In the last week of October, 14 Jesuit Brothers from across the Jesuit Conference of Asia Pacific (JCAP) convened in Semarang, Indonesia, for a weeklong Rodriguez Retreat, a time of reflection and renewal inspired by the life and humility of St Alphonsus Rodriguez SJ, whose feast day we celebrate on 31 October.
Br Raymund Belleza SJ, from the Philippines, led the gathering that brought together brothers from Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Vietnam, Myanmar, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Together, we spent time in prayer and discernment to deepen our mission as Jesuits, examining it through the lens of the De Statu Societatis (DSS)—the State of the Society—which provides essential insights into the commitment and growth of Jesuit life worldwide.
This year’s retreat focused on personal and communal spiritual growth and the broader priorities set out in the DSS, which urges us as Jesuits to respond more effectively to the needs of the Church and the world. Immersed in prayer and reflection, we found inspiration in St Alphonsus Rodriguez’s devotion to the ordinary and his willingness to serve in silence and simplicity. St Alphonsus, a porter and lay brother in Majorca, exemplified a life fully dedicated to the love of Christ through even the most humble acts. His witness continues to encourage Jesuit brothers today to embrace our unique role in the Society of Jesus, honouring the DSS vision of Jesuits as companions in a mission that encompasses quiet service and profound impact.
In the spirit of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God), the retreat called us to return to our ministries across JCAP more deeply attuned to our call and the shared responsibility outlined in the DSS. We ended with renewed dedication to serving our communities, empowered by St Alphonsus’s example and united in our mission for the greater good of the Church and society.
Br Jeff Pioquinto SJ is the principal of Ateneo de Zamboanga’s Senior High School in the Philippines and a dedicated photographer. Jesuit Brothers come from different backgrounds and have varied interests, but they are united in their desire to serve and love God. If you wish to know more about the vocation of a Jesuit Brother, please reach out to a vocation promoter in your area.