ISJB Batch VI Graduation-Los Viajantes
After years of hard work, resilience, and dreams, the morning of January 17, 2025, finally brought a long-awaited moment of joy for the 122 graduates of Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB), known as Batch 6 or Los Viajantes (The Travelers). They came together in the Colégio Santo Inácio de Loyola (CSIL) coliseum to celebrate the inspiring theme from Saint Ignatius of Loyola: Ir aonde houver maiores necessidades—”Go where there is the greatest need.”
At 9:00 AM, as the hall filled with a blend of excitement, nostalgia, and gratitude, distinguished guests, including Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister, His Excellency Mr. José Alexandre Xanana Gusmão, joined the celebration. Alongside him were the Minister of Higher Education, the Regional Superior of the Jesuits, ISJB Rector, Vice Rectors, Deans, proud parents, generous donors, and special guests. They all gathered to honor the graduates’ achievements.
The Prime Minister set the tone for the occasion with a heartfelt speech. Turning to the graduates, he said, “Congratulations to all of you graduates. Now that you have graduated, if you work, it is not to earn money but to work as a mission. Always think that the best way to thank your parents for their effort is by working with all your heart. On behalf of the parents, I want to thank all the teachers for shaping new generations.” His words resonated deeply, serving as both encouragement and a reminder of the responsibility that comes with their success.
Fr. Erik John Guerilla, SJ, Jesuit Regional Superior, added his wisdom to the day. Building on past reflections, he addressed the graduates with sincerity: “My message follows my previous words shared in the judicium—Eloquentia, sapientia y cura personalis. Timor needs individuals who are intelligent in mind and heart, with great will not just for themselves but oriented toward others, to help others. I urge you to always remember that the teaching profession is a vocation; it is a mission. A mission to serve God’s people and not just a profession. Please do not stop improving yourselves.” His inspiring words called on the graduates to lead with purpose, compassion, and continual self-betterment.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the valedictory speech by Nilton, a graduate of the Bachelor of English program. Speaking with humility and emotion, he said, “I would like to thank God for all the graces we have received from Him. I would like to thank Instituto São João de Brito: our Rector, Vice Rectors, our former rector, Fr. Side, and our professors and staff. Thank you for all your knowledge and guidance. To all the donors and benefactors, to the workers who keep our classrooms clean, take care of our school gardens, families, and everyone who has supported us through this journey—thank you. Education has helped us become better versions of ourselves today than we were yesterday.” His heartfelt gratitude brought tears to many in the audience, reflecting the collective emotion of the day.
The ceremony also recognized graduating students who excelled in various fields, honoring their hard work and dedication. A special gesture by the Prime Minister added a personal touch to the occasion, as he presented each graduate and teacher with a flower bouquet, symbolizing their shared success and contributions.
As the celebration drew to a close, Fr. Isaias Caldas, SJ, Rector of ISJB, delivered a memorable message to the graduates: “May you be travelers who know how to think, always journeying in the direction of where there is the greatest need.” His words encapsulated the spirit of the event, urging the graduates to carry forward the values instilled in them by ISJB.
The joyous day concluded with a fellowship lunch, where graduates, guests, and their loved ones celebrated not just their achievements but the bright futures awaiting them.
By: Lucrecia (ETR Volunteer) II Source: ISJB