Miracle of Xavier Learning Community: “Hand of God”

The Jesuits have been in Thailand for over half a century, dedicating themselves to education since the 1970s. They taught in Thai universities, served as student chaplains, and offered courses on leadership training and spiritual formation for secondary and university students. In 2008, a dream began to take shape – the dream of opening their own Jesuit educational institution.
 
They felt a deep need to provide quality education for the poor and disadvantaged youth, especially the young people from the ethnic minorities, the “hill tribes” in Northern Thailand. The Jesuits wanted to make a difference, to give these young individuals a chance to experience a sound academic education with a focus on character formation and spiritual development.
 
Finally, in 2013, this dream started to become a reality. Rome gave the green light to open a Jesuit institution of higher learning in Thailand. While this was an exciting prospect, it was not without its challenges.
 
The first hurdle was deciding where this institution should be located. Initially, Chiang Mai was considered, but the Bishop of Chiang Mai proposed a piece of land in Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai province, previously donated to his diocese by the Sisters of St. Paul de Chartres. This land, where Xavier Learning Community (XLC) now stands, came with a hefty price tag of Baht 17 million.
 
Raising such a large sum seemed daunting. However, a professor from Chulalongkorn University, who had been part of the Jesuit community previously; had made a will to leave his assets to the Jesuits in Thailand after his death, with one wish – “to be buried as a Jesuit.” 
 
“When this was known, his wish seemed almost impossible to fulfill. Moreover, the Jesuits were in desperate need of the funds to purchase the land, hence needed the funds urgently.
 
The professor passed away very shortly after his intention was revealed. Miraculously, another Jesuit priest passed away just one day later. The Jesuits, in a poignant and heartfelt ceremony, were able to celebrate their passing together and bury them side by side, thus fulfilling the professor’s last wish.
 
And when the will was finally revealed, the amount left to the Jesuits was exactly Baht 17 million. This astonishing provision made the first foundation payment for where Xavier Learning Community (XLC), now resides.
 
Since then, many more miracles and very generous people and organisations have come forth to support the growing needs of XLC.
 
To say the least the “ Hand God” has touched XLC and its people.  We hope many more will be touched and will touch.