The JHIA community gathered for a heartfelt farewell celebration in honour of Fr. Jean Luc Enyegue, SJ, whose years of service, leadership, and pastoral care have shaped the Institute in remarkable and enduring ways. Although the day coincided with the Commission for University Education (CUE) visit to Hekima University College—a moment of great institutional significance—our invited guests still made time to join us.
In his opening remarks, Fr. Norbert Litoing, SJ, expressed our collective gratitude: gratitude to the guests for their presence despite a challenging schedule, and gratitude to Fr. Jean Luc for making time to be with us one more time in the midst of an already full transition period.
The afternoon was warm, reflective, and deeply personal. One by one, colleagues, friends, and collaborators expressed their appreciation for Fr. Jean-Luc’s impact on their professional and personal journeys. As part of these tributes, several symbolic gifts were offered: a pair of shoes, a hoodie, a rosary, a belt, and a cap—each carrying its own gesture of affection and remembrance.
On behalf of the staff, a small delegation—Sr. Carine, Ella, Philip, Jeff, and Denis—offered a pair of shoes together with socks and shoe polish, accompanied by these words:
“As a token of our appreciation, we wanted to offer you something small yet meaningful — a reminder of our gratitude, our affection, and our prayers for your new mission. We present you with this pair of shoes — and with it, a simple prayer from all of us at JHIA.
May our good God guide your every step as you begin this new mission, and may He protect you from rough paths and hidden stones along the way, just as the sole of this shoe protects the foot.
Leadership often calls for difficult decisions — some of which may not be easy or popular. With the pair of socks included, we pray that God’s grace may cushion you from the pressures and friction that accompany such responsibilities.
And with the shoe polish, may the Lord continually renew, refresh, and sustain you. May your spirit be polished daily with wisdom, patience, and perseverance.”
These words were not merely symbolic; they reflected the profound respect and genuine affection the community holds for Fr. Jean-Luc.
When he finally took the floor, Fr. Jean Luc was visibly moved. Overwhelmed by emotion, he expressed deep gratitude to the staff of JHIA, the academic and administrative team from Hekima, and the many friends and colleagues who have supported him throughout his journey. He reminded us that JHIA and Hekima will always remain close to his heart, and that his time here had shaped him as much as he had shaped the Institute.
In closing, he expressed confidence and consolation in leaving the Institute in the capable hands of Fr. Norbert Litoing, SJ, assuring us that the mission continues with strength and dedication.
By The Editorial Team – JHIA
