Fifth Sunday of Lent, March 26, 2023

With support from Canadian Jesuits International, the Human Life Development Centre (HLDRC) has launched a number of programs that offer alternative livelihood opportunities for tea plantation workers and their families. HLDRC is a project of the Jesuit Darjeeling Province. Photo: HLDRC

“I am the resurrection and the life.”
John 11:25, Gospel

Lent calls us to reflect on the passion of Jesus Christ. We must always remember that as followers of Christ, we live in faith and hope of the Resurrection.

The Lenten season invites us to reflect on the theme of human dignity. The world needs voices to promote peace and defend human rights. When people work with those struggling for social justice and dignity in the world, it provides a glimpse of the Resurrection.

Among those that offer hope is the Human Life Development and Research Centre (HLDRC), which accompanies tea plantation labourers in North Bengal, India, who are often deprived of their rights. Canadian Jesuits International supports HLDRC.

HLDRC and CJI depend on the commitment and generosity of others—their partners in mission— who engage in social transformation and in building peace as well as provide the necessary resources to address the injustices through initiatives such as seminars on legal and socio-economic issues, leadership training, and alternative livelihood opportunities.

HLDRC’s work empowers, inspires, educates, and gives hope in the face of injustices.

— Jubin Nath Maria Lawrence SJ is from the Jamshedpur Jesuit Province, India. He is currently in his second year of Master of Divinity studies at Regis College, Toronto.

Pause and reflect on what you have just read. Pick one word that stands out for you, either in the Scripture or the reflection.
What message does that word convey to you, if any?
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.