Across Europe, the formation of Jesuits remains a vital and demanding journey, shaping men who are called to serve in a wide range of ministries with depth, freedom, and discernment. Rooted in the dynamic integration of spiritual, intellectual, human, and apostolic dimensions, Jesuit formation seeks to form not specialists from the outset, but companions in mission—capable of responding generously to the complex realities of today’s world. In a context marked by cultural diversity, secularization, institutional mistrust, and new pastoral challenges, formation also becomes a privileged space to cultivate interculturality, accountability, and a renewed sense of belonging to a universal body.

At the European level, this mission is carried forward by the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials, where collaboration across provinces enriches both the experience and vision of formation beyond the limited reality of each province, and helps Jesuits in formation to develop a more universal and European understanding of the Jesuit Charism. In this context, we spoke with János Lukács SJ, the JCEP Secretary for Formation. 

In this interview, he reflects on his personal journey, the essential elements and challenges of Jesuit formation today, and the priorities shaping its future in Europe. His perspective highlights the delicate balance between structure and personal accompaniment, contemplation and action, as well as the opportunities and tensions of forming Jesuits within an increasingly intercultural and rapidly changing world. Ultimately, his insights point to a formation that is not only rigorous, but deeply human—rooted in authenticity, discernment, and hope.

1 JCEP – To begin, could you tell us a bit about your personal background? What experiences, encounters, or questions shaped your journey into the Society of Jesus?

János Lukács SJ: Although I trained as an engineer in Budapest, a deep vocational crisis led me to volunteer in a L’Arche community in London. This experience had a profound impact on my sense of humanity and faith. My first contact with the Society of Jesus was attending Mass at the Jesuit church in Brixton, even though the idea of joining had not crossed my mind at that time.

2 – Formation is at the heart of Jesuit life. How do you understand Jesuit formation today, and how did your own experience of formation shape your vocation?

Jesuit formation seeks to bring together the human, spiritual, intellectual, and apostolic dimensions of life, enabling Jesuits to avoid being strained and dispersed by competing demands and to embrace their vocation with coherence and generosity.

I joined the Society in 1991, shortly after the collapse of communism and the reinstatement of Jesuit life in Hungary. We were fortunate to have a holy man as our novice master. Of a group of twelve novices, two of us remain in the Society to this day. Our formation focused on the fundamentals of spiritual and community life. My subsequent studies in Paris allowed me to experience the spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral richness of Jesuit life. Later, a master’s programme in spirituality in Boston enabled me to reflect on formation more systematically. I was then preparing to become a novice master.

3 – Jesuit formation is often described as long, demanding, and deeply transformative. What are its essential elements, and what makes it distinctive in the Church today?

Some praise Jesuit formation, while others say it is not sufficiently transformative. There is certainly room for improvement. The essential elements are the Spiritual Exercises, community life, mission experiences, and intellectual formation. What makes Jesuit formation distinctive is the constant interplay between contemplation and action, where each experience is discerned and deepened.

4 – How does formation prepare Jesuits to serve in different ministries—such as education, social justice, pastoral work, or intellectual life—rather than specializing too early?

A broad exposure to different ministry experiments tends to prevail over early specialisation. Moving through varied cultural, ecclesial and social contexts helps one to develop a universal outlook and the capacity to serve where the need is greatest. However, there are trade-offs. The intellectual and educational ministries, in particular, require long-term commitment rather than colourful experiences.

5 – Formation is not only academic or practical, but also deeply human and spiritual. How do you ensure that these dimensions remain central in a structured and sometimes demanding formation process?

Nothing can be “ensured”. A lot depends on the individual companion. But giving priority to spiritual direction, community life, and regular times of reflection amid academic and pastoral demands tends to help. Personal accompaniment is key in helping each Jesuit to integrate experiences at a deeper level.

6 – The Jesuit Conference of European Provincials brings together Jesuits from many countries and cultures. How does the Conference and European perspective on formation enrich it? What is the added value of such an international perspective on Jesuit formation?

The variety of perspectives, cultures, and ecclesial experiences broadens understanding and nurtures a sense of belonging to a universal body. At the same time, challenges such as alienation, loneliness, and the tendency to choose online relationships over genuine community life can increase. But it remains fascinating to discover that there is a French, a British, a Spanish, Polish or Italian way of seeing the world and interpreting our spirituality.

7 - The different crises related to the abuses in the Church generates mistrust and distance with the institution, how to treat these issues constructively in Jesuit formation?

The PCCP office at the General Curia takes a science-based approach. Safeguarding programmes introduced a long time ago can now be evaluated in terms of their actual impact. In religious communities, the most effective measures proved to be a healthy community life, trusting relationships and genuine accountability towards the superior. Therefore, creating a safe environment is not an additional obligation, but rather a natural expression of our identity. While explicit safeguarding programmes are important, simply increasing their number will not produce lasting results on its own.

8 – What are the main priorities currently shaping Jesuit formation in Europe? Are there new themes or concerns that are becoming more prominent?

Interculturality, safeguarding, affective maturity, the capacity to accompany others in an increasingly complex world, discernment in common, and collaboration with lay partners have all become priorities. Enhancing our engagement with the Constitutions and other sources to deepen the appropriation of our charism and identity has also risen among the top priorities. In my view, addressing this latter challenge is unique in that it will provide us with the key to overcoming many current weaknesses in Jesuit formation.

9 – What gives you hope when you look to the future of Jesuit formation in Europe? 

What gives me hope is the depth, generosity, and authenticity I see in many young Jesuits today.

10– Finally, what message would you like to share with young Jesuits in formation today—or with those who might be discerning a vocation?

Stay close to Christ, demand exigent formation, and know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.