Remembering Fr. Stan Swamy and 7 Christian Values That Shaped His Mission

July 5, 2025:

On 5 July 2021, Fr. Stan Swamy SJ, an 84-year-old Jesuit priest and tribal rights advocate, passed away while in custody at Holy Family Hospital in Mumbai. Arrested in October 2020 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the Bhima Koregaon-Elgar Parishad case, Fr. Stan’s declining health, Parkinson’s disease, and repeated bail rejections drew national and international concern.

He had spent decades in Jharkhand, working with Adivasi communities, advocating for their land rights, and supporting undertrial prisoners through legal awareness initiatives. His work was rooted in Gospel values and Jesuit mission. On the fourth anniversary of his passing, we reflect on seven Christian values exemplified in his life.

1. Solidarity with the Poor

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40

Fr. Stan lived in Bagaicha, a Jesuit-run social action centre near Ranchi, where he worked closely with Adivasi and marginalised communities. He stood with them in struggles against land alienation, displacement, and unjust imprisonment. His ministry emphasized accompanying the oppressed and giving them tools to assert their legal rights under the Constitution.

2. Courage in the Face of Injustice

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” — Matthew 10:28

Fr. Stan spoke publicly and wrote about state violence, misuse of power, and the rights of indigenous peoples. He submitted affidavits and raised awareness about the imprisonment of Adivasi youth without trial. His arrest and imprisonment under a stringent anti-terror law did not silence his convictions. His courage, rooted in faith, remained visible even in his final video messages before his arrest.

3. Simplicity of Life

“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” — Proverbs 15:16

Fr. Stan lived a life of simplicity in community with fellow Jesuits. He wore plain clothes, resided in a modest room, and lived without personal wealth. Even in jail, his requests were minimal—most notably, he asked for a sipper cup due to his Parkinson’s condition, a basic need that was initially delayed. His simplicity was consistent with his values.

4. Forgiveness and Nonviolence

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” — Romans 12:14

Letters from Fr. Stan during his imprisonment reveal a spirit of compassion and concern—not bitterness. He expressed solidarity with fellow prisoners and spoke of his faith and conscience. There is no record of him promoting retaliation or hatred. His approach remained peaceful and grounded in nonviolent resistance.

5. Faith that Acts

“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” — James 2:17

Fr. Stan’s activism was a direct expression of his Jesuit calling and Christian faith. He integrated prayer, community life, and action. Through workshops and documentation at Bagaicha, he worked to educate Adivasi communities on their legal rights and supported advocacy efforts through the lens of faith and justice.

6. Hope in Suffering

“But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” — Romans 8:25

During his months in custody, despite his worsening health, Fr. Stan remained hopeful. In a court appearance via video shortly before his death, he said, “I would rather die than go to hospital. Please allow me to go back to Ranchi and be with my people.” His hope was rooted in community, in justice, and in his unwavering trust in God.

7. Humility in Mission

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Mark 10:43

Fr. Stan did not seek public attention or power. Most of his work was carried out quietly, through documentation, research, and pastoral accompaniment. Only after his arrest did many Indians come to know about his lifelong service. His humility was evident in how he lived, served, and responded to suffering—with grace and without self-promotion.

Fr. Stan Swamy’s life was rooted in the Gospel and the Jesuit mission of faith that does justice. His death in custody raised critical concerns about the rights of the elderly, prisoners, and human rights defenders. Yet his memory continues to inspire action rooted in truth, service, and compassion. As we mark the fourth anniversary of his passing, we are reminded that the call to follow Christ often leads us to the margins. Fr. Stan walked that path. May we learn from his example—and carry forward his legacy of justice, humility, and love.

By Catholic Connect Reporter