Three Jesuits Profess Vows in Syracuse

After two years of Jesuit formation, which includes living in community and making the Spiritual Exercises in a 30-day retreat, this month second-year U.S. Jesuit novices pronounce their first vows—perpetual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.

On August 18, New England Province Jesuit Timothy Casey along with New York Province Jesuits Doug Ray and Jason Downer pronounced their first vows at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, N.Y. 

Prior to the ceremony, the novices had reflected on their upcoming profession of vows.  Doug Ray said, “Part of me thinks I should be nervous about this … but really what I’m feeling is a great deal of peace … I’m recognizing this is what I’m supposed to be doing with my life.”

Jason Downer expressed his excitement. “This idea of giving my life to Christ and to God and these vows is something that has grown deeper and deeper inside of me over the past two years. I can’t wait, and I’m humbled to be called a Jesuit, men that I’ve looked up to for 15 years of my life.”

Tim Casey felt at peace with vows on the horizon. “Walking with him [Jesus] is our ultimate purpose; it’s why we’re here. It’s what gets us out of bed in the morning. It’s what drives our work.”

Photo above: (from right to left) Newly professed Jesuits Doug Ray, Tim Casey, and Jason Downer.

For more of Ray, Downer and Casey’s thoughts on first vows filmed prior to the ceremony, watch the video below.