Dear Friends,
As the year draws to a close, the Jesuit Historical Institute in Africa (JHIA) extends its warmest greetings and heartfelt wishes for a joyous Christmas and a hope-filled New Year.
The season of Christmas reminds us of the boundless love of God, made manifest in the birth of Jesus Christ, who came to bring light, peace, and reconciliation to our world. It is a time to celebrate the gift of life, the beauty of shared humanity, and the hope of renewal.
As we gather with loved ones or reflect in solitude, may we be inspired by the humility of the Manger and the promise of Emmanuel—God with us.
As a community committed to preserving and sharing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Society of Jesus and the Church in Africa, we at JHIA are deeply grateful for your support, collaboration, and encouragement throughout 2024. This year has been a testament to resilience, learning, and the power of shared narratives in shaping our collective future. Our publishing goals were made. Our outreach to other librarians expanded. So did our collections, with a wonderful collection of 19th and early 20th centuries catalogues of the British Province. These, alongside Letters and Notices add a wealth of knowledge about the Society of Jesus in the former Zambesi missions, for the joy of our researchers.
As we look ahead to 2025, “Forward and upward” as the Principal of Hekima would say, we look forward to more publications by JHIA, but also to bringing together practitioners of the Spiritual Exercises to Nairobi, in order to reflect on their actuality in the African context.
We also pray for peace and justice across the African continent and beyond. May the coming year be marked by unity, understanding, and opportunities for growth, guided by the values of faith, service, and historical wisdom.
May the joy of Christmas fill your hearts and homes, and may the New Year bring abundant blessings, renewed hope, and meaningful encounters. Together, let us continue to cherish the past, embrace the present, and build a brighter future.
With warm regards and prayers,
Jean Luc Enyegue, SJ
Director – JHIA
