A few weeks ago, Jesuit Fr. Hedwig Lewis released his latest book “Being Extraordinarily Ordinary: 30 Strategies for Wholesome Living.” This remarkable book is compact, concise, and direct—without any frills. It makes for compelling reading and challenges one to live a more meaningful life in practical, doable ways—to become a person who makes a difference by doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways.
“This book is all about being extraordinary in every significant aspect of life, with the aid of ordinary, down-to-earth strategies, mind-tools, and hands-on techniques. The 30 themes in this manual are presented to engage the reader in out-of-the-box thinking and challenge them to pursue higher values than they routinely would. An excellent resource for youth animators and as prizes for students. A motivational guide for the young and young-at-heart.”
Published by Better Yourself Books, St. Paul Press, India, the book truly reflects the life Fr. Hedwig has lived. As he completes his eightieth year on earth on October 10, it is only fitting to celebrate this Very Extraordinary Person—our VEP!
Fr. Hedwig is a Jesuit priest, educationist, writer, counsellor—and much more—all rolled into one. He has profoundly impacted countless lives through his witness, his incisive writings, and his ability to stay relevant with the times. What makes his story exceptional, however, is that he has achieved all this despite living with a severe physical handicap—a testimony to his inner strength and faith.
In 1990, Fr. Hedwig was appointed Principal of the prestigious St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad. Under his leadership, the college reached new heights in academics and holistic development. But on October 4, 1995—during a community Eucharist on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi—he began experiencing uncontrollable spasms in his upper body. A week before his fiftieth birthday, he was diagnosed with Meige Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that causes painful involuntary muscle spasms. Despite this lifelong condition, which affects his entire upper body, Fr. Hedwig has never allowed it to define or limit him. For more than three decades, he has continued to give his best, radiating positivity and hope wherever he goes. Truly, VEP strength in action!
In "Being Extraordinarily Ordinary", Chapter 9—“Embrace Your Vulnerability”—he writes:
“Vulnerability is a gift… embrace vulnerability and live life to the fullest.”
And that’s exactly what he has done. Through his life and work, Fr. Hedwig teaches others to accept their own vulnerabilities and live fully, joyfully, and purposefully.
Fr. Hedwig embodies several outstanding qualities, which—interestingly—form an acronym of his name: HEDWIG –
- H for humility, the ability to be cheerfully dependent on others;
- E for exemplary, reaching out and inspiring many across the world;
- D for determination, transcending physical challenges to remain useful;
- W for wise, sharing timeless wisdom through his writings;
- I for inclusive, befriending people from all walks of life; and
- G for generous, living the Ignatian motto, “to give and not to count the cost.”
Fittingly, the name Hedwig has Germanic roots meaning “battle” or “strife”—signifying strength and perseverance. It perfectly suits this “fighter” who continues to live with courage and grace—the true spirit of a Jesuit and a VEP.
"Being Extraordinarily Ordinary" is Fr. Hedwig’s 46th book—an incredible achievement! He is perhaps the most published Jesuit priest in India, writing on topics ranging from spirituality and prayer to skill-building, biographies, and inspirational reflections. Among his notable works are "Fun with Words" (1983), "How to Study" (1984), "Home with God" (1991), "Happiness Manufacturers" (2001), "Mirrors of Life" (1998), and "Once Upon a Time" (2010). His book Body Language is an international bestseller with over 20,000 copies sold and has been translated into multiple languages, including Spanish and Lithuanian. Only a VEP could accomplish so much!
When asked recently what keeps him going, Fr. Hedwig smiled and replied:
“I draw inspiration from the ‘Smiling Christ on the Cross,’ a sculpture of unknown origin hanging in Xavier Castle, Spain. My motto: ‘Abundant Living, Joyful Giving’ (John 10:10). My writing apostolate: my books are my pulpits, my articles—messengers of the Good News.”
Reflecting on his Diamond Jubilee in June 2024, he remarked:
“My Jesuit life has two equal halves. The first I invested as ‘a contemplative in action’; the second I spend as ‘a contemplative in reaction.’”
A truly profound response—worthy of a Very Extraordinary Person.
Based in Ahmedabad, Fr. Hedwig belongs to the Gujarat Province of the Society of Jesus. A Jesuit for over 61 years and a priest for 48, he continues to inspire, write, and serve with quiet determination. As he celebrates 80 years of life, we salute Fr. Hedwig Lewis—a man who truly embodies the joy of giving. You can learn more about his work at joygift.tripod.com.
Congratulations, dear Fr. Hedwig—you are, indeed, a Very Extraordinary Person!
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Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights, reconciliation, and peace activist-writer
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