DEO GRATIAS!
(Reflections from Fr. Joaquim Sarmento, SJ as a Personal Assistant during Pope Francis visits in Timor-Leste) The ‘shock’ is over. Only at this point, I start to gain full consciousness on how great was the privilege and honor the Bishops entrusted to me to assist the Holy Father Pope Francis in his recent visit to […]
Spotlight on Manuel Mendonça Araujo: A Journey of Vocation at Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB)
Since joining the Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB) in January 2018, Manuel Mendonça Araujo has made significant contributions as a full-time lecturer in the English department. Guided by the principles of Jesuit and Inclusive Education, Manuel is dedicated to helping others, spreading faith, and striving to make a positive impact in the lives of […]
“Uniting Faith and Action: Addressing Timor’s Ecological Crisis”
In a time of immense environmental challenges—from climate change to biodiversity loss—the world urgently needs a moral and spiritual response. The ecological crisis threatens not only the planet but also the livelihoods and dignity of countless people, especially the most vulnerable. In recognition of this, the Jesuits have made ecology a central part of their […]
Pope Francis Inspires Timor-Leste’s Youth with Love, Service, and Respect for Tradition”
On the final day of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Visit to Timor-Leste, he met with the nation’s youth in a joyful and inspiring encounter. The excitement was high as young people from across the country gathered to hear the Pope’s message of love, unity, and responsibility. He urged them to turn away from hatred and embrace […]
The Essence of Pursue Education in Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB)
In this edition of our newsletter, we’re excited to feature an inspiring interview with Basilio Soares Maia, a dedicated student at ISJB. Founded by the Jesuits, ISJB is committed to training exceptional educators equipped with deep knowledge, professional ethics and, a holistic approach to teaching. Basilio chose ISJB for its comprehensive training methods, which emphasize […]
Personal Reflection on Our Journey with Father Joaquim, SJ, to the Mountains of Cacusa
As I reflected on our journey with Father Joaquim, SJ, to the mountains of Cacusa, I experienced God’s love in a profound way that led me to discover His presence in creation. Cacusa is the highest mountain in Dili, and at one moment, I witnessed the beauty and deep peace of the. This filled my […]
“I become a thousand men and yet remain myself.”
Life as a scholastic is mainly about being “Sent to Study” to help grow the kingdom of God and to be ready to act where needed. At Loyola House of Studies (LHS) in the Philippines, our formation starts with activities that build relationships among the scholastics and with the formators. These activities create a strong […]
Adveniat Regnum Tuum: “Jesuits are called to be companions of the companion of the Lord”
As a young Jesuit who just started laboring in God’s Vineyard, I have always looked up to a brother, a father, and a companion who had spent their whole life laboring in God’s Mission fully before me. One of the thousands that I admire are Jesuit Missionaries who had been a special witness of self-abnegation […]
“Beyond the Gift: Pope Francis’ Call to Daily Prayer for World Peace Through the Rosary”
It is a common gesture of Pope Francis that, whenever he visits a country, he gives a rosary to those he encounters. But what is deeper within this? What message does the Pope want to convey? Even during meetings with Jesuits on his visits, he hands them a rosary. Could this be his way of […]
Meeting the Pope: Self-Reflections from Jesuit
The excitement in the air was palpable as the Pope visited our midst. In the days leading up to his arrival in Timor-Leste, I closely followed his talks and meetings in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. When his plane finally touched down at Dili Airport, I felt immense relief, grateful for his safe travel and […]