ROME – October 23, 2025 – For the first time in two decades, the top leaders of the Society of Jesus have convened in Rome for a pivotal 10-day meeting, aiming to chart a course for the Catholic religious order's future in a world marked by conflict, political turmoil, and rapid change.

The 3rd Meeting of Major Superiors (MMS), which began on October 17, brings together 100 Jesuits, including Provincials, Regional Superiors, and Conference Presidents from across the globe. The gathering, held at the Jesuit General Curia, is a rare moment of connection and collective discernment for men who are usually dispersed, tackling complex issues in their home regions.

In his opening address, Father Arturo Sosa, the Jesuit Superior General, warmly welcomed the participants. "I appreciate so much what they do back in their home Provinces and Regions," Sosa said. "In complex circumstances they are tackling difficult issues and bringing forward the vision of reconciliation and justice... Having all these voices together is a unique opportunity to grow in union of minds and hearts."

The diversity of the attendees underscores the global nature of the Jesuit mission. The oldest participant is 83-year-old Fr. Miguel Garaizábal of Thailand, while the youngest is 47-year-old Fr. Sebastian Sujevic from Croatia. Many arrive from areas of intense difficulty. Fr. Girish Santiago, the Regional Superior of Myanmar, noted the meeting is a vital respite. "Getting away from all that and being able to reflect with others in solidarity will be a big opportunity for me," he said.

The meeting's agenda is both spiritual and strategic. It began not with business, but with a two-day retreat personally guided by Father General, focusing the superiors on prayer and reflection before their deliberations. This spiritual foundation was seen as essential preparation before addressing the immense challenges facing the Church and the world, from global conflicts and the impact of artificial intelligence to the mission of accompanying those in extreme poverty.

A highlight of the gathering was a symbolic pilgrimage on October 19. As the sun set over Rome, over 100 Jesuits walked in a prayerful procession to St. Peter's Basilica, passing through the Holy Door as a Jubilee Year gesture of "renewal, reconciliation, and recommitment to mission."

The substantive work of the meeting in the past few days has centered on several key themes:

1. Assessing the Global Impact of the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs): A major session examined the impact of the four key mission priorities set for the Jesuits in 2019. Fr. John Dardis, SJ, reported that the UAPs—which include showing the way to God, walking with the poor, accompanying youth, and caring for our Common Home—have "had a huge impact on apostolic planning." He emphasized their "genius" lies in their universality and adaptability, allowing provinces from Africa to Vietnam to apply them to local contexts while strengthening the Society's global unity.

2. Deepening Collaboration: Midway through the meeting, the focus shifted to the essential role of mission partnership with lay people. Presenters Manuel Martinez and Fr. Seán Michaelson stressed that true collaboration is not just a practical necessity but a spiritual opportunity. "Collaboration is not a means toward an end," they argued. "Collaborating for the mission... is itself a fundamental part of that mission."

3. In-Depth Conversations on Pressing Issues: The afternoons are dedicated to small, intimate workshops where superiors delve into topics they find most urgent. These include promoting Jesuit vocations, fostering common discernment, safeguarding, living under authoritarian regimes, and the work of justice and reconciliation. A total of 43 workshops are being offered, allowing for frank discussion in the Society’s official languages.

4. The Heart of Leadership: Integrating Mission and Personal Care: A core discussion focused on the essence of Jesuit governance: "Cura Apostolica – Cura Personalis." This highlights the balance leaders must strike between stewarding the order's works (Cura Apostolica) and the personal care of each Jesuit (Cura Personalis). Fr. Mark Ravizza, SJ, the General Counsellor for Formation, explained their synergy: "Cura Apostolica cannot truly thrive without a profound commitment to Cura Personalis and vice versa." Fr. Miguel Almeida, Provincial of Portugal, added that this integrated care is "one single dynamic," essential for maintaining the spiritual vitality that underpins all apostolic work.

According to Fr. Chukwuyenum “Chuks” Afiawari, SJ, the interim Assistant for Africa and Madagascar and Communications Director for the Curia, these conversations show how leaders are grappling with a fast-changing world. "Things have changed a lot since General Congregation 36... The Society needs to keep reflecting on the signs of the times so as to respond better."

The meeting, which is the first of its kind since 2005, represents a significant step in the ongoing renewal of the nearly 500-year-old order. It seeks to embody the Ignatian ideal of a body united "in body and soul," passionately committed to bringing the Gospel to every corner of the world.

The global Ignatian family is now invited to join in prayer for the Major Superiors, asking for the clarity and guidance of the Holy Spirit as they continue their crucial work, grounded in prayer and symbolized by their step through the Holy Door.

For daily updates visit this page [ Jesuits Global MMS 2025 ]