Father Mariano Y. Varela, S.J., the oldest living Ilonggo Jesuit at 91 years of age, is known principally for his pastoral work in northern Mindanao and Cebu.
Father Varela was born in 1923 in Iloilo City. He did his early studies in Iloilo and Sorsogon and then moved to Manila for collegiate studies at the Ateneo de Manila in 1941. The Second World War interrupted his studies and he continued for a few months after the war at UST before entering the Novitiate in September 1946. He did the usual early Jesuit studies at Novaliches , then theology at Woodstock College in Maryland, USA.
After ordination to the priesthood at Fordham University in New York on June 20, 1959 and Tertianship in Auriesville, NY, he returned to the Philippines in 1961 and taught English, Religion and History at the old San Jose Seminary on Highway 54. Fropm there he was given a series of new assignments: Ateneo de Manila University Grade School (Asst Headmaster),Sacred Heart Novitiate (minister) and the Jesuit Retreat House in Cebu as superior and retreat master.
After a year’s break and spiritual formation at Guelph, Ontario, Canada, he spent 24 of his most productive years at Xavier University, Cagayan de Oro City (1975-99). There he had a variety of apostolates, but mostly pastoral. He was the director of Campus Ministries, University Chaplain, and built up the spiritual programs of the university, many of which continue to this day. For a while he was also Executive Vice-President of the University and minister and treasurer of the Jesuit Community.
Father Varela is well-known not only for his work at Xavier University and among its alumni but also for his rich spiritual ministry to various groups in the city. He was prominent in his work for married couples and families and among charismatic groups. He did much for the healing apostolate in the city. He developed a large following in the city and its environs. Up till now a good number who benefited from his ministries or worked with him visit him at the Lucas Infirmary and share fond memories of working with him.
Father Varela continued his pastoral work for five years at the Jesuit Retreat House in Cebu directing retreats, counselling and being superior of the retreat house. In 2004 he was sent to Sacred Heart Novitiate to rest and lighten his retreat ministry. A couple of years ago he was asked to go to the Lucas Infirmary to attend to his failing health. Visitors who see him are impressed by his warmth and pleasant conversations. He is much at peace, grateful that the Lord allowed him almost 50 years of active pastoral and administrative work in his vineyard.
