Lobo SJArun Lobo SJArun Lobo SJ

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AN INTEGRAL SWACCH BHARAT?AN INTEGRAL SWACCH BHARAT?A NEW OUTLOOK AT THIS ABHIYAANA NEW OUTLOOK AT THIS ABHIYAANAN INTEGRAL SWACCH BHARAT?A NEW OUTLOOK AT THIS ABHIYAAN

Lancy Fernandes SJLancy Fernandes SJLancy Fernandes SJ

This year has been a year of several innovative campaigns (abhiyaans). Campaigns do bring in a lot of enthusiasm and find highlight in news channels. But some questions still remain. Why don't they subsist longer? Do these campaigns really target an effective change in immoral structures that hamper good values or peripheral change? Yes, if campaigns do not continue to address beyond personal motives, they will meet the same fate as the “India against corruption” venture.

This year the innovative fire began with the Ice Bucket Challenge in the West for a noble cause, namely, ALS (Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis) patients suffering from the neuro- degenerative disease. Several celebrities gave thumbs up for it. Due to the g r o w i n g g l o b a l connectivity, it spread to India too. But it also f a c e d c r i t i c i s m from several activists due to its negligent attitude towards ecological concern of water wastage. Yet an alternate campaign to it that enthralled all, was the Rice Bucket Challenge (the typical desi flavour) to feed the needy and poor. But my sympathy goes to another campaign, Mud Bucket Challenge (ecological initiative of a biodiversity preservation group) that hardly made headlines. What a plethora of ideas Sirji? 4G?

Similarly a few years ago we saw the 'pink chaddi' campaign against ruthless moral policing in the south. Muthalik's Sri Ram Sena was silenced and scared. This recently found its new shoot as we witnessed its nuanced and innovative form of protest - the 'Kiss of love,' a unique challenge starting in Kochi, Delhi, Mumbai and getting a grand response. It is due to spread to Bangalore soon amidst controversies. The political arena also learnt from these campaigns when we saw an innovative challenge, namely the Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan. It was a wonderful move from a new government which wanted to prove to the people

that they too are pro-people and pro-national. It spoke well to the sentiments of the people. Many celebrities were challenged to continue this noble venture.

But one thing that needs clarity is that these campaigns as such will not hit the core of Indian psyche, unless they force an attitudinal change. Swacch Bharat is a wonderful move like other campaigns. But the Indian psyche has not yet understood the gravity of the matter of cleanliness and the eco-friendly way of life because of its effect. Eastern religions, by their charisma, see God in every aspect of nature. But in practice adherents of some religions cannot but find a place to litter anywhere and everywhere possible. It is a known fact that Indians give utmost priority to keep their compounds and house yards clean, but will not ever feel anything about dropping the dirt and waste into the neigbhour's compound.

The reason for the failure of the above mentioned campaigns is that they have not effected inner transformation. These have remained at the external realm as outward commitments or external actions. Only a campaign which speaks for and forces an attitudinal change will boost external cleansing. For instance, the 'Kiss of Love' campaign is resisted because it has a message for immediate attitudinal change. But obscenity cannot be compromised. Who decides what is obscene is another big question.

We Indians need to get rid of our corrupt interior for life's issues and nature. The day we begin to see nature and people as subjects we will cease to be corrupt and will be clean inside (conscience/heart). Then external Swacchata will be relatively easy. The day we see nature too as having its share of respect for life, that will be the day we will begin to respect it and keep it clean. This is the change needed before endorsing an external change to bear fruit.

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Therefore a possible alternative is an abhiyaan that would help Swacchatha abhiyaan, namely, Swacch tan-man-dhan Abhiyaan that will ultimately lead to Swacch Rajneeti Abhiyaan. All these abhiyaans are interlinked.

Let us see for ourselves what the present government is speaking and doing. Today bringing back the b l a c k m o n e y seems to b e a political gimmick and not a genuine landmark. Is there subtle politics even within than enterprise to safeguard those affiliated to the ruling party? What we need today more, along with Swacch tan-man-dhan abhiyaan, is Swacch politics abhiyaan. On the campaign trail earlier this year, India's Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, appealed to voters by promising to combat corruption and clean up politics. He was rewarded with a huge national electoral victory as well as success in state elections last month. Talk the Walk?

Recently Mr Modi considerably broke the promise of real inclusive Swacch Bharat when he named 21 new members to his cabinet which included at least five people charged with very serious offenses as rape and rioting; a total of seven are facing prosecution. Ram Shankar Katheria from Agra, who was named junior education minister, has

b e e n a c c u s e d of more than 20 cr iminal offences including attempted m u r d e r a n d t h e promotio

n of religious or racial hostility. Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, the new junior chemicals and fertilizer minister, was another eye-catching choice.

He is charged with around 20 offences, including intent to wage war against India, criminal intimidation and abetting a mutiny. On most occasions, this is shaken off by excuses such as political rivalries. Walk the Talk?

According to the Association for Democratic Reforms in India, about one third of central and state legislators face charges, and amazingly politicians facing criminal charges are twice as likely to win election as those who are not. In India this is not new. But when will it change? Yes, only when there is an inclusive 'Swacch Bharat' beginning with interior swacchatha.

Are Mr Modi's ways a contradiction in terms when he wishes to clean India without total internal cleanliness at its root? Political sanitation is as important as sanitary cleansing. A new political culture is the need of the hour.

That will lead to an i n t e g r a l S w a c c h Bharat.

W h y d i s p l a y d o u b l e standards if the motive to cleanse I n d i a i s

genuine? Swacchata must be internal first, then external. One cannot speak of rooting out corruption and bringing back Black money and at the same time continue inducting corrupt people to represent the cabinet. We need non-corrupt leaders to lead India in its drive to cleanse our nation. This is the ultimate Swacch Bharat abhiyaan. Only then India will benefit from campaigns. When we don't catch the devil by his ears we will not be able to tame it.

� Above all, there is need for 'Swacch Mind' of governance. Our nation is truly in need of many other Swacchata Abhiyaans like cleansing from discrimination, communal tendencies and the concocted concept of development. But let us cleanse our inner motives first. Then development will not merely be signing projects that build industry and infrastructure and cleanse sacred rivers and build bullet fast trains. It will be a development that will take into account the well-being of the poor, raising their living standards and bringing a smile on their faces. May the tribe of Abhiyaanwalas with pure motives increase!


Lancy Fernandes SJLancy Fernandes SJLancy Fernandes SJ

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CREATIVE RELIGIOUSCREATIVE RELIGIOUSCREATIVE RELIGIOUSCV George SJCV George SJCV George SJ

Unless we are creative in conducting any programme, the audience or the participants will not be interested in us. They feel bored. The present generation is growing with a modernized culture. My nephew is just 11/5 years old. But the fact of the matter is that without a mobile

in hand he is not quiet. As we come across such participants in our ministry we are expected to be more creative. We must be able to go through their door and come out through ours as St. Ignatius said.

Sometimes we fail to come out through our door, because we get stuck with distractions. The trust placed in us should be well used. We can be creative. But that does not mean that we need to break all religious boundaries and go far. Even people outside are more competitive and creative than us. The difference is that our creativity should lead to the spread of the values of the Kingdom.

Once there was a crib-making competition .All tried to do it creatively. One particular group's crib

was very creative and attractive with ample light arrangement, hills, waterfalls, and buildings. But the pity was that baby Jesus was neglected; his manger was somewhere in a corner. Our creativity should not sideline the values of Christ; rather it must radiate them.

Once a novice master asked a novice to write nicely the words: Finding God in All Things. He also asked him to be creative, so

that it could be displayed in public. The novice looked for a creative way. On the final day he showed the chart to his novice master: it had the words: Finding things in all God.

We religious strain ourselves to be creative. For we know how important it is to be so. We try out our creativity in various fields. And we see that the outcome is different. So we try to be more creative in prayer, work, games, ministry and even in the refectory.

I u s u a l l y p l a y volleyball. At times my companions are so creative that while serving the ball they send it below the net rather than send it the usual way. And we call it their creativity.

In this modern world what do people expect from us as religious? Does the secular world need people confined to the four walls and are distinguished only by the label `holy'? No. Religious are expected to form a creative community. We need to become creative; it does not matter whether we are confined to the four walls or are out in the world.

All of us know the saying, when there are four Jesuits there are five opinions. That must be our creativity. At times I wonder what makes each one come out as such a creative person. All through my formation I have seen how creative my companions can be. It is the fruit of the freedom and total trust we have in the Society.

Religious life is basically leading a life of freedom with responsibility. When we are given freedom, we think out of the box, feel free to experiment new things, develop new creative skills.



CREATIVITY: LETTING GOCREATIVITY: LETTING GOCREATIVITY: LETTING GORyan Rodrigues SJRyan Rodrigues SJRyan Rodrigues SJ

Creativity can be summed up in the phrase 'Letting Go.' I was uncomfortable with the very word when I began my Jesuit journey.

When I reflect on those initial days and asked myself why I felt so then, the insight that I received enlightened me. I reduced creativity to art and painting and drawing and thermocol cutting and the like. I am no good at it as many other computer savvy people might be; but does that mean that I can't be creative? That is merely one type of creativity. Creativity grows out of limit situations. To be creative means to be ready to experience changes around you. To be creative is to embrace challenges and to learn from the hard realities of life. And for all this, one has to 'Let Go.'

Is systematic lifestyle diametrically opposed to creativity? To be creative, have we to be unorganized? Well, I believe that even highly systematic people can be creative. There is a certain order in the universe and yet there is disorder. The universe is unpredictable; time and time again when God chooses to surprise us, He is being creative. Creativity emerges from randomness. It springs from taking time off a daily routine. In fact what we think about when we have nothing to think about is

being creative.

In this fast moving and internet age everything is at lightening speed and we look for instant results. Creativity does not emerge as fast as we would like it to. It is a process that takes place in leisure. Creativity relaxes. It helps at times to take a rest and then give, live and work with ever renewed vigour and zeal.

Creativity needs a courageous self. It often scandalizes others when we dare to be different, but we o u g h t t o b e prepared to face t h e consequences of it. It is important to finish doing a c r ea t ive t a sk before you start to lose faith in y o u r s e l f . Creativity does not spend much t i m e i n rehears ing or thinking or doing a kind of self talk all the time with nothing concrete in reality even if we are not experts at it. A creative person is not afraid to experiment.

Let me sum up. Keeping to a routine is important, so also is being organized, may not be so much for our own selves as we can always find order in disorder, but for the sake of others who put up with us. However, creativity lies in taking time off from the humdrum of life. Creativity has to show itself in the Sitz im Leben – life situations. If we think that there exists a time for ourselves where we can express our creativity, that time will never come by. What drives me always forward when I reflect on creativity is the words of late Steve Jobs, “stay hungry, stay foolish.” It is a searching mind that can never rest from being creative. We may run out of ideas if we only rely on ourselves all the time. Reading, reflection and, more so, seeking inspiration from others can help us in this our creative venture.


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“The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination,” says Albert Einstein. There is a lot of scope for creativity for everyone on this earth. In this context it is important to see creatively the things which are already created. Seeing things creatively is also a kind of creativity w h i c h b r o a d e n s o u r imagination. Often we are inclined to think that creativity is the sole quality of artists, poets, architects, scientists, inventors and such other highly talented persons. We need to remind ourselves that God loves each human being; He has created him/her in His own image and likeness. I would like to focus on three categories of people, in whom this quali ty of creativity is seen very significantly. First, the differently-abled people, secondly, the martyrs for the faith, and finally, the missionaries. First, the differently-abled people are those deprived of one or other faculty: some have no eyes, others no legs, some others no hands, some are mentally retarded, some are deaf, some are HIV infected and so on...But They have their creativity in their own unique way. There are people among them who use their tongue, teeth, legs etc to draw a painting, play musical instruments, writing poems, books, music and the like. They also are human beings. Sometimes they are more creative than those who have no disabilities. Take for example Helen Keller, who became a highly educated person, even though she had never seen a person or heard his/her voice. There so many people like this, who have achieved wonderful things on this earth. Leave alone their achievements; each second of their life inspires crores of people to be creative. These are the people who choose to live creatively for others. Secondly, the martyrs. We have heard about the massive attack on Christians in Kandhamal, Orissa, Mangaluru, Gaza, Palestine etc. Why were they attacked? They tried a creative way through which they could serve the Lord better. They could have protected their life by giving up the faith, just as some others actually did.

But they were so creative that they sacrificed their life for the faith. Many innocent children were shot dead right in front of their parents; parents were brutally torched and killed in front of their children; houses were burnt and so on.. These are the people who offered their life creatively and became

martyrs for Christ. Thirdly, the missionaries. Each and every human being longs for his/her safety. Generally, first we think of ourselves and then of others. I consider the missionaries too to be creative people. When most of the people want to have a lot of wealth, a good family and a comfortable life, these lead a simple and exemplary life. First of all, they choose a creative life to be missionaries - a life others do not dare to think

about. They travel thousands of miles and work in remote places, where there are no basic facilities. Though they know that there is a lot of danger to their life, they go preaching Christ to the people, just trusting in Divine Providence. They really inspire me through their simple living and challenging life. These are the people who choose to be creative for the sake of the Kingdom. Now in reality, the differently-abled people are those who are renewing the earth with their inspiring and motivating lives. The martyrs in various places have become true witnesses of Christ and given their life for those who were dead in faith. The missionaries in remote places go an extra mile to add many people to the flock of Christ. Their daring lives, ever ready to face tremendous challenges, call for a deeper reflection.

CREATIVITY IN LIVINGCREATIVITY IN LIVINGCREATIVITY IN LIVINGNishanth Noronha SJ Nishanth Noronha SJ Nishanth Noronha SJ



CREATIVITY REQUIRES HUMILITYCREATIVITY REQUIRES HUMILITYCREATIVITY REQUIRES HUMILITYPreethesh Misquith Preethesh Misquith Preethesh Misquith

HUMOURHUMOURHUMOUR

I am a catechism teacher in one of the parishes which is near our seminary. Once I thought of taking the catechism class creatively. It was for the 7th standard students. I prepared many questions from the bible, with the idea of having an interactive class. Most of my students are very naughty and very active too. I asked many theological questions; some they

a n s w e r e d a n d s o m e they could not. As I was a s k i n g questions I saw John on t h e l a s t b e n c h , sleeping. I woke him up and asked him a tricky q u e s t i o n : “Why had

the woman in the Gospel who was married to seven brothers no children?” He stood up and almost like fooling me said, “Brother, the answer is so simple: the woman was barren”. On listening to his creative answer, I felt a bit embarrassed and told him to sit down.

After some time I saw Peter talking and arguing with his brother Andrew. I told them to stand up and asked what they were discussing. Andrew

answered g e n t l y , “Brother, we were t a l k i n g a b o u t G o d ' s creation in Genesis.” I felt very h a p p y t h i n k i n g m y s t u d e n t s w e r e m a t u r e enough.

Then I asked them what their discussion was about. Peter said that they were arguing whether God created the egg first or the hen. I got annoyed and asked them to stand on the bench. As they stood on the bench, Andrew told me, “Brother, even after standing on the bench, we are not getting the answer, maybe there is no range here”. Suddenly Shaila got up from the middle bench and asked me, “Brother, why did God not like Cain's offering?” Before I could open my mouth t o a n s w e r h e r question, Shanti stood up and said to Shaila, “You do not know such a simple thing! God did not accept Cain's offering, because God is a pure non- vegetarian. The entire class started to laugh and make a lot of noise. I was not ready to give up the class, so I told everybody to stand up and recite the 'Our Father'. Everybody was reciting it except Thomas. When I asked him why he was not reciting the prayer, he said firmly, “Brother, today my mother has prepared Biryani, and hence there is no need of bread today; so I will recite the prayer tomorrow.” By then the time got over. I slowly walked out of the class, realizing that “CREATIVITY REQUIRES HUMILITY”.



CREATING A TASTE FOR CREATING A TASTE FOR CREATIVE THINGS CREATIVE THINGS

CREATING A TASTE FOR CREATIVE THINGS

Ovin Rodrigues SJ Ovin Rodrigues SJ Ovin Rodrigues SJ

A man constantly desired to go to heaven. He was dreaming of fanciful things of heaven such as delicious non–vegetarian

meals, nice music, beautiful gardens and so on. Finally he landed up there. He was placed in a superb bungalow. H e e n j o y e d t h e sumptuous chicken biryani and a large glass of wine. The m u s i c w a s v e r y p l e a s a n t a n d h e enjoyed looking at the spectacular garden. Day after day he used to get the same food. The music was not different and there were no changes in the garden. He was tired, bored, irritated and frustrated. He had a hellish experience in heaven. When he was crying in desperation an angel asked him to move out of his bungalow and enjoy the things outside. Now his approach was changed. He looked at things in a different way. He tried many innovative ways and lived a happy life.

Routine can spoil the beauty of life. We are often tired of doing the same things. As religious we have a great threat of such routine. Every day the Eucharist is the same. All the activities in our religious life remain as usual. At times prayer, community life, our responsibilities, apostolate and other things tend to be boring. Even in the refectory many dishes rotate periodically. We are prone to get fed up. In this case what can we do? Everything under the sky is not interesting always. Even our friend mentioned above felt the same in heaven. We can't change others and our surroundings. But we can surely change ourselves- our way of thinking, perception, of doing things, etc.

Creativity is a necessity in this regard. It is always nice if we think out of the box and do things in a different way. For instance, we can employ a wide range of creativity to make Mass meaningful and lively. A good introduction, different kinds of hymns and music, spontaneous intentions

and offertory prayers are some of the ways that can make our daily Eucharist interesting. We ourselves can train our mind to perceive things in a creative way. This applies to all other fields too. But there is also a danger of too much creativity that might divert our focus.

Let us try, then, to be creative. It takes a little courage, risk and some effort to cudgel our brains

to come out with something different. The challenge from the conservatives will be there always. I personally feel that when we employ creativity, people become lively and pay more attention to what is being said or done.

I remember watching on the TV a man ate tea powder and sugar. Then he drank some milk and started dancing vigorously. He was trying to make a creative tea in his stomach. Creativity may look crazy like this, but surely we will learn and grow a lot. Therefore, let us try to bring into our life an element of constructive and creative thinking

a n d d o i n g . This may make a difference in our life and i n t h e lives of o t h e r s too.



CREATIVITYCREATIVITYCREATIVITYPruthvi Ryanal Rodrigues SJPruthvi Ryanal Rodrigues SJPruthvi Ryanal Rodrigues SJ

C –Conquer the

R- Routine

E- Elevating

A- All

T- That

I-Intently

V-Vibrates

E-Everyone

n my opinion, being creative does not mean that we Ineed to change the structures, rules or any common practices. We need to break down the routine and take

all things anew with the help of our past rich experiences so that our presence and our action makes all those around us vibrate with and enthusiastic about it. We can be creative anywhere, from the time we say good-bye to our bed till we retire at night. A Jesuit needs to be creative in his approach to his own life. So let us do away with our routine in our ministry, community, or anywhere where we are, and live a life of “joy” and “Magis” so that we may be a blessing to our neighbours.

What is your uppermost feeling as you are just ordained as priest? I feel a sense of gratitude. It's a humbling experience. While I am eagerly waiting for it, I must admit there is a little anxiety too.

How would you image your life in the Society?Society of Jesus is like a potter. Just like raw clay is moulded, I feel that my life was shaped by the Society. St. Ignatius inspires me and I wish to have a little spark from his spirit.

What is your learning in these years of your formation to priesthood? How would you find yourself as a priest?I see myself a transformed person today. Training in the Society transforms us. All these years we have collecting blood; now the time has come to shed it.

What is your vision and mission as a priest?I am inspired by this little phrase: To live as Jesus lived. To

love as He loved. I hope to live it. That's my vision and mission.

How is priesthood relevant to this generation?I think priesthood is more relevant than ever before to this generation. A priest is a witness to Christ. The present generation expects an authentic witness from a priest.

As the minister of the Church, how will you bear witness to the person of Christ?It is to become another Christ, “Alter Christus” to the people we serve. By our values, attitudes and lifestyle we preach Christ.

What would be your message to your younger brothers in the Society? I would say that all of us, must strive to become Jesuits after the mind and heart of St. Ignatius.

I N T E R V I E W W I T H I N T E R V I E W W I T H FR ROSHAN CASTELINO SJ FR ROSHAN CASTELINO SJ I N T E R V I E W W I T H FR ROSHAN CASTELINO SJ



CREATIVITY IN LIKENESSAND IMAGE OF GOD

In one of my sessions, I once asked a girl, what she associated with art and her reply was quick and straight, “emotion”, “expression” and

“creativity”. I am sure many of us would arrive at similar consensus. Though the first two may be confined to arts, creativity transcends arts and permeates into all spheres of human activity. We see creativity in science, business, technology and e v e r y f i e l d o f specialization. Our book stores are filled with books on creativity like “ L a t e r a l t h i n k i n g ” , “Think outside the box” and so on. There is a hunger for something new, a longing for something different and an urge for innovation.

C r e a t i v i t y o r creative activity provides an impetus to live a fuller life for all those who engage in it. Among the many definitions of humans, “human beings are creative beings”, is one. In creative activity humans find expression to themselves. Therefore, creativity is not reserved only to artists, writers, philosophers, musicians, but is open for everyone.The notion of creativity has various nuances and can be explored from various perspectives. But, in this brief article, I would like to reflect on it from a theological perspective. After reflecting on the root of human creativity and its origin, I would go on to reflect on what real creativity is and what it does to human beings.

The root of human creativity: Human creativity stems from the fact of being created as human. Genesis 1: 26 – 27 reveals, “"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness' ... So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” In these texts, we see primarily that God created humans according to divine image and likeness; therefore, humans share in the life of God and participate in his work.

But what does it really mean to be created in God's image and likeness? The key phrase is, “image and likeness”. The Hebrew word for “image” is “selem” which means a duplicate or an idol, and for likeness it is “demut”, which means appearance, similarity, analogy or copy. Though these words have created considerable confusion among the scholars, most agree that both are complementary, each

making the proposition more precise.

It basically means that we are a snapshot or facsimile of God. At the least it means that humans alone are imprinted with God like character. Our greatest fulfilment is to fully actualize this godlikeness.

Human creative power originates from God: God is the only true Creator, while man's creativity is part of God's image and likeness given to man at creation. We create because God created,

and we are creative because God is creative: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). However, God creates out of nothing ("ex nihilo"), while man can "create" only out of pre-existing things. Further, man is wholly dependent upon God in his creativity because his creative ability, his very existence, and the pre-existing "raw materials" he uses all come to him from God.

Implications of being created as creative beings: Having been created in God's image, and being bestowed with godlike capacities we are not just finished products. Unlike Plato's notion of ideal forms, our creativity is not just the carbon copies of that absolute form, but rather as Aristotle puts it, our creativity rests not so much in being as in becoming. Each one of us has the potential to express our creativity, though distinctively. We ought to express ourselves and thereby actualize our true human nature, which is to be godlike.

Sujay Daniel



True creativity and false creativity: Creativity can never be restricted to innovative thoughts, novel ideas, and path-breaking initiatives. True creativity can never be isolated from the well-being of people, never blind to the cries of nature and environment. But, sadly, today creativity is confined to brilliant ideas to sell products, innovative and effective methods to eliminate vast populations, systematic organization of oppressive societies, and ruthless plundering of natural wealth - this is false creativity.

Characters of true creativity: 1.� True creativity rests on the firm foundation of God.

2.� True creativity helps humans to channelize their intellect, will and emotion in life-promoting and life-sustaining direction.

3.� True creativity transforms human work into an act of charity in loving service, especially towards the deprived and discriminated people. 4.� True creativity brings into awareness the interconnectedness of things at the very organic level.5.� True creativity works for the complete realization of human rights. 6.� True creativity makes us not destroyers and dominators of nature but protectors and stewards of creation. Conclusion: Through creativity, we become partners in God's creating and saving plan. We are called to put on the mantle of Christ to have a new creative abundant life (Rom 6:4, Jn 15:11). True creativity lies in actualizing the image and likeness of God freely bestowed on us, by becoming aware of the radical interrelatedness with all creation, and thus becoming persons who promote and protect life rather than dominate over and destroy life.

What is your uppermost feeling as you are just ordained as priest?Gratitude

How would you image your life in the Society?I image my life in the Society as a growing plant which has been well taken care, watered and manured to bear good fruit.

What is your learning in these years of your formation to priesthood? How would you find yourself as a priest? The greatest learning I had is that I am loved by God. The Society of Jesus has trusted me so much. I have grown in freedom because of the trust reposed in me, and I've grown in responsibility. I see myself as a priest to be a blessing for all.

What is your vision and mission as a priest? My Mission is to be a compassionate person like Jesus, and to treat everyone as a child of God and hence as one to be respected.

How is priesthood relevant in this generation?Priesthood is more relevant today than ever before. In a fast changing and globalised world, values and especially human values are changing. We have more facilities and comforts, but less time for others. Everything is measured in

terms of money; therefore there is a need of a counter culture where the human values are respected and Christ's values need to be communicated. Therefore there is a real need of committed priests.

As the minister of the Church, how will you bear witness to the person of Christ?Being a Christian is becoming another Christ. By our vocation to priesthood we are called to be closer to Jesus and to live his values in our life. Such a witness can be borne only through our lives.

What would be your message to your younger brothers in the Society?Love and be compassionate.

INTERVIEW WITH

FR LANCY DIAS SJ

CREATIVITY IN LIKENESSCREATIVITY IN LIKENESS

AND IMAGE OF GODAND IMAGE OF GOD

CREATIVITY IN LIKENESS

AND IMAGE OF GOD Sujay DanielSujay DanielSujay Daniel Cont’d from pg. 12Cont’d from pg. 12Cont’d from pg. 12


Pg. 14Pg. 14Pg. 14 Writers’ ForumWriters’ ForumWriters’ Forum

INTERVIEW WITH INTERVIEW WITH FR ARUN PRASHANTH D'SOUZA SJFR ARUN PRASHANTH D'SOUZA SJ

INTERVIEW WITH FR ARUN PRASHANTH D'SOUZA SJ

What is your uppermost feeling as you are just ordained as priest?

Joy and gratefulness! I feel joyful because my childhood dream of being a priest of Christ has become a reality. I feel grateful to God, my parents and members of my family, companions and formators and all those people who have contributed so much in this journey to priesthood. I believe without their constant support and guidance this dream would have remained but a dream.

How would you image your life in Society of Jesus?I am only an instrument in the hands of God. I am the clay, a pencil, a branch…. I am convinced God knows how to get the best out of me.

What is your learning in these years of formation? How would you find yourself as a priest?When I look back at these years of formation I realize I am not the same person that I was 15 years back. First of all, my formative years have molded me into a better humane person. These years have enabled me to have a better knowledge and understanding of God, society and self. would like to see myself as someone who is committed to Christ and his people. As a priest I would consider myself a servant of Jesus and make myself available for the needs of the Society.

What is your vision and mission as a priest?To radiate Jesus and His values! In other words, to be another Jesus Christ in my thoughts, words and actions. I am convinced my call is to be with the least, the last and the lost

of society. My mission is to be with those who are on the periphery.

How is priesthood relevant to this generation?If we believe that Christ is still relevant then his priesthood is also relevant. We need to define, or may be re-define, the traditional concept of priesthood. Jesus came to heal the brokenness. We need to have the same heart of Jesus. Today a priest has to become a healer. He has to involve himself in the life struggles and

brokenness of the people. He cannot remain secluded and secure in his comfort zones. A priest today has to reach out, venture out and stand up for the values of the Kingdom.

As the minister of the church how will you bear witness to Christ?By my life! I believe there cannot be any substitute for life example.

What would be your message to your younger brothers in Society of Jesus?Live life for others; let God and you be the masters of your life; do not be afraid to be what you are.


What is your uppermost feeling as you are just ordained as priest?

A mixture of feelings well up in my heart. It's difficult to name a particular feeling. At this point of time, I f e e l a g r e a t s e n s e o f unworthiness coupled with a deep gratitude of heart.

How would you image your life in the Society?

As the book of Qohelet Ch 3 reads: “there is a time for everything. A time to sow, a time to reap, a time to cry and a time to celebrate”. I feel the years of formation were the days of moulding to equip myself for the mission. Being an Ordained priest opens up a new horizon. It is now my time to bear fruit.

What is your learning in these years of your formation to Priesthood?

Oh! This reminds me of Socrates, a great Greek philosopher, whose watchword was: “Know Thyself”.

I see the formation years as discovering my own self in the light of Christ. The spiritual direction was a torch light in this journey.

How would you find yourself as a Priest?

Being a Priest of God is my childhood dream. First and foremost I thank God for giving me this grace. When I imagine myself as a priest, I am always reminded of Mother Teresa's advice to a Jesuit scholastic. “Being a priest is not enough, being a good priest is important…. The Jesuit vocation is a very special type of religious vocation, called to a great spirituality. The Society has given many saints to Mother Church. You are called to aim at nothing less….”

What is your Vision and Mission as a Priest?

To experience His presence at every moment of my life and to be a blessing to the world.

INTERVIEW WITH

FR ROBERT RODRIGUES SJ

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Writers' Forum - January 2015

Spiritual

Transcript of Writers' Forum - January 2015