Father Patrick Fairbanks, SJ, is the pastor of St. Francis Xavier Church in Cincinnati. A man with a love of etymology, he spends his spare time reading Greek and Latin. More importantly, he has transformed his appreciation of language into a lifelong devotion to God.

Making his way to the Society of Jesus, was a process of discovery—much like the saint who founded his order.

“St. Ignatius didn’t start the Jesuits out to be teachers. It started with the sacraments and tending to poor, sick souls. His method of education became so well known, demand started in the larger cities.”

Fr. Fairbanks actually moved in the opposite direction—he started his career with teaching. He felt called to instruct students in writing, language, and religion in Catholic schools.

"Christ is the small light of God that is in every person."

After eight years, he achieved a position near Cincinnati, where the Jesuit parish was pretty much “the greatest show in town.” It was there that he connected with his spiritual director, Fr. Jack Kramer, SJ. Fr. Fairbanks was drawn to the priest’s words, which warmed him to the idea of being a Jesuit teacher.

“I was always comfortable in religion, but had never wanted to be a priest,” he said. “Slowly but surely, I decided, I can do this.”

	Fr. Fairbanks felt called to instruct students in Catholic schools.

“Ignatian Spiritualty affects the way you pray. You learn to be mindful.”

We all know prayers are a way to communicate with God. But it is their meaning that transcends to something higher—and defines Fr. Fairbanks’ mission. “Prayer is how souls can break out of their earthly prison and become free.”

“Prayers don’t have to be rote or memorized. I want to teach people to be happy in their own searches for God.”

This companion of St. Ignatius is dedicated to lifting people up so they can find the ultimate in freedom. It comes down to each person’s own, unique approach to prayer. We are all different. But Fr. Fairbanks’ message is clear and consistent.

“The mystery of language is in what you can’t see. We are spiritual beings trying to make it through our humanity. Because of God’s mercy, we can go with him.” Fr. Fairbanks’ words speak volumes to all of the faithful.

We hope you will continue to support Jesuits like Fr. Patrick Fairbanks in their vocation. Your generosity allows the Jesuits to continue to spread the Gospel through their ministries.

 

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"For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them." — Matthew 18:20

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Saint Ignatius and a small group of his companions founded the Society of Jesus — the Jesuits — in 1540 to serve ad maiorem Dei gloriam, “for the greater glory of God.”

From the beginning, this “company of Jesus” has worked together with lay women and men. The root of the word company refers to people who shared bread — an ancient symbol of life and essential part of the Eucharist.

Company encompasses ministry, mission, and community. The Jesuit company includes students and alumni, parishioners and retreatants, and people like you.

With your prayerful support, our Circle of Companions in Christ finds God in all things and serves where the need is greatest.

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Saint Ignatius was inspired when he began teaching his students exercises to help them grow closer to God. His example was the beginning of the Jesuits.

Whether educating students, serving the poor, or sharing the depth of God’s love, the Society of Jesus works tirelessly in Christ’s name.

The Chicago-Detroit and Wisconsin Provinces are approaching a much-anticipated unification, creating a Midwest Province.

Jesuits know that experiencing Christ’s love is a gift to be shared. The new province will allow them to better serve those in need in our communities.

You can help the Jesuits through this transition with a gift of your own.