Spirituality ministry is central to the mission of the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP), fostering encounter with Christ through prayer and discernment. In today’s rapidly changing world, living spirituality also requires creative and original initiatives that open new spaces for experience, dialogue, and depth—allowing the Ignatian tradition to speak in fresh and meaningful ways to contemporary hearts. These initiatives are shared and reinforced at an international level through the work of the different Eurogroups of the JCEP, like the one on Youth Adult Ministry. In this context, we share with an invitation from the Croatian Province to Sail and Pray.

In our fast-paced world of constant noise, the Jesuit tradition has always cherished the Magis: the search for more depth, more connection, and a more profound encounter with the Creator. This May, The Center Ignatius invites you onto the deck of a sailboat for the first international Life at Sea non-competitive regatta, where we will sail together toward a deeper relationship with God.

From May 23rd to 30th, 2026, the stunning Adriatic coast of Croatia will become a place where we integrate three dimensions: Ignatian spirituality, sailing and ecology, creating a true pilgrimage of the heart. 

Inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato si’, the regatta is designed as a contemporary spiritual practice that celebrates our common home. Participants will engage in hands-on ecological actions, such as cleaning the Telašćica Nature Park, and immerse themselves in local culture through a traditional fishermen’s evening in Sali. Also, each day is woven together by the rhythm of the sea and the Ignatian spirit, featuring daily mass on secluded shores, guided meditations, Examen and the authentic sharing of the Magis circle under the open sky.

The journey is specifically designed for pre-formed groups who wish to share a profound and unique experience: the simplicity of life on board and the power of communal discernment. These shared moments create a vibrant tapestry of a deep human experience. 

They invite companions, parish groups and friends from across Europe to form their own crews and join this synodal journey at sea. The official language of the program is English. If you feel the call to slow down and sail into the silence of the heart, they encourage you to gather your crew and register at www.lifeatsea.org.