After the one-thousandth person asked me that dreaded question, and I gave my stumbling, idiotic response for the one-thousandth time, I decided I needed a better story. No more jabbering on about feeling some vague “call,” no more mentioning words like “magis” and “service.” Now, when people ask me why I entered the Society of Jesus, why I am a vowed religious, why I am studying to become a priest, I answer, “I lost a bet.”
It elicits a generous laugh. It breaks the ice. …

With Companions
 
1. Where are you currently missioned and how’s it going?
My Provincial has missioned me to philosophy studies at St Louis University. Philosophy studies—or ‘first studies’—is the second stage of formation in the Jesuits following two years in the Novitiate. I am a student again. The majority of my time is spent reading books and writing papers. I do a lot of pondering. And while the focus of my mission is on my intellectual and spiritual formation, I am keenly aware that my education is not self-serving. Rather, I study …

A Blessing
 
1. Where are you currently missioned and how’s it going?
In August, following vows, I was missioned to study philosophy at the University of Toronto (Regis College) in Canada. I am currently starting my second semester and I am having a great time. It is wonderful to be back in the classroom; though philosophy can seem a bit daunting at times, I really enjoy the studies.
2. When was the first time you thought about being a Jesuit?
I thought about being a Jesuit shortly after I decided I wanted to be …

~ a few questions for Fr. Dave Anderson, SJ
1. What do you do as the chaplain to the men’s basketball team at Seattle University?
During the season (Nov-March), I check in on the team during some of the practices during the week and sit on the bench during both home and away games. I provide presence and support to both players and coaches during the year. Sometimes a player may feel more comfortable talking with me rather than a coach. Also, our coaches are new this year so I am helping …

~ Philip Sutherland, SJ on Why He’s a Jesuit
When I was discerning the priesthood as a young man in middle school and high school, I was attracted to the Jesuits because they did not live their entire lives as parish priests; they ran schools, wrote books, worked in parishes, served in soup kitchens, taught in classrooms, published magazines and lectured in universities. I found that way of life exciting and potentially fulfilling.
Later, as I attended Gonzaga University, I was struck that I was not so much attraced to what …