St Xavier's Principal calls upon Jesuit alumni to become partners

Kolkata, July 30 -- Rev. Dr Dominic Savio, SJ, Principal of St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata, has called upon Jesuit alumni across the world to become active partners in the Jesuit mission, saying the challenges of the modern world require a shared commitment.

Addressing the XI International Congress of the World Jesuit Alumni Association (WUJA) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, on Thursday, Fr Savio spoke on "Alumni Governance & Collaboration Framework - Reclaiming the Ignatian Mission in a World of Disconnection." He urged Jesuits, educational institutions and alumni to work together as "men and women for and with others".

Speaking before a global gathering of educators, leaders and alumni representatives, Fr Savio said issues such as digital isolation, social fragmentation, economic inequality and climate change demand an unprecedented level of collective responsibility.

"The future of the Jesuit mission cannot be carried by Jesuits alone.

The mission must become a shared mission embraced by alumni, educators, students and all who have been touched by the Ignatian tradition," he said, echoing the words of Superior General Fr Arturo Sosa, SJ.

Fr Savio, who is also President of the St. Xavier's College (Calcutta) Alumni Association and Secretary of the Jesuit Higher Education Association South Asia (JHEASA), called for a shift in alumni engagement from nostalgia and fundraising towards mission-centred governance and active participation in decision-making and strategic action.

He highlighted the role alumni networks can play in areas such as disaster relief, educational scholarships, women's empowerment, blood donation drives, environmental stewardship and mentoring programmes. He also stressed the need for continuous formation through retreats, ethics workshops and professional reflection groups to ensure Ignatian values continue to guide alumni throughout their careers.

Representatives from Jesuit Higher Education Alumni Associations, including the St. Xavier's College (Calcutta) Alumni Association, formed the largest single contingent at the Yogyakarta congress, reaffirming their commitment to reconciliation, peace and justice.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.