I first met Fr. Jean Luc in 2016, when I joined the Historical Institute. At that time, he was a doctoral student at Boston University, moving between books, archives, and research materials with an energy that made the rest of us wonder if we should go back to school too. Little did I know that our paths would cross again in a much deeper and more impactful way.
In 2018, he formally joined JHIA as the Interim Director—a role that, in true Jesuit spirit, often comes with unexpected opportunities for deeper service. And indeed, he embraced it fully and wholeheartedly. He became our Director, and from that point on, he brought structure, consistency, and a renewed sense of purpose to our daily work.
From the very beginning, it was clear that Fr. Jean Luc is an exceptionally organized man. He is always punctual and treats the morning hours with the same seriousness that archivists treat rare manuscripts. As staff, we quickly learned that visits to his office should begin strictly after 11:00 a.m.—not out of fear, but out of respect for his concentration. Once those hours passed, however, his door was always open, his mind attentive, and his guidance invaluable.
Working with him has always been a balance of fatherly concern and firm expectations. He is approachable, kind, and genuinely interested in the well-being of everyone around him. Nevertheless, he also values discipline, particularly when it comes to deadlines. If work was delayed, he never raised his voice or created tension. Instead, he invited you in, explained what needed improvement, guided you back on track, and, importantly, embraced our weaknesses. He helped us identify them, understand them, and—step by step—overcome them. At the end of such conversations, he would always conclude: “I am a priest; my business is to show the way.” Those words carried wisdom, compassion, and reassurance—words that many of us have held onto during challenging moments.
His commitment to staff development has been unwavering. Under his leadership, each of us benefited in one way or another—through training opportunities, exposure to new skills, or the structures he worked hard to establish. He believed in empowering his team so that the Institute would stand strong long into the future. One of the clearest demonstrations of his commitment to the Institute came during an important transition period in 2018. At a moment when the Institute was undergoing its usual administrative adjustments, Fr. Jean Luc made a special trip from the DRC to Nairobi to issue our contract letters in person. He wanted to reassure us directly that our contributions were valued and that JHIA still counted on us. That thoughtful gesture spoke volumes about his leadership and his heart.
Later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he again showed extraordinary care and support, guiding and reassuring staff during an unprecedented and challenging time. Fr. Jean Luc often reminded us of a simple truth: “Jesuits will come and go, but you—the collaborators—remain. The continuity of JHIA depends on your daily work and efforts.” This was a constant reminder that encouraged us to take pride in our roles, handle responsibilities with care, and remember that we are custodians of an institution whose mission stretches far beyond our own time.
Conversations with him have always been more than just work discussions. They begin with a sincere question: “How are you? And how is your family?” Only after ensuring your well-being did the discussion move to tasks. This simple habit revealed the depth of his pastoral spirit and genuine concern for people.
Under his leadership, the Institute experienced remarkable growth and renewal. He strengthened communication through new publications and digital platforms, expanded our research resources, and enhanced training opportunities for archivists and librarians across the region. He also supported the establishment of key academic and historical initiatives that continue to shape scholarly engagement at JHIA.
Many significant works were published during his tenure, reflecting his commitment to promoting research, preserving history, and elevating African and Jesuit scholarship. These accomplishments are not just milestones—they are lasting contributions that will continue to shape the Institute for years to come. As he now moves on to his next assignment, we want him to know that he leaves behind not just a more organized, resilient, and connected institution, but a team that is deeply grateful and motivated.
We will remember his guidance, his humour, his calm firmness, and his extraordinary ability to blend academic leadership with pastoral care. Most importantly, we will remember how he embraced our weaknesses and helped us grow into stronger, more confident collaborators. Fr. Jean-Luc, thank you for walking this journey with us.
Thank you for supporting us, challenging us, encouraging us, and believing in us. We assure you that JHIA will remain in our hearts, just as we know it will remain in yours. We wish you every blessing in your new mission, and may God continue to guide and strengthen you in all you do. Thank you.
By Geoffrey Obatsa, Administrative Assistant – JHIA
