What does it mean to be an Ignatian leader in the 21st century? This critical question guided the Jesuit Conference of Asia Pacific (JCAP) Basic Education secretariat during a formation meeting for teachers and administrators of Jesuit schools and educational institutions. It was the first gathering after several years of hiatus, partly due to the pandemic. In collaboration with Jesuit Education Australasia (JEA), this year’s meeting took place in the serene environment of St Ignatius’ College Riverview, Sydney, from the 8 to 11 October and was attended by nearly 40 participants from across the conference.
The workshop primarily discussed four key topics: Ignatian leadership, authenticity and trust, communal discernment, and collaboration. These themes were explored in depth through creatively arranged sessions of reflections and discussions. As Jennie Hickey, JEA Formation and Education Officer, stressed while quoting Sarah Broscombe: “Ignatian leadership isn’t simply generic good leadership seasoned with Jesuit jargon.” Qualities and skills, which are the focus of the workshop, are distinctive characteristics of an Ignatian leader, particularly relevant in today’s world marked by rapid changes, a multiplicity of options, and worldwide interconnectedness.
Many valuable insights emerged during the meeting. For instance, in discussing authenticity and trust, it was emphasised that a true leader—much like Jesus—must be firmly rooted in Truth. In the context of communal discernment, Fr Yasunori Yamauchi SJ from Japan reminded us to cultivate the attitude of synodal listening as an inherent aspect of our discernment process. Meanwhile, Fr Jboy Gonzales SJ from the Philippines shared his insights on collaboration, emphasising that it always presupposes a community vibrantly committed to a shared vision and common missions. Referring to the latest De Statu Societatis, he called to mind that we—both Jesuits and laypersons—are equal collaborators in God’s mission.
After four days of fruitful discussion and reflection, insightful sharing of best practices, and heartwarming personal encounters, the meeting concluded with a presentation by JCAP Education Delegate Fr Leonardus Winandoko SJ. This not only marked the end of the workshop but also JCAP’s renewed willingness in answering the invitation of the Spirit: to be thankful for the gift of our identity and Ignatian traditions while also protecting, enriching, and promoting them in various ways; to do more for those “outside of our fold” as well as for our teachers and students; and to be clear in our mission towards transformative education.
Cecilia Chow’s reflection during the morning prayer on the final day of the workshop beautifully encapsulated the experience: “Over the past few days, Riverview has reminded us of the river Cardoner.” Just as the Cardoner River held meaning for St Ignatius, Riverview has given all participants a profound encounter with the Lord. This transformative experience is now poised to be shared as participants return to their schools and communities. [JCAP Education]