Fr. Provincial’s Message

Dear Companions,
The sudden news of Pope Francis’ death must have shocked and shattered you as it did to many people across the globe. But with the passage of time, I am sure, you have slowly acquiesced to God’s will for him and the Church. In paying tribute to Pope Francis, Father General stressed that he was as a “man of God” and his “approach to people and situation in each context in which he lived is only grasped in its depth from the recognition of his spiritual experience.”
Undoubtedly, Pope Francis was a person of spiritual depth. He had an unconditional love for Jesus and courageous commitment to follow him. He was aware of his limitations and weaknesses. He recognized them with serenity. His serenity, in the midst of storms and tempests that he had to endure, is awe-inspiring. Despite difficulties, he remained committed to constant and courageous proclamation of the Joy of the Gospel. Such serenity cannot be manufactured. It can only be acquired as the result of a cultivated familiarity with God. He was indeed a “man of God.”
Pope Francis has ushered in a new way of being Pope. His words, works, and witness have been, and will continue to be, pillars of faith, beacons of hope and wellsprings of love for millions, worldwide. Beyond the narrow confines of creed, class, colour and culture, he has drawn loud applause and found universal appeal. It was his sheer simplicity after the example of Jesus, poor and humble, that distinguished Pope Francis from others.
We can receive refreshing insights and rousing inspiration from his life-mission. His insight and foresight, hopes and dreams, visions and missions, are relevant for all of us, today. May Pope Francis continue to be a guiding light for all who are seeking wholeness and holiness!

James Arjen Tete, S.J.
Provincial