A Faith That Does Justice Names retired business executive, John Swords to Lead English as a Second Language Program

November 1, 2018 – A Faith That Does Justice, Inc. (AFTDJ) announces the selection of John Swords to direct its English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program for individuals who are newly arrived to the Boston area. John takes over for Bill Anderson who developed and implemented the initial stages of the program including the successful completion of 2 class cycles serving over 20 students. Bill is returning fulltime to his consulting business in construction project management.

Swords retired from the Chubb Corporation after almost 40 years in the insurance business. During this time he was the Northeast Regional Director responsible for leading hundreds of people in the execution of a billion dollar business plan. In developing insurance programs for customers, he gained extensive knowledge of many industries including Education, Healthcare, Biotechnology, Legal and Cultural Institutions. He graduated from the College of the Holy Cross.

“Working with Father Peter Gyves and the team at A Faith That Does Justice in leading the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program is a great way for me to use my talents in helping to support the more vulnerable people in society. We are continuously seeking students and volunteers who believe in our mission to put our faith into action. Class sessions start up regularly throughout the year.”

AFTDJ was founded by Fr. Peter Gyves, who is bilingual, a Jesuit priest and physician who once worked in poor communities in El Salvador. The organization offers workshops that emphasize faith lived in action and hosts Community Meetings that focus on social issues that negatively impact marginalized communities. 

The ESOL program is designed to provide education to those who need better language skills to enter the workforce and function in society. The classes will help participants with their language and social interaction skills, which will in turn help them obtain employment and live successfully in this country.

“AFTDJ is honored to welcome John Swords to our team. His extensive background in organizing, managing and motivating people is an asset to our mission driven work with the ESOL community.” AFTDJ Founder Fr. Peter Gyves, SJ MD said. “We are privileged to have someone with his experience and talents committed to leading our ESOL program.”

To learn more about A Faith That Does Justice ESL program, please explore this website.