Voices from Asia with a Catholic perspective

In today’s gospel episode, Herod shows all the insecurity someone in power can display when one more apparently threatening event occurs and the insecure person seeks to eradicate the threat. The insecure power holder really wants to eradicate the threat but dares not allow his real fears to become known. That is what Herod is trying to do unsuccessfully because his ploy is so obvious. What should he or we, when we rein such a position, do to overcome our fears? The truth will set us free.

Christ's call for us to take up the cross is an invitation to learn that though suffering is always with us and may make us think God is far from us, it is actually a share in the life of God who also takes up the cross.

Minorities and vulnerable communities are facing threats and rights abuses from repressive regimes and extremist forces, while economic hardships from Covid-19 are increasing the woes of millions. These stories and more in this week’s podcast.

In preparation for the reopening of churches, bishops have an opportunity to raise the quality of liturgical service. Workshops for clergy on preaching and liturgy can be done remotely while waiting for the resumption of normal activities. Father William Grimm, who lives in Japan,  shares some thoughts on this.

With 132 million people aged between 15-33, Pakistan is the fifth largest young country in the world. The Muslim-majority nation also has the second-largest youth population in South Asia after India. However, young people from religious minorities, such as Christians and Hindus, face social discrimination. They have fewer opportunities for education, jobs, and to develop their talents. Organizations like Youth Development Foundation or YDF attempt to bridge this gap through collaborative programs. Shahid Rehmat, YDF, Executive Director in conversation with Kamran Chaudhary.