Delving into the Experience of the Vow of Poverty
The Assembly concluded its discussion on poverty with a plenary session that integrated statements arising from the territorial assemblies regarding the experience of the vow of poverty and care for those most in need. The General Government received a mandate from the 2020 Assembly to undertake a discernment on poverty within the Society. To this end, a path of in-depth study was designed at a global level, which included formation and community workshops, as well as the collection of points to be addressed in the territorial assemblies. This journey was enriched by a conference given by Fr. Aitor Jiménez, CFM, Undersecretary of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, who explained how other institutions collaborate with the needs of the universal Church and with works of charity in favor of the most needy, in accordance with number 640 of the Code of Canon Law, which speaks of collective witness and social action.
Towards a Model of Sustainability for the Society
After this point, the Assembly moved on to address the topic of sustainability, with the aim of offering recommendations for the general sustainability plan of the Society and the General Government. Sonia Baldwin, General Administrator, presented the sustainability plan, which was based on the territorial plans presented at the various territorial assemblies. The reflection focused on the principles underpinning this plan: long-term viability, shared responsibility, subsidiarity, gradualism, transparency, evangelical poverty, good management practices, preferential option for the poor, and solidarity with Regnum Christi and with the Church.
The delegates also benefited from the contribution of Fr Miguel Campos, SJ, Legal Adviser of CONFER (Spanish Conference of Religious), of the Provincial Curia of the Society of Jesus in Spain, and consultant to various religious institutes. His conference offered an ecclesial perspective on economic sustainability in Societies of Apostolic Life, helping to understand, from the Magisterium and the experience of other institutes, the legitimate and customary ways of economic support. His presentation provided valuable criteria for deep and long-term discernment.
Throughout the days dedicated to this topic, there were times for reading and personal reflection, moments of explanation and answering questions, teamwork, and plenary sessions, all of which fostered a broader understanding and a shared commitment. Group work and plenary discussions enabled participants to share elements that resonated with them, identify strengths, and highlight areas requiring greater attention.
Walking Together in the Spirit
This part of the Assembly has been marked by hope and shared responsibility. The delegates continue to move forward, confident that the Lord guides every step of this synodal process. They seek to open themselves to the Spirit through listening, spiritual conversation, and an appreciative outlook, in order to discern together the steps to be taken in the next six years.