Jamshedpur’s Loyola School commemorated St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, with a range of cultural performances and commemorative events, marking ‘Loyola Day’ on the eve of the saint’s feast day on July 31.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Loyola School community gathered at the Fasy Auditorium on Friday to celebrate ‘Loyola Day,’ in honour of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus. The day was filled with cultural performances and commemorative observances, emphasising the impact and legacy of the renowned saint.
The day’s festivities were inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Jerry Cutinha, SJ, the Provincial of the Jamshedpur Jesuits, who led a procession. This was followed by a celebration of felicitation for all Jesuit priests living in Loyola, Bistupur.
Rev. Fr. K. M. Joseph, S.J., the school’s rector, then led the students in an Ignatian prayer, commemorating the historical event. An intricately crafted mime play was performed by the students, illustrating the life and times of St. Ignatius, captivating the audience.
The audience was further treated to celebratory music and dances such as the Ignatian Anthem and Noble Knights, setting the mood for the Loyola Day festivities. A flash mob dance performance to the song "Let’s Get Loud" ended up being the highlight of the evening’s entertainment, with students of all ages participating.
During his address, Rev. Fr. Jerry Cutinha paid tribute to the visionaries and luminaries who helped establish and nurture illustrious institutions like Loyola School. Principal Rev. Fr. Vincent Vinod Fernandes, SJ, expressed gratitude towards the Jamshedpur Jesuits for their dedication and devotion to the school and the community in his vote of thanks.
He further highlighted the Ignatian virtues held dear by "Loyoleans" as a way of life promoting a global community of justice, peace, and love. He praised the Jesuit priests for upholding St. Ignatius’ tradition through their unwavering commitment and service "Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam"—for the greater glory of God.
