Br Anthony Crasta departed from this life for his heavenly abode on 2 March 2024, after a prolonged illness. He was 77 years old, a Jesuit for 60 fruitful years.
Born in 1946 at Kayyar, Mangaluru, Br Anthony joined the Society of Jesus at the age of 17. He went through an Infirmarian’s training course at St. Martha’s Hospital, Bengaluru and completed his B.Com degree at St Aloysius Evening College, Mangaluru. He worked as an administrator and teacher at Loyola School, Jakhama in Nagaland mission, where he touched the lives of many a student and teacher.
In 1985 Tony, as we fondly called him, was chosen to work in the Treasurer General’s Office at the Jesuit Curia in Rome, where he remained at this post for almost 30 years. He quickly learned accounting and financial matters of the entire Society of Jesus and was known for his efficiency, honesty, and integrity. While in Rome he founded the Konkani Kutam, an informal association of Konkani-speaking people – both religious and lay – whom he loved and cared for. Br Anthony was a man of deep faith and prayer. His humility and simplicity, his compassion in words and deeds, his committed and dedicated life and his love and generosity attracted many people to him, and through him to Jesus his Master.
Br Anthony suffered much in his last few years, especially after his return from Rome. He bore his pain with patience and courage, surrendering himself to the will of God. We thank God for the gift of Br Anthony who enriched our lives with his presence, example and service. May his soul rest in peace!
– Melwin J Pinto, SJ
