EUROPE

We advocate for a vision of European institutions and policies based on the idea of a European
Common Good.

In the field of European Affairs, JESC’s activities are inspired by the Jesuit mission for reconciliation on social issues and ecology. We particularly hope to encourage debates, strategies, and ways of thinking that favour the quest of a common good transcending European borders, with a particular focus on the interests of the marginalized and the protection of the environment. JESC’s European Affairs role entails facilitating discussion and reflection of European issues through means of meetings, seminars, conferences, workshops, and articles.

Along with its partners JESC seeks to nurture the vision of Europe based on the Gospel. In this mission we make use of Christian social thinking, particularly as expressed in Pope Francis’ foundational texts Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti, laying out the vision of an integral ecology. We also aim to be faithful to the orientations of the last General Congregations of the Society of Jesus, which intertwine faith and justice, promote the idea of reconciliation, and invite us to find ways to collaborate with all people of good will.

As Secretary for European Affairs, Fr Benoit Willemaers SJ coordinates JESC’s interaction with individuals and groups connected to the life and activities of the European Institutions. JESC thus works in tight partnership with the Passion for Europe group, which organizes yearly workshops on European integration in a Christian perspective. We are also involved in the preparation of the Faith and Politics workshop, that brings young people together for a time of reflection and sharing on political life, from a perspective enriched by faith. We are also partners in various networks sharing our values and concerns, such as the Initiative of Christians for Europe (IXE) or the European Sunday Alliance.

ARTICLES

European Sunday Alliance Releases Manifesto Ahead of EU Elections

March 3rd marked the annual European Day for a Work-free Sunday, and this year, the European Sunday Alliance is seizing the opportunity to unveil...

Passion for Europe workshop 2023

The 2023 edition of the “Passion for Europe” workshop took place from September 22nd to 24th, in the Spiritual Centre of La Pairelle, near...

Europe Day