Fr. Provincial’s Message

Dear Companions,
Gathering fruits and recognizing graces at the workshop held in Dhyan Ashram in October 2024, we identified growth and expansion of Bangladesh Mission, Santal Mission, Educational Institutions (urban and rural) as major theme of our consolation. We were also amazed revisiting our rich history and legacy of the Bengal Mission and thanked God for the Jesuit stalwarts of the province. Furthermore, we recognized the importance currently being given to vocation promotion and formation, good leadership, team work and transparency, freedom and happiness in the synodal province and many other littlepositive changes taking place in the province as other sources of consolations.
Simultaneously, we also observed lack of focus in Santal Education with reference to English Medium School for Santals, lack of spiritual depth and fraternity among us, lack of walk the talk, deficiency of quality vocation to get men of competence and confidence, mediocrity and lack of pioneering spirit as some of the concerns and desolations. Some said that those who have authority are tempted to work in their own interests instead of those of God. It was expressed that senior members are cared for. However, more could be done for them.
Amidst these consolations, concerns and desolations, we sense that the divine presence is still persisting in the province. God is not disappointed with us. We are being called to shed our complacency, mediocrity and lethargy, and strive for Magis in our sharing and caring for others. Let us not be mere “officials” or “functionaries” in mission but truly “friends in the Lord.” Let us strengthen our companionship nurtured and nourished by our love for God and God’s people to become God’s stewards in the works entrusted to us.
I am sure the Province Guidelines, drawn from various sources of the Society and best practices in the provinces, have reached your hands. Kindly read the handy ready reckoner and familiarize yourself about your roles, responsibilities and duties to make a difference in our life-mission. The same procedure is to be followed in all the communities and for all the different works of the province. Hence, the members of the province and each community should know clearly the actual roles of local Superiors, Directors of Works, Ministers, Treasurers and Commission Coordinators.

James Arjen Tete, S.J.
Provincial