“One-Year Navigation in juniors Formation”
As I venture out into new places, I am constantly struck by the beauty of God’s Creation. From the towering mountains to the lush forests, churches, museums, and cities, and watching plays and drama, each place I visit is a testament to the immense creativity and artistry of the Divine. Everywhere I look, I see […]
Exploring Five Years in India: A Journey of Reflection and Growth
“An unexamined life is not worth living,” remarked the great philosopher, Socrates. As I reflect on my five-year journey in India, I find profound truth in these words. In the crucible of diverse experiences, I unearthed invaluable lessons that have reshaped my outlook on life and learning. Here, I delve into four fundamental aspects that […]
JSS Newsletter: A Journey of Faith and Service
We are delighted to share with you the remarkable journey of José da Costa, a dedicated member of our Jesuit Social Service (JSS) family, who has recently embarked on a new chapter as a Novice in the Jesuit community. José’s path to JSS began through his involvement in MAG+S Timor-Leste activities. What started as a […]
It was a time to listen, to learn and LOVE more the mission of GOD.
“After taking my simple perpetual vows last Saturday, April 27, 2024, I embarked on a journey towards a new phase of life as a Jesuit scholastic within the Juniorate Program, embracing the community that God has destined for me. It marks a transition, inviting me to adapt and flourish in this fresh chapter of my […]
Celebrating a Milestone: The Jesuits in Timor-Leste Marks First Vows of Five Novices
On April 27, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded in the heart of Imaculate Conception parish in Balide, Dili, as the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste had eucharistic celebration of first vows for five novices: Sch. Danilo Soares, SJ, Sch. Efrizido Amon Alves Correia, SJ, Sch. Eugenio da Cruz Maia, SJ, Sch. Felix Fernandes Coutinho, SJ, […]
“Volunteerism is not just a seasonal activity; it’s a WAY of LIFE that begins now.” (Josefina Villanueva)
Josefina Villareal Villanueva, whose journey has been shaped by growing up in a family of 5 siblings, learned resilience and self-reliance being the youngest in her family. Having lived modestly in the Philippines, she embraced simplicity = finding joy in the little things. Making friends by knocking on neighbors’ doors and soliciting things she needed in school made her very […]
Meet Gavin: Bridging Worlds Through Volunteerism
“I am really impressed by how educated and travelled the people I work with. Also, the standard of English is very impressive. Everyone is very genuine and friendly and are very studied in the Catholic Religion,” shared Gavin, a dedicated volunteer contributing his expertise to the Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB) in Timor-Leste. At […]
Damian Glania: A Software Engineer’s Journey of Volunteerism and Cultural Immersion
Damian Glania, a 58-year-old software engineer from Munich, Germany, has devoted more than 14 years to volunteer work with the Jesuits in different communities. Additionally, for nearly 20 years, he has broken away from his routine work with machines and logic to volunteer at a social service center at the Munich train station called “Bahnhofsmission” on […]
Strengthening the Jesuit Mission
New Development Officers (DO) from various Jesuit missions in Asia and the Pacific convened in the beautiful city of Cebu, Philippines last April 10-14, 2024 for a transformative and fruitful gathering. It was meticulously planned with the purpose of cultivating enriching dialogues, encouraging ongoing learning, and fostering strong sense of unity among all DO’s. The […]
Volunteerism that leads to self-discovery and cultural exchange- Killian
Meet Killian, a passionate volunteer from France, who has spent over a year in Timor-Leste. With a background in engineering, he pursued studies for five years before deciding to enter the seminary almost five years ago. Seeking further experiences, he ventured into volunteering in a distant country, away from his family and comfort zone. After […]