SJES ROME

This is the context in which the Jesuit mission operates in Timor-Leste. We understand the importance of strengthening communities from the ground up. So we persist in reaching out to people in remote and rural areas, where intervention is most needed.

They reviewed the status of current emergencies to which the Xavier Network is responding, including those in Syria, Ukraine, Haiti, and Nepal. Much has been accomplished at the level of coordination in programming emergency and disaster response and developing standard policies such as safeguarding policies. Yet much remains to be done. They shared a commitment to cooperation and service.

In 2023, Jesuits in Britain completed a carbon audit covering all their assets. As part of the follow-up in 2024, the report 'Responding to our Carbon Footprint' prompts them, and all working with them, to reduce emissions by addressing their lifestyle choices. They aim to reach Net Zero carbon-related emissions by 2050 and, more urgently, halve those emissions by 2030.

The Migrants and Refugees Network in Asia Pacific gathered to address migrant and refugee challenges, guided by collaboration, prayer, and Ignatian spirituality principles. Discussions ranged from updates on regional migrant situations to Taiwan's progressive immigrant response, culminating in the finalization of a five-year action plan highlighting the network's dual mission of support for both migrants and its members.

Fr Eric Velandria, SJES Research and Collaboration Coordinator, shares his struggle with incarnational spirituality and the experience of celebrating Lent today: "I'm stuck on my desk as I research and scour for newsworthy social justice actions this Lent. (…) Jesus speaks, calls, and shows me the way through research on the cries of the earth and the anguish of the poor. Jesus also allows me to encounter Him, our Crucified-Risen Lord, through those who devotedly advocate for justice and reconciliation."

Addressing participants in a Vatican workshop on Indigenous and scientific knowledge, Pope Francis stresses how this worksop significantly contributes to acknowledging the great value of the wisdom of native peoples for integral and sustainable human development.

This initiative resulted from the National Dialogue for Peace, which took place in September 2023, organized by the Mexican Bishops' Conference, the Society of Jesus, and the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious of Mexico. It consists of seven key actions to improve security and strengthen the nation: the social fabric, security, justice, prisons, adolescents, governance, and human rights.

Entreculturas and Alboan launched the "Defenders of the Common Home" campaign on International Women's Day, highlighting women's crucial role in environmental defence. Marita Bosh, an advocate for Amazonian peoples' rights, emphasized women's contributions to addressing ecosocial conflicts.

The Assembly of the CPAL Network of Social Centers was held in Buga, Colombia, from February 26 to 29, 2024. From a contemplative look at reality, participants had a positive attitude towards collaboration and networking and identified six potential opportunities to articulate their common mission and horizon.

My experiences as a Timorese woman from a country with a long history of struggle for independence have shaped the way I see the world, my community, and my Timorese brothers and sisters.