NEWS

Not the Same, But Not Feeling Different Either: A Transformation Journey of Senorina Soares at ISJB

Since receiving a scholarship opportunity from the Government of Timor-Leste Program, Senorina did not expect her life to experience many positive transformations.

In 2021, a time when the whole world was traumatized and struggled to carry out activities due to the Covid-19 virus, which spread non-stop since the beginning of 2020, Senorina was also affected in her studies at the university because there was no vaccination card, which was required to access the capital, Dili, and other places. However, God, who is full of providence, always finds a way for His people.

“When I got the information that I passed and received a scholarship from FDCH (Fundo Desenvolvimento Capital Humano), I was very happy but also doubtful because my name was included in the list of new students at ISJB, a school I had never heard of. My colleagues and I talked to each other, and we thought this school was in Dili, and we mentioned São Pedro University, not São João de Brito Institute (ISJB).” With a lack of knowledge about ISJB and the COVID-19 situation, Senorina’s expectations of continuing her studies started to decrease at that time. After communicating with her family and receiving support from FDCH, she hoped to continue her studies in October 2021, although other students had already started school a few months earlier.

As Senorina explained, on the first day she set foot in ISJB, she immediately felt at home and welcomed by the place. Given her non-Catholic religious background, how could she feel this at ISJB? “ISJB felt like home from the moment I entered, and I believe it’s because of the good people here. I am happy because the religious tolerance here is very strong, unlike when I was in high school in Baucau. The good people, starting from fellow students, staff, and lecturers, made me feel at home. Everyone always takes care of each other not only during the class session, but we remind each other to have respect for one another, and we show our love and support.” Senorina declared.

As a Jesuit institution, ISJB practices Ignatian spirituality to help students, staff, and teachers. Senorina, a Muslim studying at ISJB, did not see this as a barrier for her. She also always participates in religious activities, such as the annual retreat for students, regular Mass every Friday, and other occasional recollections.

“I think this retreat is necessary for everyone because it has helped me understand myself and brought me closer to God. I have felt many benefits from the retreat, starting with the first practice in Maubara, Liquiça. I have become a more patient and understanding person. The retreat is not only for Catholics; we Muslims also need it, and it is for everyone.”

Senorina felt that many transformations had happened to her due to the environment and activities created by ISJB. “ISJB became a place that helped me not only academically but also develop my spirituality as a Muslim. Even though I am the only one here whose religion is different from the rest, I do not feel different because their tolerance is very strong.” She also explained that “attending the retreat is a mandatory because it is integral part of the study program at ISJB. However, with her background as a Muslim, she doesn’t find if this is the reason for her to participate in the retreat. “I’ve always chosen to attend because I feel it transforms me. “I feel that the retreats helped me become a better and more positive human being. But in 2023, I couldn’t participate due to my health condition.”

Senorina finished her studies at ISJB last year, and this January, she will graduate with her fellow classmates. We are very happy that the spiritual activities at ISJB have not only helped Catholics but have transformed Senorina, who is a Muslim.

“Although I faced some challenges in 2023, such as losing my mother, it was hard to accept the death of my mother, but being with ISJB I was able to overcome problems and challenges calmly and patiently,” Senorina said.

We pray for Senorina that she will continue to seek God in her life and help her community to become positive individuals who benefit others. ISJB has helped Senorina, not only academically but also personally and spiritually.

By: Iriana Soares (ETR Communications Officer) II Source: Senorina Soares and ISJB