Feast of St Ignatius Loyola celebrated at XISS

Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), Ranchi commemorated the feast of St Ignatius Loyola in its campus on 30 July. This year was celebrated as the Ignation Year in honour of the 500th anniversary of Ignatius’ conversion which is celebrated every year on July 31.

Ignatius of Loyola, SJ, venerated as St Ignatius of Loyola, founded the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. The Ignation spirituality promotes our human bodies as a source of wisdom, discernment, and revelation and views the world as our space to serve with grace and respect.

Dr Pradeep Kerketta SJ, Assistant Director, XISS, welcomed the audience and spoke about the institute's goal to promote four societal themes on this auspicious day. He said that this year the celebrations have been themed accordingly to promote Ignatius Spirituality, which shows the way to God through spiritual exercises and discernment. Second, to uplift the poor and marginalised and walk with the outcastes of the world, those whose dignities have been violated in a mission of reconciliation and justice. Third, to recognise the talent and potential of the youth and accompany them in the creation of a hope-filled future. And fourth, to collaborate in the care of our common home. These themes are for keeping us enabled throughput to work for the society at large and bring in peace and harmony.

The feast commenced with an entrance hymn, a Gloria dance, and a Bible procession. The holy event was marked by a flag hosting ceremony of St Ignatius of Loyola by Dr Pradeep Kerketta SJ and other celebrants, followed by ‘Arti’ dance, band performance and cultural programmes. The mass was led in prayer by Dr Pradeep Kerketta SJ along with Fr Xavier Soreng SJ, Fr Claber Minj SJ and Fr Samir Xavier Bhawnra SJ. This was followed by procession of XISS Model, fruits, plants and books for offertory, cake cutting ceremony and blessings from dignitaries.