A footprint remains on the pathway of the Jesuit novitiate in Myanmar
I spent two years and two months in Jesuit formation—two years as a candidate and two months as a novice—before discerning to leave. After nearly two decades away from the Jesuit community in Myanmar, I was invited to join Campion Institute, a Jesuit-run educational institution, as a teacher. In many ways, this new role marked my return to the Jesuit world. Recently, I was given the opportunity to participate in a retreat and apostolic review of the Myanmar Jesuit Region.
Though I have been working with the Jesuits for some time, I had, in truth, drifted from the heart of Ignatian spirituality. Thus, the retreat felt both new and familiar—a gentle reawakening of something once deeply known. It stirred within me profound memories from nearly 25 years ago, when I first underwent Jesuit formation in this very same place. Those were challenging years, marked by intense mental and spiritual struggles. Looking back now, I realise that my understanding of formation at that time was incomplete, perhaps even misguided. I carried with me subtle yet lasting wounds that quietly shaped how I viewed my vocation and my relationship with God.
I still remember a prayer I once uttered during those formative years: “Lord, I cannot love You enough to become a Jesuit. Please let me leave this formation, and let me simply try to be a good Christian.” And so, I left.
Returning to the novitiate after so many years, I found myself awash in a complex tide of emotions—liberation intertwined with sorrow. My prayer now flows from a heart unburdened by fear or obligation, animated instead by freedom, gratitude, and openness to God’s presence. Yet, beneath that peace lies a quiet ache—a lingering question: “Why was I unable to overcome those struggles?”
Despite this, being among the Jesuits once again was a true joy. At Mass, in the dining room, and through quiet conversations, I encountered familiar faces—some were my former batchmates, while others were younger Jesuits whom I once taught basic computer skills. Witnessing their faith and dedication filled me with profound gratitude and hope, for the Society of Jesus in Myanmar continues to flourish with vitality and zeal.
A wave of nostalgia washed over me as I walked the old paths. The statue of Mother Mary that I and my fellow novices moulded years ago still stands, and the brick pathway still seems to bear my footprints. These tangible reminders of the past deepened my sense of belonging. Being there felt like coming home—not to a place that is technically mine, but to one deeply rooted in my heart. When the novice master teasingly asked, knowing my present vocation as a married man, “Will you join us again?” I smiled and replied, “Once is enough.”
The retreat also renewed my appreciation for my present work with the Jesuits. I am deeply grateful to share in their mission—to collaborate with people who strive to find God in all things, who labour for justice and peace, and who dedicate their lives wholly to the greater glory of God.
Ultimately, it rekindled a deep sense of life and purpose within me. It feels as though I am being taught once more how to live—guided by the essence of Ignatian spirituality: finding God in all things, practising discernment, striving for the magis, and nurturing a heart that seeks God faithfully amid both joy and struggle. It reminded me of the path I once longed to follow and gently led me back to it. Above all, it awakened a renewed awareness of God’s abiding presence—calling me to live with gratitude, attentiveness, and a heart attuned to His quiet movement in all things. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG).
