The continental gathering of the Americas (from Argentina to Canada) of all Jesuit missions working with migrants and refugees took place in Guatemala from October 20 to 24. The objective was to see together where God is calling us today to continue to build a more effective and efficient response to forced migrants, in an increasingly complex context.

On the first day, we updated each other on what the different regions are facing. Anti-migrant government policies, border closures, a less welcoming public opinion towards newcomers, and a decrease in financial resources are harsh realities that we must face.

The second day was marked by our responses. What are we already doing to counter this reality? Several initiatives already exist. In Canada, we are raising awareness through our simulation exercise A Journey into Exile. In several places, Jesuit priests and lay people offer pastoral accompaniment to migrants. There are also advocacy efforts on behalf of refugees to restore a dignified welcome throughout the Americas.

The third day was devoted to the four verbs that the late Pope Francis had dedicated to migrants and refugees and to those who accompany them: accompany, protect, promote, and integrate. Each verb was assigned to a specific location. Through a collective effort of artistic creativity, we laid out our programs according to each verb. We then exchanged one of our shoes with another participant to symbolize the journey that migrants must take through each of the verbs. It was a beautiful experience of solidarity.

On the last day, we agreed on the different points we will work on as a network through our various groups (research, accompaniment, and advocacy) and regions (South America, the Caribbean, Central America, and North America).