Warm greetings from the Jesuit Historical Institute in Africa (JHIA). We are delighted to resume our work after our annual break (July 26 – August 26), during which our offices remained closed. With renewed energy, we are pleased to share with you this latest issue of our Newsletter.

This month, we bring you a touching reflection on the legacy of Fr. André Bouillot, SJ, remembered on the first anniversary of his passing as the “Prophet of the Essential.” His witness to simplicity, poverty, and Ignatian depth continues to inspire Jesuits and friends in Rwanda-Burundi and beyond.

We are also proud to highlight the invitation of our Director, Fr. Jean Luc Enyegue, SJ, to deliver the Sixth Annual Daniel J. Harrington, S.J. Lecture at Boston College on September 18, 2025. His presentation, “The Wisdom of Nya Modo and Afro-Globalization,” will explore how the Ewondo concept of nya modo (“mother of man”) provides a powerful framework for theological reflection, situating African Christianity as a source of hope for the global Church.

In the same spirit of recognition, the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Africa and Madagascar (AJCU-AM) has nominated Fr. Fratern Masawe, SJ, for the prestigious 2025 St. Peter Canisius Medal, acknowledging his transformative leadership in strengthening Jesuit higher education across Africa.

Looking ahead, the Superior General, Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, has convoked a rare Meeting of Major Superiors (MMS) to be held in Rome this October. The last gatherings of this kind were held in 2000 and 2005, making this an extraordinary occasion for the global Society to listen, reflect, and discern its future mission together.

We are also pleased to share news of Fr. Chukwuyenum “Chuks” Afiawari, SJ, who the Superior General has appointed as the interim Assistant for Africa and Madagascar. Formerly Provincial of the ANW Province and now serving in the General Curia’s Communications Office in Rome, Fr. Chuks will assume this responsibility while Fr. Fratern Masawe, SJ, focuses on his recovery.

As JHIA resumes its rhythm, we remain committed to preserving memory, fostering scholarship, and animating the Jesuit mission in Africa and beyond. We thank you for journeying with us and look forward to continued collaboration in the months ahead.

 

By The Editorial Team,
Jesuit Historical Institute in Africa