SHOWING THE WAY TO GOD
Jesuit tertian instructors from around the world recently gathered in Rome for a five-day international meeting organised by Fr Mark Ravizza SJ, General Counsellor for Formation. Australian Jesuits, Fr Steve Curtin SJ and Fr Brian McCoy SJ (both former Australian Provincials), attended the meeting between 31 August to 4 September. It provided an opportunity for those responsible for accompanying Jesuits during tertianship to share experiences, reflect on current challenges and learn from one another.
“The gathering was exceptionally well planned and facilitated by Fr Ravizza,” said Fr Steve. Participants appreciated the opportunity to discuss the content of their formation programs and to exchange insights about the questions and challenges that younger Jesuits bring to tertianship today.
The tertian instructors from the Jesuit Conference of Asia Pacific region with Father General, Fr Arturo Sosa SJ (3rd from left). Fr Steve Curtin SJ (1st from right) and Fr Brian McCoy SJ (3rd from right). Photo courtesy of Fr Steve Curtin SJ.
Superior General Fr Arturo Sosa SJ attended both the opening and closing sessions of the meeting. On those occasions, he invited the instructors to reflect on the period between a Jesuit’s completion of formal studies and his entry into tertianship. Fr General raised questions about whether younger Jesuits receive sufficient support during these early years of full-time ministry, noting that this stage of formation should ideally last no more than three to five years. He encouraged reflection on how the Society can ensure this period is both life-giving and affirming of a Jesuit’s vocation.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to support Jesuits in formation and to strengthen the accompaniment offered during the important years leading to tertianship. The gathering also provided a valuable opportunity for instructors from different regions to build connections and deepen collaboration across the global Society of Jesus.
The tertian instructors with Father General in the General Curia garden. Photo courtesy of Fr Steve Curtin SJ.