Fr. Pablo Gil was the quintessential Jesuit. When he was called to his eternal reward on 20th October 2021 at the ripe age of ninety-five, he left behind a rich legacy. Pablo’s family was closely associated with the Castle of Xavier in Spain. It was not surprising that he and his two brothers (Juan and Paco) entered the Society and served for long years as missionaries in Gujarat.
Pablo radiated holiness! When people came in touch with him – it did not take them long to realise that he is a man of God, a man of prayer – someone rooted and grounded in his faith.
Pablo was humble: there were no airs about this great soul who held a doctorate many years before it was fashionable to do so; his intellectual acumen and theological insights could rival the best. Like St Alphonsus Rodriguez, Pablo was humility personified.
Pablo was helpful with a listening heart and a giving hand! Jesuits who had Pablo as the Socius to the novice master and young seminarians of St Joseph’s minor seminary have anecdotes to share of how they would run to Pablo for his counsel whenever they were on the wrong side of the novice master or Superior. The poor and the needy always found in him a good shepherd who responded to their cries
There was never a dull moment in Pablo’s company! He was known for his puns and wit! He effectively used humour to convey a message without being hurtful! Pablo was always happy being a Jesuit, a Priest, a missionary, a companion!
Fr. Pablo Gil epitomised what it meant to be a complete Jesuit: holy, humble, helpful, humorous and happy! There is so much one can learn from him in this Ignatian year!
Cedric Prakash, SJ
