This year marks a significant moment of reflection and commitment within the Society of Jesus. As the Society commemorates the 30th anniversary of Decree 14 of General Congregation 34 (1995); emphasizing that women’s participation is central to the integration of faith and justice; and the world remembers the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted by the UN Fourth World Conference on Women, the theme of this International Women’s Day, “Accelerating Action”, resonates deeply with the voices of women who have shaped the Society’s journey with hope and urgency.
Women in the Ignatian Tradition
For centuries, the Ignatian tradition has honoured the wisdom, faith, and strength of women. The Society especially recognizes Mary, the Mother of Jesus, whose Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) exemplifies God’s transformative grace. Women have played integral roles in education, formation, apostolic works, and leadership, offering insights rooted in deep encounters with the Gospel. Their presence has shaped the Society of Jesus, mirroring Mary’s openness and responsive love. This history invites the Society to reimagine structures and practices for a more inclusive future.
Women’s contributions within the Jesuit tradition are not supplementary; they are foundational. Whether serving as educators, administrators, spiritual companions or leaders, or in support roles, their work is vital to fostering a mission that is both transformative and deeply rooted in justice. Their stories of faith, resilience, sensitivity and service mirror the path of Mary; one of contemplation, courage, and decisive action. This history calls for recognition of the necessity of their participation in shaping the Church’s and the Society’s future.
Synodality and Women’s Voices
A truly synodal Church requires the authentic voices of women to be heard and integrated into collective discernment. In 2021, Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, established the Commission on the Role and Responsibilities of Women in the Society of Jesus to ensure that women’s voices are more deeply engaged in shaping Jesuit mission. With six lay women, one religious sister, one lay man and five Jesuits, it has worked to assess the implementation of Decree 14. One of its most significant initiatives was a global survey conducted in 2023, reaching approximately 1,400 collaborators. Following the survey’s completion, a qualitative phase was conducted, involving in-depth individual and group interviews with lay women, lay men, religious sisters, and Jesuits, as well as focus group discussions. All participants had prior experience with the Society and its programs, whether as employees or volunteers. It convened in Rome last November for analysis and spiritual conversation toward fulling our mandates, including discernment of recommendations. The final report is nearing completion and will be presented to Father General in the third quarter 2025.
Women’s Leadership in the Society of Jesus
Ignatian spirituality thrives on the dynamic interplay between contemplation and action. Women have embodied this balance, leading initiatives in education, formation, and outreach. Their contributions continue to illuminate paths of innovative and compassionate ministry. Their leadership, service and proposals are not just a call for inclusion but a catalyst for transformative mission. Women in Jesuit institutions have led efforts in theological reflection, social justice advocacy, and pastoral care. From academic institutions to grassroots community movements, their leadership demonstrates a commitment to faith and justice that is at the core of Ignatian spirituality. Their ability to nurture and guide communities has helped policies and structures that better serve the marginalized.
A Call for Discernment and Collaboration
As the Commission nears completion, we encourage continued engagement in deep reflection. The inclusion of women is not just about justice – it is about enriching the entire mission of The Society. Their voices, perspectives, and leadership are integral to discerning how best to serve today’s world. Looking ahead, the work of the Commission highlights the importance of creating systems that empower women within the Society. By acknowledging their unique experiences and the transformative power they bring to ministry, education, and social justice, the Society of Jesus moves closer to fulfilling its call to justice, reconciliation, and shared mission.
Listening to the Spirit’s Invitation and Call to Ongoing Discernment
As the Society of Jesus continues to advance its commitment to justice and reconciliation, the full participation of women remains essential to its mission. The work of the Commission reminds us that inclusion is not just about representation but about recognizing the transformative power of diverse voices in shaping a Church and society rooted in faith and justice. The call to action is clear: to listen, to discern, and to respond with courage.
Reflection
As we reflect on this call and on the role of women in the Church and the Society, the Commission invites you to turn to Scripture as a source of inspiration and guidance. May these passages help us discern how Christ is inviting each of us to participate in this shared mission, and may we all seek the wisdom to recognize Christ’s presence in our shared journey and respond with faith, humility, hope and courage.
Prayerfully invite the Lord to help you examine your thoughts, emotions, and responses regarding the role of women in the world, the Church, and particularly within the Society of Jesus using any of the following, individually and/or together:
1. The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) – Mary’s song of justice, hope, and empowerment.
2. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7) – A call to transformation and the values of God’s kingdom.
3. The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) – Recognizing Christ’s presence in our journey of discernment.
4. The Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4:1-42) – An encounter that leads to transformation and mission.
5. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) – The invitation to a life of humility, mercy, and justice.
6. The Healing of the Bent-Over Woman (Luke 13:10-17) – Jesus’ recognition and affirmation of women’s dignity.
7. The Calling of the Disciples (Matthew 4:18-22) – Leaving everything behind to follow Christ’s mission.
8. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) – The call to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations.
9. The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38) – Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan with faith and courage.
10. The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19) – A radical transformation leading to mission.
11. The Calling of the Seventy (Luke 10:1-12) – Jesus sending His followers into the world in partnership.
12. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) – A call to active love, inclusion, and justice.
By the Commission on the Role and Responsibilities of Women in the Society of Jesus.
This article is a translation of the article “Celebrating and Advancing the Role of Women in the Society of Jesus”. This article was translated with adjustments by the SJ Provindo Secretariat Team on March 19, 2025.
