The first day invited us to reflect on the changing realities of our world and to rethink the mission of JPIC today. Through Scripture passages such as Micah 6:8 and Luke 4:18, we confronted the global crisis of values, the erosion of human rights, and the weakening of civil society. What struck me most was the honest and courageous dialogue among participants. Religious men and women from different congregations shared their experiences from various continents, revealing both the suffering and the hope present in our world. Despite our diverse cultures and contexts, there was a shared desire to rediscover community, solidarity, and collective responsibility.

On the second day, the focus shifted to multilateralism, climate justice, and political economy, drawing inspiration from Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum. The discussions were intense yet constructive. We examined how global systems of power often marginalize the poor and harm creation. However, rather than discouragement, I witnessed a deep commitment among participants to seek practical and faith-based responses. The atmosphere was not one of accusation, but of shared responsibility and collaboration.

The third day, dedicated to war, injustice, and nonviolent alternatives, was particularly moving. In a world increasingly marked by armed conflict and the mentality that “might makes right,” we reflected on reconciliation and sustainable peacebuilding. The sharing of concrete peacebuilding initiatives from different religious congregations was deeply inspiring. It became clear that JPIC is not merely a concept, but a lived commitment. Listening to testimonies from those serving in conflict zones reminded me that our vocation as missionaries and religious is intimately connected to the ministry of reconciliation.

The fourth and fifth days focused on practical methodologies for accompanying social movements and organizing JPIC offices and apostolates. These sessions were concrete and highly beneficial. The exchange of best practices revealed a spirit of openness and generosity. No congregation acted in isolation; rather, there was a sincere willingness to learn from one another. I was deeply touched by the humility with which participants shared both their successes and their challenges.

What I appreciated most throughout the workshop was the genuine goodwill and fraternal collaboration among all the religious participants. Coming from different charisms and traditions, we experienced ourselves as one global family, united by the Gospel and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. The presence of our SVD confreres, together with those who joined online, strengthened our sense of belonging to a worldwide missionary community committed to justice, peace, and the integrity of creation.

This workshop was not simply a gathering of experts; it was a moment of communion, discernment, and renewed commitment. I returned from this experience with gratitude, conviction, and hope—aware that building a just and lasting peace for all creation is a shared mission that calls for unity, courage, and faith.