Dear brothers and sisters, as we know, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition does not provide us with a set of ready-made answers. Instead, it offers a profound framework for engaging our faith experience with diverse philosophical systems, faith traditions, scientific advancements, and social and cultural contexts.

I believe it is this intellectual journey that we are called to undertake as students and faculty members of this institution. By authentically fulfilling this mission, we become capable of leading and animating church communities at various levels. Equally important, we become capable of effectively communicating the Christian wisdom to a secular culture.

Our mission is to form leaders who are not only intellectually sound but also spiritually rooted—leaders who are synodal in their approach, leaders who are not hypocritical but live authentically, and leaders who act compassionately in the service of humanity, especially the underprivileged. Our studies at JD are not intended to help us climb the ladder to status and power; rather, they should help us to climb down the ladder and walk with those whose lives are broken and vulnerable.

As I take on this responsibility, my greatest consolation is the support of each one of you. I am blessed to work with an experienced leadership team that includes our registrar, deans of both faculties, the treasurer, the librarian, the office staff, and a highly qualified and dedicated faculty. I seek the collaboration of everyone—faculty, staff, superiors, student council members, students, benefactors, and well-wishers. Let us stand together in fulfilling this sacred mission.

This moment also calls for deep gratitude. I thank the generations of JD community members who have come before us. Their efforts have built the strong foundation upon which we now stand.

In particular, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Fr. Francis Gonsalves for his dedicated service to Jnana Deepa in recent years. We are all aware of the legal challenges JD has faced. As President, Francis bore the brunt of these struggles.

He stood at the forefront, shielding us from harm, often taking the arrows himself and bearing the wounds. Thank you, dear Francis G, for your leadership, guidance, companionship, and unwavering commitment to taking JD to greater heights.

In conclusion, Jnana Deepa is not an institution like any other. We are not here merely to earn certificates. A degree in philosophy or theology will not secure you a job. Therefore, Jnana Deepa is not just an institution; it is a mission. It is a place where we critically engage with our faith, deepen it within the interiority of our being, and contextualize it within our relationships and social reality. In doing so, we become capable of envisioning and committing ourselves to a future illuminated by Christ.

May we move forward with hope, humility, and determination, knowing that our work here is not for our glory but for the greater glory of God.

Thank you, and may God bless us all abundantly.