From June 24-28, Norbert Piché, National Director of the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) – Canada, took part in an international meeting in Rome with individuals from other countries where JRS operates.  The meeting aimed to contribute to the development of the new strategic plan for the next 4 years starting in 2025.

New context, new challenges

In addition to wars, human rights violations, and persecutions that force people to flee their homes, we’re adding climate change to the mix.  In the coming decades, the number of people displaced by the climate crisis will be unprecedented.  Tens of millions of people will be added to the 120 million already displaced.

The key objectives of the Rome meeting

1. Strengthen the discernment capacity of JRS leaders
2. Undertake an in-depth listening process to build consensus on the context for the coming years
3. Reach a consensus on the initial priorities of the new strategic framework

This meeting enabled us to dream together for a better world while keeping our feet firmly planted on the ground.  We know very well that the situation of displaced people will not improve in the coming years, but we also know that by following Jesus’ example, we will be able to welcome them better, serve them better, and defend them better.