News

In early October, delegates from various provinces and regions convened at Kampoeng Media in Yogyakarta for a transformative four-day conference focused on the Jesuit social apostolate. Keynote speaker Julie Edwards set the stage by discussing the evolution of social ministry within the Society of Jesus, referencing the establishment of Global Ignatian Advocacy Networks since a pivotal 2008 meeting in Spain. Fr. Benny Juliawan explored the implications of the digital economy, highlighting both the opportunities and precarious conditions it creates for workers, while JCAP President Fr. Jun Viray emphasized the need for greater collaboration among ministries and external organizations. The conference concluded with participants engaging in reflective exercises, yielding powerful metaphors—such as bridges and gardens—to represent their collective vision for the future of JCAP’s social ministries.

Pope Francis reminds us that "God walks with His people"—a powerful theme for this year's World Migrants Day. We are called to walk in solidarity with those on the move, sharing their hopes, challenges, and courage. Let us not turn away!

The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT) is an initiative that strives for an international agreement to phase out fossil fuel while ensuring a just global transition for workers, communities, and countries.

We're sharing here the Report presented by the Environmental Sciences for Social Change (ESSC) led by our dear colleague Pedro Walpole, who has been the leader of Ecojesuit since 2017. We would especially like to thank Pedro and the ESSC Team for the enormous and extraordinary work done in the animation of the GIAN of Integral Ecology during the last seven years; the report is an impressive display of his creativity and, above all, of their passion for the sacred gift of Creation. As Pedro himself expresses in the presentation of the report, we pray that: “may these times and events that we have all shared be a source of great consolation, courage and hope; Jesus walks with us!” We count on your collaboration and participation in GIAN - Integral Ecology.

The Season of Creation, celebrated from September 1 to October 4, unites Christians worldwide in prayer and action to protect the Earth. This year’s theme, "To hope and act with Creation," calls for faith-driven hope and concrete actions in response to environmental crises. The season also supports the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, advocating for a halt to new fossil fuel projects. Resources for participation are available online.

The Justice in Mining network has advanced efforts to protect communities affected by mining. Key achievements include stronger collaboration among 22 Jesuit institutions, documenting crucial case studies and advocating for corporate accountability as demand for critical minerals grows.

The Central American Province of the Society of Jesus marks the first anniversary of the Nicaraguan government's confiscation of the Central American University, condemning the violation of education rights and academic freedom. They call for an end to repression, the release of political prisoners, and a return to dialogue and justice.

Stan Swamy Day in Viragalur was a moving tribute to a man who devoted his life to justice and the upliftment of the marginalized.

The GIAN - EcoJesuit Core Group met in Lusaka, Zambia from 8 to 12 July. Jesuit delegates from South Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa - Madagascar, the president of JCAM, the secretary of SJES, the current coordinator of EcoJesuit, and other collaborators from Kenya, Madagascar and Zambia were present.