My time at the Jesuit Institute has come to an end. I was missioned here by my religious superior two years ago, and now I have been sent to study Theology at Hekima College in Nairobi, Kenya. This is all part of my vocation and formation as a Jesuit.

As we celebrate the Ascension of the Lord, I would like to reflect on my time at the Institute and the various graces that God has given me. I feel somewhat like the disciples, staring up at the clouds, wondering about all that has happened, wondering about all that is to come.

The grace that seems to summarise all of the gifts received in this time is “finding my voice.” It has felt like the Lord has been looking at me and gently inviting me, “let me hear your voice” (Song of Songs 2:14).

I have found my voice through video production—a new skill I learned at the Institute. I have helped plan, record, edit, and publish several video projects, some of which are prayerful and some of which are educational. It has been an opportunity to engage with people no matter where they are through the medium of video.

I have found my voice through writing. I have participated in the weekly bulletins and the daily reflections. This has helped me consider how to write in a way that helps others to pray and think. Thank you for putting up with my style, and thank you for your feedback.

I have found my voice through spiritual accompaniment. This has been one of my greatest joys at the Institute. I have accompanied people on retreats and journeyed with others in ongoing spiritual accompaniment relationships. This has taught me the gift of being a listening presence. The Spiritual Accompaniment Training offered by the Institute has helped me hone my skills in this area.

I have found my voice through developing friendships and relationships. I have learnt that sometimes we can minister to people by simply sitting with them and sharing a meal. I have witnessed the power of hospitality, kindness, and presence.

I have found my voice through collaboration. The Institute works as a team. It is not all about me, myself, and I. I have had the opportunity to work with the other team members as well as our volunteers and friends. We work together regardless of particular religious affiliation. We are united by a common love of Jesus and his Kingdom.

I am leaving the Institute with a grateful heart. I have learnt so much and grown in so many areas, not without challenge. All of these experiences and relationships have helped me to find and refine my voice.

As we stand and watch Jesus ascend into the clouds, we may ask ourselves, “How has our encounter with the Lord helped us to find our own voices? How can we respond to the invitation from God to let him and others hear our voices?”