Pedro Arrupe Quotes
- Jesuit priest and theologian
- Spain
- 1907
Pedro Arrupe was a Jesuit priest and the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus. He was born in Spain in 1907 and joined the Jesuits at the age of 20. He is known for his strong commitment to social justice and his influential leadership within the Catholic Church.Arrupe is best known for his…Read More
Pedro Arrupe was a Jesuit priest and the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus. He was born in Spain in 1907 and joined the Jesuits at the age of 20. He is known for his strong commitment to social justice and his influential leadership within the Catholic Church.Arrupe is best known for his role in transforming the Jesuits into a more socially and politically active order, advocating for the poor and marginalized. He also played a key role in the development of liberation theology, which emphasized the Church’s role in addressing social and economic injustices.Arrupe’s notable works include his famous speech “Men for Others,” in which he called on Jesuit educators to form students who are committed to serving others. He also founded the Jesuit Refugee Service, which provides aid and support to refugees and displaced persons around the world.Arrupe’s leadership and teachings continue to inspire many in the Catholic Church and beyond, and he is remembered as a champion for social justice and a true servant of God. He passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on through the many institutions and organizations he helped establish.Read Less
Pedro Arrupe was a Jesuit priest and the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus. He was born in Spain in 1907 and joined the Jesuits at the age of 20. He is known for his strong commitment to social justice and his influential leadership within the Catholic Church.Arrupe is best known for his role in transforming the Jesuits into a more socially and politically active order, advocating for the poor and marginalized. He also played a key role in the development of liberation theology, which emphasized the Church’s role in addressing social and economic injustices.Arrupe’s notable works include his famous speech “Men for Others,” in which he called on Jesuit educators to form students who are committed to serving others. He also founded the Jesuit Refugee Service, which provides aid and support to refugees and displaced persons around the world.Arrupe’s leadership and teachings continue to inspire many in the Catholic Church and beyond, and he is remembered as a champion for social justice and a true servant of God. He passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on through the many institutions and organizations he helped establish.
Pedro Arrupe Career Highlights
- Arrupe was born in Bilbao, Spain in 1907 and joined the Jesuits at the age of 18. He was ordained as a priest in 1936.
- In 1938, Arrupe was sent to Japan as a missionary, where he spent the next 27 years of his life. He became fluent in Japanese and immersed himself in the culture, earning the respect and admiration of the Japanese people.
- In 1958, Arrupe was appointed as the Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Japan, where he oversaw the growth of the Jesuit community and their work in education, healthcare, and social services.
- In 1965, Arrupe was elected as the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, a position he held for 18 years. He was the first non-European to hold this position, and his leadership brought about significant changes within the Jesuit order.
- Under Arrupe’s leadership, the Jesuits shifted their focus towards social justice and serving the poor and marginalized. He encouraged Jesuits to live and work among the poor, and to actively engage in social and political issues.
- Arrupe also played a crucial role in the development of the Jesuit Refugee Service, an organization that provides aid and support to refugees and displaced persons around the world.
- In 1981, Arrupe suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed and unable to continue his duties as Superior General. He resigned from his position in 1983 and spent the rest of his life in prayer and reflection until his death in 1991.
Key Contributions by Pedro Arrupe
- Arrupe’s commitment to social justice and serving the poor and marginalized had a profound impact on the Jesuit order. He challenged Jesuits to live out their faith through action and to be agents of change in the world.
- He also emphasized the importance of education and encouraged Jesuits to establish schools and universities in developing countries, providing access to education for those who would not have had the opportunity otherwise.
- Arrupe’s leadership and vision for the Jesuits led to the establishment of numerous social and humanitarian organizations, including the Jesuit Refugee Service, the Jesuit Social Apostolate, and the Jesuit Conference of Asia Pacific.
What Sets Pedro Arrupe Apart
- Arrupe’s deep understanding and appreciation of different cultures, particularly Japanese culture, set him apart from other leaders in the Catholic Church. He was able to bridge cultural divides and build strong relationships with people from all walks of life.
- His unwavering commitment to social justice and serving the poor also set him apart. He was not afraid to challenge the status quo and speak out against injustice, even if it meant facing opposition from within the Church.
- Arrupe’s humility and simplicity were also notable traits. He lived a simple life and often chose to live among the poor, rather than in luxury. He was known for his compassion and empathy towards others, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Takeaways
- Pedro Arrupe’s life and work serve as an inspiration for all those who strive for social justice and serving the marginalized. His legacy continues to live on through the numerous organizations and initiatives he helped establish.
- His leadership and vision for the Jesuits have had a lasting impact on the Catholic Church, promoting a more socially conscious and engaged approach to faith.
- Arrupe’s example of humility, compassion, and dedication to serving others serves as a reminder of the importance of living out one’s faith through action and making a positive impact in the world.