Dreaming with God, Seeking His Will, Living Transformed
Fr. José Minaku, SJ's Full Message for the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola 2026 [HERE]
As we mark the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola on 31 July, the President of JCAM, Fr. José Minaku, SJ, has called on Jesuits, collaborators, and partners in mission to renew their commitment to God's call by following the example of the founder of the Society of Jesus.
Addressing "Brothers and Sisters, Companions in the Lord and Partners in the Lord's mission," Fr. Minaku described July as a month filled with signs of God's faithfulness across the Conference.
Quoting Psalm 126:3, "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy," he reflected on several milestones that marked the month. Across Africa and Madagascar, Jesuit communities celebrated priestly ordinations and the First Vows of young Jesuits, joyful reminders that God continues to call generous men to serve His people.
He also highlighted the successful launch of the Collaborative Theology Initiative at Hekima University College and the peaceful transition of leadership in the Central Africa Province (ACE), noting that these moments demonstrate how the Society of Jesus is continually renewed through generous lives dedicated to God's mission.
Drawing on an African proverb, "When the roots are well watered, the tree does not fear the dry season," Fr. Minaku in his message reminded all that strong spiritual foundations sustain the mission of the Society even amid changing circumstances.
Reflecting on the life of St. Ignatius, he invited the Conference to consider three qualities that remain especially relevant for Africa today.
First, Ignatius was a dreamer whose encounter with Christ inspired him to imagine a different future. Likewise, Fr. Minaku encouraged Jesuits and their partners to believe that a more just, reconciled, and hopeful Africa is possible, recognising that every apostolic work begins with the courage to dream with God.
Second, Ignatius was a seeker of God. His constant question, "Lord, what do You desire?" continues to define the Ignatian path of discernment. In a continent shaped by many competing voices and challenges, Fr. Minaku urged all who share in the Jesuit mission to seek God in all things and allow Him to guide their decisions.
Finally, he reflected on Ignatius as a transformed man. While the young Ignatius sought earthly glory, his greatest victory became one of interior conversion.
Through God's grace, he was transformed into a humble companion of Jesus, reminding us that authentic social transformation always begins with the conversion of the human heart.
Concluding his message, Fr. Minaku invited the entire JCAM family to make this their prayer on the Feast of St. Ignatius:
"May we continue to dream with God, seek Him faithfully, and allow Him to transform us day by day. Then the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar will remain a living sign of hope, serving the Church and our continent, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam."
As the Conference celebrates the feast of its founder, JCAM joins Jesuits and companions around the world in giving thanks for the gift of St. Ignatius of Loyola and praying for the grace to continue his mission of faith, justice, reconciliation, and hope throughout Africa and Madagascar.
