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, and Sch. Novario Francisco Guterres Martins, SJ. The celebration, presided over by Regional Superior Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, witnessed by the novices’ families, friends, and the Jesuit community, was a culmination of spiritual dedication and commitment.

The journey leading to this moment was characterized by unwavering support from the novices’ families, particularly their mothers, who played a pivotal role in nurturing their sons’ spiritual aspirations. Sch. Felix, SJ mother, shared her profound journey of faith, recounting how her son’s desire to serve God had been evident since his high school days. Despite initially envisioning a different path for him, she surrendered to the divine calling, entrusting her beloved son to God’s providence. Her prayers were answered when Felix was accepted into the Novitiate of the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste, a moment she describes as a testament to the guidance of Mother Mary and the fulfillment of God’s will.

Similarly, Scholastic Novario, SJ, reflected on the significance of his first vows as a response to God’s call and a gratitude for the spiritual nourishment he received throughout his novitiate formation. His journey of discernment began in his youth, where he felt the stirring of God’s voice beckoning him towards a life of service. Today, as he takes this pivotal step, he sees it as a call for God’s mercy and love for his past transgressions and to wholeheartedly embrace the path illuminated by divine grace.

As the Jesuits of East Timor region, families and collaborators rejoices in the commitment of these five scholastics, their prayers extend towards a future filled with unwavering dedication of more Timorese to serving the Lord. Through their vows, they embark on a journey of selfless service and spiritual growth, guided by the principles of Ignatian spirituality and the values of the Gospel of Christ.

In the spirit of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God), we congratulate Sch. Danilo, Sch. Efrizido, Sch. Eugenio, Sch. Felix, and Sch. Novario on this significant milestone and offer prayers for their continued perseverance and faithfulness of their vocations in fulfilling God’s will. May their lives be a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and service, inspiring others to walk boldly in the footsteps of Christ.

AMDG.

Writer: Iriana Soares