Mangalore Jesuits celebrate 400th canonisation anniversay of Ignatius and Francis Xavier

On : 2022-03-14

Fr Vincent Pinto SJ from St Aloysius College Community in his homily on the occasion of the 400^th anniversary of the canonisation of St Ignatius of Loyola and St Francis Xavier, called upon Jesuits to serve one master only and to gather up treasures in heaven just as the two saints did.

The Jesuits of Mangalore came together at Fathima Retreat House for the holy Eucharist and a fellowship meal on the occasion on Saturday, March 12, 2022.

Fr Pinto said: “While the westerners would say that Ignatius had a conversion experience during his convalescence in the hospitals, we in India would call it enlightenment, just as Buddha and Mahaveera had their enlightenment. Similarly, St Francis Xavier had his enlightenment in Paris in the company of Ignatius. He was ambitious, but he changed his master from the worldly master to the heavenly master and began serving only him.”

Fr Pinto also added that through the letters written by Francis to Ignatius it was clear that both longed to see each other, but it could not happen. However, both were united in Christ. “Francis went from place to place preaching the good news, because he was restless for Christ,” he said.

After the holy Eucharist, a fellowship meal was arranged for all. Rector of SAC, Fr Melwin Pinto SJ greeted the Jesuits with his message. “May both these great saints lead us to serve one master and gather up treasures in heaven,” he said.

Later, senior Jesuit from FRH, Fr Rossie Rego engaged the gathering with his action songs.

Jesuits from Asha Kiran, SAC community and Gonzaga Niva, Beeri, were present.