On July 31st, we commemorated the feast day of St. Ignatius of Loyola, an important occasion for the community of Colégio de Santo Inácio de Loyola (CSIL) Kasait, Timor-Leste. This year, our celebration was particularly special as we had the unique opportunity to join the Ignatian family and collaborators of the Jesuit mission in East Timor on a pilgrimage to Soibada.

This pilgrimage was not just a celebration of St. Ignatius but also marked the 125th anniversary of Jesuit presence in East Timor and the 25th anniversary of Father Joaquim da Silva Sarmento’s priesthood. These milestones underscore our deep connection and commitment to the Jesuit mission in East Timor.

For me, this pilgrimage was a deeply moving experience. Soibada, the first location where Jesuits began their mission in East Timor, is now a national sanctuary known as Nain-Feto Ai-Tara. Since childhood, I had heard about Soibada as a place of both exceptional education and spiritual significance, particularly as the site where Mary, Mother Ai-Tara, appeared. I had always yearned to visit this sacred place, and despite the challenges posed by the weather and rough terrain, my desire to experience Soibada was unwavering. The pilgrimage provided an opportunity to immerse myself in the rich history and spiritual legacy of the Jesuits.

As we walked the stations and reflected on the life of St. Ignatius, I gained a deeper understanding of his journey and mission. Although I have worked at CSIL for six years, this pilgrimage allowed me to connect more profoundly with the life and teachings of St. Ignatius. Visiting the National Sanctuary offered me a peaceful space to pray and reflect, strengthening my spiritual connection with Mary, Mother Ai-Tara.

I am immensely grateful for the presence of the Society of Jesus in East Timor, especially through CSIL, which has been instrumental in nurturing my spiritual growth as a Catholic and a Timorese. This pilgrimage was a significant part of my journey, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this vibrant community.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God).

By: Mariana da Costa (CSIL teacher)