Mangaluru, December 20, 2025: St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) held a Requiem Memorial Mass in loving memory of Rev. Fr Swebert D Silva SJ, former Principal of St Aloysius Pre-University College (2001–2006) and St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru (2007–2017), at 8.15 a.m. on December 20, 2025, at the St Aloysius Chapel.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration brought together faculty members, students, alumni, and staff to pray for the eternal repose of a revered Jesuit priest, educationist, and administrator whose life was dedicated to faith, discipline, and academic excellence.
Remembering a life of faith and committed leadership
The Requiem Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr Dionysius Vas SJ, who, in his homily, reflected on Fr Swebert’s deep faith in God and unwavering zeal in strengthening the St Aloysius institutions. He recalled Fr Swebert as a leader who worked tirelessly for institutional growth while remaining rooted in humility and service.
Quoting from Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord”, the celebration highlighted the guiding principle that shaped Fr Swebert’s life and mission.
Tributes from the university leadership
Rev. Fr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), paid rich tribute to Fr Swebert’s dedicated service and lasting contribution to St Aloysius institutions and the wider academic community.
He described Fr Swebert as a man of integrity, discipline, and commitment, whose leadership left an indelible mark on generations of students and educators alike.
Academic journey and priestly vocation
Hailing from Udyavar in Udupi district, Rev. Fr Swebert D Silva SJ was born on March 12, 1957, and completed his early education in Udyavar. He pursued his BSc at St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, followed by an MSc in Mathematics from Loyola College, Chennai, and an MPhil from Madras Christian College, Tambaram.
His philosophical studies were undertaken at Sacred Heart College, Satyanilyam, Chennai, and theological studies at Jnana Deep Vidyapeeth, Pune. He joined the Society of Jesus in 1975 and was ordained a Jesuit priest in 1991.
Distinguished service in higher education
Beyond his leadership at St Aloysius institutions, Fr Swebert served as the Rector and Pro-Chancellor of St Joseph’s University, Bengaluru, and earlier as the Director of St Joseph’s College of Law, Bengaluru.
Known for his strong sense of discipline and fairness, he was instrumental in introducing several new academic programmes, expanding opportunities for students, and championing the cause of the marginalised and underprivileged.
Final journey and lasting legacy
Rev. Fr Swebert D Silva SJ passed away on November 20, 2025, at 1.15 p.m., following a massive cardiac arrest at St Philomena Hospital, Bengaluru, at the age of 68. His funeral was held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at St Joseph’s University Grounds, Bengaluru.
As a Jesuit, academician, and administrator, Fr Swebert touched countless lives through his commitment to education, justice, and service. The Requiem Memorial Mass stood as a heartfelt tribute to a life lived in faithful service to God and humanity.
