Norman Tanner SJ
Before being assigned to Rome in 2003, I was based at Campion Hall in Oxford for twenty-five years, starting there two years year after my ordination as priest. During this time I taught Church History at Oxford University, at Heythrop College SJ, and in a variety of other institutions in Britain and abroad. I was glad to make use of the edition of ecumenical councils of the Church (Nicea I to Vatican II), which I edited, to give short courses – lasting a month or so -- in seminaries and universities, and to various groups of people, in many countries.
Most of my life as a Jesuit after ordination, therefore, has been spent in academic work. This type of apostolate has always been a central concern of the Society of Jesus, so I am glad to make some contribution. Given the great influence and sophistication of secular and non-Catholic scholarship in the modern world, it is crucial that the Catholic Church keeps abreast of developments and makes a serious contribution.
My first year of apostolate, after ordination in 1976, was spent as curate at Farm Street parish church in London. Since then I have been able to do some more obviously priestly and pastoral work, such as giving retreats and spiritual direction or parish work. But such commitments have been quite limited. There is the danger of falling between two stools. Teaching and especially writing require a preparation and focus that are difficult to combine – at least for me – with other attentions.
I am thankful to the Society of Jesus, and particularly its British Province, for the wonderful life that has been given to me. I entered nervously at the age of eighteen and there have been difficult moments. Somehow the holy Spirit has protected and guided me all the way. I am grateful for the rich opportunities for prayer and spiritual life which are central to the Jesuit way of life. Community life, too, is most important and I am ever grateful for the companionship, support and example of my fellow Jesuits.
If God calls you this way, do not miss the opportunity!