A Thank You to the Jesuits

Now around two years ago I wrote a piece for this newspaper titled “To Those Jesuits to Whom this Applies” which focused, for the most part, on things I had seen in the BC Jesuit community which disturbed me. I think to call this article a palinode wouldn’t be as correct as to say that this is the other side of the coin which often goes unsaid, not least in many Catholic circles.

I certainly did not know this side when I first came to BC; I had it on trusty testimony that nearly every member of the Society of Jesus was a glass-chewing communist. While jolly old Karl has indeed reared his Teutonic head on more than one occasion during homilies here, I’d like to take this article to thank, to profoundly thank, the Jesuits who have so helped me over the course of my four years here.

I’d like to thank Fr. Matt Monnig, who has been my spiritual director since freshman year and whose wisdom and guidance is responsible for my peace of mind, strengthening of faith, and current vocational trajectory.

Fr. Van Alstyne, for his model of holiness, advice, and foundation of the Sons of St. Patrick.

Fr. McNellis, for his constant guidance of Sons, which has been such a help to my navigation of college both in friendships and spiritual life.

Fr. Juan Carlos, whose acquaintance has, since the beginning, been a great blessing in very many ways.

Fr. Magree, for wonderful homilies and John Paul-esque hiking trip, which remains a highlight of my time here.

Fr. Tacelli, for his clear (Italian-American) common sense which has been so useful for the stability of my life.

Fr. Shea, for his devotion which has helped me grow in my own devotion to Our Lady, especially Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Fr. Pederit, who went to every length to provide the Sacraments and expose the Eucharist for Adoration.

Certainly, this list of Jesuits and these reasons for thanks are not at all exhaustive, and, as such, although the Torch limits articles to 750 words, I hope that every Jesuit priest and brother knows just how grateful I am for his sacrifice.

Here in the Society of Jesus I have seen proven true last week’s Gospel: “Unless a grain of wheat falls upon the ground and dies, it remains only itself, but if it dies, it bears much fruit” (John 12:24).

I have seen much fruit come from the death-to-self practiced daily by the Jesuits I know. I have seen conversions, consolations, and encouragement, clear actions of the Holy Spirit through true imitators of Christ.

So thank you, true sons of Ignatius, for everything you have and will do. Thank you for following Christ in laying down your lives for your friends. You will always be in my prayers, and please keep me in yours.