Personal Experience at SJTI

Reflection by Fr Ian Chitambo OMI

Studies at SJTI

Arriving at St Joseph’s Theological Institute can create a lot of emotions in an individual. There is an excitement of starting something new and there is also hesitancy of starting a journey whose conclusion is uncertain. I started my academic journey at SJTI with philosophical studies in 2014, finishing in 2021 with a Bachelor of Theology. One crucial thing that I realised was that studies at SJTI take a holistic approach, attention is given to all areas of human life and growth. At SJTI I was given the freedom to think and express myself, I was given tools of critiquing and analysing situations in life. In so doing, I also learnt a great deal about myself and the other. Another important lesson that I got to appreciate was that religion and faith should not only remain in a romanticised form. I came to realise that benefits of what I learnt about religion are enunciated more clearly as you engage with the world.

As one leaves the institute, transitioning into the world, there comes a sense of fear and a feeling of being overwhelmed. However, I believe that with what I learnt I will be ready. I will remember SJTI with great nostalgia. What I have learnt and experienced will live in me as fresh as they occurred.

Looking forward in life, I hope to use all the knowledge and skills that I acquired at SJTI. I hope to make a difference even in little things. I also hope to be challenged by life’s situations and learn a great deal out of these situations. As I step into the world I am proud to go out and represent SJTI; whatever I shall preach or teach will be attached to what I learnt at SJTI.