From May 20 to 23, 2025, JECSE was represented at the annual meeting of the International Commission on the Apostolate of Jesuit Education (ICAJE) held at the Jesuit General Curia in Rome. This annual gathering brings together representatives from the six Jesuit education networks and Fe y Alegria that form the Jesuit Global Network of Schools (JGNS), along with members of the Secretariat for Education and Educate Magis. Fr. Jimmy Bartolo, SJ, the incoming Secretary of the Society of Jesus for Pre-Secondary and Secondary Education, also joined the meeting as part of the Secretariat’s handover process.

During the gathering, participants reviewed the current state of Jesuit education across the world, assessed progress on key projects, and explored new initiatives to deepen the mission and collaboration within the global network. Special attention was given to the challenges and opportunities of educating for faith in today's world as continuation of discernment process started during JESEDU-Jogja2024 Seminar. The program included also updates on ecological initiatives, alumni engagement, PCCP formation training, and Educate Magis apostolic planning.

This year’s meeting special moment was a pilgrimage in honour of the Jubilee Year. As “Pilgrims of Hope,” the participants “walked together as a Global Network” and then celebrated the Eucharist in the Cappella della Madonna delle Partorienti inside St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by a brief tour of the basilica led by Fr. Andrea Bonavita, SJ, an Italian Jesuit architect.

The encounter concluded with a Eucharist at the historical Camerette—the rooms where St. Ignatius of Loyola spent his final days. It was a very emotional moment for all of us, as it marked our final gathering with Fr. José Mesa, SJ, in his role as Secretary for Education. As he will be finishing his mission at the end of this year, we offered thanks to God for his many years of generous and dedicated service to Jesuit education worldwide.

JECSE is proud to be part of this ongoing global dialogue and commitment to forming individuals who serve with depth, justice, and hope.

The ICAJE meeting continues to be a space of discernment, dialogue, and strategic planning — always grounded in the Jesuit tradition of accompaniment and service. JECSE is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this global conversation and looks forward to continuing the journey together in mission.