The 2nd JESEDU-Jogja2024 Seminar, an international event following the 2nd JESEDU-Global Colloquium 2021, recently concluded in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This invitation-only seminar aimed to foster continuous discernment for Jesuit schools worldwide.

Held from June 24 to 28, 2024, at De Britto College, the seminar was organized by the Association of Jesuit Schools of Indonesia (ASJI) and the Indonesian Province of the Society of Jesus, with support from the Jesuit Conference of Asia-Pacific (JCAP) and the Secretariat for Education of the Society of Jesus. Preceding the main event, a virtual Pre-Seminar took place from April 1 to 30, 2024.

The seminar's theme, "Educating in Faith in the 21st Century," was inspired by the Universal Apostolic Preferences, specifically the 3rd UAP (Walking with the Youth) and the 1st UAP (Showing the Way to God). The objectives included clarifying the role of Catholic/Jesuit schools in today's contexts, promoting interreligious and multi-belief dialogue for justice and reconciliation, highlighting the significance of Ignatian spirituality, and addressing challenges and opportunities in secular/religious fundamentalist contexts.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Day 1: "Talking about God through Ignatian Spirituality"

The seminar opened with a video from Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, who emphasized the potential of Jesuit schools and the seminar's goal to guide faith education in multicultural and interreligious settings. Dr. Damian Zynda spoke about the transformative power of Ignatian Spirituality and the Spiritual Exercises in education, advocating for a holistic approach that fosters an encounter with God.

Day 2: "Educating for Interreligious Dialogue: The Indonesian Experience"

Dr. Fatimah Husein, a devout Muslim, addressed the importance of interreligious dialogue, highlighting that it does not weaken religious commitment but deepens it. She shared insights on Indonesia's predominantly Muslim context, followed by a productive exchange with participants. Father Martin Waweru, SJ, Director of Loyola High School in Dar es Salaam, also shared his experiences, garnering admiration from attendees.

Day 3: "Spiritual Pilgrimage"

Participants embarked on a spiritual pilgrimage to three significant religious sites in Yogyakarta: Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia; the 16th-century Kotagede Mosque; and the Sacred Heart of Jesus Ganjuran Church. The pilgrimage concluded with a Mass at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Ganjuran Church, presided over by Father Agustinus Sugiyo Pitoyo.

Day 4: "Forming a Resilient Faith"

Dr. Paul Sharkey discussed the theme of "Forming a Resilient Faith," emphasizing the need to reconsider faith education in today's secular context. He urged participants to view secularization not as an adversary but as a context for faith, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to faith formation programs.

Day 5: "Faith Education as Catholic Schools in the Ignatian Tradition Today"

Father Daniel Huang, SJ, explored evangelization in multireligious and secular contexts, underscoring the importance of Ignatian relationship-building and active listening. Inspired by Pope Francis, he highlighted biblical models of evangelization to redefine religious education as a meaningful personal and communal experience.

Reflections and Future Plans

In the afternoon, participants engaged in regional group discussions, sharing reflections and planning next steps for faith education in the 21st century. Father José Mesa, SJ, led the final plenary session, presenting a draft of the final declaration, set to be published soon. He expressed gratitude to all participants and organizers and announced that the next Global Jesuit Schools Network gathering, the 2nd JESEDU Congress, will be held in Montreal, Canada, in 2027.

The seminar witnessed active participation both in-person and online, with notable contributions from Father Augustin Kalubi, SJ, and Mr. Salomon Kitoko, a teacher at Sadisana College in Kikwit.

Africa and Madagascar representatives included Mrs. Marguerite Ntana (Alfajiri College/ACE), Brother Osaretin Jonah, SJ (ANW), Father Martin Waweru, SJ (AOR), Mrs. Sharon Oduor (JCAM), Mrs. Josiane (MDG), and Father Joe Arimoso, SJ (SAP).

Gabriel Losambe, a member of ACE, worked with the JESEDU-JOGJA2024 Secretariat team, ensuring the event's success. The seminar concluded with participants expressing hope that the insights gained will enrich their respective colleges.

For more information and to access seminar content, visit the Educate Magis website.