A Legacy of Faith and Wisdom: Farewell to Fr. Julian Saldanha SJ

Some goodbyes leave behind more warmth than sorrow. The St. Pius community came together to bid farewell to Fr. Julian Saldanha SJ, who steps out of the St. Pius community, for whom he was a man who wore many hats, a resident professor, a spiritual father, and a contemplative theologian. The afternoon began with a touch of reverence as Fr. Julian entered the hall full of Priests, brothers welcoming the beloved member of the Pius family. Bro. Ashwin Barnis was the first to share, reflecting not just the academic side of Fr. Julian, but about the fatherly presence he had been. His words pulled forth Fr. Julian’s simple, yet deeply moving, character and how Fr. Julian had impacted the lives of young brothers through his gentleness and genuine concern. He wasn’t just a professor who taught theology; for them, he lived it.

The next moment brought smiles; it was a video presentation filled with snippets from Fr. Julian’s past activities. It was nostalgic, reminding everyone of the good and memorable life he had shared with us all.

Following this, Fr. Gilbert, the Rector, offered a rich and heartfelt tribute. He unfolded before us the vast contribution of Fr. Julian to the Church in India, to the theological circles in Asia, and even to the universal Church. He spoke about how Fr. Julian's thoughtfulness and clarity in theology had guided many. More than books and classrooms, it was his witness as a man of God that inspired so many.

Bro. Liron and Br. Joel then stepped forward with a token of love: a beautiful memento and a heartfelt thank-you card. Followed by this, we had Fr. Julian, who addressed the community. His words were honest, tender, and filled with wisdom. He opened his heart and shared his journey, his hopes, and his love for each of the fathers, brothers, and the St. Pius X Community at large. His farewell message wasn’t just a goodbye, it was a call to continue walking in faith, to love the Church, and to remain rooted in Christ.

The event closed with prayer and a sumptuous meal, a joyful communion of hearts and plates, as one family, grateful for the gift that Fr. Julian has been to all of us.

While he may have taken leave from the physical space of Pius, his presence in our thoughts, our studies, and in our prayer will remain deeply alive. Thank you, Fr. Julian. You have not just taught us theology; you have taught us how to live it. And just as you said “for all that has been, thanks; for all that will be Amen.”

Br. John Clitus

II Year Theology