“Leading into the unknown” a disconcerting slogan for the third module of the JECSE formation program for Ignatian leaders. But reflecting about it, it seems like a beautiful wish that contains the essence of our mission as human beings, as educators, as educators in Jesuit schools, and finally, as leaders. And it is precisely on the meaning of our commitment that the profound adventure I experienced with my new friends made clear, in a journey lasting about a year.
From Rodízio, through Varsavia, to Malta, we engaged in three one-week modules that, through personal reflections, sharing, lessons and testimonies, led us to question how to live not only as active members of Ignatian schools but also as men and women who are “with others and for others”. The challenge is great because the complexity of our world is always deeper, interpersonal dynamics seem more difficult and young people struggle to trust others and, therefore, to trust the school. In this context of increasing secularization, formation is essential: knowing in order to be, and thus, to act.
We were introduced to various theories that serve as tools for analyzing our context (such as the Eisenhower Matrix or the Victoria Scale) or as constructive approaches (such as spiritual conversation or polarity analysis, to name just two). We put these into practice not only during the seminars but also within our own school environments. But above all, St. Ignatius’ Examen stands out a process of reviewing our actions and a prospective looking to the future that remains incredibly powerful today. These are certainly valuable “tools” that we must always carry with us, but let us not forget where we started: leaving space for the unknown, which we can also see as the pause we must take for ourselves so that we can “trust” placing ourselves in the hands of the Spirit, so that it may act in us and through us in a concrete way. Perhaps rediscovering this very need to stop, slow down, walk instead of run as in Rob Bell’s reflection is the challenge I take home with me.
This added to the atmosphere created by the staff and among the participants is one of serenity and sharing, the result is guaranteed. Each of our leaders Anne-Sophie De Decker, Brian Flannery, Lourenço Eiro SJ, Bart van Emmerik SJ and Paul Yperman was able to give different and unique aspects, making this experience an active, fruitful and stimulating formation.
The wish is to have other moments to meet again and confront each other on the challenges of every day.
Thank you!
Elena Maietich
