JRS Europe brought together regional and country directors and staff for the Regional Coordination Meeting (RCM) and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Sarajevo last week. Hosted by JRS Bosnia and Herzegovina, the meetings offered a vital space for reflection, learning, and strategic alignment as the network continues to respond to the evolving realities of people on the move in Europe. RCM: Continuing walking towards the next strategic framework. The RCM opened with a thoughtful overview of the Jesuit context in Europe by Dalibor Renic, SJ. Stanko Perica, SJ, then led a compelling session on migration trends in the Balkans and broader European context, prompting participants to reflect on their national realities and how these should shape a shared European strategic framework. Throughout the two-day meeting, participants exchanged best practices and lessons learned from recent years, highlighting both the challenges faced and the innovations developed by country offices. A dedicated session on the One Proposal allowed the network to assess its impact three years after the war in Ukraine began and to explore how to further strengthen coordinated responses. The final day of the RCM was focused on advancing in the drafting of the next strategic framework, which will come into effect in 2026. Sessions aimed at reflecting on the work done internally to develop it through a participatory process and discussing the key findings from the network’s feedback on topics like mission, identity, programme development priorities and capacity building. AGM: exploring diversity and hospitality in the Balkans The AGM, held immediately after the RCM, offered an opportunity to deepen the focus on local realities, starting with a warm welcome from the JRS teams in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. Afterwards, Sarajevo Mufti Nedžad Grabus highlighted the spiritual and humanitarian importance of accompanying people on the move in the region, emphasizing not only the rich religious diversity in the region but the importance of interfaith dialogue and action. The rest of the AGM featured participatory workshops tackling the unique challenges of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s role as a transit country, interfaith collaboration for social cohesion, and strengthening partnerships with state institutions. These sessions, led by colleagues from across the region, sparked dynamic conversations on how to better serve displaced communities while reinforcing JRS’s mission of hospitality and accompaniment. Participants also visited key field sites, including the Temporary Reception Centre Ušivak and the JRS Reception Centre for unaccompanied minors, witnessing first-hand the work being done on the ground. Accompaniment as a Collective Journey The Sarajevo meetings concluded with personal and group reflections, drawing together the threads of faith, service, and strategic planning woven throughout the week. From strategic frameworks to interfaith dialogue, the gatherings reaffirmed the importance of walking together across countries, faiths, and disciplines in our mission to accompany, serve, and advocate for forcibly displaced people.

The archive of the Bollandists was included in UNESCO's ‘Memory of the World’ register! 60,000 pages divided into 67 large volumes published over the course of three centuries: these few figures suggest the scope of the Acta Sanctorum, probably the largest publishing enterprise of the Ancien Régime, a gigantic encyclopaedia of all the saints of the East and West, providing for each of them a critical edition of the sources from which we know them. Begun by the Belgian Jesuit Jean Bolland in 1643, and continued by his colleagues soon to be known as the ‘Bollandists’, such an undertaking required a great deal of preparation: correspondence exchanged with scholars all over Europe, copies of texts found in medieval manuscripts scattered throughout the West... Today, some 300 volumes regrouping these letters and manuscript copies survive, shared between the collections of the Bollandist library and those of the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR).  In addition, some 700 engraved copper plates used to print the illustrations in the Acta Sanctorum are still preserved and kept in the Bollandist library. It is this unique collection that UNESCO has just included in the ‘Memory of the World’ register, underlining its exceptional importance.  This is only the third ‘Jesuit’ archive to receive this label (the other two being ‘Jesuits of America’, a collection held in Chile, which documents the Jesuits' activities in Latin America and the Philippines in the 17th and 18th centuries; and the “Ignacio Ellacuria” collection held in El Salvador).  The Société des Bollandistes, which, through its specialised library, publications and electronic databases, continues the tradition inaugurated by Jean Bolland, is proud of this honour which rewards a centuries-long commitment to a more authentic understanding of the saints through critical hagiography.

Cardinals from around the world will participate in the conclave — a meeting in which the College of Cardinals gathers to elect a new pope — starting May 7 at the Vatican. The 133 cardinals who are under age 80 will be electors. Thirty-three of these Cardinal electors are members of religious orders. Among this latter group are four Jesuits, all appointed by Pope Francis: Stephen Chow, SJ; Michael Czerny, SJ, Jean-Claude Hollerich, SJ, and Ángel Sixto Rossi, SJ. (Five additional Jesuit cardinals are over the age of 80 and will therefore not be participating in the conclave: Pedro Ricardo Barreto Jimeno, SJ, Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja, SJ, Gianfranco Ghirlanda, SJ, Luis Ladaria Ferrer, SJ, and Sigitas Tamkevičius, SJ.) Read on to learn more about the upcoming conclave’s Jesuit Cardinal electors.   Cardinal Stephen Chow, SJ, who was made a cardinal in 2023, has served as the Bishop of Hong Kong since 2021. Born in Hong Kong, he earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota and entered the Society of Jesus in 1984. Before becoming Bishop of Hong Kong, Cardinal Chow served as supervisor of two Jesuit colleges in Hong Kong and as provincial of the Chinese Province of the Society of Jesus. In April 2023, Cardinal Chow visited the Archdiocese of Beijing, the first visit by a Hong Kong bishop since 1985. “One of my dreams … is to have bishops, fathers and faithfuls from four cross-strait societies to pray together,” he said later that year, referring to Hong Kong, Macao, mainland China and Taiwan. He visited China again in 2024. Cardinal Chow was a synod delegate at both Rome assemblies of the Synod on Synodality and described synodality as “a dream that we want to come true.” “I hope it will change the church — I’m not talking about the holy tradition — that it makes the church more relevant to the world, more relevant to fellow Catholics, so that they see they’re part of the church, and the church is part of them. But all that will take some time of learning and adjusting.”   Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, was made a cardinal in 2019. Born in the former Czechoslovakia, his family moved to Montreal when he was 2, and he graduated from Loyola High School there before entering the Society of Jesus. He received a doctorate in human sciences, social thought and theology from the University of Chicago in 1978. He founded the Jesuit Centre (now the Forum) for Faith and Justice in Toronto in 1979; served as director of the Institute for Human Rights at the University of Central America in El Salvador after six Jesuits and two lay people were assassinated there in 1989; was secretary of the Secretariat for Social Justice at the Jesuits’ General Curia in Rome for 10 years; founded and directed the African Jesuit Aids Network; and served as a consultant to the  Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. As prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, he has called for welcoming and protecting migrants. During a press conference for the 2024 World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Cardinal Czerny said, “If we experienced similar pressures,” such as war, poverty, natural disasters or other crises, “we would flee, too.” “Often propaganda or ideologies give the impression that a forced migrant, refugee or displaced person is (on the move) for pleasure, for an adventure. This is false, false, false.”   Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, SJ, Archbishop of Luxembourg since 2011, was made a cardinal in 2019. He is relator general of the Synod on Synodality and served on Pope Francis’ Council of Cardinals, a group of cardinals of appointed by Francis to serve as his advisers. Born in Differdange, Luxembourg, he entered the Society in 1981 and served in Japan, teaching at Sophia University for 17 years, before returning to Luxembourg when he was appointed archbishop. When asked about how the Synod on Synodality might affect the church, he said: “We used to have a very clerical church, with priests and religious as the main players. The rest followed what they were told. When I was a child, I remember the parish priest visiting people’s homes and telling them which magazines they should subscribe to. We did it without discussion. Today, there aren’t enough parish priests to visit homes. Above all, we need to understand that Christians are not objects but subjects of the Gospel and evangelization. The grace of baptism must be lived out creatively and actively. People will come back to the church if, when they meet Christians, they ask themselves: ‘What’s their secret?’”   Cardinal Ángel Sixto Rossi, SJ, Archbishop of Córdoba and an Argentine Jesuit and friend of Pope Francis, was made a cardinal in 2023. In 1976, he entered the Society of Jesus in Argentina when Fr. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, SJ, was provincial. In the early 1990s, Cardinal Rossi served as rector of the Church of El Salvador in Buenos Aires; opened Hogar San José, which serves the homeless; and created the Manos Abiertas Foundation, which provides aid to the poorest and most vulnerable in 10 cities throughout Argentina. He also served as master of Jesuit novices and superior of the Jesuit community in Córdoba and was a popular retreat leader, preaching the Spiritual Exercises to groups of priests, religious and lay people. In 2021, Pope Francis appointed Cardinal Rossi as Archbishop of Córdoba. “For all that his pontificate meant, he (Pope Francis) leaves a legacy that hopefully we take, and we do what he carried in his heart,” Cardinal Rossi said in an interview after the pope’s passing.

“The word ‘God’ is a verb.” This is not an error of a schoolchild grappling with grammar. I first heard this phrase as a student from the Croatian Jesuit theologian Rudolf Brajičić (+2007). His message was simple: don’t seek God as a distant, static object. If it doesn’t touch you, if it doesn’t change you—then it is not God. But what action does the verb ‘God’ perform? Philosophers say it is “to be.” Mystics say it is “to love.” I believe that when these two are united and applied to our human condition, they become “to resurrect” or “to raise.” God’s word to humanity, to each of us, is this: “Rise up!” In my own life, God has worked in many ways. But the most tangible, the most meaningful for me, has been how he lifted me up—raising me from powerlessness, ignorance, guilt, and fear. Every time I was down, on my knees, God spoke the word “Rise!”—in all its forms. That is what God does by definition. That is the Bible in a single word. When Pope Francis chose hope as the central theme for the Jubilee Year 2025, he did so with purpose. It has always been difficult to convince world leaders to pursue peace, justice, solidarity, and care for our common home. Now, they unashamedly move in the opposite direction, and we feel powerless in the face of it. When hope is threatened and anxiety swells, the word “Rise up!” resonates as our Christian message to everyone. It is a word of comfort—and a call to action. This is my hope and prayer for each of you, and for the Society of Jesus in Europe this Easter: that we may be touched and transformed by the same grace that brought about the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Jesuit Conference of European Provincials wishes you a Happy Easter!

From March 13 to 23, 2025, Father Arturo Sosa conducted a series of visits to Jesuit institutions in Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt, emphasizing the Jesuits' dedication to education, social development, and interfaith dialogue in the region.​ The visit started in Jordan where he visited the local Jesuit community in Amman, which is formed by 3 Jesuits (from Egypt, India and Malta).  Already in Lebanon, Father Sosa visited Saint Joseph University (USJ), commemorating the university's 150th anniversary and the Feast of Saint Joseph. During his visit, he delivered a speech highlighting the university's historical significance and its role in fostering academic excellence and societal progress. He also celebrated a homily reflecting on the legacy of Saint Joseph and its inspiration for the university community. Transitioning to Egypt, Father Sosa arrived in Minia, where he engaged with the local Jesuit community and their various initiatives. He visited the Gad-el-Sid Social Center, established in the late 1960s, which offers social, educational, and recreational activities to the local community, irrespective of religious affiliation. Father Sosa participated in a Ramadan breakfast with the center's children and youth, symbolizing the Jesuits' commitment to interfaith dialogue and community building. ​ Father Sosa continued his visit in Minia by meeting with Jesuit priests undergoing their tertianship, the final stage of Jesuit formation. He provided guidance and encouragement as they prepared for their final vows and future missions. The visit concluded with a cultural event featuring a theatrical performance by Nubian youth, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Nubian community and reflecting the Jesuits' dedication to promoting cultural diversity and artistic expression.  

This year marks a significant moment of reflection and commitment within the Society of Jesus. As the Society commemorates the 30th anniversary of Decree 14 of General Congregation 34 (1995); emphasizing that women’s participation is central to the integration of faith and justice; and the world remembers the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted by the UN Fourth World Conference on Women, the theme of this International Women’s Day, “Accelerating Action”, resonates deeply with the voices of women who have shaped the Society’s journey with hope and urgency. Women in the Ignatian Tradition For centuries, the Ignatian tradition has honoured the wisdom, faith, and strength of women. The Society especially recognizes Mary, the Mother of Jesus, whose Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) exemplifies God’s transformative grace. Women have played integral roles in education, formation, apostolic works, and leadership, offering insights rooted in deep encounters with the Gospel. Their presence has shaped the Society of Jesus, mirroring Mary’s openness and responsive love. This history invites the Society to reimagine structures and practices for a more inclusive future. Women’s contributions within the Jesuit tradition are not supplementary; they are foundational. Whether serving as educators, administrators, spiritual companions or leaders, or in support roles, their work is vital to fostering a mission that is both transformative and deeply rooted in justice. Their stories of faith, resilience, sensitivity and service mirror the path of Mary; one of contemplation, courage, and decisive action. This history calls for recognition of the necessity of their participation in shaping the Church’s and the Society’s future. Synodality and Women’s Voices A truly synodal Church requires the authentic voices of women to be heard and integrated into collective discernment. In 2021, Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, established the Commission on the Role and Responsibilities of Women in the Society of Jesus to ensure that women’s voices are more deeply engaged in shaping Jesuit mission. With six lay women, one religious sister, one lay man and five Jesuits, it has worked to assess the implementation of Decree 14. One of its most significant initiatives was a global survey conducted in 2023, reaching approximately 1,400 collaborators. Following the survey’s completion, a qualitative phase was conducted, involving in-depth individual and group interviews with lay women, lay men, religious sisters, and Jesuits, as well as focus group discussions. All participants had prior experience with the Society and its programs, whether as employees or volunteers. It convened in Rome last November for analysis and spiritual conversation toward fulling our mandates, including discernment of recommendations. The final report is nearing completion and will be presented to Father General in the third quarter 2025. Women’s Leadership in the Society of Jesus Ignatian spirituality thrives on the dynamic interplay between contemplation and action. Women have embodied this balance, leading initiatives in education, formation, and outreach. Their contributions continue to illuminate paths of innovative and compassionate ministry. Their leadership, service and proposals are not just a call for inclusion but a catalyst for transformative mission. Women in Jesuit institutions have led efforts in theological reflection, social justice advocacy, and pastoral care. From academic institutions to grassroots community movements, their leadership demonstrates a commitment to faith and justice that is at the core of Ignatian spirituality. Their ability to nurture and guide communities has helped policies and structures that better serve the marginalized. A Call for Discernment and Collaboration As the Commission nears completion, we encourage continued engagement in deep reflection. The inclusion of women is not just about justice – it is about enriching the entire mission of The Society. Their voices, perspectives, and leadership are integral to discerning how best to serve today’s world. Looking ahead, the work of the Commission highlights the importance of creating systems that empower women within the Society. By acknowledging their unique experiences and the transformative power they bring to ministry, education, and social justice, the Society of Jesus moves closer to fulfilling its call to justice, reconciliation, and shared mission. Listening to the Spirit’s Invitation and Call to Ongoing Discernment As the Society of Jesus continues to advance its commitment to justice and reconciliation, the full participation of women remains essential to its mission. The work of the Commission reminds us that inclusion is not just about representation but about recognizing the transformative power of diverse voices in shaping a Church and society rooted in faith and justice. The call to action is clear: to listen, to discern, and to respond with courage.