Before becoming a team leader, I was a participant. In 2020, I embarked on a journey of spiritual growth by becoming involved with the Jesuit community as a participant in the Mag+s-TL program. Initially, I couldn’t complete my formation due to an internship in the municipality. However, in 2021, I resumed my formation and proudly completed it as a Mag+ser.
Friendship in prayer and silence was the key factor that led me to join this community. The bonds formed through shared moments of reflection and serenity were profound and inviting. My journey with Ignatian Spirituality brought a wave of new experiences that challenged me in unexpected ways. The most impactful aspects were the Spiritual Exercises, particularly the examen of conscience and journaling. These practices deepened my self-awareness and provided clarity about my life’s direction.
Becoming a MAG+S team leader and accompanying participants filled me with happiness and gratitude. Despite feeling hesitant to share my experiences openly, what truly touched me was the ability to enter and engage with others’ lives by listening with the heart, without judgment, during prayer.
Serving as a team leader brought significant changes to my spiritual and personal life. It strengthened my resolve and courage to share my experiences with God and encouraged me to open up to others through the fruits of spiritual conversations.
Leading was not without its challenges. Encouraging all members to open up, balancing my time between school, courses, and community commitments, and using social media to share information and support members were all hurdles I faced. Being present in the lives of members during their doubts and personal struggles was also a vital, yet demanding, aspect of leadership. As in the MAG+S Community, we call each other BEST (Belun 8Espirutal or Spiritual Friend). To me, BEST is someone who provides a space for free self-expression and mutual encouragement in prayer. This supportive environment fosters growth and connection.
Through my journey with the MAG+S community, I have grown in faith, leadership, and connection with others. It is my hope that this community continues to thrive and inspire others as it has inspired me.
My wish for MAG+S in the future, for both team leaders and all participants, is to dive deeper into the Spiritual Exercises, discover more beauty through Spiritual Conversations, and continue to be good companions. Many of our fellow Timorese are wandering, seeking themselves in the dark due to a lack of life direction and bearing the scars of the past. This light we share through love and continuous support is essential. Let’s embody the Magis spirit every day for the greater glory of God (AMDG).
By: Alicia Henrique Maia