During a three day conference Jesuits and friends took on a common discernment on the future of the Apostolic Works of the Society in Flanders and The Netherlands. There were 24 Jesuits participants, of whom 19 younger than 65, and nine Partners in Mission who work for the Jesuits or serve on the board of a Jesuit work.  

More than one year ago reflection had started on the desirability of continued Jesuit support for more than thirty Ignatian works in the Region ELC.  Each apostolic work had been asked to state clearly what they expect from the Jesuits in terms of manpower, finances and formation. Likewise they should state what they contribute to the SJ in its mission and in fields like promotion of vocations and support of other Jesuit ministries. All participants had read the answers in advance, they prayed individually and in group over possible outcomes, and weighed arguments pro and con of concrete proposals. 

It were three days of information exchange, trust  building and a growth of appreciation of each other's work and motivation. The consult of the Region will give further  advice and the Regional Superior is expected to come with decisions during the summer.