It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the death of Fr Aloysious Mowe SJ, announced on 23 February by Fr Francis Lim SJ, the Regional Superior of Malaysia-Singapore.

Amongst his many roles, Fr Aloysious was a former Country Director of JRS Australia; and a close colleague, friend, and powerful presence in the lives of so many within the JRS Australia community. 

Fr Aloysious leaves a deep legacy of service and advocacy. He was a vocal champion of refugees and people seeking asylum both in Australia and globally, and he challenged us all to reach further into our humanity and stand in solidarity with those reaching out for protection.

We are indebted to Fr Aloysious for his invaluable contributions to the important work we do at JRS Australia.

We extend our deep condolences to his family, and to all amongst us whose lives were touched and enriched by him.

Rest in peace, Fr Aloysious, with our gratitude for the legacy you leave.

Memorial Mass for Fr Aloysious at St Canice’s Church

On Monday 4th of March, members of the JRS Australia team and broader community gathered for a memorial mass at St Canice’s Church in Rushcutters Bay, to honour the life of Fr Aloysious Mowe, SJ.

It was at St Canice’s church where Fr Aloysious made his Final Vows in the Society of Jesus on 10 March 2013. In these vows, Fr Aloysious drew attention to the last verse of a favourite hymn:

Here might I stay and sing,
No story so divine;
Never was love, dear King!
Never was grief like Thine.
This is my Friend, in Whose sweet praise
I all my days could gladly spend.

This same hymn was sung during the memorial mass, as a tribute to the life of Fr Aloycious and his contributions to our community. You can listen to this hymn in full below.

Tributes to Fr Aloysious

If you would like to offer your own tribute to Fr Aloysious, please get in touch with us: reception@jrs.org.au.