Xavier High School, Micronesia
The school had only a few boys (and no girls) when it started in 1952 at an old bombarded Japanese Communication Centre in Chuuk State; but for its 2007-2008 academic year, it had 142 girls and boys, among the best students of Micronesia. Under the remarkable leadership of the school’s Director, Fr Arthur Leger, the school community had long prepared for and looked forward to important events which took place in and around the school’s new chapel Maria della Strada.
Located at the most beautiful spot of the school’s campus overlooking the historic Chuuk Lagoon, the spectacular octagon-shaped chapel resembles the traditional huts common in the region and could easily house 200 people. It was blessed on May 28 by Bishop Amando Samo. The following day, its green front yard fittingly became the stage for the Cultural Day events that included local dances skillfully performed by the students from different islands. A solemn Baccalaureate Mass was celebrated on May 30 for the tearful 34 graduating students. On the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, they were awarded with their much-longed-for diplomas in the warm presence of their loving families and friends. A buffet-dinner was served for all the guests and the school community. It was provided by the Chuukese community and other benefactors, in grateful appreciation for the excellent education offered to them by the only Jesuit school in Micronesia.
Jesuit Retreat and Summit, June 9 – 20
Amidst the great geographical distances, some illnesses, and various responsibilities, most Jesuits from the region were able to gather once in two years for retreat and meeting. They were blessed by the generous acceptance of Fr Peter Schineller (NYK), an editor of America magazine, to lead them during the 8-day retreat and the Regional Planning which took place at the former Pohnpei Agricultural and Trade School in Pohnpei State, Micronesia. Fr Schineller has vast missionary experiences in Africa and great familiarity with the Constitutions of the Society. He presented valuable points for prayer during the retreat and helpful input for the meetings, with emphasis on praying and reflecting not only on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius but also on the Constitutions to understand better the identity of the Jesuits and their mission. The long awaited final texts of the Decrees from GC 35 came just in time for the retreat. The strategic 5 – 10 year planning for the Region, which took place right after the retreat, was largely affected by the soaring prices of most of the basic necessities especially food and oil, aside from the decreasing number of the Jesuits. Nonetheless, the growing difficulties also helped confirm the determination all the Jesuits here to carry on the mission ever more in accordance with the "Formulas of the Institute of the Society of Jesus."