Local Superior’s Meeting, Bali 6-8 May 2026

The local superiors of Indonesian Jesuit communities gathered under the warm Bali sun at The Patra Bali Hotel, situated just a short distance from Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai Airport. Participants arrived in stages—some a day early for preparations, others on the single morning flight, and the rest throughout the afternoon. As 5:00 PM approached, the full group assembled outside the conference area. Over evening coffee, snacks, and fresh tropical fruit, we enjoyed a scenic view of the beach as we anticipated the stunning sunset. The proceedings commenced just before dark in the Sunset Room. Though modest in size, the room provided a comfortable setting for the 16 local superiors, the Father Provincial, and the newly elected Father Provincial to engage in fraternal dialogue.

Local Superiors and Their Relationship with the Directors of Work

The first meeting focused on two essential documents: the Guidelines for Local Superiors and the Guidelines for the Relationship between Superiors and Directors of Works. Despite their concise format, both volumes offer substantial governance insights. First issued in English by the Roman Curia in 1998 during the tenure of Superior General Father Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., the books have been newly translated by Father Socius, Melkyor Pando, S.J. Father Kolvenbach’s introduction traces the origin of these texts back to Father Pedro Arrupe’s leadership in 1975 and 1976, emphasizing that Jesuits must continuously study and implement these guidelines locally with discreta caritas.

The Guidelines for Local Superiors establish that Jesuit governance is an apostolic and spiritual endeavor, not a secular management system. It relies heavily on prayer and spiritual conversation to guide decision-making. Complementing this, the second book clarifies the structural relationships required for communities and institutional works to remain apostolically aligned, which is particularly relevant when ministries are led by lay collaborators.

A central point of reflection was the statement, “The community is a reflection of its Superior.” While this prompted good-natured laughter among the participants, it also inspired serious introspection regarding the superior’s role as a mirror of community health. Furthermore, the discussion emphasized that superiors must embody exemplary obedience to inspire the same from their companions. These insights fuelled an animated and productive discussion that continued well into the evening.

A Journey towards Unio Animarum

Amid intense meetings, the local superiors had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park. The group was warmly received by GWK’s director, Mrs. Rosa, who welcomed everyone with refreshing drinks at the Jendela Bali Restaurant. From this elevated courtyard, we took in panoramic views of the breathtaking Balinese landscape before heading toward the majestic, 121-meter-tall GWK monument—the fourth-tallest statue in the world, depicting Lord Vishnu atop his mythical mount, the Garuda bird.

Our exploration began on the 9th floor, which forms the base of the massive Garuda statue. Here, we immersed ourselves in the monument’s rich history, learning how it was originally envisioned by Balinese artist I Nyoman Nuarta and the New Order Minister of Tourism, Joop Ave, and was finally inaugurated under President Joko Widodo. We then ascended to the highest accessible observation deck on the 23rd floor, situated right at the shoulder of Lord Vishnu. Out of deep respect for local Balinese beliefs—which dictate that humans should not stand higher than the deities—elevators are strictly limited to this level. Standing there, we reflected on the ancient epic of Vishnu and Garuda, a story deeply woven into Indonesia’s national identity and cultural imagination.

For the Jesuits, this excursion was far from a casual sightseeing trip. True to our tradition, it served as an immersive experience into local art, religion, and culture. More importantly, traveling together offered a sacred space to foster a true unity of hearts and minds (unio animarum). As we walked, companions naturally drifted into earnest conversations, sharing the joys and challenges of their respective ministries. Some took the time for quiet spiritual conversations with the current Father Provincial, while others engaged in forward-looking dialogues with the newly elected Provincial. It was a deeply meaningful journey that renewed our shared missionary spirit.

Colloquial Talks with the Provincial Superior

The most highly anticipated part of every assembly is the individual interview between each local superior and the Father Provincial, the Major Superior of Indonesian Jesuits. This year’s sessions were particularly special, as the newly elected Father Provincial, Albertus Bagus Laksana, S.J., was also in attendance. Out of respect for confidentiality, the details of these deeply personal conversations remain private, though they naturally touched on the many shared challenges and hopes for our communities and future ministries.

On behalf of their respective communities, the superiors expressed their profound gratitude to Father Benedictus Hari Juliawan, S.J., as he prepares to conclude his term. All are immensely grateful for Father Beni’s steadfast perseverance and patient accompaniment in leading the Province. On the final day, the superiors had the opportunity to share their communities’ visions with the incoming Father Provincial. The meeting culminated in a closing Mass celebrated by the new Provincial, who shared his own hopes for our local leadership. Following a final lunch at The Patra Bali Hotel, the superiors departed just as quickly as they had arrived, scattering back to their respective missions. Wishing everyone a fruitful ministry. God bless,
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.

Contributor: Fr FX. Murti Hadi W., S.J.
Local Superior of the Apostolic Community of SJ Bener, Yogyakarta