(The 7th Graduation of ISJB)
Photo: Graduation of the La Storta class at Loyola Multifunction Hall in Kasait, Liquiça.
The recent graduation of Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB) students was filled with much gratitude and happiness. A family of 97 graduands gathered on Saturday, 24 January 2026, at the Loyola Multifunction Hall, located next to ISJB in Kasait, Liquiça. Families witnessed with joy the completion of the successful academic journey of their daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Following the institution’s tradition—where every graduating batch bears a unique name—this 7th graduation class of ISJB carries the name La Storta. The name recalls a profound moment in Jesuit history when Saint Ignatius of Loyola, while in prayer, experienced Christ calling him to walk with Him and to serve Him in His mission. In the Jesuit tradition, La Storta symbolizes a life rooted in discernment, companionship with Christ, and a generous readiness to be sent wherever the needs of the world are greatest.
Photo: Graduands of the La Storta class listen to a speech.
In St. Ignatius’s autobiography, two short lines are offered to describe what some would say was the culmination of Ignatius’ spiritual journey:
“One day, a few miles before reaching Rome, he was at prayer in a church and experienced such a change in his soul and saw so clearly that God the Father had placed him with Christ the Son that he would not dare to doubt it. God the Father had placed him with his Son.” (Au 96).
(Read more about “La Storta.”).
As graduates of a Jesuit university, these young men and women are called to live the spirit of La Storta beyond their graduation day. Thus, the graduation theme, “A fire that kindles other fires,” expresses the heart of Jesuit education. Formation at ISJB is not only about academic achievement or personal success but also about nurturing an inner fire—a faith centered on Christ, a commitment to justice, and a spirit of service. This fire is meant to be shared, inspiring others and bringing light, hope, and responsibility to society.
Photo: Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, delivering his speech.
On graduation day, Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, Regional Superior of the Jesuits of the East Timor Region, emphasized:
“This is the meaning of La Storta, which is very relevant to you graduates. During this time, you have learned, received knowledge, and received formation to shape your character in this Institute. Our hope is that you become persons for others. In today’s world, where many people face difficulties in life, if you are ready to receive the spirit of La Storta, you must strive to find out who truly needs your wisdom and depth so that you may labour with them to transform their lives. You must be willing to suffer with those who suffer, with the objective of transforming their living conditions.”
Let us pray for every graduand to keep alive their spirit as educators, following the principles of Ignatian spirituality they have learned and practiced throughout their journey at ISJB.
Written by:
Iriana Soares, ETR Communications Officer