Fr Peter Gallagher SJ, Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Britain, joined fellow provincial superiors from across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia at the Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP) in Bologna from 28 April to 4 May. Held in the peaceful surroundings of Villa San Giuseppe, the annual assembly provided a space for leaders of the Society of Jesus to reflect together on the future of Jesuit formation.

This year's gathering focused particularly on the diversity of pathways into the Society. Formation, the process by which a man becomes a Jesuit, was recognised as something deeply personal and non-linear shaped by each individual’s unique background, experiences, and calling. Rather than following a uniform track, formation is tailored to suit the needs of the person and the mission.

Each province appoints a delegate who plays a key role in this process. The British Delegate for Jesuits in Formation is Fr David Smolira SJ, a former Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Britain. The delegate helps discern when and where each stage of a Jesuit’s development should take place, ensuring it is both supportive and flexible. This personalised approach reflects the Society’s ongoing commitment to developing well-rounded men who are spiritually grounded, intellectually formed, and pastorally prepared. To learn more about the stages of Jesuit formation, visit the Vocations website.

A notable example of collaboration in formation is the European Jesuits in Formation (EJIF) programme. Since 1986, EJIF has brought together young Jesuits from across Europe for a shared experience of community, prayer, and dialogue. The aim is to build a sense of unity and mutual understanding across provinces. The next EJIF meeting is scheduled for August 2025 in Marseille, under the theme “Companions Called to Serve Together.”

Fr Peter Gallagher’s participation in the JCEP assembly highlighted Jesuits in Britain’s active involvement in shaping the future of Jesuit formation across Europe. As the Society of Jesus continues to respond to new challenges, gatherings like these ensure that formation remains relevant, responsive, and rooted in the core mission of serving others in Christ.

Photo courtesy of Jesuits in Europe