As a Jesuit Novice, one of the activities we would do during the months of October and November would be to leave the confines of our novitiate so as to beg from the family and friends we visit. On these begging days—as we called it—we would bring with us our PJAA envelopes, along with our heartfelt smiles and a spirit of dependence on God’s providence. Begging days were, after all, an exercise in trusting that God continues to provide for our needs.

      Several years later, as a Jesuit Scholastic, I still look back on those begging days and realize how grateful I am for all the support I have been given—support from countless people, named and unnamed, who continue to assist me in preparing myself for the greater service of others.

      Today, through the PJAA, Jesuits like myself are supported in our studies—studies that allow us to be more effective in the different ministries that we are and we will be assigned to. The PJAA also helps provide for the special health needs of some Jesuits—men who have spent entire lives serving God’s people.

      As a Xavier alumnus, I cannot help but also look back upon the Jesuits who have helped in my formation during my elementary and high school years. These men had always made themselves available to others. They would be there not only to console, but also inspire. I’ve always wondered what gave them such passion and such energy to be so dedicated to the work that they do. Now, as a member of the Jesuit community in Xavier, I realize, in my own small way, that such dedication continues to come from a heartfelt experience of their love for God and their trust that God always takes care of them and those they care for. Through many stories shared, I see how God continues to allow other people to enter into one’s life, enriching it, giving it more meaning.

      It is this memory of such selfless men that allows me to understand a little better how one can trust that God does take care of His people. It is this same trust that continues to grow in me: that through others, I continue to experience God’s kindness and generosity; that through others, I am also able to appreciate better how God dwells in each one of us.

The Philippine Jesuit Aid Association (PJAA), which supports the needs of our brothers in their Jesuit formation, is supported annually by the Xavier Community.

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