Charism, Identity, and Formation: Shaping Jesuits for the Mission of Christ
The second day of the meeting of delegates focused on the theme “Charism, Identity, and Formation,” inviting participants to reflect more deeply on what it means to grow into Jesuit identity. At the heart of this identity lies the mission of the Society of Jesus: to be sent to collaborate in the reconciliation of all things in Christ.
Jesuit identity is not acquired in a single moment. Rather, it unfolds gradually through a lifelong journey of prayer, discernment, study, and service. Inspired by the vision of Ignatius of Loyola, formation is understood both as a pathway and as a process that shapes a person over time.
At the center of this journey are the Spiritual Exercises. Traditionally structured in four weeks, they guide a person through conversion, a deeper knowledge of Christ, and a generous response to God’s call. At the same time, the Exercises represent a process
that continues throughout life through practices such as contemplation, the daily Examen, and attentive discernment.
Within this journey, the role of the spiritual director is essential. Through attentive listening and accompaniment, the director helps the retreatant recognize how God is working in their life and invites them to respond with greater freedom and generosity.
Although the Spiritual Exercises are a gift to the whole Church, Jesuits are often described as “men of the Exercises.” They are therefore continually invited to draw from this spiritual source in their prayer and ministry. Each Jesuit renews this commitment through the annual thirty-day retreat of the Spiritual Exercises.
Another essential source for formation is the Constitutions of the Society of Jesus. Rather than being understood simply as a set of rules, the Constitutions serve as a spiritual guide that helps Jesuits grow in virtue, interior freedom, and availability for mission.
During the discussions, the rectors reflected more deeply on how they accompany and form the young Jesuits entrusted to them. Many shared that the new generation of Jesuits often appears more fragile and vulnerable than previous generations, facing different cultural, social, and personal challenges. This reality calls for renewed attentiveness and creativity in the way formation is carried out.
At the same time, the rectors emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Constitutions remain at the center of formation, serving as a constant reference point that guides discernment, freedom, and apostolic availability in those preparing for mission.
Two key characteristics of Jesuit formation were highlighted throughout the day: accompaniment and intellectual depth. Personal accompaniment is particularly important for young Jesuits as they navigate new challenges and vulnerabilities in today’s world. Formators are therefore called to remain attentive to the experiences, struggles, and growth of those entrusted to their care.
Participants also reflected on the realities of ministry, including the experience of solitude that young priests encounter. In this context, spiritual direction, mentorship, and supportive relationships among Jesuits become especially important along the journey of priesthood.