I have the fondest memories of my life as a Jesuit scholastic. I spent nine very formative years with the Jesuits: Antony D’Mello – my Rector, Vincent Banon – my Novice Master, Bertie Phillips – my juniorate master, Joe Pithekar – my Marathi Ghar head, and other such stalwarts. I also remember Fr. Neuner and his absolute simplicity and humility despite having such a strong theological pedigree. These were stalwarts who I believe, brought out the best in me and encouraged me to think for myself. Of course this was the very reason that led me to leave the Jesuits after nine and a half years, and choose to do theology as a lay person. I was helped by a recommendation from Bertie Philips, the then Provincial. I subsequently completed my M. Div. in Theology from the Jesuit School of Theology in Chicago. I came back to India and taught theology at St. Pius X Seminary, Mumbai. Later, I was asked to set up the Department of Religious Studies at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. So my connection with the Jesuits is very deep and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been a part of the Order for some very important years of my life.

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