Welcome to the Inaciana Family!
The Society of Jesuits in Timor-Leste extends heartfelt congratulations to the youth of MAG+S Timor-Leste Batch-09 for completing their formation. They are warmly welcomed into the Ignatian Family and assured of prayers as they continue their journey of faith and self-discovery. With over 60% of Timor-Leste’s population consisting of youth and more than 90% identified as Catholics, it is crucial to accompany young people in their spiritual journey. At this stage of self-discovery, programs like MAG+S provide guidance, helping young people deepen their faith and commit to lives of purpose and service.
The MAG+S Community reflects the Jesuits’ commitment to the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAP), particularly UAP #3 – Journeying with Youth. This preference calls for accompanying young people in their journey of faith and discernment, helping them face their hopes and challenges with courage and trust in God. Pope Francis says, that in the digital age, young people encounter new possibilities and challenges. The mission is to guide them toward a deeper encounter with God and inspire them to live with faith and purpose.
MAG+S, which stands for Magis Service, takes inspiration from the Ignatian concept of Magis, meaning “more” or “better.” It calls participants to “do more for God” and “give the best” in all aspects of their lives. Established in 2016, the program has since guided more than 400 young people, empowering them to live out Ignatian values and embrace the call to “find God in all things.” Batch-09 began their transformative journey in March and completed it in October, marking seven months of reflection, growth, and community.
During their formation, participants learned various Ignatian prayer practices, such as the consciousness examen, meditation, contemplation, and journaling. These practices allowed them to cultivate a closer relationship with God and discern His presence in their lives. Weekly sharing circles provided spaces for reflection and connection, fostering mutual support and understanding. Over 12 Magis meetings, they explored topics including the call of Christ, knowing oneself, discernment, Ignatian leadership, foundational principles of Ignatian spirituality, and many more.
As their formation drew to a close, participants engaged in an immersion experience, living with rural families and undertaking a pilgrimage. These experiences taught them to find God in the simplicity of life and the beauty of relationships. The program concluded with a three-day retreat at Monserat, a time of profound reflection on the blessings received and the growth achieved throughout their journey. It was a moment to give thanks for God’s grace and prepare for the path ahead.
As members of Batch-09 join the growing MAG+S family, they carry forward the values of love, faith, and service embraced during their formation. They embody the spirit of Magis—doing more, being better, and giving their best for God and others. Together, let us build a future rooted in hope, grounded in Christ’s love, and dedicated to the Ignatian tradition. We thank God for their commitment and look forward to witnessing their continued growth and impact.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam – For the Greater Glory of God!
By: Iriana Soares & Lucrecia (Source: Mag+ser Timor-Leste and UAP)