Organized by The Center Ignatius in Croatia from May 23 to 30, 2026, this unique program gathered 120 participants divided into 14 crews from 12 European countries. This experience appears, then, as a very good example of the possibilities of interprovincial collaboration in pastoral work. For one week, the Adriatic Sea became a floating sanctuary for a pilgrimage under sails, focusing on Ignatian spirituality, community, and ecological action.

"The vastness of the sea challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and face our attachments, while the small space on deck teaches us patience and community," noted Tvrtko Barun SJ, head of the Center Ignatius, reflecting on the success of the first international, non-competitive regatta "Life at Sea".

The event held a strong international Jesuit character. Among the participants were two notable European groups: young adults from London (Jesuit Young Adult Ministry) and a delegation from Slovakia, accompanied and spiritually guided by Martin Benko, SJ. Together with other European participants, they shared the challenges of life on deck, transforming the sea into a space for universal fellowship.

Setting sail on Pentecost Sunday, the crews integrated daily life with the Ignatian tools: morning contemplations at sunrise, bibliodrama on the shores of Lake Mir, and the Daily Examen/Magis circle prayed in the absolute silence of remote Adriatic bays. Participants practiced spiritual discernment, learning to find God in all things - from favorable winds to inner fears.

In the spirit of Laudato si’ and the Ignatian call to show love in deeds, the participants engaged in a major ecological action. In cooperation with the Telašćica Nature Park, they cleaned a protected coastal area, putting their faith into concrete care for our common home.

Building on this successful European gathering, the Center Ignatius has already announced the second edition, scheduled for May 22–29, 2027. More information you can find on lifeatsea.org or on their social media: Instagram and Facebook.