“Reflecting on this visit, I realize it went beyond mere ecclesiastical protocol. For me, it held deep personal significance; it felt like a father visiting his children, listening to them, encouraging them, and affirming their place in a larger family.”

The weekend of October 10–11, 2026, will undoubtedly mark a significant moment in the history of the Jesuit mission in Liberia and in the life of Holy Family Catholic Parish in Caldwell, Monrovia. It is a great privilege to reflect on our parish’s welcome of the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Very Rev. Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ. His visit was particularly noteworthy, as it marked the first time in over 15 years that a Jesuit Superior General had visited Liberia, following his predecessor, Fr. Adolfo Nicolás, SJ, in 2009.

A Welcome Embodying Liberian Hospitality

Fr. Sosa arrived at Roberts International Airport on Saturday, October 10, accompanied by Fr. Miguel Zaglul Criado, SJ, General Counselor of the Society of Jesus, and Fr. Chukwuyenum Afiawari, SJ, Director of Communications for the Society of Jesus Global and Acting Regional Assistant for Africa and Madagascar. As the chief host, I had the honor of welcoming them, along with our Provincial, Very Rev. Fr. John Ghansah, SJ; other Jesuits; representatives of the Catholic Church in Liberia; parishioners; and members of the Xavier Jesuit School community. The reception beautifully showcased Liberian culture and hospitality, featuring flowers, songs, traditional dances, and a ceremonial parade. Among the day’s highlights was an unforgettable drive to the Wein Town Jesuit Community after the formalities.

Fr. Sosa’s simplicity left a lasting impression on me. Dressed in jeans, a plain T-shirt, and Skechers, he carried himself with an ease that reflected genuine humility. As I rushed to open the rear door for him, I found he had already opened the front door and settled into his seat. Fr. Chuks mentioned that Fr. General preferred to sit in the front, a choice sometimes humorously called the “owner’s seat.” As we left the paved highway for the rugged road to Xavier Jesuit School, I warned him the ride might not be smooth. With a knowing smile, he replied, “Drive carefully.” I chuckled, but beneath my smile lay a deep sense of responsibility. Driving the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, accompanied by Fr. Chuks Afiawari, my former Novice Director, and our current Provincial, Fr. John Ghansah, was no ordinary task. Indeed, it was the most careful and significant driving experience of my life! That evening, Fr. Sosa celebrated Mass with the Jesuits serving in Liberia and Sierra Leone, followed by a fraternal conversation and dinner. Later, I returned to Caldwell to finalize preparations for Sunday’s celebration.

A Parish United in Faith and Joy

On Sunday, October 11, I had the privilege of witnessing Holy Family Parish come alive with exceptional joy. Parishioners gathered at the Old Police Road Junction in Caldwell, singing and dancing as they escorted Fr. Sosa and his entourage to the Church. A young girl from our Children’s Ministry presented him with flowers, adding to the festive atmosphere. At the same time, the Knights and Ladies Auxiliaries of St. John International and Marshall organized an impressive parade and guard of honor. The Eucharistic celebration was the spiritual heart of the visit. I felt immense pride as I saw our African heritage woven into the liturgy through drumming, dancing, and a procession featuring a canoe carrying the Book of the Gospel, accompanied by incense in an African pot. These vibrant expressions showcased a living faith rooted in our culture and powerfully testified to the Church’s universality.

Our parish societies, ministries, choir, and Nigerian and Rwandese communities joined together to offer gifts of joyful dance and thanksgiving. The celebration transcended mere ceremony; it embodied a community united by faith, culture, and a shared sense of belonging. After Mass, Fr. Sosa met with parishioners at a town hall gathering, where we shared experiences as a young Jesuit parish and reflected on our mission within the Church. His encouraging words strengthened our commitment to serve with faith and generosity. A festive lunch followed, fostering a spirit of fraternity among Jesuits, priests, religious sisters, and parishioners. We also presented Fr. Sosa and his companions with special gifts as tokens of our love and gratitude.

More Than a Visit: A Father Among His Children

Reflecting on this visit, I realize it went beyond mere ecclesiastical protocol. For me, it held deep personal significance; it felt like a father visiting his children, listening to them, encouraging them, and affirming their place in a larger family. His simplicity, warmth, and presence reminded me that leadership within the Society of Jesus rests ultimately on service, fraternity, and fidelity to Christ’s mission.

I am profoundly grateful to God for this momentous occasion and to Fr. Sosa and his companions, our ANW Province, the Archdiocese of Monrovia, the Apostolic Nunciature, the clergy, religious, media personnel, parishioners, and everyone who helped make this visit a success. For Holy Family Catholic Parish in Caldwell, that weekend was a celebration of faith, identity, and a renewed missionary spirit. May the grace of this encounter continue to inspire us to serve our Church and community with even greater dedication.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG)—For the Greater Glory of God.

De, Rev. Fr. Tersoo Gwaza, SJ,

Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Parish, Caldwell, Monrovia, Liberia.