Father General Arturo Sosa SJ has appointed Father Flavien Zolabi Mambueni SJ to be the next Rector of the Jesuit Institute of Theology (ITCJ).

Fr Zolabi is a member of the Jesuit province of Central Africa (ACE). For many years he has had several important assignments, including Assistant Novice Master, Novice Master and Consultor of ACE Province. Currently he is a spiritual father and moderator of the spiritual fathers at the Pontifical Urban University “de Propaganda Fide” in Rome, Italy.

In a letter addressed to Jesuits and collaborators, Fr. Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, SJ, the president of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM) describes Fr. Zolabi as a Jesuit with many qualities - most of his life-mission has consisted of training and accompanying Jesuits in formation. As a trained psychologist and psychotherapist, he understands human nature well. He can listen with empathy, support and accompany Jesuits in difficult times. He has a good understanding of the Spiritual Exercises, having served as socius and novice master for many years. His mission at the Pontifical Urban University has exposed him to the universal dimension of the Church in the context of synodality and the Society of Jesus, both in administration and in understanding the challenges of today's formation of future priests.

Fr. Zolabi will take up his next post at a date to be announced later.