Remembering Fr. Ladislas Orsy: A Legacy of Scholarship and Service
On April 3, the academic and religious community mourned the loss of Fr. Ladislas “Les” Orsy, a distinguished Jesuit scholar, renowned canonical theologian, and long-serving member of the faculty. He passed away at the age of 103, having devoted much of his life to teaching and scholarship, leaving behind a substantial legacy.
A Life Dedicated to Faith and Education
Fr. Orsy’s impressive career spanned over 70 years, marked by significant contributions to the Catholic Church and legal scholarship. Notably, he served as a bishops’ expert adviser during the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), playing an instrumental role in the preparation of the new Code of Canon Law, which was adopted in 1983.
Born in Hungary, Fr. Orsy joined the Society of Jesus in 1943. After his ordination in Louvain, Belgium, in 1951, he immigrated to the United States in 1966, where he would continue his academic and theological pursuits.
His educational background was extensive; he earned a master’s degree in Law from Oxford University, followed by a Doctor of Canon Law from Gregorian University in Rome. Additionally, he studied philosophy and theology in both Rome and Leuven, Belgium, which led him to teach at various Catholic universities around the world.
Scholarly Contributions and Teaching Legacy
Fr. Orsy was an influential scholar who published more than 200 articles and authored nine significant books, including Theology and Canon Law: New Horizons for Legislation and Interpretation and Receiving the Council: Theological and Canonical Insights and Debates. He joined the Georgetown University Law Faculty in the fall of 1994 at the remarkable age of 73, after an esteemed tenure at the Catholic University of America.
His expertise spanned multiple subjects. At Georgetown Law, he taught courses on Roman law, the philosophies of law, and canon law. Remarkably, in 2018, at 96 years old, he continued to share his knowledge through two courses focused on Roman law and the Vatican’s role in international law, in relation to the United Nations.
A Celebration of His Contributions
In 2018, Georgetown Law celebrated Fr. Orsy’s impactful career with an event titled “Vision, Law and Human Rights: A Celebration of the Work of Professor Ladislas Orsy, S.J.” This gathering highlighted his scholarship on Vatican II, canon law, and international human rights, showcasing his influence as a professor, lawyer, and priest. Fr. Orsy actively participated in discussions, responding with his characteristic wit, intelligence, and passion.
His love for teaching was evident in every presentation he made, often reiterating, “what a blessing it is to have the opportunity to teach.”
A Sense of Humor and Warmth
Fr. Orsy’s charm extended beyond academia; he possessed a delightful sense of humor. A memorable moment occurred during his 100th birthday celebration when he recounted a visit to his doctor. To assess his “mental acuity,” the doctor asked him to count backward from 100. With his sharp wit, Fr. Orsy replied, “Certainly. In what language?”
A Lasting Impact
Fr. Ladislas Orsy’s departure is a profound loss to the Jesuit community and the wider academic world. As we remember his contributions, let us keep his family and the dedicated community of the Society of Jesus in our thoughts.
