In memory of Rev Fr Hedwig da Costa SJ (1936 – 2019)

A towering Jesuit with a regal carriage, a disciplinarian with a stern exterior but soft and caring heart, an eloquent speaker, a voracious reader and a man of principles – are some of the traits that can aptly be considered to describe the former Principal of SJBHS (1972-1977), Rev Fr Hedwig da Costa SJ. After a long and illustrious journey spanning 82 years, Fr. Hedwig joined his maker on the 31st of July 2019. In good health and in sickness, he remained faithful to his ethics, loyal to his vocation and devoted to his ideology.

The requiem Mass for Fr Hedwig was held in St. Joseph’s Boys’ High School chapel on the 1st of August 2019, with full honour and glory. The solemn ceremony was concelebrated by the former archbishop of Bangalore his Lordship Rev Bernard Moras, Fr Ralph (Fr Hedwig’s brother) and a host of priests. Needless to say, the chapel was full with well-wishers, religious priests and sisters and generations of students. The stately body of Fr Hedwig was laid to rest at Mount St. Joseph on Banerghatta Road.

On the 2nd of August 2019, the staff and students of SJBHS organized a memorial service during the regular school assembly to recollect Fr Hedwig’s immense contribution to the school; to pay tribute to his work as a Principal, a teacher and a mentor; and to pray for the repose of his soul.

May his soul rest in peace…