In the beginning of 2021 even in the midst of the pandemic, two Korean Jesuits took their Final Vows, through which they have been definitively incorporated in the Society of Jesus. On 4 January, Fr Kim Youn-su Stefano SJ made his Final Vows at St Joannes Berchmans House, and Fr Kim Hyung-chul Simeon SJ professed his Final Vows on 2 February at the House of the Word Retreat Center.
Fr Kim Hyung-chul said: “I have found out how far I had been from the way these vows invite me to be, and I have no confidence in myself, reflecting on my own shortcomings, limitations, and sinfulness in the past. Nevertheless, I have been consoled by the fact that God has loved me in the Evangelical Counsels, which are poverty, chastity, and obedience.” He added: “I can continue to live this religious life not because I have the capacity but because God supports and encourages me to do so with the love that He gives me as a gift.”
Fr Kim Youn-su shared: “When Jesus was presented at the Temple, he was there without any power, wisdom, or capacity. I realised that God did not want me to do something great for Him. He just wants me to be with Him as I am. He led me to live not my time but His time.” He did not forget to appreciate his Jesuit brothers, saying, ”Because of the love and help of so many Jesuit brothers I was able to live a life of joy.“
After his Final Vows, Fr Kim Hyung-chul was appointed as Novice Master and Superior of the novitiate community beginning 24 January. Meanwhile, Fr Kim Youn-su has been Superior of St Joannes Berchmans House since 6 March 2018.