Ryan Birjoo SJ in Lebanon

It’s strange to believe that almost three years have passed since arriving to the PRO province. As my time here draws to a close, I am very grateful to all its members for the welcome and possibility of learning and ministering together. In praying about this time, and what it has meant to be a Jesuit here, three Gospel images come to mind:

• Leaven: Whether considering ministries with a long history, such as USJ and N.D. de Jamhour, or apostolates relatively new to the region such as JRS, Jesuits have had to fulfill their missions without being great in number. Such situations carry opportunities and challenges. Jesuits carry great responsibility and must invest in collaboration. It is an endeavour that requires great humility and trust in the Spirit working through others, because no matter how brilliant, hardworking, or entrepreneurial a Jesuit is, he cannot do everything, al humdullah. Indeed, in a world of increasing professionalization, Jesuits have much to learn from lay colleagues as well. Still, a Jesuit here must learn how, suaviter in modo, to demonstrate and live an Ignatian vision of life that helps people to see the value of their work for the greater glory of God through service to others. In a world of slogans and mission statements that often ring hollow when impinged upon by reality, only such a living presence can be the leaven that allows each person served and collaborator to grow to their fullest potential.
• A vine with many intertwined branches: While visiting Iraq, as part of JRS work, I had rich encounters with the Yezidi minority group, who survived the violent genocide that Daesh attempted to perpetrate beginning in 2014. It was a reminder to me of the complexity and history of the different groups present in the region. The Jesuits, and indeed, the Christians of the Middle East area at a crossroads with many poignant questions at stake, especially when it comes to others, within and without. What I am particularly grateful for, is the example of individual Jesuit lives and interests, and how they take initiative on these matters. Certainly, the example of Fr. Joe Cassar, and his investment in the Yezidi community comes to mind, and the fact each of the Jesuits in formation here has to learn about the depths of the Islamic tradition. Such initiatives are examples for the worldwide Society.
• Light: Whether considering the Beirut blast of August 4^th 2020, the ongoing economic crises across the region (but particularly in Lebanon and Syria), and the it is no exaggeration to say that we have dealt with great tragedies in the last three years. Yet, human life cannot be reduced to catastrophic headlines. Life, and the depth of God’s graces, have been so much more. When I think of our celebrations in community, and encounters with so many individuals who took their time and resources to share a cup of coffee and some barazeq, my heart swells with faith in the Christ, who comforts us as we comfort his afflicted ones. The continuing journey of our shared companionship, the opportunities to witness the physical beauty of this region, and the simple joys that these difficult times cannot blot out, remind me that there is still good worth laboring for.

As I continue my theological studies, I hope to return, and leave you with a heart full of gratitude, a soul touched by your kindness, and a promise to remember you in my prayers, with hope that you will do the same.

Ryan Birjoo s.j.