Fr. Tony O’Riordan SJ served with Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in South Sudan and Syria from 2018 to 2024. In South Sudan, he was Project Director in Maban, one of the world’s most remote refugee camps. He also held the position of JRS Country Director in Syria, where he was present during the devastating earthquakes of February 2023. Today, Tony continues his work with JRS Ireland, accompanying those seeking international protection in Ireland.
Tony’s speech opened informing listeners that while IJI was marking such an incredible milestone, another beloved institution was turning 80 – Thomas the Tank Engine!
“From his humble beginnings as a railway-themed children’s book, Thomas has become a global sensation on TV, teaching generations of children valuable lessons about friendship, responsibility, morality, perseverance, and resilience” Tony explained, “He continues to captivate young minds, evolving through animation and social media to embark on new adventures”
“What I find most enchanting about the story of Thomas the Tank Engine isn’t its corporate success or its dominance in the toy and merchandise markets” Tony adds, “Rather, it’s the heartwarming origin story. It all began with a father caring for his sick son, who was bedridden with measles. To comfort his child, the father and son imagined an animated railway engine, creating this wonderful story long before it became marketable or monetized. It was a beautiful moment of a father’s love and a child’s imagination coming together”
Tony spoke of the importance of stories and the human element to our work as men and women for others. While data, reports, and measurable impact are necessary, he stressed that stories and human connection are central to IJI’s work
“At the heart of everything in mission, is people and individuals, like us, with stories,” he said. These stories, Tony shared, have not only informed his work but transformed him personally.
“They witnessed to me, accompanied me, and made me a better person and missionary” He explains, “while I hope I contributed to their growth, I know I returned enriched and perhaps a better human being and disciple”
Read Tony’s full speech here: Tony O’Riordan SJ – Work in Crisis