SADHANALAYA TITBITS
- Fr. Tony V. D’Souza, SJ

February brought the Novitiate many gifts and blessings. The first was in the form of a 4-day course on Maharashtrian religiosity, Marathi Christian literature and Ignatian Spirituality by Tony George. He unfolded masterfully and through a bi-lingual medium, the riches of Maharashtrian religiosity and literature, giving Novices a taste of these things and integrating them into Ignatian spirituality..

February in Nashik means the Shrine Feast and the Novices generously offered their services in ushering, and lending a hand wherever needed, sometimes working with the Pre-novices. This was another gift in the form of a first hand experience of the deep faith of people and popular religiosity. Touching and instructive indeed.

The next grace came in the form of the ‘slum’ and hospital’ experiments’ in which Novices are presently engaged. You will find them in the slums in Nashik and Asha Daan and Home for the Aged in Mumbai. Don’t be surprised if on visiting a hotel in Nasik you are offered tea with a smile by a ‘table boy’ Novice. His humble earning will pay for his stay in the family. They will return with a wealth of experiences, which they hope to share with you in the near future. Keep them in your prayers.