For Jesuits, the journey to becoming a fully incorporated member spans 15 to 20 years. This journey culminates in a period called Tertianship. Referred to as the “school of the heart” or “second novitiate,” this final stage occurs three to five or more years after completing studies or following several years of active ministry. For me, it has been 11 years since my ordination in May 2014.
From 19 January to 31 July, eight Jesuit tertians representing seven different nationalities are gathering in Melbourne, Australia. After years of academic preparation and pastoral ministry, we return to deepen our spiritual foundation with the wisdom that comes from lived experience. Unlike our initial formation as novices, we now approach this journey enriched by real-world encounters—carrying both our joys and struggles, our moments of uncertainty and insight—which allows for profound reflection and growth. Throughout this pivotal phase of tertianship, two professed Jesuits, Fr Steve Curtin and Fr Brian McCoy, accompany and guide us as companions in the Lord.
During Tertianship, we return to foundational Jesuit sources. We reread and engage with St Ignatius Loyola’s life and writings, his Spiritual Exercises, Jesuit history, foundational Jesuit documents, and the Jesuit Constitutions. These texts become personal encounters that guide our lives and practical experiences. Through this renewed engagement, we deepen our understanding of ourselves and our calling.
The centerpiece of Tertianship is the thirty-day silent retreat—the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius Loyola. We had the opportunity to experience this at the Sevenhill Jesuit community. This month-long period of intensive prayer and reflection in silence, guided by a Jesuit spiritual director, became a privileged moment with God. I was deeply moved by His loving presence throughout my life in those weeks.
Beyond our individual spiritual journeys, community life remains central to the Tertianship experience. Living, praying, and reflecting together, we, Tertians, share and support one another and bring our personal and pastoral experiences into our sharing, listening deeply to one another’s stories and insights. This mutual support creates a rich tapestry of wisdom drawn from our diverse backgrounds and ministries.
Ultimately, Tertianship helps each Jesuit deepen his relationship with God, with other Jesuits, and with the broader Jesuit mission. This dedicated time for reflection allows us to step back from active ministry, honestly assess our journey of faith and vocation, and discern how Christ continues to call us forward each day. Most importantly, Tertianship prepares us Jesuits for our Final Vows, when we formally and permanently join the Society of Jesus.
