Fr. Fulgence Ratsimbazafy, SJ, former Provincial of Madagascar Province (MDG) has been appointed by Fr. General as the next Rector of Bellarmino.

Born on December 11, 1971, and raised in a close-knit family with one brother and eight sisters, this Jesuit’s path has been marked by a profound dedication to faith, education, and service. His journey began with an early foundation in the values and teachings of the Society of Jesus, which has remained a cornerstone throughout his life and work.

Early Life and Education

Educated initially at Saint François Xavier School and then at Notre Dame de Kianjasoa Minor Seminary in the Diocese of Fianarantsoa, he was immersed in Jesuit values from a young age. The spiritual direction provided by the Jesuits instilled in him a deep respect for the Society, especially under the mentorship of Brother Fazio Domenico, SJ. Brother Domenico not only guided his spiritual growth but also fostered his love for soccer—a passion that has followed him throughout his life. It was Brother Domenico’s simple question, “Do you want to become a Jesuit?” that set him on a reflective path, ultimately leading him to enter the novitiate on November 4, 1991, and later take his religious vows on November 21, 1993.

Academic and Theological Pursuits

After joining the Society, his academic journey led him to study philosophy at the Institute of Philosophy and Theology in Antananarivo, now part of the Catholic University of Madagascar. This was followed by theological studies at Hekima College in Nairobi, where he completed his first cycle of theological education. His thirst for knowledge eventually brought him to the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley (JSTB), part of the Graduate Theological Union, where he completed a doctorate in 2011. His dissertation, titled The Impact of Globalization on Madagascar: A Critical Analysis and a Christian Response based on the Perspective of the Theology of Reconstruction, reflects his commitment to contextual theology—using academic rigor to address real-world issues affecting his homeland and beyond.

Pastoral and Teaching Roles

His pastoral journey began in 1997 at the Jesuit Collège Saint Michel Amparibe. As a newly ordained priest, he served as a parish pastor in a rural area with over twenty-six outstations. This experience, he recounts, brought him closer to the people and to a life of deep service. His role as an educator expanded with teaching appointments at Santa Clara University, Saint Therese of the Child Jesus Major Seminary, the Catholic University of Madagascar, and Umagis Philosophat Saint Paul Tsaramasoandro. These experiences enriched his approach to theology, merging academic knowledge with the lived realities of his students.

Leadership and Administrative Roles

He assumed leadership roles that include directing the School for Communication at U-Magis University, serving as Delegate for Formation in the Madagascar Province, and leading the Province’s Child Protection Office. Appointed Provincial in 2016 by Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, he dedicated his term to strengthening the Province’s development and formation structures while promoting safeguarding measures.

After completing his term in 2023, he was granted a sabbatical, spending time with the Jesuit community at the University of San Francisco (USF). Recently, he was appointed rector of the Jesuit Community Saint Roberto Bellarmino in Rome.

Vision for the Future

Though he sees the first months at Saint Roberto Bellarmino as a time to listen and learn, his vision centers on collaboration, shared purpose, and upholding the mission entrusted by the Church. Drawing on Pope Francis’s call to “walk together,” he aspires to support the community’s spiritual and intellectual growth. His commitment to theology in Africa reflects a vision of theology not just as scholarship but as a way of life that dialogues with Africa’s social realities, shaping the continent’s future.

In the diverse setting of Rome, he sees new opportunities to engage in the formative work that fuels his passion, nurturing the next generation of Jesuits. The Bellarmino community, known for its cultural diversity, offers a rich environment for intellectual exploration and growth. His hope is that this environment will be one where young Jesuits grow in faith, knowledge, and purpose.

A Life Enriched by Faith and Friendship

Beyond academia and leadership, his passion for soccer—a sport nurtured by his Jesuit mentor—continues to connect him with others. Whether on the field at Berkeley or in Rome, he cherishes the camaraderie and diversity of the sport, as well as the unity it brings.

Reflecting on his life, he is profoundly grateful for the support of his family, friends, and the Society of Jesus, all of whom have shaped his journey. Guided by faith and inspired by the Jesuit motto Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG), he looks forward to serving, growing, and journeying alongside others in the years to come.