A Memorable Visit: Fr. Roberto Jaramillo’s Journey Through the Jesuit Madurai Province
A Memorable Visit: Fr. Roberto Jaramillo’s Journey Through the Jesuit Madurai Province – A Report. The visit of Fr. Roberto Jaramillo, Secretary for the Social Justice and Ecology Secretariat, Rome, to the Province from February 12 to 14 was an eventful and inspiring experience. His itinerary was meticulously planned by the Social Action Commission under the guidance of Fr. Provincial, ensuring a meaningful engagement with various initiatives and communities.
Day 1: February 12 – Engaging with Advocacy and Social Action
Fr. Roberto commenced his visit at LAAS (Legal Action Advocacy and Services), Madurai, in the morning, where he was briefed on its legal, research, and advocacy initiatives. Significant studies such as the Paliyar Tribal Research and Tamil Nadu Widows Research were highlighted, alongside the Nattai Kappom (Save the Nation) campaigns. Networking partners shared insights on LAAS’s collaborative efforts in promoting dignity and justice through mutual support.
Post lunch, he was warmly welcomed by the DACA (Doctor Ambedkar Cultural Academy) team, Madurai, followed by a brief visit to JAICARE and its various units, including the hostel for deserving girls, study centers, and self-help groups. A short presentation on DACA’s activities in the presence of staff made a lasting impression on him.
At 4:30 PM, IDEAS (Institute for Development, Education, Action and Studies) greeted Fr. Roberto with a traditional welcome, offering sandal paste, shawls, and a bouquet. Representatives from different units shared insights into their work, including the Dalit Women Federation, union formation for manual scavengers and unorganized Arunthathiyar workers, and the protection of Kal Ottars.
At 5:30 PM, a conclave of Jesuits engaged in social action within the Province was held at IDEAS. The gathering included external experts from the Social Action Commission and the Province Coordinators of the Dalit and Ecology Commissions. The session commenced with an overview of the Social Action Apostolate, presented by the Social Action Coordinator.
Following this, the directors of AMUTHU, DACA, GANSOVILLE, IDEAS, JRS, KALANGARAI, LAAS, and PEAK centres, presented detailed reports on their respective centers, outlining their origins, goals, target groups, key programs, achievements, and ongoing challenges. The. presentations provided a comprehensive perspective on the Province’s diverse and impactful. social action initiatives, highlighting the collective commitment to justice, empowerment, and sustainable development.
Day 2: February 13 – A Cultural and Historical Immersion Fr. Roberto embarked on a field visit to PEAK’s (People’s Education for Action in Kodaikanal) serving areas, where he was welcomed by the Paliyar tribals of Urimaikanal near Poolathur village in the Kodai Hills. The tribals greeted him with homemade garlands and drumbeats, setting the stage for a vibrant Pongal festival celebration with traditional dances. Immersed in the joyful atmosphere, Fr. Roberto even joined the tribals in dance.
Struck by the scenic beauty of Urimaikanal, he remarked on its resemblance to his hometown in Colombia. Learning about the struggles and legal battles fought by PEAK and its collaborators to establish concrete houses for the tribal community, he emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing this history with future generations.
The next stop was Sacred Heart College (SHC), Shembaganur, where he was captivated by the Chapels, Province Archives, Anglade Institute (Ecology Training Centre), Cemetery, and SHC Museum during a guided tour. The visit continued with a tea talk at Bodhi Zento (Jesuit Zen Centre) and a glimpse of St. Joseph’s Agri Farm, further enriching his experience.
Day 3: February 14 – Reflection, Engagement, and Inspiration
The final day of his visit began with Mass at Arrupe Bhavan in Beschi Illam, Dindigul, where he spent precious moments with senior Jesuits. A heartwarming conversation with his longtime friend, Fr. Devadoss Mudiyappasamy, added to the morning’s joy. An in-depth discussion with Fr. Provincial at Maduralaya, Dindigul followed, where they reflected on the visit and its impact. Expressing a keen interest, Fr. Roberto also made an additional visit to the JRS office.
February 14 became even more remarkable when Fr. Roberto delivered an online address at the International Conference on Ecology, organized by the Ecology Commission and St. Xavier’s College, Palayamkottai. His reflections on ecology and social justice resonated deeply with the attendees.
Later, at St. Mary’s H.S. School, Madurai, Fr. Roberto visited the St. Mary’s Cathedral and the parish office. Then he engaged students in an interactive session on climate change and eco- friendliness, inspiring them to take action for a sustainable future. Reinforcing Spirit of Solidarity
Fr. Roberto cherished the extraordinary hospitality extended by house superiors and center directors throughout his visit. His journey through the Province provided him with a profound understanding of the social action apostolate and the unwavering commitment of Jesuits to justice, dignity, and empowerment. His visit left a lasting impact on all those he met, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity and service.
Santhanam Arockiasamy SJ
Jesuit Madurai Province
Visit of Fr. Roberto Jaramillo SJ
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