If ever you wanted to encounter uncontaminated child-like innocence and gentleness in a grownup person, you just had to meet Fr. Jerry. Growth in age or the importance of the many positions of authority which he held or the burden of these offices (all of which he fulfilled with utmost dedication) did not corrupt his innocence – he remained the same simple, gentle and charming person that he was from the early years of his life till the day he breathed his last. The twinkle in his eyes always reflected that innocence. He was a man who enjoyed aplenty the innocent pleasures of life, be it butter, ice cream, chocolates, cigarettes or games such as hand ball, bridge – be it – foursome, cut throat or honeymoon.    

Gerald A. Drinane joined the Society of Jesus in Milford, Ohio, and came to India during his Philosophy studies (1954-55; he began in West Baden and completed it in Shembaganur). He did his regency in Khrist Raja, Bettiah. He studied theology in Kurseong and was ordained in Pro-Cathedral, Bankipore, Patna. His tertianship was in Sitagarh and he pronounced his final vows in XTTI.

Fr. Jerry was very unassuming and hard working. He was an efficient English teacher, gentle administrator, prolific writer, meticulous editor, an able office manager / organizer, melodious singer  and an accomplished photographer. He could be at his desk for hours, continually for days and months and yet would show no signs of weariness. He charmed many young men to the Society, directly by his vocation promotion contacts and indirectly through the vocation promotion materials he produced. No Province program would take place without photographs taken by Fr. Jerry. He was a trusted friend and a gentle guide. The source of his energy was clear – his intimate union with God in Jesus Christ. He was regular with his breviary, meditation, daily Eucharist, evening prayers and annual retreat. He was actively present in all the spiritual exercises of the community. He loved and cherished the company of his fellow Jesuits. He was indeed a dedicated priest-servant of God. In his death the Province and the Society of Jesus has lost an exemplary Jesuit.

In the later part of his life Fr. Jerry did have many physical ailments - diabetic, prostate, heart condition that necessitated a pace maker and lung congestion; but he never complained about any of these. They were all attended to at the initiative of others. At 8:10am on February 20, 2014, he breathed his last while Sr. Anne Irene, MMS, said prayers for him accompanied by the nurses and XTTI staff attendant.

 May Jesus whom Fr. Jerry served with so much love and devotion all his life, welcome him into eternal glory. Thank you Fr. Jerry for your quiet exemplary life. 

Memorial gifts
Memorial gifts may be made to The Jesuits, 2050 N. Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois 60614. To make an online contribution, please click here