A life changing trip to India in 1983 sparked a lifelong connection to Jesuit Mission for David Francis and his lifelong friend, Grant Enders.
At just 17 years old, David and Grant travelled from Xavier College in Melbourne to India through Jesuit Mission. Having grown up in Rutherglen, a small country town in Victoria, it was David’s first trip overseas and an experience that would shape his outlook on life for decades to come.
“It helped me grow up, become more empathetic and think about others,” David recalls. “It made me realise that there is a much bigger world beyond my own.”
For two and a half months, David and Grant travelled through India far from home. The experience of navigating an unfamiliar culture as teenagers built confidence, resilience and a broader perspective on the world that has stayed with them ever since. One of the most powerful lessons came through witnessing the value of education in communities where opportunities were often limited.
“I saw that education is a privilege and an opportunity, not something that should be taken for granted,” he says.
While spending time with marginalised communities in India, David was struck by the generosity and kindness he encountered.
“The people welcomed us warmly and treated us as equals.”
One of the highlights of the journey was visiting Mother Teresa and having the privilege of meeting her in person.
“Meeting someone whose actions had touched so many lives reinforced the importance of living with purpose and putting values into practice,” David says.
“Meeting someone whose actions had touched so many lives reinforced the importance of living with purpose and putting values into practice.”
David and Grant with Mother Teresa
David was also deeply influenced by the Jesuit missionaries he met, particularly Fr Philip Crotty SJ (1932–2021), a Hazaribag missionary for more than 50 years and former Director of Jesuit Mission.
“He was one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever met. His compassion, wisdom and dedication to helping others left a lasting impression on me.”
Through his example, Fr Phil played a significant role in strengthening David’s Catholic faith and deepening his understanding of the values of service, humility and care for others. The lessons he shared continue to influence the way David views the world and the way he tries to live his life.
More than 40 years later, David remains committed to Jesuit Mission as Chair of the Jesuit Mission Golf Day Committee in Melbourne. Grant has likewise remained deeply involved and has served on the Golf Day Committee alongside David for many years. As Jesuit Mission celebrates 75 years of walking alongside communities around the world, David sees his involvement as one way of honouring the legacy of those who inspired him and the generosity of the supporters who have made that work possible.
“My motivation for continuing my involvement is, in many ways, a tribute to Fr Phil Crotty and his vision,” David says. “I want to help ensure that the legacy of Jesuit Mission continues to grow and provide hope to those who need it most.”
Reflecting on the organisation’s 75 year history, David is also grateful for the community of supporters who have sustained its mission across generations.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity and ongoing support of our community. The golf day continues to grow each year, and that growth is a testament to the commitment of so many people who share a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”
