Supporters of Jesuit Missions came together at a special Mass last week to celebrate the Jubilee year and the impact of their donations.
Those who had joined the Companion in Hope campaign – a year-long initiative highlighting the projects Jesuit Missions works with in the Global South – gathered at Farm Street Church in central London for the service, followed by a reception at the London Jesuit Centre.
Here Jesuit Missions’ Director Paul Chitnis gave a brief address outlining the work of the Jesuits in some of the world’s most forgotten places, including South Sudan – which he visited in late 2024, and Guyana.
“Without you, our supporters, Jesuit Missions is, if not empty, a significantly diminished Jesuit work,” he said. “Because of you we have supported tens of thousands of people in 12 countries across the world this year.”
Paul spoke of those based in refugee camps in South Sudan, whose situation has been impacted by cuts to foreign aid, and of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Guyana who are fighting to keep their language and culture alive.
“The presence of the Jesuits in [these] places is itself a sign that, even if the international community forgets, we will not,” he added.
He referenced the teachings and actions of some of the earliest Jesuit missionaries, such as St Francis Xavier, British Jesuits who have been active in the Global South for decades, and Pope Francis – the first Jesuit pontiff – who, in On the Joy of the Gospel, notes “all of us are asked to obey [the Lord’s] call to go forth from our own comfort zone in order to reach all the peripheries in need of the light of the gospel.”
Almost 270 people have donated towards the campaign thus far, raising more than £24,000, with around £7,500 in regular gifts.
Alicia Coker, Fundraising Manager at Jesuit Missions, said: “As we mark the close of the Jubilee Year of Hope, we want to thank each of you who journeyed with us through our Companion in Hope campaign. Together, you have made a remarkable impact.
“This was a moment to gather, remember deceased supporters, pray together, and celebrate the generosity and commitment of our supporter community.
“For those unable to attend, your prayer intentions were included in the bidding prayers, ensuring everyone was part of this beautiful thanksgiving.
“Your support throughout this Jubilee Year has been a true sign of hope. On behalf of Jesuit Missions, thank you for standing with us and with the communities we serve around the world.”
To find out more about how you can support Jesuit Missions’ work, click here.
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