A TRIBUTE TO SCH. ANAND MINJ, SJ
30/6/1996 – 02/01/2025
The New Year 2025 brought heartbreaking news to the Manresa House Scholastics, the entire Manresa Community, and the family members of Scholastic Anand Minj, SJ. On the night of January 2, 2025, at 10:45 p.m., Sch. Anand Minj left this world for his eternal home. He passed away at Samford Hospital, Kokar, Ranchi, leaving us all stunned and grieving, as if struck by “a bolt from the blue.”
Sch. Anand had been battling a severe skin ailment since his Novitiate days. Initially treated at Lievens Hospital in Mandar, his condition grew critical, leading to his transfer to Samford Hospital. Tragically, the prolonged treatment had taken a toll on his vital organs, yet through it all, Sch. Anand bore his suffering with remarkable patience and unwavering faith.
Born on June 30, 1996, in the serene village of Katkayan near Manjhatoli in Gumla district, Sch. Anand was the second child of Mr. Habil Minj and Mrs. Margret Minj. Raised in a nurturing Christian environment, he grew in faith and devotion under the guidance of his family and cousins. His early life was marked by active participation in village and parish religious activities, a foundation that later shaped his Jesuit vocation.
With a burning desire to serve as a priest, and with encouragement from his parish priest, Fr. John Dungdung, young Anand joined the Apostolic School in Gumla. After completing his middle school education, he moved to St. Robert’s Inter College, Hazaribagh, while staying at the Jesuit candidate house, Ankur. He completed his Intermediate studies in 2017 and entered Jeevan-Deep Pre-Novitiate in Namkum the same year. His journey continued at SSC Sitagarha, Hazaribagh, where he embraced the rigors of Novitiate life.
It was during the Novitiate that his health challenges became severe. Despite the intense physical suffering caused by his skin ailment, Sch. Anand never wavered in his vocation. His faith deepened, his resolve strengthened, and his patience shone as an inspiration to all around him. On December 20, 2020, in the Chapel of Manresa House, Ranchi, he professed his First Vows, a testament to his steadfast commitment to the Society of Jesus.
Even during the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sch. Anand embodied the spirit of selfless service. Though he himself contracted the virus, he cared for others with compassion and hope. True to his name, "Anand" (meaning joy), he brought light to the lives of the sick and elderly, always ready to lend a helping hand.
Despite his persistent health challenges, Sch. Anand remained an active and enthusiastic member of the Manresa community. Whether participating in college studies or community activities, he always gave his best, leading from the front with a smile that masked his struggles. His resilience and courage were deeply inspiring.
On January 2, 2025, Sch. Anand's earthly journey came to an end, as he embraced the promise of the heavenly Kingdom. Though he endured great physical suffering, he bore it with silent strength, never burdening others with his pain.
The Ranchi Province has lost a promising young Jesuit whose faith, simplicity, and dedication were truly commendable. In life, Sch. Anand was approachable, kind, and compassionate, a beacon of humility and generosity. His sociable and adaptable nature made him a joy to be around, and his courage in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Today, the Ranchi Jesuits mourn the untimely loss of a beloved brother. We pray for eternal rest for Sch. Anand and solace for his grieving family. May the Lord welcome him into His eternal embrace and grant us the strength to emulate his example of faith and fortitude. Amen.
Sch. Robin Minj, SJ