Note: This message was originally sent on July 28, 2022
The tagline from the 2016 Filipino production of Ignatius of Loyola, a film based on the memoirs of the founder of the Society of Jesus, whose feast day we celebrate Sunday, July 31, asks an important question:
“If you could hear the voice of God, would you want to keep it a secret?”
Reflecting on the question, my Gonzaga education and the Jesuits I have met over the years have taught me (and so many) to ask even more questions: How might I best use this ability to hear God in a way that benefits others? What else could I inspire by listening more before sharing? Once I know how it impacts the world, how can I amplify it for the good of all?
Sure, its Hollywood-ized phrasing might seem a little goofy, but when you reflect on this question in the context of the principles on which Saint Ignatius founded the Jesuit Order—it’s not so simple or silly. If you seek to find God in all things, God’s voice could be heard in every song ever sung, baby’s babble, opinion espoused, and utterance of God’s creations—even the trailers of the movies God’s creations have made.
“In a world…”
Because Ignatius of Loyola lived and laid down his weapons to instead read and reflect, we live in a world where Gonzaga University exists, committed to its mission of educating people for others for the greater glory of God. To this end, it should not be lost on anyone that every prospective student begins their journey at GU, at the main entrance to College Hall, standing in reflection of our statue of St. Ignatius (pictured above – thank you, Hubert Family). We carry this mission forward for our students and those who will follow because of the great generosity of wisdom and financial resources each of you commit to GU. So on this upcoming feast day, please know each of you will be in our reflections and intentions of gratitude on Sunday.