Father General’s Extended Council (Consiglio Allargato in Italian) met in Rome from 9 to 13 June to reflect on the contribution of the members of the Society of Jesus as “agents of hope in today’s world”. The President of JCEP, Dalibor Renić, participated in this meeting.

The Consiglio Allargato explored the different situations experienced by Jesuits and reflected on our religious life, which is guided by the hope of the risen Christ. It touched on the lived experiences of Jesuits and examined the nuanced challenges and spiritual journeys that define our missionary commitment. Inspired by the Jubilee Year 2025, when all Catholics are called to be Pilgrims of Hope, the discussions illuminated the ways in which hope in the risen Christ guides us, offering renewed perspectives on our vocation and the ever-evolving mission of the Society of Jesus in today’s world.

The 5-day Council opened with an overview of Pope Francis’ bull, Spes non Confundit, through the lens of a biblical and theological approach to our Christian hope. The Bull, which launched the ongoing Jubilee Year, invites reflection on the sources of hope that endure. It also highlights our individual mission to be ministers of hope to our communities, societies, and the whole world. Participants explored the implications of Pope Francis’ message and considered how they can embody hope in their daily lives.

The other meeting days of the Consiglio Allargato explored the Church’s role as a testimony of hope in the face of geopolitical, religious, and cultural shifts. Sessions also focused on the theme of memory – of the past and the future – and how the Church plays a key role in healing places of unrest in the world. By discussing the Church’s role in promoting hope and healing, the Consiglio gained valuable insights on how they, too, can contribute positively to the world around them.

The general discussions also explored the more concrete manifestations of hope today, elaborating upon the forms/images that hope takes, the generators of this hope, and what the character of a true “hope influencer” should be.

The last day provided the opportunity to hear about hope from different generations within the Society of Jesus. The members of the Council listened to testimonies of hope from Jesuits in studies, regency, a tertian instructor, and even the Superior of a large community that includes an infirmary.

These diverse perspectives highlighted the universal nature of hope and its transformative power in various stages of Jesuit life and ministry. Overall, the Council emphasized the importance of fostering hope within the Church as a means of promoting healing and reconciliation in a world plagued by unrest.