NEWS

Reflections on the Spirit-Led Assembly of the Jesuits in Timor-Leste – together with Laity, and the collaborators.

In a profound assembly spanning three transformative days (from 9 to 11 May, 2024) in Dili, the Jesuits of the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste, joined by lay collaborators and partners, discussed the need for a renewal of the existing Apostolic Plan of the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste.  It was blessing for all the participants to feel the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit guiding us toward a deeper understanding and reflection of God’s dreams for the people of Timor-Leste through the apostolic works of the Jesuits, partners and lay collaborators. Our hearts overflowed with gratitude for this divine encounter, as we collectively sought to discern the path illuminated by God’s love and grace.

Throughout the assembly, amidst heartfelt prayers and communal discernment, we were reminded of the pressing needs of our beloved Timorese community. It became evident that while our people cherish their rich cultural heritage, there exists a profound yearning to anchor their lives in the unwavering faith of Jesus Christ. It is with this conviction that we, as stewards of God’s message, are called to lead our brethren towards a profound encounter with Christ, placing Him at the very center of our    existence   and endeavors.

As we engaged in spirited conversations and shared our insights, a clear consensus emerged—a collective desire to nurture and deepen the faith of the Timorese people, guiding them to experience the fulfillment found in living out God’s dream for them. We recognized the inherent challenges faced by our community, and we are steadfast in our commitment to walk alongside our brothers and sisters, offering them the guidance and support they need to flourish in their faith journey.

According to the Jesuit’s Apostolic Priorities for East Timor Region; service of faith through Ignatian Spirituality, promotion of human dignity and justice through education, formation, and capacity building, fostering reconciliation through collaboration. To assist the local church in instituting Christian leadership programs for young seminarians and religious. To support networks of like-minded institutions united in popularizing care for environment agenda, and to popularize the care in all our institutions and houses in the Region. To promote active collaboration of our Jesuit ministries and communities with the local government and the local church.

Driven by the fruits of the Holy Spirit and fueled by our unwavering dedication to our Vision and Mission for the East Timor Region, we felt the call to continue to strengthened the existing apostolic plans in the life of the people we serve, and moreover we felt the call to embark on this journey with renewed vigor and purpose. With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we are confident that our endeavors will bear abundant fruit, enriching the lives of all those whom we serve.

Father Philip Heng, SJ, one of the members of the Core Committee shared his observations about how the participants felt the presence of the Holy Spirit during the discussions and presentations, “The Assembly was based on trusting the Holy Spirit, to lead, to guide, and to inspire and to participate during the whole assembly. The fruits and the outcomes of the Assembly reveal in many ways GOD’s will to the Jesuits of Timor Region.

In addition, he explained, “We are using a method that was used by the Jesuits during the General Congregation 36, and so this is a new method of Assembly which is different from all of the previous methods that have been used. This is the first time the general results as I can see have been very positive and fruitful.” He continued “in order for this approach to work, we focused on everyone’s participation with the spirits of the Spiritual Exercises of ­St. Ignatius.”

Fr. Philip Heng. SJ, gave thanks to God for the assembly’s experiences, as this was the first time this approach had been used in the Timor Region, and for the overall fruits, which left all of the participants feeling extremely positive, relaxed, and inspired by the Apostolic Priorities of the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste.

In closing, let us carry forth the spirit of unity and love that permeated our assembly, ever mindful of our sacred duty to shepherd God’s flock with compassion and wisdom that upholds the value of faith, reconciliation and collaboration. Together, let us continue to uphold the aspirations of the Timorese people to be people of God, as we strive to realize God’s dream for them.

Blessings and Gratitude, AMDG!

By: Iriana Soares