Society
Of The Divine Word

After yesterday’s intense discussions, collaborative efforts, and the meticulous drafting of the working paper, today, the Capitulars took a much-needed respite to focus on reflection and spiritual preparation. This vital day was dedicated to readying the Capitulars for the crucial elections unfolding on July 4-7. What better way to set the tone than with profound insights from Father Arturo Sosa, the Superior General of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).

Father Sosa captivated the Chapter participants with his profound reflections on leadership in consecrated life, emphasizing that authentic leadership means “to be led” by God rather than following one’s plans or strategies. He articulated that leadership within a religious context diverges significantly from secular leadership in politics or business, highlighting a focus on being guided by God’s will. This concept was vividly brought to life through biblical references, particularly the relationship between Jesus and Peter. Sosa underscored that Peter’s leadership was anchored in his love for Jesus and divine revelation.

The Jesuit General Superior highlighted the essential aspects of mission and discernment in religious leadership, stressing the importance of obedience and humility. He explained that decision-making processes should involve consultation and discernment, aiming to align with God’s will rather than human preferences or power dynamics. The leadership council’s collective wisdom and diverse input are crucial for making well-rounded, spiritually guided decisions.

Drawing inspiration from Ignatius of Loyola, Sosa outlined the essential qualities for selecting a General Superior, a significant role for the Society of the Divine Word. He emphasized that the General Superior should have a profound spiritual life and a commitment to prayer, enabling him to be a conduit of divine grace for the entire Society, ensuring its mission is fulfilled. The new leader must also lead by example, demonstrating charity, balancing righteousness with gentleness, and possessing the magnanimity and fortitude to undertake significant tasks and face challenging situations, even at personal risk.

Furthermore, the General Superior should possess great understanding and judgment in intellectual and spiritual matters, accompanied by prudence and the ability to discern various spirits. Vigilance and perseverance are also crucial, as the leader must be diligent in initiating work and persistent in bringing it to completion. Sufficient physical health and maturity are necessary to carry out his responsibilities effectively, and he should have a good reputation and personal qualities that bestow moral authority.

Finally, the new Superior General must exhibit significant virtue, love for the Society, intellectual capacity, and the ability to work well with others. Sosa acknowledged the challenge of finding someone with all these qualities, emphasizing the importance of spiritual life, kindness, love for the institute, sufficient formation, and teamwork ability instead.

As the Capitulars move towards electing a new Superior General on July 4, they must approach this task with prayerful discernment, ensuring that their decision aligns with God’s will. The new leader should embody the virtues and qualities outlined by Ignatius. This is not just a suggestion, but a necessity for the leader to guide the Society with humility, obedience, and a deep sense of mission. By adhering to these principles, the Capitulars can choose a leader who will faithfully serve and lead the Society.

Reflecting on Father Sosa’s invaluable insights, the Capitulars spent the rest of the day in personal prayer. In random groupings, they enumerated three qualities or skills they believed the next Superior General should possess. They then moved to their basic working groups to discuss the essential attributes a Councilor, who will work closely with the Superior General in guiding the Society, should have.

Today’s activities, marked by solemn reflection, set the stage for the upcoming elections of the new Superior General and his council. The Capitulars’ collective insights and discernment will undoubtedly shape their decision-making process. The election is imminent, and it is a process deeply rooted in faith and aligned with the higher purpose of directing the Society’s future over the next six years. The weight of this responsibility is significant, and the Capitulars’ role in this process is crucial.