Jesuits in Europe

GERMANY
Canisius College Berlin Celebrates 100th Anniversary and Inaugurates Pedro Arrupe School. On May 31, 2025, Canisius College in Berlin celebrated its 100th anniversary with a service at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and a festive program. At the same event, the College officially inaugurated the Pedro Arrupe School, an integrated secondary school for students with refugee and migration backgrounds. The celebration was attended by Church and political leaders, including Cardinal Michael Czerny, Jesuit Provincial Fr. Thomas Hollweck SJ, Rector Fr. Marco Mohr SJ, and Berlin’s Finance Senator Stefan Evers (CDU). Cardinal Czerny called on the Jesuit community to promote social justice and inclusion, especially for society’s most vulnerable. Founded in 1925, Canisius College has evolved from an elite boys' school into a diverse, coeducational institution with nearly 1,000 students. The Pedro Arrupe School, started in 2019, reflects the College’s commitment to social responsibility and education rooted in compassion and justice. The centenary’s theme, “Giving hope – opening doors – taking responsibility,” encapsulates the College’s ongoing mission as it enters its second century.
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
From the 17th to the 21st of June, the Jesuit Social Centres in Europe gathered for the Ignatian Social Thinking week, a revival of earlier Eurojess meetings. Along with Ignatian partners such as CLC (Christian Life Community) or universities, about 30 Jesuits and lay collaborators came together to exchange and deepen their understanding of a common mission. The theme of the meeting was the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’. The aim of the meeting was threefold. Firstly, to take the pulse of the current situation in ecology politics, the state of mobilisation and the rise of opposing forces. To this end, we welcomed Eamon Ryan, former leader of the Green Party in Ireland and former Minister for the Environment and Transport (2020-2025). He spoke about the origins of his commitment, how he witnessed the development of ecological awareness and, while noting the current downturn, outlined the places where support is still present and where to press for action. This overview was then enriched by a sharing of experiences by the various centres (8 centres present!), which presented, in the form of workshops and case studies, one or other initiative they developed along the lines of Laudato Si’. These workshops covered a wide range of topics: the launch of neighbourhood gardens, various formation initiatives aimed at young adults, or the Future Generations Initiative. Finally, the meeting was an opportunity for the centres to share one or other future initiative. Alongside these three main aims, the meeting also provided an opportunity to discover the Châtelard eco-centre, under the guidance of Xavier de Bénazé. As core elements of the final evaluation of the meeting, participants spoke of the importance of learning about different realities and experiences, sharing good practices and initiatives, and a renewed sense of common mission among teams. Benoit Willemaers SJJESC Secretary for European Affairs
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
Organised by the HEST Cluster on Secularization, this international Conference on Secularity, Religion and the Postsecular Era, took place on June 12–13, 2025, at Universidad Loyola Andalucía – Córdoba Campus. Scholars from Europe gathered to examine the evolving roles of religion and spirituality in modern society. Highlights included keynote lectures from Prof. Jesús Conill Sancho (University of Valencia) and Prof. Grace Davie (University of Exeter), as well as interdisciplinary panels on philosophy of religion, postsecular politics, Jesuit education, and cultural pluralism. The event marked a key milestone in the network’s ongoing exploration of secular and spiritual paradigms in higher education.
WORLD
Every year, the delegates for communications from the six Conferences of the Society of Jesus meet for about a week to reflect on their mission, explore new frontiers in communication, and strengthen their collective vision for advancing this important work of the Society. Following the annual tradition, the delegates gathered in Rome from 17-20 June this year. Rafael Silva, represented JCEP in this meeting The enriching week began with a prayerful overview, allowing the delegates to assess their roles in the last year from both personal and institutional viewpoints. Sessions during the week touched on the role of communications in promoting vocations, practical applications of the use of artificial intelligence (AI), the formation of mission partners, the mission of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, the Jesuit Refugee Service and promoting the mission of communicating hope during the Jubilee Year 2025. During the session on promoting vocations, Fr Mark Ravizza led the communications delegates on an overview of the number of Jesuits in the Society and the importance of “sending workers to the vineyard”. He stressed that the work of promoting vocations is part of “our way of proceeding” and a substantive part of the life-mission of every Jesuit, as well as all those with whom we collaborate on mission. In this light, everyone is called to rekindle a culture of vocation promotion, particularly those involved in the mission of communicating. He asked three questions to guide the work of the delegates: How do we want to be present in today’s digital world? What images convey our Jesuit and Ignatian vocation? Where is our deepest hope, and how can communications departments help to promote this? A special session with Father General Arturo Sosa on the last day of the meeting provided an opportunity for questions, dialogue, and shared wisdom, reinforcing the vision and challenges that lie ahead for global communications within the Society. Fr Sosa underlined the importance of growing in the depth of our communication in view of nourishing a universal vision. He invited the delegates to also work towards moving from multiculturality to interculturality in their communication, considering also the multigenerational nature of the Society. He stressed that quality communication is vital for the synodal dimension of the Church. Father General also invited communications offices to promote collaboration and networking among ministries and sectors, transcending even Regional, Provincial and Conference borders. He announced that he has created a Commission on social media and AI whose task is to discern the appropriate use of these rapidly evolving instruments and smart technologies in carrying out our life-mission according to the manner of proceeding of our institute. While each event in the 4-day meeting was overall very enriching, one moment stood out above the rest – participating in the General Audience with Pope Leo XIV at St Peter’s Square in the Vatican. The Pope’s message resonated deeply, encouraging everyone to continue their efforts in bringing the faith closer to God’s people – a mission that communicators can contribute towards. The delegates also seized the opportunity provided by the meeting in Rome to embark on a pilgrimage through the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica. Walking through the Holy Door, one of the spiritual practices of pilgrims throughout this holy year, is a moment of spiritual renewal; it is also a physical act that signifies moving from one state to another, embracing transformation, grace, and the Christian hope that this Jubilee Year invites us to embrace. As the communications delegates departed Rome at the end of the meeting, their task ahead is clear: to use communication not as a mere tool, but as a force for connection, vocations promotion, formation, and evangelization. This idea will inspire the next article, podcast, video, social media post, or documentary, carrying with it the hope that the message of faith may reach the hearts of those that need it the most. As Msgr. Lucio Ruiz, the Secretary for the Dicastery of Communications for the Vatican, reminded the participants during his presentation on communicating hope, “when there is hope in our words, there is space for God to reach others”.

Search articles

Finding God

BELGIUMFRANCE
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Laudato si’ encyclical, Prie en chemin presents a new podcast: Pilgrimage at the Rhythm of Creation. This two-hour audio journey, designed to be listened to while walking, invites us to travel through the 4.6 billion years since the Earth’s formation, all under the gaze of God. Each second of walking corresponds to one million years of our planet’s history. The 17 stages of the pilgrimage are enriched with scientific insights and meditative reflections on the Word of God. This deep dive into the scientific narrative of time inspires awe and wonder at everything we know about our planet’s story. The Prie en chemin team developed this journey based on an idea by Xavier de Bénazé SJ, with Olivier Dewavrin SJ and Alexandre Masson SJ, inspired by the “deep time walk,” a scientific exercise created at Schumacher College in England. This innovative format allows listeners to be guided by the audio and to experience the walk as a prayerful meditation. It is a transformative experience — one to be lived deeply and shared widely: https://prieenchemin.org/parcours-spirituels/112/
SLOVAKIA
On June 13, 2025, a moving ceremony was held in Trnava to commemorate Father Emil Krapka SJ, a Jesuit priest renowned for his steadfast faith and courageous ministry during the oppressive communist regime in Slovakia. The event brought together Jesuit brothers, friends, and community members who wished to honor Father Krapka’s remarkable commitment to preserving religious life and spiritual freedom in a time of severe repression. Despite the challenges posed by the communist authorities, Father Krapka remained a beacon of hope and resilience, ministering discreetly but tirelessly to the faithful. At the heart of the ceremony was the unveiling of a memorial plaque at the Jesuit Residence in Trnava, where Father Krapka lived and quietly carried out his pastoral and educational work. The plaque stands as a lasting tribute to his unwavering dedication to sustaining the Church’s presence and values when open practice of faith was severely restricted. Speakers recalled how Father Krapka’s ministry was marked by courage, discretion, and deep compassion. He provided spiritual guidance, supported underground religious communities, and nurtured faith among young people and families in a climate where religious expression was often criminalized. His example of steadfastness and hope under persecution continues to inspire both Jesuits and laypeople today, reminding all of the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. The ceremony concluded with a prayer service invoking Father Krapka’s legacy and calling the community to continue building a society rooted in justice, freedom, and spiritual integrity—values he championed throughout his life.
UNITED KINGDOM
At 12 noon, the Angelus tolled across Oxford Road, coinciding with the Feast of the Dedication of the Church—a fitting moment to celebrate the return of the bells to their rightful place in the life of the community. You can watch a short video of the bells ringing here. Fr Phil Harrison SJ, Chaplain at the Universities of Manchester Catholic Chaplaincy, said: “Everyone at Holy Name is very excited that the bells are ringing out once again across the university campus. They will help to draw more and more young people into the Church, to experience the silence and beauty of the interior where they can have a gentle encounter the Lord.” The joyful sound signals the near completion of a year-long restoration project on the church tower, made possible with the financial support of the Jesuits in Britain, alongside the generous contributions of parishioners and several heritage grant bodies. An earlier story highlighted progress on the church’s restoration, with scaffolding revealing beautiful architectural details not easily seen from the ground. The final phase of work, due to conclude later this month, will include structural finishing touches and the long-awaited illumination of the crucifix facing Oxford Road, flanked by the figures of John and Mary. In a creative addition to the restoration project, a student competition at the Universities of Manchester invited young composers to write new bell tones and peals. Once fully operational, the bells will mark the hours across the university campus, ring the Angelus daily at noon, and sound special peals to mark liturgical celebrations and significant moments in the life of the parish. Originally installed in 1931 following the completion of the tower, the bells were described at the time as giving “a voice to proclaim [the Church’s] message in the music of the Church.” A later restoration in 1977 was led by Brother Richard Hackett SJ, who documented the story behind each of the sixteen bells—each one funded by individual parishioners or parish groups, and each dedicated to Jesus, Mary, or one of the saints. In 1995, a new mechanism was installed to allow a wider variety of tunes to be played  
RUSSIA
On Sunday, 1 June 2025, the Jesuit parish of Our Lady Queen of the Rosary in Tomsk, Siberia, celebrated its rich multicultural identity with a special “Mass of All Nations.” The event highlighted the parish’s vibrant diversity, uniting members from over 30 countries in a joyful expression of unity in faith. The celebration was led by parish priest Fr. Wojciech Ziółek, SJ, who shared on social media: “Today in Tomsk, we held the Mass of All Nations. Our parish is multicultural (30 countries!), colourful, multilingual, ecumenical, and deeply united. We celebrated unity in diversity and diversity in unity—that is, Catholicity!”. The Jesuit community in Tomsk reflects this diversity. Jesuits serving there hail from Armenia, the United States, and Poland, and include members of both Latin and Eastern Catholic rites. This multicultural makeup embodies the universal nature of the Church, embracing various cultures and contexts. The parish is also home to the only Catholic school in Russia, further emphasizing its commitment to intercultural and interfaith dialogue. The celebration in Tomsk stands as a testament to the Jesuits’ mission of fostering unity through diversity, resonating with the Society of Jesus’s global commitment to inclusivity and community.

Promoting Justice

EUROPE & NEAR EAST
Brussels, 24 June 2025 — On this day, JRS Europe had the privilege of joining civil society actors, faith-based organizations, and frontline workers at the Voices of Hope event – a powerful gathering that amplified the lived experiences and aspirations of migrants and refugees in Europe. Hosted in Brussels, the event spotlighted inspiring initiatives supporting the integration and empowerment of displaced people, especially women and children. The event opened with a deeply personal reflection from Raymond A. Parcon, representing JRS Europe. He spoke not only as a member of JRS but also as someone who has lived the journey of migration firsthand. His words underscored the shared humanity that binds us all and the vital role of accompaniment in JRS’s mission. The Mariama Project: Empowering Young Women on the Margins Sr. Marie Vaillant, FMA, from the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco Ganshoren, presented the Mariama Project – a shining example of compassionate and targeted support for young migrant women. Aimed at girls aged 17 to 21, the project responds to the alarming vulnerabilities faced by migrant minors, particularly those at risk of modern-day slavery, exploitation, and social exclusion. Through six dedicated places in the Ganshoren boarding school, young women are provided not just shelter, but holistic care – including psychosocial support from the Umoya collective, educational guidance, and pathways toward work or further study. Sr. Vaillant highlighted the strength and courage of the girls in the program and called for greater attention to gender-specific migration challenges. The School of Peace: Building Bridges Through Education Mr. Natan Phuati Nzita, from the Community of Sant’Egidio, shared the impact of their School of Peace Project, which offers free, non-formal education to children, many of whom come from migrant or disadvantaged backgrounds. With warmth and conviction, Nzita described how the initiative fosters a culture of peace, where friendship, respect, and intercultural exchange flourish. In a time when children are often the most affected by forced migration, the School of Peace becomes a vital sanctuary. Language support, cultural engagement, and after-school tutoring help migrant children find a sense of belonging while improving their academic and social skills. The Livelihood Project: Restoring Dignity and Confidence Mr. Vincenzo Chiaiese, also from JRS Europe, closed the presentations with insights from JRS’s Livelihood Project, which supports socio-economic inclusion for refugees and migrants across Europe. Drawing from the latest regional report, Chiaiese highlighted best practices and shared stories of resilience and innovation from diverse local contexts. By centering the voices of those directly affected and promoting community-driven solutions, the Livelihood Project reinforces the importance of empowerment through meaningful work and education.  
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
Last week’s SB62 Bonn Climate Meetings, the annual UNFCCC climate conference held each June, marked a significant first: the Society of Jesus sent a coordinated delegation to participate in this crucial event, which serves as the halfway point between COPs. This pioneering Jesuit delegation, including Colm Fahy (JESC, Brussels), Cristóbal Emilfork SJ (University of California), Jörg Alt SJ (Jesuiten Weltweit, Germany), Filipe Martins SJ (JESC, Brussels), and Richard Solly (Jesuit Missions, UK), attended not only to observe and actively participate in preparation for COP30, but also to advocate for the three key calls of the Jesuits for Climate Justice COP30 campaign. The group was supported by the remote participation of Roberto Jaramillo SJ and Daniela Alba, respectively Secretary and Advocacy Officer from the global Social Justice and Ecology Secretariat, and delivered on a daily basis personal reflections, highlights of the negotiations and videos with partners.  The concluding sentiment of the event was that whilst some progress was made, much more remains to be done. SB62 proved to be a challenging conference, with many key climate justice demands largely deferred to COP30. While some progress was made on Adaptation indicators and a draft text emerged for Just Transition, the Global Stocktake saw limited advancement due to deep divisions. Crucially, climate finance remained a major sticking point, with calls for debt cancellation and a robust Loss and Damage Fund facing resistance, leaving significant work for COP30. Overall, the conference highlighted the urgent need for global leaders to take decisive action and adequately fund poorer countries for a sustainable transition. It was obvious to observers like the Jesuit delegation that many powerful countries, such as Saudi Arabia, which have much to lose from climate legislation, used the conference as a means to delay decisions. The conference also grappled with many ‘elephants in the room’, with climate migration being a prime example. This was one of the significant observations of the participants of a side event on Climate Change and Climate Migration organised by the Jesuit group, which powerfully demonstrated a unity amongst attendees. In the event, experts Dr. Samuel Zewdie Hagos and Dr. Jörg Alt SJ led a discussion highlighting how the media often misrepresents extreme weather events in the Global South as “natural disasters,” obscuring their root causes. They also underscored the mutual interest of both the Global North and South in bold climate responses. Climate migration, a seldom-addressed but increasingly urgent issue already displacing millions, sparked a lively discussion (whose raw footage can be seen here, with both presentations available here and here), reinforcing the Catholic Church’s commitment to advocating for marginalised communities. The Jesuits for Climate Justice presence in Bonn in 2025 might be viewed as a ‘drop in the ocean’ in terms of our impact on climate activism, but the presence of church actors, and indeed the Jesuits, should not be underestimated. At a time when populism and other factors are delaying measures on climate change, it is more important than ever that faith groups come together to push the moral imperative of protecting our common home and the poorest who suffer most from this crisis. Colm FahyJESC Ecology Advocacy Officer 
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
In a world still marked by displacement, uncertainty, and deep inequality, the mission of the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in Europe remains clear and urgent: to accompany, serve, and advocate for refugees and forcibly displaced people. As crises evolve and new challenges emerge, our presence—across borders, languages, and cultures—remains rooted in compassion, commitment, and concrete action. Throughout 2024, our teams across Europe walked alongside more than 198.000 individuals seeking protection, stability, and dignity. This accompaniment took many forms: legal support, pastoral care, mental health services, education in emergencies, peacebuilding, and the simple but radical act of listening. Behind these actions is a vibrant network of nearly 800 professional staff and over 6,900 volunteers, active in 241 locations across 23 European countries. With the help of partners, donors, and communities, our country offices invested over €29 million to respond to needs and uphold the rights of those who are too often left on the margins. For full details on numbers and project highlights: Download THE 2024 ANNUAL REPORT.
WORLDEUROPE & NEAR EAST
The climate crisis can no longer be denied. Its most severe effects are felt in countries where extreme weather devastates communities, rising sea levels threaten coastal regions, and ecosystem collapse jeopardizes livelihoods. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report warns of “a rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all.” This crisis demands immediate and decisive actions, and COP30 is a critical event for the global community in addressing the climate emergency. In the spirit of the Jubilee of Hope, we call upon all people of goodwill to advocate for a just and sustainable future, urging delegates to COP30 and governments to: Cancel the debt of underdeveloped countries and strengthen the Loss and Damage Fund. Unjust and unpayable debts from underdeveloped nations should be cancelled so that resources could be free for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, and a grant-based Loss and Damage Fund must provide adequate resources to address the devastating impacts of climate change. Accelerate agreements and set targets for a Just Energy Transition to reduce CO2 emissions. A Just Energy Transition should consider historical responsibilities, respect Indigenous rights, value nature, and prioritize sustainable livelihoods over profit-driven models. Set concrete targets to build a Global Food Sovereignty System based on agroecological practices. A system that promotes culturally adapted modes of production, transformation, distribution, and food consumption, applying ecological principles to agriculture. The COP process is imperative for making international progress on the climate crisis. Pope Francis stated, “It is a matter of establishing global and effective rules that can permit ‘providing for’ this global safeguarding” (LD, 43). Let us heed this call and work together to build a world where all “may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

Youth & Media

SPAIN
On June 12, 2025, nearly 40 leaders from the Jesuit educational network Educsi gathered in Madrid for a day of formation and reflection led by Fr. Johnny Go SJ. The session, which also included Roberto Padilla SJ, president of FLACSI, brought together school directors, pastoral coordinators, educators, administrators, and communications staff from Jesuit institutions. The day began with a crucial question: “How to lead in times of superficiality and stress?” Fr. Go introduced the fundamentals of Ignatian leadership, emphasizing leadership as a service to both community and mission. Participants explored various leadership styles, focusing especially on the figure of the missionary leader—someone who listens, reflects, discerns, and inspires their community with a clear sense of purpose. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the core Ignatian tool of discernment, with special attention given to the spiritual motions of consolation and desolation as they apply to leadership decision-making. Discernment was presented as an ideal process for making important decisions in school life, aiming to bring participants closer to God and orient actions toward the common good. The day featured a participatory methodology combining listening sessions, small group dynamics, personal reflection, and practical case studies. This approach fostered a collaborative space to build a network of Jesuit schools led through service and commitment to their shared mission. Later in the week, Fr. Go led a second formation session for about 100 educators and pedagogical leaders from the network. This session focused on the concept of “Learning by Refraction,” a practical approach to applying the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm in classrooms. Topics included personalized learning, the role of artificial intelligence, and the use of digital tools—while maintaining fidelity to Jesuit identity and mission. The session combined presentations, group work, and dialogue, highlighting Educsi’s ongoing commitment to developing an Ignatian pedagogy that is responsive to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
SPAIN
On June 30, 2025, the First Jesuit Forum was inaugurated at ICADE in Madrid, marking a milestone for Jesuit educational institutions worldwide. The event brought together 82 participants—students, educators, and leaders—from Jesuit schools and universities across multiple countries. This forum aimed to strengthen the sense of global Jesuit identity and foster a shared commitment to social justice, peace, and integral human development. The opening emphasized the importance of cultivating “citizens of the world” who are deeply rooted in Jesuit spirituality, particularly the principle of “finding God in all things.” Participants were invited to approach current global challenges with a renewed perspective shaped by Jesuit values—compassion, discernment, and active engagement in building a more just and humane society. Throughout the forum, attendees engaged in a rich program of discussions, workshops, and reflection sessions. They explored key themes such as the role of Jesuit education in promoting social transformation, how to live out the call for ecological responsibility, and the practical ways to foster solidarity and peace in their communities and beyond. The First Jesuit Forum represents a promising new tradition within the Jesuit educational network—creating a space for dialogue, inspiration, and collaboration that empowers participants to become effective agents of change in a complex, interconnected world. With this first edition, the Jesuit educational community in Spain and beyond signals its commitment to nurturing leadership grounded in faith and dedicated to service, justice, and the common good.
HUNGARY
Music, dance, exhibitions, roundtable discussions, workshops, and a spirit of joyful togetherness once again defined the Udvar Festival in Arló this June. As in previous years, the courtyard of the Jesuit Presence House came alive with locals and visitors alike—including guests from beyond the border. Organized by a dedicated team of young adult and university volunteers, in collaboration with the Jesuit Presence Program staff, the festival aims to shine a new light on Roma culture and creativity in the heart of Borsod County. Udvar Festival has become a meeting point for people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and languages, offering more than 20 varied events across two vibrant stages—located at the Jelenlét House and the Mustó Péter House. Each year sees growing attendance, with programming designed to engage all ages. Nationally recognized bands such as Góbé, Mistrzal, and Várkonyi Csibészek performed alongside local acts like the Arlói Vegyeskar, the Nőklub, and the dynamic Roma Big Band of local youth. A highlight was the Szimfolk Music Program, whose mentors—once participants themselves—guided a new generation of Roma musicians. Beyond music, the festival offered panel discussions, film screenings, art exhibitions, craft activities, and interactive workshops, creating an atmosphere rich in culture and dialogue. At the heart of the weekend was Jesuit spirituality. The festival began with a vibrant opening Mass at the Mustó Péter Community House, led by Fr. Szabolcs Sajgó SJ, who warmly involved participants of all ages. A closing thanksgiving Mass was held in the Arló church, where the unique melodies of the Gypsy liturgy echoed once again—just weeks after the visit of the Jesuit Father General in May. The 2025 edition of Udvar Festival was marked by freedom, authenticity, joy, and serenity. Children ran freely, teenagers waited nervously backstage, women tended to bubbling cauldrons, and volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes. For a few days in June, Vasút Street became Arló’s cultural main street, and visitors were given a unique window into the meaningful work of the Jesuit mission in this Roma community
POLAND
From 9–12 June, the European Centre for Communication and Culture (ECCC) in Warsaw-Falenica hosted a crisis management training session for key collaborators of bishops and religious superiors from Poland, Ukraine, Romania, Hungary, Albania, and Azerbaijan. The programme combined theory with practical experience. Following a series of expert-led lectures, participants engaged in on-camera workshop exercises simulating real-life media interactions during crises. Renowned television journalists and filmmakers—including Marta Kielczyk and Jarosław Gugała—transformed lecture halls into television studios, challenging participants to respond to tough questions in high-pressure scenarios. This training was part of an ongoing series organised at the Jesuit-run ECCC, with the support of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Aimed at bishops, major superiors, and their closest advisors, the initiative is designed to strengthen leadership capacity in times of difficulty. Upcoming sessions will focus on human resource management and fundraising. Participants also gained insight into crisis response strategies from the business sector and heard from experts in media relations and in addressing crises related to the sexual abuse of minors—an issue requiring both transparency and pastoral sensitivity.

In-depth Reflection

SWITZERLAND
The German Coordination Council of the Societies for Christian-Jewish Cooperation has announced that Prof. Dr. Christian Rutishauser SJ will be awarded the prestigious Buber-Rosenzweig Medal on March 8, 2026, in Cologne. The 2026 theme for Christian-Jewish cooperation is "Shoulder to Shoulder Together." A leading figure in Jewish-Christian dialogue in Europe and beyond, Prof. Rutishauser is a Jesuit priest and Judaic Studies professor at the University of Lucerne. His extensive academic and interreligious work spans institutions in Jerusalem, New York, and Switzerland. He has served as Provincial of the Swiss Jesuits and is currently a Vatican advisor on Jewish-Catholic relations.
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
From June 4–6, 2025, Universidad Loyola hosted the HOPE25 International Congress, titled “The Jesuit University in the 21st Century: A Project of Hope for the World.” The event brought together over 300 researchers from Jesuit universities across 32 countries, who presented more than 260 scientific contributions addressing today’s global challenges through the lenses of education, science, and faith. Organised in collaboration with UNIJES, the Kircher Network, and the IAJU, the congress emphasized the Jesuit commitment to forming hopeful, socially responsible global citizens. Participants explored topics ranging from climate justice, democracy, and spirituality to innovative pedagogies and artificial intelligence. Notable speakers such as Joseph Christie SJ, Daniel Innerarity, Alicja Gescinska, and Nancy Tuchman underscored the need for interdisciplinary research and transformative action inspired by the Universal Apostolic Preferences and the Laudato Si’ encyclical. The congress concluded with a renewed call to view higher education and university research as powerful tools to build a more hopeful, just, and sustainable future.
KYRGYZSTAN
A New Academic Initiative in Kyrgyzstan. Established last year, the Central Asia Research Institute – Faith and Reason is gaining momentum. The first edition of BISHKEK MEETINGS took place on 14–15 May. These are academic and popularisation meetings aimed at both students and young scientists. As part of the first meeting, two scientists came to Bishkek at the invitation of the Institute: Dr Kamil Wielecki from the Faculty of "Artes Liberales" at the University of Warsaw, and Dr Denis Aleksandrovich Biegcin from Lomonosov Moscow State University. The most important events took place at the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University in Bishkek and at the American University of Central Asia. The audience, which included not only students but also lecturers, heard a lecture on Christian sacred architecture. There was an interesting discussion on the contemporary anthropological challenges facing Kyrgyzstan (Dr Kamil Wielecki has been researching the culture and society of this country for many years). Controversy was inevitable. During the lectures and discussions, there were many interesting exchanges of views. This is proof of the diversity of academic and cultural perspectives. These discussions demonstrate the need for an exchange of views, which ultimately leads to the enrichment of scientific perspectives. This enriches not only the students, but also the lecturers themselves. And this is the main goal of the BISHKEK MEETINGS! It is worth remembering that the Institute is also responsible for the Summer Theological School (a three-year academic programme for lay leaders of the Church in Central Asia countries), which has been running for four years. In the summer, on the initiative of the Institute, a group of students from the Ignatianum University in Krakow will come to Kyrgyzstan to conduct an ethnographic and cultural research project promoting Kyrgyz culture in Poland. The Institute can boast its first publications (articles in academic journals), and its representatives are active participants in international conferences. Plans for the near future include the reissue of a book that was the fruit of an academic conference organised by the Society of Jesus in 2019. The publication is entitled CHRISTIANITY IN KYRGYZSTAN - history and modernity. The possibility of publishing it in English is also being considered. The BISHKEK MEETINGS series are ultimately planned to take place twice a year, in May and September. 
SPAIN
In Psychodynamics of the Ignatian Exercises, Carlos Domínguez-Morano, S.J., presents an innovative exploration of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius through the lens of modern psychological theory. This work bridges the gap between Ignatian spirituality and the field of psychodynamics, offering a nuanced understanding of how these exercises address core elements of human psychology, including guilt, desire, ambivalence, and the quest for transcendence. With a unique approach that integrates the teachings of Ignatius with insights from psychoanalysis, Domínguez-Morano illuminates the deeply transformative power of the Exercises for both spiritual growth and psychological development. This volume is an essential resource for spiritual directors, counselors, scholars of religion, and anyone interested in the intersection of spirituality and psychology. Written by a Jesuit and clinical psychologist, it provides a profound and practical guide to understanding the complex interplay of faith, psyche, and personal transformation. Get your copy here

Preparing for Mission

SYRIA
As part of her outreach to humanitarian actors and local partners, Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Mrs. Hind Kabawat, visited the Jesuit Fathers’ Monastery in Homs. She met with Fr. Murad Abou Seif, Superior of the monastery, Fr. Tony Homsi SJ, Director of the Jesuit Cultural Forum and the Dialogue for Peace project, and Fr. Emile Takyi SJ, head of the Al-Mukhalis Center, along with staff engaged in social and educational programs. The visit began with a symbolic tribute at the grave of Fr. Frans van der Lugt SJ, the Dutch Jesuit known worldwide for his dedication to peaceful coexistence in Homs. “His memory remains a living conscience for all those who strive for peace and justice,” said Minister Kabawat. Discussions focused on the monastery’s longstanding humanitarian role and the importance of cooperation between religious institutions, civil society, and government bodies—especially in supporting vulnerable communities. Minister Kabawat toured several of the monastery’s initiatives, including technical education and social care projects, praising the team’s commitment and generosity. “Humanitarian work relies on true partnership across all sectors of society,” she affirmed. A key moment of the visit was a presentation of the Dialogue for Peace project, supported by UNDP Syria. Launched in Homs, the initiative brings together participants from diverse backgrounds to promote trust and dialogue across Syrian society. The Minister voiced her full support, noting, “This project may arise from pain, but it moves toward hope—hope for the change Syria needs.” The visit was described by organizers as a powerful gesture of encouragement and a boost to the initiative’s message of unity and peace. In closing, Minister Kabawat expressed deep appreciation for the monastery’s efforts and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting such initiatives through continued collaboration.
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
On Friday, June 27th, Jesuits and lay collaborators from the works of the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP) based in Brussels, gathered for a relaxed and joyful evening at the St. Benedict Community in Brussels. Colleagues from JCEP, JRS-Europe, JESC and the Chapel for Europe came together to enjoy a delicious barbecue and an array of delightful treats. The gathering offered a wonderful opportunity to connect across different works, while also welcoming the families of those involved—fostering a deeper sense of belonging and shared mission. As many Jesuits and staff prepare for summer activities, the evening served as a cheerful send-off and a “see you after summer!” We also took this occasion to say farewell to Hermínio Rico SJ, the socius of JCEP, who will soon be leaving Brussels. JCEP President Dalibor Renic SJ shared a few words of gratitude, highlighting Hermínio’s dedicated service, generous spirit, and the valuable contributions he has made to the Conference over the years. We extend our warmest thanks to the St. Benedict Community for their generous hospitality and for creating such a welcoming and festive atmosphere.      
EUROPE & NEAR EAST
The meeting in Brussels was the last one of the outgoing Socius, Herminio Rico POR, with the new one, Gonzalo Villagrán ESP, already fully participating. But, looking just a lit bit ahead, a good chunk of time was dedicated to the coming changes of the three other Consultors. They will all finish their terms as Major Superiors next summer. So, before that, every Assistancy will have to elect its Moderator, who will, then, be proposed to Fr. General as JCEP Consultor. Transition is the word of the moment. Because of the Meeting of Major Superiors of the whole Society of Jesus next October in Rome, the usual Fall JCEP Assembly will be radically reduced to just one day, at the end of the world gathering. Not much of an agenda to prepare, hence. That freed the time for an open discussion on another coming transition: the current JCEP Apostolic Plan ends in 2026 and, in anticipation, it is necessary to start planning the new Plan. How to go at it? That was the content of two of the sessions of this Consult. There was still time for an evaluation of the last Assembly, in Bologna, and to follow-up on some of the decisions and processes coming from it. And, finally, for a careful look at the calendar of meetings, both Assembly and Consult, in the coming two years. Always looking ahead, always in transition. A heartfelt grateful farewell from those departing, best wishes for those coming in. Good transitions for all! Herminio Rico sjJCEP Socius
EUROPE
First vows, last vows, diaconal ordinations and priestly ordinations.