Fr Robert C. Hogan, SJ is remarkable for his manifestations of great love for the Philippines and its people, especially the poor and needy.
Born in New York City in 1933, Fr. Hogan left the United States when he was only 22, came to the Philippines, and went straight to Cebu to do philosophical studies at Berchmans College. He then taught Religion, English and Physics at the Ateneo de Manila University (1958-61). He returned to the US to do theological formation in Maryland, then did special studies in chemistry and physics in New Jersey, New York and St Louis University in Missouri.
When Fr Hogan returned to the Philippines in 1967, he was sent to the Ateneo de Naga where he stayed for fifteen years, handling a variety of assignments—teaching physics, philosophy, theology, being Chair of the Depts of Theology and Natural Sciences, campus minister, director of the pre-novitiate program, etc. He made many friends during these years through his pastoral care for students, faculty and others. To better serve the people, he studied Tagalog, then Visayan at the Interfaith Language School in Quezon City.
After a year’s break in the US, Fr Hogan was sent to the Ateneo de Davao in 1982, where he stayed for almost 25 years, engaged in diverse assignments— College campus ministry, the Theology Department as teacher and chair, director of the vocation promotion program, house librarian and other ad hoc appointments. For many years he stayed actively involved with the Christian Life Community (CLC). He also began the Daily Bread Program, where poorer students were given free meals to help them continue their studies. Father Hogan noticed that quite a number of students were eager to study but did not have enough money for their meals. The program continues to this day as the Daily Bread Community Foundation and is a big help to many of the poor and hungry college students.
All through his years in Naga and Davao, Father Hogan showed much care and concern for the poor, helping them in whatever way he could, according to their need and the resources he could generate. Many continue to communicate with him and visit him to express their gratitude and show him what his help has done for them.
In 2008 Fr Hogan began to experience weakness in his legs and at times difficulty keeping his balance when walking. Sometime he found himself walking too fast and falling. He had the onset of Parkinson’s disease. He was sent to Sacred Heart Novitiate in Quezon City to give retreats and help the CLC. As his situation worsened, he was moved to the Province Infirmary at the Ateneo de Manila campus where he receives the care he needs. He radiates much peace and optimism in the company of the other ill Jesuits and the nurses and caregivers. He keeps active, attending cultural, spiritual and academic functions and events, especially on campus. He has never been heard to complain and is well-loved by all who meet him.
Father Hogan had a special treat three years ago when his sister, Eileen, his brothers, Neil and Fr Pat, and his nephew, also named Bob, came from the US and spent some weeks with him in Manila, Naga and Davao. They met a good number of the people whose lives Fr Hogan had touched. It was a joyous occasion for all and a touching reunion of his family with him.
