Healthcare of older Jesuits and collaboration in the mission are key apostolic fields for most of the provinces in Europe. Through the work of the JCEP the different initiatives in these fields that take place in the provinces are shared and deepened. In this article, the Spanish Jesuit Province shares the highlights of their annual formation gathering for nursing staff, which brought together caregivers and Jesuits to reflect, learn, and exchange best practices in the holistic care of elderly members of the Society.

From February 13 to 15, Salamanca hosted the annual formation gathering for the nursing staff of the Spanish Province. Twenty-two participants—including nurses, nursing assistants, and Jesuits accompanying them—took part in this enriching experience.

The gathering aimed to:

• Foster knowledge of the Society of Jesus, Jesuits, and Ignatian spirituality.

• Promote community life, sharing, and exchange of experiences in caring for the elderly across the Province’s nursing facilities.

• Provide practical and spiritual formation content for participants.

The program began on Saturday with a reflective session led by José Mª Vaca, who invited participants to approach care through attentive presence, listening, and a family-like environment. Following the prayer, participants shared the main insights and resonances from their reflections in small groups.

Later, Vicente Aznar presented the key aspects of the life of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and the foundations of Ignatian spirituality, offering inspiration for both personal and professional life.

In the afternoon, Dr. Mª Carmen Pablos Hernández led a formation session on “Cognitive and Behavioral Decline in Older Adults: Insights for Humanizing Care”. This was followed by a lively discussion and a short break before a guided walking tour of Ignatian Salamanca with José R. Busto, highlighting the city’s Jesuit heritage.

On Sunday, after a brief community prayer, three Jesuits from the Salamanca community—José A. Rincón, Luis López-Yarto, and Julián Elizalde—shared personal testimonies of their faith journeys and the ways God has guided their lives. A short visit to the community’s nursing floor allowed participants to exchange “best practices” from their respective facilities.

The gathering concluded with a Eucharist, giving thanks for the mission of all those who dedicate themselves to the vital work of holistic care for the elderly.

As always, participants expressed deep gratitude to the Salamanca community for their warm welcome and generous use of their facilities.