Celebrando a los hermanos jesuitas
Society of Jesus Welcomes 7 New Brothers
The Society of Jesus in the United States, Canada and Haiti welcomed 34 new Jesuit novices in 2021 at novitiates in California, Louisiana, Minnesota, New York, Quebec and Haiti. They have taken the initial step on their journey toward Jesuit priesthood or brotherhood, known as “Jesuit formation,” which can take a total of eight to 12 years.
Hermanos de toda la Conferencia
In these first two years as novices, the men will learn what it means to live in community, adopt the rhythm of daily prayer and deepen their understanding of God’s call to the Society. They have selflessly devoted their lives to the service of the marginalized, to the church, to God and to each other.
St. Ignatius of Loyola, who co-founded the Society in 1540, first defined the elements of Jesuit formation in his Jesuit Constitutions. Jesuit novices still follow this plan today — adapted to the modern world.
“Resisted call. Brokenhearted. Rebuilt by Jesus,” wrote Jeff Sullivan, SJ.
“Come spread rumors of new life!” said Garrett Gundlach, SJ.
And Daniel Gustafson, SJ: “Politics? Maybe not. Jesuits? Thank God.”
And we thank God for the lives and vocations of these 25 men from Canada, the United States and Haiti who have said yes to their Catholic faith, yes to the Society of Jesus and yes to the call to ordained priesthood. Their witness is a sign of joyful hope. Their witness is an invitation to all of us to put our faith into action in service to God and our sisters and brothers everywhere.
The formation process that leads up to Jesuit priestly ordination is a long one, typically lasting 10-12 years and including intensive stages of study, ministry, accompaniment of those on the margins of society, prayer and more — all while living in Jesuit community. This brochure is just a snapshot into the lives of these men throughout their life in the Society of Jesus, capturing some highlights from their journeys and providing a glimpse of their unique personalities. As you learn about them, please keep them in your hearts and in your prayers.
