Jesuit Journeys
Winter 2002

Dear Friends,

Since March 16, 1540 when St. Francis Xavier hurriedly left Rome as a last-minute replacement for a sick missionary, Jesuits have traveled throughout the world to bring the Good News of God’s love to others. Not long after he left Europe, St. Francis realized that God was already present and active in India, Japan, and China, revealing Himself in many different ways.

For over 450 years, Jesuits have imitated Francis in recognizing God’s presence in cultures and peoples, while preaching the Gospel of Jesus to those who have never heard about Him.

The first Jesuit to walk into the territory of what became the Wisconsin Province of the Society of Jesus was Fr. Claude Allouez, SJ. He founded a mission on the shores of Lake Superior near present day Ashland, Wisconsin in 1660. French Jesuits soon established other mission sites at Green Bay, what would become Chicago, as well as many sites on the Great Lakes.

Throughout history, Jesuit missionaries were often asked to build schools in relatively unsettled areas. As a result, today when most people think of the Jesuits, education comes to mind first. It surprises many that we are the largest missionary order in the Church.

I hope you enjoy reading the stories in this issue of our province magazine about how Jesuits today continue the work begun by Francis Xavier so many years ago. Thank you for all the ways you help us continue the important work he began.

Your brother in the Lord, James E. Grummer, SJ Provincial

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