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On October 11, CriaBD celebrated its 40th anniversary by launching the first-ever Christian Comics Festival in Brussels — a joyful success that brought together more than 600 visitors at Collège Saint-Michel. A Celebration of Faith and Creativity For its anniversary, CriaBD gathered artists, publishers, and comic enthusiasts from Belgium, France, and Switzerland. The day’s programme featured panel discussions, exhibitions, book sales, author signings, and drawing workshops for children. The event exceeded all expectations, with 18 authors present and hundreds of albums sold. More than a commercial success, the festival highlighted how the ninth art can be a living medium for sharing faith and inspiring hope. Honouring the Best in Christian Comics During the festival, three awards were presented: European Gabriel Prize 2025: Nathalie Fourmy for Nagasaki 1945 (Éditions Plein Vent) European Gabriel Youth Prize: Geert De Sutter for the Cherche et Trouve series (Mame) CriaBD 40th Anniversary Award: Jean Dufaux and Martin Jamar for their trilogy Vincent, Charles de Foucauld, and Matteo Ricci (Dargaud) The day concluded with a Mass of Thanksgiving, presided by Archbishop Luc Terlinden of Mechelen-Brussels, and concelebrated by Fr. Thierry Dobbelstein SJ, Provincial of the Jesuits in Francophone Western Europe. CriaBD: 40 Years of Faith Through the Ninth Art Founded in 1985, the Centre Religieux d’Information et d’Analyse de la Bande Dessinée (CriaBD) is an ecumenical Belgian association that promotes Christian comics across Europe. The idea was born after an exhibition of Christian comics at the Abbey of Maredsous attracted over 5,000 visitors. Convinced that comics could be a tool of evangelization, Br. Francart established CriaBD the following year. Since then, CriaBD has been a Christian voice in the world of comics, supporting artists and publishers who convey the Gospel message through their work.

On October 30th, the Chapel for Europe, directed by Bernd Günther SJ, was filled to capacity, as more than 120 EU interns and trainees gathered for an inspiring talk with Ms. Hilde Hardeman, Director-General of the Publications Office of the European Union. In a conversation marked by honesty and warmth, Ms. Hardeman shared insights from her impressive career in the European institutions, reflecting on the values that have guided her path. She offered concrete advice and thoughtful encouragement to young professionals beginning their journey within the EU, highlighting the importance of the European spirit of service and the commitment to work for the common good. The evening concluded with lively discussions, networking opportunities, and the chance to meet Mr. Clemens Ladenburger, Deputy Director-General at the European Commission, together with the Chapel for Europe team. The Chapel for Europe, located in Brussels, is an ecumenical initiative supported by different Christian traditions and religious orders. Founded in 2001, it seeks to be a place of prayer, reflection, and dialogue at the heart of the European institutions. The Chapel welcomes people of all faith backgrounds who live and work in Brussels—especially those engaged in European affairs—and offers a space where spirituality, culture, and politics can meet in a spirit of openness, peace, and unity. A heartfelt thank-you goes to Ms. Hardeman for her generous participation and to Mr. Ladenburger for his support in making this enriching event possible.

From October 19 to 22, the conference of the directors and delegates of the spiritual centres of the Jesuit provinces in Europe took place in Vienna, at the Kardinal-König-Haus. The 27 participants came from 17 countries. The theme of the conference was: “Ignatian Spirituality and the Concept of Embodiment.” Embodiment has gained increasing relevance in recent years—not only in personal development, but also in academic research and in the practice of spiritual exercises. The conference was prepared by the Steering Committee: Wilfried Dettling SJ, Ruth Holgate and Christopher Vella SJ. Various perspectives illuminated key aspects of the concept and explored its possibilities and limitations in enriching the understanding of Ignatian spirituality and the accompaniment of spiritual exercises. In addition to the substantive sessions and the spiritual atmosphere, conviviality was not neglected. Under the motto “Ausg’steckt is” (it's out of stock), participants visited a traditional Viennese Heuriger (typical Austrian tavern where young wine and homemade snacks are served), which offered embodied experiences in a uniquely local way. In the end, all agreed: in a time when the boundaries of spiritual offerings are increasingly fluid, the concept of embodiment is not only compatible with Ignatian spirituality, but can make a significant contribution to a reflective and discerning engagement with personal processes and spiritual experiences. At the end of the conference, the participants expressed their gratitude to the steering committee for their commitment over the past years and elected three new members from among their group: Sebastian Maly SJ (ECE), Roman Groszewski SJ (PMA), and Hicham Chemali (PRO). The next conference will take place in Paris in autumn 2027. Wilfried Dettling SJ

From September 8 to 13, the European Meeting of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network took place at the Casa da Torre (Soutelo, Portugal), gathering over 40 national directors and coordinators from 18 countries, including Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, the Vatican, Germany, Malta, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland, Denmark, Hungary, Austria, and Ukraine. The meeting was attended by Fr. Cristóbal Fones, SJ, International Director, and Fr. Miguel Pedro Melo, SJ, International Vice-Director. Deepening the Mission in the Present Time The first day was dedicated to reflecting on and deepening the identity and mission of this pontifical work in the current context of the Church and the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV. These moments of discernment helped renew the understanding of the Prayer Network as a service of compassion for the world, in tune with the challenges of humanity and the mission of the Church. During the following days, key topics were addressed to strengthen the life and service of the national teams. The role of the national director and their teams was discussed, seeking tools to accompany the mission in each country with greater closeness and effectiveness. Work was also done on the Eucharistic Youth Movement (EYM). There was a deeper focus on the mission of accompanying children and young people in their friendship with Jesus and in living a Eucharistic spirituality. A particularly significant moment was the participation of Fr. Vitaliy Osmolovskyy, SJ, who, despite the difficulties imposed by the war, obtained special authorization to leave Ukraine and share the reality of a mission that unfolds amidst the suffering and hope of his people. His presence led to one of the most moving moments of the meeting when a local group of the Eucharistic Youth Movement from Portugal surprised Fr. Vitaliy with a donation for humanitarian causes in Ukraine, thus expressing their closeness and fraternal prayer. Finally, the last day was dedicated to the shared mission and collaboration with various ecclesial actors, such as Episcopal Conferences, Apostolic Nuncios, and other works of the Church. Fruits of the Meeting At the final Mass, Fr. Cristóbal Fones, SJ, recalled that the Network is at the service of the Church and Christ’s mission, encouraging all national teams to respond to humanity’s challenges through prayer, service, and spiritual formation, especially in favor of peace, identified as the great challenge of our time. The European Meeting was a time of prayer, reflection, and fraternity that strengthened the bonds between countries and renewed the commitment to the common mission.

The Provincial Safeguarding Representatives of the European Conference held their third in-person meeting in Rodizio, Lisbon, from 28th September to 2nd October. We gathered at the Casa de Exercícios de Santo Inácio (St Ignatius’ House) and spent 4 days and nights sharing experiences, challenges and best practice from our safeguarding work throughout the year.  There was a special focus this year on the topic of Spiritual Abuse. Research currently being conducted within the Spanish Province was shared with us, along with an external academic expert  facilitating our sessions for half a day, after which we discussed our common understanding and commitment towards countering the issue of Spiritual Abuse through creating safer environments within the Society of Jesus.  The Safeguarding Delegates from each of the 15 provinces which were represented gave input into positive and promising safeguarding initiatives they have been involved in over the course of the year. Just as in previous years, we found great benefits in spending time together in person to discuss individually and in a group the various issues we face within the Society, highlighting practical solutions whilst respecting the confidentiality of everyone involved.   There was a return also to the topic of the PCCP (Promotion of a Consistent Culture of Protection) Online Training Programme, which had completed its pilot phase across Europe between the months of February and April of this year, with input, reflection and an introduction to the next phase given by Fr. John Guiney and Dr. Sandra Racionero-Plaza. We were delighted also to have with us the Director of JECSE (Jesuit European Committee for Primary and Secondary Education), Agnieszka Baran, who gave us an overview of feedback on the programme by a cross section of participants which will help shape the programme going forward. A special thanks to the Portuguese Province for inviting and hosting us this year, and to the steering committee for the time spent in preparing this event: Tomaž Mikuš SJ. (SVN), Julie Ashby-Ellis (BRI) and especially a big thank you to Sofia Marques (POR) for the amazing work put into organising the logistics of the event and for making the experience a truly unifying and memorable occasion. A big thank you (and welcome) to the new JCEP Socius, Gonzalo Villagrán SJ., for his warm presence and expert facilitation and input throughout our meetings.  We are especially grateful for the opportunity to visit Fátima and to have some moments for private prayer and reflection, and a wonderful Mass to energise and inspire us as we continue forward in our joint mission.  Brian Cranmer Safeguarding Coordinator JCEP.

From 21 to 22 October 2025, representatives from the JRS network across Europe gathered in Brussels for the annual Regional Coordination Meeting (RCM) — a key moment to strengthen collaboration, renew our shared mission, and reflect on the path forward under the new Strategic Framework 2026–2029.  Day One: Together in Mission: Igniting Our Shared Vision The meeting opened with the welcoming Mass, celebated by Fr. Alberto Ares SJ and Fr. Stanko Perica SJ, grounding the gathering in JRS’s identity and mission. Participants then shared updates from their national offices, followed by the presentation of the new JRS Europe Strategic Framework 2026–2029, with Bianca Albu and Vincenzo Chiaiese, a roadmap for hope and reconciliation across the region. In this session, participants were invited to provide feedback and reflections on how the document can be further adapted to their national realities, ensuring that the shared vision of JRS resonates concretely within the diverse contexts of each country.  In the afternoon, the group engaged an interactive session on the “Paths of Hospitality”, facilitated by Vincenzo Chiaiese —a reminder that “hope is the path.” The day continued with a visit to the House of European History, exploring Europe’s complex past and shared future, and a tour of the European institutions. The day closed with reflections at the Chapel for Europe and an encounter with the Jesuit European Social Centre (JESC), where participants discussed faith, social engagement, and values for Europe.  Day Two: Building Bridges: From Global Goals to Local Action Day two focused on global alignment and innovation. Gavin Braschi from the JRS International Office led a session on “Building Bridges: Aligning Global Goals with Regional and Country Planning.” This was followed by “Four Voices, One Mission,” a panel moderated by Mariza Koronioti, where four country directors presented innovative national initiatives showcasing creativity and solidarity in action.  The afternoon turned toward sustainability and collaboration: Christoph Klotz led a practical workshop on fundraising in uncertain times, while Carola Jiménez facilitated a forward-looking session on shared projects and new funding opportunities. The meeting concluded with a reflective evaluation and closing session.  Rooted in faith and driven by service, the 2025 RCM in Brussels strengthened bonds across the JRS network and reaffirmed a collective commitment to build a Europe where hospitality, reconciliation, and justice remain alive and active. 

Alberto Ares Mateos, SJ, Director of JRS Europe; Jennifer Gómez Torres, PhD, migration researcher and member of Cáritas Española; and María del Carmen de la Fuente, Director of the Jesuit Migrant Service in Spain published a book entitled "Ser Puerta Abierta" (To Be an Open Door). They bring together theology, biblical tradition, and the lived experience of those who accompany displaced people every day. They present hospitality not as a one-time gesture, but as a profound spiritual force capable of healing wounds, reconciling communities, and building a shared future. The book can be acquired here. The number of people forced to flee their homes has surpassed 123 million worldwide — the highest in history. In the face of this staggering reality, three migration experts call for a simple yet radical response: hospitality. A Prophetic Call for Hospitality The book’s launch coincides with the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees and the Jubilee of Migrants in Rome (October 4–5). In his message for the occasion, Pope Leo XIV described migrants and refugees as “messengers of hope,” echoing the authors’ conviction that hospitality is more than charity: it is a prophetic act of justice and reconciliation. Hospitality has become a central value for the Society of Jesus, inspiring initiatives such as GIAN Migration, the Paths of Hospitality campaign, and JRS Europe’s policy paper on Hospitality-Driven Reception. From local “communities of hospitality” to international advocacy, Jesuit works seek to transform the way societies welcome people on the move, grounding action in dignity, autonomy, and solidarity. A Growing Crisis, a Spiritual Response Over the past decade, the number of forcibly displaced people has almost tripled, rising from 43 million to over 123 million, according to UNHCR. The Jesuit Refugee Service alone supported more than 1.15 million people in 2024, including nearly 200,000 across Europe, offering education, legal aid, healthcare, and pastoral care. This reality, lived daily by those accompanying refugees, shapes the vision of Ser puerta abierta. The authors insist that hospitality is not optional — it is both an ancient tradition and a revolutionary practice. “The question is no longer only how to manage arrivals,” they write, “but what kind of society we want to build together. To open the door is to change lives — ours and theirs alike.”

Benoît Willemaers, Belgian Jesuit and Secretary for European Affairs at the Jesuit European Social Center, wrote recently an article about Ursula Von Der Leyen's "Estate of the Union speech". On Wednesday, 10th September, Ursula von der Leyen delivered her annual State of the Union speech, the first of her second term as President of the European Commission. She styled it as a call to unity for a Union embattled, fighting for an independent place in a hostile world. If her previous exercise, in September 2023, appeared to us a bit too self-congratulatory and falling short of taking Europeans’ worries seriously, this speech was definitely an attempt to address head-on the challenges facing Europe: geopolitical, social, and ecological. Her opening on continued support for Ukraine was not unexpected. While forceful, it was also fairly consensual thinking, stressing the need for more sanctions as well as more European help for Ukraine’s institutions and defense industry. Her obvious frustration with European divisions on Gaza was perhaps less expected, announcing reduced cooperation with Israel where the Commission has the authority to do so, along with propositions to the Council to suspend part of the Association Agreement or to sanction violent settlers and nationalist ministers. Finally, confronted with a shifting world order, courtesy of Trump, Putin, and Xi, von der Leyen defended her policy of pushing for more trade alliances (Mercosur), all while minimizing the impact of US vagaries and attempting to make the EU less reliant on China.  In the line of listening more to citizens, social concerns took a front seat. Actions on a quality jobs act, on a strategy against poverty or on various living costs aspects (energy, housing, food, cars) were announced. In a broader societal context, her intervention also focused on the traditional press and social media, defending the role of the former as democracy’s backbone and promising to protect children from the dangers of the latter.  Ecological concerns also popped up here and there in the speech. A mention of farmers as “custodians of our lands and oceans, our biodiversity.” A development on the circular economy. A defense of electric cars. A recognition of the impact of climate change on forest fires. A reminder of the goals on emission reduction, those already agreed for 2050 as well as those proposed by the Commission for 2040. This said, while there is much we can agree with, we must point out underlying concerns on how these various challenges are tackled and what is missing in the speech.  It is obvious when it comes to ecology: policies apparently must be sold for their tangible economic (opening new markets) or geopolitical (independence) benefits they bring. They also favor, as often, a very technological approach, with a focus on “green” energy. If a circular economy is mentioned, it is in a narrow perspective of having the materials to produce ever more. If that is what it takes to save elements of the Green Deal (thankfully mentioned), so be it. But one cannot help but wonder if this technological mindset is at the level of cultural change required to confront the roots of the ecological crisis. On social aspects, the main worry is evidently the lack of strong competences of the EU, which could lead to disappointing results. Time will tell. Von der Leyen also calls for “all of society, all lawmakers and all stakeholders to come together” in tackling the housing problem. This presupposes a healthy society, in which civil society is vibrant and local initiatives are supported. The approach of the Commission with civil society will be under test in the coming months and years. Funding for civil society initiatives will probably be reduced under the upcoming financial framework. Even more fundamentally, a delicate balance will have to be found by the soon-to-come Democracy Shield aiming to fight disinformation without smothering free speech and association. On geopolitics and trade, the silent part is what constitutes just trade. As for now, it is mostly considered through the lens of Europe’s interests and competitiveness. How political, social, and environmental concerns will survive this focus is anyone’s guess. The recent undermining of the due diligence directive is not inspiring a lot of confidence. Neither is the treatment of the migration question. Considered only under the perspectives of increasing returns of denied asylum seekers and of the fight against human trafficking, the approach is purely defensive, with little thought given to the root causes of migration. Sadly, nothing new here in the last two years. But all this might be missing the point. Von der Leyen evidently attempted to offer bridges to the various partners of her coalition in the Parliament: keeping competitiveness at the front while defending some social and climate goals, defending her deal with Trump while playing up her red lines on digital regulations, pushing for a rearmament of Europe while saving humanitarian principles for Gaza, … If indeed the goal was to find unity, this was in vain and the debate that followed was a sad demonstration of it.  If automatic criticism from the extremes in the assembly was to be expected, the desire to find a new common ground was mostly absent. The leader of the EPP used the moment to taunt the other centrist parties under the tune of “we won the elections, now apply our program.” The answer of the S&D was a strong denunciation of von der Leyen’s agreement with Trump. Only Renew seized on von der Leyen’s speech, running with her calls for institutional changes (right of initiative for the Parliament, generalization of qualified majority voting) and pushing it further. But while there might be merit in the idea that part of the paralysis of the EU is due to its functioning, it is only a small part. The reality is that divisions run deep among countries and political families. Those divisions were sadly on show yesterday. Benoit Willemaers SJJESC Secretary for European Affairs

Cardinal Chow on God's Time, on vocation and and Church in China. Cardinal Stephen Chow, Bishop of Hong Kong, met with young people discerning their vocation and gave a lecture on the Catholic Church in Mainland China on the final day of his three-day visit to Budapest at the invitation of the Hungarian Jesuits. In his lecture at the House of Dialogue in Budapest, Cardinal Stephen Chow approached the presence of Christianity in China from a cultural perspective, because, as he said, this is the way to conduct a dialogue with China. China seeks to assimilate religions from abroad: to see what can be learned from them and to make them part of Chinese culture. He cited Buddhism, which came from India, as an example, whose values were integrated into Chinese culture. He remembered Matteo Ricci, one of the first Jesuits to arrive in China, who was able to start an intellectual dialogue with the Chinese. Regarding the first decades of the People's Republic of China, the Cardinal stressed that they were shaping a new national identity, and therefore rejected everything that came from abroad, from the West. The opening that began in the 1980s also helped the churches. The political leadership became more neutral and viewed the church in a more positive light. Nowadays, the leadership prioritizes the building of a sinicized identity, including for the churches, and they are cautious of ideological influences that comes from the West. Intellectual and cultural dialogue can continue to help cooperation, the Cardinal emphasized. Cardinal Stephen celebrated a Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Pest. In his homily, he drew a parallel between God's time and human time. Today, man lives in a fast-paced world and is increasingly impatient, wanting immediate justice and not wanting anyone to suffer. God's time, however, is different – He is concerned not only with our desires but with everyone’s, and gives sinners time to repent. We must let God be God, and God will surprise those who trust in Him, he said. After the Mass, the cardinal met with young men discerning their vocation. He talked about his own vocation, in which the good example of his Jesuit teachers played a role. The conversation touched on what can help anyone find their own vocations, how to recognize the movements of the Spirit within ourselves, and why it is worth following the desires at the depth of the of our hearts instead those at the surface. As a small surprise at the end of the evening, one of the young men thanked the Cardinal for the conversation in Chinese.

On 28 September - 3 October, the first edition of JECSE's IPP Formators Training programme took place, with 40 participants from Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy, Spain, Malta, Ireland, Poland and Portugal taking part in it. This training is included in JECSE's Ignatian Pedagogical Programme, which seeks to promote the use of IPP in the classroom as a tool for developing our educational apostolate. The programme has a horizon: our mission; is based on our foundations: Ignatian spirituality and spiritual exercises; and counts on a means: Ignatian pedagogy. “We have a treasure: the Ignatian style of education. IPP is the way we can better convey our teaching & learning process to provide students with quality education; it aligns with pedagogical theories, our current laws and our needs as XXI century society.” (Nadezhna Castellano and Javier Orellana, Spain A Formation in Two Phases: Online and Face-to-Face The formation included online activities as well as a face-to-face training week. During the online phase, from June to September 2025, participants worked with some of the key documents for our educational work: The Characteristics of Jesuit Education, Jesuit Education aims to Human Excellence: Men and Women of Conscience, Competence, Compassion and Commitment and Ignatian Pedagogy, A Practical Approach; they analysed the relationship between Ignatian spirituality and pedagogy and attended a workshop entitled: IPP as a tool for mission, in which they visualised spaces for developing Ignatian mission and spirituality within the curriculum/teaching practices. On 28 September, we all gathered at Seminário de S. Paulo de Almada, near Lisbon, to begin the face-to-face training led by Father Johnny Go and Miss Ritta Atienza, authors of the book: Learning by Refraction: A Practitioner's Guide to 21st-Century Ignatian Pedagogy.  "I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to learn from the best experts in the field and the opportunity to undertake this training journey with other Ignatian school teachers with whom, despite being at different stages, we share common goals.” (Luís Esteves, Portugal) Objectives and Hands-On Learning During this week, participants were able to: Deepen their knowledge of Ignatian pedagogy. Practise strategies, dynamics and resources to promote reflection in the classroom. Know service learning methodology as a way of promoting Ignatian action. Practise some tools to train other colleagues and adults. The goal was for them to acquire expertise in designing training on Ignatian pedagogy so that they can be formators in their own schools, foundations and provinces, thus expanding the scope of the programme and the number of students and schools that can regularly use Ignatian pedagogy in the classroom.  Putting Learning Into Practice The highlight of the training came when participants were able to put into practice the workshops designed during the week. To this end, we had the precious collaboration of Colégio São João de Brito, in Lisbon.  After visiting the beautiful city of Lisbon, we arrived at the school, where we witnessed inspiring projects that teachers carry out with their students. After that, nearly 100 teachers participated in our workshops on promoting students' reflection and action. We would like to thank the school staff for all their support during the training week and the teaching staff for their enthusiastic attitude during the workshops.  The fruits of this training process are very rich: a strong feeling of gratitude, personal growth, deep learning experience, sharing and working as a team…and a sense of community that will surely endure over time... “This training has made me feel part of a single community with a shared educational mission.”  (Mª Luisa Rosety, Spain) “I saw for the first time how large our Jesuit network is and how many interesting things are happening in other schools.” (Paweł, Poland) Many thanks to all those who participated in and promoted this formation experience.   Yolanda Baquero López  JECSE's Ignatian Pedagogical Programme Coordinator

Parents, students, and teachers from the European Schools of Brussels gathered on Saturday, 4 October, for the Back-to-School Mass at the Chapel of Collège Saint-Michel. The event marked the opening of the 2025–2026 academic year under the theme of gratitude and praise for Creation. Presiding over the celebration was Archbishop Luc Terlinden, joined by Jesuit Fathers Dalibor Renić, Gonzalo Villagrán, Bernd Günther, and Franck Janin. The responsibility for Catholic religious education in the European Schools in Brussels was entrusted to the Society of Jesus and it is under the care of the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials, in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels and COMECE. Jesuits are engaged in providing continuous spiritual and pedagogical Ignatian formation to the teachers and collaborate in pastoral activities with students. There are about 50 teachers of religion, teaching in 21 different languages. The coordinator of this work is Annie Thumelaire. A Celebration in the Spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi The date coincided with the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose life and message inspired the tone of the celebration. Saint Francis invites us to live with gratitude and wonder before the world entrusted to us by God — and this Mass beautifully reflected that spirit. In his homily, Archbishop Terlinden encouraged the community to begin the new school year “in the manner of Francis, like a little one who allows himself to be touched by the gentle and humble love of Jesus on the cross.” He reminded the assembly that this love — “not necessarily the one understood by the wise and learned, but the one that reaches simple and open hearts” — is what truly transforms our lives. Reflecting on Saint Francis, he spoke of how “the young man who once dreamed of glory and heroic deeds became a new creation, clothing his heart with gentleness and humility.” The Archbishop invited everyone to live this new academic year in the joy of the Beatitudes, the paradoxical joy that flows from the Gospel: “To take Christ’s yoke upon us is not to flee from difficulties, but to walk in peace with the One who refuses to impose His power and who lives out the Beatitudes.” A Multilingual and Creative Celebration In true European spirit, the celebration brought together the many languages and cultures that make up the community of the European Schools. Readings and hymns were presented in several languages by student and teacher choirs, reflecting the diversity and unity that define the schools’ spiritual life. The chapel was decorated with prayers and intentions prepared by students during religion classes, expressing gratitude for the beauty of nature and the gift of life. Meanwhile, the youngest participants (under 7 years old) enjoyed a special children’s catechesis, discovering Saint Francis’s message through storytelling and hands-on activities. A Warm and Joyful Gathering After Mass, everyone gathered around a generous buffet, sharing a joyful moment of fellowship. Parents, students, and teachers enjoyed reconnecting and celebrating together the start of a new year filled with praise, respect, and joy for Creation. This event was made possible thanks to the collaboration between religion teachers, students, parents, and clergy, who together created an atmosphere of deep faith and community spirit — a moment to remember for all who attended.

Ignatian tradition and digital innovation on your phone On September 17, AMDG.app, a new Jesuit App, was launched . This app was developed by the Loyola Communications Group, the publication company of the Province of Spain, to address a very specific need: to provide each person, at the right time, with the best of Ignatian spirituality and existing pastoral resources. For years, projects such as Rezandovoy, PastoralSJ, SerJesuita, Espiritualidad Ignaciana, MAG+S, VocesSJ, Evangelio Diario, Jesuitas Acústico, Revista Manresa, along with publishers such as Sal Terrae and Mensajero, have offered an immense amount of high-quality material . However, in many cases, only the latest publications reached the public, while the majority of the collection remained in the background. AMDG aims to bring this accumulated treasure to light and make it available to each person in a personalized way. It does so by relying on semantic artificial intelligence designed specifically for this project. AI, in this case, is a tool at the service of the mission : capable of interpreting each user's searches, interests, and life moments to offer them the most appropriate content. Thus, technology becomes an ally of pastoral care and spiritual life , allowing the enormous wealth already created to be accessible in another way. So that God may be seen . One of the app's most valued features is the integration of the Ignatian Examination in a contemporary way , accompanied by prayers, readings, and music that adapt daily to the user. And, for those who wish to delve even deeper, the AMDG PLUS subscription opens the door to a very extensive digital catalog of books by renowned authors and reference magazines in subscription mode, making them easy to read on a mobile phone. The choice of the name AMDG underscores a common thread: it's a brand already present in other pastoral and vocational projects , and it recalls the shared horizon of our mission . With this commitment, the Loyola Communications Group aims to demonstrate that the Ignatian tradition can interact with today's tools , that collaboration multiplies reach, and that, by working together, we can bring Ignatian spirituality to more people at more moments in their lives. Ultimately, the AMDG app is an innovative project that reflects the best of our approach : sharing, discerning together, ensuring quality, and daring to take new steps, always for the greater glory of God.

In October 2025, the Munich School of Philosophy (HFPH) celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of Jesuit dedication to philosophy, dialogue, and education. The jubilee opened with a Mass led by Cardinal Reinhard Marx, attended by Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Jesuits. A festive academic ceremony followed, where both leaders reflected on the university’s ongoing mission. In his keynote, Fr. Sosa highlighted the role of philosophy in addressing global challenges and promoting free and responsible thinking. The celebration honored HFPH’s legacy and looked ahead to a new century of dialogue between faith, reason, and society.  

The Kircher Network General Assembly of Presidents and Deans took place in Munich on October 10–11, 2025, in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Munich School of Philosophy — a milestone celebrated with the participation of Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Society of Jesus. The gathering brought together leaders from Jesuit universities across Europe and the Near East to reflect on the network's shared mission and outline its next steps for collaboration and growth. Philip Geister, SJ, President of the Kircher Network, and Dr Susana Di Trolio, Executive Secretary, reported on the developments and projects carried out by the network since the last Assembly (2024) hosted by the University of Deusto. Their presentation highlighted the continuation of the Canisius Formation Program (second edition), the expansion of inter-institutional academic initiatives — such as the HEST groups on Christian and Muslim Dialogue, Secularisation in Europe, and the creation of the Group of Meaningful Learning — and progress in strengthening collaboration among member universities, led by the Group of Senior International Officers. In line with the Kircher Strategic Plan (2024 - 2028), which states that as a regional association belonging to the IAJU, the Kircher Network's mission is to strengthen academic collaboration, the Jesuit identity, and the sense of shared apostolic mission among our member institutions in all aspects of academic life, and the communities within which our institutions operate, the Assembly also focused on aligning the network Operational Plan 2026–2027 with the four global priorities — student well-being, artificial intelligence, democracy, and environmental justice — set during the IAJU General Assembly in Bogotá (July 2025). As part of these next steps, the presidents agreed to appoint delegates from their institutions to the IAJU task forces, beginning with representatives who will join the new global Task Force on Student Well-Being (Mental and Spiritual). Joseph Christie, SJ, IAJU Secretary, presented the key outcomes of Bogotá and emphasised the vital role of regional collaboration within the global Jesuit university network. Dalibor Renić, SJ, President of the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP), also attended, underlining the challenges and the Society of Jesus's new apostolic planning in Europe, as well as the expected contributions of Jesuit higher education institutions to the apostolic mission. The next Kircher General Assembly will be held at Ignatianum University in Krakow on July 6–7, 2026.

From October 21–23, 2025, the Kircher Network hosted the second edition of Canisius Formation: Identity and Mission in Jesuit Higher Education at the historic Sanctuary of Loyola in Azpeitia (Bilbao) The second edition gathers 17 participants from 10 Kircher institutions across eight countries. This year's program once again brought together faculty and staff from across the network to explore the core dimensions of Jesuit identity, spirituality, and mission in higher education. The 2025 edition included 17 participants from 10 Kircher member institutions across eight countries — Sweden, Belgium, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. Among them, 8 were faculty members and 9 were administrative leaders. The group's diversity — with 10 women and seven men — fostered a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences throughout the sessions. We were delighted to welcome back Gonzalo Villagrán, SJ, and Pep María, SJ, who designed the program and, together with José de Castro, SJ, Philip Geister, SJ, and Susana Di Trolio, delivered the content of this year's formation experience. We also extend our gratitude to Ángel Benítez, SJ, for his insightful presentation, which greatly enriched the participants' experience; to Lidia Fioravanti for her excellent contribution to the organising committee and moderation; and to Isabella Fontana (Université de Namur) for joining Lidia in leading the engaging introductory icebreaker session. Rooted in the spirit of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the Canisius Formation continues to strengthen our shared mission and foster collaboration among Jesuit universities in Europe and beyond. As part of the follow-up phase, the group will meet again for two webinars on Ignatian Leadership: November 5, 2025 | 18:00–19:30 (CET) — Professors Ramón García and Esteban Mogas (ESADE Business School) November 12, 2025 | 16:00–17:30 (CET) — Fr. David McCallum, SJ (Discerning Leadership Program).

The fourth Pedro Arrupe Summer School in Forced Migration took place at Campion Hall, University of Oxford, in July 2025. The course was led by Sister Maryanne Loughry RSM (PhD), Fr Rampe Hlobo SJ, Professor Lisa Sowle Cahill, Nacho Eguizábal, and Fr Gregoire Catta SJ. It aimed to provide a formative experience for Jesuits and their partners in accompanying, serving, and advocating for forcibly displaced people. The two-week programme brought together thirteen Jesuits in formation and three religious sisters from diverse national origins and ministry contexts, many of whom have engaged in work with Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) or other Jesuit social ministries. You can watch a short video about the event on the Jesuits in Britain YouTube channel here or by clicking the video link below. Participants explored the global situation of forced displacement through social scientific insights, theological reflection on the Church’s response, Ignatian spirituality, and Catholic social teaching. Dr Hiba Salem, Pedro Arrupe Research Fellow in Forced Migration Studies, said: “What I've loved about the Pedro Arrupe Summer School is that it really brings people [together] who have been actually very much embedded in their communities for a long time from different contexts in the world.” The curriculum covered topics such as the drivers of displacement, international protection frameworks including the Global Compact on Refugees and Migration, and barriers to protection within national policies. Participants engaged with lectures, group discussions, presentations, films, and excursions. The programme included expertise from JRS leaders, Jesuit scholars at Campion Hall, the Oxford Refugee Studies Centre, Boston College faculty, and Jesuit universities worldwide. Fr Marco Tulio Gómez SJ, Director of Fe y Alegría Panama, said: “In Panama, right now, we are serving a group of deportees from the United States—none of them is from Latin America. They come from countries in Asia and Africa. So, it gives us a sense, not only of globality, but of how necessary it is to instil human dignity. You know, we're all created equal. We're all children of God. So for me, it's important to bring all that together, and also to inform and communicate, because there are good news, also, of things that Jesuits are doing in the world.” Dr Maryanne Loughry RSM, Associate Director of Jesuit Refugee Service Australia and Research Professor at Boston College, said: “The Summer School in Enforced Migration has enabled many of the JRS people to come here to Campion Hall... to live here and study, looking at how we work pastorally, how we are with the refugees, the knowledge we bring from the field to the study, so it's not just purely academic, but we bring it with a sense of knowing some of the populations and having ourselves being transformed by that experience of working in some very harsh settings.” The international makeup of participants provided a rich exchange of experiences and challenges. On successful completion of the course, including a final reflection paper, participants received a certificate from Campion Hall and JRS. The Pedro Arrupe Summer School forms part of Campion Hall’s Jesuit commitment to justice and solidarity with forcibly displaced persons worldwide, in partnership with JRS and Boston College. They also offer a Research Fellow in Forced Migration Studies. Read more about this year’s summer school here.

In October, Father General Arturo Sosa SJ, visited various Jesuit locations in Germany. During the week of October 5-12, Fr. Sosa traveled to Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Munich, and St. Blasien in the Black Forest. He was a guest at the Jesuit institutions in these cities, including the Sankt Georgen Graduate School of Philosophy and Theology and the Jesuit Future Workshop in Frankfurt, the international aid organization Jesuits Worldwide and the Ukama Center for Socio-Ecological Transformation in Nuremberg, the Munich School of Philosophy, and St. Blasien College with its boarding school in the Black Forest. “This week’s encounters invite us to further develop our mission in light of our times and their needs,” said Father Thomas Hollweck SJ, Provincial of the Jesuits in Central Europe and host of Father Sosa. “At the same time, this visit makes us aware that we are part of a worldwide religious order, a community in which Jesuits and lay people are on a common mission in the name of Jesus.” The topics of the meetings and discussions were based on the Universal Apostolic Preferences, the worldwide priorities of the Jesuits: They show paths to God, stand alongside the disadvantaged, accompany young people on their journey to a hopeful future, and advocate for the preservation of creation.   

Father General has appointed Fr Bernhard Bürgler as the new Regional Assistant for Central and Eastern Europe. He takes over from Fr Tomasz Kot who has served in this role for the past years. Fr. General's Regional Assistants are advisers to Fr. General who accompany the life and development of a set of Provinces, usually connected geographically or culturally. In this sense the Provinces that conform the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials in Europe and the Near East are distributed in three Assistancies: Western Europe (EOC), Southern Europe (EMR), and Central Europe (ECO). Born in 1960 in Lienz, Austria, Fr Bürgler joined the Society of Jesus in 1991 after studying philosophy and theology. Following his novitiate in Innsbruck, he earned a doctorate in pastoral theology from the University of Innsbruck and completed training as a psychoanalyst. Ordained a priest in 1997, he served as a spiritual director at the Collegium Canisianum and worked as a psychotherapist in Innsbruck. In 2004, he completed his Tertianship in Australia. From 2004 to 2008, he was the director of the retreat centre Haus Gries in Germany. After that, he headed the department of spirituality and exercises at Kardinal König Haus in Vienna from 2008 to 2014. From 2014 to 2021 he served as Provincial of the Austrian Province, and from 2021 to 2024 as Provincial of the newly established Central European Province. After a sabbatical year, he returned to Innsbruck, where he has been active in spiritual accompaniment and retreat counselling. Fr Bürgler takes up his new role as Regional Assistant for Central and Eastern Europe on 1 July 2026.

The Jesuit presence in Türkiye consists of a Jesuit community in Ankara focused on helping the local Church by offering formations, retreats and publications and fostering ecumenical dialogue with Eastern Christians and with Protestants, and interreligious dialogue with Muslims. This community is under the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials since 2019. This presence is this year celebrating its 25 years. Jean-Marc Balham, the Superior of the community, shares with us some reflections: As on October 5th we celebrated 25 years of Jesuit presence in Ankara, on the patron saint's day of our church, which our Assumptionist predecessors had dedicated to Saint Theresa of Lisieux, we remembered with gratitude all the companions who contributed to this adventure: Tom Michel and Christian Troll (who both prepared it), Patrice Jullien de Pommerol (the founder), Herman Pillaert, John Lucal, Jean-Marc Balhan, Felix Körner, Oliver Borg Olivier, Antuan Ilgıt, Paolo Bizzeti, Arij Roest-Crollius, Alexis Doucet, Paul Brouwers, Stefan Hengst, Michael McGuckian and Changmo Cho. We also didn't forget our major superiors who accompanied us throughout this adventure, either from PRO (Jan Bronsveld, Fadel Sidarouss, Victor Assouad, Dany Younes) or from JCEP (Franck Janin and Dalibor Reniç). Nor did we forget Michael Zammit who, after managing our finances, continues to accompany us with his kind attention from Beirut. Of course, at the dawn of this adventure, it was Fr. Hans Kolvenbach's decision that was decisive, and we were very grateful to him for this. His visit to Ankara in 2006 was then followed by that of Fr. Adolfo Nicolas in 2011: we are now awaiting that of Fr. Arturo Sosa in a year's time for the same occasion, in October 2026. All those years, our presence in Turkey took different shapes, from interreligious dialogue to pastoral work and JRS. Currently, our main work is the service of the Catholic Church in Turkey and the dialogue with Turkish society. The future is now open: two young companions have been touched by our mission and may join us in a few years, God willing, and collaboration is now being sought with JCAM. On the picture, you can find the Jesuits presents at the celebration of the 25th anniversary at Saint Theresa Church in Ankara, that is, from left to right: Fr. Michael McGuckian (HIB), Fr. Jean-Marc Balhan (EOF), Mons. Antuan Ilgıt (from Iskenderun, EUM) and Fr. Alexis Doucet (EOF). Our Korean companion Changmo Cho (KOR), currently in tertianship in Bikfaya, is unfortunately absent of it. Once again, we thank each and every one of the direct contributors to that mission but also those who sent us, welcomed and accompanied us and praid for us during all those years, for the stone you have added to the edifice of this work: may the Lord accompany you in the mission that is yours today. Fr. Jean-Marc Balhan SJ

First vows, last vows, diaconal ordinations and priestly ordinations.