Colégio de Santo Inácio de Loiola (CSIL)-Kasait, began the new academic journey with grateful hearts, allowing harmony to inspire our thoughts and guide our work and actions, so that everything we do may be for the greater glory of God. We have passed through the month of January and have moved into February with a dynamic schedule and new developments in the learning process. As students adjust to these changes, they are full of enthusiasm and hope for the journey ahead.
It was a great honour to welcome Elisabeth University of Music staff and students to our college. Their beautiful musical performances touched our hearts and reminded us that music is a universal language of love and hope. Through their melodies, we experienced unity, joy, and the vibrant spirit of Jesuit education alive within our community.
Alongside these activities, we also celebrated the Day of Love under the theme, “Amor demonstrado em ações, não em palavras.” Inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola’s phrase in his Spiritual Exercises, “Love must consist more in deeds than in words” (EE, 230), our students and faculty expressed love through concrete actions of service and generosity. This Ignatian principle reminded us that authentic love is lived out daily through compassion, dedication, and self-giving.
The celebration continued with a vibrant fashion show that highlighted the creativity and enthusiasm of our students. We warmly congratulate all who participated, especially those who received awards for their outstanding performances.
February also marked the beginning of the Lenten season with the celebration of Ash Wednesday Mass, a profound moment of prayer, silence, and conversion of heart. As we received the ashes, we reflected on the call: “Repent and believe in the Gospel.” Lent is a sacred time to renew our relationship with God, who knows our weaknesses, temptations, and struggles. The words of the prophet Joel reminded us that God is inviting us to “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, prayer, and charity.” God desires not merely outward gestures, but truly converted hearts. This season invites us to return to Him in faith, trusting that He patiently waits for His people with mercy and love.
As an Ignatian community, we make our journey together in preparation for Easter, striving to live the Magis – seeking the “more” in generosity, service, and excellence – in our families, studies, friendships, and care for others. May this Lenten season draw us closer to God, guiding us always toward Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam.
After the eventful week, students continued with their midterm exams for the first semester. For Grade 7 and Grade 10 students, this is a new and formative experience. Claricia from Grade 7A shares:
“This year marks the beginning of my new journey as a student at Loyola. Before coming here, I heard many stories from friends who studied at Loyola, and now I feel privileged to be part of this community. Today is my first exam at Loyola. I was also chosen to play the violin and perform on stage. I felt nervous while performing in front of the director, the students of Elisabeth University of Music, and all my schoolmates. But with the support of my team and teachers, the challenge turned into motivation. I became more confident, and now I hope I can grow more at Loyola”.
Through this heartfelt testimony, we hope that all students will continue to learn from one another, share their gifts generously, and grow in faith and love. Therefore, together as a community, we may serve one another more fully and faithfully.
Written by: Maria Fatima Faria de Carvalho, CSIL Communications Officer