A few years ago, the Society of Jesus received the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAP) from Pope Francis. We are now in the second phase of their implementation. The fourth UAP — To collaborate in the care of our Common Home — has been one of the central axes of our apostolic actions and commitments. To evaluate the progress of these initiatives, the Secretariat for Social Justice and Ecology (SJES) was tasked with conducting a 2024 universal survey, the results of which highlight both the progress made and the challenges that remain.
On 22 April, World Earth Day, Father General wrote a letter to the entire apostolic body presenting the survey results and inviting us to strengthen our faith commitment to collaborate in the care of creation and thus build a more just and fraternal future.
Video by Father Roberto Jaramillo S.J.
Father Roberto Jaramillo, S.J., Secretary for Social Justice and Ecology (SJES), introduces us to the results of the UAP 4th survey. In his message, he refers to Father General Arturo Sosa’s call to join forces and resources to face ecological challenges from a position of faith. He also emphasizes that caring for creation is everyone’s responsibility and invites us to act diligently to defend and preserve the planet.
Presentation of the UAP4 Survey: Reflection on progress and challenges
The survey conducted by the SJES addresses the progress of initiatives undertaken by the Society of Jesus in relation to the care of our common home (4th PAU). Its results reflect on what has been achieved and the challenges we still face on the path towards social equity and environmental justice.
In the letter presenting the results, Father General invites us to deepen our collective commitment, emphasizing that social justice and environmental care are inseparable aspects of our Ignatian mission. Although positive, the results indicate significant challenges and areas that require urgent attention and action.
The SJES survey results are a call to action. The report and PowerPoint presentation detail the progress made in ecological justice and the persistent challenges. This material provides a detailed analysis of the actions implemented in the Society of Jesus’s different provinces and networks. It sets out the following steps to continue strengthening our commitment to the Common Home. The major superiors of each Jesuit province and region have already received the results for their jurisdiction to be worked on in their respective areas.
Tribute to Pope Francis: Reflection by Cristóbal Emilfork, S.J.
To honor the memory and legacy of Pope Francis, we present a piece by Cristóbal Emilfork, S.J. (CHL) on his impact on the promotion of climate justice. Through his words and example, and primarily through the encyclical Laudato Si’, the Pope inspired the Society of Jesus, the Church, and many other organizations to act for the care of creation. The Society of Jesus remains committed to these fundamental principles, carrying out concrete actions to defend all forms of life on the planet in the name of faith.
A call to collective action
The Secretariat for Social Justice and Ecology reaffirms its commitment to care for the earth and climate justice, inviting all members of the Society of Jesus and their allies to deepen their efforts and join the common mission of protecting our Common Home. The fourth UAP continues to be a source of guidance and inspiration. With these resources, we hope to continue promoting, together with many other organizations, the ecological transformation the world needs.
All materials are available in Spanish, English, and French; please change the language in your browser to access them.
To learn more about these resources and follow the Society of Jesus’ ongoing commitment to climate justice, we invite you to stay connected with our Ecojesuit platforms.
Is it OK to forward the newsletter to my sister, who worked nearly 40 years at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth, Wales and is still active as a town councillor and with youth groups, and a niece who has been active in London in the campaign against Big Oil? There is a family WhatsApp group and they have mobilised many of the family
Thank you for this information.
I am truly blessed in knowing, that our Lord’s work is in the world today. I am retired the past few years after working in pollution control the most of my vocational years.
Pope Francis, has inspired us through Laudate si, to reach out to those who are affected by climate change.
Wonderful thank you for sharing this