Editors’ Note: This article first appeared as an announcement in the official website of Ateneo de Davao University, October 9, 2023. Reprinted with permission.

On October 7, 2023, in a momentous announcement on the Memorial of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus rejoices in the appointment of Fr. Xavier L. Olin, S.J., as its 13th Provincial Superior in the post-Restoration period. He will assume office on a date that is still being determined.

Fr. Xave, at the age of 49, brings with him a wealth of academic achievements and a profound commitment to the Jesuit mission. His journey began at the Jesuit institution from his hometown, Ateneo de Naga University, where he earned an A.B. in Literature in 1994. Answering the call to serve, he entered the Society of Jesus in 1997.

In 2008, Fr. Xave achieved a significant milestone, completing his Bachelor of Sacred Theology (S.T.B.) and earning a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from Loyola School of Theology. This pivotal year also witnessed his ordination to the priesthood, marking the commencement of his sacred mission.

Fr. Xave has been entrusted with numerous roles throughout his dedicated service within the Jesuit community, reflecting his exceptional leadership and commitment to formation. He has served as the Province Vocations Director and Arvisu House Candidacy Director, positions that require nurturing and guiding individuals on their path of faith.

Fr. Xave’s impact extended to the Jesuit Community of Xavier School, where he served as Superior and Director of Campus Ministry. Here, he played a crucial role in shaping students’ spiritual growth and fostering a vibrant faith community.

Following tertianship in Australia, Fr. Xave contributed significantly to the spiritual development of seminarians as the Director of the Spiritual Pastoral Formation Year program at San Jose Seminary.

At present, Fr. Xave holds distinguished roles within the Philippine Province, serving as the Rector of the Loyola House of Studies, Province Delegate for Formation, and Executive Director of the Center for Ignatian Spirituality. His multifaceted contributions underscore his unwavering dedication to the Society of Jesus and its mission.

The Provincial Superior, Fr. Primitivo E. Viray, Jr., S.J., extends his heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Xave for his generosity and willingness to serve the Province and the Society. He also expresses appreciation to all in the Province who offered their time, insights, and prayers to assist Fr. General in the appointment process.

As Fr. Xavier L. Olin, S.J., prepares to take on the significant role of Provincial Superior, the entire Philippine Province, including the Ateneo de Davao University Community, unites in prayer and support for his journey, confident in his ability to lead with faith, wisdom, and dedication.

Footnotes:

Fr. Xave’s father, Antonio Olin, taught in the Ateneo de Naga University. He became the first lay person to serve as Principal of the Ateneo High School. His mother, Fe Olin was also a teacher at the Ateneo High School.

Fr. Xave joins the ranks of distinguished Filipino Jesuits who became Provincial Superior of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines. This began with Fr Horacio de la Costa, SJ, and in recent years, Fr. Joaquin G. Bernas, SJ (a Bicolano from Baao and ADNU alumnus), Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ, Fr. Romeo “Archie” J. Intengan, SJ, Fr. Antonio Moreno, SJ, and Fr. Primitivo Viray, Jr, SJ. The current Pope Francis, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a Jesuit, was once a Provincial Superior of the Society of Jesus in Argentina.

Header image: Church of Christ the King in the Ateneo de Naga University main campus (credit: Wally Ocampo, Ritratos ni Wally on WordPress)