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.