In time for the 2024 Advent season, Jesuit Communications (JesCom) is set to release Serving the Joy of the Gospel: Homilies and Remembrances, a deeply reflective and inspiring new book written by Fr. Daniel Patrick Huang, SJ. A compilation of homilies and personal remembrances, the book offers readers a glimpse into Fr. Danny’s 36 years of service as a Jesuit priest, teacher, and spiritual guide.
Fr. Huang, currently based in Rome as a professor of theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, shares the homilies he has delivered throughout his close to four-decade-long ministry. The reflections capture key moments in his service to the Society of Jesus, touching on themes of faith, hope, and the grace of God. The book’s “Remembrances” also recall Fr. Danny’s fond memories of revered Jesuits who profoundly influenced him, including the celebrated theologian Fr. Catalino G. Arévalo, SJ, pioneering Filipino philosopher Fr. Roque J. Ferriols, SJ, and constitutional law expert Fr. Joaquin G. Bernas, SJ.
In the book’s preface, Fr. Danny candidly shares the rare occurrence of writing his homilies, a practice he typically avoided in favor of more spontaneous preaching. However, in Serving the Joy of the Gospel, he presents the exception—written homilies for significant occasions that required extra care and consideration. These reflections offer comfort and insight, what Fr. Danny describes as contributing to the Jesuit “ministry of consolation.” In these challenging times, the book aims to provide readers with spiritual solace and encourage them to discover the joy of God’s infinite love.
The “Remembrances” portion of the book highlights key lessons Fr. Danny learned from fellow Jesuits who shaped his journey. Figures like Fr. Arévalo, SJ, known as the “Father of Asian Theology,” and Fr. Ferriols, SJ, a driving force behind the teaching of philosophy in Filipino, stand out as examples of wisdom and integrity. Fr. Bernas, SJ, recognized for his role in crafting the 1987 Philippine Constitution, is also remembered with deep admiration.
Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, who wrote the book’s foreword, emphasizes the core theme of joy—central to both Pope Francis’ vision of the Gospel and Fr. Danny’s ministry. “The Jesuit is a servant of the joy of the Gospel,” Cardinal Tagle reflects, underscoring the transformative power of faith that runs through Fr. Danny’s work.
Endorsements for Serving the Joy of the Gospel further emphasize its significance. Ateneo de Manila University President Roberto Yap, SJ, praises Fr. Danny’s homilies for their profound insights and deep love for the Church, the Society of Jesus, and Jesus Christ. Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, OMI, and Eva Galvey, of the Emmaus Center for Psycho-Spiritual Formation, similarly highlight Fr. Danny’s compassionate, eloquent style and the lasting impact of his words.
Serving the Joy of the Gospel: Homilies and Remembrances invites readers to reflect on the beauty of faith, guided by Fr. Danny’s inspiring words. As the Advent season approaches, this upcoming publication from JesCom offers a timely opportunity to embrace the joy of the Gospel and experience the consolation that God’s love provides.
For more information on how to get your copy of “Serving the Joy of the Gospel”,
email us via sales@jescom.ph, or call 0929 864 9010 / 8-426-59-71 local 127
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