On Friday, June 27th, Jesuits and lay collaborators from the Brussels-based works of the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP) gathered at the St. Benedict Community for an evening of fellowship and celebration. Colleagues from JCEP, JRS-Europe, JESC, the Chapel for Europe, and the team of religion teachers at the European Schools were joined by family members to enjoy a delicious meal. Due to the exceptionally high temperatures, the traditional barbecue was replaced by a meal prepared indoors, allowing everyone to spend the evening together in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

The annual gathering provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships across the different Jesuit ministries in Brussels and to celebrate the shared mission that unites them. As many Jesuits and collaborators prepare to embark on their summer commitments, the evening offered a fitting moment to exchange good wishes before the holiday period.

The occasion also served to thank Marcin Firmanty SJ, who worked as a religion teacher at the European Schools and collaborated at the Chapel for Europe and Benoît Willemaers SJ, who was the secretary for European Affairs at JESC, as they conclude their mission in Brussels. On behalf of those gathered, Bernd Günther SJ, Superior of the St. Benedict Community and Director of the Chapel for Europe, together with Filipe Martins SJ, Director of JESC, expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the dedication, generosity, and faithful service that both have offered over the last years. Their commitment, collaborative spirit, and friendship have enriched the Jesuit works in Brussels, and they were warmly wished every blessing and success as they begin this new chapter of their mission.

Our sincere thanks go to the St. Benedict Community for its generous hospitality and for once again providing such a warm and welcoming setting for this cherished annual gathering.