From: "Bernado Colaco" <[email protected]
'But for the oppressed freedom'? Strange statement from Fr. Ivo, and truly paradoxical in the age where the religion that he preaches is under the threat of fundamentalists and terrorists in a 'liberated' Goa.
***This statement comes from the epitaph on the grave of the selfless freedom fighter, Carlos da Cruz. He lived it till his death. It is based on the Gospel values. Jesus said at his inaugural speech in the synagogue of Nazareth, where he revealed his mission: "The Spirit of God anointed me and sent me to proclaim the Good News of liberation to the poor, freedom to captives" (cf.Luke 4:16-21). Therefore, it is not "strange" for the Christian communities. There are people who are living it wholeheartedly. Not only Christianity is under threat of fundamentalists and terrorists, but all religions and ideologies are in danger. It is up to all of us to struggle for the fundamental human rights. Rights of minorities are human rights. Christianity has fought always for human rights. Persecution during the first four centuries could not wipe out a 'religion of love'. Nor can it destroy now. As a leaven, it is powerful. That is the reason for persecution. The 'small flock' is fulfilling its mission. If Goa is to be 'liberated' in the full sense of the word, we need that leaven. We still need freedom in the greatest democracy of the world.
Regards. Fr.Ivo He died poor without leaving one pie. He devoted himself for the uplift of the masses. We find these words on his grave: "Life for him was a mission,/His daily lot a martyrdom,/Honours and wealth he sought not,/But for the oppressed freedom".
