Social Ministries Gathering

24 Jun 2008

by: Sean Agniel, Provincial Assistant for Social Ministries

More than 200 Jesuits and lay colleagues gathered at Regis University June 18-22, 2008, for a Social Ministries Gathering themed “Solidarity in Christ’s Mission: Reflecting, Renewing and Responding.” The Jesuit Commission for Social and International Ministries hosted the conference, thanks to generous support from the U.S. Jesuit Provincials.

 Delegates to the conference traveled from South and Central America, Africa, Europe, India and Asia. Fr. General Adolfo Nicolás offered his regards and hopes for the gathering by way of prepared video. Also attending from the Jesuit Curia in Rome were Fr. Jim Grummer SJ, Regional Assistant for North America, and Fr. Fernando Franco SJ, Secretary for Social Justice.

 The Missouri Province was represented by 22 delegates from throughout the Province, including the Provincial and both principals from Regis Jesuit High School.

 Participants enjoyed plenary sessions on a range of topics within social ministries, including immigration, ecological outreach, and social analysis. Fr. Tom Smolich SJ, President of the U.S. Jesuit Conference, moderated a presentation and conversation on General Congregation 35. Six of the U.S. Provincials joined Fr. Smolich for a panel discussion. Missouri Provincial Fr. Tim McMahon SJ observed, “It is clear that our Jesuits and colleagues engaged in social ministries found this conference to be a source of encouragement and hope.”

 The days of prayer and reflection created an atmosphere where participants could meditate together to discern where God is moving Jesuit works and ministers in the social apostolate.

Alum Service Corps XVIII | In Memoriam: Rev. John J. Killoren SJ