Regional Coordination Meeting 2025: Building Hope and Vision Together

From 21 to 22 October 2025, representatives from the JRS network across Europe gathered in Brussels for the annual Regional Coordination Meeting (RCM) — a key moment to strengthen collaboration, renew our shared mission, and reflect on the path forward under the new Strategic Framework 2026–2029. 

Day One: Together in Mission: Igniting Our Shared Vision

The meeting opened with the welcoming Mass, celebated by Fr. Alberto Ares SJ and Fr. Stanko Perica SJ, grounding the gathering in JRS’s identity and mission. Participants then shared updates from their national offices, followed by the presentation of the new JRS Europe Strategic Framework 2026–2029, with Bianca Albu and Vincenzo Chiaiese, a roadmap for hope and reconciliation across the region. In this session, participants were invited to provide feedback and reflections on how the document can be further adapted to their national realities, ensuring that the shared vision of JRS resonates concretely within the diverse contexts of each country. 

In the afternoon, the group engaged an interactive session on the “Paths of Hospitality”, facilitated by Vincenzo Chiaiese —a reminder that “hope is the path.” The day continued with a visit to the House of European History, exploring Europe’s complex past and shared future, and a tour of the European institutions. The day closed with reflections at the Chapel for Europe and an encounter with the Jesuit European Social Centre (JESC), where participants discussed faith, social engagement, and values for Europe. 

Day Two: Building Bridges: From Global Goals to Local Action

Day two focused on global alignment and innovation. Gavin Braschi from the JRS International Office led a session on “Building Bridges: Aligning Global Goals with Regional and Country Planning.” This was followed by “Four Voices, One Mission,” a panel moderated by Mariza Koronioti, where four country directors presented innovative national initiatives showcasing creativity and solidarity in action. 

The afternoon turned toward sustainability and collaboration: Christoph Klotz led a practical workshop on fundraising in uncertain times, while Carola Jiménez facilitated a forward-looking session on shared projects and new funding opportunities. The meeting concluded with a reflective evaluation and closing session. 

Rooted in faith and driven by service, the 2025 RCM in Brussels strengthened bonds across the JRS network and reaffirmed a collective commitment to build a Europe where hospitality, reconciliation, and justice remain alive and active.